safari holiday gifts

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Safari Gifts for Wildlife Lovers

Choosing gifts for wildlife and safari lovers can be a very difficult task. When most safari lovers want nothing more than actually being on safari (which would be a very generous gift!), how do you choose what to buy them? 

Well, never fear! With this holiday gift guide for safari lovers, we share our favourite home accessories, wall art, jewellery and more to help you bring the safari to them. No matter what your budget or their tastes, there are plenty of wildlife gift ideas here for you to choose from.

1. African Prints

Wall art of any kind can make a wonderful memento from time spent in Africa. Etsy has tons to choose from, but this South Africa print is a beautiful style with neutral colours that would fit most households. This is the perfect gift for giraffe lovers and anyone who has been to South Africa on safari.

Check the latest prices and buy from Etsy right now.

2. Outdoor Art

Remember, art isn’t just for the inside of the home! Give the gift of an African garden with this beautifully rustic gate sign in the shape of a lion’s head. It’s available in different sizes to suit most garden gates, fences or wherever else you want to put it!

Check the latest prices and buy from Etsy .

3. Tealight Holder

One of the most budget-friendly gift ideas on this list, a tealight holder with a safari silhouette is a great reminder of the beautiful African sunsets. Again, available in lots of different designs and colours, with personalisation available too, you can give this candle holder a special meaning with your own message.

Check out the latest prices and buy from Etsy .

4. Giraffe Pendant

If you’re buying for someone who loves jewellery, how about a pendant shaped like their favourite safari animal? This giraffe necklace is made from sterling silver or 24-carat gold plate to suit their style, but there are plenty of other designs and styles available on Etsy. Take a look through the whole collection! 

Check the latest prices and buy from Etsy . 

5. Leopard Print Blanket

If you’re looking for a Christmas or holiday gift for your safari-loving friend, a blanket is perfect for those cold, wintry nights in the lounge or around the campfire outside! This pure wool blanket is as cosy as it is beautiful and comes in a variety of different colours and designs, either leopard or giraffe print. If either of these doesn’t take your fancy, take a look at the huge range of other styles available on Etsy. 

Check the latest prices and buy on Etsy .

6. Travel Map

Help your loved one keep track of their travels by gifting a world travel map to hang on their wall. This one is completely personalisable, in terms of size, colour and framing options. You can even include a personal message so they know it’s completely unique to them! The continents on the map are illustrated with the landmarks and animals you’ll find there, as another wonderful memory from their safaris and wildlife holidays. 

Check the latest prices and buy on Etsy . 

7. Faux Fur Christmas Decorations

Though the animal lover you’re buying for may have already put up their Christmas tree by the time they unwrap this gift, they’re sure to love these animal-shaped decorations ! It would make a wonderful reminder, each and every year, they unbox these ornaments to hang on the tree. It’s the gift that keeps on giving! 

8. Indoor Wall Art Set

These geometric design wooden animal heads would make a wonderful addition to any safari lover’s home. Available in a variety of designs and colours, your loved one can simply hang it on a blank wall to create a real talking point and a reminder of their time spent in Africa. Much better than a moose head! 

9. Giraffe Tee

If the person you’re buying for likes to display their love for wildlife in their clothing, what better than this uniquely designed giraffe t-shirt ? Available in a variety of colours, styles and sizes, you’re sure to find one they’ll love! 

10. Elephant Coat Rack

For a more practical gift for the home, how about this beautiful coat rack ? The elephant’s tusks and trunks make an ideal hook to store your loved one’s coats, scarves and other accessories. Check out the full range of safari-themed home accessories available on Etsy.

11. Elephant Stud Earrings

These adorable elephant earrings make a wonderful gift for any animal lover. Made from sterling silver and plated with Rhodium, they’re anti-tarnish and hypoallergenic, so your friend won’t have any problems with these studs. Not quite their style? There are plenty of other earring designs over on Etsy. 

Check out the latest prices and buy on Etsy .

12. Safari Print Doorstop

Your friend will love this safari print doorstop as a beautiful and practical addition to their home. Weighing in at 1.5kg, it’s heavy enough to keep even the heaviest of doors open or closed from draughts. There are also plenty of other doorstops available on Etsy if you’re after more of a novelty gift. How about this Zebra shaped one , or this elephant ?

Have a look at the full range to see the latest prices on Etsy .

13. Safari Print Cushion Covers

These adorable cushion covers made in a safari print by Sophie Allport are a beautiful yet understated way to bring the safari into an animal lover’s home. Available in a range of different shapes, sizes and styles, you’re bound to find something your loved one will treasure forever. How cute are the ones with a pom pom trim?

Check out the latest prices and buy on Etsy . 

14. Binoculars

Binoculars are a must-have when packing for a safari, so a good-quality pair makes a wonderful gift for safari enthusiasts. It’s like giving the gift of seeing animals close-up! There are plenty of different brands, types and focal ranges to suit all budgets and tastes, but you can browse the full range of available gadgets at Amazon . 

15. Safari Duffel Bag

Another gift idea for the animal lover that has everything, why not treat them to a brand new duffel bag to take with them on safari? Make their next trip a breeze with a soft-sided safari duffel bag that can be easily squeezed into the tiny luggage holds of bush planes, or a modern backpack with wheels to make their luggage even easier to carry.

Check out the full range at Craghoppers or The Safari Store to see my favourites. 

16. Safari Book

If the person you’re buying for loves reading, why not pick them out a new book to read on safari? There’s nothing quite like relaxing on the verandah outside your safari tent or lodge, reading a book that you can really bring to life with the sights and smells around you. My favourites include ‘A Year in the Wild’ by James Hendry and ‘Whatever you do, don’t run!’ by Peter Allison . Browse the full range at Amazon , or find out what my other favourites are over on my dedicated post about safari books . 

17. Animal Adoption

What do you buy for someone who has everything? Help them give back by adopting an animal on their behalf through WWF in the UK and the US , Born Free or the David Sheldrick Trust . The money raised through adoptions goes to protecting habitats, educating local communities and training rangers to protect the animals most in need. Adoptions often treat the recipient with regular updates and a soft toy, so it makes a wonderful gift too. 

18. Soft Toy

If you’re buying for a child or the young at heart, why not choose a handmade soft toy to keep them company? Our favourite is this crochet lion , with a squidgy belly and super soft tale and mane. Etsy sells lots of different designs, styles and sizes to choose from, you’re bound to find a cuddly creature they’ll love. 

19. Leopard Print Dress 

Are you buying for someone who loves fashion? Perhaps this dress with an all-over leopard print will take their fancy. Available in a choice of white and black, the dress is made from cotton and has adjustable straps and an elasticated back for a super comfy fit. 

20. Giraffe Flower Pot

This adorable flower pot in the shape of a giraffe makes a wonderful novelty gift for safari-goers or animal lovers. Standing 43cm tall, it’s a statement piece for any home and will brighten any corner with a medium or large houseplant. How about a palm or a fern to add to the jungle theme? Check out lots of different styles, sizes and shapes on Etsy.

21. Safari Coasters

Another practical gift for a safari lover’s home is this gorgeous set of four coasters with a zebra print and image on them. They’re handmade from natural stone and decoupage, so each coaster set and even individual coaster is completely unique for a very bespoke gift. 

22. Experiences 

If your loved one is heading out on safari soon, why not complement their holiday with a new experience or day trip while they’re there? For example, if they’re going to the Masai Mara in Kenya on safari, treat them to a day trip to explore the best of Nairobi on their way home, or animal lovers heading to South Africa might also enjoy a guided tour of Cape Town once they’ve had their wildlife fill.

There are lots to choose from on GetYourGuide , so check there first!

23. Safari Metal Candle Display

For a decorative gift with real wow factor, how about this beautiful candle display ? With space for six tealights, when lit, this display creates a stunning silhouette of an African sunset with all your favourite safari animals. If this one doesn’t take your fancy, there are plenty of other styles and designs you might prefer. Browse Etsy for the full range. 

24. Plant a Tree

A wonderful gift to buy anyone is a contribution to reforestation projects or a tree to plant in their garden. What better way to give back to the wonderful world that allows us to go on safari than new growth? Plenty of tree planting schemes are available, including Tree Aid , Treedom and One Tree Planted , but have a think about your loved one’s favourite destination and find one that works there. There might be a forest in Kenya you could contribute to or a rewilding project in Costa Rica that suits them better. Either way, planting a tree makes the perfect gift for everyone. 

25. Rhino Water Glass

If you’re still looking for the perfect gift for a safari lover, we think you’ve just found it! These drinking glasses are finished with an adorable animal figurine fixed on the bottom. Take your pick from a rhino , lion, giraffe, hippo, crocodile, elephant or bear , but when they’re all as cute as each other, you’ll have a hard time choosing!

26. Safari Mug

Your friend is already thinking about it, so why not buy them a mug that says “I may look like I’m listening but in my head, I’m on safari” ? It makes an ideal mug for the office or the home, to bring back wonderful memories of their time in Africa, and with the option of adding a custom message to the other side, they’ll know exactly who it’s from!

27. Keychain

If you’re looking for a gift on a budget, this keychain may be exactly what you’re looking for. Personalisable with an initial and a birthstone in addition to the adorable hippo charm, this keychain can be completely unique to the lucky person you’re buying for. If hippos aren’t their style, Etsy has plenty of other animals for you to choose from, including sloths, giraffes, monkeys and more.

Check the latest prices and purchase from Etsy .

28. Safari Luggage Tag

They’ll know exactly which one is their bag on the luggage carousel when you buy them this beautiful wooden luggage tag . With a safari motif, a plane cut out and space on the back to add personalisation, the tag is finished with a genuine leather strap and makes a wonderful gift for any safari-lover or travel addict. 

