As we head into the winter months, hiking season starts calling. If you’ve got a walking safari lined up soon, you’re in for a proper day out. It’s wild, immersive and a little more demanding than you might expect, so your gear needs to keep up. If you’ve only got space for a few items and need to pack light, these essentials will carry you through every step.
What Is A Walking Safari?
A walking safari is exactly what it sounds like. No vehicle, no engine noise, just you, the bush and a trained guide leading the way on foot. The pace is steady, with regular stops to take in what’s around you. You’ll learn to read tracks, understand animal behaviour and start noticing smaller details, from vegetation to subtle signs of movement that you’d likely miss from a car. It’s a more immersive way to experience the bush, and it can be surprisingly physical, with hours spent walking along trails in open terrain.
What you do along the way varies, but typically includes tracking animals on foot, sometimes even larger game like rhino or lion, always under the guidance of experienced professionals. There’s also a strong focus on learning, particularly around native plants and how they’re used medicinally. Depending on where you’re staying, some walking safaris may include longer hikes or even the chance to sleep under the stars in the bushveld. At its core, it’s about slowing down and experiencing the environment up close, rather than observing it from a distance.
READ MORE: “I Swapped My Desk For The Karoo And Ended Up Walking Among The Big Five”
Here’s your “big five” list for the trail, plus a few extras if you’ve got space.
Hi-Tec Ladies Lizzy 3-1 Jacket
Trust us on this one – you’ll use every layer. If you’re heading somewhere with all four seasons in one day, this is the piece you’ll be most grateful for. It’s weatherproof, comfy and just makes every hike feel easier.
READ MORE: 9 Best Hiking Snacks, According To A Dietician
Bend Featherfeel Shorts
“These. Shorts. Are. Comfy. And somehow they still look effortlessly chic. Whether that’s scrambling over rocks or folding yourself into a pretzel for the perfect photo. Go for a darker colour if you’re walking dusty paths or sitting on the ground, but otherwise, they’re an easy win for any hike.” – Chamain van Zyl, Online Editor
Thule AllTrail X Hiking Pack 15L
“While I used a bigger pack for the main haul, this 15L bag is perfect for snacks, a raincoat and a water bottle on shorter hikes. I always say shoes and a backpack decide how your day goes – you want something breathable, supportive and easy to carry. This one ticks all the boxes”. – Chamain van Zyl, Online Editor
READ MORE: 3 Things To Look For When Buying A Hiking Backpack (Plus, 8 Amazing Ones To Buy Right Now)
Hi-Tec Rain Forest Widebrim
Between a hat and SPF, you cannot skip either. This wide brim gives you proper coverage across your face and neck, plus it doubles up as a handy shield when the rain sets in.
Salomon XA PRO 3D V9 GORE-TEX
Your feet work hard out there, so a supportive shoe is non-negotiable. This pair offers excellent stability around the ankles, solid grip on uneven terrain and, thanks to the GORE-TEX lining, dry feet even if you’re splashing through puddles.
READ MORE: The Basics Of Hiking And Trekking
Other Things You Might Want (But Don’t Need)
- Walking sticks for added stability
- Binoculars for bird and wildlife spotting
- A compact bird or animal guide
- Anti-mosquito spray or wristband
- Electrolyte sachets for long, hot walks
- A lightweight notebook for journalling or sightings
- Reusable blister plasters (future you will thank you)
