What to wear on your safari adventure
Embarking on an African safari is one of the most thrilling adventures you can take - offering close encounters with majestic wildlife, vast landscapes, and unforgettable moments under the African sky. To make the most of this experience, thoughtful packing is essential.
With safari season running from June through October, there’s still plenty of time to plan - and in 2025, packing smart means blending classic essentials with a few modern upgrades. Weather is becoming more unpredictable, sustainable choices matter more than ever, and new lightweight travel tech makes it easier to stay prepared without overpacking.
Here’s your complete guide to packing for a safari in comfort, style, and confidence.
Essential Safari Clothing: Blend In, Stay Comfortable
Neutral-Colored Clothing
To blend seamlessly into the African bush and stay comfortable, opt for layers in earthy tones like khaki, brown, and olive green. These colors not only help you blend in but also handle the changing temperatures throughout the day.
Lightweight and Breathable Fabrics
Given the hot and humid climates of many safari destinations, choose lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking synthetics. These materials will keep you cool and comfortable throughout your journey.
Long-Sleeved Shirts and Pants
Protect yourself from the sun, insects, and thorny vegetation by wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants. Look for garments with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) for added sun protection, and consider convertible pants that can transform into shorts for versatility. Our Candy Pants and our Anatomie Kate Cargo Pants are both great choices to pack.
Specific Clothing Recommendations
Our Anatomie line features lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics that outperform traditional cotton in comfort and functionality.
The Kenya Safari Jacket
Offers a sleek, fashion-forward style and is nipped in at the waist for a flattering feminine fit. It is outfitted with plenty of pockets for stashing all your travel essentials and crafted in their signature stretch woven fabric, a lightweight stretch material. The Safari Jacket is wrinkle-free, moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and highly durable. The perfect companion on any trip.
Delaney Vest
Crafted from their exclusive curve-hugging stretch fabric that's designed to be your go-to piece. With a flattering longer length, this chic vest is perfect for safari, seamlessly transitioning between warm and colder weather, and elevating your overall look. Wear it over a shirt or layer it with the Kenya Safari Jacket.
Kate Skinny Cargo Pants
Offers a slimming fit, a broad waistband, ample pockets, and a sleek, wrinkle-resistant design. Crafted from the Anatomie signature ultra-lightweight stretch fabric from France, these pants combine chic European sensibility with everyday ease. Super lightweight and perfect for travel, these pants don't wrinkle, ensuring you stay stylish on the go.
Available in Khaki
Perfect for safari adventures, these pants are unbelievably comfortable, wrinkle-resistant, quick-drying, and versatile enough to be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both daytime excursions and evening activities.
Footwear and Accessories
Closed-Toe Shoes
Choose comfortable, closed-toe shoes like sturdy sneakers for walking over uneven terrain and protecting your feet from rocks, thorns, and insect bites. Hiking boots are unnecessary unless you plan to traverse rugged terrain.
Wide-Brimmed Hat
A wide-brimmed hat will shield your face and neck from the sun’s rays. Look for hats made from breathable materials with a chin strap to keep them secure in windy conditions.
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from glare and harmful UV rays with polarized sunglasses designed for outdoor activities. Ensure they offer full coverage.
Scarf
Bring a bandana or scarf to protect against dust during game drives.
Lightweight Jacket or Fleece
Early mornings and evenings can be cool, especially in open vehicles. Pack a lightweight jacket or fleece to layer over your clothing. Choose neutral colors to maintain a low profile. Our Kenya Safari Jacket is the perfect travel companion for safari.
Additional Gear and Essentials
Rain Gear
Rain showers can be unexpected, depending on the season and location. Pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket or poncho to stay dry during sudden downpours.
Swimwear
If your safari includes swimming or water-based activities, don’t forget to pack swimwear. Opt for quick-drying options that transition easily from water to land.
Binoculars & Camera Gear
No safari is complete without the right tools for wildlife viewing. Binoculars are essential for spotting animals at a distance, while camera gear lets you capture those unforgettable moments. Many travelers now prefer mirrorless cameras with lightweight lenses — they’re easier to carry in small safari vehicles, offer lightning-fast autofocus, and some models have whisper-quiet shutters that are less likely to startle birds or skittish animals.
Pro Tip: Bring extra memory cards, charged batteries, and keep your gear in a lightweight bag or vest so you never miss that perfect lion-at-sunset shot.
Insect Repellent and Sunscreen
Protect yourself from both the sun and insect bites - two of the biggest safari challenges. Choose a high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapply often, especially after swimming or sweating. For insect repellent, options include DEET-based formulas (effective in high-risk areas) or newer alternatives like picaridin, which is gentler on skin and gear. If sustainability is a priority, look for reef-safe mineral sunscreens and eco-friendly repellents that protect you while minimizing environmental impact.
Portable Power Bank or Solar Charger
Many lodges have limited charging points - a backup ensures your camera and phone are always ready.
What NOT to Wear on Safari
Avoid Bright Colors and Busy Patterns
Bright colors, busy patterns, and camouflage clothing can attract unwanted attention and scare off wildlife. Similarly, avoid dark colors like black or blue, which may attract tsetse flies.
Avoid Heavy and Bulky Clothing
Opt for smart, lightweight clothing and leave heavy hiking boots behind unless your itinerary includes rugged terrain. Streamline your wardrobe and take advantage of laundry facilities at safari lodges.
Why Clothing Choice Matters
Blend In and Stay Safe
Your attire should respect nature and enhance your safari experience. Neutral colors help you blend into the environment, minimizing disruption to wildlife and maximizing your chances of observing animals in their natural habitat.
Comfort and Performance
Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics like those in the Anatomie line provide superior comfort and performance compared to traditional cotton. Garments treated with insect repellent add extra protection, ensuring uninterrupted exploration.
Prepare for Adventure
As you embark on your African safari, let your clothing reflect the spirit of adventure and respect for nature’s beauty. Thoughtful dressing not only enhances your comfort and safety but also deepens your connection to the wilderness, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the wonders of the African landscape.
Wishing you the adventure of a lifetime - and the perfect travel wardrobe to match.
