WORDS by RALPH BOUSFIELD | IMAGES SUPPLIED by UNCHARTED AFRICA | DESIGN by RICHARD MYBURGH
Born into a family that’s been guiding safaris for generations, Ralph went on his first safari at the age of three. Today a renowned guide himself, he owns and operates four luxury safari camps and co-owns Hickman and Bousfield safari outfitters with Caroline Hickman (whose chic safari wardrobe was the pioneering feature for this series.) When it comes to safari must-haves, this stylish couple can do no wrong!
Find out which 6 items Ralph has tried, tested and won’t let go of:
Similar to what my great grandfather wore, but even broader brim. You almost can’t go too big to shield from the Kalahari sun.
2. Magic Snakestone
I wear this in a leather pouch around my neck. It allegedly cures snake bites and scorpion stings; I have used it a number of times and it seems to work. It was given to my grandfather by the Catholic white fathers in (then) Tanganyika, passed down to my father, and then on to me. Nobody really knows what it is made from, supposedly the bone of a saint…
Almost impossible to find nowadays. Growing up, our housekeeper made them for us, until I met Caro! Why they work? Loose enough for air to circulate, yet if really well cut they still look tailored. Four big pockets to keep all my essential kit, as well as bits and pieces I pick up on safari. My pockets need to be big: four big ones instead of these new multi-pocketed vests where I can never find what I am looking for.
Heavy duty. I get mine from RM Williams, full protection at all times, don’t snag on thorns, don’t need to hesitate at any time in the bush.
5. Bousfield Boots by Penelope Chilvers
Our great friend Penelope Chilvers quizzed me on safari about what would constitute the perfect safari boot. These beauties are the result. Tough enough to wear on safari and smart enough to polish up for a night out in London. Rubber soles thick enough to protect from our Kalahari thorns, beautiful leather that ages like a dream.
6. Binos
Leica binoculars are a fixture around my neck.
To view more of the Hickman & Bousfield range, visit: www.hickmanandbousfield.com
