Going on safari is one of the most thrilling experiences for any traveler, especially for those who have a love for nature and wildlife. But finding the right gift for the safari-goer in your life can be tricky! From practical items to enhance comfort and safety in the bush to luxurious touches that bring the safari experience home, here’s a curated gift guide perfect for anyone planning (or dreaming of) an African safari.
1. Binoculars
A good pair of binoculars can elevate any safari experience by allowing the viewer to observe wildlife from afar without disturbing it. Look for binoculars that are lightweight yet offer powerful magnification, such as a 10×42 model. These are perfect for viewing lions lazing in the distance or spotting birds in the treetops.
Recommended: Swarovski or Zeiss binoculars for high quality and durability, or Vortex for a more budget-friendly option.
2. High-Quality Camera
For wildlife lovers, a safari is full of once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities. A quality DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens allows photographers to capture incredible shots from afar. Gift a camera that’s compact yet powerful or consider an attachable zoom lens for smartphone photographers.
Recommended: Canon EOS R6 or Sony A7 III, or smartphone lenses like Moment’s telephoto lens for those wanting to travel light.
3. Field Guide to African Wildlife
A field guide to African wildlife helps safari-goers identify the animals, birds, and plants they encounter, enhancing their appreciation of the unique ecosystem. Consider a regional guide for the country they’ll be visiting, like a guide to Botswana or Zimbabwe.
Recommended: Field Guide to Mammals of Southern Africa by Chris and Mathilde Stuart or Roberts Bird Guide for bird enthusiasts.
4. Safari Journal
A safari journal is a thoughtful and personal gift, giving travelers a place to record their sightings, thoughts, and reflections. Choose a durable, water-resistant journal with plenty of space for jotting down memories, wildlife sightings, and even sketches.
Recommended: Moleskine’s travel journals or the Rite in the Rain All-Weather Notebook for rugged durability.
5. Portable Power Bank
A portable power bank is a must for any safari-goer, especially when they’re snapping photos, recording videos, or using a GPS on long game drives. Look for solar-charged or high-capacity power banks that can recharge multiple devices on a single charge.
Recommended: Anker PowerCore 26800 or Goal Zero Venture 30 Solar Kit for eco-friendly charging options.
6. Waterproof Dry Bag
From river crossings to unpredictable weather, a safari can sometimes get a bit wet. A waterproof dry bag will keep essentials like electronics, passports, and cameras safe and dry. These bags come in handy during boat safaris, mokoro rides, and even just to protect items from the dust.
Recommended: YETI Panga or Sea to Summit Dry Bags, both durable and available in various sizes.
7. Luxury Travel Blanket
Mornings on safari can be chilly, and a cozy travel blanket is a welcome gift for early game drives. Opt for a lightweight yet warm option that is easy to pack, like a wool or fleece blanket.
Recommended: Pendleton’s eco-wise wool travel blanket for style and warmth, or a Rumpl puffy blanket for lightweight warmth.
8. Safari-Friendly Clothing
Safari clothing needs to be lightweight, breathable, and practical. Look for neutral-colored, moisture-wicking shirts, convertible pants, and layers for cooler mornings and evenings. A wide-brimmed hat and a scarf or bandana for sun and dust protection are also essentials for any safari-goer.
Recommended: Brands like Patagonia and Columbia offer high-performance, eco-friendly options. For a stylish safari aesthetic, consider gifting pieces from Out of Africa or The Safari Store.
9. Noise-Canceling Headphones
Whether it’s a long-haul flight to Africa or downtime at the lodge, a pair of noise-canceling headphones makes a world of difference. These are especially appreciated during flights, helping travelers relax before their adventure begins.
Recommended: Sony WH-1000XM4 or Bose QuietComfort 35 II, both highly rated for travel.
10. Travel Guidebooks and Local Reading
Give the gift of storytelling with books on African wildlife, conservation, or even fictional novels set in the wilds of Africa. These books help safari-goers better understand the landscapes they’re visiting and offer wonderful inspiration for their journey.
Recommended: The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony, Safari by Tony Park, and The Lion Tracker’s Guide to Life by Boyd Varty.
11. Donation to Conservation Efforts
For the safari-goer passionate about wildlife, a donation to a conservation organization in their name is a gift that keeps on giving. Organizations like Grow Africa and CWF are doing incredible work to protect Africa’s iconic species, including lions, elephants, and rhinos and uplift local communities.
Recommended: Grow Africa Foundation, Bhejane Trust
From practical tools like binoculars and dry bags to luxury touches like a safari journal and cozy blanket, these gifts are sure to enhance any safari-goer’s adventure. Whatever you choose, these thoughtful and functional gifts will ensure that your loved one has the best possible experience on their safari, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
