Going on safari in South Africa with Pride Adventures isn’t just a vacation—it’s a full-on experience. You’ll wake before the sun, sip coffee as lions yawn in the golden light, cruise through the bush on open-air vehicles, and wind down the day with a glass of Pinotage under the stars. But to truly enjoy every wild, wonderful moment—you’ve got to pack smart.
Our team, along with our partners at G Adventures and National Geographic Journeys, have compiled some tried-and-true tips to help you arrive prepared, not overloaded. Here’s your insider’s guide to what to pack (and what to skip) for your June safari adventure.
🌅 DO: Dress for the Wild (in Layers)
Early mornings = chilly. You’ll be waking with the animals—literally. Game drives start around sunrise when the savanna is cold and crisp. Think lightweight fleece or insulated jacket, long pants, and a beanie or buff to keep warm.
Midday = warm and sunny. Once the sun is up, the temperature climbs quickly. Make sure your base layers are breathable and easy to shed. A zip-up fleece and quick-dry shirt combo works wonders.
Pro Tip from G Adventures: “Avoid heavy winter coats. You won’t need them. It’s all about layering. Soft-shell jackets, thin sweaters, and a good base layer system are perfect for June.”
🦓 DON’T: Pack Your Brightest Outfits
It’s not Coachella—it’s Kruger.
Leave the neon behind. Animals notice movement and bright colors, which can disrupt your game-viewing (and everyone else’s too). Stick with earth tones: olive, tan, brown, and dusty greens. They help you blend in and stay bug-free.
Pride Adventures Reminder: “You’re not trying to go viral on safari—you’re trying to go invisible. That’s when the magic happens.”
🌧️ DO: Prepare for Rain in Cape Town
Cape Town in June? Beautiful—but moody.
You might get sunshine, but you might also get wind and rain. Be ready with a packable rain jacket, a light sweater, and non-slip shoes. The Winelands tend to be drier and more predictable, so you can relax a bit—but still bring that extra layer for the evenings.
NatGeo Guide Tip: “We always recommend travelers bring a waterproof shell they can use in the city or on trail. The key is versatility.”
🧳 DON’T: Overpack. Safari Lodges Have You Covered
We know—it’s tempting to bring it all. But trust us: you won’t wear most of it. Most safari lodges offer daily laundry service, and you’ll be in relaxed, functional clothes 90% of the time.
Skip: fancy shoes, hair dryers, multiple jeans
Bring: one nice outfit for Winelands dinners, comfortable slip-ons for lodge downtime, a wide-brimmed hat
📸 DO: Think Beyond the Lens
Yes, bring your camera (or your phone with zoom). But also remember binoculars, a power bank, and a daypack to keep everything organized on game drives.
And most importantly? Don’t just view it through a lens. Put the camera down sometimes and just be present. The sound of elephants chewing, the silence of sunrise… nothing compares.
🐘 DON’T: Forget the Safari Etiquette
Packing the right gear also means packing the right attitude. Here’s a few quick what-not-to-do’s from our guides:
- Don’t talk loudly on drives—you’ll scare the wildlife away.
- Don’t wear heavy perfume or cologne—it confuses animal senses.
- Don’t expect a zoo—this is the wild. Patience is key.
- Don’t forget to tip your guides—they make the magic happen.
Safari Pro Insight: “Your guide isn’t just a driver—they’re a tracker, a wildlife expert, and often your new best friend. Show them some love.”
✅ Bonus Packing Checklist (with the Adventure Edge)
- Fleece jacket or insulated layer
- Light rain jacket (Cape Town can get wet!)
- Moisture-wicking shirts and long-sleeves
- Neutral-colored pants (convertibles are great)
- Wide-brimmed hat & sunglasses
- Sunscreen & lip balm (yes, even in winter)
- Daypack for game drives
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera or phone with zoom
- Binoculars
- Plug adapter (South Africa uses Type M)
- Personal meds + basic first-aid
- Journal (trust us—you’ll want to write this stuff down)
Final Word: Adventure Awaits
South Africa in June is a magical experience—from the unpredictable charm of Cape Town to the majestic stillness of the bush. By packing smart and embracing the rhythm of safari life, you’ll be ready for every breathtaking moment.
🐾 Get all the trip details here: prideadventuretravel.com/south-africa-with-pride
