I've read a lot of posts re clothing and the suggestions for neutral really make sense for drives, but what about at night/dinnertime? My wardrobe is pathetically loaded with black comfortable clothing, and I was hoping it would be ok to wear my air travel clothing at night.

you'll be fine with black at night.

I'm a "black for nite" gal. It's nice to get out of safari tan for dinner. And, since you're in a vehicle during game drives, you can wear black.

Only problem - there's lots of dust - not friendly towards black. Why tan/khaki recommended during the day... doesn't show dirt, either.

What a relief!! I wonder if black by day might be a little hot, and as you mentioned, too dusty. I'll stick with the khaki stuff by day- are shorts acceptable in January?

depends on the legs!

Shorts are fine, but remember the SPF. The Equatorial sun is very strong. Even in covered vehicles, the sun pours in thru the side windows. Protect all exposed skin, back of neck and legs. You'd be surprised how your hands will tan simply by being on the window edge.

mkhonzo,
let's assume the legs are in great shape! even for an old momma like me!