“What should I wear on safari?”
It’s one of the most common questions we get at YPA… and honestly it’s a great question! Because yes, packing for safari has to be practical, but that doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice style. We’re big believers that you can absolutely feel comfy and look cute in the bush. (A wide-brim hat here, or matching linen set there…you get it.)
Packing for safari should be fun, not stressful which is why we’re here to equip our YPA guests with all the resources they need to feel fully clued up. Nick & Ashley’s personal tips for what to pack, What to Wear on Safari, How to Prepare for your Gorilla Trek and Smart safari packing articles are all up on our blog. Not to mention when you book with us, we’ll send you detailed, downloadable packing lists for both ladies and gents (including a gorilla trekking-specific list if you’re headed to Rwanda or Uganda).
We’ve also created a bit of visual inspiration to help you find that sweet spot between functionality and flair.
The YPA Safari Style boards are filled with pieces we actually wear and pack, including links to our favorite brands and go-to items for African travel.
Think Lululemon for comfort, Banana Republic for chic, Blundstone and Allbirds for practicality, Patagonia for sportiness, Quince for your beautiful linens and GAP for the little ones. You’ll find many of these items coming up time and again on our various packing lists, one thing is important to remember, simple is better.
Our Favorite Safari Color Scheme
We know that striking the right balance can be tricky. Whether you’re game-driving at dawn, sundowner-ing in the savannah, or trekking through the forests in search of gorillas, it’s nice to have items that can be used interchangeably. Neutral tones that mix and match easily are your best friend, they let you pack less, which is key when everything needs to fit into your soft-sided duffel.
If classic neutrals aren’t quite your style, tones like mustard, olive, and rusty brown are perfect alternatives, they echo the natural palette of the bush and help you blend in. That said, don’t be afraid to add a touch of personality: a little Maasai red goes a long way, and these days, leopard print is practically a neutral…so don’t hold back.
Head to our YPA Pinterest board for a few curated looks we’re currently loving.
And don’t be surprised if your YPA hat and Patagonia jacket become your go-to gear for every game drive. We hope you love them, this little meerkat certainly did.
We’re not just here to plan your trip—we’re here to help you travel in style, and by style we mean…