Check the latest prices and purchase on Etsy .

29. Travel Journal 

Help your loved one remember the best parts of their safari holiday with this choice of beautiful travel journals with safari animal sketches on the front . They’re A5 and handmade with lined paper for that traditional notebook style. For an extra special touch, the makers can personalise the journals with a vinyl message, title or name on the front so your loved one knows it’s just for them. Choose your favourite on Etsy. 

30. Carbon Offsetting 

For the eco-conscious gift recipient, why not carbon offset their latest trip or their next safari? If you’re new to the concept, carbon offsetting works by calculating how many tonnes of CO2 you would have emitted through a flight or day-to-day life, and then paying to have the equivalent amount restored through projects such as reforestation, clean drinking water and the development of renewable energy sources. Lots of carbon offsetting schemes exist, but some of our favourite include is Sustainable Travel International . Why not head there first?

So there you have it! The best choice of gifts to buy safari-lovers for Christmas, a birthday or any other special occasion. Have fun choosing! 

Anna is the founder of Really Wildlife. She's a 30-something lover of wildlife travel, vegetables and listening to the Lion King soundtrack on full blast.

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Holiday season safari gifts gift ideas for travelers, santa on safari safari gifts for the holiday season.

However you celebrate the holiday season, it is a time of kinship and giving.

Unlike the rewarding feeling of contentment and compassion instilled by presenting your loved ones with a wonderfully-wrapped present that induces a beaming smile, shopping for such gifts can be head-scratchingly frustrating.

Fortunately, we’re here to help. With our decades of extensive travel and safari experience, we have discovered a collection of items that, though perhaps not always essential, make any adventure a great deal easier. From generous presents to stocking fillers, we have compiled a collection of safari gifts to suit every traveler and any budget.

Although curated for safaris, these gifts are equally as suited to travelers of all kinds and even simply for lovers of the great outdoors.

Find inspiration with our sack of holiday season safari gifts:

Vuori Activewear

• Swarovski Binoculars
• Nikon Cameras
• LARQ Water-Purifying Bottle

Monos Packing Cubes

Blissy silk eye mask, ceptics world travel adaptor.

• Patagonia Backpack
• Brixton Safari Hat
• Apple iPad Air

PowerTraveller Solar Adventurer Charger

vuoriclothing.com

Activewear has long left the yoga studio and is now the go-to apparel for street, sand and safari. Long gone too is activewear’s adherence to tight-fitting lycra and revealing crop tops, now incorporating sweaters and jogging pants, buttoned shirts, looser garments and even snug winter jackets. Vuori creates products for the active and adventurous, but that is equally applicable to sexagenarian travelers as it is to gym junkies.

Wonderfully comfortable and of superb quality, Vuori apparel is light and compact, layerable and provides a wide range of applications, from long-haul flights to city walks and game drives. Don’t let the dashing twentysomething models dissuade you – Vuori is for everyone. 

Added to this, Vuori is a company with a conscience. Materials are sourced ethically and sustainability is a strong consideration throughout their range.

Swarovski Optiks

www.swarovskioptik.com

The gold standard in ocular assistance, Swarovski leads the world in binoculars. Their high-grade crystal lenses surpass almost any other brand and, even with the same level of magnification, your view is noticeably and profoundly clearer with Swarovski. 

Swarovski has become the preferred choice of rangers and guides across the planet, and many African safari guides have adopted them. Whilst you may think that any pair of binoculars will do, trying Swarovski for the first time, you will immediately understand just how wrong that assumption is. Not only do they provide crystal-clear vision during the day, they also work spectacularly well in low-light or overcast conditions, making them a winning choice for game drives, which often happen as the sun is rising or at the other end of the day and on into the night.

For optimal game viewing, we would recommend 10×45 magnification, but the more compact 8×32 or 8×25 options are more convenient to travel with while still providing excellent magnification. An added bonus is Swarovski’s VPA 2 variable phone adapter , which turns your binoculars into a telephoto lens for your phone.

Nikon Cameras 

www.nikonusa.com

Nikon has long been an industry leader in the realm of photography, and with the digital age upon us, they have remained one of the best in the business. 

A camera is a dream safari gift for anyone venturing to Africa in 2024, but equally as cherished for any vacation, event or outdoor exploration. With their myriad dials and settings, cameras can be a little daunting to the inexperienced, but even the most professional models feature fully-automatic settings, and Nikon’s intuitive design makes its range wonderfully accessible.

For beginners, a point-and-shoot model such as the CoolPix P950 provides plenty of zoom power and the option of interchangeable lenses with the addition of digital zoom, which doubles the distance. It’s also incredibly easy to use – it’s not called a point-and-shoot for nothing! Despite this, there are numerous technical capabilities behind the lens cap, and the P950 is bursting with features.

For the more advanced photographer, the D750 DSLR is a superb mid-range option. From fully auto to full manual, settings are completely customizable, taking in a range of conditions, subjects and circumstances. A vast array of lenses is available, enabling users to create hair-fine portraits of distant game, or switch for indoor shooting or images at close quarters.

LARQ Water Bottle

www.livelarq.com

If there could be one perfect yet completely affordable safari gift, it might well be the LARQ water bottle. Hydration is an essential part of travel, especially in warmer climates, and the LARQ gives you fresh, purified water wherever you go.

LARQ’s PureVis technology uses a UV-C light built into the cap to eliminate 99% of all waterborne nasties, giving you pure, clear drinking water anywhere you go. Whether topping up before a flight or filling from a mountain stream, LARQ eliminates bio-contaminants at the single press of a button. Its 20-second cycle kills all bacteria, while its insulated construction keeps water cool in any climate.

Especially when visiting third-world countries, LARQ is an endless source of delicious, clean, safe drinking water.

We love packing cubes! Unlike many other vacations, safaris incorporate a significant amount of traveling and transfers, and you may visit multiple different lodges within a single two-week itinerary. Due to this, your packing needs to be on its A-game, and packing cubes are the ideal way to make this possible.

Using individual cubes for different items – shirts, underwear, pants and shorts and so on – you can quickly and conveniently find precisely what you are looking for without having to don a miner’s lamp and belay your way into the depths of your suitcase.

Added to this, you can completely unpack, using each cube as its own drawer or basket and laying all of our items out in a wardrobe for easy viewing. When it’s time to move on, simply flip the lid, zip up your cubes and pop them back in your luggage.

Monos has a wonderful and stylish range of packing cubes with see-through covers for easy identification. The versatile four-piece set incorporates four sizes of cube, giving you plenty of options; a small cube for undergarments all the way up to a large cube that can accommodate folded shirts without causing wrinkles.

Long-haul flights, early mornings and new surroundings can often interrupt sleep, and it’s always important to wake bright-eyed and bushy-tailed for morning game drives. 

Whether taking a flight or staying in camp, Blissy ’s wonderfully soft and comfortable silk sleep masks ensure a good sleep in complete darkness. The cool and soothing silk surface lulls you into slumber, while the soft padding and band ensure complete comfort while comatose.

A sleep mask may seem like a small and insignificant safari gift, but we have found them to be worth their weight – albeit an incredibly light weight – in gold whenever traveling. Easy to pop in a purse or pocket, no traveler should leave home without a sleep mask.

www.ceptics.com

Travel adaptors have become an essential part of vacations in this age of gadgets and accessories. 

There is a vast amount of choice in travel adaptors, but what we have noticed is that the equally-vast majority fail in some areas. They may have five USB ports but no socket, which is essential for charging camera batteries or powering other travel accessories. When they do include sockets, they only have one USB. Most frustratingly, those that will serve the purpose are often bulky and have numerous parts to contend with.

Ceptics ’ all-in-one adaptor features two USB-A ports, two sockets and a built-in micro-USB cable, allowing you to plug in up to five devices at one time. It is wonderfully compact and features a range of interchangeable plugs, allowing it to be used in over 200 countries. It is also surge-protected and has a voltage meter, ensuring the safety of your electrical goods from even the most volatile of power sources.

Patagonia Black Hole 25L BackPack

www.patagonia.com

Patagonia has led the world in outdoor apparel and gear for decades, and its products are of an incredible quality while being sustainable and ethical.

Used on every continent and in any climate, their products are built for the outdoors and are a superb choice for travelers of all kinds.

Their Black Hole luggage range provides a suite of fantastic bags for travelers, from large duffels and wheeled carry-ons to totes and hip packs.

A backpack is one of the most incredibly useful safari gifts. During flights, it makes convenient carry-on baggage, leaving both hands free to deal with tickets, passports and other paraphernalia. On safari, a backpack can store your camera, a jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, water and anything else you may wish to take – especially valuable on a walking safari.

The Patagonia Black Hole 25L is small enough to be compact, but capacious enough to fit all you could need. Intelligently designed, it includes a secure padded slot for a laptop or tablet, a front compartment to easily access smaller items and documents, and numerous inner pockets to keep everything organized. Side pouches provide the perfect spot for a LARQ water bottle and a water-resistant coating makes it thoroughly weatherproof.

Made with 100-percent recycled fabric, it is also incredibly sustainable, and Patagonia’s iron-clad guarantee ensures that it will last for years and any repairs or replacement are always covered.

Brixton Safari Hat 

www.brixton.com

A good hat can be an invaluable accessory in the bush, but you still want to be stylish. 

Brixton ’s wide range of hats has something for everyone, including fedoras, caps and classic safari or rancher hats. Impeccably made of 100-percent wool felt, classically designed and available in a range of sizes and colors, Brixton’s range has a hat to suit every head.

