What to Pack for a Great Migration Safari in 2026: The Ultimate Packing List

Planning a Great Migration safari is exciting  but one of the most common questions travelers ask is, What should I pack for the safari

Packing right can make the difference between a comfortable, unforgettable safari and an unnecessarily stressful one. This guide covers exactly what to bring, what to leave behind, and expert packing tips for your 2026 Great Migration adventure.

Safari Packing Basics: What Travelers Often Get Wrong, Before diving into the list, here’s a key truth:

You don’t need to overpack.

Safari vehicles have limited space, and most lodges provide essentials. Smart, lightweight packing is the secret to a great safari experience.

Essential Clothing for a Great Migration Safari

Neutral-Colored Safari Clothing

Pack 2–3 long-sleeve shirts to provide reliable sun coverage and protection from insects, 2–3 lightweight safari trousers designed for comfort during extended game drives, a fleece or light jacket for cool early morning and late evening outings, a warm sweater or hoodie for added warmth at higher altitudes, and comfortable shorts ideal for relaxing at the lodge or camp during downtime. Avoid wearing bright red, blue, or white clothing, as well as camouflage attire, which is restricted in some areas.

Footwear: Comfort Is Key

Comfort is key when it comes to safari footwear. You don’t need heavy hiking boots; instead, opt for comfortable walking shoes or trail sneakers for game drives and light walks, plus lightweight sandals or flip-flops for relaxing at the lodge, and be sure all shoes are well broken in before you travel.

Safari Accessories You Should Not Forget

Hat & Sunglasses

• Wide-brim hat or cap
• Polarized sunglasses for glare reduction

Binoculars

A must-have for spotting wildlife during the Great Migration  especially river crossings and predator action.

Camera & Photography Gear

• DSLR or mirrorless camera (optional)
• Zoom lens (200–400mm ideal)
• Extra batteries & memory cards

Tip: Dust is common; bring a lens cloth or cover.

Health, Safety & Personal Items

For medications and personal care, pack your personal prescription medications, a basic first aid kit, and motion sickness tablets, and don’t forget insect repellent and sun protection, including high-SPF sunscreen and an effective insect repellent with DEET or a reliable natural alternative.

Travel Documents & Money

For travel documents and money, bring your passport and visa copies, travel insurance documents, and ensure you have a credit card along with some cash in USD or the local currency.

Tech & Power Essentials

• Universal travel adapter
• Power bank
• Phone/camera chargers

Most lodges offer electricity.

What NOT to Pack for a Great Migration Safari

Hair dryers (usually provided or unnecessary)
Excessive jewelry
Drones (restricted in national parks)
Hard suitcases

When to Pack Differently for the Great Migration

Your packing may vary slightly depending on migration season:

• July–October (Masai Mara): Warmer clothes for early mornings
• January–March (Serengeti): Lighter clothing and sun protection
• April–May: Add a rain jacket

If you have these, you’re safari-ready

Plan Your Great Migration Safari with Cross Wild Safaris, where we don’t just plan your safari, we prepare you for it.

Expert packing advice
Tailor-made itineraries
Budget, mid-range & luxury options

Contact us today to start planning your safari with confidence