It may also come as a surprise, but not every safari experience has the same weather or season. It’d be outlandish to believe that the Namib desert has the same climate as the plains of the Masai Mara. Don’t fret; we have the perfect pants for any destination so you can remain comfortable and stylish.

In this post, we break down our favorite safari pants. We share details on fit, performance, pockets, and fabrics. We share tips like the best color choice and style if you’re after more information.

Our Top Safari Pants Picks

• Best Overall Safari Pants — KUHL Freeflex/Free Radikl Pants (Women | Men)
• Best Lightweight Safari Pant — Coalatree Trailhead Pants (Women | Men)
• Most Stylish Safari Pant — Filson Oil Finish Single Tin Pants (Women | Men)
• Best Alternative Safari Pant — prAna Summit/Vaha Pant (Women | Men)
• Best Convertible Safari Pant — Columbia Convertible Pants (Women | Men)
• Best Tough Safari Pant — Fjallraven Vidda Pro (Women | Men)

The Best Safari Pants

KUHL Freeflex/Free Radikl Pants

Kuhl’s ENDURO blend fabric in their men’s Free Radikl and women’s Freeflex Roll-Up pants is a testament to their commitment to quality and durability. We prefer the comfort of lightweight synthetic pants as most safaris occur in hot weather. These safari pants are lightweight and super comfortable.

Not only does the fabric feel soft against the skin, but it has also proven to be resistant to wear and tear after repeated use. The double-stitching and metal buttons are just a few of the high-end details that set these pants apart.

The Free Radikl pants offer the best technical performance and style, with active stretch panels, a dedicated phone pocket, and a gusseted crotch for added mobility. The Freeflex Roll-Up pants feature functional pockets and drawstrings, making them perfect for women who need practicality and comfort. Both styles come in a variety of colors to suit your taste.

However, men who prefer a slim fit may opt for the tapered option, as the regular Free Radikl cut can be a bit baggy for those with runners’ legs, like me. Whether you’re a rugged outdoorsman or a casual adventurer, Kuhl’s technical pants offer UPF 50 sun protection, six pockets, and the ultimate in year-round performance, making them the trusted choice for any outdoor excursion.

REI Co-op Trailsmith Pants

The REI Co-op Trailsmith Pants combine style, comfort, and durability for an excellent safari pant. The pants come in two different designs based on gender. The men’s pants are traditional, while the women’s are joggers. No matter the design style, both styles use a blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex fabric. This allows them to wick away moisture and move with the body for a comfortable fit.

We love the double-layer fabric reinforcement at the knees and thighs. It helps photographers who often take a knee to get a lower angle. However, the mid-weight fabric feels a little too warm in scorching weather. In hot safari destinations, we prefer lighter safari pants.

The pants have many pockets, including traditional hand and back pockets, a drop-in tool pocket at the side, and a pencil pocket at the thigh. We found all the pockets to be helpful. They also play well into the slightly loose fit of the pants, which provides comfort all day.

Western Rise Evolution Pant 2.0

For those searching for versatile and functional pants for their travels, the Western Rise Evolution 2.0 Pants are a top choice. Although not explicitly designed as safari pants, they can replace any outdoor pants in your wardrobe. The ultralight tech fabric is ideal for daily errands and travels, with its breathable, stretchable, and stain-resistant qualities.

Not only are these pants practical, but they are also stylish and comfortable. The slim fit is tapered for a neat appearance but may not suit those with thicker thighs. Despite this, the lightweight fabric falls nicely along the legs, and the excellent fit balances slim and loose.

Unfortunately, these pants are currently only available for men. The Dune color is popular for safari wear, but it may not be practical as it shows dirt quickly. Despite this, the Western Rise Evolution 2.0 Pants are our favorite travel pants for men and a must-pack item for any trip.

Fjallraven Vidda Pro

The Fjallraven Vidda Pro Trousers are our favorite adventure pants. The pants use a G-1000 Eco Fabric, a durable waxed canvas material in construction. It’s a tough material that is abrasion-resistant, but due to its excellent fit, features, and smart panel construction, the pants are super comfortable.

The G-1000 Eco fabric has sustainable cred, and the waxed feature gives the material reliable moisture resistance. We love the pant’s features like preshaped knees, gusseted crotch, and rear panel. They are pants that feel tough as nails but don’t restrict your mobility.

Despite the heavy fabric, the pants feature two ample ventilation zips on both legs, allowing you to dump heat effectively and efficiently. The pants also include many functional pockets, such as two large pockets, a knife pocket, and an axe loop. Even if you don’t need the robust features of these safari pants, they have a very cool utilitarian look.

Coalatree Trailhead Pants

We love the ultralight and uber-comfortable Coalatree Trailhead pants. The unique eco-friendly fabric blend is waterproof and breathable, providing excellent protection from the elements while keeping you cool and dry.

What we love most about the pants is the material. They use a four-way stretch and ripstop nylon fabric blend that moves with your body. It’s not only comfort that the fabric provides, as the antimicrobial properties keep the pants fresh for multiple wears without a wash.

While the drawstring ankle ties allow you to easily adjust the length of the pants to suit your needs. They also pack up super well as they fold into their pocket, which is great with the limited space allowed on bush flights.

Columbia Silver Ridge/Saturday Trail Pant

Whatever the Columbia Silver Ridge or Saturday Trail Pants lack in appearance, they make up for in practicality and value. The Silver Ridge is a zip-off pant for both sexes, and the Saturday Trail Pants are women’s hiking/travel pants. The synthetic material in both designs offers UV protection, breathability, and excellent moisture management.

We pair these two different pants together because convertible shorts don’t look nice on women. However, with similar material and a nicer fit, the Saturday Trail Pant is a great safari pant for women. Women will find far more style with safari shorts such as the prAna Elle Shorts.

Both feature large pockets, but only the men’s pants have two cargo pockets to carry necessities like bug spray, sunblock, or binoculars for your safari. Another nifty feature of the Silver Ridge is the adjustable belt that saves weight over a traditional option.

Columbia products always offer plenty of value but are far from the highest quality. It’s always apparent in their products’ details/style and longevity. These are not a great choice if you’re seeking a pair of pants to last a lifetime.

prAna Summit/Vaha Pant

I spend so much time traveling in these pants, and they’ve become one of my favorite pairs. I now have a couple of pairs of Vaha pants. The prAna Vaha Pants and Summit Pants are for yoga and climbing, but I use them for anything. For safari, they’re great for a relaxed evening around camp or the lodge and can even double as pajamas.

Hemp and recycled polyester give breathability to the pants with quick-dry and odor-fighting qualities and are a heck of an eco-friendly product. It’s a very relaxed and soft pant that feels like a regular pair of pants. The style works for almost all women, but the casual style may put some men off. We’re big fans of prAna, so we highly recommend checking out some of their products. The women’s pants are Summit pants, and the men’s are Vaha pants.

Outdoor Research Ferossi Pant

The Outdoor Research Ferossi Pants are ideal for a safari due to their comfort and performance. The pants feature the brand’s signature Ferrosi Fabric, providing lightweight durability, stretch, and overall mobility. The pants regulate temperature effectively while protecting you from the wind and light rain and drying and breathing quickly when the temperature rises.

The recent update to the Ferrosi pants has increased sustainability, with the fabric being Bluesign-approved and made with 46% recycled materials. However, the Ferrosi pants don’t come with a built-in belt, and the drawstrings along the waistband are less effective. They are the top pick for hitting the backcountry, especially given the recent expansion of the Ferrosi line to include a convertible option, a cargo model with more pockets, and the Crux Pant for climbing.

Our biggest complaint with the Ferossi Pants is the style. We find them too outdoorsy-looking to walk around more formal environments comfortably. We like safari pants to feel comfortable on a game drive and at dinner.

Filson Oil Finish Single Tin Pants

You won’t find a tougher pair of pants than the Filson Oil Finish Single Tin Cloth pants. These pants can tackle any challenge from Africa to working on the ranch or running errands around town.

The quality and finishes make the pants stand out from most. We love the heavy canvas, exceptional stitching, and brass fittings. The canvas fabric is coasted in an oil-finish wax that provides moisture repellency and protection from the elements. Despite the heavy material, the pants offer exceptional freedom of movement. Thanks to a roomy cut through the seat and thighs.

They have a big downside: a prohibitively high price tag for a pair of pants. The heavy and rugged design is also too heavy and warm for the average hot weather African safari.

Patagonia Quandary Pant

Patagonia’s Quandry Pants are a great lightweight option for safari pants. The pants are comfortable, versatile, and offer plenty of performance. They manage to hit the perfect balance between casual travel and active adventure.

We think it hits all the essential criteria for a good pair of pants. The pants have a clean style, gusseted crotch, articulated knees, and lightweight fabric with DWR and 50+ UPF sun protection. They are the perfect combination of comfort, performance, and style. Whether you’re out on a safari or need a pair of durable and versatile pants, these are a great choice.

prAna Halle/Brion II Pants

We’ve been fans of the prAna Brion/Halle Pants for years. However, prAna recently released a new version, the “II.” It was a big risk, and we love they took a step toward a more sustainable ReZion blend fabric, which is excellent. The pants also have a new button closure and a slightly different fit.

The pants have plenty of stretch in the construction, which is helpful for safari. We also love the built-in belt, which makes it easy to dial in the perfect fit. The ample pockets are always a plus. Style in pants is still good with clean lines and a wide range of colors that work well for safaris, such as mud, sepia, and dark khaki. The pants’ roll-up design still offer flexibility, especially in the women’s Halle Pants.

However, the updated ReZion fabric is less soft and comfy than the original. It’s also oddly shimmery in the sun, which can be distracting. Additionally, the standard model has a more pronounced flare at the bottom, which can lead to some annoying swishing when you walk. We hope they return to their former glory as our top pants for safari.

Lightweight Joggers

Athleisure has come to dominate fashion now, and it’s a trend I can get behind. Joggers are a terrific way to remain comfortable and still look stylish on safari. They are great for going on a game drive, but also comfortable enough to relax in your safari tent or relaxing with a book. Lululemon makes some fantastic joggers that look sharp, offer excellent performance, and feel great for travel days. In general, they make exceptional travel clothes.

However, Lululemon is pretty pricey Athleisure wear, so if you’re on a budget, these ones on Amazon look and feel great, too. I bought two pairs!

Table Of Safari Pants

Tips for Picking the Best Safari Pants

Research Your Destination

Not all of Africa is hot weather.  The weather here can vary in extremes, so we suggest a little research about the season and destination. It’s important to note the region you are going to and the time of year you travel. The two main seasons are the dry and rainy seasons.

For example, if you’re heading to Southern Africa during their dry months, April to October, be prepared for cooler mornings and evenings. However, if you’re heading to East Africa around this same time, you’ll need to be ready for much more humid and wet conditions from April to June. Read more in detail about how to plan a safari here.

So as you can see, there’s variation! There will be sharp differences in the temperatures depending on where and when you go. We therefore highly recommend that you plan your pants selection accordingly.

Color Selection

The goal of the safari is to view wildlife, which in turn means that your goal is to not spook wildlife by wearing bright pink neon pants when trying to see them. So while you’re researching the weather at your destination, take a look at a few pictures and get a feel for nature’s colors in that area, and dress to match.

Khaki, dark green, beige, and grey are popular colors to wear on safari. If you don’t have the fitting color pants, it’s not the worst thing in the world, but it may make you stand out.

Durability

A safari isn’t precisely the cushiest environment for clothes. You’ll be climbing in and out of cars, hitting the dusty trail on bumpy roads, and walking through the bush. It’s therefore essential to make sure you opt for a pair of pants that have this kind of use in mind.

We recommend aiming for pants designed for hiking or backpacking when shopping. You’ll then be sure to find some of the most rugged and long-lasting materials on the market.

Moisture and Ventilation Control

As you know by now, the weather for your safari can potentially be very hot or very wet, or both! Depending on what you’re facing, keep an eye out for pants that will perform well in those environments.

In the case of a toasty trip, pants with built-in ventilation and moisture-wicking technology will perform best. These will wick any sweat away from your body to keep you nice and dry, and at the same time, the pants themselves will dry quickly to avoid becoming sodden.

But when the weather turns wet, a water-resistant finish will help keep rain from soaking in. You’ll typically see this listed as a ‘Durable Water Repellent (DWR).’ Lightweight, quick-drying material will also be a plus in this department for any moisture that happens to sneak through.

Versatility

A safari often doesn’t allow for a wide range of clothing options. You’ll find that one pair of pants will need to last you for every aspect of your day, from early morning at camp to a day of wildlife viewing to an evening back at camp, or maybe even to dinner.

It’s, therefore, beneficial to find pants that embody the heavy-duty ruggedness of the trail but can also be just as acceptable at a casual evening event with your safari buddies.

Where to Buy Safari Pants

We have found the best place to buy safari clothes is online. Amazon has great deals and prices; if you are an Amazon Prime member, two-day shipping is free. REI and Backcountry are also great outdoor companies to find a variety of safari clothes as well.

Book A Safari in Africa

Traditionally if you wanted to book a safari, you’d have to go to a travel agent and have them book your safari for you. They made suggestions for camps and lodges then presented you with a hefty bill. Most of the industry still operates in this fashion.

However, Timbuktu is a new platform that allows you to select the lodges you’d like and see the pricing per day that way. You can choose the best itinerary for yourself. They will then contact the lodges and help you by booking your safari. Experts on staff can also provide suggestions and arrange the little details much like a travel agent.

Our Favorite Lodges in Africa

We’ve spent over a year on safari, tried out dozens of lodges, and visited nearly every park in Africa. While it’s impossible to say we’ve visited every lodge, we’ve seen a fair amount. Check out our list of favorite lodges in Africa. Have you visited any yourself?

While we are not seasoned guides, we have spent a year in the bush. We have been to all of the major parks of Southern and East Africa and put our favorite clothes to the test. We have a severe addiction to finding and testing the best garments on the market to form the best safari knowledge possible.

This article can dispel some myths about what to wear on safari and back it up with solid packing advice. For more reading, check out our Africa packing list and tips. Let’s get some expert advice on what to wear in Africa and where to buy safari clothes.

What Clothes to Pack for a Safari?

You don’t need an endless collection of safari clothes in your luggage. We’re big fans of versatility and minimalism. When you overpack for a safari, it can become a burden. You are likely traveling to the wilds of the African bush. An entire wardrobe of clothes is unnecessary. In addition, the standard form of transportation is a small Cessna bush plane or overland truck and there are weight restrictions, so a heavy suitcase of clothes will not work. Truthfully, most safari operators don’t allow you to bring hard sided suitcases if you have to take a bush flight to your destination.

We break down the clothes that help you look the part, but any safari expert will agree there is no set dress code or safari outfit. Let’s start with some safari packing lists and what to wear on safari and then progress to recommendations for safari clothes.

What Season to go on Safari?

Weather plays a significant role in what you wear. Most African climates do not have your standard four-season environment. In most of Africa, seasons vary between dry and wet seasons, especially in Eastern Africa. The dry season in East Africa is hot. However, Southern Africa’s opposite, where the dry season means cool evenings and mornings.

Then it flips. The rainy season in East Africa brings cooler weather patterns and perpetuates constant spring-like weather in Tanzania and Kenya. In contrast, the rainy season in South Africa can coincide with its hottest months. The hottest temperature in Southern Africa occurs before the first rains as humidity slowly creeps up, leading to dramatic thunderstorms.

The season impacts what you’ll wear to stay comfortable and the color of your clothing. We suggest you wear khaki, brown, and tan during the dry season. Then, it’s time to bust out the browns and greens in the rainy or green season. You dress to match the vegetation.

Where to go on safari?

The first decision in packing for a safari is where you go on safari. Africa has a vast range of landscapes, vegetation, and climates. It would help if you packed for where in Africa you’re headed; that’s pretty straightforward.

We have another post on the best destinations to go on safari, along with our favorite parks, camps, and lodges. While you’re at it, you can read up on our favorite safari animals to see while traveling. Deciding where to go on safari is tough as you have many options!

You have three primary regions for a safari divided into Southern, Central, and Eastern Africa. Southern Africa tends to be arid and sees a wide range of temperature shifts. Central Africa is typically hot and humid but can receive cool evenings. East Africa is your classic destination and is famous for its perpetual spring.

What to Wear in Southern Africa?

In Southern Africa, the climate varies across the region. Summers can be blisteringly hot, while winters are freezing in the back of a game vehicle. Many visitors arrive in the winter, thinking they’ll be in the hot bush, only to find zero-degree weather in an open car. Yikes!

The key to a comfortable safari outfit is layers. We often pack and wear layers to adjust to the wide range of temperatures you can experience on a typical day. While the morning can be freezing in arid locations like Botswana by midday, it can be hot so layers will save you.

What to Wear in Central & East Africa?

Here the weather is more temperate year-round. It is known as the “never-ending spring.” However, morning game drives can still be chilly, so convertible pants and a light jacket are great options.

Always come prepared for rain, given the time of year. We’ve been in several of the famous thunderstorms of Africa, including a flash flood in Tanzania!

Safari Shirts

The perfect safari shirt will make all the difference in being comfortable throughout the day. A synthetic shirt will give the most practicality, while cotton or linen shirts have a more timeless look.

Organic textiles like cotton, wool, or hemp can provide an excellent base for warmth on a cold morning or a fantastic evening. Synthetic advantages mostly relate to quick-drying, stain resistance, and keeping cool. We recommend long sleeve shirts as it provides UV and bug protection.

Below is a collection of some of the best safari shirts we’ve found on the market. It is a guide about what to look for; the best fit for you may not be on this list. We’d also suggest you check out our post on safari shirts.

Columbia Tamiami II

MSRP: $50 | Material: Ripstop Polyester

The Columbia Tamiami II Shirt is a great safari shirt with various features for a comfortable outdoor experience. With its blend of Omni-Wick moisture management and antimicrobial treatment, this shirt is perfect for hot and humid climates, actively breathing and wicking away moisture for fast evaporation. Although, the material is heavier and feels more crinkly than a typical shirt. Its heavier weight gives the Tamiami II superior durability.

While this shirt’s loose cut and outdoor style may not appeal to everyone, its practical features make it an excellent option for those seeking an affordable, well-designed safari shirt. It’s not the most stylish shirt in the world, but for around $50, it’s an excellent value.

Patagonia Long Sleeve Sun Stretch Shirt

MSRP – $119 | Material – Recycled Nylon/Polyester

We love the Patagonia Long Sleeve Sun Stretch Shirt as it’s practical and comfortable. A large part of this is the fabric that blends recycled nylon and polyester. The result is a safari shirt that is quick-drying and lightweight. That lightweight fabric is ideal for Africa’s hot and humid conditions. In addition, the material has enough stretch to not limit mobility, despite its button-down style.

In addition to its technical features, the Patagonia Long Sleeve Sun Stretch Shirt also boasts stylish western-inspired drop-in pockets, making it ideal for carrying essentials. The shirt also features collar snaps to keep the collar from flapping in windy conditions and a hidden lens cleaner to keep optics clear. Our only complaint about the shirt is the high price tag.

REI Co-op Sahara

MSRP – $59 | Material – Nylon/Spandex

The REI Co-op Sahara Long Shirt is an excellent choice for a safari shirt. It offers a timeless, versatile look for travel, safari, or hiking. We love that REI delivers a comfortable midweight shirt with fantastic value. Along with reliable performance, the shirt comes in a range of pattern and color options suitable for the bush.

Features include two front breast pockets, roll-up tabs for the sleeves, a sunglass keeper loop, and a back vent with a mesh yoke underlay that helps keep you cool. The front breast pockets are convenient for storing small essentials such as sunscreen, bug spray, or a camera lens cap. Outside of a slightly loose fit and some temperature issues, it’s a solid value.

Unbound Merino Wool shirt

MSRP – $85 | Material – Merino Wool

Our favorite t-shirts for safari and travel are from Unbound Merino. A merino wool shirt is a worthy investment and one of the best travel clothes for any trip. Despite the price, we’ve already transitioned much of our wardrobe to the material. Wools shirts stay fresh longer and do an excellent job at temperature management. Best of all, the heavier fabric looks better.

Despite being wool, the shirts can handle the heat surprisingly well, far better than their cotton counterparts. Performance is not as good in heat as a synthetic material like nylon or polyester, but it is far more comfortable and soft against the skin. We recommend the v-neck cut for a slightly more feminine shape for women.

Everlane Linen Shirt

MSRP – $85 | Material – Linen

I like to pack a technical long-sleeve shirt for a safari, but it’s tough to beat a classic shirt from a classic material like linen. It looks and feels excellent. There is no better summer shirt. Best of all, the material remains practical as the linen has anti-microbial properties and fights against odor.

It’s tough to find decent linen shirts online, but I love the quality and value of Everlane’s linen shirts. You can often score a deal, so if you stain or snag the shirt, it won’t end the world. Amazon makes some cheap linen shirts, but like most things from the company, they’re poor quality, but they will get the job done.