Long days under the African sun make a good hat vital, and a Brixton chapeau an ideal safari gift.

Apple iPad Air 

www.apple.com

Though photography is so integral to travel, especially when on safari, editing on the go can prove challenging.

The small screens of phones and cameras makes photo editing a fiddly process at best, and transferring to cloud services or sending to loved ones can be awkward, if not impossible.

Apple offers a range of different iPads for work, play, entertainment and photo editing on the move, with an infinite number of apps to choose from. Photography isn’t the limit of an iPad’s usefulness though. Travel documents and itineraries can be safely stored, guide books and favorite novels can be downloaded, games or movies can be played, friends and family can be emailed, social media can be updated and one can even keep up to date with work on the go if such circumstances require.

Apple’s iPad Air is powerful yet small and lightweight, making it the perfect travel companion and an endlessly useful safari gift. 

Via www.backcountry.com

There is little worse when on safari than having a once-in-a-lifetime scene unfolding before you and realizing that your phone has snapped its last photo. 

Energy drained, screen blank, it’s little more than a pointless paperweight, and your magical moment will remain only in your memories.

The PowerTraveller Solar Adventurer Charger gives you juice on the go and an endless source of power. Its foldable solar cells keep it topped up for any emergency, so even if you forget to plug it in to recharge, you can still top it up with the sun. No more dead phone, no more moments missed, the Adventurer Charger will keep a phone ready for action 24/7.

Forgetting to charge a phone overnight, far too many things to photograph, lots of video time and all the other usual functions of a smartphone can induce a large and rapid drain on even a robust battery, so packing a portable charger is a fantastic way to ensure that you never run out of power again.

There is a lot to remember when planning for a safari. Numerous items can be forgotten and small challenges can crop up.

If you have friends or family members soon to be departing for an adventure – and hopefully taking you with them – our collection of recommended safari gifts will help you select the perfect present this holiday season.

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Best Gift Ideas for a Safari

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We’ve scoured the plains for some of the most unique Safari themed gifts out there! These gift ideas for a Safari will both celebrate your friend or family member’s love for African safari, as well as help them on their next trip!

Check out these Gift Ideas for a Safari

These gifts range from the thoughtful to the practical, with lot’s out there to explore dive right into our selection of safari themed gifts!

Mosquito Safari Hat

If you’re headed out on a safari you’d better look the part! This sun hat features netting to protect you from small insects that call it their home. Versatile and trendy, this hate will really make you look the part!

African Antelope Horns

These authentic bone antelope horns are a really great alternative safari gift idea for lovers of the african wilderness. Adventure lovers will find a place for it in their den or study as a conversation starter!

Emergency First Aid Kit

You can never guess what’s up ahead! Stay prepared on your next safari trip with this first aid kit! A handy tool that makes a great gift for any safari lover.

Camo Utility Vest

Camera gear, rations, and tools all need somewhere to go! Grab one of these camo utility vests to find a place for all of your safari gear! Looking the part is always important, and this trendy solution is a lifesaver on safari trips.

Africa Photo Frame

Photos make great memories, this picture frame features multiple spaces for cameos of your trip and some of the friends you made along the way. Use it to make a safari themed photo gift for your favorite safari lover as well!

Aspiring nature photographers headed out on a safari will be sure to pack their most coveted piece of gear, a zoom lens! Give the amateur safari enthusiast something to really make their trip special with this must have piece of kit!

Portable GPS/Radio

This handheld gadget is a top of the line device for those venturing out onto a safari trip. Featuring GPs, VHF calling, a light and a radio this baby has it all! Give a safari gift that is both practical and well loved like this nice piece of tech.

Mt. Kilimanjaro Wall Art

This map of the world famous mountain will grace the walls of your favorite safari traveler and makes a great decor gift! It will have them reminiscing about their travels when they’re not out on a trip!

One thing you don’t want to run short on a safari trip is food! These rations are designed for emergencies and pack a lot of calories in case you get lost. It also comes with drinking water pouches which are great for peace of mind. Going without is not something you should have to worry about on the trip of a lifetime.

Baby Safari Gifts

These bibs offer the best in a safari enthusiast’s arsenal; practicality and style. Give the gift of the safari for young giraffe lovers with this set of 4 safari animal bibs.

Canvas Rucksack

No safari trip is complete without this timeless canvas backpack. It’s where you’ll house all of your essential supplies and look stylish doing it. It also makes a great gift to help your friends upgrade before their next trip.

This pair of binoculars is a somewhat underappreciated piece of safari gear! You’ll need it to observe the vast landscapes offered by the natural beauty of the African wilderness. Grab one as a gift to give to your friend or family member for their next trip!

Mosquito Net

A hat isn’t all you’ll need to save yourself from the mosquitos! This net is the ultimate must-have for safari goers. Large enough to fit a sleeping bag and supplies underneath, it would make a great addition to a safari themed gift basket!

Camera Case

This compact camera case features multiple storage solutions in one package. A spot is included for a camera, phone, GPS and whichever other gadgets and batteries you might need along the way!

Mugs are always a surefire gift for any fan of just about anything, and best believe there’s a mug out there for them! This mug features a giraffe motif against a canvas colored and lovely detailed mug!

DJI Phone Mount for Photography

This is a sophisticated handstand stabilizer for cell phones. It’s an amatuer photographers dream, and you’ll be taking lots of photos on your safari! Great as a surprise gift for your friends or family heading out on their next journey.

Botswana Coin Earrings

These elegant coin earrings are a safari fan’s dream come true! A stylish way to show off your love for the African wilderness and culture, they’d make a great gift for any safari enthusiast!

Handmade Model Safari Truck

A cute and functional toy, this handmade Safari truck is a recognizable and well loved image of any safari traveler’s journey! Makes a great souvenir, desk ornament, or toy for any safari lover!

Stylish Tanzania Poster

This piece of wall art combines pop-style with a gorgeous and memorable Tanzania landscape. Featuring it’s famous mountain and urban skyline, this makes a great piece of decor for any lover of African culture and travel!

Thanks for checking out our top gift ideas for a safari! Let us know if you picked up any pieces of gear as a gift or for your next trip, happy travels!

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The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate the spirit of giving than by embracing the wonders of nature? If you have a nature enthusiast or wildlife lover on your gift list, our Safari-Inspired Holiday Gift Guide contains carefully curated gifts capturing the essence of safari, bringing a touch of the wild into your loved one’s life.

For a truly impactful and meaningful gift, consider adopting one of Conservation South Luangwa’s incredible K9 detection dogs. For US$200 a year, you can support the ongoing training and upkeep of these remarkable canines, playing a crucial role in wildlife conservation efforts in Zambia.

How it works

Adoption Package: Your US$200 contribution includes a Certificate of Adoption and regular updates from the K9 team every three months. It’s not just a gift; it’s a connection to the front lines of conservation.

Meet the Heroes: Get to know the unsung heroes of our K9 team – Rudi, Earl, Tygee, Gene, Cassi, and Ody. Each dog has a unique story and contributes significantly to the preservation of Zambia’s wildlife.

Conservation Impact: These dogs are not just companions; they are trained to detect ivory, bushmeat, guns and ammunition, lion bones and skins, leopard skins, and live pangolins. Their work is crucial along the boundary of South Luangwa National Park and across Zambia’s Eastern Province.

By adopting a K9 detection dog, you are not only supporting the livelihood of these incredible animals but also actively contributing to the fight against wildlife crime. It’s a gift that makes a real difference in the conservation landscape.

For the avid photographer and adventurer, select captivating safari adventure and photography books that transport them to the heart of the wilderness. Here are some of our favourite safari books that promise to ignite the spirit of exploration:

Give the gift of sustainable style with eco-friendly safari apparel and accessories inspired by Mulberry Mongoose . This ethical brand combines fashion with a conservation mission, offering a range of accessories crafted from recycled and sustainable materials.

Mulberry Mongoose’s collection features stunning jewelry made from reclaimed snare wire, transforming a tool of harm into wearable art. Consider gifting their unique pieces, from intricately designed bracelets to elegant necklaces, each telling a story of wildlife conservation and community empowerment.

Transform your loved one’s living space with the timeless charm of Tribal Textiles . Adorn their home with handcrafted pieces inspired by the rich cultural tapestry of the safari. Tribal prints and patterns, reminiscent of Zambia’s indigenous communities, bring a touch of authenticity and elegance to any room.

Tribal textiles offer a unique way to bring the warmth and character of the safari indoors. Elevate your loved one’s living space with these culturally rich and visually stunning decor pieces that echo the rhythms of nature.

Shenton Safaris E-Voucher

Looking for the perfect gift that opens the door to unforgettable wildlife experiences? Shenton Safaris introduces personalized e-vouchers, the ultimate present for the safari enthusiast in your life. With a Shenton Safaris e-voucher, the recipient can decide how to use their gift, making it a versatile and thoughtful present.

• Choose Your Amount: Decide the value you want to gift. Whether it’s gifting someone a stay, contributing to an existing booking, giving the gift of a night in one of our exclusive star beds, or adding extra nights to their stay, the choice is theirs.
• Contact Us: Reach out to us via email at [email protected] with your preferred voucher amount and details.
• We’ll Organize the Adventure: Once contacted, we’ll work with you to create a customized e-voucher, tailored to your specifications. It’s that simple!

These carefully curated gifts not only bring the wild into your loved one’s life but also contribute to the preservation of nature. From adopting a K9 detection dog to adorning homes with tribal textiles, each gift tells a story of conservation and connection.

Happy gifting, and may your holidays be filled with magic!

