For those used to cosmopolitan environments, a safari might offer a reprieve from the eternal question of what to wear – after all, the big five have little interest in what designers you’ve slipped on.
Unlike in cities, where a glance of someone's outfit says everything in a fleeting moment, safaris require a certain level of anonymity. Back home, clothes are used to stand out; amidst safari planes, they’re used for the opposite. Dress with the same panache as you would usually and it could very well damage your chances of seeing the wildlife you came for.
Still, the outfits you pick for a safari excursion carry importance; these are the looks that’ll feature in photo albums and social media carousels, ready for reminiscing when you’re in need of some wanderlust. And while they needn’t make an impression on the animals, they don’t have to swerve too far from your natural tastes, whether you’re in the Serengeti or the Sabi Sand.
What to wear on safari
Base layers, raincoats, and thermals are of course essential for the chill of early mornings and evenings on safari, and should be considered non-negotiable. So pack those, but think of this as your chic guide to maintaining a sense of style out on the road – or, more aptly, along the dust-laden tracks.
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Cotton poplin midi dress, Alaïa
Sometimes, it's the simplest looks that are the most memorable, and that's the case for this Alaia dress. The v-neckline leads to a sculpted waist and then balloons into an A-line skirt, showing that form and fit can be as impactful as a bold prints. It’s the kind of piece you can slip on without a second thought – perfect for days when your attention should be on the landscape around you.
Price
$3,690
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Cove scarf-detailed cotton-poplin shirt, Ossou
Neutrals and earth tones tend to dominate safari suitcases, but Ossou’s butter yellow shirt is a prime way of adding in some color. It’s made of cotton poplin and shaped to fit loosely – ideal for scorching temperatures. It's the playful collar detail makes a statement; swap between styling it in the front and back for variety.
Price
$595
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Linden tiered frayed linen pants, Khaite
You needn’t worry about protecting the Khaite Linden pants from roughing it. Their frayed tiered hems already give the illusion of being well-worn, and the effects of walking safaris and national park lodgings will only add to the patina. Long, loose-fitting, and made of linen, this style is an elevated upgrade from the usual wide-leg summer trouser.
Price
$1,580
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Appliquéd cotton-canvas bucket hat, Loewe x Paul's Ibiza
This bucket hat, crafted from lightweight cotton-canvas and accented with an embossed logo patch, is perfect for both lounging by the pool and when emarbking on game drives. The adjustable webbing straps can be tied into a bow and draped down your back, keeping it secure when the sun dips or the wind picks up.
Price
$590
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Closerie belted scalloped embroidered cotton-poplin shorts, Bode
Bode never disappoints when it comes to playful design details, and this summer, those quirks show up in the Closerie shorts. Made of cotton, their knee-hitting legs are finished with scalloped trim for added flair, while the buckle waistband provides a cummerbund effect. Prime safari shorts for tailoring enthusiasts, we say.
Price
$650
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Wanderlust lamé crochet tank top, Zimmermann
If you’re wondering whether this crochet top from Zimmermann would be appropriate for a vacation, the clue is in the name. While in keeping with a safari-inspired neutral color palate, this piece strikes the balance of being playful and polished – a prime evening piece for sunset dinners in the plains.
Price
$475
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Quebec linen and silk shorts, Max Mara
Who says desert plains call for compromise? Max Mara’s Quebec shorts, spun from breezy linen and silk, keep you cool while spotting wildlife – and the drawstring waist means you can adjust on the fly, whether you’re climbing dunes or reaching for that perfect sunset shot.
Price
$535
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Belted pleated cotton-blend mini shirt dress, Loewe
Loewe’s shirt dress offers a feminine twist on classic utility. Crafted from a breathable cotton-blend, it features a pleated mini skirt for ease of movement and a D-ring belt with a logo-stamped leather patch – ideal off-duty elegance on dusty trails.
Price
$2,500
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Gigi floral-print satin-twill headscarf, Eugenia Kim
Beyond its chic floral print, this silk scarf provides a stylish way to shield both your hair and scalp from harsh sun – a lightweight, breathable layer that keeps you protected while exploring the open plains. When not in use, tie it onto your bag – it acts as a versatile fashion accessory.
Price
$225
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Belted cotton-blend poplin midi dress, Brunello Cucinelli
Cut from lightweight cotton-blend poplin, this Brunello Cucinelli dress will keep you comfortable in the midday heat. The gathered, beaded shoulders offer delicate coverage, and the elasticated waist ensures a flattering, flexible fit.
Price
£3,600
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Rufina leather-trimmed suede sandals, Manolo Blahnik
Manolo Blahnik’s sandals offer breathable suede construction and a soft leather finish, making them lightweight to pack and pair with everything from cropped pants to lightweight dresses.
Price
$1,095
How we chose
Each piece featured is independently selected by Elite Traveler’s editors and contributors, who have either been on safari or who are experts in the fashion space. We've selected items based on their quality, design, and style factor.
