52 Tips for Your First Safari

I recently returned from a spectacular safari in Botswana. On my first African safari 10 years ago I visited Botswana, and this is where my love affair with Africa began. This recent trip had all of those first-time emotions bubble back up, which you will see on the final tip. As a seasoned safari goer, I have found that many of the tips below have become second nature to me and are not top of mind to share when I consult with clients on their first safari.

I was traveling with safari novices and posed the question, "What are some things you wish you had known?" on our final game drive. Following are the responses. They are in order of sharing (and possibly immediate concern) which I find helpful and a bit humorous coming from a group of women, actively on a safari game drive.

1. Bring cash outside of planned gratuities.
2. Be ok with peeing in the bush.
3. Practice bladder control prior to your trip.
4. Practice squatting before your trip to prevent splashing.
5. Bring hydration tablets or liquid IV.
6. Merino wool shirts are excellent.
7. Pack strong sports bras.
8. Grab a Kakoi and wet it to keep cool on hot days.
9. Be prepared for insects everywhere.
10. Pack a hat with a strap so it doesn't fly away.
11. Pack a small clock for your room (or use your mobile).
12. High quality binoculars are a must.
13. If your flights require 30+ hours of travel with connections, stay in Europe for a few nights to break up travel time and acclimate to time change.
14. Bring a small pharmacy of meds - cold, stomach, bites allergies, pain.
15. Don't rely on there being USB ports in the rooms. Bring an adaptor.
16. Bring some local treats to share with the lodge staff.
17. Pack cards and envelopes for gratuities.
18. Bring an extra bag to pack gifts to bring home.
19. Pack a bathing suit.
20. Do not expect full relaxation.
21. Planning 3 - 4 nights at each lodge is best.
22. Do a night safari if offered.
23. Game drives can be bumpy and long. The back row provides an African massage.
24. If you have back issues considering terrain is wise.
25. The cost and value of a safari needs to be considered. This is not a trip to seek the lowest cost.
26. 24/7 support medical is a valuable benefit to look for with suppliers and travel insurance.
27. Location, amenities, service, premium alcohol, food quality, top guides all effect the cost of safari.
28. Be prepared to get up very early and go to bed early.
29. Be mindful of your bowel movement schedule with long game drives and coffee consumption.
30. Safari is great option for women traveling together.
31. Soft sided luggage is a must.
32. Lodges provide laundry service so you can pack light.
33. You only need 2 pairs of shoes - sandals and walking/hiking sneakers.
34. Athletic dress or shorts are good for the summer months. It can get VERY hot.
35. Pack a lot less than you think you need.
36. Consider renting a high-quality camera if you do not have one.
37. Borrow safari clothes if you know someone that has been.
38. Pack plenty of sunscreen.
39. Face wipes and body wipes are helpful.
40. Shoe bags will keep the dirt and dung you may pick up off the rest of your items in your luggage.
41. There may not be any aircon or heat (unless you are in South Africa). Dress appropriately.
42. Have realistic expectations on seeing wildlife. The migration patterns and daily activity vary seasonally.
43. Rates can vary significantly from high season to low season. There is a reason for this.
44. Wi-Fi and connectivity are not guaranteed. We had no mobile service the entire time in Botswana.
45. Accessibility - getting in and out of the game drive vehicles involves some climbing. There is no ADA in Africa.
46. SPF and insect repellant clothing is helpful.
47. Travel Insurance is a must. Check coverages for evacuation.
48. Let your travel advisor or transfer driver know if you will not be checking bags so that your transfer arrives at the airport at the correct time to pick you up.
49. Many countries ban plastic. Know this before so you do not have single use plastic in your luggage.
50. Gin and Tonic tastes best with an African sunset.
51. Plan your safari with a travel advisor that has expertise and experience planning safaris. This is not a trip you can just wing it successfully or use a generalist advisor.
52. African safaris - being out in the bush, the wildlife, the people you will meet - has a tendency to pull out emotions you never knew existed. Embrace it and don't be surprised if you start planning your return before you even leave.