safari kenia packliste

Detailed Kenya Safari Packing List (+ Free NO BS PDF)

An African Safari is one of those things that is in many peoples bucket list. Kenya, being one of the most popular safari destinations, may be the destination you have settled on for your African safari and you may be asking yourself what you should take with you.

Having lived in Kenya all my life and visited all of the most popular national parks in Kenya, I thought it would be helpful to write a comprehensive Kenya Safari Packing list that has packing suggestions broken down by month. This guide will help you plan what you should carry when coming to Kenya for your Safari.

In addition to this, I have also prepared a free printable packing list in a PDF with all of the items I have indicated below. Download it for FREE below

This post is long so here is a summary to help you jump to the parts of the article that interest you:

Clothing General Clothes for Adults Beachwear Shoes Clothing Tips Gadgets Gadget Tips Accessories & Miscellaneous items Toiletries Packing Suggestions Month By Month Plastic Bags are Banned

General Clothes for Adults

Pants (4 pieces ).

Your best option when choosing trousers for your Kenya Safari is either brown, green or grey khaki pants. The reason why these colors are the best because they are neutral and do not attract animals attention.

Avoid black, and blue trousers. They attract tsetse flies and also can easily draw the attention of the wild animals you will be viewing.

You can reduce your load if find pants whose legs can be unzipped into a short.

Shorts (3 pieces)

You are likely to visit the beach as you conclude your safari and Mombasa is unbearably hot and humid for most of the year. Shorts will help you stay cool there. Please read about some of the places that it’s inappropriate to wear shorts in Kenya in this article I wrote .

Underwear (Enough for the length of your Stay)

Kenyan laundry services do not wash underwear. It’s actually a cultural taboo to wash someone else’s undergarments. You will either have to wash it yourself or have enough to last you the entirety of your safari in Kenya.

Your underwear needs to be light and be able to breathe in hot and humid environments. They also need to absorb sweat well since you will be in the sun and hot environments for most of your day.

Sports Bras: Kenyan roads can get really bumpy and these will help you stay comfortable. All the roads on Kenyan Game parks are dirt roads and many get potholes in the rainy season.

Polo Shirts/ Tshirts (8 Pieces)

These need to be light and sweat absorbent due to the heat. You will also need to avoid choosing bright shouting colors like red, blue and black and white. Go for neutral colors that blend in with the environment you will be in. Those are Forest green, Gray, brown, etc.

Avoid wearing camouflage or military fatigue-like clothing. It might get you in trouble with the authorities. African governments have a phobia for anything that looks military being worn by the general public. To avoid getting harassed by the Kenyan Police, stay clear of any camo clothes

Socks (7 Pairs)

Get a good comfortable pair that you would wear during the summer. They need to breathe and absorb sweat well.

Fleece Jacket (1 Piece)

This will come in handy in the cold evenings and early mornings. With morning and night temperatures reaching in the 59°F  range, you will need to keep warm for those few hours. The heat picks up quickly so make sure the jacket is light enough to carry around when you have removed it.

Instead of a jacket, the ladies can carry a shawl. It will be useful on many other occasions other than the cold mornings so this is the better option for the ladies.

Long Sleeve shirt/ blouse

This will be useful in the evenings when you are outside. Mosquito bites are really itchy and you can protect your arms by putting on a long sleeve shirt in the evenings.

Kenyans are generally more liberal than those of some of our neighbors like Tanzania but we still hold very conservative views towards dressing. You can wear your regular swimsuit to the beach but keep in mind that topless swimming is not allowed in any of the beaches in Kenya. So in choosing your beachwear, you will want to carry the following:

• Your swimsuit
• Swimwear coverup
• Flipflops that you’re ok with getting wet

Comfortable shoes (not Boots) plus Sandals (one pair of each)

Don’t carry boots.

You will spend a lot of time seated. Either in the car or at the hotel. You will occasionally be standing in your car to view the animals but the rest of the time will be spent on your seat. Therefore, when choosing your footwear, you will need to pick a comfortable flat pair of shoes.

Avoid carrying hiking boots unless you are going to be doing some outdoor adventure stuff like hiking in Hells Gate or climbing up Kilimanjaro . Its overkill and you will be really uncomfortable if this is the only pair of shoes you carried.

Pick a sturdy pair

One thing you will need to pay attention to is how well built your shoe is. When out on safari, the nearest place you can buy a quality pair of shoes if the ones you were wearing get torn may be several hundred miles away. You need to have a shoe that will be strong enough to endure several hard trippings on a rock .

Pair of sandals or flipflops

These will come in handy if your hotel or camp doesn’t provide any. You will need them when going to shower. Some camps have showers that separate from where you will be sleeping and it would not be advisable to go there barefoot.

Waterproof raincoat or umbrella

This can be a light jacket to cover you up on the off chance you might be caught in the rain. You might have to walk from your car to the hotel building with the rain pouring hard and you will want to keep yourself and your equipment dry.

Clothing Tips

Safari clothes.

• Choose neutral colors that blend in with the bush environment. This will allow you to come up close to the wild animals without spooking them.
• Wear full-length pants on a safari drive. This will help you keep mosquitoes and other bugs from biting your legs when out on a game drive.
• Temperatures change within minutes in the morning and evenings. Layer up your clothes to keep warm in the morning but stay cool when it gets hot.

Avoid revealing clothing

Kenyans are pretty liberal when it comes to dressing. However, these are usually city dwellers and you will find that the people in the villages are more conservative with what they wear. I would advise you to pack clothes that are not very revealing when going for your safari. It would also be a good idea for the ladies to pack one set of clothes that cover up your knees, shoulders, and torso for when you will be out and about in busy markets and the streets.

Laundry services in Kenya

• Leave an allowance: Most laundry in Kenya is sun-dried and so you need to have an allowance of extra clothes just in case the load you gave takes time to dry. This can happen in the colder months of June and July.
• Kenyan Laundry doesn’t wash underwear: Most of the hotel staff dealing with laundry are male and it’s considered a cultural taboo for a man to wash ladies undergarments.  For this reason, almost all the hotels you will visit in Kenya do not wash undergarments.

Camera with Zoom Lens

Your camera needs to zoom in to animals that may be at a distance. Some animals are either shy or rare you may not be able to get a good shot if you have the regular kit lens. Shop around for a good lens for the safari.

Extra Memory cards

If you are anything like me, you get trigger happy with your camera when you see something you like. To make sure that you don’t run out of memory space, have a number of extra memory cards for your camera. Expect to take about 1000 photos per day if you are very trigger happy and this can add up if you are shooting at high resolutions.

If you decide to carry your cellphone with you, make sure it’s unlocked for international use. When you arrive in Kenya, you can get a Kenyan sim card and get connected.

The challenge with carrying your phone with you is that you will have signal issues when out in the bush and the phone might not serve its purpose.

This is one of the things that can easily get forgotten if you are carrying a large number of devices. One trick that I saw is plugging in all your chargers into an extension cable and packing the extension cable into your luggage. When charging your devices, you will just need to plug in that one extension cable and it will charge all your devices.

Power Adapter

Kenya uses 220-240 Volts electricity and this is different from the USA which uses 110V electricity. To ensure that you do not damage your devices, you need to use a power Adapter that converts the power to a voltage that is compatible with your devices.

Extension cable

Useful when you have a number of devices that need charging all together but only one power outlet.

When you have a number of devices, you may need to leave your things for safekeeping at the hotel reception. Having a lockable safety bag will help keep your things safe.

Gadget Tips

Carry old devices except camera.

To reduce the risk of losing a  new device that you paid heftily for, carry an older phone and tablet. You will feel less afraid of losing your gadgets and

The phone needs to be unlocked

If you intend to use your phone or tablet to make a call or receive messages from home, you need to ensure that your phone is unlocked to be used internationally.

Accessories & Miscellaneous items

Bright sunny days can be a bit too much on your eyes and a good pair of sunglasses come in handy then. Sunglasses will especially be useful on the beach.

Notebook and pen

When going through immigration, you will need to write a number of things down and having your pen beats asking a fellow traveler for one. You may also occasionally need to write something like directions down and the notebook will help here.

Wide-brimmed Hat

You will, on several occasions, be out in the sun and there is no greater reprieve than getting your hat out. It will get really hot at midday and your hat will prove invaluable at that time.

Beanbag Cushion

As I mentioned earlier, the roads in the National Parks are not paved and are very bumpy. To get that crisp shot and reduce blurry photos, a beanbag will be of great use in keeping your camera steady.

First Aid Kit

You hope for the best but plan for the worst. Have a small first aid kit that has all the items that can help you in case of an incident when you’re out on safari.

Try to find a flashlight that you can strap on your head. You will find it useful when walking in the dark as you often will especially if you are in a camp that does not have indoor plumbing within your tent.

Portable Powerbank

When out on Safari, You will spend many hours away from a charging station and your power bank will be useful when you’re trying to keep that gadget running and you don’t have an immediate source of electricity.

Portable Packs Wet Wipes (1 for every day)

Sanitation is, at times is not taken as seriously as it should in some places in Kenya. You will need to take charge of your own hygiene by carrying a pack of kleenex that you will use whenever you are about to eat anything and after you leave a toilet.

You will find that some places do not have access to running water and this makes the hygiene issue much bigger.

You will be out in the sun a lot and you need to use a good sunscreen to keep you from getting sunburnt. I found the following article by WebMD on how to find a good brand of sunscreen. You might want to read it before making your purchase.

Bug Repellent

Africa has a lot of bugs. Some look scary and others are so small you might fail to notice them. The one insect you need to worry about is the Mosquito since it can give you malaria. Their bite is also really itchy and can a rash when scratched for long. Use bug repellent on your hands, feet and other exposed parts of your body when going outside at night and on your game drives.

Your full Prescription

If you are on any prescription medicine, make sure you carry enough to last you the entirety of your stay and a few additional days in case you have delays when going back home. I would also advisable for you to carry a written prescription from your doctor so that you can buy your medicine here in Kenya if you run out.

Toothbrush & toothpaste

Your hotel will not be providing these and you might not find your favorite brand if you plan on buying these over here. In addition to this, you might be several hours away from the nearest convenient shop when you are out on safari. For this reason, you will want to come prepared with everything you will need for the entirety of your stay.

Soap, Shampoo & conditioner

Your hotel will provide you with this but the brand and quality of soap may not be what you are used to.

Packing Suggestions Month By Month

The packing list I have described above would work for all parts of the year. However, below are suggestions of what you should pack if you are coming on any of the following months:

Kenya Safari Packing List  January

January is sometimes a rainy month. If you will be coming in this month, carry a raincoat and a few sets of warm clothing in addition to the packing list I have described above. The shawl or fleece jacket will be important as well. Especially for the cold evenings. It doesn’t get very cold in the evenings so your fleece need not be very heavy.

Kenya Safari Packing List February

February is usually a dry month with hardly any rainfall in the whole month. The temperatures are usually high during the day and it will get slightly chilly in the evenings but not so so much that you would need a heavy fleece. You can probably survive on just a shirt in the evenings this month.

Kenya Safari Packing List March

The end of March is when the rains start in Kenya. This is the month you need a small portable umbrella and a raincoat. It does not get very cold during the day and the nights are also not very chilly.  You will be ok if you carry a light fleece or shawl for the evenings but you may not need it since even the evenings are not very cold.

Kenya Safari Packing List April

This month is a lot like March in terms of rainfall. However, it starts getting colder in the evenings and this means that your shawl or fleece will be more important in this month. At the same time, mosquito populations are at their peak due to the puddles made by all the rain and the thick bushes where mosquito love to hide. Carry a lot of long-sleeved shirts and pants to keep your hands and feet from being bitten by the mosquitoes. Also, remember to carry your bug spray and ensure you have taken your anti-malarial medication before you come here.

Kenya Safari Packing List May

The month of experiences lower levels of rainfall compared to the previous months but the temperatures are now dropping. Your shawl and fleece will help with this. At the same time, there will be a lot of bugs, especially at night. If you can carry a can of bug spray,  it will help clear them from your room. Sometimes, bugs enter your room if you leave the lights on in the evening and they can be difficult to remove if you don’t have bug spray.

The rainfall will not be high so you may not need to carry your umbrella if it’s too heavy but carry a light raincoat just in case it rains.

Kenya Safari Packing List June

June is the start of the cold season that lasts two months. You will typically need to wear something warm in most parts of the country both in the mornings and at night. The days are not typically sunny but the temperatures normally rise enough for you to be ok without a shawl or jacket.

In the month of June, you want to wear warm clothing in layers that you can take off as it gets warmer.

Kenya Safari Packing List July

July is the coldest month in Kenya. With temperatures going as low as 63 °F, you will need to carry heavier clothing and plan to dress in layers to allow you to shed off some of the clothing if it gets a bit warm.  At the same time, have a fleece jacket or shawl for extra warmth in case it gets colder than you anticipated.

It does not usually rain but you can expect a drizzle that can get you wet if you are in it for a while. An umbrella will help with this.

Kenya Safari Packing List August

The month of August warms up and it gets dryer. Expect a lot of sun and mild to warm temperatures. You will not need to carry warm clothing but you can throw in a fleece jacket or shawl for the evenings and cold mornings that can get a bit chilly.

Kenya Safari Packing List September

September is also not a cold month. Apart from the evenings, and early mornings, you will be ok wearing light clothing. The day may get hot so carry light clothing so that you don’t get uncomfortable in the heat.

Kenya Safari Packing List October

We normally experience the short rainy season starting in the month of October. Carry something to protect you and your equipment from the rain like a light raincoat or small portable umbrella.

The rains are not accompanied by very low temperatures so all you need to keep you warm is your fleece jacket or shawl.

Kenya Safari Packing List November

The short rains end in November and the conditions are similar to those of October.  Have your umbrella handy and your jacket or shawl to keep you warm in the evenings.

Kenya Safari Packing List December

We sometimes experience a few showers and thunderstorms in December so carrying your umbrella may be a good idea.

The nights will be chilly and there will be mosquito so plan to have something warm to cover yourself and pack some long sleeve shirts and pants to reduce the severity of the mosquito bites.

Plastic bags are banned

As a final word for this article, remember that plastic bags are illegal in Kenya and you will not be allowed to bring them with you on your safari. These include plastic zip-lock bags that might use to pack some of your toiletries. Use a different type of packagings like a cloth bag or plastic containers to avoid frustration at the airport.

Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Antony Njoroge

Hi, I'm Antony & I'm from Kenya. I love traveling around Kenya when I get off from work and this website is a great way for me to share my local knowledge and tips that will help you travel well in East Africa. Having lived in East Africa my whole life, I share my personal experiences and knowledge with the goal of helping you optimize your East African Safari and make it an unforgettable expereince.

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The Ultimate Packing List for Kenya

Apr 26, 2021 | Packing Lists

Kenya  is undoubtedly one of the most authentic safari destinations in the world. With spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities, lush mountain ranges and beautiful coastlines, there’s many different activities that you can get up to when visiting Kenya.

The different parts of the country each offer a unique experience and can also wildly vary in climate. Before putting your packing list for Kenya together, you’ll need to know where you’ll be staying and what activities you’ll be getting up to.

Our Kenya packing list will give you everything you need to know for a trip to Kenya.

Packing for the weather in Kenya

One of the most important factors that you must consider before you begin creating your Kenya packing list, is the weather.  Kenya  is home to several climates that will both surprise and delight you.

Figuring out what to wear on safari in Kenya will, therefore, depend on the time of year that you decide to visit this incredible destination. The dry season usually runs from about mid-December to March. The rainy season typically begins in late April and goes through until early August.

That being said, travellers will often be treated to a pleasant tropical climate throughout most of the year. You can expect sunny days and cooler nights, which are perfect for your Kenyan experience.

What to wear on safari in Kenya

We’ve got a few tips for you below, but also make sure to check out our full guide on  what to wear on safari in Southern Africa  for more details.

Layering is crucial

The weather in Kenya can change in a matter of minutes. Adding clothing that can be layered to your Kenya packing list will help you adjust to the fluctuating temperatures. As the Kenyan sun peeks out, you can remove a few layers and put them back on as the evenings begin to cool down.

Hiking shoes

As any smart traveller will tell you, packing light is crucial. Therefore, we suggest adding multipurpose clothing and footwear to your Kenya safari packing list. Adding functional  hiking shoes  to your luggage will serve you well as they can be worn everywhere you go.

Just make sure that they provide you with adequate ankle support, especially given the fact that the terrain can be rather rocky and uneven.

For the ladies, we love these waterproof  Timberland Norwood Mid Boots  that look stylish but are functional at the same time. For the men, these  waterproof all-weather boots  are also a great option.

Don’t forget to wear the shoes a couple of times before you leave for Kenya, to make sure that you break them in properly!

When it comes to figuring out what to pack for Kenya, you will definitely need a  raincoat . This will keep you nice and dry whilst you make your way through the beautiful country.

Kenya has been blessed with incredible sunshine, which is why we suggest investing in a good sun hat or cap. Whether you’re out on a Masai Mara safari or heading to the Kenyan beaches, your hat will be a staple item during your trip.  

We suggest packing a wide-brimmed hat that will give you the most sun protection. Here are a few options:

• This waterproof and breathable  wide brim bucket hat  is a sturdy and durable option, great for game drives, hikes or fishing. 
• This  wide brim hat  offers additional neck coverage, also great for game drives, hikes, or fishing.
• You can also opt for a simple  baseball cap .

While many people see sunglasses as a fun safari accessory, sunglasses are actually an important part of any Kenya packing list. Opting for  UV-ray protective sunglasses  will keep you from squinting your way through the day and keep your eyes protected.

Adding a  cross bag  to your Kenya packing list will help you keep all of your belongings close to you while travelling. They’re great to take with you on safari drives or while walking through the city streets.

Swimming is probably not the first thing that springs to mind when you think about what to pack for Kenya. However, whether you’re lounging by the pool at your lodge, taking a splash in one of the local waterfalls or relaxing on the beach,  swimwear  is essential.

Packing list for Kenya: Toiletries

Wet wipes and hand sanitizer.

When it comes to figuring out what to pack for Kenya you can’t forget about adding  wet wipes  and sanitizers to your list. 

Major cities will definitely sell them but when it comes to more remote parts of the country, you will most likely experience a shortage of stores that supply them. Adding wet wipes and  sanitizer  to your luggage will help keep you fresh and clean while out in the bush.

When you are thinking of what to wear on safari in Kenya, make sure that it’s not just clothing that you’re wearing. You need to be adequately lathered in sunscreen too. Opt for a  high SPF waterproof sunscreen  that will protect your skin.

Bug and insect repellent

Kenya is home to exceptional wildlife … and bug life too. The country has been known for its plethora of insects including malaria-causing mosquitoes and tsetse flies. Adding bug and mosquito  repellent creams and sprays  will help keep the bugs at bay!

Packing list for Kenya: Medication

Your Kenya packing list is incomplete if you do not have a dedicated section for all of your vaccines and medication. Before you even book your seat on the plane, make sure that you get all of the recommended medication beforehand. One of which will be your Yellow Fever vaccination.

You will also need to add anti-malaria medication to your Kenya safari packing list. While the larger cities of Kenya will have the option of purchasing over-the-counter medication, some for the rural areas and game reserves don’t have this option.

We advise stocking up on all the necessary items before you leave for your Kenyan adventure!

First aid kit

Safety first! Adding a  well-equipped first aid kit  to your luggage is an absolute essential, especially if you plan on taking part in adventurous excursions. However, even if you plan on taking a more leisurely trip, accidents do happen so it’s best to stay prepared.

Packing list for Kenya: Equipment & Electronics

We suggest investing in a high-quality  camera  that will be able to capture Kenya in all of its beauty whilst still helping you immortalise all of those unforgettable memories. Don’t forget your extra memory cards too!

Make sure to read our blog on the  Ultimate Guide to Wildlife Photography !

Plug adaptors

Adding a universal plug adapter to your Kenya safari packing list is an absolute must, especially if you have any layovers in destinations that use a different type of plug. A  universal travel adapter  is best.

Portable charger

This is without a doubt one of the most essential gadgets that you will have in your suitcase. No one wants to be in a situation where they have no battery life. Make sure that you can charge your electronics whilst you’re on the move by purchasing a  portable charger . A  solar-powered  one is also a great option.

Spotting the  Big Five  is a lot easier when you get to see them up close, which is why  binoculars  definitely deserve a spot on your packing list for Kenya. Not only is it great for safaris, but also for hiking and all of the amazing birdwatching opportunities that Kenya has to offer.

Remember to add a torch to your packing list for Kenya safari! This will ensure that regardless of where you are in the country you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that you have your own source of light. Your  flashlight  will also prove very helpful for evening game drives too!

Kenya is a nature-blessed country that promises to offer you memories that you will savour for a lifetime. All you need to do is make sure that you add our suggestions to your Kenyan packing list, and you are officially ready to embark on one of your greatest adventures yet!

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Unsere Safari Packliste: 13 Insider Tipps zur richtigen Kleidung und Ausrüstung

Aktualisiert am 17.09.2023

Inhaltsverzeichnis

Welches Gepäckstück eignet sie am besten für eine Safari

Warum ist safari kleidung so wichtig das erwartet dich auf einer safari, warum ist die wahl der farbe bei safari kleidung so wichtig, safari kleidung: diese kleidungsstücke gehören auf deine safari packliste, safari kleidung mit mückenschutz imprägnieren, wichtige ausrüstung: diese hilfreichen utensilien gehören auf deine safari packliste, meine persönlichen unverzichtbaren reiseutensilien auf safari, fotoausrüstung, fernglas und co. auf safari, insidertipp: die „mc gyver tasche“ darf auf deiner safari packliste nicht fehlen, plastiktüten und plastikflaschen: das gehört nicht auf die safari packliste, der perfekte reiserucksack – auch auf safari.

Bevor wir mit dem Packen beginnen, sollte geklärt werden, welche Art von Gepäck sich am besten für eine Safari eignet. Wer ein ambitionierter Tierfotograf ist wird seine Fotoausrüstung in der Regel in einem Fotorucksack unterbringen. Wer seinen Fokus jetzt nicht auf die Fotografie legt, dem empfehlen wir ebenfalls einen praktischen und robusten Tagesrucksack * zu nutzen.

Koffer vs. Reisetasche

Für alle weiteren Utensilien bietet sich eine robuste und weiche Reisetasche * an. Koffer, egal in welchem Format, sind ungeeignet und häufig weisen die Safari-Veranstalter bereits vor Reisebeginn darauf hin. Der Grund ist, Taschen sind leichter und lassen sich besser verstauen, ob nun im Minibus oder in der Cessna. Sie lassen sich gut zusammendrücken und nehmen nicht so viel Platz weg wie ein Koffer. Wie es sich bereits erahnen lässt, muss die Reisetasche nicht unbedingt der neueste Trend sein. Nach der Safari wird sie mit großer Wahrscheinlichkeit sehr staubig und vielleicht auch ein wenig mitgenommen sein.

Gepäckbedingungen bei „Buschfliegern“

Wer eine Fly-In Safari gebucht hat, sollte an das limitierte Gewicht denken. Je nach Fluggesellschaft können es 15 kg inklusive Handgepäck (Mombasa Air Safari) sein. Wird dieses Gewicht überschritten, wird der Flugkapitän persönlich entscheiden, ob etwas am Boden zurückbleiben muss oder ob eine zusätzliche Gebühr anfällt. Größere Flughäfen haben für solche Fälle auch Schließfächer im Terminalbereich. Damit es soweit erst gar nicht kommt, unbedingt sich vorher informieren. Man darf nicht vergessen, auf den Sandpisten, den sogenannten Airstrips landen kleine Maschinen, wie etwa die Cessna Grand Caravan mit maximal 12 Passagieren. Da ist schnell die maximale Tragkraft erreicht.

In einem Safariauto ist kein Platz für Koffer.

Eine mehrtägige Safari ist kein Sonntagsausflug ins Grüne. Es wird staubig, warm, kühl und manchmal benötigt man auch ordentlich „Sitzfleisch“. Aus diesem Grund ist eine bequeme und robuste Bekleidung wichtig. Auf einer Morgen- oder Abendpirschfahrt sitzt man in der Regel 4 Stunden im Fahrzeug. Je nach Gegebenheit gibt es kleine Pausen, um sich zu erleichtern oder im Busch zu frühstücken oder eine Lunchpause einzulegen. Die Safarikleidung schützt dich vor der unbarmherzigen Sonne, Moskitos, Staub und Kratzern. Neben den sogenannten game drives werden in den Camps auch Safaris zu Fuß angeboten. Die bush walks sind ein großartiges Erlebnis Tiere zu beobachten und Spuren zu lesen. Hierbei sind festes Schuhwerk, lange Hosen und ein Oberteil in gedeckten Tönen die beste Wahl.

