Clothing Essentials
When packing clothing for a South African safari, focus on comfort, practicality, and blending in with the environment. Here are some must-haves:
Neutral Coloured Clothing: Stick to earth tones like beige, brown, and green. Avoid bright colors and patterns, as they can attract unwanted attention from wildlife.
Lightweight and Quick-Drying: Choose fabrics that dry quickly and are breathable, ideal for the African climate.
Long-Sleeved Shirts and Pants: These protect you from the sun and insects. Consider zip-off pants for versatility.
Warm Layers: Evenings can be chilly, especially during winter months, so pack a lightweight insulated jacket or fleece.
Comfortable Shoes: Closed, sturdy shoes are essential for walking safaris. Sneakers or hiking boots are ideal.
Socks and Underwear: Bring plenty of these, as you'll likely change them frequently due to dust and sweat.
Hat and Scarf: A wide-brimmed hat and a light scarf can protect you from the sun and dust.
Toiletries and Personal Items
Toiletries should be minimal and practical. Consider the following:
Travel-Sized Essentials: Pack travel-sized toiletries to save space and weight.
Biodegradable Soap: If camping or staying in eco-friendly lodges, biodegradable soap is a must.
Insect Repellent: Remember to pack for protecting against mosquitoes and other insects.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm: Protect your skin from the harsh African sun.
First Aid Kit: Include essentials like rehydrate, band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
Electronics and Accessories
For capturing memories and staying connected, consider these items:
Camera and Charger: A good camera is essential for capturing wildlife moments. Don't forget extra batteries or a portable charger.
Binoculars: View wildlife from a distance inside your car.
Power Bank: Keep your devices charged, especially if you're away from power sources for extended periods.
Reusable Bags: Bring reusable bags for shopping or carrying items during the day.
Miscellaneous Items
Other items to include in your packing list:
Travel Pillow and Earplugs: For comfort during long drives or noisy nights.
Multi-Tool or Pocket Knife: Handy for various tasks during the safari.
Dry Bags: Protect your gear from dust and rain.
Hand Sanitizer: Keep yourself clean when water is scarce.
Books or Entertainment: For downtime at the lodge.
Identification: Entrance fees for South Africans are lower, but you will need to show your ID card.
Tips for Packing Light
Packing light is crucial, especially if you're taking small charter flights:
Pack Only What You Need: Avoid overpacking by focusing on essentials.
Use Bag Dividers: Organize your luggage to ensure everything fits neatly.
Share Items: If traveling with others, consider sharing toiletries or other items to reduce luggage weight.
Choose Versatile Clothing: Items that can be dressed up or down are ideal for saving space.
Additional Tips for South Africans
For those that are not familiar with the South African climate, here are some additional tips:
Be Prepared for Weather Changes: South Africa's weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers for cooler mornings and evenings.
Respect Local Regulations: Avoid single-use plastics and camouflage clothing, which are often banned in national parks.
Engage with Locals: Learn a few basic phrases in local languages to enhance your interaction with guides and communities.
By following this guide, you'll be well-prepared for an unforgettable South African safari experience. Remember to pack smart, stay flexible, and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime!
Questions after the interview:
At the end of an interview there is usually an opportunity where you can ask any questions you might have. This is a great opportunity to show the interviewer that you are interested in the position as well as the company. It is a good idea to prepare a few questions before the interview – this can be done while you are doing research on the company.
Your questions should show the interviewer that you are a good candidate for the position. Try and avoid questions that are based on your personal needs and preferences, for instance:
- How much leave will I get in a year?
- Will I be considered for promotion in my first year?
- When will I get an increase?
- What time can I leave in the afternoon?
These questions are inappropriate at this stage and will probably raise concerns on the side of the interviewer. Should you be the successful candidate then all these questions will be answered in your letter of appointment so don’t waste this opportunity by asking these basic questions.
If the position is an entry level job or very junior then you are welcome to ask questions in line with the position, for instance:
- Why did the previous person leave the position?
- What would the successful person be tasked to do in a typical day?
- How does this position fit into the department and / or company?
- Could you explain the company structure to me?
- Is there any further education assistance or support?
If the position is more senior then you can prepare question around the following themes:
- current issues that will face the successful candidate;
- inter-personal challenges in the department;
- any process, technology or people challenges that needs to be attended to urgently;
- key result areas that need urgent attention in the first few months;
The above information should get you started. Prepare a few questions so that you can show your worth. Good luck with your interview!
