When planning for your first anything, it’s hard to know what to pack. A safari adventure is exciting, but it’s all unfamiliar territory. We created this guide to make organising your suitcase a cinch and to give you a better idea of what to expect, once you embark on your first safari holiday.
Safari Seasons
You have two options: winter or summer. The South African winter occurs between June female cream and September. At this time of year, you can expect colder temperatures (19 – 25°C during the day), but the animals are much easier to spot. If you’re looking to escape your own cold months, go in the African summer (December to February). You can expect skin-burning temperatures of 25-37°C. What better way to spend Christmas than on the African plains?
What To Pack
There are plenty of comprehensive kit lists online – you can print these off and use them as check lists. Generally it’s good to remember to pack neutral clothes that are easy to layer. Try not to think too much about fashionable attire and choose more practical options instead. As the African evenings can be pretty chilly, layer up and down, depending on the temperatures. To avoid serious sun damage, always take suncream, sunglasses, and a hat.
It’s likely that your resort will include a swimming pool, so don’t forget your cossie, just in case. Whatever you do, take a very good camera with lots of spare batteries. You should also take a spare memory card, just in case. Of course, you don’t want to lose any precious memories of your time spent getting close to wildlife.
A huge, empty bottle is also a great idea. You will want to take on a lot of fluid while you’re roaming through the African bush. Make sure you don’t leave the building without plenty of water in your rucksack.
Accommodation
When it comes to choosing where you’ll stay, always pick two or three non-negotiable must-haves before you select your accommodation. This could be a laundry service or free drinks, but don’t be too picky. You can generally select either a lodge or a tented camp.
Depending on the level of luxury you’re looking for, you can go for robust, basic accommodation or posh rooms, complete with Jacuzzis and bubbly. There’s something for every need.
Some of the best national parks to visit include Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, Pilanesberg, and the ever popular Kruger – its surface area is roughly the size of Wales! If you’re looking to avoid crowds, go with a reputable private reserve.
Malaria
Although the likelihood of contracting malaria on your visit is low, there is a possibility. Better to be safe than sorry! See your doctor before you leave.
What To Expect
We hope you’re an early bird. At 5:30 am, you’ll receive a wake-up call, so the safari can begin at 6:00 am. Huge breakfasts are served at 9:00 am, and you can usually do your own thing until 3:00 pm, when the afternoon safari sets off. Expect to be back at 6:00 pm for dinner!
If you’re looking for a safari park trip a little closer to home, visit http://www.knowsleysafariexperience.co.uk for a memorable day out with your family and friends!