Bei der Farbwahl auf Safari sollte man sich immer ein Beispiel an der Natur nehmen. Warum sind bestimmte Käfer, Insekten, Frösche oder Schlangen besonders farbenfroh? Genau, es ist ein Zeichen für: „Achtung, ich bin giftig! Mach dich lieber aus dem Staub!“ Ich bin mir sicher, keiner von uns möchte, dass wir mit unseren bunten Städteoutfits die Tiere nervös machen und verscheuchen.

Ein weiterer wichtiger Punkt, Safarikleidung in Beige, Sand, Khaki, Olive und Braun passen sich der Umgebung und somit auch den Staub an. Schneller als gedacht kriecht einem der feine rote Sand in alle Kleidungsstücke. Ich habe einmal ein weißes T-Shirt angehabt. Die Flecken habe ich bis heute nicht reinigen können. Als Safarifarbe hat sich bei mir auch grau beziehungsweise grau-melange als sehr praktisch erwiesen.

die praktische Seite von Safarifarben

Die Wege in den Nationalparks und Reservaten sind häufig Schotterpisten mit tiefen Löchern und führen nicht selten durch Flussbette. Schnell holt man sich hier einen Platten und dann heißt es anpacken. Nicht nur einmal habe ich einen Reifen von einem Safarigeländewagen gewechselt. Natürlich hätte ich auch im Wagen sitzen bleiben können, um mich nicht schmutzig zu machen. Aber es ist doch ein Erlebnis zusammen mit seinem Guide einen Reifenwechsel mitten in der Savanne durchzuführen. Oder anderen zu helfen, wenn sich diese festgefahren haben. Das schweißt zusammen und es ist auch ein kleines Abenteuer. Vor allem wenn du das Rudel Hyänen nicht weit von dir im Auge hast, während du die Muttern festziehst. Spätestens, wenn man einen schmutzigen Reifen wechselt, ist man froh, Kleidung zu tragen, welche es einem nicht übel nimmt.

Härtetest für jede Safari Kleidung: der rote Schlamm von Tsavo

gut getarnt auf einem Bush walk mit Giraffen

Schuhe für die Safari

• Stabile Sneaker oder leichte Wander- / Trekkingschuhe

Dieses Paar Schuhe wird dich die größte Zeit auf deiner Safari begleiten und zwar an deinen Füßen. Damit sollte es vor allem gut am Fuß sitzen und zu den Temperaturen passen. Ich trage einen knöchelhohen leichten Wanderschuh, der atmungsaktiv und wasserabweisend ist. Dieses Paar habe ich mir 2007 gekauft, bevor es nach Borneo ging. Letztes Jahr im Mai 2019 auf Kreta in der Imbros-Schlucht hat sich das Profil der Sohlen verabschiedet und seit November 2019 weiß ich, sie sind nicht mehr wasserdicht. Was ich damit sagen will, für einen guten Schuh lohnt es sich ruhig tiefer in die Tasche zu greifen. Er wird dich lange und gerne draußen in der Natur begleiten.

• Flip Flops oder Sandalen

Im Camp oder in der Lodge ist es immer angenehm etwas Luft an die Füße zu bekommen, ob beim Sundowner genießen unterm Vorzelt oder nach dem Schwimmen im Pool.

Safari Kleidung für Mann und Frau

• Pullover oder Fleecejacke

Ein leichter Pullover oder eine Fleecejacke benötigt man vor allem bei den morgendlichen Pirschfahrten. In einigen Regionen kann es über Nacht empfindlich kalt werden aber sobald die Sonne über der Savanne aufgeht wird es schnell warm.

• Hosen: bequem und strapazierfähig

Wie bereits oben erwähnt, sollten die Hosen angenehm zu tragen sein und einiges vertragen können. Mein Partner trägt olivgrüne US Rangerhosen von normani für ca. 30 € das Stück. Das Modell gibt es auch in diversen Tarnfarben aber flecktarn ist ähnlich fehl am Platz wie quietschbunte Shorts. Männer, die nicht nur auf Safari gehen, sondern vielleicht auch unterm Auto liegen oder im Garten anpacken werden diese Hose auch zu diesen Beschäftigungen gern tragen.

• Hemden, Polo, T-Shirts

Bevor man direkt ins Fachgeschäft steuert, kann ruhig zuerst der eigne Kleiderschrank auf den Kopf gestellt werden. Wer Oberbekleidung in den oben genannten Farben besitzt, kann diese sehr gut auf Safari tragen. Die Ärmellänge kann ruhig variieren. Ich persönlich finde 3/4 Arm sehr angenehm zu tragen und mein Partner ist eher der Typ für ein langärmeliges Hemd, welches er hochkrempeln kann. Je nachdem wie die persönlichen Vorlieben sind. Wer eine empfindliche Haut bezüglich Sonne und auch Insektenstiche hat, wird eher zu langärmeligen Hemden greifen. Die Firma Craghoppers hat mit Nosi Life eine Linie entwickelt, die sich auf Kleidungsstücke mit permanenten Insektenschutz spezialisiert hat. Die tagaktiven Tsetsefliegen in der Serengeti konnten uns so nichts anhaben.

• Kurze Hosen

Kurze Shorts lassen sich immer gut in den Camps oder Lodges tragen. Auf Pirschfahrten am Nachmittag hatte ich sie auch schon an aber schnell gemerkt, dass mir der Schutz an den Knien fehlt, wenn ich fotografiere. Auch auf den bush walks oder bei einer Reitsafari sind sie ungeeignet. Schnell sind die Beine durch die Dornen der Akazien zerkratzt und teilweise sogar blutig.

• Schlafanzug, Nachthemd

Wie gesagt, die Nächte können je nach Lage und Region kühl werden. Wer es liebt in Camps zu übernachten sollte sich eher für lange Nachtwäsche entscheiden. In vielen Luxuscamps gibt es als Service eine Wärmflasche unter die Bettdecke. Bei Übernachtungen in einer Lodge wird man den Temperaturunterschied kaum merken. Einige haben sogar Heizungen in den Unterkünften.

• Unterwäsche, Socken
• Badebekleidung

Badeshorts und Bikini auf Safari? In vielen Safari Camps und Lodges gibt es einen Pool. Wer sich zwischen den game drives abkühlen möchte, sollte seine Badesachen mit einpacken.

• Kopfbedeckung

Hier scheiden sich häufig die Geister. Ich liebe meinen Safarihut. Er schützt meine Augen vor der blendenden Sonne und ich bekomme auf den Ohren und auf den Kopf keinen Sonnenbrand. Wer lieber ein Cap oder ein Tuch nehmen möchte, ist ebenfalls gut beraten. Dazu muss ich aber auch sagen, eine Kopfbedeckung ist nicht permanent nötig. Im östlichen Afrika sind vor allem überdachte Safariautos unterwegs. Im südlichen Afrika haben die Geländewagen teilweise kein Dach. Hier sind eine Kopfbedeckung und ausreichend Sonnenschutz unabdingbar.

• Sonnenbrille
• ein „netteres“ Oberteil/Hemd zum Abendessen

Zum Abendessen trage ich gern ein nicht ganz so robustes Kleidungsstück, wie auf der Pirschfahrt. Davon habe ich aber auch nur ein bis maximal zwei in der Tasche und sie sind wegen der Temperaturen und Moskitos langärmelig. Mein Partner ist da pragmatischer, er zieht das frische Hemd vom Abendessen dann am nächsten Morgen auf der Pirschfahrt an.

Extra Spartipp für Safari Kleidung

Eine Safari ist beziehungsweise kann eine teure Angelegenheit sein. Wer sein Budget nicht unbedingt ins unermessliche strapazieren möchte, kann bei der Safari Kleidung einiges sparen. Ganz ehrlich, es muss nicht die megateure Multifunktionshose aus dem Outdoorgeschäft sein. Ich persönlich habe eine wilde Mischung an Hosen vom Discounter, Secondhandmarkt sowie einige aus dem Fachgeschäft. Wichtig ist, sie müssen bequem sein und ich finde die Beintaschen für Fotozubehör und Taschenmesser sehr praktisch. Bei der Oberbekleidung kann ähnlich der Geldbeutel geschont werden.

„unter Beobachtung“ trocknet meine Safari Kleidung in der Sonne

mit dem Buschflieger ins Safari Abenteuer

Wer bei seiner Wahl an Safari Kleidungsstücken nicht komplett auf  Materialen geachtet hat, die keine Mückenstiche durchlässt, sollte seine Safari Kleidung imprägnieren. Das Einsprühen unserer Safari Kleidung gehört mit zum wichtigsten Punkt unserer Safari Packliste. Ein paar Tage bevor es ans Packen geht, sprühen wir alle Kleidungsstücke mit Nobite Kleidung ein. Das sollte unbedingt außerhalb der Wohnung im Freien geschehen. Dieser Schutz hält alle möglichen Moskitos oder Fliegen von einem für ca. 4 Wochen fern. Denn laut einer Studie entstehen 40% der Mückenstiche durch die Kleidung.

Gepardenjunge in der Morgensonne

Reitsafari im Mara Triangle / Kenia

persönliche Dokumente

Auch auf Safari sollten alle nützlichen Dokumente mitgenommen werden. Was ich jedem Reisenden außerhalb von Europa empfehle, sich beim Auswärtigen Amt in der Krisenvorsorgeliste (ELEFAND) elektronisch erfassen zu lassen. Auf diesem Wege wird man per E-Mail über aktuelle politische Situationen über sein Reiseziel während seines Aufenthalts schnell informiert.

• Flugtickets / Reiseunterlagen
• Ausweis / Ausweiskopie
• Reisepass / Reisepasskopie
• Kreditkarte
• Reiseversicherung

In den meisten Safari Camps und Lodges füllt der Gast bei Anreise einen umfangreichen Gästebogen aus. Die Nummer des Ausweises oder des Reisepasses wird sehr häufig abgefragt.

Reiseapotheke

Auch wenn die Reiseapotheke einiges an Platz in der Tasche einnimmt, würde ich nie ohne sie fahren. Ich bin froh, wenn ich sie nicht benötige. Genauso erleichtert bin ich aber auch, wenn ich das richtige Mittel dabei habe.

In meine Reiseapothe gehören Medikamente und Zubehör gegen:

• Insektenstiche
• Insektenschutz für die Haut
• Durchfall (in unterschiedlich starker Form)
• Kopfschmerztabletten
• Schmerztabletten
• Verbandszeug, Pflaster
• Malaria stand by und Malaria Schnelltest
• Reisetabletten
• Sonnenschutzcreme
• persönliche Medikamente

Nicht vergessen : Utensilien für die persönliche Hygiene. Taschentücher und feuchte Reinigungstücher / Desinfektionstücher sind auf Safari eine große Hilfe. Reisewaschmittel darf ebenfalls nicht fehlen. Die meisten Unterkünfte bieten auch einen Wäscheservice an. Einige Wäscheteile habe ich aber auch selbst im Waschbecken gewaschen und in die Sonne gehängt. Das Trocknen geht in der Sonne Afrikas unglaublich schnell, nur sollte die Wäsche in der Zeit nicht aus dem Auge gelassen werden oder zumindest gut gesichert sein. Schneller als gedacht, sitzen sonst die Paviane und Meerkatzen mit deinem frischgewaschenem Hemd auf der Akazie und untersuchen es auf essbarem.

• Taschenmesser

Zur Sicherheit habe ich ein Taschenmesser nicht dabei, sondern eher um etwas zu reparieren oder durch zu schneiden. Ein kleines Taschenmesser ist ein kleiner Helfer für unterwegs und immer gut zu gebrauchen. Aber nicht vergessen, nicht im Handgepäck mitführen. Ich hatte es im Fotorucksack vergessen und in Frankfurt ist es bei der Kontrolle aufgefallen…

• Taschenlampe

Auch eine Taschenlampe ist ein kleiner Helfer und gehört unbedingt auf die Safari Pack Liste. Nicht nur, weil es ab und zu Stromausfälle gibt. Viele Safari Camps schalten nach 22 oder 23 Uhr den Strom aus. Meistens gibt es von Haus aus immer eine Taschenlampe in den Zelten. Meine persönliche Empfehlung ist eine sogenannte Stretchleuchte wie die Illumate 200. Sie lässt sich zusätzlich ausziehen und hinstellen, die Hände sind frei. Die eigne Taschenlampe mit frischen Batterien kommt auch immer gut zum Einsatz, wenn es in Begleitung des Camp-Personals vom Zelt zum Hauptzelt nach Einbruch der Dunkelheit geht. Bei nicht eingezäunten Camps ist dieser kurze Weg immer ein kleines Abenteuer und hält Überraschungen bereit.

• Reisetagebuch, Block, Stift

Nicht nur auf Safari, generell führe ich auf Reisen ein kleines Tagebuch. Aber vor allem nach einem aufregenden Tag in der Wildnis notiere ich Dinge, die ich auf den Pirschfahrten gelernt habe.

• Ladegerät / Solar Ladegerät / USB Ladegerät mit mehreren Anschlüssen / Powerbank

Ein Solar-Ladegerät ist für unterwegs super praktisch. Hier gibt es unterschiedliche Modelle. Einige benötigen sehr lange und der so produzierte Strom ist nicht ausreichend und schnell verbraucht. Elektronische Geräte lassen sich aber generell in allen Unterkünften mit entsprechenden Adapter aufladen. Falls der Strom abgeschaltet wird, erhält man bei der Anreise die genauen Zeiten. Oft passiert das am Nachmittag, während der game drives . Um die Ladezeit optimal zu nutzen, habe ich mir angewöhnt alles über ein Ladegerät mit mehreren USB Eingängen zu laden. Eine gute Powerbank sorgt in der Nacht oder unterwegs für ausreichend Energie.

Elefantenfamilie im Amboseli NP

Fotoausrüstung

Der Punkt Fotoausrüstung und Fotografieren auf Safari ist ein sehr umfangreicher Bereich. Aus diesem Grund habe ich ihm einen gesonderten Beitrag gewidmet. Hier erfahren vor allem Anfänger der ambitionierten Wildlifefotografie alles rund um das Thema Fotografieren auf Safari.

Eine Kurzübersicht:

• Kamera mit Objektiven
• Speicherkarten
• Akkus / Batterien
• Stativ / Beanbag
• Fotorucksack

Das Fernglas auf Safari

Dein Safari Guide hat in der Regel ein Fernglas im Auto. Wer sich besonders seiner Kamera mit Teleobjektiv widmet, wird aller Wahrscheinlichkeit dieses benutzen und nicht extra zum Fernglas wechseln. Wer hauptsächlich fotografieren und filmen möchte, wird auf die Investition in ein Fernglas verzichten und das Geld für ein gutes Objektiv nutzen.

Wer lieber die Natur und die Tiere beobachtet und fotografieren nicht in den Fokus stellt, dem würde ich die Investition in ein gutes Fernglas empfehlen. Bei Ferngläsern ist es ähnlich wie bei Objektiven. Günstigere sind in der Dämmerung nicht so lichtstark und kommen auch nicht auf die gewünschte Entfernung. Ich denke, ein Fernglas ist eine Investition für´s Leben. Das kauft man sich nur einmal und dann sollte es etwas vernünftiges sein. In Fotofachgeschäften oder Jagdausstattern gibt es eine gute Auswahl, inklusive Beratung. Einige namhafte Hersteller von Ferngläsern und Spektiven arbeiten mit dem NABU und dem Nationalpark Wattenmeer zusammen. Bei Veranstaltungen, wie etwa den Westküsten Vogelkiek können Ferngläser getestet werden. Manchmal gibt es auch Vorteilspreise im Vergleich zum üblichen Einzelhandelspreis.

Gelbschnabeltokos im Abendlicht

Mein Safarihut gehört auf meine Safari Packliste

Bevor ich auf den Inhalt der Tasche zu sprechen komme, muss ich erwähnen dass diese kleine Werkzeugtasche die Idee von meinem Partner ist. Ich persönlich bin jetzt nicht der Autobastler aber ich weiß mir zu helfen und der ein oder andere vielleicht auch. Gerade für Selbstfahrer ist ein bisschen Bastelkram immer eine gute Rettung. Aber auch auf einer geführten Tour kann es kostbare Zeit sparen. Manchmal kommt es vor, dass von den unebenen Straßen sich unter der Motorhaube etwas löst. Natürlich hat der Safari Guide auch sein Werkzeug dabei und versucht eine Lösung zu finden. Wer mit Einfallsreichtum und ein bisschen Sachverstand gesegnet ist, kann schnell helfen und sei es nur mit einer helfenden Hand oder einem Kabelbinder.

• Tape / Klebeband ( Zum Abdichten und Reparieren von Kleinigkeiten, wie Türgriffe oder Klimaanlagen.)
• Kabelbinder ( Retter für alles.)
• Stück stabile Schnur (Zubinden oder festbinden von Planen, Türen, Wäscheleine.)
• Leatherman ( Der Werkzeugkasten in einer Hand.)
• Deckenhacken (Damit lässt sich die Taschenlampe unter die Decke hängen.)
• Reißzwecken (Festpinnen u.a. von löchrigen Moskitonetzen uvm.)

Maasai Giraffe bei der Nahrungsaufnahme

Wer in Ländern wie Ruanda, Kenia oder Uganda auf Safari gehen möchte, sollte beim Packen unbedingt auf Plastiktüten verzichten. In diesen Ländern gilt ein strenges Gesetz gegen den Besitz und die Einfuhr von Plastiktüten.

Ab Juni 2020 folgt in Kenias Nationalparks ein weiteres Verbot und zwar gegen Plastikflaschen. Safariunterkünfte und Safariunternehmen bereiten sich bereits auf die Umstellung vor. Wer viel trinkt sollte sich eine zusätzliche Edelstahlflasche einpacken. Mit großer Wahrscheinlichkeit wird es diese ansonsten auch vor Ort geben.

Unsere Empfehlung für dich: Der Travel Backpack Original von WAYKS * ist der perfekte Reiserucksack . Wir konnten ihn inzwischen ausgiebig testen und sind begeistert von der Vielseitigkeit.

Der WAYKS lässt sich im Handumdrehen vom Reiserucksack in einen kleineren Tagesrucksack und eine separate Kameratasche umwandeln . So hast du im Flugzeug alles dabei was du brauchst, bist an deinem Reiseziel aber flexibel .

Den Travel Backpack Original von WAYKS * gibt es in zwei unterschiedlichen Farben – sand und black. Der Sandfarbene passt natürlich auch perfekt zu einer Safari.

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Über die Autorin / Autoren

Anne-Katrin

Als gebürtige Brandenburgerin arbeite ich dort, wo andere in Norddeutschland ihren Urlaub verbringen. Meinen Urlaub verbringe ich am liebsten als leidenschaftliche Wildlife Fotografin - zwischen A wie Afrika bis Z wie Zingst!

14 Kommentare

Hallo, danke für die vielen Tipps! Ich bin auch schon etwas älter und werde nach Kenia reisen. Ich mache eine organisierte Reise, Strand urlaub und Safaris. Ich bin etwas unsicher wegen den Moskitos. (ängstlich). Ich habe gelesen, dass es gut wäre, ein imprägniertes Moskitonetz mitzunehmen. Ist dies notwendig? Ich bin in Hotels und Lodges untergebracht. oh je, ich hätte mir vor vielen Jahren deswegen nicht so viele Gedankden gemacht!!!

Viele Grüße Ulrike

Hallo liebe Ulrike,

in der Regel haben Lodges und Camps Moskitonetze vor Ort. Oft sind sie bereits am Bett angebracht. Ich würde dir ein gutes Moskito Spray empfehlen, wie Nobite. Das gibt es für Haut und Kleidung. Ich wünsche dir eine schöne Reise mit unvergesslichen Momenten. Viele Grüße Anne

Hallo, toller Artikel! Danke dafür! Ich bin im Januar in Uganda auf Safari plus Gorilla Trekkingtour…und suche verzweifelt Schuhe dafür..Schön wäre mit hohem Schaft. Manchmal liest man, am besten aus Leder, dann wieder das Gegenteil. Leicht sollten sie sein. Hast du einen Tip? Liebe Grüße Birgit

Hallo liebe Birgit, Safari in Uganda und Gorilla Trecking hört sich großartig an. Das wäre auch noch ein Traum von mir. Ich bevorzuge auch immer Schuhe mit hohen Schaft und bin seit fast 20 Jahren ein großer Freund von Meindl Boots. In meinen Meindl mit hohen Schaft war ich im Regenwald von Borneo bis in der Savanne der Serengeti unterwegs. Ich würde mich an deiner Stelle in einem Fachgeschäft wie Sportscheck oder Globtrotter beraten lassen und verschiedene Varianten ausprobieren. Denn hoher Schaft ist nicht gleich hoher Schaft, je nach Modell können sie in Material und Gewicht variieren. Du solltest darauf achten, dass sie atmungsaktiv sind aber auch wasserdicht/wasserabweisend. Laufe sie unbedingt schon Monate vorher ein und nicht erst im Urlaub, damit du keine Blasen bekommst. Ich hoffe, ich konnte dir ein bisschen in deiner Entscheidungsfindung helfen. Liebe Grüße Anne

Hallo Anne Katrin wir machen im September eine Safari nach Kenia. Wir sind alle nicht die jüngsten von 67_82 Jahren und nur mit Stock zu Fuß. Auf was müssen wir noch beachten . Ein guter Rat wäre gut . Liebe Grüße Sabine

Hallo Sabine,

zuerst wünsche ich euch allen eine schöne und unvergessliche Safari mit grandiosen Tiererlebnissen. Auf meinen Safaris bin ich immer wieder Reisenden jeglichem Alter begegnet. Jeder sollte seine eignen Grenzen kennen und nicht unterschätzen, was Klima und Umgebung betrifft. Ich würde an eurer Stelle offen mit eurem Safari-Anbieter sprechen, damit er möglichst komfortable Lodges oder Camps ohne viele Treppen öder ähnliche Hindernisse aussucht. Ein Safari Geländewagen wird ebenfalls angenehmer sein, als die doch engen Minibusse, selbst wenn man einige Jahre jünger ist. Werdet ihr eine Fly-In Safari machen oder mit dem Fahrzeug von Nationalpark zu Nationalpark reisen? Diese doch recht langen Fahrten können ebenfalls anstrengend sein. Ich hoffe, ich konnte euch ein wenig weiterhelfen. Liebe Grüße Anne

Hallo Anna Ich habe gerade dein Bericht über Tansania gelesen. Es wurden mir hier viele FRAGEN von dir Beantwortet die ich noch hatte. Wir mein Mann und ich Fliegen am 28.Mai.22 nach Tansania. Ich bin schon so aufgereckt (da wir auch nicht mehr die jüngsten sind 63 und 56 ) macht man sich etwas mehr Gedanken. Ich Danke dir für diesen tollen und interessant Bericht.

Liebe Grüße Giuseppe und Martina

Hallo Martina und Giuseppe, ich wünsche euch eine wunderschöne Reise nach Tansania mit vielen unvergesslichen Tierbeobachtungen. Es freut mich sehr, dass ich viele Fragen von euch mit meinen Artikel beantworten konnte. Liebe Grüße Anne

Hallo aus deiner alten Heimat Brandenburg. Ich entdeckte gerade deine Seite bei der Vorbereitung auf unsere nächste Safari, diesmal in die Serengeti: Es macht Spaß, deine Seiten zu erkunden. Deine Fotos sind unglaublich gut eingefangen und umgesetzt, dein Schreibstil spannend und interessant. Obwohl wir eine Menge Erfahrungen mit Safaris, Afrika, Reisen etc. haben, macht deine Seite einfach große Freude und natürlich schon mal Fernweh. Ich wollte einfach mal Danke sagen.

