Safaris in Botswana with Special Interest Holidays

What to Take

What to take is always the 100 dollar question. If you are transferring between safari camps by "light" aircraft you have to travel "light". Most private charter companies limit you to 10 – 12 kg which must be packed in a small squashable bag. Don't even think about taking your Samsonite. It is not just a case of paying for excess baggage it just will not fit into the small baggage compartment and you will end up on safari in what you stand up in. Arrangements can of course be made to leave your "steamer trunk" at a base before going on safari. Most camps and lodges have an excellent laundry service so you really do not need to take very much clothing. Generally this is hand washed and sometimes ironed with an old fashioned "flat iron" heated on a fire. With this in mind there are the occasional accidents so don't take expensive clothes.

Light and loose fitting cotton safari clothes are the key. In towns gentlemen should wear trousers and ladies should not wear short skirts. In the safari camps the dress code is very much more relaxed. Large ponchos are provided for drives at most camps in the rainy season but it may be an idea to take a light weight cagoule. Don't forget swim wear for the safari camp plunge pools. Clothing should be dull in colour and provide protection from the sun. Even if this is your first safari don't broadcast it with your brand new purposely purchased safari outfit. You will lose street credibility from minute one. Pay someone to wear it in for you! The animals do not like to see bright colours but leave any camouflaged clothing at home unless you would like an interview from the police or military. You could be suspected of being a gunrunner, poacher or an army deserter. If you intend to go walking light weight walking boots are desirable. These should have ankle support as some paths are rough and also they protect from snake or scorpion bites. Other items to consider:

• A squashable safari hat with a brim
• Good sunglasses
• A camera (of course) plenty of film or large storage capacity and spare batteries
• Binoculars
• Sunblock – essential
• A small torch
• Medical kit including; sting-ease, paracetamol, immodium and diarolyte
• Insect repellent
• Large plastic bin liners to protect clothes against rain or dust

Arriving at Little Kwara Aiport.
The pilot checks the aircraft while the ground crew unload it.