Wondering what to pack when visiting South Africa? Here are a few tips on what to bring when making your way to the southern-most region of Africa.
South Africa is generally a warm and sunny country, becoming hot in certain areas in summer (November to March). The evenings can cool down quite quickly, even in summer months. We therefore suggest lightweight cotton clothing with extra layers for the chill. And don’t forget to throw in your sunblock, sunglasses and a hat! In winter (May to August) it can get rather nippy in many parts so pack a jacket and a sweater.
South Africa is a relaxed destination with casual wear acceptable in most venues, but you may want to bring something smarter for a fine dining evening out. Also remember your comfortable shoes for those lengthy walks around the city and if your itinerary includes a visit to one of South Africa’s renowned game parks in a malaria-risk area, don’t forget your mosquito protection and to find out if you will need a malaria prophylaxis.
And then, one of the most important items (other than your travel documents, of course) — your camera! Be sure to bring enough memory cards and an extra battery in order to capture those special African moments.
Here is our detailed packing list:
Important documents
- Passport
- Travel documents
- International driver’s permit and driver’s license (if intending to drive)
- ATM cards, credit cards (advise your bank of your travel plans prior to travel)
Sundry
- Electronic devices i.e. camera, cell phone, tablet and portable music player – remember a charger
- Spare spectacles and/or a copy of your prescription
- If you wear contact lenses, bring a pair spectacles with, as dusty environments may irritate your eyes
- International plugs
- Binoculars (on safari)
Medication
- Bring enough prescribed medication, as well as a spare prescription. It is a good idea to get a letter from your doctor confirming your medication
Toiletries
- Sunscreen is important during the summer and winter months. Choose a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor
- Insect repellent – especially when visiting a malaria risk area
Clothing and accessories
- Comfortable, casual clothing, and a few smarter items for more elegant evenings out or when embarking on a luxury train journey
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunglasses
- Swimwear (winter and summer months as your hotel may have a heated swimming pool)
- If your itinerary includes a malaria risk area, take long sleeves and long trousers for the evenings
Summer months (November to March):
- Cool and comfortable lightweight clothing
- Long trousers, a long sleeve and a jacket for the evenings
- Rain jacket
- Sun hat
- Beach wear
- Flip flops
Winter months (May to August):
- Warm clothes – including a fleece and a warm jacket
- Rain jacket
- Warm hat/beanie
On safari:
- Sun hat
- Warm hat/beanie
- A bandanna or a cotton scarf
- Neutral color clothing in light fabrics – avoid bright colors and the color red. When going into an area where Tsetse flies are present, avoid the color blue
- A pair of long sleeved shirts and a pair of long trousers for the colder evenings. These will help with keeping mosquitoes and other insects at bay
- Warm jacket
- Windbreaker
- Walking shoes, especially in case of a walking safari
Please note that small aircrafts on inter-camp flights have firm luggage restrictions with strict weight limitations (generally soft bags 15kG maximum, only).
*This packing list serves as a guideline only
