Safari Packing Guideline
Clothing
Neutral Colors: Opt for earthy tones like khaki, beige, olive, and brown. Bright colors can disturb wildlife and attract insects. (Try to avoid blue and black).
Lightweight Layers: Pack breathable, moisture-wicking clothing for daytime and warmer weather, plus warmer layers for early mornings and evenings.
Rain Gear: A light, waterproof jacket or poncho is essential due to unpredictable weather.
Small basic sewing kit to fix a hem or a button
Long-Sleeve Shirts and Pants: Protects against sun, insects, and brush. Choose lightweight and quick-drying fabrics.
Hat and Sunglasses: A wide-brimmed hat for sun protection and UV-protection sunglasses are important for sunny conditions.
Footwear
Comfortable Boots: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots or shoes with good ankle support and traction are crucial for walking and trekking
Casual Shoes: Comfortable sandals or shoes for around the lodge, camp and in the safari vehicle.
Accessories
Binoculars: For wildlife viewing. Choose a pair with at least 8x magnification.
Camera Gear: DSLR or mirror less camera with a zoom lens, extra batteries, memory cards, and a protective
Daypack: A small, comfortable backpack for carrying essentials during daily activities and treks.
Travel Pillow: For added comfort during long drives or flights.
Health and Safety
Insect Repellent: With DEET or a natural alternative to protect against mosquito bites.
Sunscreen: High SPF sunscreen to protect against sunburn.
First Aid Kit: Include basics like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medication
Personal Hygiene Items: Hand sanitizer, biodegradable soap, and any personal toiletries you require.
Prescription Medications: We recommend bringing any necessary prescription medications, including those for malaria. However, we advise you to seek medical advice before your trip.
Anti-Nausea Tablets: Useful for those who may be prone to motion sickness on game drives or internal flights.
Electrolyte Tablets: To stay hydrated, especially in hot conditions.
Prescription Medications: We recommend bringing any necessary prescription medications, including those for malaria. However, we advise you to seek medical advice before your trip.
Anti-Nausea Tablets: Useful for those who may be prone to motion sickness on game drives or internal flights.
Electrolyte Tablets: To stay hydrated, especially in hot conditions.
Hand Cream and Lip Balm: To prevent dryness from sun and wind exposure.
Gorilla Trekking Specific Gear
Walking Sticks: Useful for balance during the trek; available at park headquarters or lodges. You don’t need to bring any not unless you have special type.
Gloves: Thick gloves to protect your hands while navigating through dense vegetation.
Waterproof Bags: To keep personal items dry during the trek.
Anti-Nausea Tablets: Useful for those who may be prone to motion sickness on game drives or internal flights
Gaiters: Protect your lower legs from mud, insects, and brush during gorilla trekking.
Waterproof Bags: For keeping your boots dry in case of unexpected rain or muddy conditions
Travel Essentials
Travel Documents: Passport, visa(s), travel insurance details, and any required vaccination certificates (e.g., Yellow Fever).
Backup Copies of Important Documents: Photocopies or digital backups of your passport, visa, and other important documents.
Cash: Local currency for tips and small purchases. Credit/debit cards are accepted in many places but cash is useful for remote areas.
Travel Insurance: Coverage for health, trip cancellation, and emergency evacuation.
Travel Adapter and Converter: Ensure you have the correct adapter for electrical outlets in the countries you visit. Some devices may require a voltage converter.
Emergency Contact Information: Have a list of important contact numbers including local emergency services, your safari operator, and embassy contacts.
Local SIM Card: To stay connected while traveling or access maps and travel info
Emergency Contact Information: Have a list of important contact numbers including local emergency services, your safari operator, and embassy contacts.
Local SIM Card: To stay connected while traveling or access maps and travel info
Additional Items
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated. Many lodges provide bottled and filtered water, Untouched Wilderness Trips Ltd will provide personal water bottle.
Notebook and Pen: Useful for jotting down observations and experiences, or for any notes you might need during your trip.
Snacks: Non-perishable snacks for long game drives or treks.
Guidebook or Map: For additional information about the regions you will visit.
Small Travel Fan: Handy for cooling off in warm conditions.
Portable Power Bank: To keep your devices charged during long days out.
Packing Tips
Pack Light: Space is limited in safari vehicles, so pack only what you need and choose items that can be easily layered.
Check Weight Limits: Ensure your luggage adheres to the weight limits set by the local airlines.
Prepare for Dust: Safari environments can be dusty. Bring clothing and gear that can be easily cleaned.
Health Precautions: Ensure all necessary vaccinations are up-to-date and carry any required medical documentation
Final Checklist
Verify Visa Requirements: Ensure you have the necessary evisa and visas for all your safari destinations.
Check Health Precautions: Verify any additional health precautions or requirements related to your travel destinations.
Out Bound & In Bound Flights: Double-check your departure and arrival timings.
Special Request: Kindly share with us any special request you might have in case you haven’t done that,
Post-Trip
Review and Feedback:
We request and invite you to share your experiences and feedback with us. Your feedback will help us improve our services and recognize areas where we excel.
Health Check:
Monitor Health: Watch for any health changes after your trip and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
Document and Share:
Share Memories: Organize and share your photos and experiences with friends and family. Consider creating a travel journal or blog to document your adventure.
Tipping
Tipping on trips is an important part of your trip as it reflects appreciation for the service provided by guides, drivers, Concierge and other staff who contribute to your memorable trip experience.
While tipping is ultimately at your discretion, if you feel that someone has gone above and beyond, feel free to adjust your tip accordingly. It’s advisable to tip in US dollars, as they are widely accepted. Please ensure your bills are in good condition, as torn or damaged notes may not be accepted. We recommend tipping at the end of your stay for convenience. It’s best to tip in cash (US dollars or local currency). Make sure to have small bills for convenience.
Here’s our guideline on how to handle tipping while on a trip.
General Tipping Guidelines
Tipping for Guides and Drivers:
Safari Guides/Tour Leaders: Typically $10-$15 per guest per day. This amount can vary based on the level of service, the complexity of the safari, and the length of your stay.
Game Drive Drivers: For shared game drives, $5-$10 per guest per day is customary. If you have a private vehicle, you may consider tipping more, around $10-$20 per day.
Tipping for Lodge/Camp Staff:
Housekeeping: $2-$5 per room per day. Leave this in a visible place, such as on the pillow or bedside table.
Wait staff and Kitchen Staff: $5-$10 per day, depending on the level of service and the size of the lodge or camp.
Tipping Local Guides:
Cultural or Community Guides: $10-$15 per guest for a half-day or full-day tour. This includes guides for activities such as village visits, walks, or cultural experiences.
Porters and Concierge:
Baggage Porters: $1-$2 per bag or per guest per day. This includes assistance with luggage at the lodge, camp, or airport.
Concierge: $3-$5 per guest, depending on the level of service offered at the city hotel.