LG Dirk aus Falkensee

Hallo Dirk, vielen lieben Dank für deine tolles Feedback. Es freut mich, wenn ich bei meinen Lesern den Nerv getroffen habe. Ich würde zu gern wissen, wo ihr bereits überall auf Safari gewesen seid. Das würde mich sehr interessieren. Ich wünsche dir ganz viel Spaß bei deiner Planung zur nächsten Safari und viel Freude in den Weiten der Serengeti. Liebe Grüße ins schöne Havelland Anne

Liebe Anne-Katrin. Vielen Dank, für die vielen Super-Tipps. Vieles weiß man einfach nicht. Wir waren mit 4 Töchtern weltweit unterwegs, meistens auf eigene Faust. Nur in Südafrika waren wir noch nicht. Nachdem unsere 4 erwachsen sind und das Nest verlassen haben, soll es nächstes Jahr für uns beide nach Tansania gehen. Da sind Deine Tipps also sehr willkommen. Noch mal DANKE und hoffentlich können wir alle bald wieder weit reisen. Liebe Grüße Stephanus und Katrin Krenn

Moin und Jambo liebe Katrin und lieber Stephanus, habt ganz lieben Dank für Euer Kommentar. Ich drücke Euch ganz fest die Daumen, damit Ihr endlich in 2023 Tansania bereisen könnt. Ein wunderschönes Land und vor allem im Januar und Februar zur Großen Tierwanderung ein unvergleichbares Erlebnis. Liebe Grüße, Anne-Katrin

Uns wird dieses Jahr wohl auch nichts anderes übrig bleiben als virtuell bzw. mit dem Finger auf dem Globus zu verreisen. Geplant war eine mehrwöchige Rundreise durch Indien mit dem Höhepunkt einer Tiger Tour als Safari an den Ausläufern des Himalaya. Das wird wohl nichts werden

Hallo Roland, ich kann deine Wehmut sehr gut nachvollziehen. Das klingt wirklich nach einer Traumreise und einen Tiger würde ich auch zu gern in Indien in seinem natürlichen Lebensraum beobachten und fotografieren wollen. Aber ich bin mir ganz sicher, es werden wieder andere Zeiten kommen und dann kannst du deine traumhafte Rundreise in die Realität umsetzen. Liebe Grüße Anne

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Kenya Packing List: What to Wear and What Not to Bring

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Are you heading to the upcountry? Masaai Mara? Nairobi? The coast? The different parts of the country can wildly vary in a climate, so it’s important to note the exact place you’ll be staying before you start packing. Our Kenya packing list will give you everything you need to know for a trip to Kenya.

Kenya is an incredible country with breath-taking scenery, sunny beaches, and lush mountains. Being one of the best safari destinations in Africa is an added reason to visit Kenya.

The country is considerably diverse, so your Kenya packing list will depend on which part of the country you intend to visit and the type of activities you will take part in.

Before we dive into what to pack for your Kenya trip, let us talk briefly about the weather.

Weather in Kenya

One of the most critical factors you will want to consider when crafting the perfect Kenya packing list is the weather and the season at the time of your visit.

Kenya typically has a dry and rainy season. The dry season runs from mid-December to March, and the rainy season usually starts from late April through to July and early August.

The country also experiences short rains from time to time. However, since the equator runs through the country, the climate is temperate, so even on the rainy season, it never gets too cold.

Assuming you’ll take part in different top excursions and adventures if you visit Kenya, here is a list of recommended items plus tons of good ideas.

21 Top Kenya Packing List Items

The coastal part of the country offers fantastic pearly beaches, so make sure you pack smart-casual in case an opportunity for a romantic dinner date arises.

For safari trips, you’ll need to wear loose and comfortable clothing. 

Remember, avoid wearing brightly-colored clothes on a safari – one reason being you need to camouflage with the surroundings as much as possible lest you miss a chance to spot lions. 

The second reason is a safari in Africa can be pretty dusty since the roads in Animal National Parks are not tarmacked.

For beach and other activities; however, your preference should guide you best.

Shirt or Blouse

If you’re headed to the Kenyan coast lightweight button-up shirt/blouse are great whether you’re strolling along the white sandy beaches or you’re out for nightlife.

Great Rift Valley and the western part of the country can get a little bit cold at night so be sure to pack a few warm clothes and cozy nightwear .

A pair or two of comfortable pants would be great for early morning excursions like morning or dusk safari walk. 

Even in the dry season, the bushes will be full of morning dew enough to make your legs wet, so shorts may not be the best option.

Cargo pants , for instance, are a great alternative as they’re comfortable and can be used for adventurous activities like hiking or rock-climbing.

Hiking Shoes

Pack footwear best suited for the purpose of your trip. If you plan to have an adventure in the mountains, be sure to get a good pair of grip boots.

A smart traveler travels light, so it’s vital to pack multi-purpose clothing and footwear is no exception. Make sure your hiking boots can serve you well if you decide to go on walking safaris.

Ideally, they should be lightweight with at least ankle support, which will perfect for the bush since the terrain can be uneven and rocky. They should also be comfortable to avoid blisters. 

Make sure you wear the boots a couple of times before you travel to break them in. You can get some from here .

Casual Shoes

Pack a casual pair of shoes for city strolls or night dates. Sturdy sandals are fantastic, especially if you’re going to explore the charming streets of the coastal part of Kenya.

Most high-end accommodations usually provide their guests with room slippers, but it’s always a good idea to carry flip flops just in case.

Rain Jacket

A rain jacket will be necessary if you’re visiting towards the end of the rainy season. One minute could be all bright and shiny, but the next could be gloomy and raining. You can get one from here .

Kenya is blessed with a lot of sunshine, but too much of anything will definitely make you uncomfortable. 

Whether you’ll be going on a safari, a hiking tour, or lying lazily on the beach, a hat is a must-pack item when visiting Kenya. You can get one here .

If you wear contact lenses and you intend to go on a safari, you may want to wear some sunglasses to prevent your eyes from drying out in the heat.

But if you do not wear contact lenses, you should plan on having sunglasses, so you do not have to squint on those sunny days.

Tech and Gear 

This is an obvious item for any avid traveler, but there is a need to remind you that Kenya is full of picturesque locations. Make sure you invest in a good camera to capture those unforgettable memories.

Plug Adapter 

If you’re traveling from anywhere else apart from the UK, make sure you pack a plug adapter. A universal plug adaptor would be great, especially if you have any layovers in destinations that use a different type of plug.

Also, invest in proper power converters as Kenyan electric switches supply between 220 and 240 volts.

Portable Charger 

This is one of the most essential gadgets as you’ll need to recharge your camera or phone if they run low on battery. Seriously, you can’t afford to miss a moment in Kenya. You can buy one here.

Binoculars 

Binoculars are especially crucial for hiking and safaris, where you’ll have the Big Five to spot plus lots of birdwatching opportunities. If you’ll take part in nocturnal game drives, be sure to park night vision equipment . 

Power isn’t exactly reliable in Kenya or the capital. Although many high-end hotels have a back-up in case of a blackout, you may want to have a small flashlight just in case. It also helps a lot if you’re camping.

Wet Wipes and Hand Sanitizer 

Trust me, wet wipes and sanitizers are not among the most common items in Africa. Kenya is not any different, especially if you are traveling to rural areas. 

These items are widely available in Nairobi and other major cities, but you may not have the extra time to run to the store.

Plan to pack a few hand sanitizer bottles/ wet pipes or both. Some parts of the country are short of running water and hand wash so you’ll need a lot of hand wipes so you can stay healthy.

Bug and Insect Repellent 

The coast and the western part of the country are famous for having bugs and malaria-causing mosquitos. 

Be sure to pack an ample amount of bug and mosquito repellent spray . If you are going on a safari, beware of the tsetse flies, blood-sucking insects that transmit sleeping sickness in humans. A good bug repellent should keep them away.

This is yet another safari essential and, obviously, a must-pack for a beach getaway in Kenya. You can get one here .

Documents and Details 

Have your passport plus your stamped visa ready for inspection at the customs offices. You might also need to provide your itinerary as well as travel insurance papers.

You should also have a list of contacts that can be used in case of an emergency.

Travel Insurance 

It is essential to get travel insurance no matter where you are traveling to. 

It’s mainly a requirement that is helpful when traveling to Kenya and East Africa in general, where treatment in an excellent health facility can be costly.

Passport Holder 

You’ll need a passport holder that can withstand both dusty and wet environments.

A Swahili Phrasebook 

This is not a necessity. Swahili is a fun language to learn, and locals appreciate any tourist that attempts to communicate in their native language. Even a simple ‘Hi’ or a ‘Thank you’ will earn you brownie points.

Medications and Vaccination 

Before you travel, be sure to pay your doctor a visit so that they can advise on the recommended vaccines. 

Most African countries require proof of Yellow Fever vaccination prior to entry. Check the CDC website to confirm if up to date information on whether or not you will need a yellow fever vaccination.

Anti-malaria drugs are essentials, especially if you’re traveling to the western or coastal parts of the country.

You will find all over-the-counter medications in the larger cities, especially in the capital but not in rural areas or in the game reserves. For this reason, it’s advisable to shop in major cities for prescribed or other drugs you might need.

First-Aid Kit 

A first-aid kit is essential, particularly if you are planning to take part in adventurous excursions.

What Do People Wear in Kenya?

Women in kenya .

Kenya is one of the most modernized countries in Africa, according to the World Population Re view. So as long as you dress appropriately, you should not encounter any problems. Wearing clothes that are at least knee-length is the standard dress code. 

You might be barred from entering spiritual places like temples, mosques, and churches if you are dressed inappropriately.

Ideally, if you will be visiting any religious institution, maxi dresses will be perfect. When you’re visiting malls or other public places, knee-length skirts or shorts will do.

Men in Kenya

There is no particular dress cord, although if you visit rural areas like the Maasai villages, you might see some men dressed in traditional sheets.

Feel free to dress in traditional sheets if you like, but it is not a requirement. When you’re visiting religious institutions, wear trousers and long-sleeved shirts.

Other Commonly-forgotten Items for a Trip to Kenya

Jeans Sandals Heels Headphones Aloe Vera Mosquito repellant Backpack Travel sheet Travel pillow Kindle/Kindle cover Memory card Headphones Headphone splitter GorillaPod Lightweight scarf

Vitamins/Supplements Dramamine Lip balm Contact lens solution Hairbrush/Comb Loofah glove Underpants/Bras Feminine products Toiletry bag Headlamp Umbrella Journal Small lock Swimsuit

Swimsuit cover-up Hats/Caps Jacket: Women’s & Men’s Luggage/Packing cubes Steamer Razor Immunization Records Drivers License/Photo ID Credit Card and Cash Money Belt Neck Pillow Eye Mask Water Bottle Towels

Packing List for Kenya: What Not to Bring

It’s important to note that plastic bags are not allowed in Kenya. This includes:

• Ziploc bags 
• Grocery bags
• Garbage bags 
• Duty-free bags

When traveling in Kenya, it’s advisable to use woven reusable bags instead.

Concluding the Kenya Packing List

The above list contains all the essential items that you’ll need on your Kenyan visit. Most of the items listed are lightweight to help you travel as light as possible.

This post helps you pack everything you need to be comfortable when you are away. But at the same time, not pack too much where it becomes a burden; this Kenya packing list provides precisely that.

You should use this packing list as a checklist to make sure you don’t leave anything behind on your getaway to Kenya.

If you plan on visiting multiple African countries on your trip, our travel guide , destinations , African national park pages will provide some inspiration. Happy Traveling!

21 Kenya Packing List Items

Tech and Gear

Shirt or Blouse Hiking Shoes Casual Shoes Rain Jacket Hat Sunglasses

Camera Plug Adapter  Portable Charger  Binoculars  Flashlight

Wet Wipes Hand Sanitizer Insect Repellent  Sunscreen Medications

Passport Travel Insurance Passport Holder  Phrasebook Vaccination First-Aid Kit

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I may contradict with you on power…. Power in Kenya is reliable.. Though the article is great.. ?????❤️

Thanks, Cyprian! We appreciate you sharing your honest feedback.

xo ~ Louisa

Great Article, One day i will like to visit Kenya and have some good time in the country, I hope the have good Livescore sporting activities.

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Packing List for Kenya Safaris

You’re about to embark on an adventure of a lifetime—a safari in Kenya! From the stunning landscapes of Maasai Mara to the vibrant wildlife that calls it home, a Kenyan safari is an experience like no other. You’re likely already dreaming of getting up close and personal with some of Earth’s most magnificent creatures.

But before you jump on that plane, there are a few things you need to consider when packing on preparing for a Kenya safari. A safari in Kenya is unlike any other holiday—you’ll be spending the majority of your time outdoors, exposed to the elements, and you need to make sure you have all the right gear.

Whether you’re planning a camping trip out in the wild or a luxurious stay at one of Kenya’s world-famous game lodges, it pays to be prepared. To help ensure everything runs smoothly during your travels, we’ve put together a comprehensive packing list for exploring Kenyan safaris. Read on for our ultimate guide!

What to pack for your Kenya Safari

Are you ready to explore the wilds of Kenya? If so, you will want to make sure that you pack the right items to make your safari as enjoyable and memorable as possible. What should you include in your packing list? Let’s take a look.

First, when it comes to clothing, make sure to bring along light and breathable fabrics that are comfortable against the skin. Shirts, shorts, and pants made from quick-drying materials like nylon or polyester are best. Additionally, hats and sunglasses are a must-have for protection against the sun’s strong rays, while a light raincoat or poncho will come in handy during the rainy season.

In terms of footwear, sturdy hiking boots with good grip are essential for keeping your feet protected during long treks. You may also want to pack a water-shoe–to keep your toes out of harm’s way when crossing rivers or streams.

Finally, don’t forget important items like insect repellent (to keep away pesky insects), water bottles (staying hydrated is key!), binoculars (for bird watching or spotting wildlife from afar) and a camera (for capturing unforgettable memories).

What to Wear on a Kenyan Safari

When it comes to what to wear for a Kenyan safari, comfort and practicality is key. You’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors, so you want clothes that are lightweight and breathable. You’ll also need to think about covering yourself up from the sun and the dust. Here’s what you should include:

• Lightweight Tops : Loose, long-sleeved shirts are best, as they will protect your skin from the sun while still being breathable. A couple of lightweight sweaters or cardigans may also come in handy in case of cooler weather.
• Pants and Shorts : Khakis or cargo pants are great for safaris as they are durable enough to withstand plenty of outdoor activities. Some shorts should also be packed if you expect warmer temperatures.
• Footwear : The key here is to bring shoes that you can easily slip on and off but that gives you enough support when walking around outdoors. Closed-toe shoes are recommended as they will protect your feet from any bugs or reptiles out in nature. Spare laces may also come in handy if needed.

Gadgets and Tech Accessories for a Safari travel

Gadgets and tech accessories are essential for any Kenyan safari . You’ll need items such as a camera, phone, power bank, binoculars, and more to stay connected and capture all the amazing sights and experiences you encounter on your journey.

Here is a comprehensive checklist of must-have gadgets and tech accessories for your Kenyan safari:

• Camera: A good camera is essential for documenting your safari journey. Make sure you bring extra lenses, battery packs, tripods, and lens cleaners.
• Phone: Cell phones can be an indispensable tool when exploring Kenya’s wonders. Make sure to bring the necessary chargers and adaptors for staying connected while on the go.
• Power Bank: Power banks are a great way to stay charged up while exploring remote areas of Kenya. Look for compact models that provide plenty of juice but still fit in your bag or pocket.
• Binoculars: Binoculars are essential for spotting wildlife from afar, so make sure to bring a pair along on your safari. Look for lightweight models with good magnification power so you don’t miss out on the beautiful sights of Kenya’s wildlife!
• GPS device: A GPS device can help you navigate safely through unfamiliar terrain while keeping track of landmarks and other points of interest.

Health and Safety Items to Pack for a Kenyan Safari

When exploring Kenya safaris, you may think about what clothes to bring, but health and safety items should be at the top of your packing list as well. It’s always a good idea to be prepared in case of any medical emergency or other unexpected situation. So here are some health and safety items to consider bringing on a Kenyan safari:

First aid kit

Pack a compact but comprehensive first aid kit containing bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes and ointments, painkillers like aspirin and ibuprofen, insect repellent, anti-malarial tablets, sunscreen and more.

Bring along any prescription medication you need for your trip. It’s also a good idea to have over-the-counter medications for common ailments such as allergies, headaches,s or nausea on hand just in case.

Personal safety items

You should also pack personal safety items such as a whistle (for drawing attention in case of an emergency), a flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries, a pocket knife and a multitool for those small fixes or sudden situations.

Medical insurance

It’s essential that you get medical insurance for your Kenyan safari trip. You don’t want to get stuck with extremely high bills if you have an accident or need emergency medical care while away from home. So make sure that your policy covers medical treatment abroad before you leave!

Accessories and Miscellaneous Items to Pack for a Kenyan Safari

No adventure is complete without the right accessories and miscellaneous items. Here are some of the must-haves you will want to bring along with you on your Kenyan safari:

First Aid Kit

No matter where you go in the world, a first aid kit should always be a part of your packing list. Make sure to include things like bandages, disinfectants, painkillers, insect bite remedies, and any other medications you may need.

Bring along binoculars so you can get a better view of some of Kenya’s amazing wildlife from afar.

Camera Gear

Of course, an essential for any adventure is a good camera. If you plan on taking high-quality photos or videos, remember to pack your extra lenses and memory card as well.

A flashlight can come in handy when exploring Kenya’s many national parks after dark or if you find yourself in an unanticipated situation when visibility is low. A headlamp is a great option as it not only keeps your hands free while navigating but can make finding small items much easier.

Sun & Rain Gear

A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are a must when exploring any outdoor environment – especially one as diverse as Kenya! Bringing along rain gear is also recommended for sudden downpours that occur during the wet season.

What to Expect on a Game Drive in Kenya

Are you ready to explore the wilderness of Kenya? Before you go, you should put together your packing list. Game drives in Kenya offer amazing opportunities to see wildlife in its natural habitat. But you’ll need to have the right items with you if you’re going to make the most of your experience.

Besides the basics like light clothing and comfortable shoes, here are a few things you’ll want to bring:

• Sunblock and insect repellant: Even if it’s cool, the sun can be intense on a game drive and insect bites can ruin any fun.
• Binoculars: A good pair of binoculars will allow you to spot animals from a distance.
• Camera and extra lenses: You won’t want to miss capturing all those moments so be sure to bring something good with plenty of memory cards or film rolls.
• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes with some shades so you can really enjoy the sights without discomfort from the sun’s glare.
• Hat or scarf: Keep your head covered while driving in an open-top vehicle so it doesn’t get too hot or too cold
• Water bottle: Make sure you stay hydrated and have something handy to refill whenever possible!
• Snacks: Useful when long drives take longer than expected, they will be lifesavers!

Remember that while venturing into nature can be breathtaking, comfort should always come first when packing for a game drive in Kenya!

What Should You Not Bring to Kenya

When packing for your Kenya safari, there are a few things you should definitely leave at home. Firstly, don’t bring any valuables that you’re not comfortable losing – there’s always a risk of losing your belongings when traveling.

Secondly, avoid bringing anything that could potentially offend or upset local cultures and customs – be respectful of Kenya’s traditions and customs.

 Lastly, make sure you’re not packing anything that could potentially harm the environment – leave your single-use plastics at home, and don’t bring anything that could potentially disturb the delicate ecosystems you’ll be encountering on your safari.

Travel Papers

No matter where you’re going in the world, it’s always important to have your travel papers in order. That’s especially true when you’re planning to explore Kenya safaris. Before you set off on your adventure, make sure you have your passport, visa, and other required documents in hand.

Having your travel papers in order is the first step in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip. So take the time to do some research and make sure you have everything you need before you head to Kenya. With the right preparation, you’re sure to have an amazing safari experience.

No one wants to be caught off guard when going on a safari in Kenya, so here are the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about what to pack for your trip.

What kind of clothing should I bring?

It’s important to dress comfortably and practically, while also thinking about the climate of Kenya. Layers work best—lightweight tops, breathable shirts or blouses and long pants will be the most useful. For footwear, you’ll need something that’s comfortable and sturdy, like sneakers, hiking boots or sandals.

Do I need insect repellent?

Yes! Especially if you plan on visiting during a wet season or in areas with high humidity levels. You’ll want an effective insect repellent like [Featured Product], which is specifically designed to repel mosquitos and other pesky bugs. Additionally, you may want to bring along a few insect-fighting essentials like DEET wipes, mosquito coils, citronella candles and mosquito nets for extra protection against mosquitoes.

Do I need to bring a hat?

Absolutely! A wide-brimmed hat is essential for keeping your head cool when you’re out walking in direct sunlight and under scorching temperatures. It also helps keep sun out of your face so you can better enjoy your safari experience!

What colors to wear on safari in Kenya?

When you’re packing for a Kenya safari, you’ll want to make sure you have the right clothing to blend in with your surroundings. Depending on the time of year you’re visiting, you’ll want to pack light-colored clothing that won’t absorb too much heat, like khaki, beige, or white. You’ll also want to avoid wearing anything too bright or flashy, as this can scare away the wildlife. In terms of footwear, closed-toe shoes are a must, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking. And if you’re planning on going on any bush walks, you’ll need to pack a good pair of walking boots.

Packing for a Kenyan safari is all part of the adventure, and there’s really no right or wrong way to go about it. The key is to think ahead, prepare and be flexible. The ultimate goal is to make sure you have everything you need to make the most out of your safari and have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Though packing for a safari in Kenya may seem overwhelming, the time and effort spent before your trip will make a world of difference during your game drives. Prepare and pack accordingly and you’ll be ready for whatever the Wild brings your way.

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Kenya safari packing list.

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kenya Safari Packing List Overview

Kenya is a country with diverse attraction to the beautiful National parks and dense wildlife. Make sure, the lesser you pack more convenient it will be for you to move around. However, the  Safari Packing List Kenya  depends on what you want to see and how you would like on your Kenya Safari Tours .

Helpful Tips

Find the best Kenya Safari tours in 2020/2021 with AARD Wolf Africa Adventure. Our wildlife tours and holidays in Kenya are popular individual tours on Safari in Kenya, including tours to the Masai Mara. Discover your own Kenya Safari experience with a tailored tour that hits all the highlights.

Kenya Packing List: What to pack for Kenya?

The main thing you will need to focus on Kenya Safari Tours is; the baggage should be kept to a Minimum of 15kg as you will be using a chartered Aircraft from Nairobi to Masai Mara.

You will need to carry a soft duffle bag as the hard suitcase will not fit in the baggage compartment of the small aircraft. This limit is including handbag.

What clothes to wear on safari in Kenya: Clothing for Men and Women during your Kenya Safari:

Breathable and earth tone clothing – The main reason to wear earth toned clothing is to blend yourself in the environment. The bright colours may scare the animals especially if you are in game drives and walking Safaris.

You can carry a waterproof long pants, Waterproof jackets and raincoat, swimsuit, durable and light weight shoes for walking and sandals for wearing around the camp. You will need room slippers and a safari hat with a strap as per  Kenya Travel Guide .

All men and women should carry:

2 full sleeved shirts

5 sets of undergarments

Fleece lined shirt

2 pairs of cotton pant or trousers

2 cargo pants

1 pair of comfortable shorts

3 pair of socks

Additionally, women’s should carry 4 sports bra.

What to pack for a Safari in Kenya | Toiletries and basic medical kit recommendation for Kenya:

Vaccination card – Make sure the mandatory vaccinations that are recommended for Kenya Safari Destinations are done few months before departure. Like; Yellow fever vaccination

First Aid Kit – You will need to carry a well-stocked first Aid kit. The African towns are miles away from the bushes.

Insect repellent – This is main thing if you are travelling through a Malaria infected area. It is better to prevent mosquito bites even if you are taking anti-malaria vaccines.

You can also bring some common painkillers like Ibuprofen, Tylenol or Panadol, Aspirin, antacid for indigestion, tablets for diarrhea and a complete supply of the prescription drugs you take.

Carry travel size packs of toothpaste, deodorants, hand sanitizers and toothbrush and Sunscreen with the appropriate SPF.

Women must carry adequate feminine hygiene supplies such as tampons and pads, and panty liners are also recommended. Carry all supplies in a cover bag for protection against moisture and dust.

Travel Documents & Money Guidance for Kenya:

Passport and Stamped visa

Return tickets

Medical and Travel insurance papers

Details of emergency contact

Digital copy of passport pages

Safari Packing List Kenya: Don’t leave home without these essentials:

You will need to carry all the electronic gadgets and make sure you in the preferring the best time to visit Kenya to make memories. Here is the list of electronic gadgets which you need to pack as per Kenya Travel guide

Camera to capture memories. Take a compact one if possible

Phone for communication purpose only.

Kindle if you like reading, I suggest you to carry one.

Headlamp important for track and reading during evening.

Extra batteries for backup.

Ear plugs as there will be lot of noise at night.

Portable battery charger essential to charge all the above electronics.

Plug Adapters / Convertors, Usb Flash Drive

Memory Cards for Your Camera.

These are main Safari Packing List Kenya to make your Kenya Safari complete with an ease and tension free. In any case, if you miss to pack any of these essentials, do not worry.

We at Aardwolf Africa Adventure Safari can arrange you some of the essential requirements on rental basis to make your Kenya Safari Tours successful.