Safari Pants

With safari pants, you should keep the activity in mind. Light pants will be much more practical than shorts if you plan for bush walks. Pants provide excellent protection from mosquitos, a vital feature in malaria regions. We suggest bottoms with some stretch on all trips, such as hiking pants, not jeans, chinos, or khakis. New outdoor gear utilizes synthetic materials for strength, temperature management, and flexibility. When you hop into a safari vehicle, your pants need some flexibility. Temperature management will be critical in hot and humid environments where wearing shorts, like in the jungle for gorilla trekking, is not a good idea.

KUHL Freeflex/Free Radikl Pants

MSRP – $109 | Material – Enduro Fabric / Freeflex

Kuhl’s ENDURO blend fabric in their men’s Free Radikl and women’s Freeflex Roll-Up pants is a testament to their commitment to quality and durability. We prefer the comfort of lightweight synthetic pants as most safaris occur in hot weather. These safari pants are lightweight and super comfortable.

Whether you’re a rugged outdoorsman or a casual adventurer, Kuhl’s technical pants offer UPF 50 sun protection, six pockets, and the ultimate in year-round performance, making them the trusted choice for any outdoor excursion.

REI Co-op Pants

MSRP – $69 | Material – Cotton/Poly

The REI Co-op Trailsmith Pants combine style, comfort, and durability for an excellent safari pant. The pants come in two different designs based on gender. The men’s pants are traditional, while the women’s are joggers. No matter the design style, both styles use a blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex fabric. This allows them to wick away moisture and move with the body for a comfortable fit.

The pants have a wide range of pockets, including traditional hand and back pockets, a drop-in tool pocket at the side, and a pencil pocket at the thigh. We found all the pockets to be helpful. They also play well into the slightly loose fit of the pants, which provides comfort all day.

Fjallraven Vidda Pro

MSRP – $175 | Material – Polyester/Cotton

The Fjallraven Vidda Pro Trousers are our favorite adventure pants. The pants use a G-1000 Eco Fabric, a durable waxed canvas material in construction. It’s a tough material that is abrasion resistant, but due to its excellent fit, features, and smart panel construction, the pants are super comfortable.

Despite the heavy fabric, the pants feature two ample ventilation zips on both legs, allowing you to dump heat effectively and efficiently. The pants also include many functional pockets, such as two large pockets, a knife pocket, and an axe loop. Even if you don’t need the robust features of these safari pants, they have a very cool utilitarian look.

prAna Fernie/Vaha Pant

MSRP – $79 | Material – Hemp / Elastane

I spend so much time traveling in these pants they’ve become one of my favorite pairs. I now have a couple of pairs of Vaha pants. The prAna Vaha Pants and Fernie Pants (for women) are for yoga and climbing, but we use them for everything. The women’s pant is the Fernie pant, and the men’s is the Vaha pant. They’re great for a relaxed evening around camp or the lodge and can double as pajamas.

Hemp and recycled polyester give breathability to the pants with quick-dry and odor-fighting qualities and are a heck of an eco-friendly product. It’s a very relaxed and soft pant that feels like a regular pair of pants. The style works for almost all women, but the casual style may put some men off. We’re big fans of prAna, so we highly recommend checking out some of their products.

Safari Shorts

Do not fear wearing shorts while on safari! Most safaris are very easy-going, involving riding in the back of the vehicle. You don’t need pants to ride in a game viewer, and it is tough to beat shorts on a hot day!

Whatever you pack, you should consider the location, time of year, and activity level. We spend most of our time in Africa in shorts and sandals. If you want to learn more, read about our favorite safari shorts.

Men’s Safari Shorts

Patagonia Quandry Shorts

MSRP – $79 | Material – Nylon/Spandex

Patagonia’s Quandry shorts are classic safari shorts that offer comfort and versatility, making them great for safari adventures. We love the clean cut and subtle pocket of these lightweight men’s shorts, which also have a slimmer fit that moves well with your body thanks to the lightweight material that stretches when you do.

There are a few drawbacks to the shorts. It mainly concerns synthetic material, which can polarize a small minority of wearers. Consider looking elsewhere if you’re sensitive to these materials.

Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts

MSRP – $50 | Material – Nylon

The Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts have great value and good all-around performance. These 100% nylon shorts are breathable and quick-drying, perfect as safari clothes.

With deep and easily accessible hand pockets, three large cargo-style pockets, and a zippered security pocket on the left thigh, these shorts provide plenty of storage space. The Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts are an excellent choice for those looking for solid performance at a lower cost. They’ve been a best seller for years for a good reason.

Vuori Kore Shorts

MSRP – $68 | Material – Polyester/Elastane

Vuori is known for its athleisure clothes, and its Kore Shorts are some of our favorites from the brand. While not the most technical option, the Kore Short’s uber-comfortable fabric makes them perfect for various activities. They’re durable, practical, and comfortable for safari and everyday wear. It’s a casual version of safari shorts, but they look great paired with a t-shirt.

These shorts won’t pair well with a button-down shirt, but work for a relaxed look with a t-shirt. They are relatively expensive for lightweight athletic shorts; however, we believe the price reflects the quality. Lightweight athletic shorts are perfect for safari as most days are spent riding in the back of a game viewer.

Women’s Safari Shorts

Lululemon Cinchable Waist Shorts

MSRP – $75 | Material –  71% Polyester/Elastomultiester

I wouldn’t be listing these shorts, except for the fact that my wife lives in them, whether on safari, on the beaches of Greece, or exploring Tuscan towns. They are her go to shorts, and they go with everything. They are easy to care for, easy to clean, and look stylish no matter the outing.

Columbia Saturday Trail Short

MSRP – $45 | Material – Nylon/Elastane

The Columbia brand is always good for affordable outdoor wear. The Saturday Trail Shorts are perfect for a safari in Africa as they provide UPF 50 sun protection and insect repellant. Their stretchable fabric makes them ideal for sitting in a safari vehicle for long hours throughout the day.

Even though these are safari shorts, they are still fashionable enough for dinner and other activities around your safari. The best part about these shorts is that you can wear them daily life after your African safari experience. They are perfectly acceptable for hiking or running errands around town.

prAna Elle Shorts

MSRP – $59 | Material – Nylon/Elastane

The prAna Elle Shorts are ideal for women seeking comfort and versatility on their safari adventure. The shorts blend organic cotton and spandex for excellent breathability and stretch. The result is a super comfortable pair of shorts that look great. As prAna generally strives for sustainable materials, the cotton is Fair Trade Certified and organic.

The downside of these shorts is they’re primarily cotton, so they are not the best-performing shorts for safari. However, they feel more versatile as everyday shorts that suit various daily activities. With a mid-rise, fitted design and available in 3″ and 5″ inseam options, the prAna Elle Shorts are the perfect addition to any adventurous woman’s wardrobe.

The North Face Aphrodite Motion Shorts

MSRP – $45 | Material – Nylon/Elastane

The North Face Aphrodite Motion Shorts are perfect for safaris and other adventures. They’re made with a soft herringbone fabric that stretches for mobility and has water-repellent, sweat-wicking, and sun-protecting properties.

The shorts come in various colors, including khaki, and have a comfortable waistband, hand pockets, and a secure-zip pocket. The shorts are also adjustable thanks to a stretch drawcord. These skew a little younger as they are for more relaxed travelers. However, there are no rules, and these shorts still look great. You spend most of your time on safari in the back of a game viewer, so comfortable shorts are an excellent choice.

Safari Jackets

No matter what season you go on safari, you should at least bring a jacket in case it gets cold (we pack a down jacket on most trips). However, we suggest a safari jacket if you want something more stylish for warmth and photos. The jackets below provide some warmth but are light enough for mild days. If it’s frigid, you’ll want something warmer.

Men’s Safari Jackets

Orvis Heritage Field Jacket

MSRP – $275 | Material – Waxed Cotton Canvas

The Orvis Heritage Field jacket is one of the company’s best-selling products and makes for a tremendous safari jacket. There is a lot to love about the jacket, but it starts with the dry-waxed cotton canvas. It provides excellent protection from the elements.

The rugged protection makes it highly versatile, as it’s tough enough to resist thick brushes and stylish enough to wear around town. The jacket is also highly functional with two snap button bellow pockets, handwarmer pockets, and one interior breast pocket.

Everlane The Bomber Jacket

MSRP – $128 | Material – Cotton/Polyester

Everlane’s The Bomber Jacket is a modern version of a classic flight jacket. It’s a stylish jacket that is perfect for mild weather. We love the clean lines and timeless design that make it ideal for any setting or destination. While it’s not the classic safari style, its timeless design still works well.

We love that you can wear the jacket up or down to suit any occasion. It just feels like a tremendously versatile jacket. The khaki color is a great complement to any modern safari outfit.

SCOTTeVest Essential Jacket 2.0

Introducing the Essential 2.0 from ScotteVest, packed with an array of practical features, a whopping 24 pockets, and innovative zip-off sleeves that allow you to switch effortlessly between a jacket and to a vest. It’s the perfect choice for safari as you typically start off cold in the morning and easily warm up throughout the day!

This safari jacket has enough space for your camera, binoculars, and a cheeky snack to eat on a game drive! We find ScotteVest clothing in general to be overkill and a tad goofy, but they have a loyal following so some love their stuff.

Women’s Safari Jackets

Always Effortless Jacket

MSRP – $150 | Material – 89% Nylon, 11% Elastane

Experience the epitome of versatile style and functionality with this safari jacket from Lululemon, expertly crafted for those who are always on the go – on or off safari. This remarkable jacket embodies the spirit of adventure and is designed to seamlessly accompany you through every urban exploration and outdoor escapade.

The water-repellent Glyde fabric not only shields from unexpected African drizzles but adds a water-repellent sophistication on the back. With its classic fit and hip-length design, the jacket strikes the perfect balance between fashion and practicality – great for photos in the bush and keeping warm in the early morning!

The downside is that it’s a jacket for style and not the most durable on this list. It’s not going to protect you from hard weather or supply much warmth if you need it. However, we love that it’s machine washable, so you won’t have to run it to the dry cleaner when it gets dusty on safari.

Barbour Beadnell Jacket

MSRP – $385 | Material – Waxed Canvas

The Classic Beadnell jacket by Barbour is the one you’ll reach for every season of the year. Its waxed cotton exterior looks gorgeous and highly functional as it supplies wind and water resistance.

We appreciate the women’s fit that keeps an excellent shape that is done with front and back panels. The one downside is it’s too warm for hot destinations, but it is ready to tackle any cool weather. It’s an expensive jacket, but we feel it’s a worthy investment that will last a lifetime.

Banana Republic Norfolk Jacket

MSRP – $250 | Material – Cotton / Linen

The Norfolk Linen-Cotton Jacket is a statement piece that complements any safari look perfectly. Its picturesque riding jacket style is right out of our favorite safari movie. However, we don’t love it purely for its style as it’s reasonably practical.

The downside is that it’s a jacket for style and not the most durable or practical. It’s not going to protect from weather or supply much warmth. However, we love that it’s machine washable, so you won’t have to run it to the dry cleaner when it gets dusty on safari. Another excellent suggestion for a safari jacket from Banana Republic is the Heritage Suede Shirt Jacket.

Safari Dresses & Jumpsuits

Wearing a safari dress in Africa is always a great idea! Don’t be the girl who only goes on safari in khaki pants and a long-sleeved top. Safari dresses are a thing and can dress up your African safari. One can be as comfortable with the right safari style as shorts and a shirt.

Patagonia Fleetwith Romper

MSRP – $129 | Material -Recycled Polyester/Spandex

I love Patagonia and its brand ethos around sustainability. The Patagonia Fleetwith Romper is Bluesign certified and super comfortable. While the Fleetwith is available as a dress, I prefer the romper best. It’s just so functional, comfortable, and cute!

The one-piece romper is made from a 91% recycled polyester/9% spandex blend, moves with your body, resists wrinkles, and quickly dries. The romper and dress make for excellent safari wear, and they are so versatile you may end up living in them at home.

Scotch & Soda Safari Dress

MSRP – $165 | Material -Tencel

This fashion-forward safari dress from Scotch & Soda delivers everything I want in style. The classic off-white look, cuffs, and buttons down the front will feel right at home on a safari.

It’s made from a lightweight material called Tencel that is eco-friendly and operates in a closed-loop system. That soft material is light and breathes easily, so you’re comfortable and cool in the African sun. Be warned, this is a super popular item from the brand, and they regularly sell out, so the dress may be linked to a good dupe!

Fernie Jumpsuit

MSRP – $100 | Material – 100% TENCEL Modal

Finding a more perfect jumpsuit than the Fernie Jumpsuit from prAna for travel, safari, and life is tough. The fit, material, and colors are perfect! It all comes down to the quality of cotton and linen blend material.

We love prAna as they practice sustainability well and this jumpsuit uses sustainable materials. It’s lightweight for packing and adjustable for all levels of comfort.

Kuhl Vantage Dress

MSRP – $85 | Material – Polyester/Spandex

The Kühl Vantage Dress is super casual, comfortable, and practical. It features lightweight fabric that is soft and wicks away moisture. A polyester and spandex blend allows the fabric to stretch in four ways to move comfortably with your body.

Synthetic materials also allow the technical dress to resist odors, stains, and wrinkles. Yet it remains super lightweight and comfortable in warm weather. Best of all, the drawcord and cut make the dress flattering for various body types. The green color is also an excellent choice for safari!

Safari Boots

A good safari boot is the one thing that is a must when it comes to safari clothes and bushwalks. Sure, you can dress up in khaki, leather, leopard print, and dark green, but at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter all that much about what you wear on safari if you don’t have the shoe.

Blundstone Chelsea Boots

MSRP: $229 | Material: Leather

Blundstones are our go-to travel boots and make excellent safari boots. This boot is stylish, functional, and practical for any travel adventure. While it’s not a “technical” boot, it impressively handles moderate hikes and terrain. Style is a strong suit here, with a wide range of leather finishes to match your taste.

As they use premium leather, they require some upkeep with leather treatment to ensure longevity and water resistance. The Blundstone Chelsea Boot is a solid go-to for any stylish and practical safari adventure. We love these boots!

Danner Mountain 600

MSRP: $210 | Material: Suede Leather

The Danner Mountain 600 blends the latest boot tech with classic style for a reliable safari boot. Crafted from waterproof suede leather, the Mountain 600 features Danner Dry waterproof protection to keep your feet dry and comfortable no matter the conditions. TPU heel frames provide additional support and stability, while OrthoLite® footbeds offer cushioning and comfort.

It’s worth noting that Danner recommends sizing down half a size from what you typically wear, so keep that in mind when ordering. Overall, the Danner Mountain 600 Boot perfectly balances performance and aesthetics, making it an excellent addition to any safari packing list.

Merrell Moab 3

MSRP: $145 | Material: Suede leather/Mesh

If you’re in the market for hiking boots, the Merrell Moab 3 Boots are a popular choice. They’re made of leather, textile, and synthetic materials and are comfortable straight out of the box. Plus, with Merrell’s expertise in hiking boots, you can rest assured that your feet will be in good hands for long-distance walks.

We have owned several pairs of Moabs and can attest to their quality over the years. However, one thing to remember is that these boots are less specialized. While they are comfortable immediately, the soles are soft, making them less ideal for avid hikers. However, for everyone else, Merrell Moabs are a solid choice for comfortable safari boots that won’t disappoint.

Safari Hat

A safari hat is the perfect accessory for safari clothes. It’s not just about fashion as it keeps the sun off your face. Since the equator splits Africa, expect intense UV rays. No accessory is better suited or more fashionable than a safari hat—it feels right and never out of place.

10 Best Safari Hats for Men and Women

Tilley LTM6 Airflo Hat

MSRP: $99 | Material: Nylon

Tilley has long been famed for its sun protection hats. They’ve seen the world and been on more than a few adventures. The Tilley LTM6 Airflo holds its shape, and the material has a stylish look. Tilley is set apart because they guarantee their hats for life against wear and tear.

A wide brim keeps the sun off your hat. What I love in addition to the guarantee are the features such as its ability to float in the water and a hidden pocket to store an I.D. or money. It has everything you could want in a great safari hat. Although the higher price point may deter some – just keep in mind it has a lifetime guarantee.

Columbia Bora Bora Booney II

MSRP: $30 | Material: Nylon

I talk about stylish hats, but this Columbia safari cap is the least attractive. However, this hat is the most practical and cheap safari hat out of our selection. It still looks pretty good for a synthetic floppy hat that you can stuff and crush anytime.

The Bora Bora is made of nylon, is well-vented, packs well, and features UPF technology. Comfort is the strongest characteristic of this hat, as it keeps your head cool while sitting snuggly on your head. Unlike leather, which can be itchy, you’ll forget you’re even wearing this hat while in the bush. I love the built-in sweatband to keep moisture out of your eyes.

Scala All-Season Crushable Hat

MSRP: $60 | Material: Wool Felt

We love the Scala All-Season Crushable Hat. It’s made of wool felt and is an all-around great-looking olive green stylish safari hat. The style is similar to a fedora with a very Western vibe. It looks great, and the price point isn’t bad, either.

The best part about it is that for such a good-looking hat, the material still allows you to crush the hat to fit inside your luggage. Because no one likes to have to wear their hat home on a 15-hour flight. Once you take it out of your luggage, it snaps right back into shape!

Swimsuit

It all depends on where you’re going, but Africa has some of the best beaches in the world. Not to mention some stunning hotels, rivers, lakes, lodges, and waterfalls all present the ability to go for a dip. Plenty of great beach lodges make for a wonderful and relaxing end to a busy safari. You can read about the best hotels in Zanzibar or Diani Beach! You might not consider safari clothing, but we believe it is essential. Also, many high end lodges on safari have plunge pools to relax in.

For a fantastic women’s swimsuit brand, we recommend Londre. They make high-quality swimsuits for women. Many of their pieces are stylish yet supportive. Vuori makes fantastic lightweight Cruise Board Shorts in various prints and colors. They’re super comfortable, quickly dry, and the cut is perfect. We don’t like board shorts that are too long or loose, as they look sloppy.

Safari Bag

You’ll need a good safari bag to carry and pack all these safari clothes. You may take a bush flight or two if you’re going on safari. I recommend packing light, as most small planes severely limit baggage weight. We have been on flights where we are only allowed 15 kg a person, and some flights allow 25 kg. Make sure only to pack what you need.

The Best Safari Bags and Backpacks

The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel

MSRP: $155 | Capacities: 62L, 42L, 32L

The North Face Base Camp Voyager is one of the most functional duffel bags for safari we’ve ever tested. It’s an update to the Base Camp Duffel Bag, and we can confidently say we love every charge they made to the classic duffel bag. It starts with a sustainable build as the bag is made with 100% recycled materials. Its outer material is a TPU polyester that is ultra-durable and water-resistant, so your stuff is well protected.

The bag comes in three sizes 32L, 42L, and 62L. While we recommend the 62L for a safari as it has more room to pack for a week on the road, the two smaller sizes have a convenient laptop sleeve. The one big downside is the lack of a cross-body strap for a traditional duffel bag carry.

Nomatic Travel Bag

MSRP: $289 | Capacities: 40L

The Nomatic Travel Bag is a good travel bag for short trips. It’s a bag built around the premise of one-bag travel, with all the features you need for a seamless safari. However, all those features can make the bag a little clunky and difficult to pack effectively. The bag’s exterior tarpaulin material on the top panel provides water and abrasion resistance.

At 40L, the bag is best suited for 3-5 day one bag trips or can support a suitcase for extended journeys. Its sleek design and intelligent features make it an excellent fit for everyone, from business travelers to backpackers.

Filson Medium Rugged Twill Duffel Bag

MSRP: $575 | Capacities: 43L, 73L

Filson delivers beautiful products with attention to detail. The Medium Rugged Twill Duffel Bag makes for a gorgeous safari bag. Its unparalleled build quality assures us the bag should last a lifetime or, at the very least, a decade. Plus, it comes in three color styles to match any style.

A roomy interior has enough storage space, and two small internal side pockets work well for small essentials. Our only complaint would be for a better internal organization, which can be solved with packing cubes. Its 43L is enough for a savvy packer, or you can opt for the large version at 73L. Although, we prefer the 43L as we don’t trust airlines to check the 73L for international travel.

Safari Accessories

REI Coop Down Jacket

If your safari jacket is not warm enough, we recommend a packable down jacket. REI Co-op Down 650 is a down jacket that only costs $100, which is about as inexpensive as they come in the down jacket world.

When moving to the next destination, the jacket packs into the left pocket and occupies minimal space in your luggage. It has a water-repellent finish that should handle a light rain, snow, and wind. We suggest more safari jackets here!

Travel Sandals

You won’t want to live in safari boots. Good sandals are great for comfort on long travel days and under the hot African sun, like in Namibia or Egypt.

Like the locals, we spend 90% of our time in a pair of sandals when traveling around Africa. We only use our boots on bush walks, long hikes, and dirty streets.

