You've gone on your classic game drive safari and can write the book on what to pack for that. But a walking safari? That's a whole other ballgame! Taking on the African bush on your own two feet is an unforgettable adventure that will heighten your senses and get your blood pumping. And as the world's most awarded safari company, we've gone on many walking safaris all over Africa. So, using this first-hand experience, we've compiled the ultimate list of what to pack for a walking safari in Africa! All you have to do is grab a suitcase and get packing, and we'll see you in sunny Africa soon!
Get up close and personal to the wildlife in Africa, Image Credit: Namiri Plains Camp
What is a Walking Safari, Anyway?
Before we dive into what to pack for a walking safari, some of you might be wondering – what exactly is a walking safari? If you’ve only ever been on a game drive, this is going to feel like an entirely different adventure.
Instead of watching the action from the comfort of a 4x4, you’ll be out in the open, walking through the bush, accompanied by an expert guide and tracker.
It’s a slower, more immersive experience – one where you’ll learn how to read animal tracks, identify different bird calls, and spot tiny creatures you’d miss from a vehicle. And yes, you will get close to wildlife, but always at a safe distance (your guide isn’t in the business of starring in any wildlife documentaries gone wrong).
Every step brings you closer to Africa's untamed beauty – pack wisely for an adventure like no other, Image Credit: Tena Tena
Your Walking Safari Packing List
When it comes to what to pack for a walking safari in Africa, you want to ensure that you've got comfortable clothing and shoes that will carry you across the open plains. Remember, when you're out there in the wild, there's no shelter from the elements, so make sure that you're prepared with our handy packing list.
List of Items to Keep You Warm
The weather in Africa can transition from icy cold to blistering hot in two ticks, so you have to ensure that you're ready for anything. Here are the top items to pack for a walking safari to keep nice and toasty when the weather is on the colder side.
1. Beanies
Much of your body heat escapes through your scalp, so remember to pack a beanie for those early morning excursions and late nights around the fire.
2. Long Pants
Even when the weather is hotter, you want to ensure that you pack long pants to protect yourself from scrapes and cuts as you walk through the bush. Of course, it also helps to keep you warm too.
3. Long-Sleeved Cotton Shirts
For an extra layer of warmth and protection, consider packing long-sleeved cotton shirts, as they are more breathable and lightweight to wear.
4. Warm Long-Sleeved Jackets
Jackets are important on a walking safari in Africa, especially windbreakers, for those chilly early mornings and afternoons.
5. Socks
You need good socks, not only to keep you warm but also to cushion and protect your feet from blisters when you spend a lot of time on them.
6. Buffs
Buffs are handy on a walking safari, as you can place them over your mouth to keep the dust out. Plus, it acts as a warm layer for your neck.
Layer up with a warm jacket and scarf for those chilly early morning walking safaris, Image Credit: Wilderness Vumbura Plains
List of Items to Keep You Cool and Protected from the Sun
Although it can be very cold in the mornings and late evenings, midday in Africa can reach soaring temperatures. Therefore, you want to ensure that you can remove layers and are adequately prepared for when the mighty sun brings its A-game.
1. Vests
Wearing a vest underneath your other clothing will make it easy to strip off the layers as the day heats up. At the same time, it also provides an extra layer of warmth in those early and late hours.
2. Sunscreen
Sun protection is a must! You don't underestimate or play games with the African sun. Trust us on that! If you think you've put on enough sunscreen, you probably need to add another layer to be safe. Pay especially close attention to your neck and ears, as these often take the brunt of the sun's rays.
3. Hat
You will definitely need a hat to protect your scalp and face from the sun as well as keep you cool and collected during your walking safari.
4. Sunglasses
Just like you need to protect your skin, you also need to guard your eyes against the bright sun. Squinting all day will more than likely trigger a headache later, so rather pack your trusted shades to wear on your walking safari.
A walking safari in South Luangwa National Park is the ultimate way to spot wildlife, Image Credit: Mwamba Bush Camp
Other Essentials to Pack for a Walking Safari in Africa
Okay, now that we've covered your basic clothing items, here are some of the other must-pack accessories and items you should not forget.
1. Comfortable Backpack
You want to be able to carry some items along, like water, snacks, sunscreen, etc. Ensure that you opt for a backpack that's comfortable to wear for a long period of time, such as one with straps around your waist to help take the weight off your shoulders (literally). Many luxury lodges will also provide backpacks for your walking safari.
