In short
- Wear layers and a windbreaker for cold mornings.
- Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Wear comfortable, closed walking shoes for rest stops.
In this article
A 7 to 9-hour open vehicle safari at Addo Elephant National Park exposes you to shifting weather. Proper clothing ensures you stay comfortable from hotel pickup to afternoon drop-off.
Why do you need layers on an open vehicle safari?
Open 4x4 vehicles create significant wind chill during early morning drives.
Even in summer, morning temperatures drop quickly when moving at the park's speed limit of 40 km/h (25 mph). Start with a base layer, add a fleece or sweater, and wear a windbreaker on top. You will need to remove layers as the sun heats the park later in the day.
How should you protect yourself from the sun?
Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
By midday, the sun is intense on the open plains of the Main Game Area. Sunglasses are essential to cut the glare on dusty gravel roads. Reapply sunscreen during your 7 to 9-hour tour.
What are the best shoes for an Addo safari?
Wear comfortable, closed walking shoes.
You must remain inside your vehicle most of the time. However, you will exit at designated fenced lookout points, picnic areas, and camps like the Addo Main Camp. Closed shoes protect your feet from dust and uneven ground at these stops.
What else should you pack for the drive?
Bring binoculars, a camera with a zoom lens, and your original ID.
- Optics: Binoculars help spot distant lions. A camera with a 200mm+ lens and spare batteries is recommended.
- Identification: Bring an original Passport or South African ID to verify your park entry fee bracket.
- Supplies: Pack bottled water and light snacks for the vehicle.
Is it dusty on an open vehicle safari?
Yes, many roads in the game viewing area are corrugated gravel.
During the dry winter months from May to September, vegetation thins and dust increases. Sunglasses help protect your eyes from the dust kicked up by other vehicles.
Does the clothing change by season?
The core principle of layering remains, but winter requires heavier gear.
May to September offers the best game viewing around permanent waterholes like Hapoor Dam. During these months, early morning open-vehicle drives are freezing.
Questions travellers ask
Are open safari vehicles cold?
Yes, early morning drives on open 4x4 cruisers are freezing due to wind chill. This is true even during the summer months.
Can I wear sandals on an Addo safari?
It is safer to wear comfortable, closed walking shoes. You will need them when exiting the vehicle at designated stops like Addo Main Camp.
Do I need to pack water if I book a tour?
Yes, it is recommended to pack bottled water and light snacks for the vehicle, even though full-day tours generally include lunch.
