What To Wear On Safari In Botswana:Everything You Need To Know

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Want to know what to wear on safari in Botswana? These are tried-and-proven safari clothes that are versatile, look good on any safari, and you can copy for yourself.

Planning a safari can be thrilling, and as part of the planning process, you’ll need to decide on the appropriate African safari clothes.

If you’re anything like me, you are doing all the research you can to pack accordingly. As a safari lover myself, I am sharing the best outfit ideas I swear by.

You are going to learn what to wear on safari in Botswana, weather in Botswana, because what you wear essentially depends on the weather.

In addition, you will learn about where to buy safari clothes, fashionable safari clothes and more.

After learning about these safari outfits, you will be prepared to explore Botswana in style.

This post is all about what to wear on safari in Botswana.

What to wear on safari in Botswana: All you need to know

I think deciding on what to wear on safari in Botswana shouldn’t be a difficult task; however, we need to discuss Botswana weather so you can pack appropriately.

Above all, you will need an appropriate safari outfit for the weather. Botswana weather is a classic African weather with lots of sunshine.

Days can be hot, and nights can get cold, especially in the northern part of the country, where the safari camps are.

Weather in Botswana

Knowing what the weather is like is crucial in deciding what to pack for your safari.

I was born and raised in Botswana, and this is how we classified the weather for simplicity: May, June, and July are winter, and the rest of the months are summer. Anyway, let’s do a more comprehensive breakdown,

Dry season – April to October. There is little to no rain during the dry season, and there is plenty of sunshine. May, June, and July can get very cold.

Temperatures can drop below zero, especially in the northern parts of the country. Average temperatures during these 3 months range from 7 degrees Celsius to 28 degrees Celsius.

Wet season- November to March. The wettest months are January and February. Although this is the wet season, the weather is still warm.

What to wear on safari in Botswana

Safari boots

Safari boots are one of the best shoes for safari in Botswana. You don’t need the most expensive safari boots; just make sure they are practical and sturdy.

In general, the enclosed shoes are better; of course, you can wear sandals around camp.

I went on a safari wearing Timberland boots. Although they are sturdy, supportive, and durable, I found them to be quite heavy.

I suggest you try something a little lighter than that, especially if you will be doing a walking safari.

Are trainers ok for a safari? You might ask. The answer is yes, they are actually great. I always have a pair of trainers when I go on a safari.

While we are still on the topic of shoes, I have heard this question a couple of times: ‘Can I wear black shoes on African safari?’ The answer is Yes, you can.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are a must; they are an essential item for an African safari. Botswana is blessed with lots of sunshine and dust, too, especially on safari drives.

When buying sunglasses, look for these features: polarised lenses, UV protection (100%), a durable frame, and a non-reflective coating.

Of course, you can be as fashionable as you choose.

Safari shirt

When planning what to wear on safari in Botswana, you’ll likely choose shirts, either long- or short-sleeved. I suggest a long-sleeved one, lightweight and breathable, because it can get really hot.

Olive green is one of the best safari colours for ladies to wear.

In addition, the colour hides the dirt and dust very well. Some safari clothing is made from antibacterial fabric, which is an option for you.

In case you were wondering where to buy safari clothes, check out Amazon and the safari store.

Safari pants

For safari pants, opt for breathable, lightweight pants. For most of the safari, you will be seated in the safari vehicle unless you are doing a walking safari, so choose comfortable pants.

I recommend you go for neutral colours like beige, olive, and brown. It helps you blend with the bush.

With these colour combinations, you can put together a safari chic outfit. If you want to add a bit of colour to your outfits, consider a white shirt, which is what I always go with when trying to add colour to my safari outfits.

However, I wear white in and around camp. If I go on a game drive, I usually change into a more neutral colour.

Safari hat

Whether you’re heading into the Okavango Delta or just exploring around camp, you’ll need a good safari hat, preferably one with a wide brim. It will cover your face, neck, and ears.

A good safari hat makes a list into a fashionable safari clothes list. It can elevate your look while protecting your face against the sun. You can even use a baseball cap if you prefer not to wear hats.

What to wear on safari in Botswana: Jacket

When packing for your safari, don’t forget a jacket. Although Botswana has a hot climate in general, it gets cold during the winter months (May, June, July), and freezing temperatures are not unheard of.

So, depending on when you are visiting, pack accordingly. Even when going during the summer months, pack a light jacket because you can have a hot day and then a cold night. I highly recommend you add it to your safari packing list.

Safari shorts

Since it can get very hot, pack a pair of shorts; they are a safari essential. I know we are worried about mosquitoes and tsetse flies, so use mosquito repellent spray or cream; usually, that works.

In addition, Botswana safari camps and lodges offer fleece blankets. I usually use that to cover my legs during the game drive.

Sandals

Sandals are a key element in creating the best safari chic outfits, especially when paired with shorts. I would suggest you pack a pair for when you are around the lodge. Also, you can wear them in the evenings at the lodge.

Scarf for safari

I’m not really a scarf person; however, I know people who swear by them. So, consider packing a scarf for warmth, especially during cool morning game drives, and to protect your neck from the harsh sun. Also, a scarf can add a fashion touch to your outfit.

What to wear on safari evenings

Botswana safari evenings are casual and relaxed, so don’t worry about fancy evening wear. Focus on comfort and dress in your own style.

If you like, you can wear the same safari pants and shirt you wore during the day. For safari outfit female with a more chic look, go for safari shorts, sandals and a short-sleeve shirt.

However, if you are looking for a cute safari look, definitely go for one. Besides, the setup at the lodge is appropriate for a more stylish evening look.

This is when I usually wear something with a bit of colour, like a white shirt. Most lodges usually have a fine-dining setup in the evening. If you packed a nice dress, this is the time to wear it.

What to wear on safari in Botswana: Frequently asked questions

1. Can you wear grey on safari? – Yes, grey is a great safari colour. It is neutral and versatile, which is what we are aiming for.

2. What to wear on safari in Botswana in September- September is a dry, warm month. Wear neutral, comfortable, breathable clothes.

3. Do you dress up for dinner on safari?- There is no dress code; dressing up is optional. Botswana safari lodges usually do fine dining set up in the evening, so you can dress up.

4. What to wear in the Okavango Delta- Stick to safari clothes, neutral colours, light and breathable. Whether you need a jacket depends on the month you are visiting.

5. What to wear on safari in Botswana in winter?- May, June, and July are the coldest months in Botswana. Wear in layers, long-sleeved shirts, trousers, gloves, a scarf and a jacket. Most lodges will give you an extra fleece during a game drive.

6. Can you wear shorts in Botswana? –YES!

7. Weather Botswana August? – August is the dry season, and it is summer with lots of sunshine. Average temperatures range from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius.

8. How to get to Maun Botswana?- For international travellers, there are direct flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg (South Africa), which is where you are likely to connect if you are travelling from Australia, the USA, and Europe.

In addition, if you are already in Gaborone Botswana, there are direct flights from Gaborone to Maun. If you can, travel by road, as most locals do. I have personally travelled from Gaborone to Maun by road; it is such a long drive.