2. Binoculars
It always helps to have a good pair of binoculars when on a walking safari in Africa, as you'd definitely want to take a closer look at the birds flitting past or any other wildlife on the horizon. There's nothing worse than not being able to see what everyone else is ooh-ing and aah-ing over while on safari! Depending on where you're staying, your luxury lodge might also provide one.
3. Quality Hiking Shoes
One of the most important things when considering what to pack for a walking safari in Africa is a pair of good walking shoes. But don't rush off to buy a brand new pair and throw it in your luggage without walking them in first. You want to be sure that you can travel for many kilometres without pesky blisters or any major discomfort that could hold you back.
Quality hiking boots are essential when deciding what to pack for a walking safari, Image Credit: Rhino Walking Safari
4. Gaiters
Gaiters are like sleeves to protect your shoes from dust and keep debris out of them.
5. Headlamp
Having a headlamp on hand is always useful for visibility in the evenings and for your general safety when moving around in the dark.
6. Walking Stick
A great walking companion, it will prove to be especially useful when ascending or descending steep hills.
Mornings can be chilly, but as the sun rises, layering lets you adapt with ease, Image Credit: John's Camp
Packed? Now, Get Prepped!
So, you've got your walking safari packing list sorted – comfy clothes, sturdy boots, and enough sunscreen to survive the African sun. But before you set off on foot into the wild, you might have a few questions. We’ve been on countless walking safaris across Africa, so let’s get straight into it.
1. Are Walking Safaris Worth It?
If you're the kind of traveller who wants to feel Africa in your bones, then absolutely. A walking safari makes you hyper-aware of your surroundings – the crunch of dry grass underfoot, the scent of wild sage in the air, the distant roar of a lion. You’ll realise just how much you miss when you're whizzing past in a vehicle. It’s not about chasing down the Big 5 but rather appreciating everything, from the tiniest dung beetle to the towering giraffe.
That being said, if you’re after instant gratification – aka spotting a leopard in five minutes flat – you might prefer a traditional game drive. But if you love the idea of slowing down and soaking in the details, a walking safari is unbeatable.
We will make sure your luxury African safari is the most memorable experience of your lifetime, Image Credit: Little Governors' Camp
2. Where is the Best Place for a Walking Safari?
Some of Africa’s best safari destinations offer incredible walking experiences. Here are a few standout spots:
- South Luangwa National Park, Zambia – The birthplace of the walking safari and still one of the best places to do it. The wildlife is abundant, the landscapes are breathtaking, and the guides are world-class.
- The Greater Kruger, South Africa – Kruger and its surrounding private reserves offer phenomenal walking safaris, where you can track big game on foot in a controlled, safe environment.
- Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe – One of the few places where you can walk freely (with a guide, of course). This park is famous for its elephant encounters and incredible scenery.
- Okavango Delta, Botswana – Walk on remote islands surrounded by water, spotting everything from lions to hippos and dazzling birdlife.
Each of these destinations offers something unique, so choosing the best one depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If you're keen to dive deeper into the world of walking safaris, take a look at our Top 5 Walking Safaris in Africa blog, where we explore some of the finest foot-based adventures on the continent.
Long-sleeved shirts and breathable fabrics keep you comfortable on a walking safari adventure, Image Credit: Simbavati Trails Camp
3. What Age Can You Go on a Walking Safari?
Most walking safaris have a minimum age requirement, usually between 12 and 16 years old, depending on the location and the lodge. This is mainly for safety – after all, the last thing you want is a curious five-year-old charging towards a buffalo.
That said, some lodges offer shorter, family-friendly bush walks for younger kids, focusing more on tracking small creatures and learning about plants rather than big game encounters. If you’re travelling as a family, let our Travel Experts know, and we’ll find the best option for you.
Family-friendly bush walks let young explorers learn about tracking and nature in a safe environment, Image Credit: African Bush Camps
Ready for Your Walking Safari in Africa?
A walking safari isn't just another activity to tick off your list – it’s one of the most thrilling, humbling, and unforgettable ways to experience Africa. So, now that you know what to expect, all that’s left to do is lace up your boots and hit the trail. Ready to swap four wheels for two feet? Contact our Travel Experts today, and we’ll tailor-make your dream African walking safari!
