WHAT TO WEAR & PACK
South Africans are generally laid back when it comes to clothing, so there is no need to haul out your best silks and diamonds when heading for our shores, unless you’re attending a very prestigious event.
For summer, bring clothes that are cool, light and comfortable because summer temperatures can get well into the 30 °C range in some areas.
Also bring an umbrella or raincoat during summer as this is when most of the country gets its rain. In areas like Gauteng and the North West Province, thunder showers are common. A light jacket or wrap is a good precaution. Don’t forget a bathing suit.
The winters are generally mild, comparing favorably with European summers. But we do get some days when temperatures dive, especially in high-lying areas such as the Drakensberg, so be prepared with jerseys and jackets. Cape Town gets its rain during the winter season so it’s advisableto bring rain gear along.
Always bring a hat, sunglasses and sunblock as the sun can be strong even in the winter months.
Walking shoes are a good idea all year-round, with warm socks in the winter.
If you are doing business in the country, business attire (suit and tie) is generally called for in the corporate sector, but media, for example, generally dress more casually.
For game viewing, neutral-toned items are advised, but there’s no need to go overboard. A good pair of walking shoes is also advisable. Camouflage clothing and/or accessories are NOT acceptable.
For the evening, if you are dining at an upscale restaurant or seeing a show, smart/casual attire is recommended.
Leave some room in your suitcase for South African clothing. Information on local designers can be found on the internet. Look out for local labels like Hip Hop, Stoned Cherrie, Maya Prass, Ebok and more.
South Africans are generally laid back when it comes to clothing, so there is no need to haul out your best silks and diamonds when heading for our shores, unless you’re attending a very prestigious event.
WHAT TO PACK
Please note that these are just suggestions and depending on the month/season travelling. Warmer clothes are required for travelling in June/July/August.
People often ask us to recommend things which we think they should bring with them when going on a safari. Through our own and previous guests experiences we have compiled a list of those items we have found to be useful and necessary
1-2 pair/s of smart/ casual trousers
2-3 pairs of shorts
4 Shirts/ T-shirts (any combination)
1 light cotton sundress for the ladies
1 pair of walking/ running shoes
1 pair of sandals/crocks, etc.
1 swim suit
1 sun hat
Sunscreen
Water bottle
Mosquito Repellent (With DEET if possible). Otherwise, you can purchase at the resort.
Light Jacket / Cardigan for the evenings (depending on the season of travel)
Our summer months are from the end of August to April with the hottest period from October to February. One should expect rain storms or drizzle on any of these days. It hardly ever rains continually though and generally the rain storms last for only an hour or so. We provide rainproof ponchos for guest to use on the vehicles during game drives and there are sufficient umbrellas for guest to use at the lodges. Our winter is from May to July with the coldest period being towards the end of June and July. We provide fleece blankets for guests to use on the vehicles during game drives.
ADDITIONAL PACKING GUIDELINES
It may at times be very cold during the early morning and during the evening safari. A warm fleece jacket, a fleece scarf and a warm hat will be needed. A warm pair of gloves may also be an added advantage.
You may also want to bring a warm track suite to wear instead of a dress or light trousers.
Try to keep the colours of your clothing as neutral as possible in order to blend in with the environment. Khaki colors and browns or greens are generally the best. Darker colors and colors that are very bright tend to attract unwanted insects such as mosquitoes and other bug type visitors.
You should bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes for use during bush walks or when off the game drive vehicle and a pair of sandals or flip-flops to wear around the lodge. Meal times are generally informal, so it is not necessary to dress up in formal clothing for dinner. If you wear prescriptions eye glasses or contact lenses it may be an idea to bring a spare pair in case yours get mislaid or broken. Also ensure that you have sufficient lens cleaning lotion as the outdoor environment may at times become extremely dusty which could require frequent cleaning.
You should also bring a video or digital camera, a good pair of binoculars, enough memory cards for your camera (or film for those who still prefer to use film) and your plug and charger for the camera equipment. Should you want to send emails or photos home to friends or family you should bring your Laptop or personal computer. We have wireless internet spots at some of our lodges. We also have a dedicated computer which is set aside for guests at all of our lodges.
All our rooms are supplied with basic amenities such as soap, shampoo and body lotions. You may however want to bring your own favourite items with you as well. We have a reasonably priced 24-hour laundry service available for guest use at all our lodges.
There are curio shops at all of our lodges so it is possible to purchase most of the items listed above should any of them be forgotten. Please travel with minimal luggage. We suggest using only ONE suitcase if possible as inter-land airlines baggage restrictions are less weight than international flights.
