I'm pretty sure the "stay away from white" admonitions are due to the ease of cleaning/dust issue, but I'll let more experienced heads confirm that.

For myself, I was a big fan of the clothes that came pretreated for sun protection (REI and such benefitted greatly from my decision to go on safari), but there's probably no actual need to buy new clothes if you have some that will do.

That said ... I was very, very happy that the couple wearing turquoise shirts with glitter and rhinestone embellishments got off the plane in the Mara on the stop before mine. (They were kind of killing the mood.)

white is ok, although a bit unpractical because of the dust/dirt. Other than that, I don't think colors matter that much to be honest. Blue is bad for atrackting tsetse flies, but the actual research proves only that it attracks a (little) bit more flies than other colors, which still atrackt them as well. So don't worry to much and bring where you find yourself most comfortable in

If you want to wear white, it's ok. But I lightly dyed my whites in tea or fabric dye.

Lots of people will tell you bright colors and printed t-shirts are ok, too. I just think they seem out of place while on safari, but it's nice to wear a bright scarf at dinner.

White really stands out on the plains. If you're going to Kenya and Tanzania as your post suggests, then you'll be in closed vehicles and standing up looking out the open roof hatches. There isn't a lot of you that will be showing, so I don't think it will matter all that much. If you were doing walking safaris, it would be a different story. The posts about keeping it clean, are correct, however... very dusty! It won't be white for long.

Personally I don't think colours matter much at all. Animals are colour blind and even lions don't see the Maasai red (don't tell anyone, they'll be disappointed!). White stands out because it reflects light so highly, bit like bleached bones on the plains. I think you should wear what is comfortable and if you're comfortable with white smeared with dust and dirt … go for it. Khaki just doesn't show the dirt as much. I'm not sure which safari outfitter is continuing the myth that we need to buy their khaki coloured clothes but I hope they are making plenty of money out of it!

Thanks all!

If I can find something in a khaki'ish color that works (that isn't crazy expensive) I'll take that instead. I'm okay with dust and dirt but I would like to be able to show photos with me in them without looking like a complete train wreck. I have a couple of them and might try dyeing one so the dirt color looks intentional.


WO, "...couple wearing turquoise shirts with glitter and rhinestone embellishments..."??? Oh holy buckets.

ShayTay, I'm a freak and sunburn when no human should be able to sunburn. I burned past blisters through spf 48 in Florida in high school. That was in under an hour outside. Even in the shade of the vehicle I'm afraid of the sun at the equator. It will kick my butt.

Ex Officio sells travel clothing that is fairly sun resistance and in safari-ish colors. I see their stuff on sale or clearance at REI or Sierra Trading Post.

btw, remember the colors of the cars you are in; some of them are white with some bright logo's

I don't know why so many people here say that white is OK. White is certainly NOT ok. Or put otherwise; white is less OK than most colors (even bright ones).

You have to look at it this way; a lot of animals have a type of monochrome vision. Hence, a color that looks bright to us may still look quite "gray" to them. But not white. White is white. To us and to them.

For instance, any lodge that offers walking safaris will advise you to not wear white. Any other color is OK, just not white. I know EP even had it in their little booklet that was in every lodge room (not that a lot of people read it, nor that the rule was enforced, but walks @ EP are not real walks anyway).

So my advice would be;
1) Stay away from whites
2) Stay away from dark blue, if you are going to areas where there are tsetse flies
3) Stay away from bright colors (for the animals with non-monochrome vision)
4) Go for shades of brown, gray or green.

...in THAT order!



B.regs,

J.

Iowa_Redhead, I understand; my Dad was a redhead! Cover up well and use a wide-brimmed hat. Even if your vehicle has a "pop top", you'll get sun because you'll be out in the mornings and evenings when the sun is at a lower angle. REI has several hats that shade the back of your neck and ears, as well as having the front brim. I use a Tilley hat myself.

If it won't break the bank, I'll note that lifelist's recommendation of clearance sales at REI or (especially) Sierra Trading Post is a good one. Sierra Trading Post can drive you a bit mad with emails (make sure you set your preferences appropriately if you order through them), but they have some really great deals if you're patient enough to wade through all the options on the site.

I've seen guides on walking safaris in Botswana, Zimbabwe and Zambia tell people wearing white to to go and change. If anything, it's the worst colour you can wear for walking because it's so bright.

However, if you're only doing vehicle safaris I don't think clothing colour is an issue.

