Due to baggage restrictions, it’s wise to keep your packing list to a minimum. Here is your a basic list, designed to outfit you head-to-toe on your daily game drives. In general, you’re looking for lightweight, breathable fabrics that can outlast the hot sun. During your trip, you’ll need at least:

• 1 utility jacket
• 1 pullover sweater
• 3 short sleeve shirts
• 3 long sleeve shirts
• 2 cargo pants
• 2 cargo shorts
• 1 dress or romper
• 1 pair of hiking boots
• 1 pair of sandals
• 1 wide-brimmed hat
• 1 beanie
• 1 pair of gloves
• 10 pairs of socks, bras, and underwear
• 1 pair of sunglasses

Below, you’ll find my personal recommendations in each category. Clothes I personally wore (and loved) on my safari excursion through the Okavango Delta.

 

1 Utility Jacket

You’ll wear this jacket just about everywhere! Since the weather in the Okavango Delta can vary, it’s essential to have a jacket that can handle both the heat and the cold. Personally, I’d look for a jacket with a lot of pockets, so you can easily access your snack bars, phone, and various knick-knacks on the go. The L.L. Bean Jacket is a classic go-to, given it’s built-in-stretch fabric that lets you move easily.

 

1 Pullover Sweater

A simple sweater is all you need. This sweater will be essential for your early morning (and freezing cold) game drives. Before the sun comes up, the Okavango Delta air temperature is like a sheet of ice, waiting to dethaw. The items I’ve linked below are extra soft, too, so you can cozy up at night.

 

 

3 Short-Sleeve Shirts

This layerable essential will allow you to adjust to the heat as the day goes on. Once the morning sun rises, you can take off your cozy sweater and keep on your tank top and long-sleeved shirt. Your short-sleeve shirts are less protective, so they serve more for cooling purposes than repelling the sun, bugs, or elements.

 

 

3 Long-Sleeved Shirts

I highly recommend a long-sleeved shirts sealed with UPF 50 sun protection, which will save you from burning in the hot sun! Don’t underestimate the power of the sun’s rays in this part of the world. You’ll be out all day on long game drives, so you’ll wan tot prepare accordingly. Plus, long-sleeved shirts keep the bugs off of you (a win-win).

 

 

2 Cargo Pants

The right pair of cargo pants will last you an entire trip. Focus on pants with multiple pockets, so you can have miscellaneous items you 24/7. These items could be an extra bottle of bug spray, hair ties, snack bars, or a pocket knife. Since cargo pants are suitable for various weather conditions, they’re a great addition to your suitcase. Many cargo pants also feature zip-off legs, so you can convert them into shorts when it gets too hot.

 

 

2 Cargo Shorts

If you’re not worried about the bugs, throw in a pair of cargo shorts. There will be days you want to dress lighter, given the hot temperatures. Cargo shorts are perfect for hiking, walking, or casual days at camp.

 

 

1 Dress or Romper

Personally, I love dresses. I’d pack five if I could, but that’s not practical for the Okavango Delta. I recommend picking your favorite dress or romper made out of lightweight, breathable fabric like cotton or linen. Save it for a special occasion!

 

 

1 Pair of Hiking Boots

I wore Birkenstocks 90% of the time, but there were days I required tennis shoes or hiking shoes for hiking excursions. Don’t make the mistake of leaving out hiking shoes from your suitcase. Closed-toe shoes will protect your feet from viscous thorns and debris on the ground, keeping your feet safe and comfortable all day long.

 

1 Pair of Sandals

Sandals are perfect for camp, or game drives, where you’re rarely exiting the vehicle. I heavily relied on my Birkenstocks, given that they’re cork footbed can withstand all of the thorns in the Okavango Delta. They didn’t fail me once!

 

 

1 Wide-Brimmed Hat

A hat is an absolute necessity. When you’re staring out at the delta all day long, your eyes grow tired. A hat helps keep your eyes shaded, so your sunglasses are even more effective. Hats also provide valuable sun protection, so please purchase a hat or cap before traveling to the Okavango Delta.

 

 

1 Beanie

On cool mornings and cool nights, you’ll need extra layers to keep your body warm. Every night, on my 10 Day Okavango Delta Trip, I donned my beanie in front of my group’s campfire, feeling more like I was on a camping trip than a safari. My beanie did its job and I was rarely cold.

 

 

1 Pair of Gloves

The same policy as the beanie: be prepared for cold weather. Gloves are an additional accessory to have on hand. I personally wore mine in the mornings when on game drives.

