Safari Clothing

African Safari Clothing

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This safari clothing page was created to help educate first time safari goers prepare their packing list. African Safari planning is no joke and if you're not prepared then that is going to take away the enjoyment from the entire trip.

I will constantly be updating this page to help people prepare for their African Safari Adventure.

Safari Clothing: It is All About the Color


The color of your clothes is a very important factor when on a safari jaunt. Animals are attracted to bright colors. You would not want to be the object of an Orangutan’s affection by wearing red. Granting that most mammals are dichromats (can see two out of the three primary colors), wearing bright colors like yellow, orange, neon green, fuchsia, red and violet would be in direct contrast to the colors of natural environment. Thus, wearing fuchsia pink amidst the neutrals of your tour group marks you!
Worst Safari Outfit Colors
Stop thinking camouflage clothes. You could get arrested wearing such clothes unless you are in the military. Focus on clothes in the line with neutrals, khakis and shades of brown.
Do not wear anything blue. There is basically nothing wrong with blue for if truth be told, blue is a great color complement with khaki and other neutral colors. However the tsetse flies might find you irresistible. These little insects can deliver painful stings but that is the least of your problem as a single sting could inevitable transmit a disease called “sleeping sickness”. There is nothing to worry though because the disease is curable.  Don’t wear black too. For some reason, tsetse flies like blue and black.
If you are fond of wearing white, don’t wear one when on a safari. The white will stand against the muted greens and browns of African terrain marking you as a most likely target. You might ask what’s the deal with bright colors whereas native Africans even paint themselves with bright color pigments. The big difference is the natives are trying to make themselves conspicuous so that predators will see them and stay away from their herd. You are not about to guard and protect a herd of cattle and shoo away predators so better wear mute colors.
What to Wear when on a Safari
Dressing for a safari should be plain and simple. Choose no frills clothing. There are a lot of retailers who have a selection of safari outfits that you can choose from.  The clothes should be of light materials and of neutral colors.
The mornings are quite nippy so with the evenings. Pack some sweaters, parka or jacket on top of your short and long sleeved shirts. If your trip includes mountain trekking, bring your hiking boots aside from your walking shoes. Bring lightweight shorts and pants. Look for zip-pants that are convertible to short or pants as they are more practical.  Don’t forget your safari hat - the one that has a wide brim to protect yourself from the hot sun
Going on a safari is not like going on a regular vacation. For one, there are no shops to buy emergency extra shirt or shorts if you forget to bring one. You have to make a checklist of the things you need to bring.
Here is a list of essentials that you could compare to your what to bring on a safari checklist.
 
•    4 shirts or T-shirt
•    3 pairs of shorts
•    a pair of casual trousers
•    1 light cotton dress (for the ladies)
•    2 sweaters for cool nights
•    1 wind breaker or waterproof jacket
•    1 warm jacket
•    Underwear and socks
•    1 pair of walking/running shoes
•    Hat and sunglasses
•    Lip-balm and sunblock
•    Insect repellant
•    First aid kit
•    Grooming kit
•    Wet tissues and lotions
•    Plastic bag for dirty clothes
•    Swimsuit and towel

 
Do you have the necessary items in your list?  Don’t forget to pack your medications if you have any.