Every store now has their spring/summer attire. Go for the low-cost shops as TJMaxx, Old Navy, Target, etc. Even GAP, their "sale" racks, and I'm sure you'll find items that work. Unless you can find sale items at REI or other that provide safe fabrics to avoid burning... these are otherwise rather expensive.

You don't need that many changes of clothing, so fine you some brown, tan, khaki and you'll be fine. If you want something different for dinner, toss in a pair of black slacks to wear with sweater and a piece of chunky jewelry.

I avoid white for the reasons stated, not so much the dust, but the dirt which can be brown, red or black... so soon your white isn't any longer. And, unless walking, rather spending most time in safari vehicle, color doesn't much matter, but for those "sparkles and bright colors" which, honestly... "are they proper anywhere?"

LLBrean is another source of sunblocking shirts and pants that won't break the bank. Most outfitters include a few pieces laundy a day as part of your package deal. You really only need 2-3 outfits with this service.

Thanks for the help everyone!

Okay, the white cotton will stay home for baling hay. I'll try the clearance and sales areas online (REI, LLBean, Sierra, etc) and see if I can find what I'm looking for in a price that won't make me whine. My main idea was to wear a tank top or t shirt and then a loose shirt over for sun protection, but I'll see what I can find.

I'm already on the lookout for lightweight pants (I only have jeans or black slacks) and will add shirts to my list. I need to get a Tilley style hat at some point but that's easier to find than clothes that fit right.

I recommend that you purchase sunburn insurance.

If you already have some white why not dye it with one of those dyes that work in the washer? That's what I'm thinking of doing.

Don't own one piece of beige clothing so thought if I can't find anything in the earth colours but it's available in white then I can simply dye it.

Also like the idea of tea staining some whites.

My beach cover up only came in black or white so I bought the white and plan to dye it turquoise for Zanzibar.

I dyed a shirt beige, came out peach. Not what I wanted. So I tried again and dyed the peach turquoise. Came out a perfect earthy sage color!! So KathBC, while you're doing your cover-up, add something peach and see what happens.

Iowa_Redhead - I thought the hat would be easy, too. I bought about 10 of them before I finally found one I liked. At the end of the summer, linen pants go on sale. I have bought many pairs for under $15. They were mostly white, so the ones I took on safari, I dyed. (too bad I didn't know that I would freeze my hoo hoo off in southern Africa in Sept and needed heavy pants)

christabir, I'm interested in the need for heavy pants as I am struggling to put together the right layers for our visit to SA this Sept. I think I have the upper half covered, so to speak, with short sleeve tees (3), light long sleeved shirts (2), two different weight fleeces & a heavier waterproof jacket. Also wool hat, fleece gloves & scarf.

The pants (3) I have bought are very light (in order to dry quickly). I will also take long underwear. If I take heavier pants will they be too hot as the sun gets up? How heavy do you mean? Should I take a couple of the lighter pairs for the afternoon?

I can understand one being cold in South Africa where most game vehicles are open, so the guides usually have blankets to keep guests warm in mornings/nights.

But, in East Africa, while some vehicles might be open, they are covered on top to protect against the Equatorial sun; others are closed and should be warmer inside. And, here too most of the vehicles have the Masai shukahs to keep paxs warm.

For heavier pants, there's always thin-wale cords and even jeans (both come in the earthy colors, not only blue). Although most visitors avoid heavier fabrics when considering laundering, unless you fall into a puddle of mud, let's be honest... "how many people launder their jeans after each wearing?"

sbw - You'll be fine with the light pants and longies. I was unprepared for the cold AM and PM drives.

Iowa_Redhead, I am also very, very sun sensitive.

Don't know the type of vehicle you will be in, or the time of year you plan to travel, but I suggest you may wish to consider cotton fingerless gloves. The backs of my hands are the first to burn (in holding the binocs, a camera or gripping the roll-bar, they get lots of sun).

Also, the late afternoon sun is still very potent and the low angle of the sun's rays burns the neck, ears and face. When this happens a hat provides little protection. I place tiny suction cups (with a hook on one end) on the window and hang up a bandana to create a temporary sun shade.

Thanks for the ideas Khakif!

My hands are *usually* okay if I keep putting sunblock on every 2 hours or so and same with my face/neck, but I'll definitely consider gloves just incase. A long sleeve shirt will keep me mostly covered and I'll pop the colar up as the sun moves as needed. Between that, the hat, the top of the vehicle and a lot of sunblock I should be okay. If nothing else, I'm used to being sunburned.

