Safari Cruise Luggage List
A Safari cruise in the Congo is an opportunity to immerse yourself in an unknown and remote environment. That’s why an exceptional environment goes hand in hand with the right equipment.
Clothing
For the expedition, you’ll need light, breathable clothing first and foremost. Choose long-sleeved, quick-drying shirts and long, quick-drying trousers. Make sure you also take discreet clothes in the colours of nature.
Take a light fleece or jumper for cooler evenings and for morning or river activities. Although the Congo is not renowned for its low temperatures, rain combined with a light breeze will make you want to cover up.
Similarly, rain and showers are commonplace in the Congo, so take a light raincoat to cover up in case of rain.
For the various activities planned, whether during the expeditions or for your moments of relaxation, please remember to take a swimsuit..
After a long day, it’s time to relax. That’s why you’ll need casual clothes and a comfortable pair of shoes to relax on board.
Shoes
On treks and hikes, you will need a pair of walking or sports shoes. Please check that they are sturdy and comfortable enough for walks that may last several hours. They should be closed shoes, ideally lightweight and quick-drying, as we’ll be walking in wet conditions.
It is also advisable to take pairs of high socks to minimize the risk of bites, or to avoid small insects accidentally slipping into your shoes during forest expeditions.
Bags
Soft backpacks are best for trekking through the Congolese forest. Please check that your backpacks are comfortable enough and suitable for trekking in the forest, so that you can carry binoculars and your water bottle.
We also recommend that you take rain covers for your bags or check that they are waterproof in case of heavy rain.
As far as travel bags are concerned, we also recommend soft bags to make them easier to carry and store on board the ship. Make sure that your baggage does not exceed 20kg, as this is the weight limit on domestic flights.
Water bottle or reusable water bottle
For long excursions in the forest, and because you mustn’t neglect hydration in hot, humid areas, we recommend that you always take a water bottle with you. Especially as these are not provided by the cruise. For the cruise, you’ll need reusable containers, which you can fill on board using the ship’s various water fountains.
First-aid kit
If you have everything you need on board in the event of an accident or injury, you can take a small travel kit with you, including antiseptic wipes, bandages, tweezers, plasters, aspirin, anti-diarrhea and anti-malarial medication, etc. Make sure you also take your medical documents with you.
You should also bring your yellow fever vaccination certificates, as well as your polio, measles and covid 19 certificates, all of which are required for gorilla watching.
Sun protection
The Congo is an equatorial country, so the sun shines all year round. You are therefore strongly advised to take something to protect yourself from UV rays. Make sure you take a sun hat, which should be suitable for expeditions, that is to say of a neutral colour and preferably canvas. You must also take sun cream.
Insect repellent
If you’re preparing to visit the wilderness areas of the Congo Basin, remember to bring insect repellent containing DEET, the most effective for wetlands.
Binoculars
To get the most out of your safari experience, we strongly recommend that you bring a pair of binoculars. Remote areas are full of details, and binoculars will allow you to observe animals without frightening them or disturbing them in their natural habitats. A pair of binoculars will also allow you to continue exploring even during the cruise, as you’ll be able to observe the shores and contemplate the richness of the rainforest from the deck of the ship.
Night-vision binoculars are always a plus on a wilderness expedition.
Camera equipment
A Congo Safari cruise is an opportunity to discover the flora and fauna of the Congo Basin. To immortalize these timeless moments, it’s advisable to take a camera with you, in addition to your connected objects, to ensure the best possible photo quality. We recommend a camera with a minimum 200mm lens.
Torch
For the expedition, please bring a torch, preferably a headlamp. Even at night, the exploration continues, providing an opportunity to discover a different type of fauna, or simply to go out on deck to observe the stars without light pollution.
Books or board games
The setting of the cruise promises to be one of disconnection and relaxation, all immersed in the setting of the Congo Basin. During the cruise, you’ll also have time to relax. It’s a good idea to bring along something to keep you entertained, such as books, for your moments of rest during the cruise.
