What to Pack (and How to Act) on Safari in South Africa

A Barefoot Safaris Guide to Ethical, Prepared, and Meaningful Travel

There’s something timeless about going on safari — waking to the call of a fish eagle, sipping coffee as the sun rises over the bush, then setting off in search of lion tracks and dust trails. But this kind of journey isn’t just about what you see; it’s also about how you show up — prepared, open-hearted, and respectful of the land, wildlife, and cultures that make the safari experience so powerful.

At Barefoot Safaris, we don’t believe in just “checking off” animals. We believe in walking softly, packing thoughtfully, and honoring the human and ecological communities that share the landscape. Whether it’s your first time on safari or your fifth, here’s your guide to what to pack, how to behave, and how to truly belong in the wild.

🎒 What to Pack: Essentials for a South African Safari

1. Neutral-Colored Clothing

Pack lightweight, breathable clothes in earthy tones — think khaki, olive, brown, or beige. Bright colors can distract wildlife and may stand out too much on bush walks. Avoid dark blue or black, which can attract tsetse flies in some regions.

• 2–3 long-sleeved shirts (sun protection and warmth)

• 2–3 pairs of lightweight trousers

• T-shirts or vests for layering

• A warm fleece or jacket (mornings and evenings can be cold)

• A wide-brimmed hat or cap

• A lightweight scarf or buff (dust, sun, and wind protection)

2. Footwear

• Sturdy walking shoes or boots for bush walks

• Comfortable sandals or trainers for camp

• Keep it practical — safari isn’t the place for high fashion or white sneakers.

3. Essentials for Comfort and Safety

• Binoculars (essential for birding and spotting animals)

• Sunscreen, insect repellent, and lip balm with SPF

• Reusable water bottle (many lodges will refill for you)

• Personal medications, including anti-malarials if required

• Small daypack for game drives

4. Optional but Useful

• Camera with extra batteries and memory cards

• Lightweight gloves and beanie (for chilly dawn drives)

• Travel adapter for South Africa (Type M or universal)

• Journal or notebook to record sightings and reflections

Pro Tip: Keep it light and layered. South Africa’s safari regions — like Kruger or Madikwe — can have cool mornings and hot afternoons, especially from May to September (dry season).

🚙 Game Drive Etiquette: How to Behave in the Bush

Being on a game drive is not just about excitement — it’s about observation, patience, and presence. Here’s how to respect the wildlife, your guide, and fellow travelers:

1. Be Quiet and Alert

Wildlife is sensitive to sound. Keep your voice low, turn off notification sounds on your phone, and avoid loud movements that could startle animals.

2. Respect Your Guide’s Instructions

Your guide is there for your safety and to protect the animals. Whether it’s staying seated, staying quiet, or giving an animal space — always follow their lead.

3. Don’t Stand or Dangle Limbs from the Vehicle

Safari vehicles are designed to blend into the landscape. Standing or moving suddenly can break that illusion and attract unwanted attention from animals.

4. No Littering or Feeding Wildlife

This one’s obvious, but essential. Leave no trace. Feeding animals disrupts their natural behavior and can endanger both them and future visitors.

5. Keep a Respectful Distance

Don’t pressure your guide to “get closer” — the best wildlife encounters happen when animals don’t feel threatened. If you’re lucky, they’ll come to you.

6. Be Mindful of Photography

No flash. No shouting to get an animal’s attention. And always be present — sometimes it’s better to watch the leopard walk by than miss it while fumbling with a camera.

🤝 Respecting the Local Tribes and Cultures

A safari is not just about animals — it’s about people. South Africa is home to a rich tapestry of cultures, including Zulu, Tswana, Venda, and Shangaan communities that often live near protected areas.

1. Travel with Curiosity, Not Assumptions

Approach cultural interactions with humility. Ask questions. Listen more than you speak. Avoid viewing traditional communities as “exotic” attractions — they are modern people with deep roots, not just something to photograph.

2. Ask Before Taking Photos

Always ask for permission before photographing people, homes, or sacred sites. Better yet — engage in conversation first. Many locals are happy to share their stories when approached with respect.

3. Support Ethical Tourism

Choose lodges and safari operators (like Barefoot Safaris) that employ and empower local communities, give back through education or conservation, and operate with fair labor practices.

4. Learn a Few Words

A simple greeting in Zulu or Tsonga goes a long way. It shows respect, effort, and a desire to connect on a human level.

5. Don’t Expect Cultural Performances

If you’re invited to experience music, dancing, or storytelling — enjoy it fully. But don’t demand or expect it as entertainment. True cultural exchange is about mutual respect, not consumption.

🌍 Safari is a Privilege — Walk Lightly

A safari is more than a holiday — it’s a rare chance to step into wild spaces and witness nature as it has existed for thousands of years. But that experience is only possible because of the people who steward the land, the communities who live nearby, and the animals who allow us into their world.

At Barefoot Safaris, we believe in travel with intention — not just ticking boxes or taking photos, but understanding our role in the bigger picture.

Pack lightly. Tread respectfully. Leave deeper than you arrived.

Barefoot Safaris | Walk the wild. Listen deeply. Leave only footprints.