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What to Wear on Your First Safari: A Guide for the 50+ Woman Traveler
- Anne Marie aka Baldgirlwilltravel
- Apr 10, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Jul 29, 2025
As I prepare for my fourth safari experience, this time in South Africa, I reflect on what has worked best for me in terms of clothing over the years. Having previously explored the wilds of Kenya and Tanzania, I'm excited to immerse myself in South Africa's rich landscapes. The thrill of witnessing nature firsthand and seeing those majestic animals is unparalleled. It's essential to stay comfortable, practical, and stylish. This blog shares personal tips on dressing for a safari as a woman over 50.
When planning your safari attire, focus on breathable, lightweight clothing that doesn't break the bank. Neutral colors and comfortable, easy-to-move-in outfits are key. Whether it's your first safari or your fourth, these tips will help you feel prepared and confident.
What to Wear on Safari
1. Earthy, Neutral Tones
Choosing the right colors is crucial for both blending in with the environment and maintaining comfort. Stick to neutral tones like khaki, beige, olive green, and brown. These colors not only complement the natural surroundings but also help hide dirt and dust that is common on safaris. Avoid white, cream, and light colors, which can show dirt easily, and stay away from blue and black as these attract tsetse flies.
2. Layered Clothing for Temperature Variations
Safari temperatures can fluctuate, especially during morning and evening game drives. It's often chilly early in the morning and again in the evening, with warmer midday temperatures. Wearing a tank top under your jumpsuit or button-down shirt adds versatility, allowing you to adjust to changing temperatures by adding or removing layers as needed. This approach keeps you comfortable throughout the day.
3. Jumpsuit Options for Your Safari Adventure
I’m a big fan of jumpsuits for safaris. They’re lightweight, breathable, and offer the freedom of movement you need. While my all-time favorite jumpsuit is one I bought from Zara a few years ago (sadly no longer available), I’ve found some great options shared below, so you can find a similar style for your safari adventure!
Free People Let's Ride Railroad One-Piece 
Free People OneTeaspoon Aviator Jumpsuit 
Free People We The Free Margarita Jumpsuit
Button-Down Shirt with Breathable Pants
If a jumpsuit isn’t your style, I recommend pairing a button-down shirt with breathable pants. This option gives you plenty of flexibility, allowing you to roll up your sleeves and adjust the shirt for comfort during changing temperatures. Breathable, moisture-wicking pants help keep you cool, and you can easily layer depending on the weather. This combination gives you more versatility and is a practical choice for safari adventures. Here are my recommended button-down shirts and breathable pants for safaris:
Zara LINEN SAFARI SHIRT 
Zara Shirt made with linen. V-neck lapel collar and wide turned-up sleeves 
Zara SAFARI FLOWY SHIRT
Comfortable, Sturdy Footwear
You won’t be doing a lot of long hikes or intense walks, but you will be hopping in and out of safari vehicles and walking short distances around the camp or lodge. For comfort and practicality, wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes like sneakers or hiking boots. They’ll provide the support you need, especially if you’re navigating uneven terrain. I recommend avoiding flip-flops or open-toed sandals, as they won't provide the protection and support you need.
Here are my favorite sneakers and hiking boots and sneakers for safaris:
Sorel Women's ONA 503 Mid Cozy Shoes 
Michael Kors Colby Leather Combat Boot 
Sorel Women's ONA 503 Hiker 
Gucci Wmns Run Sneaker 'GG Crystal - Black 
Louis Vuitton Run AwayBlack Monogram (Women's)
4. Wide-Brimmed Hat for Sun Protection
The sun can be intense, especially in the morning and afternoon, so a wide-brimmed hat is essential for sun protection. Not only does it shield your face and neck from harmful UV rays, but it also adds a stylish touch to your safari look. I also recommend a safari hat with a net for added protection against insects, especially during certain times of the year when bugs are more prevalent.
Here is my favorite safari hat
Other Essential Safari Items
Beyond clothing, there are a few other must-have items that will enhance your safari experience. These accessories will help ensure you're prepared, comfortable, and enjoying every moment of your journey.
