What to wear on safari in Kenya and Tanzania
The colours, layers and footwear that work in the bush — and the common mistakes that catch first-timers out.
Safari Packing List · what to wear on safari
You can pack for safari without buying a new wardrobe. Safari clothing solves practical problems—dust, sun, insects, and temperature swings—rather than just aesthetics. A dawn drive might require a fleece, while the afternoon calls for a t-shirt.
Here is what experienced guides wear and what rarely earns space in a bag.
Dressing for the day
| Time of day | Typical conditions | What to wear |
|---|---|---|
| Early morning drive | Cold, often below 10°C | Fleece, long sleeves, hat |
| Midday | Warm, strong sun | Light long-sleeved shirt, sunscreen |
| Evening at camp | Mild, mosquitoes active | Long trousers, smart-casual layers |
Highlights
- Colours that hold up
- Layering through the day
- Footwear and evenings
- What not to bring
01
Colours that hold up
Neutral, earthy tones like khaki, olive, and tan blend into the bush and hide dust. Avoid bright white, which shows dirt immediately. Dark blue and black attract tsetse flies, while camouflage patterns are restricted to military use in many regions.
02
Layering through the day
A single game drive spans significant temperature changes from dawn to midday. Pack layers to adjust comfortably as the sun rises.
- A warm fleece for cold starts
- Long-sleeved shirts for sun protection
- Lightweight trousers for versatility
- A wide-brimmed hat with a chin strap
03
Footwear and evenings
Comfortable closed shoes cover most situations; hiking boots are only essential for trekking. Evenings at camp are smart-casual, where long sleeves help deter insects after dark.
04
What not to bring
Hard-shell suitcases rarely fit light-aircraft holds. Plastic bags are strictly banned in Kenya and Tanzania. A large wardrobe is unnecessary as most camps offer same-day laundry services.
Dos
- Wear neutral colours — khaki, olive, sand
- Pack layers for cold early game drives
- Stay seated and keep voices low near animals
- Follow your guide's instructions at all times
- Drink plenty of water and use sunscreen
Don'ts
- Don't wear bright colours, white or camouflage
- Don't feed or call to animals
- Don't leave the vehicle unless your guide says so
- Don't use drones — they need special permits
- Don't bring plastic bags (banned in Kenya and Tanzania)
What's usually included
- Accommodation in your chosen level
- Meals as listed in your itinerary
- Game drives with a professional guide
- Park and conservancy entry fees
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Drinking water in the vehicle
Usually not included
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides and camp staff
- Personal items and souvenirs
- Premium drinks unless all-inclusive
- Optional activities not in your itinerary
Keep exploring
Your trip price, without guesswork
Your accommodation and flights need a quote for your dates, room arrangement and availability. Compare the full journey total, not a nightly headline: meals, transport, guiding, entry fees and optional activities should be clear. Published tariffs may change; we reconfirm the applicable fees before you book.
Our editorial values
Original travel guidance by Dennis Njoroge, CEO of Perch Africa Safaris. Wildlife and weather are never guaranteed. Published fees link to their authority sources; camp and flight prices are confirmed for your own journey. You receive your full itinerary and matching proforma before payment.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I wear shorts on a game drive?
Yes, though long trousers offer better protection against sun, insects, and brush.
Do I need 'safari brand' clothing?
No—comfortable, neutral-coloured outdoor gear performs just as well.
How much laundry access will I have?
Most camps provide daily laundry, so packing for four days is usually sufficient.
