Gear and gadgets.
For photographers, this one’s a no-brainer. Along with your usual gear and lenses, pack everything in a dustproof or waterproof bag and bring a spare memory card and a fully charged battery—you’ll thank yourself when the lion pride shows up just as your main battery dies (speaking from experience). A lightweight tripod is great for night skies, and a kikoi or scarf works well for shielding your gear from sun and dust.
Binoculars are a safari essential. Guests staying at &Beyond lodges are provided with one pair of complimentary SWAROVSKI OPTIK binoculars per room. If you’re travelling with a fellow birder or know you won’t want to share, it’s worth bringing a second pair. The SWAROVSKI OPTIK VPA (Variable Phone Adapter) isn’t included, but it’s a great tool to bring for turning sightings into smartphone shots.
Most lodges provide torches in the suites, and staff escort guests to and from their rooms at night. Many travellers use their phone torches, but a backup light isn’t necessary.
Universal plug points and USB ports are standard at most lodges, but it’s smart to pack the right adaptor just in case. A USB splitter comes in handy for charging multiple devices, and a small power bank is useful on game drives (some vehicles offer charging ports, but it’s not a given).
Load up your Kindle or bring a good book, along with headphones and playlists for road transfers, poolside downtime, and the occasional “Africa time” delay. Many lodges have Bluetooth speakers in the suites—but in the bush, nature usually provides the best soundtrack.
Unless you’re a dedicated birder, there’s no need to bring a bird book. Most guides carry excellent ID books for birds, mammals and trees, and they’re happy to share. At &Beyond lodges, guests also receive a Guide’s Journal—a beautifully illustrated keepsake for noting wildlife sightings.