 

 

10 Pairs of Socks, Bras & Underwear

Don’t forget to pack these! Your trip will be terrible, otherwise. I listed ten pairs to be safe, but I know people who packed as little as three, and as many as fifteen, depending on their access to laundry. Some safari excursions allow for laundry while others do not. If you do not have access to laundry for a week, I’d recommend packing one personal item per day. For the average trip of seven days, a safe amount is seven pairs each.

 

 

1 Pair of Sunglasses

Lastly, the sunnies. You’ll need these, otherwise your eyes will suffer. Pack the right pair with UV protection and you can take in all of the beauty of the Okavango Delta without sunburning your eyes.

 

 

An Additional Note

Of course, there are certain items I haven’t listed. Dependent on where you’re going, you may need certain medications, travel documents, or protective equipment. The following options are my recommendations, so I recommend consulting with your tour guide for a more comprehensive list that suits your particular safari:

• Mosquito protection: You may want to pack mosquito repellent, mosquito netting, and insect-repellent clothing (e.g., shirts, pants treated with permethrin).
• Swimwear: If there’s any probability you’ll swim, throw in a swimsuit.
• Rain Gear: If you’re traveling in a rainy season, a compact poncho or rain jacket can be a lifesaver.
• Binoculars and Camera: If you’re an avid photographer or birdwatcher, you’ll want to bring these.
• Lightweight Daypack: Perfect for carrying your essentials during game drives or day excursions.
• Power Bank: For charging devices in remote areas.

 

What to Wear to Safari Activities in the Okavango Delta

If you need outfit inspiration, I’ve linked some of my favorite outfits, coordinated by activity type. In general, you’ll be referring to the game drive outfit on your average day. Game drives are all about blending in with the natural environment! Choose clothing made from lightweight, breathable materials to stay comfortable and a wide-brimmed hat to help shield your face. A mokoro trip is also a popular activity for exploring Botswana’s waterways and wetlands in the Okavango Delta. When preparing for a mokoro trip, I recommend wearing lightweight clothing and waterproof sandals or shoes. But no matter what the activity, comfort, protection, and functionality are key when you are up close and personal with wild animals in the Okavango Delta.

 

Outfit #1

 

Featured: Utility Jumpsuit by Banana Republic Factory

 

Outfit #2

 

 

Outfit #3

 

 

Safari Essentials

 

Sustainable Safari Clothes

Okavango Delta FAQs

Finally, the FAQs. The stuff all of you want and need to know! I’ve tried to answer these questions to the best of my ability, but I highly recommend consulting your tour company and Botswana’s travel website for comprehensive answers to your most pressing questions.

 

What is the weather like in the Okavango Delta?

The Okavango Delta has two main seasons: dry and wet. I recommend visiting during the dry season in June, July, or August when afternoon temperatures reach about 26°C/79°F on average, and early mornings are about 7°C/45°F. Of course, you’ll need to prepare for various temperatures so you don’t freeze on your morning game drives or overheat mid-day!

 

What’s the dress code in Botswana?

Locals appreciate visitors who dress modestly and respectfully, so leave your revealing outfits at home and opt for clothing that covers your skin. Also, when you pair modest clothing with a good bug spray, you’ll avoid getting bit.

 

What colors do I avoid on a safari in the Okavango Delta?

Bright and flashy colors can startle wildlife, so avoid these if you can. Whites can also get dirty quickly in the bush, so make sure the whites you bring are easily washable. Avoid camouflage-patterned clothing, which is only permitted for the army and is illegal for anyone else. At this point, you’re probably wondering: what can I wear? It’s simple: stick to earthy tones (white, khaki, olive, or beige).

 

Is it okay to wear jeans or leggings on a safari?

Yes, you can wear jeans or leggings, but make sure they’re comfortable because you’ll spend many hours sitting during game drives.

 

How do I pack for my trip to the Okavango Delta?

When it comes to packing, less is more! You’ll likely have laundry options available during your safari, so you can pack light and re-wear your clothes. Also, don’t forget your camera, passport, headlamps, binoculars, and Botswana Pula. You’ll want to double-check your packing list before you fly!

 

What’s the best bug spray for Okavango Delta?

Choose DEET-based sprays (20-30%), oil of lemon eucalyptus (30% concentration), or permethrin-treated clothing for sun protection. Also, wear long clothing to minimize insect bites, especially during dawn and dusk.

 

Best Bug Sprays

 

Ready to Go to the Okavango Delta?

Alright, guys! You’re all set. You now know what to wear on a safari in the Okavango Delta. If you follow this packing list, I’m confident you’ll be ready for an unforgettable safari. Enjoy the wildlife and the incredible experiences in Botswana to come. I know I’ll be planning my next safari soon!

Love, Kim