WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR MOTSWARI SAFARI

Whether you are visiting your favourite safari destination, Motswari, for 3 days or a week, this guided list of things to pack will ensure you bring the essentials only and not the entire house. It’s that in-between time of year again where its super warm during the days but still chilly early mornings and late evenings. We can see that the end of winter is in sight with spring slowly peeking out from behind the clouds and grey skies.  Flowers are starting to bloom, trees are slowly regaining that bright green colour and temperatures are swiftly rising. In not knowing whether to dress for winter or summer, the below list will hopefully guide your packing choices and provide an insight into what you can expect.

1. Probably one of the most essential items to pack would be comfortable closed shoes.

Keeping in mind that one generally gets of the vehicle to enjoy morning and sundowner drinks in the bush, closed shoes provide that security and comfort you need. Not forgetting that safari walks could also be a possibility should you choose to do one.

2. Layers, layers, layers

With temperatures fluctuating several times a day, layers are your best friend. Pack clothes that are easily removable should you be getting hot – short sleeves, sweaters, preferably outdoor pants that are able to zip into shorts, summer scarf/bandanna, wide-brim hat (critical) etcetera. The most important thing to remember is comfort! Any clothing that makes you feel comfortable and is easy to move around in is always a winner. Also, do pack a warm jacket in case evenings get a little cold.

3. Sunscreen

Vital to remember is sunscreen. The sun is brutal out here, come summer or winter. One can easily get burned if not used to the African heat and sun. Rather be safe than sorry!

4. Chapstick

This may not be on the top of everyone’s list, but believe me its essential. The air out here, especially during winter, is exceptionally dry. One’s lips do take the brunt of it when you in the sun for 6 hours a day with game drives. Make sure those lips are nice and moist, you will thank us later.

5. Sunglasses

Many are unable to join safari without their best pair of sunglasses. This is quite crucial, as with the sunscreen situation, sunglasses are a must for the protection of your eyes.

6. Although placed at number six, this one is key – binoculars.

Not many people understand just how much a pair of binoculars enhance a safari experience. You do not need the top of the range binocs, but having this piece of equipment can significantly add to the overall experience. Spotting a leopard in the distance in a tree and then seeing it through a pair of binoculars makes all the difference.

Optional: Please do bring your camera if you so desire! I’m sure you would love to create a fantastic safari album of all your best shots once back at home. Bug spray, we do supply this in your room as well as on game drive. However, if you are a little nervous for those mozzies, please do bring your own. Malaria medication – we are in a low risk area, however if it makes you feel at ease and comfortable to take prescribed medication from your doctor, do so. Bathing suit, it’s getting really hot these days, don’t forget that swimming costume, our pool is looking very inviting! Often times you may have to walk in the dark to get somewhere throughout the camp, although we have a night watch who will walk you to and from your room, a light weight torch is never a bad idea to carry on you. Also, a good book for those avid readers! There’s no place like the bush to read that book you’ve always wanted to, but had no time for. We do however have a gallery at Motswari, so you are more than welcome to pick up a new read over there.

For many of you novice safari goers, we hope this list provides some clarity as to what to bring. It’s very basic, but will make the world of difference once you are here with us. For those veteran safari travellers, we are sure you know just what to pack! But, just in case you were wondering, we hope you find this list useful as well.