To read previous blogs, please click  here.

About Megan Woolley

Megan Woolley has written 36 post in this blog.

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Luxury Christmas Gifts For Safari-Going Loved Ones

From advanced selfie sticks to gift vouchers that aid conservation to a clip-on iPhone camera lens, we’ve pulled together our top ten gift ideas that we think will delight the African safari and wildlife fan in your life.

Advanced selfie stick – A lightweight aluminium pole and a sturdy phone holder (key to not having a smashed phone on the floor in front of you)

Image courtesy of Opticron

There’s a tiger out there who thinks you’re terrific

Wildlife Photography Day – via Peter Rhodes’ site (one of the experts in photography)

Image courtesy of Aspiga

Photicular Animal pictures come to life and appear to be videos on a page

Wildlife Photographer of the Year – Portfolio 24

Travel Treats – via Biscuiteers website

Savannah Diaries – by Brian Jackman

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11 Gifts for Newlyweds Going on a Safari Honeymoon

By Stephanie Wu

There are two cardinal—and conflicting—rules when it comes to figuring out what you’ll need for your first safari . First of all, you’re most likely going to need to buy a lot of stuff, unless you’ve already embraced an entirely green and khaki wardrobe. The second is that you’re going to need to pack as light as humanly possible.

Much has changed about safaris over the years: the lodges seem to get fancier and fancier ; there’s a bigger push into (even more) eco-friendliness ; and a handful of new flight routes have made the African continent much more accessible from America. But what has largely stayed the same is that safaris are big-ticket, milestone trips—and newlyweds increasingly opt to make it their first major post-nuptial trip. And while some will register for a safari honeymoon on Zola by asking for luggage and money toward excursions, few will think ahead about what they’ll need to buy . Here are some gifts to get the new couple on their safari honeymoon. They’re all built to last, and will likely come in handy for many, many more trips to come.

All products featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Want more shopping recommendations from our editors? Sign up for our Packing List newsletter .

Backpack or daypack

Game drives can take anywhere from a few hours to the better part of a day, so a decent-sized backpack that can hold all your essentials, from camera and water bottle to sunscreen and mosquito repellent, is invaluable. This Lululemon Early Embark Backpack is super versatile, with an exterior pocket that will fit your passport and binoculars during a game drive, and an internal sleeve for a laptop—should you plan to bring one. Plus, it has a strap that allows it to sit on a carry-on suitcase for future vacations where wheels are allowed.

Buy Now: Lululemon Early Embark Backpack, $178, lululemon.com

Camera and lens

Smartphones work for just about every trip these days—but not a safari, where you’ll need a powerful zoom to capture animals from far away and decent stabilization to photograph the quick-moving animals. The mirrorless Sony Alpha A6300 is a great starter camera. It’s lightweight, easy to use right out of the box, shoots 4K video, and will work with all Sony lenses, so you can switch up the lenses down the line as you get more comfortable with the camera. Throw in a decent zoom lens (at least 55 millimeters)—it’ll make those safari honeymoon photos so much better—or a gift card to LensRentals.com so the newlyweds can try a few out. Most Sony cameras come with a bag, but if you’d like to buy something more stylish, look to our camera bag round-up .

Buy Now: Sony Alpha A6300 Mirrorless Camera, $1,000, adorama.com Buy Now: Sony E 55-210mm Lens, $348, amazon.com

Packable jackets

Layering is key on a safari vacation, where the days can be warm and the nights get chilly quickly. Plus, with game drives that often start before the sun rises, you’ll need plenty of layers to peel off throughout the day. We love the classic Uniqlo ultra light down jackets, which come in a variety of colors (we’d go for the neutral green or khaki) and zip into a packable, compact pouch when not in use.

Buy Now: Uniqlo Women’s ultra light down jacket, $50, uniqlo.com Buy Now: Uniqlo Men’s ultra light down jacket, $60, uniqlo.com

A decent pair of binoculars will make all the difference on a game drive. While most guides will have one to share, it doesn’t take long before safari-goers want a pair for themselves, to spot birds from afar or lions hiding among tall grass. This pair is compact and lightweight, but works great for all safari needs with its 12 times magnification. Stave off any hogging by picking up two.

Buy Now: G4Free 12x25 Compact Binocular, $25, amazon.com

Jessica Puckett

Caitlin Morton

Olivia Morelli

Comfortable layers

Just about every item you pack for a safari trip needs to serve multiple purposes. For men’s essentials, look to Buck Mason, which makes long-lasting lightweight t-shirts and comfortable sweatshirts that transition from airplane to safari vehicle. The Lightweight Double Slub Sweatshirt is a piece he’ll never want to take off.

Buy Now: Buck Mason Lightweight Double Slub Sweatshirt, $72, buckmason.com

Soft-sided bag

Most safari packing lists will tell you that you’ll need a lightweight, soft-sided bag without wheels for those tiny charter flights you’ll be taking to get from lodge to lodge. We like the sturdiness and stylishness of this Filson Medium Rugged Twill Duffle Bag , which comes in a variety of safari-friendly neutral colors. It’s rain-resistant and easy to clean, and the medium, at 43 liters, is a carry-on friendly size. If you really want to go above and beyond, go for the complimentary embossing and add personalized initials to the bag.

Buy Now: Filson Medium Rugged Twill Duffle Bag, $395, filson.com

Zip-off pants

Zip-off pants are a safari staple—a versatile item that also saves a ton of packing space. Unfortunately, they’re typically not the most stylish of items. Outdoor Voices is putting an end to this stereotype with its RecTrek Zip-Off Pants. The pants can be styled as full-length, capri, or shorts, depending on which section you zip off, and have an adjustable waistband and multiple pockets. And, they magically look flattering, too. If any one clothing item can be considered a safari game-changer, this is it.

Buy Now: Outdoor Voices RecTrek Zip-Off Pants, $115, outdoorvoices.com

Packing cubes

We could go on all day about how great packing cubes are , but on a safari they are a triple threat. They’ll separate your dirty clothes from your clean ones (until you reach a lodge with free laundry, at least), your day clothes from your evening ones, and your safari clothes from your swimming clothes (for that beach portion that many tack on). The nomadic nature of most safaris means you’ll be packing and unpacking a lot, even more of a reason to stay organized with packing cubes. To really double down on the safari theme, go for Calpak’s leopard-print five-piece packing cube set.

Buy Now: Calpak Five-Piece Packing Cube Set, $48-$70, nordstrom.com

If you have to wear a safari hat—and you do, to protect yourself from sun and dust—you might as well make it a stylish, packable one. Janessa Leoné makes some of the best. This Luca hat goes with all your safari neutrals, will maintain its shape when stuffed in a bag, and won’t make you feel like you’re on a middle-school field trip.

Buy Now: Janessa Leoné Luca Hat, $228, orchardmile.com

Even the most minimalist of packers will have to find a way to further pare down their wardrobe on a safari trip. Aday’s capsule collections do an incredible job of making packing easy, with the multiple mix-and-match pieces, all of which are easy to clean and wrinkle-resistant. We love the That’s a Wrap top, which can be worn as a long-sleeve or open over a short-sleeved top as an extra layer, and the Over in One dress, for when you’re lounging in the lodge and can’t bear to wear cargo pants for another minute. The Easy Days pant is a no-brainer for travel days.

Buy Now: Aday Five-Piece Carry-On Capsule, $575 with code CARRYON, aday.com

Insect repellent wipes

Because every gift guide needs a stocking stuffer, don’t overlook these insect repellent wipes. They’re tiny and easy to keep in every bag, and are fantastic for getting those little tiny areas that your spray bottle just can’t seem to hit—ankle, back of neck, and more. Plus, you can swipe them across your face if you’d rather not give yourself a mouthful of mosquito repellant with the spray nozzle. And these are carry-on friendly, too, so you can avoid checking a non-TSA-friendly can of spray.

Buy Now: Off Botanicals Insect Repellent Towelettes, $7, amazon.com

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Gifts that Give Back to Africa's Wildlife

Gifts that Give Back

As family and friends gather together for the holidays, feelings of gratitude and happiness abound. During this time of giving, you can easily channel a little of that love into your gifts by getting ones that give back to African wildlife. We’ve collected some of our top conservation-based gifts in a range of prices so you can support your favorite safari critters no matter what your tastes are.

J. Crew Elephant Tees – Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

Available in women’s and men’s styles, these tee-shirts support the adorable baby elephant and rhino orphans at the Daphne Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Click on the images below to check them out:

Endangered Species Chocolate

Who doesn’t love a bar of delectable chocolate this time of year. Whether stuffing a stocking or tucking a bar into a hostess gift, you can’t go wrong with treats that support wildlife conservation. Available in classic flavors like Peppermint Crunch, or unique ones like Cinnamon, Cayenne & Cherries, you can purchase them online or at your local grocery store. Click on the images below to purchase:

Carved Wood Napkin Rings – World Wildlife Fund

Carved in the shape of iconic African wildlife, these napkin rings are the perfect way to bring a little safari charm to your next dinner party. Click on the image below to donate:

Framed Rhinoceros Art – World Wildlife Fund

Didn’t get any Nat Geo worthy shots last time you were on safari? No worries – with this beautiful rhinoceros print you can adorn your walls in gorgeous artwork. Click on the image below to donate:

Fostering a Baby Elephant - Daphne Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

If you're looking to make a donation in someone's name rather than buying a gift, it doesn't get any better than fostering a baby elephant. You can even read through the profiles of their little residents to choose which sweetheart you want to sponsor. Nothing warms your heart like knowing you're supporting the adorable orphans at the Daphne Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Click on the adorable photos below to browse the profiles:

BE-Jewelled – Wild Aid

If you really want to go all out, the BE-Jewelled collection by Alexander Jewell is a stunning way to show your love of conservation. Created to support Wild Aid, the line features pieces honoring African wildlife. With pieces for both men and women, this is a very special way to give back. Click on the pieces below to shop:

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23 Top Safari Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

Many people view an African safari as the ultimate “bucket list” travel destination—and for good reason! There is a particular enchantment about the open savannah, largely untouched by civilization and inhabited by the most stunning creatures. It is something that has to be experienced to be truly understood.

