The best safari clothing colours are therefore shades of khaki, greens, and browns as these are the colours most prevalent in the wilds, wilderness, and back-country of Africa.

On a 2026 safari, the "real" dress code is all about layers and neutral tones. You should wear lightweight, breathable fabrics in khaki, beige, olive, or brown to blend into the bush and avoid attracting biting tsetse flies, which are drawn to dark blue and black. Avoid white, as it gets dusty instantly, and bright colors like red or yellow, which can startle wildlife. Because game drives start at sunrise when it’s freezing and end in the heat of the day, you need a "base layer" of a moisture-wicking T-shirt, a long-sleeved linen or cotton shirt to protect against the sun and bugs, and a warm fleece or down jacket for the morning. Zip-off cargo pants are highly practical, allowing you to switch to shorts as it warms up. Footwear should be closed-toe, such as sturdy sneakers or light hiking boots; you don't need heavy mountaineering boots unless you're doing a walking safari. Finally, a wide-brimmed hat with a chin strap is essential to keep the sun off your face during bumpy drives in open-top vehicles.