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Frequently asked questions

Kenya Safari FAQs

The cost of Safari normally depends on the number of days you have to spend in the country and what type of accommodations would you like to choose and what type of Safari would you like to go with. The Kenya Safari cost will range from $500 to $5000 per person according to your choices and preferences.

There are few extra costs for additional special activities if you prefer, like; Hot Air Balloon, Night game drives, Birding Safari and other activities. Tipping in Kenya Safari is also followed by most of the travellers and you will need to include it in the Safar cost.

Kenya welcomes you year around with its diverse nature and wildlife habitat. There are 2 main seasons in Kenya; Dry and Wet season. The best time to visit Kenya Safari is on dry season which is from June to September and December to January.

The length of the Safari depends on what you want see, what is your holiday duration, budget and if you are travelling for the first time. The normal spending time in the Safari is 7 to 9 days. The longer you spend time in the parks; it is more likely to spot wild.

You will be able to see most of the wild animals and birds in Kenya. However, the most important ones are Big5 and Big9. The Big5 are; Lion, Leopards, Rhino, Elephant and Cape buffalo. The Big Nine are; Big Five and Cheetah, Giraffe, Hippopotamus, Zebra. This is one of the most important Kenya Safari Facts.

Kenya Lodge Safari and hotel accommodations range from deluxe, world-class properties to local inns, full-service tented camps, game-park lodges, beach resorts and camp grounds. You can go with properties that are Mid Luxury and above.

It depends on which state you are coming from it could take upwards of 36 hours to get from the US to Nairobi.

Example: If you are flying from Los Angeles to Nairobi with Air France and had one layover in Paris. That first leg will be 11 hrs. Paris to Nairobi would come up to 9 hours.

The price is decided according to your choice of airlines and seat preference. There are flights starting from $700 for base level economy. The flights are long and typically overnight. This is the best time to use those credit card or airline points to upgrade to business class and enjoy the every worth of it.

There are no major requirements of vaccinations to visit Kenya. However, if you are travelling from a country which is affected from Yellow fever, then you will need to carry a Yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Kenya. The other recommended vaccines are; Typhoid, Tetanus, Hepatitis A, Malaria and Rabies.

As pet the Kenya Travel guide, the best Safari in Kenya is; Game drives and bush safari, Beach Safari, Bird watching and more. The best safari destinations in Kenya are; Masai Mara, Amboseli National Park, Lake Nakuru National Park, Mount Kenya, Tsavo National Parks, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Mombasa Beach, Samburu, Shaba and Buffalo spring National Reserves.

The Safaris in Kenya are 100% safe. Riding around in the open air vehicles on game drives is one of the coolest experiences. At times you will be within 5 to 6 feet of lions but never once you will feel scared. The Kenya guides are very experienced and know how to read these animals.

Additionally, if anything were to happen to a guest a guide can lose their license entirely, so they will not put you in a situation that would ultimately harm you. It’s important to trust them and listen to their directions!

The Safaris are organised in the National parks and conservation areas. The best safaris of Kenya are arranged in Masai Mara National Reserve, Lake Nakuru National Park and other main national parks.

Both of the countries has the similar way of tourism with all the wilderness and landscapes, but Kenya got into the tourism industry very earlier than Tanzania, so Kenya would be a preferred place for Safari in Africa. You can also opt for Kenya Tanzania combined safari.

Yes, Kenya is an expensive country to visit as a tourist. The gap between what locals earn and what you spend as a tourist is also very large. The minimum salary in Kenya is only 20038 sh, which amounts to $186, while as a tourist we already spend $186 per day. This makes Kenya even for Kenyans themselves very expensive.

Yes, if you request with specific needs, the safari and accommodation facility will be available for a wheel chair passenger. The diet requirement can also be arranged. The guides and drivers are experienced to take care of specially able people.

The standard Safari vehicle type in Kenya is 4x4 land cruiser Jeep, Safari Minivan. These both are sufficiently adequate for Kenya Safari Tours . The Minivan comes with a pop-up top for perfect game viewing. The 4x4 has windows and pop-up roofs for the best possible Safari experience.

These are the Kenya Safari Faqs which will be helpful for you to make a quick decision if you have any confusion while you are in Kenya.

For your very own cuteness overload, February is the time to visit Kenya,

More Kenya Safari Guide

Kenya Safari Cost

Best Time To Visit Kenya

Kenya Safari Facts

Safari Packing List Kenya

Tipping In Kenya Safari

Kenyan Food

Is Kenya Safe

Kenya Travel Guide

Things To Do In Kenya

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Packing for Kenya Safari: Crafting the Ultimate Safari Packing List

In the heart of Africa lies Kenya, a land of captivating beauty and extraordinary wildlife. For those embarking on a safari adventure here, meticulous packing is essential. From the vast savannas of the Maasai Mara to the dense forests of Aberdare National Park, Kenya's diverse landscapes offer unparalleled opportunities to encounter some of the world's most majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

In this article, we'll delve into the intricacies of crafting the perfect packing list, ensuring you're well-equipped for the journey ahead. So, let's begin our exploration of the essential packing essentials for your Kenya tours .

Understanding Kenya: Safari Adventures Await

Kenya's allure lies not only in its stunning landscapes but also in the unparalleled wildlife experiences it offers. Here, amidst the vast savannas, towering mountains, and lush forests, safari adventures await those eager to explore the untamed wilderness.

Diverse Landscapes: Kenya boasts an array of ecosystems, from the iconic savannas of the Maasai Mara and Amboseli to the rugged terrain of Mount Kenya and the coastal plains of Tsavo. Each landscape harbors its own unique flora and fauna, promising a diverse safari experience.

Rich Wildlife: Renowned for the "Big Five" (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros), Kenya is home to a staggering variety of wildlife. From the majestic herds of elephants to the graceful giraffes and elusive big cats, the country's national parks and reserves teem with life.

Cultural Heritage: Beyond its natural wonders, Kenya's cultural heritage adds depth to the safari experience. Encounter the vibrant traditions of the Maasai people, visit local villages, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Kenyan culture.

Conservation Efforts: Kenya is at the forefront of conservation efforts, with many parks and reserves dedicated to protecting its wildlife. Learn about the challenges facing conservationists and the measures being taken to preserve Kenya's natural heritage for future generations.

Understanding Kenya's diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, cultural heritage, and conservation efforts sets the stage for an unforgettable safari adventure. As you prepare for your journey, keep in mind the unique experiences that await you in this captivating country.

Kenyan Adventures Begin: Packing for a Kenya Safari

Embarking on a safari adventure in Kenya marks the beginning of an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa's wilderness. To ensure you're fully prepared for your safari experience, follow this step-by-step guide on how to pack efficiently for your Kenya safari, along with suggestions on organizing your luggage:

Research Your Destination:

• Familiarize yourself with the climate and terrain of the areas you'll be visiting in Kenya to determine the appropriate clothing and gear to pack.

Create a Packing List:

• Make a comprehensive packing list that includes essentials such as clothing, footwear, toiletries, safari gear, and personal items.

Gather Your Gear:

• Lay out all the items you plan to pack, including clothing, gear, and accessories, to assess what you have and what you may need to acquire.

Prioritize Essentials:

• Identify essential items that you'll need for daily activities, such as safari drives, nature walks, and cultural excursions.

Pack Versatile Clothing:

• Choose lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors that can be layered for warmth or protection against the sun and insects.
• Pack clothing items that can serve multiple purposes to minimize the number of items you need to bring.

Organize Your Luggage:

• Use packing cubes or compression bags to organize your clothing and maximize space in your luggage.
• Place heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase or backpack to distribute weight evenly and prevent crushing lighter items.

Protect Fragile Items:

• Use padded cases or protective sleeves for delicate electronics, such as cameras and lenses, to prevent damage during travel.
• Consider carrying valuables and important documents in a secure and easily accessible location, such as a travel wallet or neck pouch.

Leave Room for Souvenirs:

• Leave some extra space in your luggage for souvenirs and gifts you may purchase during your safari adventure.
• Consider packing a foldable duffel bag or collapsible suitcase for additional storage on the return journey.

Double-Check Your Packing:

• Before zipping up your luggage, double-check your packing list to ensure you haven't forgotten any essential items.
• Consider weighing your luggage to avoid exceeding weight limits for domestic flights or safari vehicles.

Enjoy Your Safari:

• With your luggage packed efficiently and organized, you're ready to embark on your Kenya safari adventure with peace of mind and excitement.
• Remember to stay flexible and adaptable as you immerse yourself in the wonders of Kenya's wildlife, landscapes, and culture.

By following these steps and suggestions, you can pack efficiently and effectively for your Kenya safari, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable adventure from start to finish.

Environmental Regulation: Kenya's Ban on Plastic Bags

As of August 28, 2017, Kenya has implemented a nationwide ban on plastic bags. This ban prohibits the manufacturing, importation, distribution, and use of plastic bags, including both thin plastic bags used for shopping and thicker plastic bags used for packaging.

The ban aims to reduce environmental pollution and protect Kenya's ecosystems, wildlife, and public health. Violators of the ban may face fines or imprisonment. Visitors to Kenya are advised to adhere to this regulation and refrain from bringing plastic bags into the country.

Alternative eco-friendly options, such as reusable cloth bags, are encouraged for shopping and packing purposes.

Crafting Your Kenya Safari Packing List - What to Include in your Kenya Packing List

Preparing for a safari adventure in Kenya requires careful planning and consideration of the essentials you'll need to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here's a guide to creating a comprehensive packing list tailored specifically for your Kenya safari:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors to blend into the natural surroundings.
• Long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect against the sun, insects, and thorny vegetation.
• A lightweight waterproof jacket for unexpected rain showers or cooler evenings.
• Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for exploring the terrain.

Safari Gear:

• Binoculars for wildlife viewing from a distance.
• A wide-brimmed hat or cap to shield your face from the sun.
• Sunglasses with UV protection to safeguard your eyes.
• A camera with extra batteries and memory cards to capture memorable moments.

Personal Essentials:

• Sunscreen with a high SPF to protect against sunburn.
• Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
• Personal medications and a basic first aid kit for minor injuries or illnesses.
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes for maintaining hygiene in remote areas.

Travel Documents:

• Valid passport with at least six months' validity from the date of entry.
• Visa (if required) and copies of important travel documents.
• Travel insurance documents for medical emergencies and trip cancellations.

Miscellaneous Items:

• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during game drives.
• Snacks such as energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit for quick nourishment.
• Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries for navigating at night.

Optional Extras:

• Lightweight, compact binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing.
• Field guidebooks or wildlife identification cards to learn about the flora and fauna.
• Travel pillow and earplugs for comfortable rest during long drives or flights.

By considering these essentials and tailoring your packing list to your specific needs and preferences, you'll be well-prepared to embark on an unforgettable safari adventure in Kenya. Remember to pack light and efficiently, leaving room for souvenirs and memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Ensuring Comfort: Packing Toiletries and Essentials

When preparing for a safari trip in Kenya, packing the right toiletries and personal care items is essential for maintaining comfort and hygiene throughout your journey. Here are some tips to help you pack toiletries and essentials effectively, emphasizing the importance of lightweight and compact products:

Minimize Toiletries:

• Prioritize essential toiletries and avoid packing bulky or unnecessary items. Opt for multi-purpose products to save space and weight.

Travel-sized Containers:

• Transfer your favorite toiletries, such as shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, into travel-sized containers to reduce bulk and weight.
• Consider purchasing travel-sized versions of your favorite products or look for solid alternatives, such as shampoo bars and solid deodorant.

Compact Packaging:

• Choose toiletries with compact packaging to save space in your luggage. Look for collapsible toothbrushes, foldable hairbrushes, and compact mirrors.

Dual-purpose Products:

• Select toiletries that serve multiple purposes to streamline your packing. For example, choose a moisturizer with SPF for sun protection, or a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner.

Disposable Items:

• Pack disposable items such as travel-sized packs of tissues, cotton swabs, and makeup remover wipes for convenience and hygiene.
• Consider using travel-sized packets of laundry detergent for washing clothes on the go.

Sun Protection:

• Don't forget to pack sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from the harsh African sun. Opt for a lightweight, non-greasy formula that won't weigh you down.

Insect Repellent:

• Pack insect repellent containing DEET or other effective ingredients to ward off mosquitoes and other biting insects.
• Consider using insect repellent wipes or wristbands for convenience and ease of use.
• Bring a reusable water bottle or hydration pack to stay hydrated during your safari adventures. Consider adding electrolyte tablets or powder for added hydration.

Medications and First Aid:

• Pack essential medications and a basic first aid kit containing bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you may need.

Environmental Considerations:

• Choose biodegradable and eco-friendly toiletries whenever possible to minimize your environmental impact during your safari trip.

By following these tips and packing lightweight and compact toiletries and essentials, you can ensure comfort and convenience during your safari adventure in Kenya. Remember to pack thoughtfully and prioritize items that will enhance your experience while minimizing your luggage's size and weight.

Streamlining Your Gear: Choosing the Right Backpack for Your Kenya Safari

Selecting the appropriate backpack is crucial for a comfortable and hassle-free safari adventure in Kenya. Here's some advice on choosing the right backpack, considering factors such as size, durability, and comfort:

Size Matters:

• Opt for a backpack with a capacity that suits the length and intensity of your safari trip. For shorter excursions, a daypack (20-30 liters) may suffice, while longer trips may require a larger backpack (40-70 liters).
• Consider the amount of gear and personal items you'll need to carry and choose a backpack with enough space to accommodate them without being overly bulky.

Durability:

• Look for a backpack made from durable materials such as ripstop nylon or canvas, which can withstand rugged terrain and rough handling.
• Check the quality of the stitching, zippers, and other hardware to ensure they can withstand the rigors of travel and outdoor adventures.

Comfort Features:

• Prioritize comfort by choosing a backpack with padded shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and a waist belt. These features help distribute weight evenly and reduce strain on your shoulders and back.
• Adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit of the backpack to your body size and shape, enhancing comfort during long hours of wear.

Accessibility:

• Consider the accessibility of the backpack's compartments and pockets. Look for a design that allows you to easily access your gear without having to unpack everything.
• Backpacks with multiple compartments and organizational features, such as mesh pockets and zippered compartments, can help you stay organized on the go.

Weather Resistance:

• Choose a backpack with weather-resistant or waterproof materials to protect your gear from rain, dust, and moisture.
• Consider purchasing a rain cover or waterproof liner for added protection during inclement weather conditions.

Versatility:

• Select a backpack that can transition seamlessly between safari activities and other travel adventures. A versatile backpack that can also be used for hiking, day trips, or city exploration adds value and versatility to your gear collection.

Try Before You Buy:

• If possible, try on different backpacks in person to assess their fit, comfort, and features. Walk around with the loaded backpack to test its weight distribution and comfort level.
• Alternatively, read reviews and watch video demonstrations to learn more about the backpack's performance and suitability for your needs.

By considering these factors and choosing a backpack that meets your specific requirements for size, durability, and comfort, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable safari experience in Kenya. Remember to pack thoughtfully and prioritize functionality and comfort when selecting your gear for the journey ahead.

Practical Considerations: Packing Tips for Kenya Safaris

When embarking on a safari adventure in Kenya, efficient packing is essential for ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some practical tips and advice to help you pack your belongings effectively:

Pack Light:

• Limit your luggage to essentials and avoid overpacking. Stick to versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched.
• Consider the weight restrictions of your mode of transportation, whether it's a domestic flight or a safari vehicle.

Choose the Right Bag:

• Opt for a durable and lightweight suitcase or backpack that can withstand the rigors of travel.
• Use packing cubes or compression bags to organize your belongings and maximize space.
• Pack clothing that can be layered for versatility and adaptability to changing weather conditions.
• Choose lightweight and breathable fabrics that dry quickly and can be easily washed if needed.

Multi-Purpose Items:

• Pack items that serve multiple purposes to minimize the number of things you need to bring.
• For example, a sarong can double as a towel, a shawl, or a picnic blanket.
• Pack travel-sized toiletries or consider purchasing essentials upon arrival to minimize weight and save space.
• Use solid toiletries, such as shampoo bars and solid deodorant, to avoid liquid spills.

Limit Electronics:

• Only pack essential electronics, such as a camera, smartphone, and charger. Consider leaving non-essential gadgets at home.
• Invest in a portable power bank to keep your devices charged during long days of exploring.

Pack Snacks:

• Bring lightweight and non-perishable snacks to keep you fueled during game drives and excursions.
• Avoid packing bulky or heavy snacks that take up unnecessary space.
• Leave some extra space in your luggage for souvenirs and gifts you may purchase during your trip.
• Consider packing a foldable duffel bag for additional storage on the return journey.

By following these practical packing tips, you can maximize luggage space, minimize weight, and ensure a hassle-free safari experience in Kenya. Remember to pack thoughtfully and prioritize items that will enhance your comfort and enjoyment throughout your journey.

Making Your Flight to Kenya More Comfortable

To make your flight to Kenya easier, consider packing the following items:

Travel Pillow and Blanket: A comfortable travel pillow and lightweight blanket can help you rest during long flights, ensuring you arrive in Kenya feeling refreshed.

Noise-Canceling Headphones: Block out cabin noise and enjoy your favorite music, movies, or podcasts with noise-canceling headphones for a more peaceful flight experience.

Snacks and Hydration: Pack healthy snacks such as nuts, granola bars, and fruit to keep hunger at bay during the flight. Additionally, bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the journey.

Entertainment: Bring a tablet, e-reader, or portable gaming device loaded with movies, books, or games to keep yourself entertained during the flight.

Essential Toiletries: Pack travel-sized toiletries such as toothpaste, toothbrush, facial wipes, moisturizer, and lip balm to freshen up during the flight and upon arrival in Kenya.

Chargers and Adapters: Don't forget to pack chargers for your electronic devices and any necessary adapters to ensure you can charge your devices during layovers or upon arrival in Kenya.

Travel Documents: Keep all necessary travel documents such as your passport, visa, flight itinerary, and hotel reservations in a secure and easily accessible location.

Comfortable Clothing: Dress in comfortable, breathable layers for the flight, and consider bringing a lightweight jacket or sweater in case the cabin temperature becomes chilly.

Medications and First-Aid Kit: Pack any essential medications in your carry-on luggage, along with a basic first-aid kit containing bandages, pain relievers, motion sickness medication, and any other necessary items.

Travel Organizer: Use a travel organizer or pouch to keep your essentials organized and easily accessible during the flight, including your passport, boarding pass, wallet, and electronic devices.

By packing these items, you can ensure a smoother and more comfortable flight experience to Kenya.

Laundry on the Go: Tips for Managing Clothing on Your Kenya Safari

Managing laundry efficiently during your safari trip in Kenya is essential for staying fresh and comfortable throughout your adventure. Here are some strategies and tips to help you manage laundry on the go:

Pack Quick-Dry Clothing:

• Choose clothing made from quick-drying materials such as polyester or nylon blends. These fabrics are lightweight, breathable, and dry rapidly, making them ideal for safari travel.
• Avoid packing heavy cotton clothing that takes a long time to dry, as it can become cumbersome and uncomfortable, especially in humid conditions.
• Opt for clothing that can be layered to adapt to changing temperatures and weather conditions. Layering allows you to adjust your clothing as needed without having to change your entire outfit.
• Pack lightweight base layers and mid-layers that can be easily mixed and matched to create different combinations.

Pack Multi-Purpose Clothing:

• Choose versatile clothing items that can be worn multiple times before needing to be washed. Neutral-colored clothing hides dirt and stains better than bright colors, allowing you to wear them multiple times without appearing dirty.
• Consider packing convertible clothing items, such as pants that can be converted into shorts or shirts with roll-up sleeves, to maximize versatility and minimize the number of items you need to pack.

Use Portable Washing Options:

• Bring along a portable washing kit or travel-sized laundry detergent to wash small items of clothing as needed. Look for biodegradable and eco-friendly detergents that won't harm the environment.
• Use a sink, bucket, or collapsible basin to wash your clothing by hand. Agitate the clothing in soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and hang to dry in a well-ventilated area.

Utilize Laundry Services:

• Take advantage of laundry services offered by accommodations such as lodges, tented camps, and hotels. Many accommodations in Kenya offer laundry services for guests, either complimentary or for a fee.
• Plan ahead and schedule laundry days during your stay to ensure you have clean clothing for the duration of your safari trip.

Air-Dry Clothing:

• Take advantage of the warm, sunny climate in Kenya to air-dry your clothing. Hang wet clothing outside or in a well-ventilated area to dry naturally, avoiding direct sunlight to prevent fading.
• Consider using a clothesline or portable drying rack to hang clothing inside your accommodation or outside your tent.

By following these tips and strategies for managing laundry on the go, you can ensure that you have clean and fresh clothing throughout your safari adventure in Kenya. Remember to pack efficiently and prioritize quick-dry clothing and portable washing options to simplify your laundry routine while on safari.

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Packing for Kenya Safari. The utmost Guide

What should i pack for kenya safari.

Packing for Kenya Safari checklist? Well, can I be honest with you; the first time I went on a safari to Masai Mara National Reserve . I wore official Leather Shoes, a blue T-shirt and Black jeans. It was disaster Management, to say the least. This brings us to, what should you exactly pack for a Kenya Safari to avoid such disasters in near future?

I wouldn’t want anyone else to repeat these silly simple mistakes. This is why I`m writing this to start with.

I will also highlight what you should never pack to a Safari in Kenya. The Dos and Don’ts.

Without much ado, shall will?

Clothing- Packing for Kenya Safari.

Obviously, you will need some clad to pack for your Kenya Safari. That is why you`re here and I am going to give you the ultimate guide Keep it locked until the end.

First off, let’s start with the Don’ts.

You should never wear official shoes while going on a Kenyan Safari as I did on my first time because by the time. I was returning to my camp my feet were aching and had blisters.

It was not only uncomfortable but also mortifying. The first thing after arriving in Nairobi I got myself this Reef Voyage Boots .

They have a super-soft foam footed, expertly crafted arch support, and heel cupping which make them not your average mules. They are obviously waterproof and have a sock liner which makes them breathable. Here is a list of all Favourable Safari Shoes .

I had mentioned I wore a blue T-shirt; you should never try dark colours especially and specifically blue.

This colour attracts Tsetse fly and you will be a target for the day. As you are aware. Tsetse fly causes Trypanosomiasis or Sleeping Sickness.

The disease may have declined over the years but it is fatal if left unattended.

Please Note: You should never rock those camouflage army garments as much as you may be tempted since it is forbidden in not only Kenya but also East Africa at large.

The authorities use this kind of clothing and we have to differentiate you and them.

Well, instead wear these Khaki Shirts they complement well with the environment. Keep it beige, Grey.

Don’t pack bright colours for Kenya Safari or those flowery shirts. You can pack but keep such for the beach and not on a Safari.

Shorts/Trouser.

You can pack your jeans to Kenyan Safari only to wear at night after your game drive in the camp or when going to urban but keep it off the radar for Kenyan Safari.

For Game drives, you can do khaki shorts or trousers. Depending on Weather confirm with your Tour Agent the current weather before departure from your country.

Bags- Packing for Kenya Safari.

Is it possible to avoid Suite cases? Any bag which is not foldable or rigid square drains me no matter how many clothes am going to pack.

But since it seems impossible to stay away from them. Try to make sure your luggage doesn`t exceed 15kgs while packing for Kenya Safari.

The local craft has a maximum of 15kgs including your carry-on bags per person. Probably you’re asking what happens if you exceed the recommended weight?

Well, this will be up to the captain but again this is putting people in situations they shouldn`t be. Just pack Light.

A Backpack on your back and a duffel should be enough to take through your stay clothing. To avoid those square rigid Suit Cases this is the Best Option it is even more spacious and trendy.

Scorching sun Protections.

Africa, precisely Kenya is a sunny country and if you’re not used. You could go back home with nasty sunburns. You don`t want that right? Check out how to prevent the sun below.

Hat-Packing for Kenya Safari.

Incredible Kenya Adventures will give you a free branded Hat when you book with them. However, you can always get yours depending on your taste and liking.

Check them here . They come in handy and please don’t be lied to baseball caps will be of much help.

Sun Glasses.

When packing for Kenya Safari. Don’t forget your Sun Glasses even though you may not use them as much since you need to see clearly but they come in handy when the sun is having those reflective sunset rays. For the Sunglasses, you can try Carrera Sun Glasses .

Sun Screen Lotion .

You will need to pack a sunscreen lotion on your Kenya Safari. If you have sensitive skin you can check for SPF 50 . I use P.O Care Aloe Sun Lotion SPF 30. Face & Body and it is scentless.

Water Bottle .

