A 20-day tour through South Africa, Zimbabwe and Zambia takes you from the cosmopolitan streets of Cape Town to the thundering spray of Victoria Falls and the golden savanna of Kruger. Each region brings different weather, different terrain and different packing needs. Getting your bag right before departure means you spend less time worrying and more time watching elephants stroll past your safari vehicle.
Explore the full 20-day South Africa and Victoria Falls tour itinerary with Approach Tours.
This South Africa safari packing list covers everything you need, from game drives in the bush to seaside walks in Cape Town and the spray-soaked viewpoints at Victoria Falls, with practical advice for every stage of the 20-day tour across three countries.
Safari Clothing: What to Wear on Game Drives
On a game drive, the right clothing makes the experience safer and more comfortable. Animals are sensitive to bright colours and strong scents, so what you wear matters more than you might expect.
- Neutral-coloured clothing: Stick to khaki, olive, tan, brown and beige. Avoid white (it glares in the sun and gets dirty instantly), black and navy (they attract tsetse flies) and bright colours (they can startle wildlife). Earth tones help you blend into the landscape.
- Lightweight long-sleeved shirts: 3 to 4 shirts in breathable fabric. Long sleeves protect against sun, insects and thorny branches during bush walks. Look for shirts with UPF sun protection built in.
- Long trousers: 2 to 3 pairs of lightweight cargo or hiking trousers. Convertible trousers with zip-off legs offer flexibility for hot afternoons. Avoid shorts on game drives, as vehicles pass through tall grass and brush.
- A warm fleece or jacket: Early morning and evening game drives can be surprisingly cold. Temperatures in the South African bush drop to 5 to 10 degrees Celsius before dawn, even during summer months. A fleece layered under a windbreaker keeps you comfortable in open vehicles.
- A wide-brimmed hat: Essential for daytime drives and bush walks. Choose one with a chin strap to keep it secure in open vehicles at speed.
A good rule of thumb: dress in layers. The temperature difference between a pre-dawn game drive and a midday stop can be 20 degrees or more.
What to Wear at Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, creates a permanent rain cloud from its spray. Standing at certain viewpoints, you will get thoroughly soaked, especially between February and July when water levels are highest. The Zimbabwean side offers closer viewpoints with more spray; the Zambian side gives wider panoramic views.
- A waterproof jacket or poncho: This is non-negotiable. The spray from the falls can drench you within seconds. A lightweight packable rain jacket works well and dries quickly.
- Quick-dry clothing: Wear synthetic fabrics rather than cotton. Cotton stays wet and heavy. A quick-dry shirt and trousers let you continue sightseeing comfortably after the viewpoints.
- Waterproof bag or pouch: Protect your phone, camera and passport. A dry bag or waterproof phone case is a small investment that prevents expensive damage. Some travellers use simple zip-lock bags in a pinch.
- Sturdy sandals or water shoes: The paths near the falls are slippery and wet. Sport sandals with good grip are ideal. You will not want to soak your only pair of walking shoes.
Packing for Cape Town’s Variable Weather
Cape Town sits at the southern tip of Africa where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet, creating weather that can shift several times in a single day. Locals have a saying: “If you don’t like the weather, wait fifteen minutes.” Even in summer (December to February), a warm morning at the V&A Waterfront can turn into a breezy afternoon on Table Mountain. Winter months (June to August) bring rain and temperatures between 8 and 18 degrees Celsius.
- Layers: A combination of t-shirts, a long-sleeved top and a medium-weight jacket covers most conditions. A fleece and a wind-resistant outer layer handle the changeable weather on Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula.
- Smart-casual evening wear: Cape Town has a vibrant restaurant scene, and your farewell dinner and welcome cocktails deserve a slightly elevated outfit. Nothing formal is needed. A nice blouse or button-down shirt with clean trousers or a dress works for every restaurant on the itinerary.
- Swimwear: Some hotels in the Cape Winelands and along the Garden Route have pools. The beaches at Camps Bay and Clifton are gorgeous, though the Atlantic water is bracingly cold (12 to 16 degrees Celsius year-round).
Footwear for Three Countries
Your feet cover a lot of ground over 20 days, from cobblestone streets in Cape Town’s Bo-Kaap neighbourhood to dirt paths in Kruger and wet trails at Victoria Falls. Pack with variety in mind.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Your single most important item. Choose closed-toe shoes with ankle support and good grip. You will wear these on game drives, nature walks, city tours and the Victoria Falls rainforest trail. Break them in before the tour.
- Sport sandals: Sturdy sandals with straps (not flip-flops) for warm afternoons, pool areas, Victoria Falls spray zone and casual evenings.
- Evening shoes: One pair of comfortable smart shoes or flats. Cape Town dinners and hotel restaurants call for something a step above hiking boots.
Three pairs total. Shoes are the heaviest items in any bag, so resist the temptation to bring a fourth pair. If your walking shoes are new, take them for several long walks at home before departure to avoid blisters during the first game drive.
Sun and Insect Protection
South Africa’s UV index is high year-round, and the bush areas bring mosquitoes and other insects, particularly in the evenings and during the wetter months.
- Sunscreen: SPF 50 or higher, water-resistant. The sun in the Southern Hemisphere feels stronger than many Canadians expect, and sunburn on a game drive vehicle with no roof is miserable.
- Insect repellent: DEET-based repellent (30% or higher concentration) is recommended for safari areas. Apply it on exposed skin during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Some areas of South Africa (particularly Kruger) are in a malaria zone, so consult your doctor about antimalarial medication before travelling.
- A buff or neck gaiter: Versatile and lightweight. Use it as sun protection, a dust shield on bumpy safari roads, or an extra layer of warmth on cold mornings.