For most people, the prospect of going on a safari is both exhilarating and intimidating. That’s why I’ve put together this Safari packing list and a section on what to wear on a safari . There’s also helpful information on what NOT to bring, and answers to FAQs. Wherever you are going on a safari, these must-haves are sure to have you covered for just about any situation you might encounter.

What to Pack for a Safari – 23 Essentials

1. neck wallet.

Keep important documents safe with a neck wallet. As you experience long travel days and inevitably get exhausted, it’s important to keep your passports in one place. This organizer can be worn around your neck to minimize the risk of pickpocketing or losing something essential. It can hold passports, phones, credit cards, and anything else you wouldn’t want to risk losing. It even has RFID-blocking material to stop digital thieves from scanning your credit cards.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Insect Repellent Wristbands

Since most safaris will be in Africa, you’ll want to protect your family from regional mosquito-born illnesses, including Zika, Chikungunya, Dengue Fever, malaria, and West Nile. Instead of being under attack from annoying and potentially harmful bug bites, use mosquito repellent to stay ahead of these pests. We like the wearable option instead of respraying toxic fumes all day.

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Many countries in Africa censor the Internet. A good VPN can help prevent your connection from being blocked. Additionally, a VPN makes it extremely difficult for hackers to access your information or steal your private data. Cybercrime is up by a huge percentage in recent years, with over 100,000 attacks in 2023 in South Africa alone.

Since a great deal of your travel time might be spent putting in credit card information and flight details – not to mention passport ID or social security numbers – having a secure connection is critical. NordVPN is our go-to because they are affordable and will protect you with one click.

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

Not only is it uncertain that your hotel will provide a towel, but it may not be up to your standards of hygiene. In case you have dirty towels (or no towels) bring along your own for the journey. This one is great for hiking since it’s not big and fluffy like hotel towels. It also dries 10x faster than cotton as a more practical microfiber material. We find tons of uses for it along the way!

5. Binoculars with Phone Adapter

Africa boasts some of the most majestic scenery that planet Earth has to offer, not to mention its most mysterious creatures. One of the most essential items on your list, after investing so much to get here, is being able to take in the sights clearly. These are high-quality so you can get epic views but still maintain a safe distance. These even have an adapter so you can plug them into your phone for views and live-action screenshots.

6. Universal Power Adapter

You will likely be using major cities as the jumping-off point for your safari, and you will want a power adapter to suit these destinations. In terms of the safari itself, many people opt for glamping or camp resort experiences, and these sites usually offer electrical power as well. Come prepared with a universal power adapter that is suitable for anywhere you go. This one works in 100+ popular countries and comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee.

(Note: If you’re headed to southern Africa, you’ll want to bring a South Africa-specific adapter as well).

7. Travel Insurance for a Safari

Accidents do happen and can be even more common when venturing far from home. Traveling for a safari is not cheap anyway, so why wouldn’t you pay a small amount extra to protect your travel investment? The last thing you want is to pay out-of-pocket for international medical bills, expensive medivacs, lost luggage, or flight cancelations. Being that your domestic provider generally will not cover you overseas (Medicare and Medicaid in particular), you have to protect yourself from bills that would be difficult to recover from.

Faye is our favorite travel provider because they make the process a breeze through their mobile app. It’s probably one of the cheapest aspects of your trip and well worth it for the peace of mind alone! Faye even covers entire trip cancelation, which is very rare for an affordable provider.

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

8. Cooling Towel

One thing there’s no shortage of on a safari – is HEAT! The open savannah doesn’t offer air conditioning, but cooling towels are just about the next best thing. Simply by adding water, this magical towel drops to nearly 30-degrees colder than the outside temperature. It’s such a sweet relief on a hot day, and we wouldn’t travel anywhere warm without these. If the effects start to minimize, just add more water and you’re good to go!

9. High-Quality Filtered Water Bottle

Do not drink the local tap water. It is critical to avoid drinking unsafe water in Africa and many other less-developed areas as well. While many resorts and safari camps offer bottled water, it is best to make sure you have a consistent source of safe drinking water to stay hydrated in the severe heat. This Grayl option is worth the price-tag since it’s such undeniable quality! It will protect you from harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, microplastics, sediment, chlorine, pesticides, and more.

10. Portable Universal Charger

If you are going to be away from electrical outlets for a while, you will need a universal charger to keep your electronic devices fully charged. There are not generally electricity grids in the middle of the savannah, so use this charger to stay on-the-go. It has multiple USB ports so you can charge your devices quickly and efficiently.

11. Motion Sickness Relief

If you’re prone to any motion sickness, the safari land cruisers and game-viewing vehicles can be very bumpy! Use these patches to stay ahead of any nausea. They’re all natural and make a big difference in your comfort level for this exhilarating part of your trip! We also use them on boat rides, driving on windy roads, at amusement parks, and more.

12. Windproof Travel Umbrella

During the summer months especially, rain is common and you’ll want to come prepared with a lightweight umbrella. It’s also brilliant to have for shade protection and just getting out of the sun for a bit on a long day of animal watching! This one is our favorite because it’s good quality and weighs only one pound.

13. Deodorant Wipes

When you are on a safari, it’s not always feasible to take a shower right when you need one. Deodorant wipes are the next best thing. These are refreshing and cooling with scents like mint and cucumber. They cleanse away sweat, dirt, and odors so you can enjoy long days without feeling sticky.

14. Paracord Bracelet

When you are trekking into the middle of the great outdoors, it’s always wise to have a few tools on hand. A paracord bracelet blends style and practicality, providing a few essential tools such as a flint fire starter, emergency whistle, and a compass.

15. Travel Backpack

Safaris often involve side trips, whether that side trip is an extended hot air balloon ride or a jeep drive to catch a glimpse of the Serengeti’s wildebeest migration. Make sure you bring a travel backpack that will carry everything you need for the day (like your phones, water bottles, neck wallet, umbrella, etc).

16. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

We’ve sadly had something stolen out of our checked luggage. Now, anytime our bags are going to be out of sight or exposed to areas with petty theft – we bring these locks. They can be attached to your suitcase, backpack, or lockers in public areas. They’re also TSA-approved, so security won’t give you any fuss over securing your bags.

17. Jet Lag Relief

They say that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Well, a journey to Africa often begins with what feels like a thousand layovers! Jet lag pills will help you be ready to hit the ground running instead of taking days to adjust to the drastic time change. We use them on the way there, and when we return home to get back on track faster.

18. Packing Cubes

Packing your essentials while staying lightweight and organized can be a challenge even for the most experienced of travelers. Use packing cubes to keep everything tidy and well-organized. These come in a variety of colors so every family member can have their own, and even bonus laundry bags to separate dirty and clean items. I can promise that once you try them – you won’t go back!

19. First-Aid Kit

Do not risk a small cut or wound getting infected. While the odds of sustaining a serious injury while on a safari are pretty low, any kind of travel comes with the risk of bumps and bruises. A first-aid kit can help take care of pesky cuts and abrasions and everything you need comes in this compact case.

20. Convertible Hiking Pants

These hiking pants are the perfect safari wardrobe. They allow you to wear longer pants – or unzip them at the knee if you want a cooler shorts-style. It’s nice if hiking and you step in a muddy puddle, you can easily convert these back and forth between shorts and pants. They also have temperature-regulating material to keep you warm or cool, depending on the environment. Smarty pants!

21. Hanging Toiletry Bag

African bathrooms are not generally huge, unless you’re staying in a luxury resort. Regardless of whether you’re in a bungalow or camping outside – this hanging toiletry bag is a game-changer! It can hang anywhere and offer you a built-in storage system for all toiletry items like skincare, haircare, and makeup products. We never travel without ours. It’s one of the best items we’ve come across for consolidating the most regulated items.

22. Activated Charcoal

While traveling to a foreign country, the odds are that you might encounter foods and flavors you haven’t encountered before. In case you get hit with food poisoning or a bad stomach ache – activated charcoal is wise to have on-hand. It is an easy way to help rid your body of unexpected toxins and get back to enjoying your vacation.

23. Camera with Zoom Lens

As an obvious but necessary packing list item, you will definitely want top-notch photos of your safari. Document the moment with this Canon set that includes a versatile kit lens and a powerful zoom lens to capture wildlife in the distance. It will make a big difference to walk away from the trip with images you will treasure for a lifetime, rather than blurry shots on your phone that will likely get lost there forever.

Other Safari Packing List Items

• Discounted tours
• “Just in case” bag
• Windproof/waterproof jacket
• Dustproof camera bag
• Insulated water bottle
• Sunglasses case
• Hand sanitizer
• Travel power strip
• TSA-approved travel-sized bottles
• Polythene-free storage bag
• Citronella soap
• Shampoo bar case
• Flip-flops or sandals
• Waterproof shoe bag
• Lip balm with sunscreen
• Travel umbrella
• Bug bite cream
• Solid shampoo
• Mini hairbrush
• Pocket knife
• Travel laundry detergent
• Clothesline
• Waterproof phone case
• Flotation strap
• Selfie stick
• Memory card
• Flash drive
• Steripod toothbrush cover
• Travel pillow
• Protein bars
• Hat with bug net
• Fleece jacket
• Rain jacket

What to Wear on a Safari

Going on a safari will present you with a range of conditions. In particular, many travelers find it difficult to straddle that line between fending off the heat and the bugs. The bugs will leave you wishing you had better covered up, the heat will leave you wanting to shed longer layers.

