preparing for your journey To Mozambique

Regardless of what type of safari you are doing more than likely you will be carrying something:  camera, binoculars, gun, etc.  That will have bearing on what you wear.  Hunting with a camera or a gun can become work very quickly in the heat of Mozambique.  Add that to crawling, climbing, or getting busted in the open sun which requires no movement for many minutes can get you heated quickly.  Coolness of garments, the padding and protection they provide from the elements as well as from straps, and the comfort as to how they fit hung around your neck and shoulders needs to be evaluated for what works best for you.

First concern would be whether to wear a “short” or “long sleeve” shirt.  This is personal, but here are a few thoughts. The sun can bake, so long-sleeve safari shirts with buttons to hold the sleeve up when needed are best to protect from the relentless sun and thorns.  But they need to be light and breathable.  Short-sleeve safari shirts work great, but don't forget sunscreen and expect cuts and scratches.  Shoulder epaulets provide an extra layer of padding and can provide a permanent attachment to hanging tools that you might need. Next is "shorts" vs "long pants."  Shorts of course are cooler, but if you wear them beware of sunburn from sitting outside in the cruiser, and you can again expect scratches and cuts daily. To some this pain is worth the cost of cooling, to some it is not.  Zip-off pants offer a compromise, but generally pocket space becomes limited.

So with that in mind, we recommend 4 sets of roomy rugged safari wear in earth tone colors, a quality leather belt, a comfortable full-brimmed hat to block out sun, great quality boots (we personally recommend Courteney Boots: click here for African Sporting Creations) that are completely broken in, gaiters to put over the top of those boots to keep the nasty little thorns from entering, sweat bands (if appropriate), cotton handkerchiefs, undergarments that do not chafe, high quality socks, and a quality jacket. We discourage using military apparel or camouflage, as this can be misunderstood within local cultures.  Remember, clothes are cleaned and then pressed by charcoal-irons everyday, so there is no need to bring more garments than recommended.

Other “things” to bring are even more personal than clothing; but here are a few more thoughts. First and foremost, Gajogo suggests that you travel as lightly as possible. With that in mind, we recommend a journal to record your adventures, LED headlamps in lieu of large or even small bulky flashlights, light weight soft-sided bags, (that can be “stuffed” into unusual nooks and crannies such as a light airplane), a light weight folded bag within your luggage for use to carry home goodies you purchase during your visit (nylon duffel bags are great).

Other useful things include a “Leatherman” tool, 8-15 inch cable ties for numerous varieties of reasons, soft padded camera and gun cases that completely close during dusty rides in the safari cruiser, extra sim-cards, chargers, and lastly, appropriate personal first aid items such as creams, sunscreen, aspirin, etc, to care for blisters, sore muscles, and wrinkles caused from the excessive smiles you will be wearing most of the day.

Now "unthings." There is also a list of things you do not need to bring: there is no need to bring water purification tablets or kits, a GPS, sleeping bags, pillows, work gloves, canteens, rain gear, water proof boots, hard helmets, or candy for the staff (but some for the Boss is encouraged).  And as a pressure reliever, Gajogo will provide you with a detailed checklist of items to bring once your pre-safari preparation is underway.

And the last thing, a word about packing. If possible, make sure you always keep your camera and valuables in your "carry-on" baggage for airline flights.  Security of checked bags is not as good in Africa as in more sophisticated locales.

Gajogo staff will always carry and have pure bottled water available during all outings.  We can also carry your bags, back packs, or even your rifle if it is your desire.  You will never be in need of food or water, and in fact, some clients complain that we feed them too much.  Maybe it is true, but this isn't boot camp, and we like happy clients.

Mosquitoes are seldom seen, heard, or felt.  But malaria is very prevalent within Gajogoland and it is essential that anti-malaria prophylaxis are taken. Tsetse flies also frequent the area and can be very bothersome in some locations.  Insect repellent containing a significant percentage of DEET is suggested and some clients claim great success with Avon's "Skin So Soft."  Anti-itch creams and lotions may be helpful if you react harshly to insect bites.

Although not officially required by the US Center for Disease Control (CDC), Yellow Fever vaccinations may be expected from time to time by local Customs Officials.  For that reason we ask everyone to consider getting the vaccination as a preventive from any debate over its need.  Other vaccinations may also be suggested by CDC.  Link for latest information from the CDC here.

Whether you are on a hunting or photo safari certain species may require a lot of walking. Consult your health provider for guidance as to your personal health requirements or restrictions.  Be sure to wear-in your clothing and boots, and while preparing carry a stick, camera bag, or back pack, with the equivalent bulk and weight expected on safari. Gajogo Safarilands does amend its hunting style to meet client needs and has accommodations to meet almost any special requirement.