In the vehicle any color is ok now.

Consider a 2nd hand store to save $ on clothes you might not be buying otherwise. I just got several items for my next trip at one of those.

I noted in my last report: "At least at the larger lodges and camps in Kenya anything goes now. I saw every color in the rainbow on game drives. Hawaiian shirts, gold lamé, ruffled skirts, white chiffon veils fashioned into a flowing cape, sports jerseys with netting, black and white checks, fire engine red, hot pink, purple, royal blue. Bejeweled sandals were also popular. If it’s comfortable and not camouflage, (which is outlawed by the military) and it’s not tse tse-attracting blue (if tse tse infested areas are on the itinerary) pack it and wear it proudly!"

heiii, i think white is very beautiful colour,because the look in white is very impresive,& safari is also very nice when you wore any other colour net shaul or scarf....

>> I think white is very beautiful color, because the look in white is very impressive

(rolls eyes)

I like white too, particularly in stockings, and in combination with a garter belt and high heels. That combo can be VERY impressive on me.

But what that has to do with safari? Nothing! I repeat; avoid whites on safari.

J.

It is good to have a lingerie fashion expert with us.
Aah, not vinegarexport, I mean pixel power

regards - tom
ps - check out some of vinegar export's recent fashion advice on other forums . And I do like the name "vinegar export". Wonder what that means in their culture?

Well, if you were Dutch like me, you could translate that to "azijnpisser", Tom.

Wow, vinegar export only comments on "fashion"
Dare I say, stay clear!

pixelpower - prefer your fashion statement

I can fit the garter into the duffle, but the high heels are going to be tough.

atl - and the thigh high waders??

regards - tom

teehee, you guys are bad. Since we're on the topic of shoes, I'm not taking my blue, glitter, light-up, sparkle, pumps.
What shoes do you pack? Dh is very concerned about snakes. He lived in Taiwan years ago and had several troublesome run ins with snakes. I'm not even sure I will be able to convince him to go on a bush walk. We have sneakers which I figure should be fine in vehicles. Do you think hiking shoes or hiking boots that cover the ankle is necessesary? We will not be wearing sandals or flip-flop out on any game viewing.

Sneakers should be fine unless you are doing any walking in rough terrain. Then, it's nice to have the ankle support. Sandals are nice around camp, or if it's hot (including in the safari vehicles.)

I am surprised to hear about dark blue and tste flies for it seems like it would be like olive or brown. But I have been told, not necessarily based on fact, that red,bright pint and yellow are colors to avoid for they tend to attract mosquitos. The source was a camping magazine and tour guide from Abercrombie&Kent that we used in Java.

A&K guide has probably been out in the sun too long.

Avoiding blue/black, as it's the color of the buffalo which the tse-tse loves.

It's recommended to avoid bright colors are recommended mainly because they show dirt and dust, where the tan, beige & khaki, not as much. Animals really don't see color, when you consider the Masai walk around in their bright red shukahs. And, in villages, especially in the Samburu area the women are often wearing yellow, orange, even electric blue. Inasmuch as you're in vehicle most of the time, wear what you wish and be prepared to have items laundered.

Sept is still winter. Very few snakes are awake. Do you plan on going on extensive hikes? Unlikely.



I take my cues from the rangers - they wear "safari colors". From what I understand, that goes for their garters and high heels, too.

"...goes for their garters and high heels, too..." some "khaki fever" huh CB?

I simply think it is nice to "dress the part". Blinding orange Ja-Lo, GaGa, t-shirts are fine at the mall or Walmart. On safari, dress the part of the big white hunter!!! (See my Fodors profile for a safari fashion statement ).

regards - tom
ps - you think I was kidding about atl's thigh high waders???

Khaki fever good one. In fact my waders are khaki color.

Very rare to see snakes, your husband can rest easy Cristeen.

What do the local Masai use to repel the tsetse flies? From all the pictures I've seen of the Masai people all they wear are bright red clothing over black skin - and a lot of exposed skin as well! If black and dark blue are not recommended then the local Masai must be inundated with bites?

Always, tom.

Waders with high heels. Quite the visual in my head.

You know, I've seen lots of photos of the wildlife that you all have taken. Seems it's time for some photos of you in your safari-wear.

