What to bring on safari?

What to take on your African adventure

Going on holiday is always something to look forward to but packing can be a slightly daunting task.We have compiled this in a checklist to make sure your time with us is nothing short of fantastic:

Packing List
1. A hat, sunglasses, high strength sunscreen, moisturizer, lip salve, strong insect repellent, antihistamine cream and tablets should always be carried.

2. Clothes – all properties have a daily laundry service so do not bring too many. Here is a good guide: 3 sets bush coloured safari outfits (long/shorts/shirts) i.e. green/brown/dark khaki (not white,cream, or bright colours – especially for walking). 2 sets casual evening clothes (long trousers & shirts and socks to reduce insect bites). 1 light weight sweater. Warm jacket in winter (June/July/early Aug).
Light rain gear for the wet months (November – April). Note: Out of respect for local culture, undergarments will not be washed even where laundry is available

3. A good pair of covered shoes for walking – should you be on a walking safari; we highly recommend walking boots that support the ankle. Water resistant walking shoes are also handy during the wet season. Open shoes or sandal type shoes for warmer days.

4. A few camps do have pools so bring a costume with you.

5. Binoculars – one pair per person is a must.

6. Torch.

7. Glasses – if you wear prescription glasses bring a spare pair. If you wear contact lenses bring a pair of glasses as well since dust can be a problem.

Luggage
You should always travel with soft bags not hard suitcases (not only for the smaller aircraft but also to fit into vehicles). DO NOT exceed the limit of 15 kg for hold luggage and 5kg for hand luggage. In the recent years we have had more and more guests arriving without their luggage. Unfortunately, with new security at airports hand luggage is being restricted but where possible we recommend that you travel with anything essential (medication, space glasses), and if possible, a change of clothes.

Some handy tips for Packing
Travel bags: soft bags are preferable – duffel bag, hiking pack or sports bag – as they are more ideal for the air transfers and safari vehicles. Hard suitcases can often be difficult to fit into the safari vehicles and some light aircrafts will not actually take them onboard. A smaller bag to put your important items such as travel documents, money, camera, medication is highly recommended and suggest you always keep it on you. We recommend you keep luxury items to the bare minimum – expensive jewellery, bulky toiletries, make up. Some camps and lodges have hair dryers so do check if you need to carry your own. Separating your money into different pockets and carry-on items is also worth doing in case something happens to one of these items.

Community Support Supplies
Should you have extra space in your luggage, please use it to provide supplies to communities you visit. You can make a big impact on the lives of children in Malawi. Anything from books and stationery to clothes and toys. Cash donations are also accepted. You are welcome to contact us for updated ‘wish lists’ for the projects we support.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us should you need any further clarification.