Let me not lie to you, you will be thirsty here and probably you will need water all around. Please note that plastic was burned in Kenya and you`re not allowed to have those plastic water bottles inside the parks. Get yourself a recyclable Water Bottle. Only leave footprints.

Camera – Packing for Kenya Safari.

Packing for Kenya Safari? You can never afford to miss a camera. Actually, the term Safari go hand in hand with Photos.

The camera is for capturing those lasting forever memories. Imagine sitting on that verandah with your great-grandchildren showing them those kickass clicks you took while on a Safari? Wouldn’t that be incredible?

You can forget anything but not a camera. Remember it doesn`t have to be complicated you can use a simple Nikon D3500

Binoculars .

Zoom in until you can touch it. When packing for a Kenya Safari you should remember that, as much as you will be doing those game drives.

You`re not allowed to go out of the track. Meaning you will have to use a good lens and binoculars to aid you in bringing those desired images near you.

Binoculars will come in handy especially during wildebeest migration in Masai Mara.

Flash Light .

When you`re packing for Kenya Safari don`t forget this useful tool since some of the pathways in Camps are not well lit and it will be of help especially at night.

I use the USB rechargeable with magnetic battery and zoomable Super Bright LED Tactical Flashlight with Cob Sidelight, Waterproof.

You don’t need to worry about the battery problem. It only needs 3 hours to get it fully charged with Any USB port, providing up to 10 hours in low mode.

Power Bank .

Some of the camps do not have power all day and night. They will have it from 4:00 AM to around 8:00 AM then evening.

You may need to charge your phone, maybe you were streaming and the battery was drained.

A Solar Power bank will come in handy. This Solar Power Bank 30000 mAh is a wireless Portable Charger Solar Panel with External Battery which comes with a LED Flashlight. It is (Waterproof, Dustproof, Shockproof) and Compatible with iOS & Android.

Travel Adapter – Packing for Kenya Safari.

When packing for a Kenya Safari please note we use Type G Plugs in Kenya. The standard voltage is 240 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

To be on the safe side, buy a travel Adapter to fit in not only in Kenya but also around the globe.

Do you need a Covid 19 Test to Enter Kenya?

All passengers arriving and exiting Kenya must have a PCR Covid-19 negative certificate for a test done 96 hours prior to travel.

If you don’t have such a test you will be refused to board or denied entry to Kenya.

Do you have any compelling questions or clarification regards to Packing for Kenya Safari? Hit me up in the comment section.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, any successful purchase will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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The Ultimate Kenya Safari Packing Guide

To have the best safari experience Kenya has to offer, travelers must pack all the essentials. Here is the ultimate Kenya safari packing guide.

Quick Links

Recommended clothing for men and women on a kenya safari, first aid collection, gadgets for kenya safari, travel documents.

Almost topping the list of most productive African travel destinations, Kenya receives over 1 million visitors every year - thanks to the excellent experience of wildlife viewing and spectacular landscapes it offers. The Masai Mara National Reserve, which is the most popular destination in Kenya provides travelers with excellent encounters with the big cats and hosts the world's natural wonder – the Wildebeest Migration (the Great Migration). But how does one prepare for a beautiful Kenya safari experience? What must a traveler include on their packing list? A journey to Kenya is not like any other destination. What to pack for a Kenya safari depends on the reasons for the trip, budget, and activities planned. Here is the ultimate Kenya safari packing list.

Related: 11 Things Needed When Packing For Vacation (According To Our Readers)

Going on a trip to Kenya will be enjoyable if one prepares well. Although some lodgings in most of the Kenya safari destinations have laundry services, it is not guaranteed that the staff will give them back the same day. Visitors planning to explore Kenya during the rainy seasons should bring waterproof raincoats.

On sunny days, lightweight clothing is recommended. Ensure they are loose-fitting to avoid discomfort in the middle of touring Kenya's beautiful landscapes. Travelers should keep in mind that they will be wearing the clothes all day on game drives (mostly on bumpy roads) and safari walks.

For an amazing walking safari experience, clothes with neutral colors will blend well with the landscape. Dark-colored clothes attract tsetse flies while the bright-colored ones scare the wild animals away.

Pack clothes that prevent getting bitten by mosquitoes and bed bugs, as Kenya is prone to these insects. Travelers should pack long-sleeves, sweatpants, and khaki trousers for additional protection from mosquitoes.

Don't forget to carry comfortable shoes that will allow for easy walking around Kenya's landscapes. Sneakers would be more comfortable through the long periods of walking around the Kenya wilderness areas . Two pairs of footwear would be great – sneakers or any durable footwear for safari tours and sandals for moving around the lodging or campground. Pack some room slippers as not all hotels have them free for travelers. Waterproof shoes are appropriate during wet seasons.

Do not walk barefooted or sleep without a pair of socks to prevent mosquito bites. Preferably, a moisture-wicking pair of socks to avoid sweating. If there is extra clothing space, pack more clothes to avoid doing laundry on a Kenya safari. It could be stressful and uncomfortable.

Pack toothpaste and toothbrush, hand sanitizers, and deodorants. Come with an adequate supply of sunscreen if traveling during the hot seasons. Also, carry mosquito or insect repellent. Female travelers must pack adequate hygiene supplies, including pads, tampons, and panty liners in a cover bag to prevent them from dust and moisture. Other supplies such as shampoo, bathing soap, and air conditioner are always available at most lodgings, but visitors can bring their own if they wish.

Hiking is an enjoyable outdoor activity in most Kenya safari destinations, especially the Rift Valley region. It is physically demanding, which means that travelers are highly exposed to muscle pain and some injuries along the way. It is important to stay prepared for small accidents when hiking Kenya’s landscapes.

The must-have first aid resource tools on a Kenya safari include:

• Bandages. Bandages aren't supposed to miss in a Kenya safari first aid kit. The bandages help when travelers undergo injuries, including small cuts in the wilderness, dislocated joints, and sprains. Travelers should be careful when using these bandages as sometimes they can be dangerous - especially when bleeding is involved. They are to help in reducing the probability of bacterial infection. Travelers should avoid using them for a long time, and seek advanced medical attention instead.
• Water. Water is essential on a Kenya safari and is a crucial part of first aid. Other than preventing dehydration, water acts as a temperature regulator when traveling during hot seasons. Visitors can also use water to cleanse wounds.
• Painkillers. These are essential for a Kenya safari to ease pain from injuries, accidents, and some form of sickness. Please note that painkillers are only meant to reduce pain and travelers should seek advanced medication after using them.
• Anti-inflammatory ointment . Joint pains and muscle pains are common on a Kenya safari, especially when visitors go through regular trekking or hiking tours and a steep slope is involved. An anti-inflammatory ointment will prevent swelling of places with sores and also reduce pain. The anti-inflammatory ointment is great and provides an excellent Kenya safari experience in Kenya.

Preserving the beautiful moments of the Kenya safari experience is the best part of visiting this East African country. Cameras with added memory cards and recording equipment are perfect if one is looking to record every moment of the travel experience. Bring converters and enough supply of batteries to keep electronic recharged and working.

Related: 20 Gadgets That Make Travelling Easier For Parents (Thank Us Later) Travelers should not forget to pack flashlights to provide light at night when moving around the campgrounds. Pack wildlife binoculars to catch the most special moments of wildlife viewing in the wildlife hotspots in Kenya. Pack smartphones or tablets to keep in touch with family and acts as backup storage for extra photos and videos.

Visitors must produce their passports and visas for inspection at the destination by officials in charge. Copies of the itinerary, medical insurance papers, travel insurance, and return tickets are also required. A document containing details or contacts of a loved one is important in case of emergencies.

Getting prepared is an important part of having the best Kenya safari experience. Travelers must ensure they pack all the essentials and note exactly what to pack in which seasons.

Complete African Safari Packing List [Checklist and Guide]

What do you need to pack for your upcoming safari? In this guide, you’ll get the complete African safari packing list – including 4 factors to consider when packing, how to pack minimalist, and just what to include with specific recommendations. We also include things that you shouldn’t bring on your safari.

Ultimate African Safari Packing List: Checklist and Guide

An African safari is the trip of a lifetime. To help you prepare – and enjoy it to the fullest – we put together the ultimate safari packing list.

You will learn what factors are important to consider when packing. Not only that, but we give you a comprehensive list of necessities. This will help first-time safari-goers figure out what is essential and what is a luxury. Without further ado, let’s dive in!

This post is divided into four primary sections:

• Minimalist Packing for Africa: Video
• 4 Factors: Packing for Your African Safari

What to Include on Your Safari Packing List

Pack for a purpose, minimalist packing for african safari.

More reading: Travelers Guide to the Best Anti-theft Gear

4 Factors: Packing for your African Safari

It can be difficult making a safari packing list. There are so many considerations – some that you may not realize until you are in Africa.

It isn’t always that easy to pick up a piece of missing gear – sometimes it’s just not available and other times the schedule won’t allow for running errands.

The following are things to keep in mind when making your ultimate safari packing list.

Packing light is important when making your safari packing list. Always give preference to a light, soft duffle bag when compared to a hardshell suitcase. Wheeling a suitcase is not advised, and you will find it much better to use your soft-sided bag. A bag without a frame (and without wheels) fits better into vans, trucks, and small airplanes.

Primary Bag: We recommend the super-popular Bago Travel Duffle Bag . It has an 85-liter capacity and comes in 14 colors (great for each member of your party).

For your day trips, a  backpack is perfect  and it will be much easier to carry around.

Daypack:  For your daypack, we recommend the Mountaintop 40 liter backpack . Water-resistant coating and padded laptop compartment keeps important things safe. And it has an additional rain cover – perfect for your gorilla trek.

If you are going to be based out of an urban area, see if your hotel or travel agent would be willing to keep your stuff safe. Only do this if you have complete trust in the business. Many world travelers have at least one story about theft and trusting the wrong people.

Are you taking a bush plane? If so, you will face even tighter luggage weight restrictions. These small, local flights take you between different parks and camps. Bush planes are usually more convenient and faster than moving by ground. However, the size and weight limit on the plane mean there isn’t much room for luggage.

Find out how much you can have ahead of time, and tweak your safari packing list accordingly. In southern Africa, the weight limit can be as low as 41 pounds. In East Africa, it gets as light as 33 pounds. This includes carry-ons, so you will have to be selective.

Another and really important, reason to go light on your safari packing list are souvenirs. Africa is booming with shops and even malls. On the savannah, tribes, and villages will be selling unique, one-of-a-kind art. Don’t forget gifts for back home!

2. Activities

Are you going on a walking trek or an open jeep safari? Either way, temperatures change throughout the day dramatically. You may start out with a chilly pre-dawn drive, and then find yourself sweating on the afternoon walk. That’s why layers are essential, even in the height of summer!

Will you be doing other activities while you are on vacation? If so, you will need to amend your safari packing list. If trekking for gorillas , you’ll want some rain gear.

If you’ll be climbing Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania) later on your trip, you will need to bring cold weather clothes to combat the frozen temperatures at the top. Going on a safari for elephants and antelope will require sun protection gear .

3. Safari Camp, Lodge, Hotel, or Hostel

Not all of these choices will be available in every location you travel to. However, chances are you will stay at a safari camp or lodge at least one night. If you can, find out ahead of time  if your destinations have laundry service . This will help you decide how much you should pack.

Are you keen on doing your laundry at the camp or lodge? If so, there are some convenient on the go laundry bags you can pack. For those on a budget, pack a length of lightweight rope and detergent. Fortunately, most legitimate camps offer laundry services where you don’t have to lift a finger.

4. Planning

Planning is an unfortunate necessity of having a fun, enjoyable vacation. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is waiting until the last minute to make your safari packing list. The weight adds up fast, and the last thing you want to do is find better gear at the last minute.

Even if you do forget something, chances are you will be able to find it in the city where the safari departs. Besides, many guides want to make sure you have everything you need.

So, you may even be forced to purchase something that will add extra weight. Fortunately, this can be avoided by planning ahead.

More reading: How to Choose the Best Portable Water Filter

In this section, we’ll consider the following 9 categories.

They include safari clothing, footwear, sun protection, insect repellent, technology, health, personal toiletries, and other items.

More reading: Is Uganda Safe? Guide to Water, Crime, Disease, Sun

Clothing for a Safari

A safari is a casual event, so there is no need to overdress. Unless you plan on hitting up the nightlife in Kampala , leave your fancy clothes off your safari packing list! Everyone keeps it casual even at the most upscale lodges.

Light, loose clothing is recommended for safari wear. You will stay comfortable in the sun and dry out quickly in the occasional rainstorm.

However, don’t forget about the early morning cool down. You will want some pants and a long sleeve top to keep you snug. Although nights around camp include a fire, you may still need some extra layers. The important thing is, to be honest with yourself.

You will definitely want to cover up when the mosquitoes are at their worst during dusk and dawn. Technically, the lighter the suitcase the better, but you also need to balance weight with comfort. Don’t forget, many lodges have blankets to pass out in the cold evening.

The color of your clothing is another extremely important factor of your safari packing list.

Neutral shades are a must. You want anything that will camouflage you: shades of green, brown, olive, khaki, and beige are all acceptable and even encouraged!

3 Types of Clothing to Avoid Like the Plague:

• Don’t bring bright-colored clothing. These are only good for scaring the animals and angering your fellow companions. Remember, this is the trip of a lifetime. Even if this is your 100th safari, be respectful of others.
• Do not bring American T-shirts. These are the tees with logos and writing. You will stick out like a sore thumb. Additionally, leave the short shorts at home – you will want the extra protection in the wild.
• Don’t bring clothes that are dark blue or black. The two colors attract tsetse flies like no other, and these biting insects will make you miserable during a long safari day. These insects can bite right through your clothing, even jeans – which they are undeniably attracted to. Not even the most potent insect repellant will keep them away. Tsetse flies are also dangerous, as they can transmit African sleeping sickness (African trypanosomiasis).

Clothing Packing List:

• Swimsuit (1): most lodges and camps have a pool
• Lightweight fleece or jacket (1): For late nights and early mornings
• Scarf (1):  good to protect your face from blowing debris. Something like this moisture-wicking scarf by Kingree – multifunctional headwear, functions as a headband, scarf, dust mask, balaclava, and hairband. It comes in 35 different color patterns – great for men and women.
• Sports bra (2); for the ladies
• Money belt (1): This is always a great idea when traveling – especially internationally. This money belt by Alpha Keeper is one of the most popular travel belts and it comes in 7 colors and includes RFID blocking sleeves.
• PJ’s: You’ll want to be comfortable so you can get a good night’s sleep.
• Zip-off pants (2): Convertible pants save space and are super convenient. Start the cool morning with full pants and as the day warms up, remove the zip-off legs. These Columbia convertible pants ( mens and womens ) offer UPF 50 sun protection and convert to shorts with 10″ inseam.
• Long sleeve shirts (2): With sleeves that can be rolled up. Similar to the convertible pants, a long sleeve shirt with button tabs (for rolling up sleeves) are great for cooler mornings hot days. These Columbia Bahama shirts ( mens and womens ) have UPF 30 and are made with quick-dry fabric.
• Short-sleeved shirt (4): These are great for layering. Choose a breathable fabric to keep cool and dry. These Vapor Apparel ( mens and womens ) are UPF 50+ sun protection.
• Socks (4): Similar to the shirts above, you’ll want some moisture-wicking fabric to keep your feet dry and cool. These performance Bering socks ( mens and womens ) feature breathable mesh, moisture-wicking, and reinforced heel and toe.
• Underwear (4):  Here are some suggestions for underwear for outdoor activities .
• Sandals: Flip flops or close-toed sports sandals – to wear around camp at night

Pro Tip: On the plane, wear one pair of safari attire. This will save room in your luggage, and you can wash it later.

The best footwear to bring depends on what kind of safari you are taking.

Walking Safari / Trekking: If you are going to be mostly participating in walking safaris, you will want to prioritize comfort and stability. Hiking boots would be perfect for this type of situation.

Driving Safari: On the other hand, Jeep safaris calls for closed-toed sports sandals and hiking shoes. A pair of sandals may not be such a bad idea for walking around the bush camp. However, they are not necessary if there isn’t enough room or weight left.

If you’re going on a gorilla trek you’ll likely encounter wet conditions. Here are the best shoes for hiking in water .

Sun Protection

A safari means you will be spending a significant amount of time outside. This requires good protection from a more intense sun than most of us are used to. No matter walking or riding in a vehicle, this is a must!

• Sunglasses: The sun on your safari has the potential to be brutal! The best way to protect yourself is to buy a quality pair of polarizing sunglasses. This pair of Torege Polarized Sunglasses comes with 5 interchangeable lenses (including block polarized,  transparent and yellow). They are UV400, blocking 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
• Safari sun hat: You won’t just want any hat. Try to find something that will protect your face, neck, and ears. Additionally, look for a head covering that has a neck strap so it doesn’t fly off as your Jeep flies across the grasslands. Don’t find out the hard way that there is actually a reason behind silly safari hats! Dena and I love our Outdoor Research and Coolibar hats. Here’s a safari hat you might consider: Coolibar UPF 50+ Wide Brim Hat ( mens and womens ). Here’s our full guide for the best safari hats .
• Sunblock: The higher the SPF, the better. As stated before, most of us aren’t used to being so close to the equator. The sun can really take a toll on our skin, and sunburn or sun poisoning is an uncomfortable alternative.
• Long sleeve shirts and long pants: These will protect you from sunburn and insects! Yes, these were already mentioned. Aside from your personal comfort, the right shirt and pants will protect you from the harsh sun

Insect Repellent

• Mosquito netting – I can almost promise your bush camp will provide mosquito netting. However, find out ahead of time, and make 100% sure. This is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself from mosquito-borne illnesses.
• Picaridin (20%) – This powerful and safe bug spray ingredient keeps biting insects away. You can even put it directly on your skin! Outside of the United States, Picaridin is known as KBR 3032 and icaridin.
• OLE (30%) – Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) is featured in Repel Naturals and Off! Botanicals among others. However, it is not recommended for children under 3.
• PMD – Para-menthane-diol (PMD) is another botanical bug repellent. Sometimes it is used in conjunction with OLE.
• 2-undecanone and IR3535 – Both of these are man-made, and neither lasts as long as the first 3. However, they are relatively safe and can be combined with other products on this list.

Here’s how to keep biting insects away (naturally).

• Camera:  A basic point-and-shoot will do the trick. However, the better the camera the better photos. Seeing as this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip, you may want to purchase something with better quality. Many people choose to bring a DSLR. Make sure you carry your camera in a case because a safari is not exactly a clean adventure! Don’t forget your spare memory card! Here’s our guide to choosing the best safari camera .
• Batteries: If you are using a camera, be sure to add extra batteries to your safari packing list. This is so important! Batteries are a true commodity out in the savannah, so if you don’t want to run out, you better bring extra!
• Cell phone: Yes, bring your cell phone. This goes double if you don’t have a tablet or a designated separate camera. Mobile phones are taking better and better photos. There are even monoculars you can purchase to increase your phone’s natural zoom. Monoculars like this 12 x 50 model by Cosbity that is compatible with most current phone models. These can turn your cell phone into a powerful zoom camera.
• Electrical adaptor: Although most camps provide universal plug converters, it is a good idea to bring one just in case. You may be staying at hotels or other places that are not as thoughtful.
• Chargers:  If you remember anything, remember your chargers. Most of the technology that’s useful on a safari requires charging. Instead of bringing an electrical adaptor, consider a solar charger. This is not only more environmentally friendly, but you will be able to charge multiple devices from the same platform at the same time! Here’s a nice set of solar panels for charging phones and cameras.
• Tablet: Basically anything you can use to read, play games, and otherwise entertain yourself in any downtime. Usually, print books are a go-to, but they might weigh too much for your safari packing list.
• Yellow Fever Health Card – This is necessary for some African nations (like Tanzania). You have to get these from your doctor, so don’t wait until the last minute! Aside from vaccinations, don’t forget your necessary medications. According to the CDC , yellow fever vaccination is only required for entering Uganda if you are traveling from a country with risk of YFV transmission and are a minimum of 1 year of age.
• First aid kit:  Out in the African bush, the nearest town could be hours or even days away. That means catching a cold could turn into a miserable experience. That is why it’s important to pack some cough drops, Sudafed, diarrhea medication, aspirin, Dramamine, and allergy medication. Avoid bringing a real first aid kit, as most lodges and guides have their own. Simply think about what you may need if you start feeling sick.
• Prescriptions: Before you get on the plane, make sure you have all of your necessary prescriptions. You may even want to ask the doctor for Cipro. This medication will help in times of intense stomach pain. Everyone’s body reacts differently when exposed to different microbes, and you won’t want to stay behind due to a sick stomach. Furthermore, check with your tour company to see if malaria medication should be on your list.
• Hand sanitizer:  Why not protect yourself as much as humanly possible? Getting sick on vacation sucks, but getting sick on a safari could be disastrous. There are times when clean water for hand washing will not be available.
• Sleep aids– A good night’s sleep is important to fully enjoy your time on the safari. Lack of sleep can lead to a bad attitude and eye fatigue. If you know you have problems falling asleep or staying asleep in new places, bring what you need. This could be melatonin, Z-Quil, Ambien, or anything else that’s a legal sleep aid. Also, bring earplugs. Hippos like to snore quite loudly!

Personal Toiletries

Whenever possible, use travel-sized containers to save on weight and room.

• Shampoo / Conditioner (or all-in-1)
• Toothbrush / Toothpaste
• Moisturizer
• Sanitary products
• Contact solution

Other Items to Consider

• Cash (in local currency):  There are no ATM’s in the bush, but there are things to buy with cash. Furthermore, most places in the backcountry do not have credit card scanners. You will also need cash to tip the guides after your awesome safari! Make sure to check the country’s policy on money. Some places only accept US dollars minted from 2006 on. That’s because all older bills are easier to forge.  Learn more about currency in Uganda .
• Waterproof bag:  Light and compact, a waterproof bag can come in handy when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Even if you have dustproof and waterproof equipment, the rain will turn any dust into mud. A waterproof bag allows you to stick your stuff inside for the duration of the moisture!

• Glasses:  Unfortunately, the conditions can sometimes get too dry for the average contact wearer. That is why it is important for contact lens wearers to bring their glasses.
• Water bottle:  Some camps provide water bottles. However, make sure ahead of time. If you bring your own, you can use it in the airports!

If you want to make a positive difference, think about adding a purpose to your safari packing list. These projects help local communities and are affiliated with many different safari lodges and bush camps.

Pack for a Purpose usually needs medications, clothing, school supplies, and feminine products. Check out their website for more information, and to see what safari businesses are currently giving. The site also includes suggestions and tips for packing these products.

Here’s more about  Pack for a Purpose: Africa . And here are the eight  Ugandan lodges and safaris that participate.

What’s on Your Ultimate African Safari Packing List?

Hopefully, we have demystified the ins and outs of packing for a safari. With proper guidance, making a safari packing list is not at all difficult.

The main things to remember are to do your homework and to put together a plan. As long as you are prepared, you will have a great time!

Did we forget something? Have a packing tip? Let us know in the comments!

Hi, I'm Dena Haines . And I'm co-founder of Storyteller Travel . I love to cover food, animals, and destinations around the world.

I also blog about photography at Storyteller Tech .

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This is one of the most elaborate and helpful travel guide on packing for a safari, i have read.

Thank you Bryan

Thanks Mamerito!

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What You Need on Your Packing List for Safari in Kenya

Safari travel is supposed to be exhilarating, breathtaking, and unforgettable. However, if it is your first safari experience, it can also be stressful beforehand . There will be an overwhelming number of items on your packing list for safari in Kenya.

This article on what to pack for Kenya safaris will give you all the information you need to know. You will learn what is the best duffel bag for African Safaris, safari luggage restrictions , and some very important items to pack for a safari in Kenya, such as documents, cash and toiletries.

I went on safari to Kenya in October 2022, which means I can share with you all of my learned experiences on what to pack for safaris. In addition, I also gathered information online, from my safari organisers, plus from safari expert’s presentations working as a luxury travel consultant.

If you are looking for information for related more specifically to clothing for safari, read this article on the best clothes to wear on safari in Kenya . You may be unfamiliar with how a safari works ; therefore, you should read about what to expect on safari in Kenya .

This article will help you decide whether to book Nairobi airport meet and assist services and read about seeing orphan elephants at Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi.

If you are considering a Nairobi National Park tour , read about it here, and discover the best hotels in Nairobi for a comfortable stay.

How to Pack for a Safari in Africa

Packing for a safari in Africa is not as straightforward as packing for any other type of holiday. You must follow strict rules regarding luggage limits and contents.

Read on to learn about the best method for packing for Kenya trips and safaris.