The best way to approach this dilemma is to find the perfect blending of the two. During the hottest parts of the day, it is probably okay to wear shorts as long as you properly apply bug spray. During the dawn and dusk hours, when disease-carrying mosquitoes are at their most active, you will want to make sure you are covered by lightweight clothes that have ideally been pre-treated with bug repellant.

Either way, make sure you pack a pair of comfortable shoes with good tread.

In general, women should wear lightweight clothing that comfortably covers knees and shoulders. This is out of respect for local customs and culture as much as it is an added barrier against bugs and sun exposure.

Lightweight, stylish pants that cover your entire legs and ankles work well. Soft, light materials shirts also work well for staying cool. Keep in mind that darker colors are not only worse for heat but also for attracting mosquitoes. And don’t forget to pack at least one nice dress , as there are sure to at least one day or night where you will be relaxing over a nice dinner at your safari lodge or resort.

For men, wearing gear that is both lightweight and rugged is the way to go. As mentioned previously, avoiding bug bites is also of top concern, so the better the coverage you can get (while staying cool) the better.

Cargo shorts are good to have on hand, as well as at least a few changes of soft, lightweight shirts in both long and short sleeves. A baseball cap works well for staying put on your head during safari rides, but a more stylish brimmed hat can be nice for other sightseeing activities as well. Don’t forget to pack at least one set of nicer pants and a shirt as the opportunity for a nice dinner is likely at some point during your trip.

Packing for the Seasons in Safari

Safari in dry season – april, may, june, july, august, september, october :.

Dry months might be warm during the day but can be deceptively cool at night Convertible zip-off pants and a sturdy pair of sandals can allow you to easily go from one to the other without a lot of hassle. Layers will allow you to also accommodate fluctuations in temperature. Don’t forget a jacket to give you an extra layer of warmth when you need it.

Safari in WET SEASON – November, December, January, February, March:

If are traveling during wet season, keep in mind that road conditions might be muddy, which means your walking conditions will be muddy as well Waterproof shoes are a must. Keep in mind that wet conditions don’t necessarily mean cold, so layers are critical to effectively navigating the fluctuations in temperature. A rain jacket and water-resistant backpack will help you keep your belongings (and yourself!) cool and dry.

Glamping or Camping – In many regions of Africa it can be surprisingly cool at night and in the early morning. Wool is a versatile material that will keep you cool when it gets hot, and hot when it gets cold. Packing other favorites such as t-shirts and your favorite yoga pants are good options as well.

Jeep treks – Lightweight clothes, layers, and a brimmed hat that fits snugly and won’t fly off can all help you enjoy the drive without having to pack too much into your day bag.

What NOT to Bring on a Safari

Heavy luggage is a no-no on most vacations, but this is especially true when it comes to going on a safari. The best way to bring your library of books to wile away the long layover hours is by buying a Kindle or other e-reading device

2. Unnecessary valuables:

There’s really no reason to pack fancy jewelry while you are on a safari, and don’t bring too much extra cash either. Not only is there a risk of theft or loss, but the idea of a safari is to get in touch with nature.

3. Too many clothes:

The best way to maximize your luggage is to pack basic outfits that can work in multiple situations, temperatures, and then to hand wash them on the go if possible.

Not only are drones bulky, they aren’t allowed in most regions where you might be going on a safari. If you bring one where they are prohibited, you run the risk of having it confiscated, never to be seen again.

5. Sleeping bags:

Unless your safari journey specifically entails heavy-duty camping and you are in charge of bringing your own gear, a sleeping bag is unnecessary and will only weigh you down.

6. Plastic bags:

Plastic bags have been banned in many African countries. If you are caught with duty-free plastic bags, you might be asked to get rid of them, or worse, receive a fine.

FAQs about Safaris

1. where should i go on an african safari.

There are many options for first-time safari trekkers, but in general, the top 3 most popular destinations include the Masai Mara in Kenya, Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, and Kruger National Park in South Africa. Choosing which one is best varies from person to person.

Flying is the easiest way to reach Moab, with Canyonlands Field Airport just 20 miles outside of town. It’s a very small airport though, and only has flights to Denver, which are pretty pricey. Otherwise, you can fly into Grand Junction, which is just under two hours away, or the nearest major airport is Salt Lake City, almost four hours from Moab. Fortunately, in either case, there’s some beautiful scenery along the way. Some destinations, such as Kenya, have better safari travel structures in place but often come at a higher cost. Others, such as Tanzania, are a bit more rustic in their approach but can be easier on the pocketbook. Each destination has its own unique beauty to offer, and exploring these offerings is half the adventure!

2. What is the best time of year to go on a safari?

Africa is a huge continent, with safaris available in a multitude of countries. Because of this, there is no“one size fits all” answer to figuring out the best time of year to go on a safari. In general, dry seasons are a safer bet as roads tend to be less likely to close down. Additionally, it can be more optimal for spotting animals because the dry season tends to force your favorite “must-see” animals to congregate around the same watering holes and other water sources, which makes them easier for guides to spot.

Perhaps the most important thing to consider is what matters to you in terms of what you hope to achieve by going on a safari. Popular activities such as witnessing the Serengeti migration or a visit to Kruger National Park can vary wildly in what is considered “peak” season. For example, if seeing baby animals is high on your list, November through March is the season for babies at South Africa’s Kruger National Park.

Making a wish list of the experiences that matter most for your safari will help you better decide the best time of year to visit.

3. Are African safaris ethical?

Going on an African safari is ethical as long as you go about it thoughtfully. Watch for tour providers that focus on ethical tourism meant to provide a safe experience for both you and the animals. While getting the perfect selfie next to your favorite animal might be high on your bucket list, consider choosing activities that are easier on the ecosystem, and respectful of the animal’s natural habits. In general, activities focused on enjoying the animals from a distance are best.

4. Are African safaris safe?

As long as you are following the rules and not participating in blatantly dangerous behavior, yes, African safaris are considered very safe! However, it is always wise to check with your government’s travel site to make sure there aren’t any travel advisories in place, as well as to get advice on proper vaccinations.

5. How much are African safari tours?

The cost of your safari will vary widely depending on the time of year and also which destination you choose. Safaris that utilize a more rugged, DIY approach can be surprisingly affordable. Luxury safari lodges, however, can cost up to thousands per person, per day!

6. Are African safaris good for families?

Safaris offer a rich array of activities for families and are suitable for older children. From hot air balloon rides over the Savannah to see amazing animals in real life, safaris provide unforgettable memories and learning experiences. Keep in mind that some tour companies and lodges do have a minimum age requirement of 6 or 8. A widely accepted rule of thumb is that children should be at least age 8 to be able to appreciate a safari fully.

7. Are African safaris good for solo travelers?

Safaris offer an incredible getaway for solo travelers. Watch for resorts and lodges that waive the supplemental fee that often accompanies solo travel. If you hope to achieve solitude, you can book private drives and activities. If you are hoping to meet new friends, you are sure to meet other travelers at your lodge as well, so you won’t be short of people to share the adventure!

8. How do I pay for things while on an African safari?

The odds are that while you are on a safari, you will visit local villages and towns where you will find a vast array of locally made crafts and goods you will want to purchase. It is preferable to pay for these goods in cash, ideally in the local currency. ATMs are available at some resorts but do your research ahead of time to not only get the best exchange rate but to avoid the awkward situation of having to count out unfamiliar money on the fly when you arrive.

9. What are the African safari big 5?

What is called the “big five” while going on a safari in Africa refers to the most wished for sightings, specifically: lions, buffalos, leopards, elephants, and rhinos.

Asher Fergusson

Safari gift guide for men

Expedition-tested for toughness, get gear he will use and enjoy on every adventure with our men's gift guide. Find great gifts for the explorer, outdoorsman, and traveller in your life with our range of clothing, luggage, and accessories.

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Safari Shoes & Boots Read our Safari Shoes & Boots Advice Guide

• If you are going on a classic game drive type of safari, then pack comfortable women's safari shoes to wear on game drive but which are able to double as good walking shoes for a walk in the bush - an activity we highly recommend. Note that if you do not have walking shoes with you on game drive then your guide may decide against a quick impromptu walk in the bush
• Also take a pair of women's safari shoes to wear around the camp. These may be the same pair as your select for the above, but it may also be a pair of cooler sandals, pumps, or similar.
• For full-on walking safaris make sure you take women's safari shoes which are made for longer hikes - and ensure that you walk them in properly before you go on safari. You may prefer low rise canvas trail shoes or leather higher rise boots - the preference is purely personal.
• If you are going on a walking safari in sandy areas (check with the walking safari company you have booked with) then we suggest that you pack higher rise boots with a built in tongue - such as our Rufiji™ APU Safari Combat Boots - as this will minimise the amount of sand which goes into the shoe which will cause discomfort.
• We would still take a a pair of cooler women's shoes or sandals for before and after walks when around the camp.
• Safari tip: always check your shoes for small snakes, scorpions, spiders and insects before putting them on.

Rufiji™ Explorer Safari Veldskoen Shoes in Ruaha Rust

Rufiji™ explorer safari veldskoen shoes in kalahari khaki, rufiji™ apu combat safari boots in wildebeest brown, safari backpacks, satchels & small bags read our safari backpacks, satchels & small bags advice guide.

