What To Pack For A Green Season Safari

If you're going on a green season or summer safari, some extra packing rules apply.

The green season is a term for the hot, rainy - often summer - months on safari. Some safari areas close at this time of year as camps become inaccessible and roads become impassable. For those safari areas that operate during this time, however, there are a few unique perks to green season safari travel.

Why You Should Go On A Green Season Safari

• Peak season is over. This means there is the potential for you to enjoy some typically very busy and popular destinations without the crowds. Nothing beats the feeling of remoteness and exclusivity on safari - and this usually comes at a more affordable price.
• Going green. We encourage you to see Africa in as many ways and shades as possible. The rains transform plains and vegetation into a gorgeous emerald green in many areas.
• Moody photographs. If you're passionate about photography, the moody, stormy summer skies are a photographer's dream. Just add wildlife.
• The miracle of new life. While game viewing tends to be a little harder in the green season months, the rains and improved grazing make conditions ideal for calving for many wildlife species. Baby animals are around in abundance - and this can mean predators.
• Exciting species for birdwatchers. The summer months bring an array of seasonally prolific bird species. These include migrants and water birds.
• Migration action. The short rains in East Africa usually cause the wildebeest and zebra of the Great Migration to move south. The green season also triggers the zebra migration from Chobe to Nxai Pan in Botswana and from the Okavango to Makgadikgadi.

What To Pack For A Green Season Safari: Packing Advice

1. Prepare for potentially very hot temperatures. Temperatures can soar during the summer months. Packing for the heat is essential to stay comfortable while you enjoy your safari adventures. Pack lightweight, wicking safari clothing with built-in sun protection. Opt for long-sleeved shirts and zip-off trousers, so you can cover up as needed to protect yourself from the sun. Add a reliable sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat to prevent burns and protect your skin from burns.

Read our detailed safari clothing advice.

2. The rain brings bugs. Whether you're protecting yourself in a malaria area or simply don't want the nuisance of summer bugs, cover up in BUGTech™ clothing and pack a reliable insect repellent. We recommend DEET-based Australian-made repellent like Bushman - and avoid blue and dark coloured clothing, especially in tsetse areas.

3. Don't get drenched (or cold). Nothing puts a dampener on a game drive like a downpour on the back of an open game-viewer. Some lodges provide waterproofs, but it is a good idea to play it safe by tucking a packable waterproof jacket or poncho and over-trousers into your daypack for outings. The hotter it is during the day, the earlier the start for game drives to try and catch a glimpse of predator action before they melt into the shade. It can get surprisingly chilly - even during hot times of year. A waterproof jacket is a good windbreaker and, together with a fleece jacket, you will be well-prepared for anytime it gets cold.

4. Don't forget the binoculars. A pair of high-quality binoculars are the number one essential on any safari. If roads are impassable during a green season safari, don't miss the action of wildlife in the distance or the magnificent migratory birds. We recommend one pair of binoculars per person.

Read our full safari packing advice, and view our safari packing list.