We’re always delighted when our clients express a desire to give back during their safari. Whether it’s school supplies, football jerseys, or other thoughtful donations, these gifts are always warmly welcomed—especially by the children you’ll meet along the way. Below, we’ve outlined some ideal gift ideas and important things to keep in mind when bringing items for local communities.

What to Bring on Your Safari

School Supplies

Basic educational tools are always in high demand. Consider packing items like pencils, erasers, sharpeners, rulers, chalk, solar calculators, and age-appropriate English storybooks. English–Swahili dictionaries and world maps also make excellent additions to any classroom.

Health and First Aid Items

Essential hygiene and medical supplies are greatly appreciated. These can include bandages, plasters, antibiotic ointment, toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, soap, hand sanitiser, and sanitary pads for girls and women.

Clothing

New or gently worn children’s clothing is always useful. Football jerseys are especially popular—if you bring a few along, you might spot your favourite team being proudly worn in a local village! Jerseys from big English clubs tend to be a hit.

What to Consider Before Gifting

While the intention behind every gift is generous, it’s important to consider its impact. Items like sweets are best avoided, as many children don’t have access to dental care. Balloons, though festive, can be dangerous—they pose a choking risk and are harmful to wildlife if not properly disposed of.

Toys can bring joy, especially if they’re communal (like footballs). However, handing out individual toys on the spot can create tension—once one child receives something, others will soon appear, and not everyone may be lucky. In such cases, the biggest or boldest child often ends up with the toy. If you’d like to give toys, a good approach is to pass them discreetly to a teacher or community leader, who can distribute them fairly, perhaps as rewards for achievements or special occasions.

If you’re ever unsure whether a gift is appropriate, don’t hesitate to ask us—we’re happy to advise. Many of our partners also support Pack for a Purpose, which offers helpful, curated lists of items most needed in various communities.

Thoughtful Gifts for Safari-Loving Friends

If you’re looking for a meaningful gift for someone who loves Africa, consider a donation in their name. For example, you can foster an orphaned elephant through the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, or support Project Playground, a South African non-profit helping to empower children through education and play. Some organisations even offer beautiful items like bracelets or cufflinks that directly support these causes—a perfect gift that gives back.