Oh, an thanks for the snake info. He will be much relieved. I am not kidding. It is what he is most worried about. Thanks.

snakes, of course it only takes one and one bite

Actually, for the maybe 60 days I've been in safari camps I've seen snakes maybe only 5 times!! This last 17 days in Tanzania did not see any at all. And shoes, for shoes I take only one pair, very comfortable and very sturdy walking shoes (brown). Not boots. But I do very little hiking about at safari camps anyway.

regards - tom

Tom-snakes, of course it only takes one and one bite

Gee, thanks! lol

Mention the aversion to snakes to you agent and guide so they can reassure you and take steps to avoid the unlikely encounter. I'm sure such a request is not unusual.

Thanks, Lynn. I was thinking it would be a good idea. Don't they usually as soon after check-in what we are most interested in seeing? I figure I could also tell them what we are interested in NOT seeing.
We were house hunting one time. Dh saw a snake at the base of the front porch steps. Realtor and I jumped over it. He was headed toward the garden. Dh wouldn't even consider the house.

"Driver, please take the road that doesn't have any snakes -- thanks!"

Don-Yes! That's it! Isn't it that easy in SA? lol

In 17 years, I've seen 4/snakes.
Two dead in the road in Kenya.
One cute little garder snake in SA... even handled it (strange feel).
One long critter, scurried past my feet on the way to gobble down the hyrax (their favorite meal) frolicking nearby, as I left my cottage at Elsa's Kopje. Believe me, that snake hadn't the slightest interest in me, nor me him... just let him go on his way.

Believe me, snakes have no desire for human contact, than we with them. Amazingly, I've never given much thought to snakes, but when it's raised here.

Footwear - mocassins; don't own sneakers/walkers or desert boots.

<<<Avoiding blue/black, as it's the color of the buffalo which the tse-tse loves. >>>

"No Mom, you shouldn't wear blue or black, you'll be confused for a buffalo!" LMAO

I found this incredible site when looking for women's safari clothes. I and a friend are planning a trip to south Africa in 2014 when I am 65 and he is 75.
I am a super sensitive redhead also so all the travel clothing information was very helpful. I live in Canada and was interested in safaris when I was younger.
I spent many years on the British Columbia/Alaska border in the wilderness. He worked in Brazil.
When we were wondering where to take our special birthdays holiday, we were thinking Jamaica.
Then I saw travel magazine show by the De Boers on their own home land South Africa. It featured Kruger Park and the Palace Lost City, so I thought why not!!?
He agreed, so now I am planning and doing everything to make our experience the greatest.
With me being a redhead and he has scar tissue lower legs this is way better than sun and sand in Jamaica.

I was told the pants that zip off into shorts are good to bring on a safari does anyone have any other suggestions.

Zipoffs are good. If you will be doing all your safari activities from a vehicle, then clothing color really does not matter. I would avoid black/blue because of tse tses. Although most places don't even have tse tses.

For other suggestions:

Wide brimmed hat
Collared shirts
Layers!

And a scarf. I used mine every day. Sometimes to cover my ears from the wind.

Depending on when/where you are going you could want gloves--cold in morning, late afternoon, and night drives.

sandi on Jul 19, 11 at 4:25pm
"In 17 years, I've seen 4/snakes. Two dead"

Sorry about your poor luck with those particular reptilia. You're bound to increase your sightings, given the numerous trips you make. Don't give up hope.


"Footwear - mocassins; don't own sneakers/walkers or desert boots."

Combing your choice of footware with a comment from a while ago that your nails are painted bright red for safari...if anyone spies a lady with red nails wearing mocassins in East Africa, it has to be you. There couldn't be two.

Too funny Lynn!

I think there's still time to get over to Kohls, Macys, etc, for those sales. (don't forget those coupons)
My wardrobe runs to black and navy (hello tsetse flies!), so I really needed new stuff. So did DH.
Found loose-weave long-sleeved Ts for @ $10 each in beige, taupe, tan. Short-sleeved shirts for @ $6
Found tan full-zippered fleeces for $20 for me; $30 for DH (Sports Authority).
Already have l.s. safari shirt (in light coral, which works, colorwise) and zip-off pants.
Redheads- these are YOUR colors - enjoy them!

Cabela's would be a more appropriate store to shop for Camping and Outdoor Gear at competitive prices.
Stocked for outdoors unlike Macy's or Kohl's.