Soft-Sided Luggage

Most African safaris involve flying to one international airport to start the trip, followed by flights on smaller safari planes to get to the lodges.

In these smaller aircraft, you must pack your belongings in safari duffel bags because the luggage compartments are small, and the bags must be able to be manipulated into them.

In addition, when you arrive at the airstrip in your safari camp, you must fit your luggage into the safari vehicle. Therefore, the bags must be easy to move around and fit into smaller spaces.

Avoid bringing a hard-shell suitcase to the safari lodges because it is heavier and less practical.

The adjacent image shows the small luggage compartment on a safari plane.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes will be handy on the safari. You will need to pack up your luggage every few days on safari and be able to quickly find clothes to wear at 5 or 6 am, which means your belongings need to stay organised.

Some safari lodges do not provide you with a chest of drawers for your clothing. However, there will be some hanging space and perhaps a tabletop to use.

As a result, it is good to use your packing cubes like drawers.

I arrange my packing cubes by the type of clothing, such as all t-shirts, shorts, and trousers in separate cubes.

• Packing Cubes from Amazon
• Packing Cubes from Calpak
• Packing Cubes from Osprey

Luggage Tags

Make sure you have a luggage tag on all your bags.

Firstly, it will make it easier to identify your bag on luggage belts. Plus, if your luggage gets lost, airport staff can locate it more easily.

Secondly, it is helpful to have labels on your bags for safari lodges so that staff know which bag belongs in which room and can take them there.

Lastly, you should have a luggage tag on your suitcase if you put the bag in storage at Nairobi Wilson Airport so that you can verify which bag belongs to you.

Check out luggage tags on Amazon here

Safari Luggage Restrictions

One key thing to consider when considering what to pack for Africa safari destinations is the weight restrictions because there are strict weight limits in place.

It is important to understand that the reason for the size dimension limitations is that the luggage compartments are small openings on the side or base of the plane.

On some planes, the luggage compartments are genuinely only wide and tall enough to slide a bag in. Consequently, if your baggage size exceeds the limits, there is a risk it will not fit on the plane.

In Kenya, two airlines that fly domestically to safari airstrips are Air Kenya and SafariLink. These airlines have different luggage allowances.

• Safarilink restrictions : 15 kg per person including your main duffel bag and hand baggage (all bags must be soft-sided bags). On the Safarilink website, the maximum dimension of all bags is 70cm x 60cm x 30cm. 
• Air Kenya restrictions : 15 kg per person including duffel bag and hand baggage (must be soft-sided bags). The maximum dimensions of checked baggage are 60cm x 45cm x 33cm. The maximum dimensions of hand luggage are 53cm x 30cm x 23cm.

Make sure to check your own airline’s regulations to verify that you take the right size bag. The organisers of my safari advised that our baggage should be no larger than 62cm x 30cm x 20cm; therefore, this is the limit we went by. 

If you are bringing camera equipment , there will likely be a weight restriction. The equipment should fit into your hand baggage and not exceed the baggage weight limit along with the rest of your belongings.

When checking in at Nairobi Wilson airport, the airport staff weighed our duffel bags to be checked in as our family of 5 and checked the weight of all our bags together. We could compensate if one of our bags were heavier than the other. Although the staff did not weigh our hand luggage at Wilson Airport.

Luggage Storage for Kenya Safari

If your safari involves flying to and from Nairobi Wilson Airport on SafariLink or Air Kenya, you may use the complimentary luggage storage at the airport.

Your safari may involve several safari locations, such as Masai Mara in Kenya or Serengeti in Tanzania. In addition, you could have planned a post-safari relaxation at a beach destination in East Africa or some wine tasting in South Africa. As a result, you may need to bring more items than will fit in the safari travel bag alone.

Thus, you can pack some heavier and unnecessary items for the safari in a separate suitcase without worrying if it exceeds the limits.

If you use the Wilson Airport Luggage Storage, ensure your suitcases have visible name tags.

You may also feel better locking your suitcase and sticking an Air Tag inside it. I use an Air Tag every time I travel and it helped tremendously when my luggage got lost in Toronto Airport at Christmas.

• Check prices for AirTags on Amazon

Here are some locks to purchase on Amazon if your safari suitcase does not already have a lock built in.

Alternatively, if you are looking for a hard-shell suitcase for the rest of your travel to Africa, consider purchasing a Herschel suitcase. The luggage from Herschel, which I own, has TSA locks on the zip.

• Buy your Herschel Suitcase here

Luggage: What to Take on Safari in Kenya?

As it has already been made clear – the best luggage for safari trips is soft-sided. Suitable options for soft-sided baggage include a duffel bag, a gym bag, or a camping backpack. Ideally, there will be no wheels on the bag.

The bags will get dusty from being on the dirt, in the base of an aircraft, and inside a safari vehicle. So make sure the bag is sturdy and not too precious. You will probably want to wipe your bag down when you get home.

A common way of travelling to Africa is with a duffel bag and a wheeled hard-shell suitcase (the latter going in storage while on the safari). You can carry a duffel bag and a backpack as hand luggage on most airlines. Then you can check in the hard-shelled suitcase.

Carrying your duffel bag as hand luggage may offer some relief in case you are worried about your suitcase getting lost in transit.

Alternatively, it may be more comfortable travelling lighter while navigating the airport. If you are travelling premium or business class, you are usually permitted to check in two suitcases.

Best Luggage for Safari in Kenya

One of the most important recommendations for this packing list for Kenya safari trips is the luggage.

The following options would be suitable for those travelling on Safarilink or Air Kenya planes. These duffel bags are all either within the dimensions of 62 cm x 30 cm x 20 cm, or they would be fine if the bag is not too full.

Osprey Daylite Duffel 45L

Based on the dimensions given by my safari company (62cm x 30cm x 20cm), I ordered the Osprey Daylite Duffel 45L and it was the perfect safari bag.

The dimensions of the Osprey duffle bag are 53cm x 36cm x 24cm.

This is a fraction too large according to the dimensions I was provided; however, I knew if I did not fill the bag too full, it would be able to squash down and fit the appropriate measurements.

I loved the different compartments on the bag. Plus, I liked that you could carry the bag as a holdall or wear it like a backpack using the shoulder straps.

You can purchase the Osprey Daylite Duffle from various shops online; however, I bought mine Amazon because the shipping was quicker and there was more availability of colours.

I use this bag all the time for other weekend trips where I am taking only hand luggage on the plane.

• Check prices for Osprey Daylite Duffel on Amazon
• Check prices for Osprey Daylite Duffel on Go Outdoors

North Face Base Camp Duffel (small)

I already own the North Face base camp duffle in medium and large. These bags were extremely helpful when I was moving back from Ontario, Canada to England. However, sadly the size I own were too big to bring as safari travel bags.

The small version of the duffle bag from North Face is a great size for those travellers flying on Air Kenya, since its dimensions are 33cm x 53cm x 33cm. As a reminder, Air Kenya’s max dimensions are 60cm x 45cm x 33cm.

Not only is the North Face duffel bag a resistant material that will handle all terrains and weather thrown at it. It is also easy to carry as a backpack and can fit plenty in without popping the zip (I am talking from experience).

• Buy North Face Base Camp Duffel (UK)
• Buy North Face Base Camp Duffel (North America)

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

I saw many people with this bag; therefore, it needs to be on this packing list for safari in Kenya.

This bag is larger than the smallest requirements, but would fit if the bag is not packed to its fullest.

• Buy Patagonia Duffel from Amazon
• Buy Patagonia Duffel from Selfridges

Lifeventure Packable Duffle 70L

This is a much cheaper alternative and easily packed into another suitcase when empty. Therefore, it could be an option for those needing a low-cost solution that is great at being manipulated into small spaces.

However, be aware that is a very flimsy bag because the material is quite light and thin. The material is also not as water-resistant as the above recommended options.

• Check price of Lifeventure Packable Duffle on Ellis Brigham

Kenya Safari Packing List

Plastic bags are forbidden in Kenya. If an airport official searches your bag and finds any, the bags will be confiscated. Therefore, you should ensure you do not bring any into the country.

You will need to find alternative options for the items that you would usually pack in plastic bags.

Plastic Bag Alternatives

• Buy wash bags from Amazon (USA)
• Buy wash bags from Amazon (UK)
• Buy shoe bags from Amazon (USA)
• Buy shoe bags from Amazon (UK)
• Buy laundry bags from Amazon (USA)
• Buy laundry bags from Amazon (UK)
• Reusable silicone food bags – these work well for liquids that may be at risk of leaking.

Safari Essentials: What to Bring on Safari in Kenya

Here are a few items you will need to bring while on game drives.

• Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack – the best day bag for safaris
• Buy Nikon Binoculars on Amazon USA
• Buy Nikon Binoculars on Amazon UK
• Buy Olympus binoculars on Amazon UK
• Buy Bushnell Binoculars on Amazon UK
• Buy Pentax Binoculars on MEC (Canada)
• Buy Fujifilm Camera from Amazon USA
• Buy Fujifilm Camera from Amazon UK
• Camera lens (rental)
• Hand sanitiser
• Bandana for dust
• Sunglasses (and a sunglasses lanyard to wear them around your neck is handy) 
• Night vision binoculars – you may consider investing in a pair of binoculars specifically for night use. The hotel manager at Sala’s Camp showed us his pair of night vision goggles and it was incredible what you could see .

Toiletries: Kenya Packing List

When packing for safari in Kenya, toiletries are some of the most essential items on your list.

It is best to have a wide range of medicines and toiletries to cover all scenarios. I used almost all the toiletries that I packed .

• Imodium or anti-diarrhoea tablets – it is quite common to get an upset stomach from water usage or your malaria tablets
• Antihistamine – if your bites usually swell up, ensure you get strong tablets. Benadryl in US/Canada or Piriton in the UK
• O.R.S Hydration Tablets ( Buy tablets on Amazon UK )
• SIS Electrolyte Tablets ( Buy tablets on Amazon UK )
• Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets ( Buy tablets on Amazon Canada – Nuun also available in USA)
• OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent Aerosol (Available in USA & Canada)
• Jungle Formula Maximum Insect Repellent Spray with DEET (Available in UK)
• Manual toothbrush (electric versions may run out of charge)
• Hand sanitiser (for after going to a bush toilet on a game drive)
• Antiseptic ointment – Savlon for the UK or Polysporin/Neosporin for Canada/US
• Non-drowsy motion sickness tablets – for the small planes
• Paracetamol/ibuprofen – you never know if you will feel unwell, so it is best to come prepared
• Simple Cleanser or the Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
• Simple Toner or Indie Lee CoQ-10 Toner
• The Ordinary moisturiser or BYOMA moisturising gel cream to keep your face hydrated
• La Roche Posay face sunscreen or Ultra Violette Extreme Screen for spf

What to Bring on Safari for Malaria Prevention?

• Long-sleeved clothes (jacket or long-sleeve shirt, trousers, and long socks for evening meals)
• Mosquito repellent – lotion or spray
• Malaria tablets – you will need to see a travel clinic for this
• Avoid scented moisturisers and perfumes
• Some malaria tablets can give you side effects, such as vivid dreams, upset stomach, and headaches, but they are still worth taking.

Learn about safari clothing you should bring to Kenya .

What Camera to Take on Safari?

The question of what camera to bring on Safari depends on what camera you already own. If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, then you should bring it. These cameras will take superior photos than your mobile phone will.

If you do not own a more advanced camera, I would wholeheartedly recommend getting hold of one – whether you buy, rent, or borrow one from a friend. You will see the difference in the quality of photos from your phone easily – especially if you have a decent lens to use with it.

When choosing between a DSLR or a mirrorless camera, a mirrorless camera is the better choice for a Kenyan safari. 

Mirrorless cameras are physically smaller, so they take up less space in your hand luggage and they are much lighter. But the image quality between the cameras is similar.

I borrowed a Nikon D700 (DSLR camera) and rented a Nikon AF-S 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6 lens. If you are unfamiliar with lenses and you would like to rent one, you should contact a lens rental company because they will tell you what lens is compatible with your camera.  

The Nikon D700 that I used was heavy and bulky, which was not ideal due to my limited baggage allowance. Additionally, wearing the Nikon D700 camera was a strain on my neck while I took photos of animals on game drives.

However, the benefit of a DSLR camera is that it can be more affordable than a mirrorless camera. Plus, I was grateful to be able to borrow a high-quality camera for my safari in Kenya.

Therefore, if you can choose what camera to bring on safari, I would suggest bringing a mirrorless camera with a decent lens. Aim for a lens with a 300mm focal length. This option will give you good enough zoom to capture pictures of animals slightly further away.

If you are looking to purchase a camera, I would recommend buying the Fujifilm X-T30 II . It is a light and portable camera and still takes incredible pictures.

• Check reviews for Fujifilm X-T30 II on Amazon US
• Check reviews for Fujifilm X-T30 II on Amazon UK

Electronics: Safari Packing List Kenya

• Memory cards with sufficient space for anticipated photos – I brought memory cards with me with 32 GB and 16 GB of space and took around 1,000 photos on my camera and 1,000 photos and videos on my phone
• Back-up camera batteries (always keep one fully charged)
• AirTags (peace of mind for your luggage)
• UK 3-prong adapters for plugs (the hotels and lodges I visited had USB plugs, but do not count on that) – so you may need a US to UK adapter
• Mirrorless or DSLR camera
• Camera lens cleaning solution (the lens will get dusty while out on game drives)
• Microfiber cloth (to wipe the camera lens)
• Portable charger (helpful for travel days when your phone battery gets low)
• Hard drive – you may want to make sure you have a hard drive at home so that when you return from your trip you can save a copy of your photos

Travel Essentials for Flights

• Surgical face masks (not fabric – some domestic airlines still require this)
• Book for entertainment
• Pre-download some films on an iPad
• Noise-cancelling headphones
• Portable phone charger
• Travel insurance – UK residents, check out Travel Supermarket , a comparison site to help you get the best deal

Documents for Travel to Kenya

When packing for Kenya safaris, you must stay on top of several admin tasks, including applying for visas, getting travel vaccinations, and purchasing some foreign currency.

You must also check that your passport has at least six months remaining before expiration following the date you arrive in Kenya.

Vaccinations for Kenya

Make sure you visit a travel clinic around eight weeks before your travels.

You may need to have enough time to get several doses of a vaccine or to make sure there is enough availability for appointment slots. There was a shortage of yellow fever vaccinations in England before my trip.

It is up to your medical professional which vaccines are suitable for your needs and the type of trip you are going on. Although I received Hep A & B, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Polio, and the Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis vaccine.

Keep checking the regulations when visiting Kenya. My family and I needed to have our covid-19 vaccinations validated before boarding on the Global Haven website .

Be aware of what visa you need for Kenya and other African countries you will be visiting. The following information is purely what I arranged and experienced.

Please check your requirements before travelling.

If you are entering Kenya once, you will need a single-entry visa.

However, if you will be entering Kenya twice on the same trip, like we did, you will need two single-entry visas – not a multiple-entry visa . We booked round-trip flights to Nairobi and during the trip, we left Kenya to go to Zambia.

Pay very close attention when applying for your e-visa. Your e-visa should be approved online within a few days. If you have not had an email showing your approval, or you cannot see your approval status on the online portal, there is likely a problem with your application.

The immigration website will not tell you if your application has been rejected, it will say that the application is still in process.

One of my family members applied for a single-entry visa but noticed the visa had still not been approved three weeks later. She was unable to get hold of anyone from the immigration office by phone or email.

Luckily, our safari company had a contact at the airport who could tell us why the application was not approved. Otherwise, we would have had to buy a new visa for an additional USD 50.

Try your best to get your application approved first-time because they may ask for a monetary favour instead of you buying a new visa, which is what we experienced.

The first reason the application was not approved was that the photo on the application was unsuitable. The image should be passport-style, meaning you are not allowed to smile in the picture and you must be facing straight at the camera.

Secondly, she had not put her middle name in the application even though the passport shows a middle name.

Once your application has been approved, make sure you print off a copy of the visa and have it handy when you pass through immigration in Kenya.

You can use USD or Kenyan Shillings (the local currency) in Kenya.

You must ensure the USD notes you bring to Kenya are dated after 2000 . Some countries, such as Zambia require USD notes minted after 2007. Check the notes while you are at the desk receiving your money.

I wrongly assumed that the cash we exchanged back home would be dated correctly, and we did not realise we had several notes that were minted in the 1990s until we were in Kenya. They are very strict about accepting USD notes from after 2000.

If you are from the UK or somewhere with an unfavourable USD exchange rate, I would suggest getting plenty of Kenyan Shillings. If you purchase souvenirs or other retail items in Shillings, it may be a cheaper rate than buying souvenirs in USD.

Keep the receipt of your currency conversion because customs in Kenya may want to see it.

It is important to have many smaller USD notes, such as $5 notes.

Gratuities for Safaris

Kenya is a tipping-based country – most services expect a tip. Therefore, you will need to bring enough cash to cover this.

There are usually guidelines on how much to tip for safari lodges. For example, you should tip your driver-guide and your spotter individually, and you can give them the tip money at the end of your stay at that camp.

You can tip the rest of the staff from the lodge at the end, separately to your driver-guide and spotter. There is usually an envelope that you can leave in a box in the main area of the camp.

The suggested tipping amount for my safari lodges was:

• USD 15 per driver-guide per day
• USD 10 per spotter per day
• USD 25 per room per day for general staff
• USD 5 per spa treatment

In addition to cash for tipping, you should also bring some money for souvenirs.

Try to estimate the amount of cash you will need for tips, any cash payments, plus some souvenirs – then bring more than you calculated . You may experience that there are always extra people to tip than expected and plenty of opportunities for buying souvenirs.

Sometimes you can pay for items with a Visa credit card; however, many establishments will not accept a Mastercard or American Express.

What Not to Pack for Safari in Kenya

Do not bring too much makeup because it is dark at night, and you do not have much time to get ready in the mornings or evenings.

For those who usually wear make-up, I suggest getting eyelashes tinted and eyebrows laminated if you want a natural look while on safari.

Additionally, you do not need to bring formal evening outfits for dinner, even on a luxury safari. A clean change of clothes will suffice. Also, do not bring precious jewellery.

Leave your clothing with a camouflage pattern at home – it is illegal to wear this pattern in parts of East Africa.

Read this article for more information on what to wear on safari in Kenya . It covers all the clothes for safari in Kenya required, plus it discussed things to take on safari in Kenya while physically on game drives.

Some luxury safari camps provide amenities to use during your stay, which means you can cut down on some of your items to pack.

While on my Masai Mara safari, my accommodation provided hairdryers, torches/flashlights, fleece ponchos, and a reusable water bottle; therefore, I did not need to bring these items.

You should remember that plastic bags are forbidden in Kenya. So, bring reusable bags for dirty laundry and shoes.

Unless having your laptop is essential, I would advise you to leave it at home. You do not want to worry about it being stolen. Bring an iPad or tablet that you can watch films or episodes on when on planes or without a good Wi-Fi connection.

It may be better to bring a manual toothbrush and razor because you may not be able to charge your electric bathroom devices while on safari or in other hotels.

Advice for a Packing List for Kenya Safari

Do not leave packing for Kenya until the last minute because you may forget something essential.

I found that the best luggage for African safaris was a combination of my Osprey Daylite Duffle for the safari portion of the trip, combined with my Herschel Supply Co. hard-shell suitcase for the remainder of the items kept in storage.

Here is a summary of must-have items to help you remember what to pack for a safari in Kenya.

• Documents (visa, passport, vaccination records)
• Anti-diarrhoea tablets
• Cash in USD and/or Kenyan Shillings
• Long-sleeved clothing
• Plenty of underwear (the camp laundry service will not wash women’s underwear)
• Hat (baseball cap or wide-brimmed)
• Clothing in beige, khaki, grey or green (including a jacket to stay warm)
• Sports bra (ladies will appreciate this)
• Flip flops (they will come in handy to throw on after your morning game drive to go to lunch)
• Bandana (to prevent dust on the face)

FAQ – Kenya Packing List

What can you not bring into kenya.

Kenya has implemented a strict ban on single-use plastic bags. The ban is part of the government’s efforts to reduce plastic pollution and promote environmental sustainability. As a result, anyone traveling to Kenya is prohibited from bringing any plastic bags into the country, such as duty-free shopping bags.

What luggage to take on safari?

When packing for a safari, go for duffel bags or soft-sided suitcases because they’re light and fit easily in safari vehicles. Leave your hard-sided suitcases with wheels in storage in your city of arrival or departure.

A water-resistant bag is essential for protecting your belongings during unpredictable weather and terrain. Remember to bring a lightweight daypack to carry important items such as cameras, binoculars, sunscreen, and insect repellent during game drives.

What is the Safarilink luggage allowance?

Safarilink allows each passenger a maximum of 15 kilograms of baggage, including carry-on bags, on their domestic flights.

It is recommended to pack using soft bags rather than hard-sided suitcases as they are easier to store in the plane’s limited luggage compartments.

Additional bags or overweight luggage will incur an extra fee.

What is the best duffel for safari travel?

The best duffel for safari travel should be lightweight, durable, and spacious enough to hold your belongings. Look for one made of sturdy materials that can withstand the harsh conditions of a safari.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel is a popular choice. It’s made of waterproof material, has ample storage space, and multiple compartments to organise your items. It also comes with padded shoulder straps for easy carrying.

What to pack for safari in Kenya?

Opt for soft-sided luggage like duffel bags, as they are easier to manipulate into smaller safari planes and vehicles.

Remember to pack necessary toiletries, clothing in neutral colors like beige, khaki, grey, or green. Avoid bringing plastic bags, camouflage clothing, precious jewellery, and unnecessary makeup.

What are some travel essentials in Kenya for safaris?

Binoculars, camera equipment, insect repellent, and cash in USD or Kenyan Shillings for tipping and souvenirs are essential items for an enjoyable safari in Kenya.

Samantha is the founder of Continuous Roamer, a travel website focusing on adventure and the outdoors.

With a love for adventure and the great outdoors, Samantha shares tips on skiing, luxury safaris, camping, and finding hidden food gems in different destinations.

With over 20 years of skiing experience across Europe, North America, and beyond, she's also an expert in luxury accommodations and experiences.

Whether camping in Canada or dining in a Michelin-starred restaurant, Samantha always seeks out the best experiences and accommodations, and her blog highlights the best of them for her readers.

Samantha is currently living in London.

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What to Pack for a Masai Mara or Kenya Safari

Packing for a trip to Africa can be a daunting experience even for an experienced traveler, let alone a first time Safari tourist. Packing for a Kenya Safari or for that matter packing for a Masai Mara trip is rightly so more than a simple affair, with careful consideration required for the weather, comfort, local culture and alot more. See our Kenya Safari packing check list below

What to Pack

This packing check list is a general guide on what to take on your Kenya safari. Please ensure you pack minimally and use layers, as local airlines flying to various parks within the country have a typical luggage restriction of 15 kilos allowance per person (including carry-on bags). Soft sided bags or folding duffel bags are recommended. While we list everything down below with descriptions, your packing list ought to include the following essentials: Clothing suitable for Safaris, Shoes, Hat, Sun Protection, Insect repellant, vital Medication and Cameras or Photography equipment among other items. Not to forget Travel Documents, prior to start of your safari check for your Passport, Health cards (vaccination certificates as required), Airline tickets, Credit cards and Insurance papers. Ensure all the documents are inorder and up-to-date. Your passport must have at least 2 blank pages and six months of validity from the proposed date of exit from Kenya. Note: Kenya aims to eliminate plastic bag usage for environmental reasons and these have been banned and their use is illegal.

The ideal clothes to pack for your safari are casual in nature, loose fitting and lightweight, so as to keep you cool and dry. For colours, pick neutral Pastel shades over brighter colours for optimum suitability for the wilderness. Khaki and Forest Green colours are an all time safari favourite and most recommended. Please note that camouflaged, military~pattern clothes may be considered unlawful in East Africa as they are worn by the local forces so best to avoid. Make sure to pack a fleece, cardigan or light jacket for the cool early mornings during game drives. When packing, keep in mind that most lodges and camps provide laundry services. Below is a basic packing list of the essential clothing you may want to bring: 01 short sleeve casual shirt, 02 khaki long sleeve shirts, 01 Wind cheater or light jacket or Fleece jacket, 01 Safari Multi Pocket Saafri Vest (especially useful for Photographers), 02 pairs khaki smart casual trousers or Chinos, 02 pairs safari shorts 03 pairs sport socks, 02 T-shirts, 01 pair Nightwear, 01 pair Swimwear, Sports bra. If staying at 5 star camps or lodges, carry along a single set of smart but basic dinner wear, useful also for nights in Nairobi city or along the coast in Mombasa.