• You will need a smaller safari bag to take with you on all safari activities - whether a few hours or a few days - including game drive safaris, walking safaris, horse riding safaris, mountain biking safaris, boating safaris, fishing safaris, canoeing safaris, and mekoro (dugout) safaris.
• Into this smaller safari bag will go any number of safari essentials such as sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, binoculars, waterproof jacket (assuming you are wearing your warm-layer safari jacket or fleece), a safari beanie, any books you want to take on safari with you, water bottle, perhaps your passport if you prefer to keep it with you - and any other personal effects you want to take with you on safari.
• The nature of your safari will determine which bag - or bags - you decide to take with you on your safari. For example, if you are only planning on going on game drives, then you will be fine to take any safari satchel, safari backpack, safari tote, or over-the-shoulder safari bag as you will just be walking with it from your room to the safari 4x4 and then placing it on the seat next to you. If you also want to do walks from the lodge (recommended), then you would need a safari satchel or safari backpack and, if you are on a proper walking safari, then you would need a safari satchel or safari backpack which you are happy to have over the shoulder or on your back for many kilometres or miles of walking.
• Your choice of smaller safari bag (or bags) could and should also double as your safari carry-on bag for flights to and from Africa. If you prefer a larger carry-on to carry some clothes, then take this bag in addition to your carry-on. Some brands of holdall/duffel luggage - such as the Mara&Meru™ Voyager range - also allow you to zip and lock the ideal safari satchel-backpack combination bag as an end pocket on to your main safari bag, which means that you simply unzip it when you get to your safari to use it as your smaller safari bag. That way you are able to check it into the aircraft hold for your international flight to Africa.

Number of smaller safari bags to pack for your safari: 1 x smaller safari bag per person.

Limited Edition: Mara&Meru™ Full Leather Satchel & Pannier in Brown

Safari sunglasses read our safari sunglasses advice guide.

• Pack high-quality sunglasses for your safari which have very good lenses to avoid any damage to your eyes from the harsh rays of the African sun.
• The majority of safari activities take place early in the morning and late in the afternoon. This means that you may be staring into a rising or setting sun during your safari, which makes packing good safari sunglasses even more important.
• At midday, the light may also be quite harsh depending on which areas you visit and the terrain prevalent in that location. As an example, in areas of Botswana, there are large salt pans and the sand is bright white, which reflects the sun's rays and may be uncomfortable for your eyes.

Number of safari sunglasses to pack for your safari: 1 x pair of high quality sunglasses per person.

Men's Bollé Clint Sunglasses in Matte Black & Blue (Polarized)

Safari binoculars read our safari binoculars advice guide.

• A high-quality pair of safari binoculars is, without doubt, the number one safari accessory. You will use your safari binoculars more than any other safari accessory on your safari.
• Simply put, safari binoculars will add tremendous value to the enjoyment of your safari experience by allowing you to safely and intimately view mammals and birds through the lenses.
• You see greater detail on the mammal, bird, reptile, insect, or vegetation you are viewing by either looking through your binoculars the normal way or by turning them around to magnify unseen, smaller details.
• Safari binoculars also allow you to keep good distance from any bird or animal you are viewing, which gives you a better chance of not impacting on their behaviour by being too close. The net effect is that safari binoculars allow you to view the secret lives of Africa's fauna and flora, rather than only viewing how they react to your presence.
• This then also highlights another important aspect of using safari binoculars: you don't have to get so close to larger mammals and reptiles , which means that you view them from a distance which not only increases your safety on safari, but also the the safety of the animal you are viewing.
• Pack high-quality safari binoculars which have the following features for the best game-viewing on safari: multi-coated lenses for best light transmission on safari; nitrogen-filled lenses to avoid fogging on cold safari mornings; adjustable eyecups for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses; adjustable dioptre to set the binoculars up for your eyes; centre focus wheel to get the best, crisp image (rather than auto-focus binoculars); and always get the highest quality lenses which you can afford. The better the lens, the greater the quality of the image you see and the longer you will be able to use your binoculars.
• Optional but useful binocular features for your safari: field of view - the greater the field of view, the greater the area you will see at any one time while looking through the binoculars, making it easier to find your subject; rubber armour to protect your binoculars from bumps and falls; waterproofing - especially important for travel over the rainy season or for water-based safaris. Note that binoculars do not float, so always keep them around your neck, tied to you or the boat, or use a floating neck strap.
• We recommend 10 x 42 safari binoculars as the safari standard for most safaris. "10x" refers to the magnification of the safari binoculars; "42" refers to the aperture of the lens at the front of the binoculars and is a measure of the diameter of the lens - here it means 42mm.
• The larger the magnification, the closer the subject you are viewing will appear, but the harder it will be to keep the binoculars steady. The larger the aperture, the more light which is harnessed by the binoculars and the brighter the subject appears in your view finder. Larger apertures are useful for forest birding and low-light game-viewing. Given that most predators start hunting at dusk and stop hunting at dawn, a larger aperture may prove particularly useful.
• Always blow off any dust from the lenses of your binoculars before cleaning with a clean cloth or lens cleaning tissue. Dust + cloth = sandpaper which will damage your binocular lenses.
• Two top safari binocular technique tips: 1. Always set up the dioptre for your eyes so that the left and right lenses are set up for your left and right eyes, which will have some variation between the two. There is a video on how to do this on our dedicated safari binocular advice page ; 2. When viewing a subject, many people struggle to find the subject through their safari binoculars. Simply look at the subject and then, without looking away from the subject, bring the binoculars up to your eyes.

Number of safari binoculars to pack for your safari: 1 x pair of high-quality safari binoculars per person.

Swarovski™ EL 10x42 SWAROVISION Binoculars (Green)

Safari beanies & scarves read our safari beanies & scarves advice guide.

• Pack a multi-functional Head&Neck scarf for just about all outdoor adventures, including safari. Head&Neck Scarves keep your neck and head out of the sun when it is hot, and provide an element of warmth too when it starts to get cold. They offer maximum versatility.
• It can and does get cold on safari. See our Womens Safari Jackets and Fleeces page for more information on why this is the case.
• Pack women's garments and accessories for your safari which keep you warm. Women's safari scarves, safari beanies, and safari gloves should be considered a packing essential over the African winter - and may also be required for some mornings on summer safaris too.
• At the very least, we recommend packing a safari beanie on any safari as they are so small and light to carry in your luggage, yet have a big effect on how warm you are should you get cold. Keep your safari beanie in the bag you take on game drives. You may well get some envious stares from others who have not had the foresight to pack a safari beanie.
• Further to the point above, for the African summer, pack a women's safari beanie just in case. For the most part, your women's wide-brimmed safari hat should keep you warm enough, but why take the risk? Please also take note of the altitude of the area in which you are going on safari. The Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, as an example, is over 2000 metres above sea level and most camps are on the rim of the crater and so may have cold temperatures (morning and evenings in particular) and precipitation throughout the year, so we would recommend taking warmer safari accessories just in case.
• Pack safari scarves, safari beanies, and safari gloves in safari colours.

Number of women's safari scarves, safari beanies, and safari gloves to pack for your safari: 1 x women's safari scarf; 1 x women's safari beanie; 1 x women's safari gloves - although you should be fine tucking your hands into your women's safari jacket or fleece to keep them warm.

Thusk™ Zulu Knitted Headband in Winter Sand

Vintage print tubular head&neck scarf in giraffe, vintage print tubular head&neck scarf in zebra, vintage print tubular head&neck scarf in giraffe&zebra, vintage print tubular head&neck scarf in giraffe olive, vintage print tubular head&neck scarf in zebra olive, vintage print tubular head&neck scarf in giraffe&zebra olive, vintage print tubular head&neck scarf in lion, vintage print tubular head&neck scarf in lion olive, vintage print tubular head&neck scarf in elephant bull, vintage print tubular head&neck scarf in buffalo, vintage print tubular head&neck scarf in buffalo olive, thusk™ zulu cable knit beanie in winter sand, thusk™ zulu cable knit beanie in winter sage, thusk™ zulu knitted button-scarf in winter sage, thusk™ zulu knitted bow-scarf in winter sand, thusk™ zulu rib knit beanie in winter sage, thusk™ zulu rib knit beanie in winter sand, safari belts, rufiji™ leather safari belt in wild chestnut, rufiji™ leather safari belt in batoka brown, safari jewellery, mara&meru™ black rhino silver cuff-links, safari toiletry bags for travel read our safari toiletry bags for travel advice guide.

• Most safari luggage does not have a built in area for a safari washbag - mind you, not many bags do - and so you should keep your toiletries separate to your clothes by using a safari washbag.
• If you prefer to travel with your own soap, then please select one of our washbags which comes with a wooden soap box so that you don't get soap on your toothbrush.

Number of safari washbags to pack for your safari: 1 x safari washbag per person.

Mara&Meru™ Leather Selous Travel Toiletry Bag in Brown

Safari pet feeders, woof-meow portable dog cat pet bowl bag (large) in safari tan, woof-meow portable dog cat pet bowl bag (small) in safari tan, safari hats read our safari hats advice guide.

The advice below is a summary . If you are looking for more information & expert advice then please click here for our full safari hat advice guide .

