Southern Africa's seasons are opposite those in North America and Europe. Summer falls between November and March; winter is May through August. Most of Southern Africa enjoys a pleasant, warm climate year-round. Pack lightweight clothing for the summer; a jacket or coat may be needed in winter, particularly for the evenings. 

To check weather forecasts, climatic information, satellite photos and times of tides, check out this weather watch. It offers Southern African seasonal outlooks and national forecasts by region.

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Acquire everything you need for overseas travel and adventure: adapters, travel clothing and gear, items to ensure comfort and security, luggage, and much more!

Be sure to pack the right camera and photo equipment:

Digital Cameras Film Cameras Camcorders Printers & Scanners Binoculars & Scopes Frames & Albums Photography Books Accessories Memory Cards Film Batteries & Chargers Cases & Bags Lenses & Filters Tripods Software

The most practical items to pack for SAFARI are: 

Clothing:
	Neutral colors are more suitable for safari, white is not practical. It is best to pack hardy, durable clothing
	T-shirts; Shorts or a light skirt
	Jeans or safari trousers for evenings and cooler days
	Blouses with long sleeves (even in summer; they will protect you from the sun and from mosquitoes)
	Bring an elegantly casual outfit for dinner at the smarter hotels.
	Swimsuit, as most hotels/lodges have swimming pools
	Comfortable walking shoes
Layers:
	Fleece or sweater and a windbreaker for game drives (necessary, even in summer)
	Light, compact raincoat is a good idea for the summer
	Layers are most practical for the fluctuating day and night temperatures: warm-up suit/sweats— good for sleeping in during winter months
General Items:
	Sun block, sunglasses, hat, insect repellent - essentials!
	Binoculars and a camera are a must
	Towel, flashlight and sleeping bag for camping safaris (sleeping bags can be hired from most safari operators)
Important:
	Packing space is limited on all modes of safari transport so you will need to restrict your baggage to 12-15kg (preferably packed in a soft bag) plus a reasonable amount of camera equipment.

The most practical items to pack for BIRD WATCHING are: 

Clothing Items:
	Since most birding trips start in the early morning with a chill, layering is essential for comfort
	Long-sleeved shirts and trousers to guard against mosquitoes
	Hat for protection against the sun
	Rubber boots for marsh lands and crossing small streams
	Rain gear and umbrella (helpful when you're trying to use cameras and binoculars in the rain)
General Items:
	Binoculars; camera & film; telescope
	Flashlight & spare batteries (for night walks)
	Birding checklists
	Insect repellant
	Sunscreen, lip protection; sunglasses
	Drinking water

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The most practical items to pack for BIKING are: 

The Bike:
	If you're going to stick to paved, smooth surfaces, go with a road bike...you'll travel faster; if you plan on going off-road for any distance, consider a mountain or hybrid bike depending on how rugged you expect the terrain to be
Clothing:
	Shorts—cycling shorts have a pad in the crotch that prevents chafing and offers some extra padding; baggy versions of the "skintight Lycra" are available
	Jersey—a shirt or jersey that wicks moisture away from the skin is the best
	Shoes—almost any sneaker will work with flat pedals or pedals with a toe cage; clipless pedals require specially made shoes that pop into the pedal like ski boots into a binding
	Mountain-biking shoes—allow you to walk or hike over rough surfaces; sneakers or low-rise hiking boots work too
Layers:
	Long-Sleeved Jersey
	Windbreaker
	Ear Band—if it's cold, you may want or slip an ear band or hat under your helmet for warmth
General Items:
	Helmet
	Glasses—eye protection is essential to protect your eyes from branches, debris and bugs
	Water & food—many bikers use backpack water carriers because they hold more than water bottles and they're easier to drink from while riding; you might want to pack foods that are high in energy-replacing carbohydrates
	Sunscreen—waterproof sunscreen won't run off as you sweat
Important:
	Flat Kit—a good kit should include a spare inner tube, a hand pump, tire levers and a patch kit
	First-aid Kit—pack along a few Band-Aids and alcohol swipes
	Multi-tools—something always seems to work its way loose off-road, or need a slight adjustment...see what types of screws and bolts your bike has