Our favorite brand is Rainbow Sandals, as they last forever and are super comfortable once the leather forms to your foot. Another attractive option for women is the Sanuk Yoga Sling 2. If thong flip-flops aren’t great for your feet, choose something with more support. Some great options would be the Birkenstock Arizona, Teva Original, or Chaco Z/Cloud.

Smith Lowdown 2 Sunglasses

Polarized sunglasses help with contrast and spotting wildlife. It can be dusty in the back of a game vehicle. Then much of East Africa sits on the equator, which means UV rays are much stronger, so eye protection is super important.

Smith Optics Lodown 2.0 makes excellent active sunglasses that look sharp enough to wear around a posh seaside town. For a more formal and stylish brand, we love Persol and Rayban for their timeless style.

Buff Headwear

We travel around with Buff Headwear, and they’re some of our favorite travel accessories that we’ve recommended a handful of times. They’re great for keeping sweat out of our eyes on a hike.

Or in dust out of your face when riding down a dusty road, which you’ll need on safari. They offer sun protection, can act as a scarf, and many other things. Buy one and fall in love with it.

Grayl GeoPress Purifier Water Bottle

It’s not advisable to drink tap water in most of Africa. We travel with a water bottle that purifies water for safe drinking water. Our favorite is the Grayl GeoPress Purifier bottle. It saves money, reduces plastic waste, and ensures our water is safe and free of viruses and other waterborne illnesses.

The Grayl bottle is not only practical but also innovative in design. A press-like system effectively filters out sediment, bacteria, and heavy metals, leaving only clean and safe water. Its wide-mouth top makes it easy to drink and fill, and its sleek design fits comfortably in any bag or backpack.

Nikon Monarch 5 8×42

A great safari accessory to have is a pair of safari binoculars. Nikon has long been a reputable name in binocular manufacturing, and Monarch 5 Binoculars are an excellent example.

The 42mm lens diameter allows for excellent low-light viewing, while the body is built for extreme use – sounds perfect for a safari.

Sun Bum Natural Sunscreen

Skin cancer is for real! Don’t forget your SPF when traveling around Africa as you’re close to the Equator. We recommend ordering some online before leaving the house, as finding pharmacies outside South Africa is tough.

We highly recommend getting an eco-friendly sun cream that does not contain harmful chemicals. They’re mineral-based and usually only cost a few dollars more to help protect our oceans. If you’re not going to swim in the ocean, go with a reliable name brand — granted, runoff often still ends in our oceans and streams.

Insect Repellant

We recommend packing a bottle of insect repellant with Permethrin so you’ll scare away those annoying biting demons. It reduces the chances of Malaria or Yellow Fever.

Remember that DEET can destroy plastics, so mind your sunglasses or camera when applying. It’s good to bring a small bottle, but it’s easy to find great insect repellent all over Africa as it’s commonly used to prevent malaria.

Elements of Good Safari Garments

There are a couple of key elements to look at with each piece of safari clothing. While you may picture yourself as an adventure seeker, remember that you are a guest, and your safari guide will handle the nitty-gritty.

Unless you’re driving across Africa like us, you’ll be safe. The clothes you pack should be for comfort, not some rugged adventure. If it doesn’t feel comfortable, you may as well leave it at home.

Versatility

You’ll want to pack light. The days are often busy, so multiple wardrobe changes aren’t in the mix. Solid clothes that are casual yet stylish enough to wear to dinner in a lodge over a five-course meal.

Versatility can include the right material, fit, and functionality. For example, a good long sleeve shirt can keep you warm in the morning but cool during the day in a way that short-sleeve or tee shirts fail.

Durability

This one is key. Africa can be hard on clothes, even on a short trip. Climbing in and out of a safari vehicle can rip a weak pair of pants or shorts. Look for clothes for Africa that stretch a little.

You also have a lot of dust and sun exposure. If you’re involved in conservation efforts, on a walking safari, or spending time outside a game vehicle. In that case, you need decent safari clothes that hold up to the elements.

The best way is often to stick with solid name brands that we trust when ordering online or to shop in your local store, although that can be difficult with limited selections.

Material

With a safari, you’ve come to see nature, and that’s what you will encounter. So, your clothing needs to be well suited to the environments of Africa. We try to choose solid natural materials like hemp, linen, leather, or wool for our outdoor wear.

Manmade materials such as nylon or polyester are other great options, as they are excellent at moisture management and protection. The only material we’re not massive fans of is cotton, but it’s often the softest and warmest material with great value. I always read the tags and materials on outdoor apparel before I make a purchase and consider its intended purpose.

Practicality

Things like having pockets can make or break good safari gear and wear. Where else will you stash things like lip balm, sunscreen, or even a pair of binoculars? The day-to-day wear of clothes is crucial because if you feel uncomfortable in the bush, you’ll likely look ridiculous. You aren’t walking the runways of Paris but spending time in the bush—care about your look, but not too much.

Camouflage

Safari clothing should blend in with the environment. You should wear beige, green, and brown colored clothes. They are the staple colors of safari wear because they blend into the environment and can provide a better game-viewing experience.

While wearing, bright colors such as red are said to scare off animals and make you stand out. This may or may not be true. Only the animals know for sure. Of course, the Maasai Warriors in Kenya and Tanzania have been wearing red for centuries!

That being said, neutral colors do a great job of hiding dirt and dust, which will be plenty of on a drive or walk through the bush. White clothes aren’t going to stay white very long, and dark colors are believed to attract tsetse flies. Trust us; you do not want to become familiar with tsetse flies!

For example, wearing long pants and greens is advised when gorilla trekking. When on foot, wearing colors that blend well into the environment and a good pair of safari boots is always recommended.

We love greens, beige, and khaki just as much as the next wannabe Merryl Streep in Out of Africa. However, you will spend a lot of time in a car on game drives in Africa. Wearing these colors helps you blend in and not bake your body under the hot African sun, but in the end, most colors don’t matter.

Tips On Safari Clothes

• Safari Clothes Are Not Required – You do not have to wear special safari clothes. Most time on safari is spent in a vehicle where clothes choice does not matter much.
• Blend – Attempt to blend in. Remember to wear a safari outfit and clothes suited for the environment.
• No Animal Prints – Don’t wear animal prints or some ridiculous getup. You’re not bushwacking through the African jungle. This isn’t Jumanji. You’ll spend most of your time in the back of a vehicle. So, wear comfortable clothes that will not stain by dirt, offer sun protection, and are comfortable from the heat or cold.
• It Can Get Cold – Mind the weather. It can get cold in the back of a game vehicle in Africa especially in the early morning or at night. Make sure to pack a nice jacket. Anything that breaks the wind should do.
• Ditch Dark Blue – DO NOT wear blue if you are traveling in areas with Tsetse flies. Blue attracts the Tsetse fly, which is not a myth.
• Don’t Overpack – You only need a handful of shirts and pants. You are in the African bush, and there is no need for multiple wardrobe changes. However, always to pack ample underwear and socks. Many high end lodges offer to wash your clothes daily for free as well.
• Relax – Keep it simple at five-star lodges in Africa. Things are still casual.
• Sunglasses – Good sunglasses will save your eyes from staring at landscapes all day.
• Layer – Make sure to pack in layers. It will go from cold in the morning to hot at night and then back to evening time.
• Light Rain Jacket – Bring a light rain jacket, depending on the season. Most Safari companies and lodges come prepared in this aspect and will provide their guests with nice thick ponchos, but if you’re doing it on your don’t forget a rain jacket.
• Pockets! – We love clothing with pockets to carry sunblock, chapstick, flashlight, camera, or binoculars. It’s better than having to juggle around a bag. We already have our safari cameras to contend with in the back of a game viewer.

Clothing Brands We Recommend

Where to buy safari clothes? Finding a store that carries safari clothes is tough outside South Africa. I would recommend you shop online. We like to choose quality. A good safari outfit is versatile, long-lasting, and timeless. Spending the extra dough to buy reputable brands is always a good idea.

• Patagonia – You’ll know we love this brand if you’ve read our other packing guides. They make great quality clothes that hold up.
• REI – This is one of our favorite stores! There may be no specific REI safari clothes, but you can find many products that will serve you well in the bush.
• Columbia – This is a great outdoor company with affordable products. We tend to like Patagonia more, but the brand costs significantly more for a slight quality improvement.
• First Ascent – You can’t find this brand in America, but if shopping in South Africa, they make some great quality clothes.
• prAna – They’re a closer runner-up to Patagonia for style and quality in outdoor apparel.

Book A Safari in Africa

Traditionally if you wanted to book a safari, you’d have to go to a travel agent and have them book your safari for you. They suggest camps and lodges then present you with a large bill. Most of the industry still operates in this fashion.

However, Timbuktu is a new platform that allows you to select the lodges you’d like and see the pricing per day to select the best itinerary for yourself. They will then contact the lodges and help you by booking your safari. Experts on staff can also provide suggestions and arrange the little details like a travel agent.

It’s also a sure way to share your wildlife experiences with friends and family back home. There are several aspects to consider when looking for the best safari camera. This post is not meant for professional photographers. If you’re likely at that level, you know what the perfect safari camera is for you.

Best Safari Cameras

Canon R5

The Canon R5 is the flagship model of Canon’s mirrorless line, and they back it up with an impressive range of lenses ready to capture wildlife. It’s excellent for everyone, from professionals to hobbyists seeking a premier camera. The robust camera can handle a wide range of photography, from wildlife to landscapes and portraits.

A full-frame mirrorless sensor inside the weather-resistant body delivers 45MP images and 8K video. The body follows Canon’s previous 5D line, a proven formula that feels great in your hands. With a robust grip and a rugged body, it feels adept at tackling adverse weather conditions such as dust while on safari.

It’s easy to miss the shot on safari and the Dual Pixel II AF system with human and animal detection trained by machine learning. It’s an impressive system that feels very adept when shooting lions in the bush. There isn’t much to complain about the Canon R5 besides the high price tag. The price point is limited to prosumers and hobbyists ready to invest in the Canon line.

2.) Sony RX10 IV

The Sony RX10 IV is a bridge camera. It fills the gap between old-school point-and-shoot cameras and interchangeable lens systems. A bridge camera with a fixed lens offers shooters a versatile zoom lens. It provides the simplicity of point and shoots with superior image quality.

Theb Sony RX10 IV is an excellent superzoom bridge camera with a 24-600mm 2.4-4 zooms lens. It’s backed up with a 20MP 1″ stacked BSI-CMOS sensor. It allows for phase-detect autofocus for depth awareness, which is essential when focusing at long focal lengths. It will find the focus faster and can shoot 24 frames per second with auto exposure. It can also shoot a respectable 4K video that should impress most hobbyists.

If you’re looking for a straightforward camera that will be easy to use as a photographer, this camera is a great pick. The camera is an exceptional pick for safari-goers who want high-quality images without extensive knowledge of photography or the need for individual lenses. The downsides to the camera include the price point and lack of much for progression as a photographer.

3.) FUJIFILM X-T5

For a safari camera that looks as good as the images it captures, the Fuji X-T5 is an easy choice. The build quality on this mirrorless camera is excellent, with reliable weatherproofing and retro dials that make manual shooting intuitive. It is easily the best ASP-C camera on the market and gives a run at some of the full-frame cameras in function.

The Fuji X-T4 has a superb autofocus function and image capture due to its cutting-edge 40MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor. It can shoot up to 30 frames per second with its electrotonic shutter and 15 fps with the mechanical. Video is where the camera shines, as the stabilization is excellent. It can shoot video in 12-bit color and the modern codec of H.265.

In form, the camera feels great in hand and features dual card slots, a rotating screen, and multiple dials. The EVF is brilliantly bright, and the rear LCD looks sharp. APS-C cameras are great for travel as they utilize more compact lenses. Fuji delivers an excellent line of razor-sharp lenses for an affordable price compared to full-frame lenses.

The camera is a great stills camera and an excellent video camera, but even better at switching back is forth between the two formats. This is a great safari camera to shoot videos and stills. The Fuji X-T5 is the camera we use for work as professional writers and content creators.

4.) Canon 90D

The Canon 90D, despite some age, makes for a great safari camera. The camera has many solid suits for an exceptional safari camera. It’s weatherproof, meaning those dusty roads and African thunderstorms won’t take your camera by surprise.

It has a cropped sensor that shoots a whopping 32.5 MP image with a high dynamic range. The cropped sensor gives a greater focal length, combined with the high processing power of the latest Canon cameras, which means it shoots rock star photos. Also, an EF mount Canon has a massive selection of lenses to put on the camera with a vast selection of quality and price points.

The camera has a WiFi connection so users can pair and remotely shoot with their phones. A sweet flip screen great for low-angle ground shots and shooting video. The touchscreen LCD makes live 4K video focusing and tracking a breeze. So, it’s arguably one of the best cameras for safari on the market and particularly well-loved by birders!

5.) Sony Rx100 III-VII

Despite its compact size, the Sony RX100 is well known for packing a punch. The camera has many models that vary by price and features. The models offer a one-inch sensor and a solid lens for excellent image quality. It’s an impressive camera that can shoot 24 images per second and a lovely 4K video.

A built-in lens at a 2.8 aperture allows the camera to handle low light and produce a shallow depth of field for professional-looking photos. Hand-held video and shots are smooth, thanks to the sensor stabilization. Although its point-and-shoot nature, users have complete manual control with the ability to shoot RAW images.

The negatives are the size of the camera makes it uncomfortable for shooting all day, okay at landscapes, and it has a small viewfinder and one lens. I find the viewfinder challenging to use in harsh lighting conditions, tough to operate for a full day, and annoying with the lack of a spare battery. If you’re an aspiring photographer, it leaves a lot to desire in image manipulation with new lenses. It also doesn’t have the best zoom at 70mm; I prefer a longer lens when taking safari photos.

However, it’s an excellent travel camera for most as you don’t need many accessories, just a memory card with a lightweight tripod. It fits in a pocket, and you can easily take it to sensitive areas. Its compact size is desirable for hikers, minimalists, or anyone who doesn’t want a dedicated camera bag.

6.) Canon EOS M50 II

The EOS M50 Mark II is an excellent compact mirrorless camera with an impressive 24MP APS-C sensor that utilizes Canon’s Dual Pixel autofocus. Despite its small size, the camera feels comfortable in the hands and offers a good EVF/rear screen display. The appeal of the M50 is the beautiful auto mode that can help novice photographers produce impressive images.

Settings are easy to adjust, yet it’s feature-rich enough to grow with the camera experience. It also features a nifty Bluetooth/WiFi connection that works reliably. Autofocus on the camera is reliable, and Canon’s Dual Pixel AF system quickly finds its subject. Its images are sharp and deliver the color quality we expect from Canon.

It has a few negatives. Most notable is the limited lens selection with the mount and lackluster video. It’s a poor choice if you like to shoot many videos, but it does shoot beautiful images in its well-designed body. It also has a well-priced kit with 15-45mm and 55-200mm lenses.

7.) Nikon Z5

Nikon’s Z5 mirrorless camera is one of the most affordable full-frame cameras ever. It features an in-body stabilized 24MP CMOS chip with phase detection autofocus. Those impressive specs are inside a robust, weather-resistant camera body. Nikon has been building an amazing camera body for decades, and this is what we have come to expect from the camera behemoth.

The camera function is good, with two control dials, a tilting touchscreen, an AF joystick, and a high-resolution EVF. It’s comfortable to handle, and the two control dials are customizable. Autofocus performance is terrific, as is the autofocus subject tracking. Battery life is decent, with the average charge lasting just under 500-400 shots.

Image quality is the real stand out with the Z5 as it has excellent ISO performance, color rendition, and dynamic ranges. The camera crops the image 1.7x down when in 4K mode, so getting a wide angle or gauging the correct lens is challenging. It’s also only 24MP for a full-frame camera. Regardless, it’s a capable still camera that is excellent for those looking to up their photography.

8.) Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ1000 II

The Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ1000 II is a bridge camera. It fills the gap between old-school point-and-shoot cameras and interchangeable-lens cameras. A bridge camera has a fixed lens with optical and digital zoom. It offers the simplicity of point and shoots with superior image quality. For the price point, it’s a rugged camera to compare due to its lens range! You can buy better cameras, but they won’t have an equivalent lens.

The advantages of this camera include a larger sensor than most bridge cameras, and it shoots 4k video. While the lens is not interchangeable, it ranges from 25mm to 400mm. The sensor is more significant than most competitors at almost 1″, which means it is one of the best in a bridge camera. The camera body is a nice build and will feel natural in your hands.

If you’re looking for a straightforward camera that will be easy to use as a novice photographer, this camera is a great pick. The camera is an exceptional pick for safari-goers who want high-quality images without extensive knowledge of photography or the need for individual lenses. The current price point offers a ton of value if you want the latest and greatest try-out, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV, for a top-of-the-line bridge camera.

9.) Canon 1dx MkIII

The Canon 1D X MkIII is the flagship DSLR of Canon, and it’s a mighty camera. Simply put, the camera is the toughest, fastest, most versatile, and greatest image-quality camera ever made. The full-frame camera is capable of shooting RAW images at 20 fps a second. If you want to know what the guys from National Geographic are carrying, it’s the Canon 1D X MkIII.

The rear LCD is super bright so you can view photos in the hot African sun. Plus, the screen features a beautiful touchscreen for adjusting settings, adjusting the focus on video, and swiping through your pictures. Speaking of the video, the 1D X Mkii can shoot 5.5k Raw at 60fps and 1080 at 120fps. That way, you can catch high-definition images in super-smooth slow motion.

One negative to Canon’s flagship camera is the high price tag of over $6,500 for the camera body. So, when you add in the cost of lenses, you’re looking at a hefty investment. However, you get a safari camera prepared to handle the bush and produce professional-quality images for the price.

10.) Panasonic DC-ZS200

The Lumix LX DC-ZS200 is a compact point-and-shoot camera that can satisfy even the most experienced photographer’s expectations with its 20.1 MP 1″ sensor. It fully uses the little Leica zoom lens that can reach up to 15x for a range of 24 to 360mm.

The TZ200 is so versatile that its interface is simple enough for novice photographers but offers sophisticated manual settings that allow experts limitless creative control. Its lens has an aperture equivalent of 1.7-2.8, perfect for macro photography and low-light shooting. On top of everything else, the TZ200 also shoots in 4K ultra-high definition.

One would think the TZ200 would also include a tilting touchscreen for so many advanced functions, which is pretty standard with most newer cameras on the market today. If dependent on the EVF (electronic viewfinder), be prepared for the battery to drain quickly. Most impressive is the weight to the performance of this camera, as it weighs only 340g and can hold its own against larger format cameras.

quick Table Of The Best Safari Cameras

Camera	Details	Shop
Canon R5	• Mirrorless • 8K Video • 45 MP • Weatherproof	($3,899) Shop on B&H Photo
Sony RX10 IV	• Bridge Camera • 4K Video • 20.1 MP • 24-600 Zoom	($1,698) Shop on B&H Photo
FUJIFILM X-T5	•APS-C Mirrorless • 40 MP • Exceptional Color • Weatherproof	($2,199) Shop on B&H Photo
Canon 90D	• DSLR • ASP-C • 32.5 MP • Weatherproof	($1,199) Shop on B&H Photo
Sony Rx100 III-VII	• Mirrorless Point and Shoot • 20.1 MP • 24-70mm Zoom	($598 -$850) Shop on B&H Photo
Canon EOS M50 II	• Compact Mirrorless • 24 MP • APS-C Sensor	($699) Shop on B&H Photo
Nikon Z5	• Full Frame • 24 MP • Mirrorless	($1,296) Shop on B&H Photo
DC-FZ1000 II	• Bridge Camera • 20.1 MP • 1″ CMOS Sensor	($897) Shop on B&H Photo
Canon 1dx MkIII	• DSLR Full Frame • 20.1 MP & 20 FPS •RAW 5.5K (60) Video •Best In Class Camera	($6,499) Shop on B&H Photo
Panasonic DC-ZS200	• Mirrorless Point and Shoot • 20.1 MP • 24-360 Zoom	($697) Shop on B&H Photo

Best Safari Camera Lenses

Fuji XF 55-200

This lens is of tremendous value. Most long lenses are quite expensive and bulky, but for a reasonable price, Fuji delivers a sharp long lens that is fairly compact. As a plus, the stabilization in the lens is truly impressive.

Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8

Sony had to compete with Canon’s classic 70-200mm lens that photographers have long loved. With this lens, they effectively delivered a razor-sharp lens with image stabilization and quick autofocus.

Tamron 150 – 600 G2

The perfect zoom lens will make all the difference regarding wildlife and safari. An excellent focal length for a safari lens should come at 200mm. That’s why Tamron’s 150-600 is a slam dunk. For the price, it’s tough to beat this safari lens.

It has a fantastic feel in your hands and the build quality – albeit a bit heavy. The lens is sharp throughout and only sees a slight softening at 600mm, but it’s 600mm, so who cares. You can snap a photo of a lion’s eye at that focal length.

A similar focal length lens from Canon or Nikon will cost several times more, some even $15,000. The value of this lens is unreal, and they produce it for both Canon and Nikon shooters.

