What to Pack for a Safari with Gentle Giants Safaris

Planning a once-in-a-lifetime safari in East Africa? Whether you're trekking endangered mountain gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda, or spotting lions and elephants on the savannah, packing smart is key. At Gentle Giants Safaris, we’ve crafted this comprehensive packing list to help you prepare for your journey through Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

👚 What to Wear on Safari

When traveling with Gentle Giants Safaris, we recommend lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors that blend with nature and protect you from the sun and insects.

Clothing Essentials:

• 2–3 long-sleeved shirts (light and quick-dry)
• 2–3 pairs of long trousers (safari or hiking pants)
• 2–3 t-shirts or short-sleeved shirts
• 1–2 pairs of shorts
• Fleece or sweater for chilly mornings
• Light waterproof jacket or raincoat
• Comfortable evening wear for lodges

Footwear:

• Sturdy hiking boots (essential for gorilla trekking)
• Trail shoes or comfortable walking shoes
• Flip-flops or sandals for relaxing at camp

🧢 Accessories

• Wide-brim hat or cap
• Sunglasses (UV-protected)
• Lightweight scarf or buff (great for dusty roads)
• Gloves (for gorilla trekking—nettles are common!)

🎒 Daypack Essentials

• Comfortable daypack or small backpack
• Dry bags or Ziplocs for electronics
• Refillable water bottle or hydration bladder
• Travel pillow for longer drives
• Notebook or safari journal

🧼 Toiletries & Personal Care

At Gentle Giants Safaris, we encourage eco-friendly, biodegradable products wherever possible.

• Biodegradable soap and shampoo
• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Quick-dry towel
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
• Insect repellent (DEET-based or natural)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Wet wipes & hand sanitizer
• Menstrual products (if applicable)
• Basic grooming items (nail clippers, razor, etc.)

🦟 Health & First Aid

• Malaria tablets (consult your doctor)
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate (required)
• Personal medications
• Compact first aid kit with:

• • Plasters, antiseptic cream

  • Pain relievers

  • Anti-diarrheal and anti-nausea meds

  • Rehydration salts

  • Antihistamines

📷 Safari Gear

Make the most of your wildlife experiences with the right gear:

• DSLR or mirrorless camera with zoom lens
• Extra batteries and memory cards
• Binoculars (a must for game viewing)
• Power bank and USB charging cables
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Universal plug adapter (Type G in Uganda, Type C in Rwanda/Kenya)

📄 Travel Documents

Gentle Giants Safaris will help guide you through visa and permit processes, but be sure to pack:

• Valid passport (6+ months validity)
• Printed visas or confirmation emails (e-visas)
• East African Tourist Visa (if visiting multiple countries)
• Yellow fever certificate
• Safari itinerary and lodge confirmations (we'll send this)
• Travel insurance documents
• USD cash (small denominations for tips/souvenirs)
• Credit/debit card (Visa/MasterCard preferred)

🦍 Gorilla Trekking Must-Haves

For clients joining our signature gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda or Rwanda, these items are especially important:

• Gardening gloves (to protect hands from nettles)
• Gaiters or long socks to tuck your pants in
• Lightweight rain poncho or rain gear
• Trekking poles (optional—available locally too)
• Extra t-shirt (you’ll likely get sweaty!)

🧸 Optional but Useful

• Swimsuit (some lodges have pools or spas)
• Small laundry kit (detergent, travel clothesline)
• Book or e-reader
• Healthy snacks or energy bars
• Reusable shopping bag
• Travel locks for your luggage