For most safaris which do not involve trekking or "bush walking", fully closed lightweight and comfortable walking shoes such as sneakers with good grip do just fine. The classic Safari boots [ pictured] are always a great all round choice. These are also known as Chukka boots. Hiking boots are also useful but you may find these unnecessarily heavy unless you actually plan on hiking during your trip. Flip flops or sandals for around the swimming pool or in-room use are ever useful and are cheap to buy in Nairobi as well.

Hats and Sun Protection

For Sun protection we recommend you pack sunscreen lotion ( a high enough SPF) as well as a wide brim Safari hat (pictured) which will help keep the sun off your face and neck. A pair of Sunglasses and prescription glasses for those that wear contact lenses (it can be rather dusty to wear these comfortably).

Insect Repellant

Some of the lodges and camps provides insect repellent but we still encourage you to pack your own preferred brand. Repellants containing Deet are said to be more effective against most insects and bugs. All-natural citronella repellant can also get the job done if you are concerned about the deet effects. Please consult your Doctor or Pharmacist.

Remember you will be in the "bush" so to say while on Safari and the nearest town or city may be hours away. Be sure to pack your most essential personal medications especially brands or medicines that may not be available locally in Kenya. Pharmacies in Nairobi stock a wide variety of medicines so for basic requirements such as pain relief, anti malaria pills or antacids and the like one can purchase once in Nairobi. Keep in mind to carry along any prescriptions when you bring along medication into Kenya in case you are required to show this at the airport.

Cameras, Binoculars, Travel Adaptors & Laptop

As for Cameras and Photography equipment we recommend packing thse into your carry on luggage rather than check in for enhanced safety. East Africa offers amazing photo opportunities so bring along a decent camera to make the most of your trip. Binoculars are very useful and though some Safari operators provide a pair in their vehicles, these may be basic in specs so if you can bring a set you are prefer. For serious photographers, you may want to carry your laptop which is so useful for downloading and processing your images after a day on Safari. Also helps you make the most of your camera storage cards as you can keep moving images to your laptop or hard disk at the end of each day. Spare AA and AAA batteries arae available for sale at certain lodges in Masai Mara as well and this includes standard and rechargeable batteries. Regarding Electrical sockets, bring a couple of Travel socket adaptors. In Kenya we use the associated plug type G, which is the plug that has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Kenya operates on a 240V supply voltage and 50Hz.

Other stuff

Other important items that you must include in your packing list includes personal toiletries (such as travel size shampoo, conditioner,soap, deodorant, moisturizer, hair brush, tooothpaste and toothbrush), sanitary products for ladies, wet wipes and hand sanitizers, small sewing kit, small scissors and pocket knife (not in carry on bag) alarm clock, money pouch or money belt, reading materials, pen and a notebook.

Pro & Cons of Flying to Masai Mara

Since we mentioned above that flights from Nairobi to Masai Mara and back carry a luggage limitation of 15 kilos per passengers, combined for check in and carry on, we often get asked if driving down would be a viable option as some tourists such as photographers have camera equipment that weighs more than the 15 kilos. So the main advantage of flying to Masai Mara is that it is quick and comfortable as you can get to your destination in an hour compared to a 5 or 6 hour drive. Keep in mind the the planes are small light aircraft, designed for use on the bush airstrips. Some planes may have upto 38 seats, but most have 4-16 seaters with your pilot sitting with you, typically the dependable Cessna planes.

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Afrika Packliste: Safari Ausrüstung

Welche art safaris planst du, vergesse beim packen nie: weniger ist mehr., wir sind "nur" auf safari - übertreibe es nicht mit tarnkleidung, auf safaris ist es nicht immer heiß - mein tipp: zwiebellook, ich reise mit rucksack oder duffle bag, was kommt ins handgepäck, safari kleidung, welches fernglas für eine safari, welche safari fotoausrüstung - meine kamera und objektive, weitere unverzichtbare reiseutensilien, afrika packliste: die ideale ausrüstung für safaris und pirschfahrten.

Wer zum ersten Mal auf Safari geht weiß oft nicht, was er einpacken soll. Außer der „typischen“ Safari-Ausrüstung: sandfarbene Hose, olivgrünes Hemd und am besten einen Hut in gedeckten Farbtönen. Ganz ehrlich? Ich besaß weder den typischen Hut noch eine olivgrüne Bluse. Eine sandfarbene Hose schon. Doch viel lieber ziehe ich eine andere Hose an, statt mich wie alle in Sand zu kleiden.

Hier habe ich dir aufgelistet, was ich im Laufe der Jahre und meinen Reisen nach Südafrika , Kenia , Tansania , Uganda , Ruanda , Namibia und Botswana bei sogenannten Game-Drives (Pirschfahrten) und Bush Walks (Buschwanderungen zu Fuß) dabei hatte.

Übrigens besitze ich mittlerweile sogar einen "typischen" Safari Hut - diesen habe ich mir aber nicht für Afrika und Game Drives oder Bush Walks sondern für meinen 3-monatigen Australien Trip gekauft. Rate mal, wie oft ich ihn aufhatte? Genau: Kein einziges Mal! Jetzt habe ich ihn meinen Trägern bei der Kilimandscharo Besteigung geschenkt.

Bist du das erste Mal in Ostafrika oder im südlichen Afrika und möchtest nur Pirschfahrten im Auto unternehmen? Dann ist es völlig egal, welche Kleidung du trägst. Vor allem in Südafrika und Namibia sind die Tiere in Nationalparks so sehr an Menschen und Autos gewöhnt, dass sie nicht davonrennen. Auch in Kenia oder Tansania ist es in den bekanntesten Nationalparks der Fall.

In diesen Ländern kommt hinzu, dass Masai rot tragen. Vor allem für Großkatzen löst das ein Alarm aus, denn sie wissen: Rot gibt Ärger. Also halten sie sich fern. Da Safari Autos in den beiden Ländern oft geschlossen sind, ist deine Farbwahl dann allerdings genauso nebensächlich wie in den beiden südlichen Ländern.

Allerdings gibt es kleine Einschränkungen bei der Kleiderwahl:

• Schwarz und Blau zieht Moskitos und in manchen Regionen auch die Tsetsefliege an (überträgt die Schlafkrankheit beispielsweise im Tarangire Nationalpark in Tansania).
• Bist du hingegen über 2.000 Meter, was in Uganda und Ruanda der Fall sein kann, kannst du schwarz tragen , da auf dieser Höhe keine Moskitos mehr vorkommen (ist ein Richtwert).
• Bist du viel zu Fuß im Busch auf sogenannten Bush Walks unterwegs? Dann solltest du definitiv die Farben der Natur tragen. Grün , Sand und Braun sind ideal.

Egal, ob du mit dem Dachzelt oder in Lodges unterwegs bist. Reisen in Safari-Länder bedeuten eigentlich immer: Lässige und bequeme Kleidung im Zwiebellook. Die schickeren Klamotten kannst du getrost zu Hause lassen.

Waschen kannst du vor Ort meist selbst (wenn das Wasser sauber ist). In teuren Lodges gibt es fast immer den Service, kostenlos Wäsche waschen lassen. Vor allem bei meiner Reise nach Namibia und Botawana zur Trockenzeit waren die Kleidungsstücke innerhalb kürzester Zeit trocken, nur die Klamotten waren oft noch von einem leichten braun-Schleier bedeckt, da dann das Wasser eben nicht ganz sauber, dazu Mangelware ist. Aber die Kleidung war oft innerhalb einer Stunde trocken, das war echt schnell!

Beachte: Bei Fügen mit Buschflieger (zum Beispiel ins Okavango Delta) ist nur kleines Gepäck bis zu 8 - 10 kg erlaubt. Informiere dich vor der Reise darüber. Bei Buschfliegern in Tansania waren 20 kg erlaubt, was aber niemand geprüft hat (zumindest nicht am Serengeti Airstrip oder Arusha Airport).

Ich habe auf Safaris schon alles gesehen: Von knallig neonfarbenen T-Shirts (auf Walking Safaris !!!) bis zu Tarnkleidung in Camouflage-Muster. Auch ich habe mir anfangs oft keine Gedanken gemacht. Nur knallige Farben versuchte ich zu vermeiden. Doch beim Gorilla Trekking in Uganda war es dann passiert: Es regnete in Strömen und ich kam mir in meiner leuchtend türkisfarbenen Jacke so richtig bescheuert vor.

Nach der Reise habe ich mir sofort eine in gedeckten Naturfarben gekauft. Ich mag knallige Farben wirklich, doch wer zu Fuß wilde Tiere in freier Natur beobachten möchte, sollte eben deckende Farben wie Khaki , Beige und Braun tragen. Klassische Safari-Farben eben.

Ob es jetzt ein Safari-Outfit sein muss oder nicht - ich trug in Südafrika, Botswana, Namibia und größtenteils auch in Uganda und Ruanda meine ganz normalen Chino-Hosen die ich auch im Alltag trage, keine speziellen Hosen, die ich mir davor im Outdoor-Shop meines Vertrauens gekauft habe. Ideal sind übrigens Leinenhosen und Hemden. Sie sind kühl und angenehm auf der Haut zu tragen. Auch bei Temperaturen über 40 Grad ideal.

Lediglich beim Gorilla-Trekking in Uganda und Ruanda habe ich meine lange Zip-Hose getragen, da sie dünn und sehr bequem ist. Das Resultat war dann ein langer Riss durch Dornen im undurchdringlichen Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Ein Glück hatte ich damals nicht die normale Hose an.

Camouflage-Kleidung würde ich generell zu Hause lassen , da dies oft missverstanden werden kann. Diese Kleidung wird nur vom Militär , Wilderern oder Anti-Wilderer-Einheiten getragen - echt jetzt! Bist du nahezu ausschließlich im Auto auf Game Drives? Dann ist es egal, was du trägst. Natürlich sind gedeckte Farben besser, allerdings bist du im Auto nicht in Gefahr und musst dich nicht tarnen.

Auf meinen Safaris in Südafrika und im Juli oder in Ostafrika war es morgens extrem kalt oder kühl. Daher solltest du wirklich darauf achten, zu welcher Jahreszeit du reist. Unsere Sommermonate sind dort die Wintermonate. Vor Sonnenaufgang und nach Sonnenuntergang ist es kalt.

Eine Softshell- oder Fleecejacke reicht oft aus. In Kenia im Julia in der Masai Mara blies allerdings der Wind so eiskalt, dass ich froh war, eine Wollmütze und zusätzliche dünne Daunenjacke eingepackt zu haben. Sobald die Sonne aufgegangen ist, kannst du Jacken und Mützen meist ablegen.

Auch diese verhassten Zip-Hosen (ich mag die nicht sonderlich) könnten für den ein oder anderen nützlich sein, denn die Beine kann man schnell abtrennen und hat im Handumdrehen eine kurze Hose.

Aktuell habe ich meinst meinen Wanderrucksack (Tatonka) als Handgepäck dabei. Fotorucksäcke nutze ich nur noch selten. Für Bush Walks (Spaziergänge in der Savanne) eignen sich Rucksäcke in Olive oder Brauntönen. Da Tatonka keinen im Angebot hat, habe ich hier einen Rucksack von Fjällräven im Einsatz.

Das Innenteil meiner Fotorucksäcke habe ich in den Wanderrucksäcken dabei, damit Kamera und Objektive im Rucksack geschützt sind.

Der Fjällräven Rucksack besitzt zahlreiche Fächer, um Laptop, Kamerazubehör, Geldbeutel, Dokumente, Trinkflaschen etc. perfekt zu verstauen. Für Bush Walks hat er dazu einen Hüft- und Brustgurt. Ich könnte sogar eine Trinkblase für längere Fußmärsche mitnehmen. Habe ich aber nicht immer dabei. Dieser Rucksack ist für mich bei Wanderungen der Beste.

Oft entscheide ich spontan, welcher Rucksack mitkommt.

Meine "normale Packliste kannst du hier ansehen und downloaden: Urlaubscheckliste mit kostenlosem PDF als Download

Beim Hinflug rate ich mittlerweile immer, einmal Ersatzkleidung für den nächsten Tag einzupacken, falls es wirklich mal passiert, und das aufgegebene Gepäck erst 1 bis 2 Tage später ankommt. Ist uns leider alles schon passiert.

• Daher mein Tipp: Wechselkleidung für 1 bis 2 Tage einpacken
• Ein Paar Kompressionssocken für den Flug
• Wichtige Dokumente wie Reisepass, Internationaler + Nationaler Führerschein (je nach Destination), Impfpass
• Erste Adresse, die ich bei der Einreise oft angeben muss
• Bargeld (ein paar Euros, ein paar Rand oder Schilling, ein paar US-Dollar, alle in kleinen Scheinen)
• iPad oder Kindle mit Büchern, Reiseführern
• Wasserdichte und verschließbare Beutel von Tatonka , vorwiegend der Reisepass und wichtige Dokumente freuen sich über eine wasserdichte Aufbewahrung.
• Ein weiterer Beutel von Tatonka für Lippenbalsam, Handcreme, Zahnbürste und kleiner Zahnpasta (falls das Hauptgepäck nicht mitkommt), kleines Deo (von Holy Pit zum nachfüllen , schon die Umwelt) sowie fester Seife ( auch von Holy Pit )
• Mein spezielles Reisetagebuch für Roadtrips (das du auch kaufen kannst)
• Mein MacBook Pro 12″, Ladegerät und kleine externe SSD-Festplatte (wasserdicht)
• Reiseadapter für das entsprechende Land (Kenia, Tansania und Südafrika haben die englischen Adapter, manchmal passt dein deutscher Stecker trotzdem in die Steckdose)
• Kamera, Objektive, Ersatz-Akkus, Ersatz-Speicherkarten
• Externer Powerbank zum Laden von Smartphone, iPad und Kamera
• Sonnenschutz: Sonnenbrille, Hut oder Baseballkappe und Sonnencreme.
• 1-2 leichte Longsleeves (am besten mit UV-Schutz) oder Blusen und lange Hosen zum Schutz vor Moskitos und vor Dornen bei Walking Safaris
• 1 -2  Shorts, 3 - 4 Tops und 3 -4 T-Shirts (reist du im afrikanischen Winter, dann eher Longsleeves, Pullis und lange Hosen)
• 1 bequemer Pulli (meist Kapuzenpullover)
• Flip-Flops oder Birkenstock
• Bequeme Schuhe für Bush Walks (Leichte Trekkingschuhe mit guter Sohle oder die typischen Schuhe aus Südafrika von Veldskoen – ich besitze beides)
• Eventuell Gamaschen für Spaziergänge im Busch
• Softshell- oder Fleece-Jacke
• Socken und Unterwäsche für 1 Woche
• Evtl. eine Tunika oder Bluse für abends
• Schlafsachen
• Microfaser-Handtuch (trocknet schnell und ist platzsparend)
• Bikini oder Badeshorts
• Als Frau ein Kleid

Auf der ersten Reise nach Südafrika hatte ich kein Fernglas dabei. Mittlerweile weiß ich: Ein Fernglas ist ein absolutes Must-Have! Anfangs hatte ich ein kleines und günstiges (wie dieses von Decathlon), mittlerweile besitze ich das STEINER Fernglas Ranger Xtreme 8x56 .

Dieses begleitet mich nicht nur auf Safaris ins östliche und südliche Afrika, sondern auch in den Regenwald (Kolumbien, Peru und Costa Rica, um die Faultiere und Tucane oder Papageien hoch oben in den Bäumen zu finden).

→ Das Fernglas mit allen Features und Details kannst du dir hier genau ansehen

Früher hatte ich ein billiges Modell, mit dem ich nie so ganz zufrieden war. Jetzt habe ich meinen Allrounder gefunden und habe auf meiner letzten Reise in Tansania lange damit verbracht, Geparden mit Jungen in weiter Ferne zu beobachten, da meine Kamera mit 100-400 mm Telezoom nicht so scharf und nah herankam.

Da ich sehr viel reise, muss meine Kamera vor allem eins sein: robust. Hier habe ich mit der Sony Alpha 7 IV bislang perfekte Erfahrung gesammelt. Sie ist eine der wenigen Kameras, die eine automatische Augensensorerkennung besitzen (für Mensch, Tier und Vogel). Somit hast du garantiert scharfe Fotos.

Ein weiterer Vorteil ist, dass bei diesem neuen Sony Modell der Sensor geschlossen werden kann (wenn du sie nicht auf lautlos stellst). Beim Objektivwechsel in der Savanne hast du somit den Vorteil, dass kein Schmutz mehr auf deinen empfindlichen Sensor gelangt.

Eine weitere Anforderung an eine Kamera ist außerdem, dass sie per Kabel über USB im Auto über ein Akkupack geladen werden kann. In Botswana war ich fast vier Wochen mit Auto und Dachzelt unterwegs und hatte selten Strom zur Verfügung.

Ich weiß, dass die Sony Alpha 7 IV kein Schnäppchen ist. Obendrein ist sie eher schon in der Kategorie "für Profis" und ist dadurch nicht mehr ganz so kompakt und klein. Die Objektive, die ich mir geleistet habe, sind zudem sehr kostspielig. Daher der nächste Punkt:

• Lichtstarke Objektive und ein schneller Autofokus sind das wichtigste bei einer Safari.
• Must-have: 100 - 400 mm, mein meistgenutztes Objektiv bei Safaris. Alternativ das 70-200 mit Konverter.

Obendrein greife ich oft zum Fernglas (siehe oben), um einfach nur zu beobachten und genießen, damit die Safari nicht in Stress ausartet. Vor allem Vögel kannst du so ideal beobachten.

• Taschenmesser: Was würde ich mittlerweile ohne Leatherman machen? Mit ihm konnte ich die Schrauben meiner Sonnenbrille wieder fest drehen, irgendwelche Kabel durchtrennen oder die Schere davon benutzen. Wichtigstes Utensil auf unserem Trip mit Dachzelt durch Namibia und Botswana.
• Stirnlampe (+ Ersatzbatterien): Zweitwichtigster Gegenstand außer dem Taschenmesser in Afrika! Meine hat sogar eine Infrarot-Funktion, damit du die Tiere sehen kannst und nicht blendest.
• Reiseapotheke: Ein Erstes-Hilfe-Set habe ich in Afrika immer dabei. Egal, ob Pflaster, Immodium Akkut, Breitband-Antibiotikum oder Malaria-Prophylaxe. Ich habe schon alles gebraucht. Meist dann, wenn die nächste Apotheke weit weg war. Meine ausführliche Reiseapotheken Checkliste findest du hier (inkl. PDF zum Download). 
• Feuchte Tücher (Baby Wipes sind übrigens super), wenn mal keine Dusche da ist.
• Sagrotan Gel , wenn kein Wasser in der Nähe ist. Immer schön Hände waschen ist Pflicht.
• Insektenspray mit DEET (kannst du auch vor Ort kaufen, das ist oft sogar besser)
• Trinkblase für längere Wanderungen und Bush Walks, dann musst du nicht immer nach hinten zur Trinkflasche greifen.
• Mein Reisetagebuch , damit ich alle Erinnerungen festhalten kann

Zum Ausdrucken und Abhaken für zu Hause folgt bald die Safari Packliste als PDF zum kostenlosen Download.

Achtung: Diese Liste basiert auf meiner Reise-Checkliste und beinhaltet Vorschläge für dich. Jede Reise mit Safaris, Game Drives und Bush Walks ist anders - auch das Wetter.

Überlege dir also genau, was du wirklich benötigst. So kannst du deine Gepäckliste reduzieren und sparst dir eine Menge an Ausrüstung und überflüssigen Kilos an Gepäck.

Hast du weitere Safari Ausrüstung oder Equipment, das auf die Checkliste sollte?

Wir freuen uns immer über Feedback. Verrate uns, welche Ausrüstung und Kleidung auf deiner Safari Packliste steht.

Hier habe ich meine 11 liebsten Reise-Gadgets verraten, auf die ich nicht verzichten möchte.

Folge mir auf Facebook , Instagram , Pinterest und Threads oder abonniere regelmäßig Neuigkeiten per Newsletter .

☕️. Bloggen kostet Zeit und Geld. Du möchtest unsere Arbeit wertschätzen, damit wir weiterhin unsere Tipps als Experten mit dir teilen können? Wir freuen uns über ein Trinkgeld in unserer virtuellen Kaffeekasse bei PayPal →  VIEL UNTERWEGS Kaffeekasse . Dank dir, können wir unsere Leidenschaft und ganzes Herzblut in diesen Blog stecken.

Transparenz und Vertrauen: In diesem Artikel befinden sich Empfehlungslinks (Affiliate-Links). Das bedeutet für dich: Keine Mehrkosten. Aber: Wenn du über einen Link etwas kaufst, erhalte ich eine kleine Provision. Dir entstehen keine Mehrkosten, aber helfen mir, diese Seite zu betreiben und den Blog und meine für dich kostenlose Informationen und Expertentipps zu unterstützen! Vielen lieben Dank!

Hi ich bin Katrin!

Ich bin Katrin, viel unterwegs und echte Reise-Expertin! Mit Campervan oder Rucksack möchte ich die ganze Welt entdecken. Um meine Erfahrungen & Erlebnisse mit dir zu teilen, habe ich diesen Reiseblog gegründet!

Diese Artikel könnten dich auch interessieren

Das sagen unsere Leser

Melanie Scherer

Super Blog. Wir waren vor zwei Jahren auch auf Safari. Wir machten unsere Erfahrungen in unserem Urlaub in Kenia.

Liebe Katrin, gefällt mir sehr gut, toller Blog. War schon mehrmals in SA, dann auch in Namibia/Botswana/Simbabwe. Jetzt ist 3 Wochen Tanzania angesagt und ich freue mich riesig. Dein Blog hilft mir mit dem richtigen Gepäck 🙂 herzliche Grüsse aus der Schweiz, R.

Die UNterkünfte in Afrika werden mit Solarstrom betrieben und daher ist es abends nur stundenweise möglich seine Akkus und das Handy aufzuladen. Außer dem Adapter sollte man daher einen Mehrfachstecker mitnehmen um diese gleichzeitig aufzuladen.

Katrin Lehr

Das stimmt so nicht generell für alle Unterkünfte und Camps. Ich habe unterschiedliche Erfahrungen gemacht. Wenn du z.b. mit Auto und Dachzelt unterwegs bist (Botswana) hast du manchmal gar keinen Strom.

Liebe Grüße Katrin

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• Safari Diaries

Safari Packing List

PLEASE NOTE: No Plastic Bags

Since August 2017 plastic bags have been banned in Kenya. Being in possession of a plastic bag is now against the law (although the government has indicated that any penalties will initially apply to retail outlets and manufacturing companies in Kenya rather than individuals). Visitors are advised to avoid packing any plastic bags in their suitcases or in carry-on hand luggage…

Find out more

Kenyan Safari Essentials Packing List:

Soft bags (that are lockable) are preferable to large rectangular suitcases, owing to the limited space for luggage storage on the small aircraft used for flights into the parks. On the Safarilink and Airkenya light aircraft flights the weight of luggage that can be checked in is limited to 15kgs and this is inclusive of carry-on luggage.

Further information from Safarilink:

Is there anywhere i can store any excess baggage.

Yes, there is a complimentary secure store at our Wilson Airport Office. please inquire at the Checkin counter.

Is the 15kg baggage allowance inclusive of hand luggage?

Yes. If passengers have significant excess baggage on ‘safari’ and International routes, it is recommended they book a ‘freight’ seat at child rate (applicable on Y class fares), which permits confirmed carriage of an extra 75 kgs.

What happens if my baggage is over the weight limit?

In most circumstances our Check-in staff will use their discretion and allow a leeway of up to 2 kgs. However additional excess baggage will only be carried, at the sole discretion of the captain of the aircraft, if the payload of the aircraft and/or space permits and will be charged at the prevailing rate for carriage of freight (currently $ 2 + VAT per kg).

Why do you ask that my luggage is in a soft bag?

Most of our flights are operated by aircraft whose luggage compartments have limited volume and are of an irregular shape. It is thus more difficult for us to stow large rigid suitcases, which in an extreme situation, might have to be carried on the next available flight.

At many camps and lodges a small amount of laundry may be done for you (e.g. one or two items per day per person). This is washed by hand and generally doesn’t include personal items such as underwear for which a supply of detergent is provided in the tents for use of guests. Ask our Sales team for more information when you book.