1. Bum Bag and Small Backpack
When it comes to carrying essentials, my bag of choice on safari is a bum bag and a small backpack. The bum bag is perfect for carrying things like my phone, sunscreen, and camera, while the small backpack holds items like extra water and snacks for longer excursions. Both are lightweight, comfortable, and keep everything organized and within reach.
Here are my favorite bum bags and small backpacks for safaris:
SKYSPER 15L/20L Foldable Hiking Backpack 
ZOMAKE Lightweight Packable Backpack 30L, Foldable 
G4Free 20L Lightweight Packable Backpack Travel Hiking Daypack Foldable 
Louis Vuitton Monogram Bumbag 
Gucci Monogram Jumbo GG Textured Dollar Calfskin Web Belt Bag 
Gucci Monogram Web Belt Bag Dark Brown
2. Handheld Fan for Cooling Off
Given the hot temperatures and potential menopause-related hot flashes, I always bring a handheld fan to keep cool. It’s lightweight and easy to carry, providing a breeze during warm moments when you need it most.
Here are some recommended handheld fans for safaris:
Gaiatop Portable Neck Fan 
JISULIFE Portable Handheld Fan, Mini 3 In 1
3. Insect Repellent and Protection
Insect protection is a must on safari. I recommend using an insect repellent that can be sprayed on your clothes, allowing them to dry before you wear them. This gives you added protection against bugs. Additionally, I always bring wipes for applying repellent to my exposed skin, like my hands and ankles.
Here are my favorite insect repellents and wipes:
OFF! Family Care Insect & Mosquito Repellent Spritz, Bug Spray Containing 7% DEET, Unscented Repelle 
Cliganic 10 Pack Mosquito Repellent Bracelets, DEET-Free Bands 
Repel 100 Insect Repellent, With DEET, 10-Hour Protection, 1-Ounce, (Pack of 6) 
Sting-kill First Aid Anesthetic Swabs, Instant Pain + Itch Relief from Bee Stings and Bug Bites, 10- 
OFF! Deep Woods Mosquito and Insect Repellent Wipes
4. Washcloth, Wipes and Other essentials
A washcloth or wet wipes are essential for freshening up during the day. I also always carry flushable wipes in case I encounter a bathroom without toilet paper. For added hygiene, I prefer to bring my own toilet seat covers.
Bleach Safe Black Makeup Washcloths for Face 
Toilet Seat Covers Paper Flushable (50 Pack) 
FOMIN - Antibacterial Paper Soap Sheets for Hand Washing 
Cottonelle Fresh Care Flushable Cleansing Cloths 
20CT Wet Ones Wipes
Final Thoughts
When it comes to safari fashion, comfort, functionality, and personal style should always come together. As a Black woman over 50, your safari attire should reflect your unique needs—practical, breathable, and stylish, while allowing you to fully enjoy the experience. Whether you choose a jumpsuit, a button-down with pants, or layered clothing, your safari wardrobe should keep you cool, comfortable, and prepared for anything the wild throws your way.
Don’t forget essential accessories like sturdy footwear, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a small bag to carry all your must-have items. Whether it’s your first safari or your fourth, dressing for adventure means you can focus on enjoying the stunning wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and the memories you’re making along the way.
Ready to Shop?
Now that you have the ultimate list of closet staples, it’s time to fill in the gaps in your wardrobe! I’ve linked all my top picks in my LTK shop, so you can grab the exact pieces I recommend.
And don’t forget—subscribe to my YouTube channel to watch my closet staples series and see my top picks for all of these essentials!
Because style has no expiration date, and neither does your confidence. Happy shopping, ladies!
Thinking about travel but not ready to go completely alone?
Hang out with me and some Fly 40+ Sistas in some cool places.
Visit my dedicated Meet Up Page to learn about my upcoming girls' trip for Fly 40+ women!
Interested? Link HERE for more details!
Grab a spot today! We are going to have a Time!!!
Thank You For Reading!
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