- Lip balm with SPF: The combination of dry bush air and strong sun chaps lips quickly.
Read our Kruger weather guide to plan around rainfall and safari conditions.
Binoculars and Camera Gear
A safari without binoculars is like a concert without sound. You will use them constantly, from spotting a leopard lounging on a distant branch to watching a fish eagle dive into the Chobe River. Binoculars also help you appreciate the remarkable birdlife: South Africa is home to over 850 bird species. If you own a pair, bring them. If not, consider a compact 8×42 or 10×42 pair, available at any outdoor shop for a reasonable price.
- Camera with zoom: A camera with at least a 200mm zoom lens captures wildlife at a distance. If you prefer your phone, a clip-on telephoto lens attachment is a lightweight alternative.
- Extra memory cards and batteries: A single morning game drive can produce hundreds of photos. Bring at least two spare memory cards and a second battery.
- A dust-proof camera bag: Safari roads are dusty. A padded bag with a good zip protects your gear between game drives.
- Portable charger: Keep your phone and camera alive during long days when power outlets are hours away.
Health, Toiletries and Comfort Items
- Prescription medications: Bring more than enough for the full 20 days, plus extras for potential delays. Keep them in original packaging. Carry a copy of your prescription.
- Antimalarial medication: Consult your travel health clinic at least 6 weeks before departure. Kruger National Park falls within a malaria risk area. Your doctor will advise on the right prescription for your health profile.
- Basic first-aid kit: Plasters, antiseptic wipes, blister patches, anti-diarrhea tablets, rehydration sachets and pain relief.
- Hand sanitizer: Useful at rest stops, outdoor markets and bush camps.
- Moisturizer: The dry air of the bush and the air-conditioned coach can leave skin parched.
- Reusable water bottle: Your Group Guru ensures water is always available on the coach, but a personal bottle keeps you hydrated during excursions.
Electronics and Power
- Power adapter: South Africa uses Type M plugs (the large three-pin round socket), which are unique to southern Africa. Zimbabwe and Zambia use Type G (UK-style three-pin). Bring a universal travel adapter that covers both, or carry one of each. You will need these from Day 1.
- Headlamp or small torch: Useful in safari lodges where lighting is dim and paths between rooms are unlit after dark. A small LED headlamp weighs almost nothing.
- Noise-cancelling headphones: For long coach rides and flights.
What Not to Pack for a Safari Tour
- Bright or white clothing: It spooks wildlife and attracts insects. Leave the neon and white at home.
- Heavy perfume or cologne: Strong scents attract bees and mosquitoes and can disturb animals at close range.
- Too many formal outfits: The tour atmosphere is relaxed. One smart-casual evening outfit is sufficient for welcome and farewell dinners.
- Excessive luggage: A soft-sided bag weighing under 20 kg is ideal. Hard-shell cases are difficult on safari transfers and small aircraft (if applicable). Remember, your door-to-door airport service handles your bags from your doorstep, so they just need to manage the tour transfers.
- Drone: Drones are prohibited in most national parks in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Zambia. Leave it home.
The Complete Safari Packing Checklist
| Category | Items | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Safari clothing | Neutral long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, warm fleece | 3-4 shirts, 2-3 trousers, 1 fleece |
| Cape Town | Layers, smart-casual evening outfit, swimwear | 1-2 layers, 1 evening, 1 swimsuit |
| Victoria Falls | Waterproof jacket, quick-dry clothes, waterproof pouch | 1 each |
| Footwear | Walking shoes, sport sandals, evening shoes | 1 each (3 total) |
| Protection | SPF 50+ sunscreen, DEET repellent, hat, buff, sunglasses | As needed |
| Optics | Binoculars, camera with zoom, extra cards/batteries | 1 each |
| Health | Prescriptions, antimalarials, first-aid kit, hand sanitizer | As needed |
| Electronics | Universal adapter, portable charger, headlamp, headphones | 1-2 adapters, 1 each other |
| Documents | Passport, visa (Zimbabwe), insurance info, prescription copies | Originals + copies |
With the right gear in your bag, you can focus on what matters: the thrill of spotting the Big Five in Kruger, the mist rising off Victoria Falls at sunrise and the golden light spreading across the Cape Winelands in the late afternoon. A well-packed bag is the first step to a trip you will remember for the rest of your life.
View the full 20-day South Africa and Victoria Falls itinerary, departure dates and pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What colours should you avoid on a safari?
Avoid white (it glares and gets dirty), black and navy (they attract tsetse flies), and bright or neon colours (they can startle wildlife). Stick to neutral earth tones: khaki, olive, tan and brown.
Do I need antimalarial medication for South Africa?
Parts of South Africa, including Kruger National Park, fall within a malaria risk zone. Consult your travel health clinic at least 6 weeks before departure. Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate medication based on your health history.
What plug adapter do I need for South Africa?
South Africa uses Type M plugs (large three-pin round). Zimbabwe and Zambia use Type G (UK-style). A universal travel adapter is the simplest solution. Bring at least two so you can charge multiple devices.
How much luggage can I bring on a safari tour?
A soft-sided bag under 20 kg is recommended. Hard-shell suitcases are difficult on safari vehicle transfers. Approach Tours’ all-inclusive package includes luggage porterage throughout, so your bags move from hotel to hotel without you lifting them.
What is included on Approach Tours’ South Africa tour?
The 20-day South Africa and Victoria Falls tour includes return flights from Canadian gateways, first-class hotels throughout, all 57 meals, a private home pick-up service, game drives, entrance fees, tips for all service providers, a dedicated Group Guru and $5 million in emergency travel insurance through Manulife. The per-person price starts at $13,595 CAD in double occupancy.
