A game drive is the highlight of any Ugandan safari vacation. You will see magnificent local wildlife that may include Elephant, Buffalo, Lion, Antelopes, and more. And whether you find yourself in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, or Murchison Falls National Park, you will witness the natural beauty of Uganda up close. But how should you properly prepare for your safari? Here are 7 fundamental items to carry with you into the bush.
A Camera
You will be taking a lot of photos when you are out on a Ugandan safari adventure, so the key is to pack light camera equipment for good shots. While Smartphone cameras continue to improve, a quality DSLR camera with an optical lens is a must if you want the best photos possible. Consider taking along a telephoto lens if your goal is to get more intimate shots of the local wildlife. Don’t forget to pack extra batteries and memory cards-with all of your snappings you may go through batteries and memory faster than expected! We recommend that you store your camera and accessories in a waterproof and dustproof bag to protect your equipment from the elements.
Binoculars
On Ugandan safari, you will be getting up close to much wildlife on your game drives including birds that are frequently viewed from a distance–in such situations; nothing beats a great pair of binoculars. Go with a pair that offers at least 10×50 magnifications-that way you will be able to comfortably view the game from afar and the images will appear colorful and stunning.
Safari Clothing
As you are putting together your perfect Ugandan safari outfits, there are few practical things to keep in mind. Avoid bright colors and consider neutral earth tones including tan, brown, green, or grey because they help you blend into the environment. For example, you can wear tan from head to toe without being stopped by the fashion police-so have fun with it! Also bear in mind that climate and time of year influence your safari dressing code. For instance, if you are going on an early morning game drive then dress in layers to stay warm as the air can be cool. If you are traveling during the wet season months (October/November to March/May) then be sure to dress a warm waterproof jacket, a scarf, and gloves that will help to keep the cold during a safari. During the dry months, which run from June to early September and December to February, we recommend that you pack some light rain gear.
Sun Protection
Remember to protect yourself from the sun when you are out in the bush with quality pair of polarized sunglasses to protect your eyes, a wide-brimmed hat to reduce your direct exposure to the sun, and applying sunscreen that is scent-free before and during your safari game drive.
Walking Boots
A reliable pair of walking/hiking boots will help you get the most out of your safari experience whether you are on a walking safari or a game drive. If your footwear is comfortable, you will be able to get up close to smaller natural wonders of Uganda such as plants and insects while feeling safe and secure.
Insect repellent
Apply some insect repellant before you head out on a safari and remember to pack some extra repellant as game drives are done in the tropical bush which tends to have many mosquitoes.
7. Small Medical Kit
It is awesome to be so close up to the natural world of Uganda when you are out on safari, but that also means that because you are in a remote location you may not have access to basic medical supplies. That’s why we recommend you pack a light medical kit that includes essentials such as bandages, aspirin, anti-histamine cream, and stomach relief meds-this way you will be ready for anything that comes your way.