• For the best protection from the strength of the midday sun in Africa - for your neck and face - pack a wide-brimmed women's safari hat.
• With mean high temperatures reaching mid-20 to mid-30 degrees Celsius on most safaris and with safari areas in Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, and Zambia high above sea level, the effects of the sun will be pronounced and the risk of being burnt by the sun will be high. A wide-brimmed women's safari hat is literally your first line of defence against sunburn.
• Wide-brimmed women's safari hats also provide shelter when it rains. We find that a wide-brimmed safari hat definitely makes it more comfortable when you are caught out on a walk or game drive by a sudden thunderstorm or tropical shower, as at least your face remains dry and fewer drops go into your eyes.
• Colour is key when choosing a women's safari hat - with neutral shades such as khaki, green, or brown the best. Your safari hat will often be the most conspicuous part of you while viewing wildlife on a walking safari.
• Pack a women's safari hat which suits your safari style. Fortunately, there are more styles available for women today which range from leather hats to classically-styled indie and panama-shaped hats.
• Modern wide-brimmed women's safari hats are also conveniently packable and are easy manipulate back into shape. A note though: not all hats are packable and should be carried with your carry-on luggage - and, even when a hat is packable, never crush your safari hat under a hard object - such as shoes or binoculars - when packing.

Number of wide-brimmed women's safari hats to pack for your safari: 1 x wide-brimmed safari hat per person. *Pack a warm and cosy safari beanie for cold mornings and the African winter too.

Men's Panama Safari Hat (Adjustable) in Tawny

Safari holdalls & duffle bags read our safari holdalls & duffle bags advice guide.

• For your main large safari duffel or safari holdall, choose safari luggage which is soft and squashable and which has no frame. This is especially true for safari travel to Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Mozambique, Malawi, Tanzania, and Kenya and the reason for this is rather a practical one. The majority of safari lodges and camps within these countries are accessible only by light aircraft. As a result, in order for your pilot to fit your luggage into the small, cramped hold, your luggage must not have hard sides, nor rigid frames or structure, and should rather be soft-sided so that the pilot is able to fit (squash) your bag into the plane. The same is true for some overland and expedition-style safaris where there will be limited space for luggage in the safari 4x4.
• Please check with the safari company you have booked with about luggage limitations for the internal flights on your safari, as the requirements may vary from safari to safari. Where luggage weight limitations are specified please note that - as the maximum take-off weight in any aircraft has to be strictly adhered to by pilots to maximise your safety on each flight - you may find that your pilot will not be able to take any luggage over the maximum allowed weight per passenger. In this instance, you may have to pay for your luggage to be flown separately.

Number of large, soft-sided safari bags to pack for your safari: 1 x large safari duffel or holdall bag per person.

Mara&Meru™ Safari Voyager III Duffle Bag in Safari Tan

Safari torches (flashlights) read our safari torches (flashlights) advice guide.

• Your safari torch should be used in the evenings as you walk around the safari camp to shine on the ground in front of you to avoid standing on any snakes (and other reptiles), spiders, scorpions, or insects which may bite or sting you. This is especially important when wearing open sandals or shoes around the camp area.
• Use your safari torch to shine in the bush around you as you walk around the camp at night to spot and avoid wildlife which may have wandered into the camp in the evenings. Please note that this is important as many camps are unfenced - and, even for those with fences, some mammals are able to jump over fences. For unfenced camps, should you spot any of the predators (lion, leopard, hyena, and cheetah) or any of the bigger herbivores (elephant, rhino, buffalo), take care to avoid them as as they are all potentially dangerous. Very important tip: do not shine into the eyes of any of the bigger herbivores listed above, with particular attention paid to not shining into the eyes of elephant.
• The safety aspect of safari flashlights aside, safari torches are very useful for trying to view nocturnal wildlife from the safety and comfort of your room or from the safari lodge. It is also a great way to show others the constellations in the night sky and to shine in your tent or room should the camp you are staying in have limited power for lights late into the night or on more basic walking and adventure safaris.
• For safaris which are not lodge or camp based - or where amenities are limited and you have to use a torch to light your room, look for your clothes, and check for scorpions in your shoes - then packing a small battery-powered safari lamp which offers more diffuse and less direct lighting is a great idea. These types of lamps or lanterns are also great for reading a book at night where a torch would be too bright on a white page.

Number of safari torches to pack: 1 x powerful, compact safari torch per person; 1 x small battery-powered lantern or lamp per person for safaris where strong lighting is not provided in the room or tent.

X21.2 Ledlenser Safari Torch

P7r core rechargeable ledlenser safari torch, safari watches, suunto™ ambit3 peak safari & explorer watch in sapphire (heart rate monitor).

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Christmas gift guide to Moscow surroundings

Visitors from America and Western Europe might be surprised to discover that Russia celebrates Christmas on January 7th. That’s because the Russian Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar. After the end of the Soviet Union, some Russians have begun celebrating Christmas on December 25 in accordance with the Gregorian calendar. But many Russians still observe the tradition of fasting on January 6th, breaking the fast with a large feast on Christmas Eve after the first star has appeared in the sky.

During the Soviet era, Christmas and religious traditions were banned in Russia. Santa Claus was replaced by Ded Moroz, or, Grandfather Frost, an old man with a long white beard who would bring gifts to children on New Year’s instead of Christmas. According to Russian tradition, Ded Moroz is accompanied by his granddaughter, Snegurochka, the Snowmaiden, who helps him on his journey to give presents to children.

Although the tradition of having a Christmas tree, known as a yolka in Russian, was also banned during Soviet times, Russians got around this by having New Year’s trees from which they hung homemade decorations. Today, the restrictions of the Soviet Union have faded into history, and during the Christmas season visitors to Russia can even purchase Christmas ornaments in the shape of matryoshka dolls, or religious icons that depict nativity scenes.

Heading counterclockwise around the Golden Ring this holiday season, northeast of Moscow, your first stop will most likely be the city of Vladimir, home to some of Russia’s most striking churches and cathedrals. The Vladimir region is known for its fine crystal. Stop by the Crystal, Lacquer Miniatures, and Embroidery Museum ( 2 Bolshaya Moskovskaya ) for an overview of traditional crafts before visiting the gift shop in the museum to browse the crystal selection. Vladimir Chic ( 2 Dvoryanskaya ) also sells local glass and crystal work.

Typical souvenirs are also for sale in Vladimir’s old town, especially by the Golden Gate, a triumphal arch and defensive tower that is one of the last-remaining parts of the wall that once surrounded ancient Vladimir and a sure stop on any tour of the Golden Ring.

Just 63 kilometers from Vladimir lays the nearby city of Gus-Khrustalny , the ‘Crystal Goose,’ also home to a rich glass and crystal making tradition. You can visit the glassmaking factory in Gus-Khrustalny and buy gifts ranging from plates and vases to decanters, or visit the outlet store back in Moscow ( 4 Ilyinka ) just east of the Kremlin.

North of Vladimir, you’ll arrive in Suzdal, one of the Golden Ring route’s more tranquil towns. Suzdal boasts a number of small bazaars and stands outside the main tourist sites where visitors can purchase local honey mead, called medovukha, along with traditional crafts, like a pair valenki, or Russian woolen boots, which make an ideal Christmas gift for friends and family back home. The shopping stands outside Suzdal’s Museum of Wooden Architecture and Peasant Life ( Ul. Pushkarskaya ) are also highly recommended. Market Square ( Torgovaya Pl ) houses a number of shops where visitors can search for arts and crafts.

Following the Golden Ring north of Suzdal, many tours will stop in the city of Kostroma, a former trading outpost on the immense Volga River. One of the city’s highlights is the Museum of Linen and Birchbark ( 38 Tereshkova ), where visitors can view exhibits on traditional Russian crafts woven from flax and bark. A gift shop in the basement sells tablecloths, napkins, baskets, linen dolls, and traditional clothing typical of the region.

South from Kostroma, stop in the city of Rostov-Veliky for enamel jewelry, a craft which allows artists to produce small paintings on metal that are then fired to produce a thin glaze over the image. Rostov became famous for its tradition of enamel work. Today, visitors can purchase rings, earrings, bracelets, brooches, and jewelry boxes in the gift shop of the Rostov Enamel factory ( 3 Borisoglebskoye Highway ).

While you’re in Rostov, visit the House of Crafts ( 16 Vtoraya Tolstovskaya Naberezhnaya ) for local pottery and the Souvenirs shop ( 5 Ul. Kamennyi Most ) for ushanka hats—Russian fur caps with earflaps—paintings, and samovars for tea lovers.

The last two stops on a tour of the Golden Ring are the cities of Pereslavl-Zalesskiy and Sergiev Posad. Pereslavl is most famous for its embroidery work, available at the Art Salon ( 12 Ul. Sovetskaya ) along with souvenirs made of wood and stone. Nearby Sergiev Posad is considered the place where Russia’s matryoshka dolls were first invented, and was the chief production center of the dolls before Soviet times. Visit the city’s Toy Museum ( 123 Pr. Krasny Armii ) to get a better sense of the birthplace of one of Russia’s most recognizable toys, then head over to the market alongside the Trinity Monastery of St. Sergius—one of the city’s most important sites—to load up on matryoshka dolls, painted eggs, and icons before going home.

If you’ll be in the Golden Ring during New Years, the city of Vladimir hosts an impressive Christmas fair, with an iceskating rink and performances by local artists, in the main square ( Sobornaya Pl ). In most other Golden Ring cities you’ll find similar events in the center square as Christmas nears.

Most shops and markets in the Golden Ring are open year round. If you’re coming to Russia for a short period of time, whether in winter or summer, consider a trip to this stunning part of the country, and bring an extra bag if you plan to go shopping for Christmas gifts.

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" DIR: West; bigger nice evening sun but louder due to main street DIR:East; Quiter, very bright in the morning if sun rises "

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APELSIN HOTEL - Reviews (Elektrostal, Russia)

fantastic journey song coolio