Packing for your Hunting Trip
During March, April, September, and October, South Africa enjoys warm to hot weather, with temperatures ranging from 65°F to 85°F. However, the winter months of May through August can bring cold nights, often dropping below freezing, while midday temperatures typically climb to the mid-60s or 70s.
When packing for a safari, use this as a general guide. Daily laundry services are provided, except on arrival/departure days and during camp transfers. Pack light, focusing on comfortable and essential clothing and equipment. Remember to leave space in your luggage for the unique African souvenirs you’re likely to collect along the way.
Recommended Clothing:
- A pair of well-worn walking boots
- Comfortable shoes for camp
- Four pairs of quality socks
- Four sets of underwear
- Three pairs of long hunting pants in dark khaki, olive green, or camo
- Two pairs of short hunting pants for early hunts (Mar-Apr, Sept-Oct)
- Four hunting shirts in dark khaki, olive green, or camo
- One hunting jacket in a suitable color
- A warm sweater or jumper
- Casual evening wear
- A pair of gloves
- A raincoat or waterproof jacket
- A cap or hat
Final Pre-Departure Checklist:
- Passport (Valid for at least six months with enough blank pages.)
- Airline tickets
- Rifle import permit and related documents (If bringing your own rifle.)
Additional Gear (Not all mandatory):
- Binoculars
- Personal shooting sticks (Optional, as your Professional Hunter will have a set.)
- Camera and a USB flash drive or SD card for photo sharing
- Lens cleaning cloth for camera/binoculars
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Pocket/hunting knife
- Sunglasses, sunblock SPF 50, and lip balm
- Small backpack for daily hunting essentials (e.g. Camera, Extra Ammo)
- Rifle with sufficient ammunition (Unless Renting)
- International plug adapter for South Africa (220V)
- Insect repellent, preferably with DEET
- Extra prescription glasses or contact lenses
- Personal medical supplies (First aid available in camp and hunting vehicles.)
- Spare batteries/ charger
- Rifle cleaning kit (Unless Hiring)
- Prescription medication
- Toiletries
- Wet wipes for comfort
- Rifle soft case
- Taxidermy tags and shipping instructions, if using a personal taxidermist
- Any required CITES permits