Canon 70-200mm

This is the second most popular lens Canon has ever made. The Canon EF 70-200mm is an amazing telephoto zoom loved for its image. There are many models, but I recommend looking for more recent additions with image stabilization. Every working professional has carried this lens at some point or still packs it in their bag.

Safari Camera Gear Accessories

There are several camera accessories that we recommend you carry for your safari. None of these are must-haves, but they’ll help you produce better results.

Travel Tripod

This is one of the best tools you can pack in your bag. A travel tripod is essential for getting a stable shot with a long lens and can allow you to capture compelling images with long exposures.

I can’t recommend a tripod enough if you’re interested in landscape photography. Our favorite safari photos wouldn’t have been possible without this camera gear. Our favorite travel tripod is the Peak Design carbon tripod, which is lightweight yet stable.

Lens Filters

If you’re investing in some nice safari camera gear, I’d suggest picking up a lens filter set. At the very least, you should place a UV filter on your lens. A UV filter is a clear piece of glass designed to protect your lens, ensuring that dust doesn’t cause a permanent scratch on your lens.

You can replace a filter much more easily than a lens. This is particularly important for the zoom lens since the magnification will make lens imperfections more noticeable. To get the right size, look at the thread size on your camera lens. If you’re having a tough time, try reaching out to support or shoot Cameron an email.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack

This excellent daypack and backpack work well for travel and everyday life. We love the gear we have from Peak Design, and it’s all exceptionally high quality. Their Everyday Backpack provides accessibility, organization, and quality we’ve seen in no other backpack. What makes it stand out is the backpack feels ready to take on everyday life in addition to your photography needs.

Drones in Africa

If you’ve seen much of our blog or followed us for a while, you’ll know we made a series of videos with a drone throughout Africa. I’ve flown in every country in Southern and East Africa. There are a couple of things to take note of! First, you should know that drones in National Parks are a big no-no. 

That said, I have flown a handful of times with the permission of a park ranger in our presence, and most of my flights were back in 2016 as well. This was well before the prevalence of drones.

If you plan to fly on your safari, ask your guide or lodge manager first. Private reserves are more lenient (except Selous) than the National Park Systems. Also, keep in mind that the drone stresses a lot of animals out, particularly elephants.

DJI Mavic

This compact drone from DJI is by far the most compact. We got super excited when we saw the release and now carry it with us on our travels. It fits in the palm of your hand and takes up minimal space.

The drone can fly up to 43mph, and its films are in 4K. I also love the camera’s wide range of flight modes, such as programmed flight paths and following features. It’s incredible how fast DJI has progressed in the drone market. You can not beat the size and convenience of this drone!

My Safari Camera Setup

This is the camera setup that I now carry on safari. The photo above was in Mana Pools National Park, one of our favorites!

• Canon 90D: For wildlife shots. I love the durability, video, and cropped APS-C sensor.
• Fuji X-T5: Amazing for image quality and landscapes. Fujifilm cameras have the best color rendition on the market.
• Canon 24 -105 L Lens: This is possibly the greatest lens ever made and is beloved by photographers for its versatility.
• Tamron 150 – 600 G2: Amazing Long Lens
• Canon 16 – 35mm: Fantastic Wide Angle
• Mavic Air:  We’ve had the Mavic Pro and Phantom, but the size of the Mavic Air is amazing!
• Tripod: Every serious photographer carries a tripod for stable shots and long exposures.
• Joby: I love this bendable and lightweight tripod.
• GoPro: Not any use on a traditional safari, but always fun on the beaches of Zanzibar!

Basics Of A Safari Camera

Several criteria make an excellent camera for a safari. A lot also depends on the camera’s intended use. Not everyone is in it for the photos, and not everyone wants the same photos. There is no clear-cut answer here for the best camera for safari, but there is the best camera for a specific person.

Cost

This one is an obvious criterion. Not everyone has the budget to spend thousands of dollars on a camera, nor should they. There is no point in spending lots of money on a camera to collect dust or confound the user.

There is also that best bang for buck aspect. While a high-end professional camera costs a lot, the high prices often make it pointless for anyone but a professional. Even some professionals see the additional cost as a waste!

FPS (Frames per second)

This is an essential aspect for many. It refers to how quickly a camera can shoot a burst of photos. With fast-moving subjects on safari, you’ll want to capture that perfect moment. This may require a burst and a fast fps.

This refers to how many photos the camera can take in one second. This is not the most crucial aspect to consider when comparing similar cameras.

Sensor

The sensor refers to the light-sensitive chip in every digital camera that interprets how light is perceived to create a digital image. Sensors come in a variety of shapes and sizes and have the most direct impact on image quality. When it comes to wildlife photography, every inch counts.

All lenses are measured mathematically for a full-frame sensor – the same size as a 35mm film camera. So, cameras employing a smaller sensor have a cropped effect on lens focal length. This means 100mm on a Canon 90D is the focal length of a 160mm lens.

Lens

The lens is the most important aspect when shooting wildlife photography. You can have the best camera money can buy, but if you have a wide-angle lens, you aren’t going to get those stellar close-up wildlife shots. Many cameras opt for interchangeable lenses, allowing a wide range of focal lengths to get wide landscape shots and tight close-ups. When shooting wildlife, the far-reaching lens or zoom is essential.

Lens distance is referred to as focal length. The focal length is measured in millimeters, with a short focal length (25mm) creating a wide-angle image and a long focal length (135mm) creating a tight/zoomed image.

The two images above were taken from the same distance.

Build

The African bush can be brutal on just about everything. Safari lodges and vehicles constantly fight the elements of dust, dirt, humidity, heat, wind, rain, and even wild animals. Although it’s unlikely your camera will have to survive an elephant, the environment should be considered.

Professional cameras are built to be weatherproof, meaning they can handle dust, dirt, and rain directly on the camera. I’ve carried my Canon camera through rainstorms without fear of being ruined. Several cameras are purpose-built to hold up to the elements.

Comfort

How does the camera feel in your hands? Are you going to drop it? Is it heavy? Or does it feel like an extension of your arms and eyes? A camera with a solid grip is a lifesaver when shooting photos while walking in the bush, from a moving boat, or the game viewer.

Where to Buy Your Camera for Safari?

We shop for almost all of our photography needs on B&H Photo. They’re the best camera shop in America and have worked with professional film, video, and photography needs for decades.

They’re responsible for handling the equipment of major feature films, Pulitzer Prize photographers, and everyday consumers like ourselves. Their support is tremendous and knowledgeable. On top of all that, they offer free two-shipping, so forget about ordering camera gear on Amazon!

Safari clothes are a serious affair in Africa. Yes, it is a bit “old-fashioned,” but fashions like the proper safari outfit never die. Unlike certain parts of the world, you won’t be laughed at if you show up in all khaki on a game reserve.

While we are not seasoned guides, we have spent a year in the bush. We have been to all of the major parks of Southern and East Africa and put our favorite shirts to the test. We have a severe addiction to finding and testing the best garments on the market to form the best safari knowledge possible.

What Makes The Perfect Safari Shirt?

The perfect safari shirt will make all the difference in being comfortable throughout the day. A synthetic shirt will give the most practicality, while cotton or linen shirts have a more timeless look.

Organic textiles like cotton, wool, or hemp can provide an excellent base for warmth on a cold morning or a fantastic evening. Synthetic advantages mostly relate to quick-drying, stain resistance, and keeping cool. We recommend long-sleeved shirts as they provide UV and bug protection.

Below is a collection of some of the best safari shirts we’ve found on the market. It is a guide about what to look for; the best fit for you may not be on this list. We’d also suggest you check out our post on safari pants.

Best Safari Shirts

Columbia Tamiami II

The Columbia Tamiami II Shirt is a great safari shirt with various features for a comfortable outdoor experience. With its blend of Omni-Wick moisture management and antimicrobial treatment, this shirt is perfect for hot and humid climates, actively breathing and wicking away moisture for fast evaporation. Although, the material is heavier and feels more crinkly than a typical shirt. Its heavier weight gives the Tamiami II superior durability.

Despite its heavier weight, the vented back panels and front pockets provide additional ventilation for a comfortable choice on long days out in the sun. It provides reliable UV protection with its Omni-Shade UPF 40. The roll-up sleeves are thoughtful design features that add to the shirt’s versatility. We also appreciate that women get practical clothing with five pockets.

While this shirt’s loose cut and outdoor style may not appeal to everyone, its practical features make it an excellent option for those seeking an affordable, well-designed safari shirt. It’s not the most stylish shirt in the world, but for around $50, it’s an excellent value.

Patagonia Long Sleeve Sun Stretch Shirt

We love the Patagonia Long Sleeve Sun Stretch Shirt as it’s practical and comfortable. A large part of this has to do with the fabric that blends recycled nylon and polyester. The result is a safari shirt that is quick-drying and lightweight. That lightweight fabric is ideal for Africa’s hot and humid conditions. In addition, the fabric has enough stretch to not limit mobility, despite its button-down style.

In addition to its technical features, the Patagonia Long Sleeve Sun Stretch Shirt also boasts stylish western-inspired drop-in pockets, making it ideal for carrying essentials. The shirt also features collar snaps to keep the collar from flapping in windy conditions and a hidden lens cleaner to keep optics clear. Our only complaint about the shirt is the high price tag.

REI Co-op Sahara

The REI Co-op Sahara Long Shirt is an excellent choice for a safari shirt. It offers a timeless, versatile look for travel, safari, or hiking. We love that REI delivers a comfortable midweight shirt with fantastic value. Along with reliable performance, the shirt comes in a range of pattern and color options suitable for the bush.

Their Sahara material uses a nylon fabric that is Bluesign®-approved. It effectively wicks moisture, resists wrinkles, dries quickly, and offers UPF 50 sun protection. Side and underarm panels help reduce odor and allow for easier movement with the aid of spandex. However, they don’t dump heat as effectively as previous models that utilized mesh side panels.

Features include two front breast pockets, roll-up tabs for the sleeves, a sunglass keeper loop, and a back vent with a mesh yoke underlay that helps keep you cool. The front breast pockets are convenient for storing small essentials such as sunscreen, bug spray, or a camera lens cap. Outside of a slightly loose fit and some temperature issues, it’s a solid value for a safari shirt.

Unbound Merino Wool shirt

Our favorite t-shirts for safari and travel are from Unbound Merino. A merino wool shirt is a worthy investment and one of the best travel clothes for any trip. Despite the price, we’ve already transitioned a lot of our wardrobe to the material. Wools shirts stay fresh longer and do an excellent job at temperature management. Best of all, the heavier fabric looks better.

Cotton shirts often take one or two wears to feel oily and heavy, while wool shirts last for days. I’ve tested a lot of wool shirts out, and my favorite for travel so far is from Unbound Merino. Their shirts are a perfect weight, and the material is soft and impressively durable. Our test samples have exceeded the life of a traditional cotton or synthetic shirt.

Despite being wool, the shirts can handle the heat surprisingly well, far better than their cotton counterparts. Performance is not as good in heat as a synthetic material like nylon or polyester, but it is far more comfortable and soft against the skin. We recommend the v-neck cut for a slightly more feminine shape for women.

Everlane Linen Shirt

I like to pack a technical long-sleeve shirt for a safari, but it’s tough to beat a classic shirt from a material like linen. It looks and feels excellent. There is no better summer shirt. Best of all, the material remains practical as the linen has anti-microbial properties and fights against odor.

Pair a linen shirt with sandals, shorts, chinos, jeans, or boots. It will always work. Linen shirts are versatile clothing that looks good for both sexes and works at the beach, museum, archaeological site, or safari. It’s a classic style for a safari shirt.

It’s tough to find decent linen shirts online, but I love the quality and value of Everlane’s linen shirts. You can often score a deal, so if you stain or snag the shirt, it won’t end the world. Amazon makes some cheap linen shirts, but like most things from the company, they’re poor quality.

Icebreaker Tech Lite

The Icebreaker Tech Lite Shirt is a great all-rounder t-shirt that works in many different situations. It’s a hiking shirt that is breathable and ultra-soft next to your skin. It’s a more technical wool hiking shirt but does a beautiful job on safari.

There’s a lot about this shirt that gives it some high-grade credentials. First, raglan sleeves mean no shoulder seams for extra comfort when carrying a pack. Fabric is wrapped around a nylon core for durability but keeps the soft wool next to the skin for comfort. It’s a tough garment and can be machine-washed.

The difference between the Icebreaker and Unbound is the fabric construction and cut. The Icebreaker Tech Lite is a lighter shirt that handles the heat better and has a more athletic cut. While Unboud is heavier, more comfortable, and resembles a typical t-shirt. They are both solid choices, but it all depends on personal preference.

Patagonia Farrier’s Shirt

Patagonia’s Farrier Shirt is a versatile, durable, and comfortable safari shirt that is perfect for an adventure. The fabric in the shirt is a blend of industrial hemp and recycled polyester that is tough enough to withstand the rigors of bush life. Don’t mistake durability for sacrificing comfort, as the fabric is still soft against the skin.

Its weight is ideal for spring conditions, and the deep sleeve plackets with buttoned cuffs allow easy roll-up above the elbow, adding to its versatility. We love this shirt for its excellent style. Stand-out details on the shirt include metal buttons, a flip-up collar, and two pleated chest pockets.

The box pleat at the back allows freedom of movement through the upper body, and the straight hem is long enough to be worn tucked or untucked. The Farrier’s Shirt is Fair Trade Certified sewn, so you can feel good about wearing it knowing it is ethical. We love the shirt but find it too hot for daytime wear on most safaris. Before packing the safari shirt, we recommend checking the average temperatures for the season.

Topo Designs Dirt Shirt

The Topo Designs Dirt Shirt is part of the brand’s sustainable Dirt Collection. It’s less technical than most shirts on this list, but it does benefit from a blend of spandex that provides a decent amount of flex.

We love the shirt’s organic cotton fabric over synthetic materials as it provides a timeless style. The midweight stretch canvas uses a special garment dye to soften the color and fabric. As a result, it feels like an old favorite from its first wear. Those muted colors also supply the shirt’s rugged style.

While the shirt is not feature-packed, it has a single chest patch pocket and button cuffs that add to its classic style. You can wear the shirt on safari, for morning errands, an afternoon in the yard, or a nightly stroll through town. It’s a versatile shirt.

Outdoor Research Shirt Echo Series

Wearing a shirt with a collar on a safari is not required. For day activities, wearing a moisture-wicking athletic shirt such as the Outdoor Research Echo is great. They are among the best lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and come in short sleeves, hoodies, and tank tops.

The long-sleeved Echo provides complete UV protection, but you won’t get hot under the sun. These shirts have UPF sun protection, AirVent moisture management, and ActiveFresh odor control technology. Pick a shirt that is loose and light-colored. It gets bloody HOT in Africa, and the last thing you want to wear is a skin-tight black shirt.

Columbia Silver Ridge Lite Long Sleeve

Columbia’s Silver Ridge Shirt is feature-rich, lightweight, and offers terrific value. It’s not a surprise that it’s a classic option for a safari shit. It’s a similar shirt to the Columbia Tamiami II at the top of our list but has a more traditional style. The Tamiami II shirt is made for anglers, but we love the vented back and pockets that make the shirt so comfortable in the heat.

However, the Silver Ridge features a more classic shirt style and many of the same features, such as Omni-Shade technology which gives the shirt UPF 40 sun protection. So it’s a shirt perfect on hot days when long sleeves are typically too much, and the sun is at full power.

The ventilation in the shoulders helps with that, too. We also love the features, such as the front breast pockets and a hidden zippered pocket. Either shirt is an easy choice to throw in your safari bag.

What To Look For in A Safari Shirt

Durability

African elements can be tough on women’s safari clothing, so choose good quality clothing made from robust fabrics with intelligent design and double stitching. Avoid fast fashion companies such as H&M, Zara, and Forever21.

Material

Look for lightweight, synthetic, quick-dry clothing made from recycled nylon or sustainable materials such as hemp, wool, or linen. Avoid rayon and opt for organic cotton if possible. You’re on a trip to explore the wonders of nature, and safari shirts shouldn’t negatively impact the environment.

Versatility

You’ll want to pack light. The days are often busy, so multiple wardrobe changes aren’t really in the mix. Solid clothes that are casual yet stylish enough to wear to dinner in a lodge over a five-course meal.

Versatility can include the right material, fit, and functionality. For example, a good long sleeve shirt can keep you warm in the morning but cool during the day in a way that short-sleeve or tee shirts fail.

Practicality

Pockets are essential for storing lip balm, sunscreen, or binoculars. Choose comfortable and practical clothes. You aren’t walking the runways of Paris but spending time in the bush. Care about your look, but not too much.

Safari Shirt Color Choice

Safari clothes should blend in with the environment. You should wear beige, green, and brown colored clothes. They are the staple colors of safari wear because they blend into the environment and can provide a better game-viewing experience.

Wearing bright colors such as red is said to scare off the safari animals and make you stand out. This may or may not be true. Only the animals know for sure. Of course, the Maasai Warriors in Kenya and Tanzania have been wearing red for centuries!

That said, neutral colors do a great job of hiding dirt and dust, which will be plenty on a drive or a walk through the bush. White clothes aren’t going to stay white very long, and dark colors are believed to attract tsetse flies. Trust us; you do not want to become familiar with tsetse flies!

For example, when gorilla trekking, wearing long sleeves and greens is advised. When on foot, wearing colors that blend well into the environment and a good pair of safari boots is always advised.

We love greens, beige, and khaki just as much as the next wannabe, Merryl Streep, in Out of Africa. However, you will spend a lot of time in a car while on game drives in Africa. Wearing these colors helps you blend in and not bake your body under the hot African sun, but in the end, colors don’t matter.

Book A Safari in Africa

Traditionally if you wanted to book a safari, you’d have to go to a travel agent and have them book your safari for you. They suggested camps and lodges and then presented you with a large bill. Most of the industry still operates in this fashion.

However, Timbuktu is a new platform that allows you to select the lodges you’d like and see the daily pricing, which allows you to select the best itinerary for yourself. They will then contact the lodges and help you through booking your safari. Experts on staff can also provide suggestions and arrange the little details like a travel agent.

See Our Other Helpful Safari Packing Posts

• How to Pick a Great Safari Hat and Protect from the Sun
• The Best Safari Boots For Bush Walks
• The Africa Packing List Items You’ll Want to Have
• The 11 Best Binoculars for a Safari in Africa
• The Ideal Women’s Safari Clothing Checklist
• Africa’s Best Safari Animals + Where to See Them
• Best Camera For Safari: What Camera Is Best For You?
• The Best Safari Vests to Take to Africa
• The 15 Best Safari Shorts for Men and Women
• The Best Safari Boots For Bush Walks Reviewed

I want to be comfortable and protected in the bush, so smart clothing choices are essential. A few versatile and practical items are all you need to style the perfect safari outfit. This can even be done reasonably cheaply and still look stylish.

Here are my favorite items for making the perfect safari outfit, from safari dresses to safari pants. For ideas on men’s safari outfits, head to our other post.

Safari Outfit Ideas

Here are some examples of what clothes I recommend you pack for a safari. I’ll break down all these categories with suggestions to help you craft the perfect safari outfit.

• Tops
• Pants
• Shorts
• Dresses
• Swimsuit

• Jackets
• Footwear
• Hat
• Bags
• Accessories

Safari Shirts

I recommend you pack at least a few safari shirts for your trip. Ensure at least one is a long-sleeved shirt, as it protects against pesky mosquitos (malaria). A technical synthetic shirt can look excellent and practical. Cotton gets dirty fast and weighs more, so go with synthetics or wool unless you like stinky/oily clothes. You hear the word layers a lot, but the vast majority of the days are very hot. Many arid climates are famous for safaris, and you can see pretty cool evenings and mornings.

Everlane Linen Shirt

MSRP – $85 | Material – Linen

I like to pack a technical long-sleeve shirt for a safari, but it’s tough to beat a classic shirt from a classic material like linen. It looks and feels excellent; there is no better summer shirt. Best of all, the material remains practical as the linen has anti-microbial properties and fights against odor.

Pair a linen shirt with sandals, shorts, chinos, jeans, or boots. It will always work. Linen shirts are versatile clothing that looks good for both sexes and works at the beach, museum, archaeological site, or safari. It’s a classic style for women’s safari clothes.

It’s tough to find decent linen shirts online, but I love the quality and value of Everlane’s linen shirts. You can often score a deal, so if you stain or snag the shirt, it won’t end the world. Amazon makes some cheap linen shirts, but like most things from the company, they’re poor quality.

Columbia Tamiami II

MSRP: $50 | Material: Ripstop Polyester

The Columbia Tamiami II Shirt is a great safari shirt with various features for a comfortable outdoor experience. With its blend of Omni-Wick moisture management and antimicrobial treatment, this shirt is perfect for hot and humid climates, actively breathing and wicking away moisture for fast evaporation.

