Deciding on what to carry or pack for a Uganda safari can be challenging or even worse if it is your first time to travel. There is a lot to explore in Uganda, but adequate preparation guarantees you a smooth and memorable vacation. Packing wisely is a thumb rule for any successful Uganda holiday. Forget how you pack for a party, this is completely different because you will be in the wild to experience nature.
How you pack should be guided by activities/purpose/what you plan to do while on Uganda safaris. Uganda offers a myriad exciting activities to nature lovers worldwide including gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, birding, mountain climbing, and others.
When considering items to carry, the essentials should come first, and avoid bulky packing. Have a simple bag that can accommodate everything you will need on a Uganda safari because you won’t be packing the whole wardrobe. Here is a complete list of what to pack and clothing for Uganda safaris holiday.
Luggage
A search for a Uganda safari packing list & clothing begins with securing a luggage travel bag. You will need something that can take all the items you plan to use at once thus protecting you from carrying many bags. A luggage travel bag does serve the right purpose and consider conventional safari bags or Duffel bags. Not any bag but find a durable duffel bag that seals properly to ensure that everything inside it is safe.
Daypack
Waterproof daypacks are essential on any African safari and having it on a Uganda safari should be a must-do. Get a simple daypack that is easier to carry, especially while you are enjoying breathtaking adventures such as gorilla trekking or hiking. The daypack is needed on any Uganda safari because it is where you will put things like cameras, phones and relevant travel documents.
Camping gear
Camping gear may not be essential if you plan to be in already established safari camps. Guests with a tight budget can consider securing a sturdy case that can accommodate the tent, and make sure the tent can be folded. In Uganda, campers have plenty of camping opportunities in parks, forests, and lodges. In case you choose to have camping gear, consider a weight range of not beyond 2kg. While in Uganda, it is possible to shop for some items rather than having the stress of carrying them right in your home country. Areas to find good outdoor camping gear include Game store in Kampala (Lugogo Mall), and Victoria Malls in Entebbe.
Essentials for a camping tour, a stove, plate, cup, cutleries, sleeping bag (should be lightweight), roll-mat, tent, and if you are visiting during the wet months, you need a box of firelighter blocks, etc.
Clothing list
Yes, Uganda enjoys friendly weather and climatic conditions all year round, but you must pack the right attire. You will need 2 dresses or 2 pairs of trousers, 3 shirts/t-shirts, a good sweater, pair of socks, rain jacket (in case of rain), and others. The packing list for a Uganda safari should be into consideration of people’s cultures or traditions- dress code should be respectful.
Insect repellents
Most visitor experiences are enjoyed in the wilderness areas and these areas harbor variety of species including insects. You wouldn’t want to be bitten by any and that is why an insect repellent is a must-have on your Uganda safari packing list.
Camera
A Uganda trip without photography can never be memorable. This is why you need a good camera and guests visiting to see gorillas or chimpanzees, ensure that you have a non-flashlight camera. By any means you fail to find one, during photography with chimps or gorillas, the flashlight must be turned off.
Sun safety gear
Depending on the season or months you plan to visit, during the day it can shine and the heat may not be friendly to you like the one back home. The essential sun protection gear to have;- sunglasses, moisture drops, sunscreen, lip balm, safari hats, and more.
Medical/first aid kit
First aid/medical kits shouldn’t miss on your Uganda safari packing list. Have some anti-malaria tablets, elastic bandages, small scissors, antiseptic wipes, plasters, and anti-diarrhea tablets.
Toiletries
Some lodges or hotels do avail toiletries but not all. This is why you have a pack of some, especially wet wipes for cleaning your face/body, pads for women, deodorants, blades, hair drier, nail clippers, and others. You also need toothpaste, body scrub, toothbrush, etc.
