Prepare for the bush

Safari Packing List

What to bring

Pack light, pack right

Most guests travel by vehicle between camps and have a reasonable amount of flexibility with luggage. If your itinerary includes bush plane transfers, weight limits are strict — typically 10–12 kg per person in a soft-sided duffel bag. Either way, laundry is done at camp, and our staff can help source most forgotten essentials in Maun before you head out.

Clothing & Footwear

Neutral tones only — avoid white, bright colours, and camouflage patterns.

Lightweight shirts (khaki, olive, tan, or grey)3–4; quick-dry fabrics are ideal
Long-sleeved shirt or light UV layerEssential for sun and insects on game drives
Fleece or warm jacketMornings and evenings can be cold, especially June–August
Long trousers or safari pants2 pairs; zip-off convertible style works well
Shorts1–2 pairs for warmer afternoons
Lightweight socks4–5 pairs; wool blend holds up well
Closed-toe walking shoes or light hiking boots
Sandals or comfortable camp shoes
SwimwearIf your itinerary includes lodge nights

Headwear & Sun Protection

Botswana's sun is intense — protection is not optional.

Wide-brimmed sun hatWith a chin strap if possible — wind picks up in open vehicles
Sunglasses with UV protection
High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Lip balm with SPF
Buff or neck gaiterUseful on dusty game drives or cold mornings

Camera & Electronics

Solar charging is available at every camp — but bring a backup power bank too.

Camera with zoom or telephoto lens200mm+ is recommended for wildlife at distance
Spare camera batteries (at least 2)Cold mornings drain batteries faster
Extra memory cards
Charging cables for all devices
Universal travel adaptor
Power bank / portable charger
Binoculars8x42 or 10x42; you'll use them every day
SmartphoneDownload offline maps and field guides before departure

Health & Protection

Consult your doctor or travel clinic 6–8 weeks before departure.

Prescription malaria prophylacticsBotswana is a malaria area; start medication as directed
DEET insect repellent (30–50%)
All personal prescription medicationsBring copies of prescriptions; pack in carry-on
Basic first aid kit
Antihistamines
Rehydration sachets
Wet wipes and hand sanitiser
Personal toiletries and any specialist skincare

Travel Documents

Check all requirements for your nationality well ahead of travel.

Valid passportMinimum 6 months' validity beyond travel dates; must have blank visa pages
Printed booking confirmation and itinerary
Travel insurance certificate and emergency number
Zambia or Zimbabwe visaRequired if your itinerary includes a Victoria Falls extension
Yellow fever vaccination cardRequired if arriving from a yellow-fever endemic country
Emergency contacts listSave a copy offline and leave one with someone at home

Luggage

If your itinerary includes bush plane transfers between camps, luggage is strictly limited — plan ahead. Most guests travel by vehicle and have more flexibility, but a soft-sided bag is always the right call.

Soft-sided duffel bag as your main bagRequired if using bush planes (max 10–12 kg); recommended regardless — hard-sided suitcases are awkward in safari vehicles
Small day pack or camera bag for game drives
Dry bag or waterproof linerHelpful during mokoro excursions or the green season
Small padlock for your tent or valuables

Good to know

A few last tips

Laundry is done at camp — you need far less clothing than you think.
Our staff can source most forgotten items in Maun before you head into the bush.
We will send a personalised packing list PDF with your booking confirmation.

Ask us anything →Read the FAQ →

Safari vehicle silhouetted against a blazing Botswana sunset

Questions before you pack?

We're happy to walk you through exactly what to bring for your specific itinerary and time of year. Just ask.