The vented back panels and front pockets provide additional ventilation, making it a comfortable choice for long days out in the sun. It provides reliable UV protection with its Omni-Shade UPF 40. The roll-up sleeves are thoughtful design features that add to the shirt’s versatility. I also appreciate that women get practical clothing with five pockets.

While this shirt’s loose cut and outdoor style may not appeal to everyone, its practical features make it an excellent option for those seeking an affordable, well-designed safari shirt. It’s not the most stylish shirt in the world, but for around $50, it’s an excellent value.

Unbound Merino Wool V-Neck

MSRP – $85 | Material – Merino Wool

Pair a t-shirt with great pants and boots for an effortless safari look. Our favorite women’s t-shirt for safari and travel is the Unbound Wool V-neck. A merino wool shirt is a worthy investment and one of the best travel clothes for any trip. Despite the price, we’ve already transitioned much of our wardrobe to the material. Wools shirts stay fresh longer and do an excellent job at temperature management. Best of all, the heavier fabric looks better.

Cotton shirts often take one or two wears to feel oily and heavy, while wool shirts last for days. I’ve tested a lot of wool shirts out, and my favorite for travel so far is from Unbound Merino. Their shirts are a perfect weight, and the material is soft and durable. I prefer their v-neck cut for a slightly more feminine shape.

Tank Top

When thinking about what to wear on safari, a few comfortable tank tops and shirts are a must-have, whether for game drives or downtime! They’re perfect for the hot Africa day (which you will have!) and can be worn under a blouse or alone with a skirt or capris. It’s always a good idea to pack solid colors that can pair with everything.

We recommend you pick up new ones if they’re a little old before your trip. That way, they look fresh and aren’t pilling. The ones in some of these photos are just simple ones off Amazon and super comfortable.

Safari Vest For Women

A vest is a must-have item for layering on a safari. I always bring at least one vest on my trips to Africa as it’s a fantastic accessory, and more pockets never hurt! So, pack a vest for your next safari and add a touch of sophistication to your wardrobe! It’s one of the best style accessories for a safari outfit.

Orvis Pack and Go Vest

MSRP – $129 | Material -Recycled Polyester

Orvis designs some of our favorite items for stylish outdoor wear — perfect for safari wear. The vest’s weight has a nice balance. It can be worn independently in warm weather or as an outer layer for cooler days.

It’s pretty lightweight and can fold down into an included stuff sack. A waist cinch and multiple pockets also deliver the practicality and features I want in a vest. As a bonus, the polyester material used is Bluesign® certified and dries out quickly.

Safari Pants

Regarding safari outfits for women, pants are a crucial component. Although I typically avoid wearing pants in hot weather, they feel more appropriate on safari. Not only do they offer better protection against insects, but they also provide coverage against the elements. I suggest packing at least two pairs of safari pants for a typical trip, to avoid doing laundry.

I’ve had the KUHL Freeflex pants for three years without issue. It’s almost impossible to stain them, and they are water-resistant. Plus, they roll up into capris when it’s hot. They look pretty decent, too, especially when you pair them with a linen shirt.

KUHL Freeflex Pants

MSRP – $109 | Material – Enduro Fabric / Freeflex

Kuhl’s ENDURO blend fabric in their Freeflex Roll-Up pants is a testament to their commitment to quality and durability. I prefer the comfort of lightweight synthetic pants as most safaris occur in hot weather. These safari pants are lightweight and super comfortable. For outdoor pants, these are surprisingly comfortable.

Not only does the fabric feel soft against the skin, but it has also proven to be resistant to wear and tear after repeated use. The double-stitching and metal buttons are just a few of the high-end details that set these pants apart. The Freeflex Roll-Up pants convert to capris and feature six functional pockets and an internal drawstring. It all makes the perfect combination for women who want practicality and comfort.

REI Co-op Trailsmith Pants

MSRP – $69 | Material – Cotton/Poly

The REI Co-op Trailsmith Pants are the ultimate choice for safari pants that combine style, comfort, and durability. I love that REI took the traditional style of outdoor wear and made these joggers with cuffed ankles. It makes for cute and super functional pants.

With a blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex fabric, these pants wick away moisture and stretch to provide a comfortable fit. The double-layer fabric reinforcements at the knees and thighs offer added durability, making these pants ideal for outdoor adventures.

For added convenience, these pants feature a range of pockets, including jeans-style coin, hand, and back pockets, a drop-in tool pocket at the side, and a pencil pocket at the thigh. It adds a cool utilitarian look to the joggers, and they’re super functional, too! I love these pants!

Safari Shorts

It gets HOT in Africa, especially in the middle of the day. I recommend bringing at least one pair of safari shorts to stay cool – plus, they look great and will add to your women’s safari outfit. I prefer a nice pair of shorts that are practical yet stylish.

I suggest pants as protection against mosquitos, but they usually come out in the evenings and at night. I wear shorts for morning game drives and daytime activities. When it comes to afternoons and sundowners, I switch to pants.

prAna Women’s Elle Shorts

MSRP – $59 | Material – Nylon/Elastane

The prAna Elle Shorts are ideal for women seeking comfort and versatility on their safari adventure. The shorts blend organic cotton and spandex for excellent breathability and stretch. The result is a super comfortable pair of shorts that look great. As prAna generally strives for sustainable materials, the cotton is Fair Trade Certified and organic.

The Elle Shorts also offer stylish design features such as detail stitching at the front waistband, seaming at the front legs, and side seam slit detail. The shorts also feature front and back patch pockets with edge bands, making them a functional and fashionable choice for safari. With a mid-rise, fitted design and available in 3″ and 5″ inseam options, the prAna Elle Shorts are the perfect addition to any adventurous woman’s wardrobe.

The North Face Aphrodite Motion Shorts

MSRP – $45 | Material – Nylon/Elastane

The North Face Aphrodite Motion Shorts are perfect for safaris and other adventures. They’re made with a soft herringbone fabric that stretches for mobility and has water-repellent, sweat-wicking, and sun-protecting properties.

The shorts come in various colors, including khaki, and have a comfortable waistband, hand pockets, and a secure zip pocket. The shorts are also adjustable thanks to a stretch drawcord. Get ready for any outdoor adventure with these shorts!

Lululemon Cinchable Waist Shorts

Some of my favorite safari shorts for women area easily the Lululemon Cinchable Waist Shorts. They are in plenty safari photos as I wear them all the time. They are comfortable and look great in any setting.

Safari Dress

A safari dress or romper is excellent because they are a one-piece safari outfit for ladies. I like to bring a few dresses on safari as they’re comfortable. You’re not all that active on safari, so it’s not an issue. Plus, a dress is much cooler than pants. Small tip: rompers are super cute, but using the bathroom in the bush can be inconvenient. I’d stick to wearing them around camp or the lodge.

Scotch & Soda Safari Dress

MSRP – $165 | Material -Tencel

This fashion-forward safari dress from Scotch & Soda delivers everything I want in style. The classic off-white look, cuffs, and buttons down the front will feel right at home on a safari.

It’s made from a lightweight material called Tencel that is eco-friendly and operates in a closed-loop system. That soft material is light and breathes easily, so you’re comfortable and cool in the African sun. Be warned, this is a super popular item from the brand, and they regularly sell out, so we often recommend the Allegra K in replacement.

Patagonia Fleetwith Romper

MSRP – $129 | Material -Recycled Polyester/Spandex

I love Patagonia and its brand ethos around sustainability. The Patagonia Fleetwith Romper is Bluesign certified and super comfortable. While the Fleetwith is available as a dress, I prefer the romper best. It’s comfortable, fits just about anyone, and is practical when active or moving around. With the romper, you can easily feel comfortable on a bush flight, in the back of a game viewer, or on a bush walk.

The one-piece romper is made from a 91% recycled polyester/9% spandex blend, moves with your body, resists wrinkles, and quickly dries. The romper and dress make for excellent safari wear, and they are so versatile you may end up living in them at home. It’s a slam dunk in our books for safari clothes for women.

Swimsuit

I always carry a spare bathing suit, even on a safari. Plenty of great beach lodges make for a beautiful and relaxing end to a busy safari. That doesn’t include the many safari lodges and hotels with a pool. We’ve even taken impromptu dips in the various rivers and natural springs. Consider a swimsuit a necessity when it comes to safari clothes for women.

One of the best brands of swimsuits I’ve found is Londre. They make amazing swimsuits that fit as nicely as they look. Many of their pieces are stylish yet supportive. You are warned you will love them! You can read about the best hotels in Zanzibar or Diani Beach!

Women’s Safari Jacket

No matter what season you go on safari, you should at least bring a jacket (maybe even a down jacket) just in case it gets cold (which it probably will). However, I recommend a nice safari jacket if you want something more stylish for warmth and photos. The jackets below provide some warmth but are light enough for mild days. If it’s frigid, you’ll want something warmer.

Barbour Beadnell Jacket

MSRP – $385 | Material – Waxed Canvas

The Classic Beadnell jacket by Barbour is the one you’ll reach for every season of the year. Its waxed cotton exterior looks gorgeous and highly functional as it supplies wind and water resistance. A cozy tartan lining is soft against the skin and supplies light warmth in cool climates. It provides a lot of versatility as the jacket works for a wide range of destinations and daily life.

The jacket is also highly functional with two snap button bellow pockets, handwarmer pockets, and one interior breast pocket. We also appreciate the women’s fit that keeps a nice shape that is done with front and back panels. The one downside is it’s too warm for hot destinations, but it is ready to tackle any cool weather.

prAna Sancho Jacket

MSRP – $140 | Material – Cotton / Elastane

We love the prAna Sancho Jacket as it’s lovely and super comfortable. We love the organic cotton material and the excellent fit. It achieves its nice shape with a slightly boxy cut and an internal waist draw cord. It feels like an essential jacket as the rugged style is perfect in the bush or city. However, it’s not all rugged, as the touch of elastane gives the jacket excellent stretch and performance.

Safari Shoes

You’ll be sitting in a car for most of your African safari. I wear sandals often unless I go on a bush walk, where good shoes or boots are a must. You don’t want to have to run from a buffalo in the wrong shoes (joking)! I suggest bringing at least one pair of durable sandals and one good pair of safari boots.

Sandals

You won’t want to live in safari boots. Good sandals are great for comfort on long travel days and under the hot African sun, like in Namibia or Egypt. Like the locals, we spend 90% of our time in a pair of sandals when traveling around Africa. We only use our boots on bush walks, long hikes, and dirty streets.

Blundstone Chelsea Boots

MSRP – $210 | Material – Leather

Blundstones are our go-to travel boots and make excellent safari boots. This boot is stylish, functional, and practical for any travel adventure. While it’s not a “technical” boot, it handles moderate hikes and terrain impressively. Style is strong, with a wide range of leather finishes to match your taste.

As they use premium leather, they require some upkeep with leather treatment to ensure longevity and water resistance. The Blundstone Chelsea Boot is a solid go-to for any stylish and practical safari adventure. We love these boots!

Merrell Women’s Moab 3

MSRP – $120 | Material – Leather

If you’re in the market for hiking boots, the Merrell Moab 3 Boots are a popular choice. They’re made of leather, textile, and synthetic materials and are comfortable straight out of the box. Plus, with Merrell’s expertise in hiking boots, you can rest assured that your feet will be in good hands for long-distance walks.

I have owned several pairs of Moabs and can attest to their quality over the years. However, one thing to remember is that these boots are less specialized. While they are comfortable immediately, the soles are soft, making them less ideal for avid hikers. However, for everyone else, Merrell Moabs is a solid choice for comfortable safari boots that won’t disappoint.

Women’s Safari Hat

You don’t want your skin ruined from the harsh African sun; a hat is essential to every woman’s safari outfit. A safari hat is not just about fashion but functions as it keeps the sun off your face. Since the equator splits Africa, expect intense UV rays. No accessory is better suited or more fashionable than a safari hat—it feels right and never out of place.

Tilley LTM6 Airflo Hat

Tilley has long been famed for its sun protection hats. They’ve seen the world over and had more than a few adventures. It holds its shape, and the material has a stylish look. What sets Tilley apart is that they guarantee their hats for life against wear and tear.

Scala All-Season Crushable Hat

Oh my, I love this safari hat for women. The wool felt makes for an all-around great-looking stylish safari hat. The style is similar to a fedora with a very Western vibe. It looks great, and the price point isn’t bad, either.

The best part is that the material still allows you to crush the hat to fit inside your luggage for such a good-looking one. No one wants to wear an outdoor hat home on a 15-hour flight. It snaps right back into shape once you take it out of your bag!

Women’s Safari Bag

You’ll need a good safari bag to carry and pack all these safari clothes. If you’re going on safari, you may take a bush flight or two. I recommend packing light, as most small planes severely limit baggage weight. We have been on flights where we are only allowed 15 kg a person, and some flights allow 25 kg. Make sure only to pack what you need.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag

The Patagonia Black Hole bag is a staple for adventure travel and one of the best safari bags. The bag can pack small when empty and easily fits in a suitcase. It was also easy to stuff and organize, thanks to the large U-shaped zipper and two mesh pockets on the top flap. It’s also super lightweight, an essential aspect of strict weight allowances on bush planes.

Nomatic Travel Bag

The Nomatic Travel Bag is a good travel bag for short trips. It’s a bag built around the premise of one-bag travel, with all the features you need for a seamless safari. However, all those features can make the bag a little clunky and difficult to pack effectively. The bag’s exterior tarpaulin material on the top panel provides water and abrasion resistance.

At 40L, the bag is best suited for 3-5 day one bag trips or can support a suitcase for extended journeys. Its sleek design and intelligent features make it an excellent fit for everyone, from business travelers to backpackers.

Safari Accessories

Smith Lowdown 2 Sunglasses

Polarized sunglasses help with contrast and spotting wildlife. The back of a game vehicle can be dusty. Much of East Africa sits on the equator, which means UV rays are much stronger, so eye protection is super important.

Smith Optics Lodown 2.0 makes excellent active sunglasses that look sharp enough to wear around a posh seaside town. For a more formal and stylish brand, we love Persol and Rayban for their timeless style.

Buff Headwear

We travel around with Buff Headwear, and they’re some of our favorite travel accessories that we’ve recommended a handful of times. They’re great for keeping sweat out of our eyes on a hike.

Or in dust out of your face when riding down a dusty road, which you’ll need on safari. They offer sun protection, can act as a scarf, and many other things. Buy one and fall in love with it.

Grayl GeoPress Purifier Water Bottle

It’s not advisable to drink tap water in most of Africa. We travel with a water bottle that purifies water for safe drinking water. Our favorite is the Grayl GeoPress Purifier bottle. It saves money, reduces plastic waste, and ensures our water is safe and free of viruses and other waterborne illnesses.

The Grayl bottle is not only practical but also innovative in design. A press-like system effectively filters out sediment, bacteria, and heavy metals, leaving only clean and safe water. Its wide-mouth top makes it easy to drink and fill, and its sleek design fits comfortably in any bag or backpack.

Nikon Monarch 5 8×42

A great safari accessory to have is a pair of safari binoculars. Nikon has long been a reputable name in binocular manufacturing, and Monarch 5 Binoculars are an excellent example.

The 42mm lens diameter allows for excellent low-light viewing, while the body is built for extreme use – sounds perfect for a safari.

General Tips On Packing for Safari

Here are a few things to remember before you go on a shopping spree for your safari outfit.

• Be sure to note what time of year you are traveling to Africa. The rainy season in Southern Africa varies significantly from the rainy season in Eastern Africa. A rain jacket is essential if you are traveling during the rainy season.
• I like to travel around Africa with clothes made from synthetic materials, linen or hemp, as they dry fast and fight stains. You’re often faced with very humid climates, and it’s easy for clothes to get funky.
• Dark shades of blue attract the dreaded tsetse fly, found throughout parts of Tanzania, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and other general pockets of Africa. So it’s best to try and avoid this color.
• You’ll be able to find local clothing in many villages on the side of the road. The most common wear is a type of Batik print for women. You’ve seen those vibrant women before! It’s Asian in origin, but it’s hugely popular throughout Sub-Saharan Africa and easy to find everywhere.
• If you need new shirts or pants, big cities are your best bet for Western-style clothing. You can find lovely gift shops outside a few tourist hot spots.
• You’ll always be able to find local women who will wash your clothes for you. For a small fee, they will hand wash, hang dry, and often iron your clothing for an affordable price. It’s a great way to support local families, as women can do the work at home. I highly recommend seeking them out. We do so by asking our accommodation staff for recommendations. Many times it was one of their close relatives who did it for us.
• Many high-end safari lodges will wash your clothes for free.
• Most safari lodges will have shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and bug spray, so there is no need to bring those items.

What To Look For in A Women’s Safari Outfit

Durability

African elements can be tough on women’s safari clothing, so choose good quality clothing made from robust fabrics with intelligent design and double stitching. Avoid fast fashion companies such as H&M, Zara, and Forever21.

Material

Look for lightweight, synthetic, quick-dry clothing from recycled nylon or sustainable materials such as hemp, wool, or linen. Avoid rayon and opt for organic cotton if possible. You’re on a trip to explore the wonders of nature. A safari outfit shouldn’t negatively impact the environment.

Versatility

Pack interchangeable clothes to avoid carrying a jumbo suitcase. One long skirt or dress, one pair of shorts, and two pairs of pants that go well with plain-colored shirts are great options.

Practicality

Pockets are essential for storing lip balm, sunscreen, or binoculars. Choose comfortable and practical clothes, and avoid black yoga pants with no pockets.

Color Choice & Camouflage

A safari outfit should blend in with the environment. You should wear beige, green, and brown colored clothes. They are the staple colors of safari wear because they blend into the environment and can provide a better game-viewing experience.

While wearing, bright colors such as red are said to scare off animals and make you stand out. This may or may not be true. Only the animals know for sure. Of course, the Maasai Warriors in Kenya and Tanzania have been wearing red for centuries!

That being said, neutral colors do a great job of hiding dirt and dust, which will be plenty of on a drive or walk through the bush. White clothes aren’t going to stay white very long, and dark colors are believed to attract tsetse flies. Trust us; you do not want to become familiar with tsetse flies! For example, wearing long pants and greens is advised when gorilla trekking. When on foot, wearing colors that blend well into the environment and a good pair of safari boots is always recommended.

We love greens, beige, and khaki just as much as the next wannabe, Merryl Streep, in Out of Africa. However, you will spend a lot of time in a car on game drives in Africa. Wearing these colors helps you blend in and not bake your body under the hot African sun, but in the end, colors don’t matter.

Book A Safari in Africa

Traditionally if you wanted to book a safari, you’d have to go to a travel agent and have them book it for you. However, Timbuktu is a new platform allowing you to select the lodges you’d like and see the pricing per day. You can choose the best itinerary for yourself. They will then contact the lodges and help you by booking your safari. Experts on staff can also provide suggestions and arrange the little details like a travel agent.

Despite loads of stylish safari gear, all the good safari hats serve a purpose. Anyone who’s spent time in the African sun can attest to the rays’ power, and a safari hat is the first line of defense from sun damage. I became obsessed with the idea of the perfect safari cap and found myself self-asking to try total strangers’ hats to find the perfect fit. With all this testing and searching, I made some headway (pun intended). After all that effort, my six-month mission to find the best hat money can buy was successful.

The Best Safari Hats

Tilley LTM6 Airflo Hat ($99)

Tilley has long been famed for its sun protection hats. They’ve seen the world over and have seen more than a few adventures. The Tilley LTM6 Airflo holds its shape, and the material has a stylish look. Tilley is set apart because they guarantee their hats for life against wear and tear.

A wide brim keeps the sun off your hat. What I love in addition to the guarantee are the features such as its ability to float in the water and a hidden pocket to store an I.D. or money. It has everything you could want in a great safari hat. Although the higher price point may deter some – keep in mind, that it has a lifetime guarantee.

Columbia Bora Bora Booney II ($30)

I talk about stylish hats, but this Columbia safari cap is the least attractive. However, this is the most practical and affordable safari hat out of our selection. For a synthetic floppy hat that you can stuff and crush anytime, it still looks pretty good.

The Bora Bora is made of nylon, is well-vented, packs well, and features UPF technology. Comfort is the strongest characteristic of this hat, as it keeps your head cool while sitting snuggly on your head. Unlike leather, which can be itchy, you’ll forget you’re even wearing this hat while in the bush. I love the built-in sweatband to keep moisture out of your eyes.

Outdoor Research Seattle Sombrero ($60)

The Seattle Sombrero is a hat designed to do it all. It will repel rain and then protect you from the sun. It’s durable, lightweight, and can even float should you drop it in the water. You can take it anywhere with you and stuff it in your suitcase without worrying that you will ruin the shape.

This safari hat will keep the sun off your face and dry in the inevitable African rainstorm. The Sombrero has a wide brim and waterproof GoreTex. It’s the most technology-packed safari hat on this list. It also floats in the water, which will come in handy if you decide to dip in one of the Zanzibar beaches or while white water rafting on the Nile River. A cinch strap in the headband allows a tight fit to keep the hat on your head in windy conditions.

