We are flying to SA in 3 weeks - Cape Town, Sabi Sand, Chobe in Botswana, and ZIm for Vic Falls. I am not a light packer, so with 20 kg limitations on some of the flights - packing is a challenge.

Do we need really warm jackets for morning safari drives? It seems pretty warm in there during the day.
Do we need hiking boots, or gym shoes will work?
Are there any general packing tips for safari
(I know about camera, sunscreen, binocular, and deet)?
Is Cape Town casual? Do we need to pack anything more or less dressy?

Thank you!

We were on a safari in April at Sabi Sabi. Lucky you, it was the most fabulous vacation we have ever had. I don't know how the weather is now, we were cold in April in the mornings and evening drives, and I suspect that it could be a bit chilly. A hoodie is perfect, I would take my hiking boots, that is if you are going to go on some of the hiking trips, I never got out of the vehicle. I had in mind when I got there to get safari clothes or whatever I needed, and it just was not necessary. Jeans, capris, just be comfortable. I had a couple of dressy casual outfits for dinner. Cape Town is very casual also. Have a wonderful time.

The mornings/nights are always cool to downright cold and September is the end of "their" winter, so ice crystals wouldn't be unusual in the mornings.

Have socks for your feet, scarf and even gloves besides a warm jacket or hoodie, as safari vehicles in SA are truly open. The wind does hit you smack in the face as your guide hauls off in search of game.

Otherwise, comfortable, easily exchangeable colors or stick with tan/beige/khaki, have a nice casual outfit for dinner (with added scarf/pashmina/chunky faux jewelry)... everywhere is rather casual even in Capetown.

Unless you plan on hiking somewhere, nothing special on the feet but something that is well broken in (no new shoes). I wear mocassins or some slip-in mostly. Flats/ballet slippers/sandals are fine for evening, but do watch where you walk when out in the bush.

If flying to/from Kruger on small plains, your weight limit is 15Kg and believe me, you can fit more than sufficient changes of clothing even if only 33/lbs... it's all lightweight.

Do not overpack, as you truly do not need more cloths changes than for the longest place you'll be. Laundry is usually available and if not already included in your price, it's a small fee. What you wear in CPT can be worn on safari in any of the countries.

Thank you, Returntoyourseat and Sandi! Good tip on 15 kg limitation, I thought it was 20 even on the smallest planes.
I did not even realize that on safari there is a need to somewhat dress up for a dinner. I'll keep it mind.

Great tips...

You've heard it before, but layering is the key. We were there in early August, and I'd start the day with a tee shirt, mid-weight fleece and windbreaker/rain jacket. I was usually shedding one layer within the hour, often a second one by late morning. The fleece was very versatile, and a rain jacket can be useful for quick showers at that time of year in Cape Town. I took gloves but never used them.

There's no need to dress up for dinner while on safari, even at Sabi Sand camps. If you want to, do so, but I've never worn anything but safari clothes at the camps and even in the Cape Town area.

We just got back and I would echo what is being said above. Dress in layers as it is cold first thing in the AM and once the sun sets. Don't overpack as laundry is usually included on safari. (note: laundry is very expensive in the hotels in cape town and is not included so plan accordingly for that-- if you can, wait until you are on safari to do it).

I would not bring hiking boots as they are heavy and aren't necessary unless you are a big hiker. Gym shoes should be fine (this is what we brought). Cape Town is surprisingly casual so no need to bring anything fancy.

While we were there, there wasn't a mosquito in sight... may be different when you go; however, I did notice that our lodge supplied a mosquito spray. You might want to inquire about this.

You are going to have a GREAT time!!!!!!!

Oh I forgot to mention, we were supplied with a blanket and warm bottle on our safari-- no need for gloves!

Thank you so much for more avdvice! Helen

Have you gone yet? we are going soon and doing same itin!

Not yet... Still packing...