What to wear on a Cape Town day safari

What should you wear on a day safari?

Comfortable layers in neutral colours: a T-shirt, a long-sleeved top or fleece, and a windproof jacket you can take off.

Khaki, olive, grey and beige are the classic choice: they show less dust and blend in better than white or neon. Long trousers or comfortable shorts both work on a day drive.

How cold is it on the game drive?

Colder than you expect from May to September: Karoo mornings are chilly and the open vehicles are windy.

Winter reviewers mention being cold on the open truck even with the blankets the reserve hands out. One wished they had gone in summer. A warm jacket, a hat and even gloves are worth packing in winter.

And in summer?

Hot and dry: sun protection matters more than warmth from December to February.

Wear a wide-brimmed hat that will not blow off, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen, and keep a light long-sleeved shirt for shade. Drink plenty of water.

Which shoes are best?

Closed, comfortable shoes or trainers: you mostly sit, but you will climb into a high vehicle and walk around the lodge and winery.

Hiking boots are not needed. Avoid flip-flops for climbing on and off the vehicle.

What should you pack?

A small day bag with the essentials; you will leave it in the vehicle at stops.

• Warm layer and windproof jacket
• Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
• Binoculars
• Camera or phone with zoom, plus a spare battery
• Water bottle
• Card or rand for the park fee (if not included), drinks and tips
• Any medication you need during a ten-hour day

Rather not carry cash for the park fee? This tour includes it, with lunch and a three-hour drive.

★ 4.4 181 reviews · 8 hours · from $305

Explore the all-inclusive Aquila safari →

Do you need binoculars?

Strongly recommended: animals are often close, but birds and distant herds are not.

Aquila lists over 170 bird species. One pair per two people is usually enough on a shared vehicle.

Any photo tips?

Use a zoom, keep your elbows inside, and ask your ranger before standing up.

Morning and late-afternoon light is the most flattering.

What about dust, wind and rain?

A light scarf or buff helps with dust and wind; a packable rain jacket covers the odd shower.

Game drives run in most weather. Heavy rain and strong wind make the dirt roads rougher and the vehicle colder. Most tours here cancel free up to 24 hours before if the forecast looks bad.

Frequently asked questions