Henschel Hats Aussie Breezer ($38)

This is one of those stylish hats that aren’t just great for safari, but for everyday wear and protection from the sun. It’s made of cotton and mesh, so it provides breathability and won’t have your whole head sweating out the day. It also has an adjustable chin strap, which will be helpful if your safari guide is hauling it to see a pack of wild dogs or some other fantastic safari animal.

Scala All-Season Crushable Hat ($59)

We love the Scala All-Season Crushable Hat. It’s made of wool felt and is an all-around great-looking olive green stylish safari hat. The style is similar to a fedora with a very Western vibe. It looks great, and the price point isn’t bad, either.

The best part about it is that for such a good-looking hat, the material still allows you to crush the hat to fit inside your luggage. Because no one likes to have to wear their hat home on a 15-hour flight. Once you take it out of your luggage, it snaps right back into shape!

Panama Jack Safari Hat ($39)

This hat may not be the classic safari hat, but it still looks great and serves its purpose. A leather hat may look good on safari, but once you get to the coastline of Africa, it may be time to put it away. The Panama Jack Hat can look great on the beach and in the bush. It’s probably one of the best all-around hats on this list, and its rugged cotton construction means you can stick it in your bag without fear of damaging it.

Filson Tin Packer Hat ($70)

The Tin Packer is a great go-to all-around safari hat for women and is the perfect item to add to your safari clothes for women. Filson makes a great product, which is no exception with the Tin Packer hat. It’s water-repellent and wear-resistant so it will last for many years.

Conner Hats Men’s Bounty Hunter ($46)

This is one of my favorite hats on the list, but it’s also one of the most expensive. The hat is rugged and stylish and a great sun hat for men. It is still convenient, being made out of sturdy organic cotton. You wouldn’t even guess the headwear is made out of cotton upon first look as it looks very high dollar.

A wide brim with a built-in wire that can be adjusted assures that it accomplishes the task of sun protection. The distressed cotton wins me over for looks and could fool some for leather. This is a great winner for those who don’t like to wear animal products but still want an awesome jungle hat.

Dorfman Hat Co. Weathered Outback Hat ($39)

This hat is a contender for the best safari hat on the list, according to user reviews. It’s a great-looking hat that is sturdy and offers plenty of protection. The wide brim will protect you from long days in the bush, and despite being black, the thick cotton material remains cool. The brim is shapeable and broad, so you can bend it exactly how you would like. I could try and sell you this hat, or I can let the reviews on Amazon do the talking.

Outback Trading Co. Kodiak Oilskin Hat ($50)

This is the perfect hat for those going into the Outback or the African bush. Like most of the hats on this list, it’s made of cotton. The cotton has been treated with oil making, meaning it is water-resistant. So, when you get caught in a thunderstorm, you don’t need to worry about the safety of your hat or getting uncomfortable. It’s a stylish hat and probably one of my favorites.

Our Favorite Features

Wide Brim

The primary reason for wearing a cap on safari is to protect from the sun while searching for wildlife in the African bush. Some of our favorite hats in this post have wide brims but have a large downside. Wide-brim hats are more cumbersome and difficult to travel with on airplanes. As a result, we still love a classic ball cap design that can still offer sun protection on the face, and they’re easy to pack a backpack or suitcase.

Waterproofing

Having a waterproof hat in the dry season may seem silly, but you’ll probably be sweating a lot. There is no point in buying a flimsy cotton hat that will only last a short while. We’ve been caught in rain showers while on safari in both South Luangwa and the Masai Mara without a hat, and it sucked.

Thick Headband

If you wear something on your head all day, making sure that it is comfortable is a no-brainer. Although safari pith helmets are world-famous for being the headwear of famous British explorers and look great in safari photos, they’re uncomfortable. Yes, we’ve tried them.

We find fashion hats to be the most guilty offenders of discomfort, as they have small headbands and less space for your head. Outdoor brands design hats with thick headbands and technical fabric that stretches with the head for a more comfortable fit.

Material

Leather, rubber, and synthetic all have advantages. What you pick for your hat depends on personal preference. I chose leather because it has the classic safari adventure feel and look—and with maintenance and care, it can last forever. However, leather is a very hot material and fails to soak up sweat or ventilate like its synthetic counterparts.

Style

What you wear on your head says a lot about you. I had my idea of what the perfect safari cap would look like, and I was set on finding the perfect fit.

Why You Need A Hat?

Unlike safari clothes or safari boots, we would say everyone needs a hat when on safari. Especially in East Africa! Most people coming on safari are from more Northern climates away from the equator and are unaware of the sun’s damage around Africa.  The sun near the center of the earth is intense and can leave you sunburned in a matter of minutes.

You spend a lot of time outside on a safari. As I said, we probably do not take sun protection seriously enough but meet anyone who has spent their days in Africa, and they all wear a hat, sunglasses, and long-sleeved breathable shirt. After spending a year traveling the continent, we can’t suggest a safari hat more and consider it an essential item to our Africa packing list.

On our first safari, I ended up paying for it with a nice sunburn that turned into a scab on my face because I didn’t think about sun protection too seriously, which cost me my face dearly. Do yourself a favor and invest in sun cream and a hat. At the very least, bring a baseball cap or cheap packable sun hat.  Safari attire often goes beyond style and cool vacation photos – it serves an important purpose.

Book A Safari in Africa

Traditionally if you wanted to book a safari, you’d have to go to a travel agent and have them book your safari for you. However, Timbuktu is a new platform that allows you to select the lodges you’d like and see the pricing to select the best itinerary for yourself. They will then contact the lodges and help you through booking your safari. Experts on staff can also provide suggestions and arrange the little details like a travel agent.

We have been on over 100 safaris and can’t recommend sturdy and quality gear enough. Why? If you go cheap on safari bags or safari clothes in Africa and something goes wrong, there is no replacement in the bush.

However, picking a safari bag that matches your style and comfort can be tricky with so many options. Don’t worry, though! We share all our favorites in various shapes, sizes, prices, and colors. Of course, you may already have an awesome safari duffel or soft-sided bag that does the job.

The Best Safari Bags

The North Face Base Camp Voyager Safari Duffel Bag

MSRP: $155 | Weight: 2lbs 13 oz. | Capacities: 62L, 42L, 32L

The North Face Base Camp Voyager is one of the most functional duffel bags for safari we’ve ever tested. It’s an update to the Base Camp Duffel Bag, and we can confidently say we love every charge they made to the classic duffel bag. It starts with a sustainable build as the bag is made with 100% recycled materials. Its outer material is a TPU polyester that is ultra-durable and water-resistant, so your stuff is well protected.

Strategically placed side handles and carry straps that double as a backpack make the bag easy to carry. While the interior of the bag has a roomy 62L of storage that is smartly organized. It has a mesh top pocket and an internal divider that can be customized for easy packing. An external shoe pocket is a great way to separate your safari boots from the rest of your luggage. A small stash pocket is also perfect for holding keys or small travel essentials.

The bag comes in three sizes 32L, 42L, and 62L. While we recommend the 62L for a safari as it has more room to pack for a week on the road, the two smaller sizes have a convenient laptop sleeve. The one big downside is the lack of a cross-body strap for a traditional duffel bag carry.

Patagonia Black Hole

MSRP: $169 | Weight: 2 lbs. 9.1 oz. | Capacities: 100L, 70L, 55L, 40L

Hop on any bush flight, and you’ll see this safari bag under the plane or at its rear. Patagonia’s Black Hole bags have taken over adventure travel and outdoor sports. It’s a slam dunk safari bag for us as it is waterproof, soft, and can swallow any clothes/gear.

Patagonia’s unique TPU film laminate polyester ripstop is stylish and durable. In recent years, they’ve also made the material 100% recyclable, an awesome eco-friendly step. While it’s unlikely your bag will face too much water on safari, the weatherproofing does translate well to dust protection for rides in the back of a safari truck.

The bag can pack small when empty, so sticking it in larger luggage is easy. Thanks to the large U-shaped zipper and two mesh pockets on the top flap, it is easy to stuff and organize. It’s also super lightweight, an important aspect we look for in our safari bags. You can choose four sizes, but we recommend the 55L as it’s large without being too cumbersome.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack

MSRP: $299 | Weight: 3 lbs.| Capacities: 20, 30L

The Everyday Backpack is our favorite daypack for safari, as the backpack works well for daily life and travel. We love the gear we have from Peak Design, and it’s all exceptionally high quality. Their Everyday Backpack provides accessibility, organization, and quality we’ve seen in no other backpack.

It starts with the top access, which uses a patented MagLatch technology that is pretty nifty and makes for quick access. Access is not limited to the top, as both sides can open for quick access to your bag. You can organize the bag’s interior via padded sleeves, similar to a camera bag. This is exceptionally helpful for photographers traveling with safari cameras.

The side pocket also has additional pockets and storage that make for easy organization. The tuckaway straps and integrated luggage carry system make it easy to slip on top of a roller suitcase for travel. A dedicated laptop sleeve for a tablet and documents makes it a great daypack. One big negative of this pack is the price, as the sizeable 30L version is shy of $300.

Filson Medium Rugged Twill Duffel Bag

MSRP: $575 | Capacities: 43L, 73L

Filson delivers beautiful products with attention to detail. The Medium Rugged Twill Duffel Bag makes for a gorgeous safari bag. Its unparalleled build quality assures us the bag should last a lifetime or, at the very least, a decade. Plus, it comes in three color styles to match any style.

Its build quality starts with an exceptional industrial-strength medium twill fabric waxed for water repellency. That material is complemented with Bridle Leather straps, accents, and handles. A final finish on the bag is the solid brass zippers. It’s an exceptionally luxurious safari bag with a price tag to match the quality.

A roomy interior has enough storage space, and two small internal side pockets work well for small essentials. Our only complaint would be for a better internal organization, which can be solved with packing cubes. Its 43L is enough for a savvy packer, or you can opt for the large version at 73L. Although, we prefer the 43L as we don’t trust airlines to check the 73L for international travel.

Herschel Supply Co. Novel Duffle Bag

MSRP: $99 | Weight: 2 lbs.| Capacities: 33, 42.5L

The Novel Duffel Bag is an excellent piece of soft-sided luggage for safari. At only 2 lbs, we love the weight savings this provides, making it far more manageable. The Herschel Duffel bag is 100% polyester and features its signature shoe compartment for easy and organized travel while keeping to a classic and simple style.

What I like about this bag is that it’s a great option for a safari and everyday life back home. Take it to the gym, to work, or overnight somewhere, and it doesn’t look out of the ordinary. It has extraordinary value when you add in the bag’s versatility. While it doesn’t match the quality of the Filson bag above, it has a similar style at a fraction of the price.

The big downside it the limited size options, at 42.5L and 32L. Its size makes the bag better suited for weekend trips or minimalist travelers. It would be tough to fit enough safari clothes and gear in the duffel bag for a two-week trip.

Samsonite Classic Leather Slim Safari Backpack

MSRP: $169 | Weight: 2 lbs. 8 oz. | Capacities: 21L

Samsonite makes good luggage, and its Classic Leather Slim Backpack is a winner as a safari bag. The leather style feels classic, but it has all the modern features we look for in a travel daypack. This includes easy access, tech organization, and a lightweight build.

Access to the compartments of the bag is a stand-out feature of the Samsonite’s smart sleeve design. This provides access to two compartments with an excellent organization for all your daily tech and travel needs. It can even accommodate two laptops.

A luggage pass-through also makes traveling easy with a roller bag and extends to regular use as a business trip backpack. The downside of the bag is it’s not weather resistant or meant for frequent adventure travel. It also lacks a sternum strap or hip belt for comfortable extended carry.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag

MSRP: $129 | Weight: 2 lbs. 10.2 oz. | Capacities: 50L, 71L, 95L, 132L, 150L

The North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag is an awesome adventure bag that works well for safari. The bag’s success comes from its excellent recycled PVC outer material and double stitching. The result is a durable, flexible, and weather-resistant duffel bag.

It’s a more basic version of the Voyager bag above, but its simple design gives you more storage space. The small size works as a carry-on and delivers a roomy 50 liters of packing space. With fewer moving parts and super durable outer material, the bag lives up to its reputation for being indestructible. The bag’s sizes indicate its tough reputation, with the largest size of 150L made for hauling heavy-duty expedition gear.

The downside is the material feels a tad stiffer than Patagonia’s Black Hole, but The North Face Base Camp is $40 cheaper. Similar to the Voyager above, the Base Camp does not come with a cross-body shoulder strap, but instead, backpack carry straps. Regardless, It’s everything we look for in an excellent safari bag.

S-ZONE Large Canvas Duffel bag

MSRP: $96 | Weight: 4lbs 7 oz. | Capacities: 60L

We love the style and practicality of the S-ZONE Large Canvas Duffel Bag for safari. It’s another canvas bag we recommend despite the fact they are prone to staining. The advantage of this bag is its affordability for a bag with leather accents. So it still looks great, but without too much stress, it allows damage risk.

It’s a good-looking bag for the price, and it comes in various colors such as grey, khaki, black, and coffee. The roomy 60L interior should provide plenty of space for the average safari trip, and its dimensions remain carry-on compliant. The downside of the bag is the somewhat subpar quality and the heavyweight at 4.5 lbs. This cuts into your allocated luggage allowances on bush flights.

Herschel Supply Co. Little America Eco Pack

MSRP: $120 | Weight: 2 lbs. 3.2 oz. | Capacities: 25L

You’ve seen this daypack before. Herschel makes the Little America Eco Pack, drawing inspiration from mountaineering bags back in the day. The classic look and simple design make it a perfect backpack for safari.

No, this isn’t a heavy-duty travel daypack meant for the African Bush, but with a great look and affordable price, we love the bag. However, the polyester exterior also performs well at water repellency and durability. It’s a bag that holds up well to regular daily use.

We also appreciate features like the drawstring top, laptop sleeve, and dual water bottle pockets. Its roomy interior doesn’t have much in the form of organization, but it does have a dedicated 15″ laptop sleeve. It’s an excellent choice for a more affordable daypack for travel and safari.

Polare Weekender Duffel Bag

MSRP: $210 | Weight: 5 lbs | Capacities: 40L

If you’re looking for a traditional leather duffel bag that is affordable, we recommend the Polare Weekender Duffel Bag. The bag is stylish and durable and features thick, full-grain leather. Despite the bag’s price, it is a high-quality bag that looks great in person. We’re genuinely impressed. Granted, it’s not on the level of Filson quality.

The size feels best suited for short weekend trips or as an additional carry-on bag for extended trips. When it comes down to logistics, leather is not the most practical safari bag material. It’s heavier and prone to damage, such as scratches and stains. We recommend the bags at the top of the article, such as The North Face Voyager and Patagonia Black Hole. However, we still love the Polare Weekender because it’s such a stylish bag at a great price.

Other Great Safari Bags!

• Cotopaxi Uyuni 46L Duffel Bag
• Cotopaxi Allpa Duffel Bag
• Osprey Farpoint & Osprey Fairview Backpacks
• REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled Duffel Bag
• 48 Hour Tin Cloth Duffel Bag
• Filson Ripstop Nylon Pullman Bag
• Filson Large Dry Duffel Bag
• Filson Oil Finish Excursion Bag

Table Of The Best Safari Bags

What Makes a Great Safari Bag?

Size

You’ll want to make sure that your safari bag or safari backpack adheres to the size restrictions enforced on small bush and charter flights. Many African lodges are remote, so you may need to hop on a bush flight to start your safari.

Most bush flights allow a maximum of 30 kg on the plane. If taking a chartered plane, you will most likely be flying on a Cessna 206, Cessna 210, Cessna Caravans, or Twin Otters, and these planes get full and cramped fast!

Shape

Regarding airline restrictions, many small aircraft carriers only allow you to have soft-sided bags as your safari luggage. As mentioned, these planes are small, so they have to maneuver and maybe even squash your bag onto the plane.

That’s why they impose harsh safari luggage restrictions. This isn’t doable with a hard shell piece of luggage, and that is why you will need a soft travel bag for a safari.

Quality

You’ll want to make sure you have a safari travel bag that can take all that bush can throw at it. A good rugged bag is essential while dealing with dirt, dust, elephants (not really), and every other African element. Having rock-solid construction while still being soft and bendable to adhere to the strict African planes is essential.

Comfort

Good safari luggage means comfort. Everything from the main compartment straps, handles, and zippers should be built to keep you traveling comfortably. If it’s hard to carry, then you’re going to hate the bag.

Style

You want your luggage for a safari to look great. All these safari bags on this list are beautifully designed inside and out. It’s not the most crucial criterion for a great safari bag, but it can easily be the tiebreaker.

Book A Safari in Africa

Traditionally, if you wanted to book a safari, you’d have to go to a travel agent and have them book it. They suggest camps and lodges, then present you with a hefty bill. Most of the industry still operates in this fashion.

However, Timbuktu is a new platform that allows you to select the lodges you’d like, see the pricing per day, and then select the best itinerary for yourself. They will then contact the lodges and help you through booking your safari. Experts on staff can also provide suggestions and arrange the little details like a travel agent. Safari Bookings is another platform that offers slightly cheaper safari options that are fantastic.

What to Wear for an African Safari

Packing the right safari clothes is always a good idea, but it’s never essential because you can wear whatever you want. We also go in-depth on the best women’s safari clothes!

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If you’ll be doing bush walks while on your safari, a lightweight safari jacket will be much more practical than a heavy-duty one. However, consider a decently warm safari jacket if traveling at high elevations or during Africa’s winter when nights get cool.

Whatever you pack in your safari bag, you should consider the location, time of year, and activity level. Remember that you only need one good safari jacket in your luggage, and hopefully, this list will help you narrow down your choices.

Best Safari Jackets for Women

Barbour Beadnell Jacket

The Classic Beadnell jacket by Barbour is the one you’ll reach for every season of the year. Its waxed cotton exterior looks gorgeous and highly functional as it supplies wind and water resistance.

A cozy tartan lining is soft against the skin and supplies warmth in cool climates. It provides a lot of versatility as the jacket works for a wide range of destinations and daily life. We could wear this jacket in Scotland or the Masai Mara. The jacket is also highly functional with two snap button bellow pockets, handwarmer pockets, and one interior breast pocket.

We appreciate the women’s fit that keeps an excellent shape that is done with front and back panels. The one downside is it’s too warm for hot destinations, but it is ready to tackle any cool weather. It’s an expensive jacket, but we feel it’s a worthy investment that will last a lifetime.

Always Effortless Jacket

Experience the epitome of versatile style and functionality with this safari jacket from Lululemon, expertly crafted for those who are always on the go – on or off safari. This remarkable jacket embodies the spirit of adventure and is designed to seamlessly accompany you through every urban exploration and outdoor escapade.

The water-repellent Glyde fabric not only shields from unexpected African drizzles but adds a water-repellent sophistication on the back. With its classic fit and hip-length design, the jacket strikes the perfect balance between fashion and practicality – great for photos in the bush and keeping warm in the early morning!

The downside is that it’s a jacket for style and not the most durable on this list. It’s not going to protect you from hard weather or supply much warmth if you need it. However, we love that it’s machine washable, so you won’t have to run it to the dry cleaner when it gets dusty on safari.

prAna Sancho Jacket

We love the prAna Sancho Jacket as it’s lovely and super comfortable. It has a great organic cotton material and fits the body well. It achieves its excellent shape with a slightly boxy cut and an internal waist draw cord.

The roomy cut also means it’s easy to add a layer under the jacket to stay warm. It’s a lightweight jacket with little insulation, which is great for a safari jacket. Cool-weather feels perfect with this jacket, which can still add a touch of style in warmer weather.

It feels like an essential jacket as the rugged style is perfect in the bush or city. However, it’s not all rugged, as the touch of elastane gives the jacket excellent stretch and performance. Like any safari jacket, we love the two interior and four exterior pockets.

Columbia Chatfield Jacket

The Columbia Lillian Ridge Jacket is a cute mid-thigh safari jacket. It provides wind and water resistance with its nylon and polyester blend fabric. It’s a stylish rain jacket that works for many destinations and would feel right at home on safari or the Pacific Northwest. Several color options suit any taste, but we love the “Ancient Fossil” color.

The fit is very complimenting as it has an adjustable drawcord at the waist for a feminine shape. Two other nice features are the spacious hand pockets with button closures and a spacious hood for protection from the rain. The nylon blend provides reliable waterproofing, making the jacket a little clammy. It’s also worth noting that nylon does not look as classic or stylish as a natural fabric like cotton.

However, the synthetic material makes the jacket wonderfully lightweight and easy to stash in a safari bag. It’s a stylish rain jacket for an affordable price, but there are better packable rain jackets on the market for travel — just not safari style. We recommend the jacket for wet weather safaris like gorilla trekking, Amazon cruises, or Borneo.

Everlane Herringbone Jacket

The Organic Cotton Herringbone Jacket boasts a relaxed fit that prioritizes comfort while making a bold safari fashion statement. Crafted from 100% organic cotton twill, this jacket is lightweight yet durable.

