What to Pack for a Safari: A Complete Checklist

"A quintessential South African safari destination where experiences span from budget, hostel-run three-day camping trips—one reviewer remembers sharing a tiny 5x5 tent with a friend—to luxury lodges and guided bush walks. Wildlife viewing is season-dependent: the dry months (roughly May–September) make spotting animals easier as vegetation thins and wildlife concentrates around permanent water, while the wet season (October–April) brings rains, migratory birds, and numerous antelope births. Because the park lies in a malaria-risk province, travelers are advised to consult a doctor about antimalarial medication and required vaccinations well in advance. Practical trip notes from visitors and guides include packing layers for chilly mornings and nights, bringing waterproof gear for the rainy season, and preferring soft-sided luggage when intra-country flights or small aircraft are involved." - Katherine Alex Beaven Katherine Alex Beaven Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines