I'm going on the East Africa Safari tour on June 13, 2009 and was wondering about what I should pack...mainly based on the weather. I'm not sure how hot / cold it will be - particularly at night which will dictate the type of sleeping bag I purchase / clothes I bring.
Also I vaguely recall reading something about not bring suitcases with frames / wheels etc. Can you please give me some idea of the guidelines for a suitable "bag".
Any other suggestions about what to take would be appreciated.
Thankyou.
Hi CassyJ,
Thanks for posting on the forums!
An ideal bag for a tour like this is something squashy that you find easy to carry. For this reason we often recommend backpacks, but it is still your choice. Please do bear in mind though that there is restricted space so a big suitcase is not really suitable.
A website that I always recommend to people when it comes to weather is the BBC one. You can get country guides and break it down for average conditions according to town/city. Here are some links:
Kenya - Nairobi: http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/world/city_guides/results.shtml?tt=TT000300
Tanzania - Dar es Salaam: http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/world/city_guides/results.shtml?tt=TT000670
For packing some good general suggestions would be...
Plug adaptor - see http://kropla.com/electric2.htm
iPOD / MP3, a couple of good books and playing cards, especially for long drives.
Sunscreen - it is not as easy to find in Africa as you may think as most locals do not buy it.
Plenty of batteries for your camera or battery charger. Spare memory stick and lots of film!
Anti bacterial gel and a big pack of WET WIPES!
Then just clothes, one pair of trainers or sturdy shoes for walking.
I hope this helps,
Best wishes
Kelly