Safari moods – What to Wear on a SAFARI in East Africa?

The Safari Moods and What to wear on a Safari in East Africa, that’s Uganda, Rwanda, Magical Kenya & Tanzania, which boast of Numerous adventure experiences ranging from the most popular wildebeest Migration in Kenya & Tanzania, Gorilla trekking in Uganda & Rwanda, Climbing Tanzania’s free-standing Kilimanjaro Mountain.

Before you travel to any of the above-mentioned destinations, you need to know what to wear on Safari in East Africa.

All lists provided should be treated as a guide – the meaning list may vary from person to person.

WIDE BRIMMED SAFARI HAT

A Safari hat comes in handy for blocking out the Tropical Sun, especially if you are going on a Walking Safari or a Horseback Riding Safari – Lake Mburo. You will always find it useful on gorilla, chimpanzee treks, forest walks, boating on… Lake Kivu, Lake Victoria, Lake Bunyonyi or Lake Mutanda. A wide-brimmed safari hat will also be most useful while on a fishing Safari in Uganda in Murchison Falls along the Nile.

Wide-brimmed hats can be bought in your home country, and you can wear them on the trip here, or you can buy one upon arrival.

COMFORTABLE CLOTHING

The keyword to your safari clothing is comfort, and one could add protection.  Though you will be in a tropical climate in both Uganda and Rwanda, the right clothing will protect you.

Loose and comfortable clothing on a safari, on a gorilla trek or hike is important.

Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers such as jeans are best for you to protect against scratches, insect bites and even nettles.

Shorts are great around the lodge in the daytime…but on a nature walk or hike, loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and long trousers are best for you, and that includes dinner at night.

Neutral colours are the best while on safari.

Clothing

1. Colours: Stick to neutral, natural tones like khaki, beige, olive green, and light brown.
2. Avoid: Bright colours, as well as dark blue and black, which attract tsetse flies. Avoid camouflage patterns as they can be mistaken for military uniforms.
3. For daytime: Pack light, breathable, loose-fitting tops and shorts, or trousers, depending on the activity.
4. For chilly mornings/evenings: Wear layers. A long-sleeved shirt and long pants are crucial for protection from the cold, sun, and insects. A light jacket or fleece is also recommended.
5. For walking safaris, Long sleeves and long pants are a must to protect against insects and thorns.

Accessories and other items

• Footwear: Comfortable shoes are key. Hiking boots that cover your ankles are ideal for walking, while comfortable sneakers can also work.
• Other essentials: Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection and insect repellent.
• Smart casual: Some lodges and camps may have a more formal dinner setting, so a single set of smart casual wear might be useful for that occasion, particularly if you are spending time in cities like Nairobi or Mombasa.