It features a double-breasted button closure, utility twin needle topstitching, and welt and flap front pockets for convenience. The boxy fit is excellent for style, but it’s not great for moving with your body. We prefer the comfort and fit of many of the jackets above. The jacket’s spacious cut is easy to layer and ideal for staying warm in cooler temperatures.

Best Safari Jackets for Men

Orvis Heritage Field Jacket

The Orvis Heritage Field jacket is one of the company’s best-selling products and makes for a tremendous safari jacket. There is a lot to love about the jacket, but it starts with the dry-waxed cotton canvas. It provides excellent protection from the elements.

The rugged protection makes it highly versatile, as it’s tough enough to resist thick brushes and stylish enough to wear around town. The jacket is also highly functional with two snap button bellow pockets, handwarmer pockets, and one interior breast pocket.

Gusseted underarm panels provide ventilation, and a bi-swing jacket allows the jacket to move with the body. While the jacket looks great the roomy fit and subtle design choices ensure it’s ready to tackle challenging work. Quality is superb; compared to competitors, it’s an excellent value.

Wantdo Cotton Safari Jacket

The Wantdo Cotton cotton-shell safari jacket is a stylish and affordable option for men. It’s a sharp-looking jacket with a military-style collar and cut. It’s a varsity windbreaker jacket for men that’s well suited for safari as it’s lightweight and practical. With many pockets, it has everything a man needs for essentials on safari.

Its cotton exterior material and craftmanship are lacking, but it’s so affordable we can’t help but recommend the jacket. It even features more pockets than most jackets so that it can carry a wide variety of essentials like sunblock or lip balm.

Filson Tin Cloth Ranch Jacket

If you want a no-frills shell jacket designed to be used and abused, this is the jacket. Filson’s workwear has faithfully served men for decades due to its exceptional quality. A staple of their line is the Filson Tin Cloth Work Jacket which has been in circulation since the 1930s. The rugged jacket displays a classic style that feels appropriate on city streets or a ranch.

Oil-finished canvas provides reliable protection and ages gracefully as a jacket that remains in your wardrobe for years. Most importantly, the coat can easily fight a chill and break the wind thanks to the heavy material. Its roots are tied with loggers, ranchers, and outdoorsmen, so it features a casual cut for work and layers. The cut can be negative or positive, depending on your needs. It’s a great jacket for any wild adventure you may find.

Levi’s Sherpa Trucker Jacket

If comfort and classic style are what you’re after, you can beat Levi’s Sherpa Trucker Jacket. The denim jacket has been a style icon for decades and is always among the best men’s lightweight jackets. A cozy interior that is fleece and quilted flannel provides plenty of warmth.

While the exterior features various fabric choices, the classic is denim. Levi’s knows how to construct high-quality denim that does not stretch but will mold to the body. Finding a jacket that will only fit better with time is tough. Fit is slim, and it doesn’t feel overly boxy or loose despite the fleece and wide collar style.

Value is one of the greatest strengths of the jacket. Its quality, warmth, and comfort are near impossible to beat. This jacket will forever remain a staple in my wardrobe.

Everlane The Bomber Jacket

Everlane’s The Bomber Jacket is a modern version of a classic flight jacket. It’s a stylish jacket that is perfect for mild weather. We love the clean lines and timeless design that make it ideal for any setting or destination. While it’s not the classic safari style, its timeless design still works well.

The jacket uses an excellent lightweight fabric that works well in mild weather. We find the material provides a nice balance of comfort and durability. The jacket fits across the body wonderfully. It features a classic bomber design with ribbed cuffs, a collar, a hem, a full-zip front, and two front pockets.

We love that you can wear the jacket up or down to suit any occasion. It just feels like a tremendously versatile jacket. The khaki color is a great complement to any modern safari outfit.

Elements of a Good Safari Jacket

There are several critical elements to look at with each piece of safari clothing. While you may picture yourself as an adventure seeker, remember that you are a guest, and your safari guide will handle the nitty-gritty.

Unless you’re driving across Africa like us, you’ll be safe. The clothes you pack should be for comfort, not some rugged adventure. If it doesn’t feel comfortable, you may leave it at home.

What To Look For in Safari Clothes

Durability

African elements can be tough on women’s safari clothing, so choose good quality clothing made from robust fabrics with intelligent design and double stitching. Avoid fast fashion companies such as H&M, Zara, and Forever21.

Material

Look for lightweight, synthetic, quick-dry clothing from recycled nylon or sustainable materials such as hemp, wool, or linen. Avoid rayon and opt for organic cotton if possible. You’re on a trip to explore the wonders of nature. A safari outfit shouldn’t negatively impact the environment.

Versatility

Pack interchangeable clothes to avoid carrying a jumbo suitcase. One long skirt or dress, one pair of shorts, and two pairs of pants that go well with plain-colored shirts are great options.

Practicality

Pockets are essential for storing lip balm, sunscreen, or binoculars. Choose comfortable and practical clothes, and avoid black yoga pants with no pockets.

Color Choice & Camouflage

A safari outfit should blend in with the environment. You should wear beige, green, and brown colored clothes. They are the staple colors of safari wear because they blend into the environment and can provide a better game-viewing experience.

While wearing, bright colors such as red are said to scare off animals and make you stand out. This may or may not be true. Only the animals know for sure. Of course, the Maasai Warriors in Kenya and Tanzania have been wearing red for centuries!

That being said, neutral colors do a great job of hiding dirt and dust, which will be plenty on a drive or walk through the bush. White clothes aren’t going to stay white very long, and dark colors are believed to attract tsetse flies. Trust us; you do not want to become familiar with tsetse flies!

For example, wearing long pants and greens is advised when gorilla trekking. When on foot, wearing colors that blend well into the environment and a good pair of safari boots is always recommended.

We love greens, beige, and khaki just as much as the next wannabe Merryl Streep in Out of Africa. However, you will spend a lot of time in a car on game drives in Africa. Wearing these colors helps you blend in and not bake your body under the hot African sun, but in the end, colors don’t matter.

Tips On Safari Clothes

• First and foremost, you do not have to wear special safari clothes. Most time on safari is spent in a vehicle where clothes choice does not matter much.
• Don’t wear animal prints or some ridiculous getup. You’re not bushwacking through the African jungle. This isn’t Jumanji. You’ll spend most of your time in the back of a vehicle. So, wear comfortable clothes that will not stain by dirt, offer sun protection, and are comfortable from the heat or cold.
• Mind the weather. It can get cold in the back of a game vehicle in Africa early morning or at night. Make sure to pack a nice jacket. I didn’t recommend any here – anything that breaks the wind should do.
• DO NOT wear blue in Eastern Africa. Blue attracts the Tsetse fly, which is not a myth.
• Don’t overpack. You only need a handful of safari shirts and safari pants. You are in the African bush. There is no need for multiple wardrobe changes. However, it goes without saying to always pack ample underwear and socks.
• Keep it relaxed. Even at five-star lodges in Africa, things are still casual.
• Good sunglasses will save your eyes from staring at landscapes all day.
• Make sure to pack in layers. It will go from cold in the morning to hot at night and then back to evening time.
• Bring a light rain jacket, depending on the season. Most Safari companies and lodges come prepared in this aspect and will provide their guests with nice thick ponchos, but if you’re doing it on your don’t forget a rain jacket.
• Pockets. We love clothing with pockets to carry sunblock, chapstick, flashlight, camera, or binoculars. It’s better than having to juggle around a bag. We already have our safari cameras to contend with in the back of a game viewer.

Book A Safari in Africa

Traditionally if you wanted to book a safari, you’d have to go to a travel agent and have them book it for you. They suggest camps and lodges, then present you with a hefty bill. Most of the industry still operates in this fashion.

However, Timbuktu is a new platform allowing you to select the lodges you’d like and see the pricing per day. You can choose the best itinerary for yourself. They will then contact the lodges and help you by booking your safari. Experts on staff can also provide suggestions and arrange the little details much like a travel agent.

I love wearing dresses while traveling in Africa. First, African women are so beautiful; many dress their best always, so it felt nice for me to dress up and put in the effort. Second, they look fabulous in photos. And third, they can be light and airy under the hot African sun.

Below I share a collection of my favorite safari dresses and rompers. Either one will add plenty of style to your safari outfit and wardrobe. One thing to note is that there is one significant disadvantage to a romper: bathroom breaks in the bush. Anyone who has worn a romper knows it can be an exciting experience, especially if you don’t have the privacy of a bathroom.

Best Safari Dresses & Jumpsuits For Africa

Patagonia Fleetwith Romper

MSRP – $129 | Material -Recycled Polyester/Spandex

I love Patagonia and its brand ethos around sustainability. The Patagonia Fleetwith Romper is Bluesign certified and super comfortable. While the Fleetwith is available as a dress, I prefer the romper best. It’s just so functional, comfortable, and cute!

The one-piece romper is made from a 91% recycled polyester/9% spandex blend, moves with your body, resists wrinkles, and quickly dries. The romper and dress make for great safari wear, and they are so versatile you may end up living in them at home.

Scotch & Soda Safari Dress

MSRP – $165 | Material -Tencel

This fashion-forward safari dress from Scotch & Soda delivers everything I want in style. The classic off-white look, cuffs, and buttons down the front will feel right at home on a safari.

It’s made from a lightweight material called Tencel that is eco-friendly and operates in a closed-loop system. That soft material is light and breathes easily, so you’re comfortable and cool in the African sun. Be warned, this is a super popular item from the brand, and they regularly sell out. If it’s sold out, these Allegra dresses look similar and are super cute!

Outerknown S.E.A. Suit

MSRP – $175 | Material – Cotton/Linen

Finding a more perfect jumpsuit than the Outerknown S.E.A. Suit for travel, safari, and life is tough. The fit, material, and colors are perfect! It all comes down to the quality of cotton and linen blend material.

The S.E.A. stands for Social and Environmental Accountability, as the jumpsuit uses sustainable materials. Organic cotton and buttons made from tagua palm nuts make the Outerknown S.E.A. a winner. We prefer sustainable products when we’re out enjoying nature.

Kuhl Vantage Dress

MSRP – $85 | Material – Polyester/Spandex

The Kühl Vantage Dress is super casual, comfortable, and practical. It features lightweight fabric that is soft and wicks away moisture. A polyester and spandex blend allows the fabric to stretch in four ways to move comfortably with your body.

Synthetic materials also allow the technical dress to resist odors, stains, and wrinkles. Yet it remains super lightweight and comfortable in warm weather. Best of all, the drawcord and cut make the dress flattering for various body types. The green color is also an excellent choice for safari!

prAna Railay Dress

MSRP – $99 | Material – Recycled Polyester/Elastane

Another technical dress with smart fabric keeps you cool and comfortable in the bush. As much as we love the style of natural materials, synthetics do a much better job in the heat. The Railay Dress is ultra-lightweight and super breathable. Similar to the Kuhl Vantage, it resists odors, stains, and wrinkles. Also, the fit and elastic waistband allows the dress to move comfortably with your body.

It’s pretty cute and comfortable but feels a little more on the mature end of safari dresses. I love that it features two hemline pockets and one secure zippered pocket. The Railay is a great safari dress that feels super functional.

Outerknown Blanket Shirt Dress

Outerknown’s Blanket Shirt Dress is super comfy. The casual dress shirt is highly versatile and can be worn in various ways for different occasions and climates. It’s a great light coat, a warm dress, and an oversized shirt.

It feels like being wrapped in a blanket, but it looks far better! The shirt dress has some soft eco-friendly credentials, too, with its organic cotton twill and buttons made from nuts. This will become a staple in your wardrobe outside of any safari.

Rhythm Linen Short Sleeve Shirt Dress

MSRP – $64 | Material – Linen/Cotton

Lulus is my go-to site for cute affordable dresses of decent quality. They are a few steps above the cheaper fast fashion brands like H&M or Zara. However, they still have a wide range of clothing and keep up with modern fashion trends.

I love this Linen Short Sleeve Shirt Dress for a relaxed style that blends well at the beach or on safari. The linen and cotton blend feels soft and lightweight, but it’s not see-through, so it can be worn as a dress or cover-up. It’s a surprisingly versatile piece of clothing and affordable too.

Free People Oasis Midi Dress

This simple midi dress from Free People is perfect for a lovely evening or a dressier day on safari. It’s not quite as practical as some options above, but not every day involves adventuring through the bush.

The loose fit and adjustable bustline make it comfortable and capable of fitting various body types. Above all, the cotton material is soft and will hold up reasonably well to travel. It’s not the dress you can wear every day on safari, but we love it nonetheless.

Banana Republic Savannah Midi Shirt Dress

Banana Republic’s Savannah Midi Shirt Dress is a modern take on a classic dress style. The dress is 100% cotton so it’s not technical, but the cotton does provide durability so it should be a staple in your wardrobe for years to come.

The best part about this safari dress is that it’s not just a one-time wear for vacation. You can easily style this dress for the office and daily wear back home. The look it gives is timeless and chic.

Rhythm Verona Sage Green Drawstring Wide-Leg Jumpsuit

We love the Rhythm Verona Jumpsuit for a super cute and casual look that works on safari, the beach, or any warm summer day. It can easily be worn with a tank, bando, or bikini. Plus, the cotton and linen blend fabric handles the heat well and is super comfy. A drawstring around the waist and the adjustable tank straps allows you to tailor the fit and style. We also love anything with pockets for safari as this has two generous hip pockets.

Complete The Look With A Safari Hat

You don’t want your skin ruined from the harsh African sun; a hat is essential to every women’s safari outfit. A safari hat is not just about fashion but functions as it keeps the sun off your face.

Since the equator splits Africa, expect intense UV rays. No accessory is better suited or more fashionable than a safari hat—it feels right and never out of place.

16 Best Safari Hats for Men and Women

Scala All-Season Crushable Hat

Oh my, I love this safari hat for women. The wool felt makes for an all-around great-looking stylish safari hat. The style is similar to a fedora with a very Western vibe. It looks great, and the price point isn’t bad, either.

The best part is that the material still allows you to crush the hat to fit inside your luggage for such a good-looking one. No one wants to wear an outdoor hat home on a 15-hour flight. Once you take it out of your bag, it snaps right back into shape!

Tilley LTM6 Airflo Hat

Tilley has long been famed for its sun protection hats. They’ve seen the world over and had more than a few adventures. It holds its shape, and the material has a stylish look. What sets Tilley apart is that they guarantee their hats for life against wear and tear.

What To Look For in A Women’s Safari Dress

Durability

African elements can be tough on women’s safari clothing, so choose good quality clothing made from robust fabrics with intelligent design and double stitching. Avoid fast fashion companies such as H&M, Zara, and Forever21.

Material

Look for lightweight, synthetic, quick-dry clothing from recycled nylon or sustainable materials such as hemp, wool, or linen. Avoid rayon and opt for organic cotton if possible. You’re on a trip to explore the wonders of nature. A safari outfit shouldn’t negatively impact the environment.

Versatility

Pack interchangeable clothes to avoid carrying a jumbo suitcase. One long skirt or dress, one pair of shorts, and two pairs of pants that go well with plain-colored shirts are great options.

Practicality

Pockets are essential for storing lip balm, sunscreen, or binoculars. Choose comfortable and practical clothes, and avoid black yoga pants with no pockets.

Camouflage

A safari dress should blend in with the environment. You should wear beige, green, and brown colored clothes. They are the staple colors of safari wear because they blend into the environment and can provide a better game-viewing experience.

While wearing, bright colors such as red are said to scare off animals and make you stand out. This may or may not be true. Only the animals know for sure. Of course, the Maasai Warriors in Kenya and Tanzania have been wearing red for centuries!

That being said, neutral colors do a great job of hiding dirt and dust, which there will be plenty of on a drive or walk through the bush. White clothes aren’t going to stay white very long, and dark colors are believed to attract tsetse flies. Trust us; you do not want to become familiar with tsetse flies!

We love greens, beige, and khaki just as much as the next wannabe Merryl Streep in Out of Africa. However, you will spend a lot of time in a car on game drives in Africa. Wearing these colors help you blend in and don’t bake your body under the hot African sun, but in the end, colors don’t matter.

The Basics of Safari Clothes

What Clothes to Pack for a Safari?

You don’t need an endless collection of safari clothes in a safari bag. We’re big fans of versatility and minimalism as people tend to overpack for their safari, which becomes a burden.

On safari, traveling to the wilds of the African bush, an entire wardrobe of clothes is unnecessary. In addition, the standard form of transportation is a small Cessna bush plane, so a heavy suitcase of clothes will not fly.

We break down all the clothes you’ll want for safari here to help you look the part, but any safari expert will agree there is no set dress code or safari outfit.

Where to Go On Safari?

The first decision in packing for a safari is where you’re headed on safari. Africa has a very wide range of landscapes, vegetations, and climates. You should pack for where in Africa you’re headed, that’s pretty straightforward.

We have another post on the best destinations to go on safari along with our favorite parks, camps, and lodges. While you’re at it you can read up on our favorite safari animals to see while traveling.

What Season to Go on Safari?

Weather plays a large role in what you wear.

Most African climates do not have your standard four-season climate. Here it is the primarily dry and wet season, especially in Eastern Africa. Dry season can bring heat to East Africa; however, dry season in Southern Africa means it will be cool in the evenings and mornings.

Then it flips.

The rainy season in East Africa brings cooler weather patterns and perpetuates constant spring-like weather in Tanzania and Kenya. While the rainy season in South Africa can coincide with its hottest months.

The basic gist is if it’s dry season, we suggest khaki, brown, and tan if it’s rainy season, time to bust out the browns and greens. Just please, no leopard print, okay, maybe a little.

What to Wear in Southern Africa?

In Southern Africa, the climate varies across the region. Summers can be blisteringly hot, while winters are freezing in the back of a game vehicle. Many visitors show up in the winter thinking they will be in the hot bush only to find zero-degree weather in an open vehicle. Yikes!

The key to a comfortable safari outfit is layers. We often pack and wear layers to adjust to the wide range of temperatures you can experience on a typical day. While the morning can be freezing in arid locations like Botswana by midday, it can be hot. Layers will save you.

What to Wear in Central & East Africa?

Here the weather is more temperate year-round. It is often referred to as the “never-ending spring.” However, morning game drives can still be chilly, so convertible pants and a light jacket are great options. Always come prepared for rain, given the time of year. We’ve been caught in several of the famous thunderstorms of Africa, including a flash flood in Tanzania!

We suggest items that blend form and function as a safari can be rough and often involves plenty of time exploring outdoors. You’ll want help from technical fabrics that resist odor, dirt, and wrinkles.

Before my first trip to the continent, I knew little about women’s safari fashion or what to pack. However, after countless safaris through Southern and Eastern Africa, I’ve learned the essentials for staying cool and stylish during your adventure. That way, your safari experience will be one of the greatest highlights of your life.

In this article, I’ll share my insights and experiences to help guide you through the best women’s safari clothing. From shirts, shorts, pants, dresses, shoes, boots, and accessories, I’ll provide practical and fashionable advice for your first African safari.

Safari Clothes For Women

Safari Shirts For Women

We have a few recommendations for safari shirts. All of these will keep you comfortable in the bush and have some nifty features like additional pockets or vented back panels. When you select the color it’s best to stick with earth tones such as white, tan, sepia, or rust.

It’s great if at least one of the shirts has long sleeves. This is a particularly important form of protection from the sun and insects. In Malaria prone zones, it’s best to cover up in the evenings and avoid mosquito bites altogether.

Columbia Tamiami II

MSRP: $50 | Material: Ripstop Polyester

The Columbia Tamiami II Shirt is a great safari shirt with various features for a comfortable outdoor experience. With its blend of Omni-Wick moisture management and antimicrobial treatment, this shirt is perfect for hot and humid climates, actively breathing and wicking away moisture for fast evaporation.

The vented back panels and front pockets provide additional ventilation, making it a comfortable choice for long days out in the sun. It provides reliable UV protection with its Omni-Shade UPF 40. The roll-up sleeves are thoughtful design features that add to the shirt’s versatility. We also appreciate that women get a practical piece of clothing with five pockets.

While this shirt’s loose cut and outdoor style may not appeal to everyone, its practical features make it an excellent option for those seeking an affordable, well-designed safari shirt. It’s not the most stylish shirt in the world, but for around $50, it’s an excellent value.

Unbound Merino Wool V-Neck

MSRP – $85 | Material – Merino Wool

Our favorite women’s t-shirt for safari and travel is the Unbound Wool V-Neck. A merino wool shirt is a worthy investment and one of the best travel clothes for any trip. Despite the price, we’ve already transitioned a lot of our wardrobe to the material. Wools shirts stay fresh longer and do an excellent job at temperature management. Best of all, the heavier fabric looks better.

Cotton shirts often take one or two wears to feel oily and heavy, while wool shirts last for days. I’ve tested a lot of wool shirts out, and my favorite for travel so far is from Unbound Merino. Their shirts are a perfect weight, and the material is soft and durable. We prefer their v-neck cut for a slightly more feminine shape.

