South Africa’s weather varies by season: March, April, September, and October are warm to hot, with temperatures between 65°F and 85°F, while winter months (May–August) bring chilly evenings, sometimes below freezing, and daytime highs in the 60s or 70s. For a safari, pack light with essential, comfortable clothing and gear, as daily laundry services are available except on arrival, departure, or camp transfer days. Remember to leave room for souvenirs!
- A pair of well-worn walking boots
- Comfortable shoes for camp
- Four pairs of quality socks
- Four sets of underwear
- Three pairs of long hunting pants in dark khaki, olive green, or camo
- Two pairs of short hunting pants for early hunts (Mar-Apr, Sept-Oct)
- Four hunting shirts in dark khaki, olive green, or camo
- One hunting jacket in a suitable color
- A warm sweater or jumper
- Casual evening wear
- A pair of gloves
- A raincoat or waterproof jacket
- A cap or hat
- Passport (valid for at least six months with enough blank pages)
- Airline tickets
- Rifle import permit and related documents (if bringing your own rifle)
- Binoculars
- Personal shooting sticks (optional, as your PH will have a set)
- Camera(s) and a USB flash drive or SD card for photo sharing
- Lens cleaning cloth for camera/binoculars
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Pocket/hunting knife
- Sunglasses, sunblock SPF 50, and lip balm
- Small backpack for daily hunting essentials (e.g., camera, extra ammo)
- Rifle with sufficient ammunition (unless renting)
- International plug adapter for South Africa (220V)
- Insect repellent, preferably with DEET
- Extra prescription glasses or contact lenses
- Personal medical supplies (first aid available in camp and hunting vehicles)
- Spare batteries/charger
- Rifle cleaning kit (unless hiring)
- Prescription medication
- Toiletries
- Wet wipes for comfort
- Rifle soft case
- Taxidermy tags and shipping instructions, if using a personal taxidermist
- Any required CITES permits