What to Pack for Zimbabwe

Generally, casual comfortable clothing is suitable throughout the year. The most practical items to pack for safari are:

• blouses with long sleeves (even in summer, they will protect you from the sun and from mosquitoes)
• T-shirts
• shorts or a light skirt
• jeans or trousers for evenings and cooler days
• fleece or sweater and a warm jacket for game drives (necessary, even in summer)
• comfortable walking shoes
• sun block, sunglasses, hat, insect repellent - essentials!
• binoculars and a camera are a must
• track suit - good for sleeping in during winter months
• light, compact raincoat is a good idea for the summer
• swimsuit, as most hotels/lodges have swimming pools
• towel, torch and sleeping bag for camping safaris (sleeping bags can be hired from most safari operators)
• Elegant casual outfit for dinner and/or cocktails at the smarter hotels and restaurants - men are generally expected to don collar, jacket (sometimes even a tie) in cocktail bars and restaurants after 18:30, except in the warmer parts of the country and at the game lodges.

Layers are most practical for the fluctuating day/night temperatures of Zimbabwe. Dull and/or neutral colours are more suitable for safari - white is not practical. It is best to pack hardy, durable clothing.

If you are travelling with an organised safari, it is important to check your weight limit. Generally you will need to restrict your luggage to between 10 and 12 kg (packed in a soft bag) plus a reasonable amount of camera equipment.

"Rhodes Nyanga Hotel, where campers are welcome to drift in for dinner - provided the men are wearing ties. If you don't have one, they'll rent you one for the evening." - Tony Weaver, Zimbabwe's Eastern Highlands.

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