Patagonia Long Sleeve Sun Stretch Shirt

MSRP – $119 | Material – Recycled Nylon/Polyester

The Patagonia Long Sleeve Sun Stretch Shirt is the perfect choice for women who want a safari shirt that offers both practicality and comfort. Made with a blend of recycled nylon and T400® polyester, this shirt is quick-drying and lightweight. This makes it ideal for Africa’s hot and humid conditions. The stretchy mechanical-stretch fabric allows for ease of motion, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

In addition to its technical features, the Patagonia Long Sleeve Sun Stretch Shirt also boasts stylish western-inspired drop-in pockets, making it ideal for carrying essentials. The shirt also features collar snaps to keep the collar from flapping in windy conditions and a hidden lens cleaner to keep optics clear.

With its technical features, comfort, and style, this shirt is the perfect choice for women who want a top-quality safari shirt. Our only complaint about the shirt is the high price tag.

Everlane Linen Shirt

MSRP – $85 | Material – Linen

I like to pack a technical long-sleeve shirt for a safari, but it’s tough to beat a classic shirt from a classic material like linen. It looks and feels excellent; there is no better summer shirt. Best of all, the material remains practical as the linen has anti-microbial properties and fights against odor.

Pair a linen shirt with sandals, shorts, chinos, jeans, or boots. It will always work. Linen shirts are versatile clothing that looks good for both sexes and works at the beach, museum, archaeological site, or safari. It’s a classic style for women’s safari clothes.

It’s tough to find decent linen shirts online, but I love the quality and value of Everlane’s linen shirts. You can often score a deal, so if you stain or snag the shirt, it won’t end the world. Amazon makes some cheap linen shirts, but like most things from the company, they’re poor quality.

Safari Pants For Women

When it comes to safari outfits for women, pants are a crucial component. Although I typically avoid wearing pants in hot weather, they feel more appropriate on safari. We recommended packing at least two pairs of safari pants for a typical trip. Not only do they offer better protection against insects, but they also provide coverage against the elements.

Pants with breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal for hot and humid conditions. They should be lightweight and comfortable and allow for ease of movement on bush walks or hopping into the back of a truck. Of course, we always appreciate functional pockets for storage and zippers for ventilation.

KUHL Freeflex Pants

MSRP – $109 | Material – Enduro Fabric / Freeflex

Kuhl’s ENDURO blend fabric in their Freeflex Roll-Up pants is a testament to their commitment to quality and durability. We prefer the comfort of lightweight synthetic pants as most safaris occur in hot weather. These safari pants are lightweight and super comfortable. For outdoor pants, these are surprisingly comfortable.

Not only does the fabric feel soft against the skin, but it has also proven to be resistant to wear and tear after repeated use. The double-stitching and metal buttons are just a few of the high-end details that set these pants apart from the competition.

The Freeflex Roll-Up pants convert to capris and feature six functional pockets and an internal drawstring. It all adds up to the perfect combination for women who want practicality and comfort.

REI Co-op Trailsmith Pants

MSRP – $69 | Material – Cotton/Poly

The REI Co-op Trailsmith Pants are the ultimate choice for safari pants that combines style, comfort, and durability. We love that REI took the traditional style of outdoor wear and made these joggers with cuffed ankles. It makes for cute and super functional pants.

With a blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex fabric, these pants wick away moisture and stretch to provide a comfortable fit. The double-layer fabric reinforcements at the knees and thighs offer added durability, making these pants ideal for outdoor adventures.

For added convenience, these pants feature a range of pockets, including jeans-style coin, hand, and back pockets, a drop-in tool pocket at the side, and a pencil pocket at the thigh. It really adds a nice utilitarian style to these joggers and they’re super functional too! We love these pants! The Trailsmith Pants feel comfortable enough for the backcountry, office, or daily errands.

Fjallraven Vidda Pro

MSRP – $175 | Material – Polyester/Cotton

No pant says adventure pants more than the Fjallraven Vidda Pro Trousers. These pants are prepared to withstand challenging conditions and keep you comfortable and stylish. Made with durable G-1000 Eco fabric, these pants are not only eco-friendly but also resistant to moisture and waxed for extra protection. Reinforced with double layers of material over the knees ensures excellent durability in a high abrasion area.

And with the pants engineered fit and preshaped knees, these pants provide unrestricted mobility, making them perfect for any outdoor activity. We’ve worn these pants when mountaineering on the Columbia Icefield with no signs of discomfort.

The generous ventilation openings along the legs and the detachable strap adjustments at the leg endings make these pants the perfect choice for warm weather. The large pockets, including a knife pocket and axe loop, give you ample space to store your essentials. And with reinforced suspender zones and gear loops, these pants are designed to keep up with even the most strenuous activities.

Even if you don’t need the robust features of these safari pants, they have a very cool look. These pants can handle anything the outdoors can throw at you.

Safari Shorts for Women

It gets HOT in Africa, especially in the middle of the day. I recommend bringing at least one pair of safari shorts to stay cool – plus, they look great and will add to your women’s safari outfit. I prefer a nice pair of shorts that are practical yet stylish.

We suggest pants as protection against mosquitos, but they usually come out in the evenings and at night. So we wear shorts for morning game drives and daytime activities. When it comes to afternoons and sundowners, we switch to pants.

prAna Women’s Elle Shorts

MSRP – $59 | Material – Nylon/Elastane

The prAna Elle Shorts are ideal for women seeking comfort and versatility on their safari adventure. The shorts blend organic cotton and spandex for excellent breathability and stretch. The result is a super comfortable pair of shorts that look great. As prAna generally strives for sustainable materials, the cotton is Fair Trade Certified and organic.

The Elle Shorts also offer stylish design features such as detail stitching at the front waistband, seaming at the front legs, and side seam slit detail. The shorts also feature front and back patch pockets with edge bands, making them a functional and fashionable choice for safari.

With a mid-rise, fitted design and available in 3″ and 5″ inseam options, the prAna Elle Shorts are the perfect addition to any adventurous woman’s wardrobe.

The North Face Aphrodite Motion Shorts

MSRP – $45 | Material – Nylon/Elastane

The North Face Aphrodite Motion Shorts are perfect for safaris and other adventures. They’re made with a soft herringbone fabric that stretches for mobility and has water-repellent, sweat-wicking, and sun-protecting properties.

The shorts come in various colors, including khaki, and have a comfortable waistband, hand pockets, and a secure-zip pocket. The shorts are also adjustable thanks to a stretch draw cord. Get ready for any outdoor adventure with these shorts!

Columbia Saturday Trail Short

MSRP – $45 | Material – Nylon/Elastane

The Columbia brand is always good for affordable outdoor wear. These trail shorts are perfect for a safari in Africa as they provide UPF 50 sun protection and insect repellant. Their stretchable fabric makes them ideal for sitting in a safari vehicle for long hours throughout the day.

Even though these are safari shorts, they are still fashionable for dinner and other activities on safari. The best part about these shorts is that even after your African safari experience, you can wear them at home. They are perfectly acceptable for trail running, hiking, or running errands around town.

Safari Vest For Women

A vest is a must-have item for layering on a safari. Not only does it add an extra layer of protection against the elements, but it also serves as a stylish addition to your safari outfit. I always bring at least one vest on my trips to Africa as it’s a fantastic accessory, and more pockets never hurt!

It works on many trips and will always make a great impression. So, pack a vest for your next safari and add a touch of sophistication to your wardrobe! It’s one of the best style accessories for safari clothes for women.

Orvis Pack and Go Vest

MSRP – $129 | Material -Recycled Polyester

Orvis designs some of our favorite items for stylish outdoor wear — perfect for safari wear. The vest’s weight has a nice balance. It can be worn independently in warm weather or as an outer layer for cooler days.

It’s pretty lightweight and can fold down into an included stuff sack. A waist cinch and multiple pockets also deliver the practicality and features we want in a vest. As a bonus, the polyester material used is Bluesign® certified and dries out quickly.

LE3NO Military Anorak Vest

MSRP – $29 | Material -Cotton

Functional, lightweight, and comfortable with a whole bunch of pockets. Easy Addition to the list of best women’s safari clothes. It’s not high-quality fashion, and I wouldn’t expect much out of this piece, but it’s tough to complain about the price. We can recommend it, but please bear in mind the impacts of fast fashion on the environment.

Women’s Safari Dresses

A safari dress is great because it can be a one-piece safari outfit for ladies. I like to bring a few dresses on safari for meal times and for times out of the game vehicle. Also – they are perfect for safari photos!

Most safaris are very leisurely, so a dress is perfectly comfortable for riding around in the back of a game viewer. A dress is much better than pants when the sun is sweltering!

Scotch & Soda Safari Dress

MSRP – $165 | Material -Tencel

This fashion-forward safari dress from Scotch & Soda delivers everything we want in style. The classic off-white look, cuffs, and buttons down the front will feel right at home on a safari.

It’s made from a lightweight material called Tencel that is eco-friendly and operates in a closed-loop system. That soft material is light and breathes easily, so you’re comfortable and cool in the African sun. Be warned, this is a super popular item from the brand, and they regularly sell out.

Patagonia Fleetwith Romper

MSRP – $129 | Material -Recycled Polyester/Spandex

We love Patagonia and that they’re always looking to reduce their impact and improve the supply line. The Patagonia Fleetwith Romper is Bluesign certified and super comfortable. While the Fleetwith is available as a dress, we prefer the romper best.

It’s comfortable, fits just about anyone, and is practical when active or moving around. With the romper, you can easily feel comfortable on a bush flight, in the back of a game viewer, or on a bush walk.

The one-piece romper is made from a 91% recycled polyester/9% spandex blend, moves with your body, resists wrinkles, and quickly dries. The romper and dress make for great safari wear, and they are so versatile you may end up living in them at home. It’s a slam dunk in our books for safari clothes for women.

Swimsuit

We always carry a spare bathing suit, even on a safari. Plenty of great beach lodges make for a beautiful and relaxing end to a busy safari. That doesn’t include the many safari lodges and hotels with a pool. We’ve even taken impromptu dips in the various rivers and natural springs. Consider a swimsuit a necessity when it comes to safari clothes for women.

One of the best brands of swimsuits I’ve found is Londre. They make amazing swimsuits that fit as nicely as they look. Many of their pieces are stylish yet supportive. You are warned you will love them! You can read about the best hotels in Zanzibar or Diani Beach!

Safari Jackets For Women

No matter what season you go on safari you should at least bring a warm fleece jacket (maybe even a down jacket) with you just in case it gets cold (which it probably will). However, if you want something a bit more stylish for warmth and photos, I recommend a nice safari jacket.

Orvis Pack-And-Go Travel Jacket

MSRP – $169 | Material -Recycled Polyester/Spandex

If you’re looking for something versatile and packed with style, the Orvis Pack And Go is a great choice. This adorable mid-thigh travel jacket is wind and water-resistant, has a stowaway hood, and loads of space and hidden pockets.

The fit is complimenting, cinching at the waist, and the colors are pretty muted, making this jacket the perfect pairing to almost any outfit! The polyester blend also resists wrinkling, which is excellent because it comes with a stuff sack, so you can pack and go. 

A large downside for us is the use of polyester. It’s a cheaper material and one of the best ways to distinguish high-end vs. more affordable options. Polyester has a lower fail rate, easier to snag, and requires a weather-resistant coating to remain water-resistant, which breaks down over time.

Safari Boots For Women

You’ll be sitting in a car for most of your African safari. I actually wear flip-flops quite a bit unless I am going on a bushwalk in which good women’s travel shoes are needed. You don’t want to have to run from a buffalo in bad shoes (joking)!

I would suggest bringing at least one pair of durable sandals and one good pair of women’s safari boots.

Danner Mountain 600

MSRP – $210 | Material – Suede Leather

If it’s looking like you might need something a little heavier than the standard boot, then take a close look at the Danner Mountain 600 Boot. Danner has been building boots since 1932, and in that time they crafted some of the footwear for the U.S. Marine Corps, so you can bet they know what they’re doing.

The Mountain 600 is a perfect balance between performance and aesthetics. You’ll have a rugged boot that can take anything you throw at it, but appear like you’re wearing stylish leather city kicks.

Danner’s Mountain 600 is waterproof and features a comfortable, shock-absorbing midsole, perfect for a few trail adventures during the day, then heading back into the city for the evening. The more rugged construction also means a longer break-in period, so wear them around at home before you take off.

Merrell Women’s Moab 3

MSRP – $120 | Material – Leather

If you’re in the market for hiking boots, the Merrell Moab 3 Boots are a popular choice. They’re made of leather, textile, and synthetic materials and are comfortable straight out of the box. Plus, with Merrell’s expertise in hiking boots, you can rest assured that your feet will be in good hands for long-distance walks.

I have owned several pairs of Moabs and can attest to their quality over the years. However, one thing to remember is that these boots are less specialized. While they are comfortable immediately, the soles are soft, making them less ideal for avid hikers. However, for everyone else, Merrell Moabs are a solid choice for comfortable safari boots that won’t disappoint.

Blundstone Leather Boot

MSRP – $220 | Material – Suede Leather

Blundstones are our go-to travel boots and make excellent safari boots. This boot is stylish, functional, and practical for any travel adventure. While it’s not a “technical” boot, it handles moderate hikes and terrain impressively. Style is a really strong suit here with a wide range of leather finishes to match your taste.

As they use premium leather they require some upkeep with leather treatment to ensure longevity and water resistance. The Blundstone Chelsea Boot is a solid go-to for any stylish and practical safari adventure. We love these boots!

Safari Hats For Women

You don’t want your skin ruined from the harsh African sun and a hat is essential to every women’s safari outfit. A safari hat is not just about fashion but functions as it keeps the sun off your face.

Since Africa is split by the equator, expect intense UV rays. No accessory is better suited or more fashionable than a safari hat—it feels right and never out of place.

Filson Tin Packer Hat ($85)

The Tin Packer is a great go-to all-around safari hat for women and is the perfect item to add to your safari clothes for women. Filson makes a great product, which is no exception with the tin packer hat. It’s water-repellent and wear-resistant, so it will last for many years.

Scala All-Season Crushable Hat ($60)

Oh my, I love the Scala Crushable Hat as a safari hat for women. It’s made of wool felt and an all-around great-looking olive green stylish safari hat. The style is similar to a fedora with a very Western vibe. It looks great, and the price point isn’t bad, either.

The best part about it is that for such a good-looking hat, the material still allows you to crush the hat to fit inside your luggage. Once you take it out of your luggage, it snaps right back into shape!

Outback Trading Co. Kodiak Oilskin Hat ($69)

The Kodiak Oilskin Hat is perfect for those going into the Outback or the African bush. It’s made of cotton treated with oil, meaning it is water-resistant.

So when you get caught in a thunderstorm, you don’t need to worry about the safety of your hat or getting uncomfortable. It’s a stylish hat and probably one of my favorites.

Safari Bags For Women

You’ll need a good safari bag to carry and pack all these women’s safari clothes into. If you’re going on safari, you may be taking a bush flight or two. I would recommend packing light as most of these small plans severely limit you on weight.

We have been on flights where we are only allowed 15 kg a person and some flights that allow us to have 25 kg. Make sure only to pack what you need.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag ($169)

Hop on any bush flight, and you’ll see this safari bag under the plane or at its rear. Patagonia’s Black Hole bags have taken over adventure travel and outdoor sports. It’s a slam dunk safari bag for us as it is waterproof, soft, and can swallow any clothes/gear.

Patagonia’s unique TPU film laminate polyester ripstop is stylish and durable. In recent years, they’ve also made the material 100% recyclable, an awesome eco-friendly step. While it’s unlikely your bag will face too much water on safari, the weatherproofing does translate well to dust protection for rides in the back of a safari truck.

Filson Medium Rugged Twill Duffel Bag ($575)

Filson delivers beautiful products with attention to detail. The Medium Rugged Twill Duffel Bag makes for a gorgeous safari bag. Its unparalleled build quality assures us the bag should last a lifetime or, at the very least, a decade. Plus, it comes in three color styles to match any style.

Its build quality starts with an exceptional industrial-strength medium twill fabric waxed for water repellency. That material is complemented with Bridle Leather straps, accents, and handles. A final finish on the bag is the solid brass zippers. It’s an exceptionally luxurious safari bag with a price tag to match the quality.

Herschel Supply Co. Little America Eco Pack ($120)

You’ve seen this daypack before. Herschel makes the Little America Eco Pack, drawing inspiration from mountaineering bags back in the day. The classic look and simple design make it a perfect backpack for safari.

No, this isn’t a heavy-duty travel daypack meant for the African Bush, but with a great look and affordable price, we love the bag. However, the polyester exterior also performs well at water repellency and durability. It’s a bag that holds up well to regular daily use.

Safari Accessories For Women

Smith Lowdown 2 Sunglasses ($109)

Polarized sunglasses help with contrast and spotting wildlife. It can be dusty in the back of a game vehicle. Then much of East Africa sits on the equator, which means UV rays are much stronger, so eye protection is super important.

Smith Optics Lodown 2.0 makes excellent active sunglasses that still look sharp enough to wear around a posh seaside town. For a more formal and stylish brand, we love Persol and Rayban for their timeless style.

Buff Headwear ($15)

We travel around with Buff Headwear, and they’re some of our favorite travel accessories that we’ve recommended a handful of times. They’re great for keeping sweat out of our eyes on a hike.

Or in dust out of your face when riding down a dusty road, which you’ll need on Safari. They offer sun protection, can act as a scarf, and many other things. Buy one and fall in love with it.

Grayl GeoPress Purifier Water Bottle ($99)

It’s not advisable to drink tap water in most of Africa. We travel with a water bottle that purifies water for safe drinking water. Our favorite is the Grayl GeoPress Purifier bottle. It saves money, reduces plastic waste, and ensures our water is safe and free of viruses and other waterborne illnesses.

The Grayl bottle is not only practical but also innovative in design. A press-like system effectively filters out sediment, bacteria, and heavy metals, leaving only clean and safe water. Its wide-mouth top makes it easy to drink and fill, and its sleek design fits comfortably in any bag or backpack.

Nikon Monarch 5 8×42 ($250)

A great safari accessory to have is a pair of safari binoculars. Nikon has long been a reputable name in binocular manufacturing, and Monarch 5 Binoculars are an excellent example.

The 42mm lens diameter allows for excellent low-light viewing, while the body itself is built for extreme use – sounds perfect for a safari.

What To Look For in Safari Clothes For Women’s

Durability

African elements can be tough on women’s safari clothing, so choose good quality clothing made from robust fabrics with intelligent design and double stitching. Avoid fast fashion companies such as H&M, Zara, and Forever21.

Material

Look for lightweight, synthetic, quick-dry clothing made from recycled nylon or sustainable materials such as hemp, wool, or linen. Avoid rayon and opt for organic cotton if possible. You’re on a trip to explore the wonders of nature it’s best that safari clothes for women do not negatively impact the environment.

Versatility

Pack interchangeable clothes to avoid carrying a jumbo suitcase. One long skirt or dress, one pair of shorts, and two pairs of pants that go well with plain-colored shirts are great options.

Practicality

Pockets are essential for storing lip balm, sunscreen, or binoculars. Choose comfortable and practical clothes, and avoid black yoga pants with no pockets.

Color Choice & Camouflage

Safari clothes should blend in with the environment. You should wear beige, green, and brown colored clothes. They are the staple colors of safari wear because they blend into the environment and can provide a better game-viewing experience.

While wearing, bright colors such as red are said to scare off animals and make you stand out. This may or may not be true. Only the animals know for sure. Of course, the Maasai Warriors in Kenya and Tanzania have been wearing red for centuries!

That being said, neutral colors do a great job of hiding dirt and dust, which there will be plenty of on a drive or walk through the bush. White clothes aren’t going to stay white very long, and dark colors are believed to attract tsetse flies. Trust us; you do not want to become familiar with tsetse flies!

For example, when gorilla trekking, wearing long pants and greens is advised. When on foot, wearing colors that blend well into the environment and a good pair of safari boots is always recommended.

We love greens, beige, and khaki just as much as the next wannabe Merryl Streep in Out of Africa. However, the truth is you will spend a lot of time in a car while on game drives in Africa. Wearing these colors help you blend in and don’t bake your body under the hot African sun, but in the end, colors don’t matter.

Tips For Women’s Safari Clothing

• Avoid dark blue as it can attract Tsetse flies.
• Layering is key for early mornings, late evenings, or hot afternoons.
• Check the season and pack accordingly, including a lightweight jacket for rainy days.
• You don’t need special safari clothes, but packing a few fashionable items can add style to your trip.

Book A Safari in Africa

Traditionally if you wanted to book a safari, you’d have to go to a travel agent and have them book your safari for you. They suggested camps and lodges and then presented you with a large bill. Most of the industry still operates in this fashion.

However, Timbuktu is a new platform that allows you to select the lodges you’d like and see the daily pricing, which allows you to select the best itinerary for yourself. They will then contact the lodges and help you through booking your safari. Experts on staff can also provide suggestions and arrange the little details like a travel agent.