• Passports (with visa entries)
• Health cards (vaccination certificate)
• Airline tickets / E-tickets
• Cash & Travellers’ Cheques
• Separate record of Travellers’ Cheque numbers
• Credit Cards (VISA, Mastercard and / or American Express)
• Photo-copy of passport / visas / insurance papers

The suggested safari items list given below is a basic indication of what you should bring. On safari, khaki and green coloured clothing are recommended and bright colours are best avoided (fine for the coast and Nairobi). You can now own our quality merchandise worn by our guides in the field. This merchandise is inspired by the adventure-seeking style of an African Safari. Click here to view and for more details.

Please note that camouflage-patterned clothes are illegal because they are worn by local soldiers. In the highland areas north of Nairobi it may get extremely chilly at night or in the early mornings, especially June, July, August when temperatures can be very much colder, so it is recommended that you pack some items of warm clothing.

• Trainers / Walking shoes / safari boots
• Comfortable shoes:  loafers / moccasins / deck shoes
• Jacket / Windbreaker / Fleece for the very chilly early morning and evening game drives
• Waterproof light rainjacket
• Warm sweater / Fleece jacket
• 2 pairs safari trousers / chinos
• 2 pairs safari shorts
• 4 pairs sport socks
• 3 short sleeve shirts
• 1 long sleeve shirt
• 1 pair casual trousers (men) evening outfit (women) – for evening in the city

Toiletries & Medicine

• Malaria prophylaxis
• Prescription drugs (also bring the generic names for these drugs, good idea to pack 2 separate lots)
• Motion sickness pills
• Insect repellent (containing DEET for mosquitos)
• Sun Screen (SPF 15 or higher)
• Shampoo / Conditioner (if you have a preferred brand otherwise shampoo provided by most hotels, camps)
• Toothpaste / Toothbrush
• Hair Brush / Comb
• Electric / Hand Razor
• Emery Boards / Tweezers
• Hand Lotion
• Feminine Hygiene Supplies

Wear sunscreens and cover up during the hottest time of day – between 11am and 3pm.

Other Supplies

• Sunglasses / Case
• Prescription glasses (and a spare pair)
• Flashlight (small with extra batteries, or headlamp)
• Batteries (for electronic equipment)
• Converter plug set if needed (the electricity supply is 240 Volt, 50 Hz). Sockets are usually 3 pin and are of the square variety.
• Alarm clock
• Money pouch or moneybelt
• Binoculars (very important, one pair per person. For most people magnification of 8x or 10x  is ideal)
• Small Day backpack
• Favourite road snacks
• Books / Magazines / Journal
• Pen / notepad
• Tube of Travel Wash (for small items of laundry)

For recommended safari books and guides see our Recommended Reading List .

Our recommended safari books and guides

Our Recommended Safari Travel Essentials:

Our clients often ask us for advice on what safari essentials to pack for their safari adventure. Here are the key items that we recommend, with links to Amazon for the latest deals. NB as an “Amazon Associate” we earn commission from these paid links, and the profits are put towards the cost of running the wildlife conservancies.

• Packing List
• Photography
• Recommended Travel Products
• World Travel Guide

Concerned about the security of your booking and your own safety while on safari?

We fully appreciate your concerns when it comes to booking a safari in Africa and you can rest assured that your financial security when booking and your own personal safety when on safari is our highest priority. Gamewatchers Safaris is a member of the Kenya Association of Tour Operators bonding scheme, backed by a leading insurance company, to ensure your payments are fully protected if a bonded KATO member ceases trading.

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Tel UK: 07986 978985 Tel USA: 1-877-710-3014 Tel Kenya: +254-722-509200

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What to Pack for Safari: The Ultimate Safari Packing List

The safari packing list below is based on our personal experience as well as the advice and recommendations from previous guests along with our partners in-country. follow the list and you won’t worry about leaving something behind or taking something that you won’t need on your african safari.  going gorilla trekking a complete list of trekking essentials is included at the bottom of this guide., safari clothing tips.

• Wear neutral colors : Khaki, light brown, green, and tan. White clothes will show up dust and dirt. Bright-colored clothing such as red makes you very conspicuous to the wildlife, especially on a walking safari.
• Dress casually: Safari only requires casual clothing unless specified (i.e. for luxury train journeys, etc.)
• Cover at night : Long sleeves and pants will help you stay warm and avoid mosquito bites
• Be comfortable : Clothing should consist of non-synthetic material. Cotton is ideal.
• Use the laundry service : Most camps/lodges offer laundry service but will not launder undergarments. Choose clothing that is easily laundered.
• Dress in layers : Zip-off sleeves and lots of pockets are a plus. Bring a jacket and scarf along on game drives as temperatures drop quickly once the sun goes down in the evening.
• Provide complete sun protection – especially for the back of your neck
• Gas permeable so the heat generated from your head can escape
• Be water-absorbent on the inside and waterproof on the outside, in order to absorb sweat and cover you if you get caught in the rain
• Light-neutral, unisex safari hat
• Dark-neutral, unisex safari hat
• SPF baseball cap
• Don’t over-pack : Choose lightweight clothing options whenever possible since packing space is at a premium.
• Safari shirt
• Hooded safari jacket
• Fleece zip-up jacket
• White button down/tunic
• Tank top with built-in bra
• Quilted lightweight jacket
• Quilted jacket option 2
• Pullover sweater
• Lightweight, water-resistant safari pants
• Lightweight SPF pants in khaki
• Convertable pants
• Linen drawstring pants
• Linen pants option 2
• High waisted leggings in green
• High waisted leggings in green option 2
• Athletic joggers in dark olive and brick red
• Breathable, moisture-wicking bra
• Moisture-wicking briefs
• Moisture-wicking thongs
• Ray-Ban Aviator
• Ray-Ban Wayfarer
• Maui Jim Cat-Eye
• Buff wrap to protect your face from dirt or to keep your hair out of your face
• Blanket scarf or shawl  to wrap yourself up on cold flights, chilly morning and evening game drives, and cover your shoulders in places with a strict dress code
• Bug repellent socks
• Fleece pullover
• Lightweight jacket
• Softshell water-resistant jacket
• Breathable short sleeve shirt
• Moisture-wicking tank top
• Zip-off safari pants
• Water-resistant hiking pants
• Moisture-wicking boxers
• Maui Jim Rectangle
• Ray-Ban Aviators

LUGGAGE ON LIGHT AIRCRAFT TRANSFERS

Most airfields are over 3,500 feet above sea level and are located in the warm tropics, thereby reducing the permissible carrying capacity.

• Weight restrictions on charter flights are limited to a soft “barrel” (duffle bag) with a maximum of 33 lbs (44lbs in parts of Southern Africa). This includes your day pack and camera gear. Weight limits are strictly enforced. Only soft bags, preferably without wheels, will be accepted. This includes camera equipment and hand luggage. Hard suitcases are not permitted . The maximum dimensions allowed are 10” W x 11” H x 24” L. Light aircraft baggage compartments are only 10” high, so the pilots must have the ability to manipulate the bag into the compartment.

• Water-resistant Travel Duffel with Wheels
• Small Travel Day Pack
• Slimmer Small Travel Day Pack
• Medium Canvas Day Pack

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

• Place them in your checked luggage to keep track of your bags when flying to/from your destination
• Luggage tag
• Disposal shower caps
• Gallon freezer ziplock bags
• Adventure books
• Packing cubes are like drawers for your luggage
• Or this plug adaptor with a power strip to charge multiple devices at a time
• Travel-sized power strip to charge multiple devices at a time
• Nikon Prostaff 7s 10×42 Binocs

MEDICATIONS

Pack enough daily vitamins and prescribed medicine to last your entire trip. Keep your prescriptions in their original bottles and store them in your carry on bag. 

• Allergy remedy
• Rehydration salts like Liquid I.V.
• Pain reliever 
• Antiseptic cream
• Dramamine Natural Non-Drowsy
• Heartburn remedy
• Anti-diarrhea medicine
• Cold/flu tablets

Most accommodations provide basic toilet amenities (i.e. body soap, shampoo, conditioner). Any liquids and cream that go into your carry-on luggage must be in bottles of 3.4 ounces or less

• Travel toothbrush or toothbrush cover
• Toothpaste  and floss
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Men’s travel razor and shave cream
• Women’s travel razor and shave cream
• Sanitary requirements
• If you wear contacts, we recommend that you bring along a pair of glasses in case you get irritation from the dust.
• Face moisturizer
• Toner to cleanse your face of dirt
• Lip balm with SPF
• Insect Repellent

Travel Tip: If you’re transitting through the U.K., and you pack liquids in your carry-on bag, they must be placed in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag, which holds no more than a liter and measures approximately 8in x 8in. Contents must fit comfortably inside the bag so it can be sealed. You’re limited to 1 plastic bag per person and you must show the bag at the airport security point.

PHOTOGRAPHY

• Nikon CoolPix P900
• Smartphone gimbal stabilizer 
• Lens cleaner
• Extra lens caps
• Microfiber cloth
• Bean bag (tripod substitute)

GORILLA TREKKING ESSENTIALS

• Garden gloves to push away tree branches and for gripping tree roots – you will be happy to have clean hands when taking photos.
• Long waterproof socks and gaiters to prevent cuts and scratches and protect from army ants.
• Men’s
• Women’s
• A lightweight, foldable backpack is necessary for carrying all your essentials.

WHAT NOT   TO PACK

• Several countries in East Africa have banned single-use plastic bags (this includes customary plastic duty-free bags). Zip-lock bags are acceptable.
• Camouflage clothing is not recommended for travel in southern African countries. Camouflage or military-inspired clothing is prohibited when traveling in Zimbabwe.
• Drones are prohibited at most camps.
• Many camps cannot support electricity for hair dryers.

Safari Packing List [Tanzania and Kenya]

• Post last modified: January 6, 2024
• Post author: Katie Seemann

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Going on a safari is a bucket list vacation for lots of people. Being out on the open savanna with exotic wildlife is an experience you’ll never forget. But this type of safari vacation can be a little more difficult to pack for than, say, a beach vacation . There are very specific things you need when you’re going on a safari so a packing list is essential.

It was really frustrating searching for a good safari packing list before my big trip to Tanzania and Kenya. I either found packing lists that were full of ugly clothes or ones that were utterly ridiculous (a maxi dress and jumpsuit for an African safari?) Get real!!

So, I figured I’d take what I learned doing the research for my trip and write my own guide. This ultimate safari packing list is full of practical tips and great suggestions for what to wear on a safari.

This safari packing list was based on my trip to Tanzania and Kenya, but it will be applicable to most African safaris.

Legal Stuff: This post may contain affiliate links or credit card referral links.  We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

What To Pack For A Safari In Tanzania and Kenya

Booking a safari in Tanzania and Kenya was a huge thrill. An African safari has been at the top of my bucket list for a long time, and I was so excited it was finally happening. There was only one problem — you need to wear muted, neutral colors on safari, and my closet was full of bright and bold colors and patterns (hello, purple leopard print). So, I basically needed to buy an entirely new safari wardrobe. Cue shopping mode!

Here are a couple of things you’ll want to keep in mind when packing for an African safari.

When going on an African safari, you really need to pay attention to the colors you’re wearing. Khaki, tan, green (olive, not lime), and light browns are recommended.

Don’t wear blue or black clothes because these colors can attract the tsetse flies. Don’t wear white because it gets dirty very quickly. Don’t wear bright colors because you’ll stand out on the savanna (and you want to blend in with the natural surroundings as much as possible on a safari.

Colors to wear on safari: Khaki, tan, olive greens, browns

Colors to avoid on safari: White, black, blue, and any bright colors

Don’t wear bold prints and patterns on safari, including leopard print (damn, there goes half of my wardrobe) and camo. In some African countries, camo prints are reserved for the military only — it’s actually illegal in some countries — so avoid it while you’re traveling through Africa.

You’ll want moisture-wicking, fast-drying, and UV-protective clothing while on safari.

Accessories

While you’ll want to keep jewelry to a minimum, there are a few other accessories you’ll need. You can’t go on safari without a good safari hat . I’d also recommend a small belt bag to keep essentials like your passport close by at all times. Sunglasses are also essential.

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Safari Clothes

A safari is a trip where you’ll need to focus more on function than fashion (and it kills this former fashion designer to say that). Opt for performance-type fabrics that provide UV protection, breathability, and moisture-wicking. You’ll most likely be wearing outfits more than once, so avoid fabrics like cotton that hold on to odors easily.

What I Wore on Safari [Women’s Safari Clothes]

I loved this button-up shirt from REI in Olive. The lightweight fabric was moisture-wicking and quick-drying. Plus, the adjustable sleeves provided lots of flexibility. This version from Amazon is similar and available in

For layering, I wore this Renew Racerback Tank from Athleta in Ballerina Gown.

The Momentum Top in Bali Green, also from Athleta, was a great long-sleeve option.

For a short-sleeved option, I went with the In Motion Tee in Olive Green from Athleta. This UPF 50+ quick-dry option from Amazon would also work well.

My choice for safari pants was the Halle Straight pants from Prana in Slate Green. They were comfortable and held up to lots of wear and tear on my 2-week trip.

For a light jacket, I chose The North Face Mountain Sweatshirt Hoodie in Agave Green. It was lightweight yet kept me warm enough about 98% of the time. It can get chilly in the mornings and evenings on safari, so I ended up wearing this every day, and it held up great.

I also had this travel vest from SCOTTeVEST with lots of pockets. It was a great alternative on days when I didn’t want to carry around a separate bag.

My husband and I ended up getting the same safari hat . It was adjustable and had a chin strap (which came in very handy). Plus, you could squish it down flat to pack.

I wore hiking shoes from Merrell. The exact style I wore isn’t available anymore, but they were similar to these . My shoes were very comfortable and stood up to the 2-week trip with ease.

Men’s Safari Clothes

In case you’re looking for men’s safari clothes, here’s a rundown of what my husband wore on safari.

• Merrel Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoes
• Sunday Afternoon Charter Escape Hat
• The North Face Echo Rock Pullover Hoodie (It’s sold out now, but this would be a good alternative )
• ExOfficio BugsAway Monto UPF 50 Long Sleeve Shirt (No Longer Available)
• Arc’teryx Short Sleeve Shirt (there’s also a great long-sleeved version available)
• Patagonia Capilene Cool Trail Shirt (This is sold out now, but here’s a similar alternative )
• Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pants

The Ultimate Safari Packing List – Tanzania and Kenya

A safari isn’t something you can quickly pack for the night before you leave. It will take a little bit of planning and probably a few purchases since you may need to buy safari-specific clothing and essentials.

Here’s what you’ll need for an African Safari:

Travel Documents and Money

• Valid passport
• Yellow fever vaccination records/certificate
• Copy of flight itinerary
• Personal medical/dental insurance cards
• Cash in U.S. Dollars (bills MUST have been issued in 2004 or later). Divide your cash into different areas of your carry-on luggage, wallet, and money belt just in case something happens to one of those items.
• Travel insurance information (While I usually rely on the travel insurance offered by my credit card, I did purchase a separate policy for this trip.)
• Credit card without a foreign transaction fee. Here are 2 of my favorites:

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• Sweater or fleece pullover to keep warm
• Sturdy boots or shoes
• Moisture-wicking T-shirts  (2 to 5, depending on how often you want to change)
• Tank tops (2-3 for layering)
• Long sleeve shirts (1 or 2)
• Shorts (1 pair)
• Long trousers (2 to 3 pairs)
• Vest with pockets
• Underwear/Socks/Bras (bring long socks to keep your ankles covered)
• Flip Flops (for tented camps and lodges)
• Bathing Suit (optional)
• Camera and memory cards (this is the camera that I used )
• Telephoto lens for your camera (don’t skip this…your pictures will be significantly better with a good lens)
• Lip balm with sunscreen
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
• Insect Repellent
• Personal toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothbrush, deodorant, eye drops, etc.)
• Travel towel (depending on the type of accommodations you will be staying at)
• Malaria tablets
• Basic first aid kit
• Prescription medicines (plus extra)
• Extra pair of prescription glasses/ extra contacts
• Flashlight or headlamp
• Chargers and extra batteries for your camera, phone, etc
• Power adapter that fits UK-style electrical sockets
• Travel-sized laundry detergent for handwashing
• Tylenol, Benedryl, and any other OTC medications that you take occasionally
• Small notebook or journal to record your adventures
• African animal guide book

Bring soft luggage such as a duffel bag , hiking pack, or sports bag. These are ideal for packing into a safari vehicle. Hard suitcases can often be difficult to fit into safari jeeps. Look for something durable yet inexpensive…you don’t want to worry about your bag when it gets squished in the back of a safari vehicle.

Bring a backpack to carry all of your important items, including travel documents, money, camera, medication, etc. You should keep this backpack with you at all times.

Don’t forget to leave space in your luggage for the all-important souvenirs you will probably buy. It’s not a bad idea to bring along a packable tote that you can use if you can’t get everything back into your bags on the way home.

Final Thoughts

Going on an African safari was a trip of a lifetime for me. While I thoroughly enjoyed my trip, it did take more planning effort than other trips I’ve been on, including buying a lot of new clothes suitable for safari. I hope my safari packing list helped you out and made packing for your safari a breeze!

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What to Pack: African Safari Packing List

By Jennifer Dombrowski 31 Comments

Packing for an African safari is vastly different than packing for just about any other trip, and it’s often a challenge for first time safari goers. Not only do most safari goers have weight restrictions on bush flights (a typical weight restriction is 15 kilograms or 33 pounds total per person, including camera equipment and carry-ons), but you also have the challenge of knowing which types of clothes to wear on safari are appropriate. We’ve been on safari twice now in Tanzania and Kenya, and have put together our tips for what to pack for an African safari.

Preparing for an African Safari

What to pack for a safari isn’t just about the clothing, either. There’s a lot of little quirky things about traveling to Sub-Saharan Africa that you need to know before you go. We either got tips in advance from the awesome safari companies we went with, or learned about various policies along the way.

1. Prepare your documents 

Many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa require your passport to be valid for six months beyond your travel dates in Africa. They also have requirements like a certain number of consecutive blank pages being available in your passport. So be sure to pull out your passport well in advance of your trip, and thoroughly review all the entry requirements for each country you’re visiting. US citizens can get the most up-to-date entry requirements on travel.state.gov .

In addition to your passport being in order, you should obtain a Yellow Health Card and have it completed by your doctor. The Yellow Heath Card is an internationally recognized record of vaccinations endorsed by the World Health Organization .

Some countries require visitors to obtain certain vaccinations as part of their entry requirements. These vaccinations should be completed with the date of administration, the date the vaccination is valid until and be certified with a stamp and signature from your doctor.

All passengers on our flight to Tanzania had to present their Yellow Health Cards to an official that boarded the plane to verify the documents the moment we touched down. Some countries won’t even allow you off the plane if you can’t present this card, so it’s equally as important to have as your passport.

The other thing to pay close attention to are visas. Many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa require a visa for entry. Often a visa upon arrival is offered, and you should be prepared to pay for your visa with cash as electricity operates on the grid and connections can be unreliable for card machines. US dollars are widely accepted, though your US dollar bills should be printed after 2006. Additionally, ensure your bills are in excellent condition. US dollar bills with tears or writing on them won’t be accepted.

2. Cash is king in Africa

You won’t find credit card machines in the African bush and you’ll likely visit at least one village where you can pick up some unique souvenirs. US dollars are fairly widely accepted, and you can also easily take out local currency from an ATM when you arrive at the international airport.

Know that tipping is common throughout Sub-Saharan Africa and you should have cash on hand to tips guides and service staff. Your safari company should answer questions and provide a guide on tipping etiquette. In our experience for a luxury safari, you should plan to tip your guide between $20 – $30 per day per couple.

Some of the airstrips also have coolers with drinks for purchase, though if you’re choosing a luxury safari all drinks are typically included.

Note that particularly in East Africa, only crisp US bills newer than 2014 are accepted. This is because banknotes produced prior than in the past 10 years were very easily forged. We definitely ran into this when a bill older than 2006 made it into our mix and was refused. It’s not a myth!

What to Pack for an African Safari

The primary activity on an African safari is going on game drives, which are what safaris are called in Africa. While there are often additional activities like walking safaris offered, the majority of your time will be spent sitting in safari vehicles while you and your guide look for the various wildlife you’ve come to see. That’s why it’s paramount that your African safari clothes are practical and comfortable.

We break everything down for you below with further explanation, but your packing list for safari should include the following essentials and will work no matter if you need a 2-day or 2-week safari packing list:

• duffel or soft-sided bag
• TSA approved clear toiletry case
• 2 pairs of pants in a breathable fabric in earth tones
• 1 – 2 long sleeve shirts in chambray or earth tones
• 3 layering tanks or tshirts
• utility jacket
• light scarf
• wide brim hat with chin strap
• closed toe shoes like trail runners or fashion sneakers with good traction
• waterproof dry bag
• moisturizer
• insect repellent with Deet
• conditioner
• plug adapters / convertors
• USB flash drive
• Memory cards for your camera
• first aid kit

1. Luggage and Packing Essentials

You’ll likely be arriving to safari destinations like the Serengeti or Masai Mara on a bush flight. These are small planes, often only a Cesna Caravan, that have strict weight limits. They also require that passengers travel with soft-sided luggage that can easily be stuffed into compartments.

Some airlines like AirKenya and SafariLink offer luggage storage for a small fee. This can be a convenient option if you’re returning to the same airport. Just bring a duffel bag with you to take along to your safari destination, and store the rest of your luggage. But if you’re continuing on to another safari destination, you’ll have to take everything along with you.

On our most recent safari to the Masai Mara, I opted to take my spinner hard case and store it with AirKenya. I love my Bric’s X-Bag 22″ Folding Duffel . The large duffel bag is made from a water resistant materials, is sturdy and is classy with its leather trim. It easily folds down in to a small zippered pouch that is perfect for packing. The pouch also comes with a strap, so it can be used as a cross body purse.

You can use packing cubes to keep everything organized in the duffel and add a little extra sturdy protection. Choose lightweight ones like these Shacke water resistant packing cubes that come in a 4-pack of different sizes. And you’ll notice a theme where we like things that their pouch can be dual purpose. The pouch they come in makes a great laundry bag.

One other thing to invest in as a TSA approved clear toiletry bag, and this is essential for your Kenya packing list. Some African countries like Kenya and Tanzania have banned single-use plastic bags, inclusive of the ones provided by the airport. Kenya’s plastic bag ban law is the strictest in the world. Not only are plastic bags confiscated, but anyone caught using them faces a maximum penalty of $37,000 or a jail term of up to four years.

DO NOT bring any sort of plastic bag in to Kenya or Tanzania. Instead, especially if you like to carry on, get a TSA approved clear toiletry bag. I have the Lermende clear toiletry bag I’ve used for a while. It’s been accepted at many airports and I’ve never had an issue using it to carry on my liquids.

2. African Safari Clothes

Know that the 15 kilo weight allotment adds up quickly. When it comes to what to wear in Africa, comfort should be prioritized over anything else when you’re spending time in the African bush. But packing sensibly doesn’t have to mean frumpy, either.

Laundry Service

Another perk of luxury safaris like SkySafari and Angama Mara is that laundry service is included at their camps and lodges. Knowing we had laundry service available helped us pare down to the essentials for our 10-day safaris in Tanzania and Kenya.

With laundry service available, you don’t need to pack any more than 2 pairs of pants, 2 long sleeve shirts and one pair of pajamas. We recommend bringing enough underwear for your entire trip or washing them out yourself since it is considered taboo to include your underwear in your laundry in Africa (and some camps or lodges like Loisaba Lodo Springs will not wash them). Soap flakes are usually provided to wash out whatever you’d like yourself in your tent or room.

Where to Buy Safari Clothes

You don’t need to head out to any special store to buy clothes for an African safari. Chances are you have some perfectly suitable things already in your wardrobe. If not, we recommend your favorite outdoor retailer for safari appropriate clothing.

We like Columbia Sportswear , personally, since their outdoor clothing is made with their special material. Look for pants with Omni-Shield that keeps you dry by repelling moisture and stains and Omni-Shade with built in SPF 50 to protect you from the sun, like the women’s Saturday Trail stretch pants .

Then I add pieces like tank tops that I layer under an Old Navy classic chambray shirt . Chambray is stylish and lightweight enough to wear even during the hottest months. Roll the sleeves up to just below the elbow, and you can roll them down if/when you start to sunburn.

Pants and Long Sleeves

If you’re going on safari in East Africa in places like Kenya or Tanzania, then you’ll be just a few degrees away from the equator where the sun is strong. Even though it might seem counter intuitive to pack pants and long sleeves when the weather will be hot, you’ll be glad you did for protection from the sun. Even Tim learned this lesson when he opted for shorts and ended up with painfully sun-burnt knees after a game drive in the hot sun in Meru National Park.

Long sleeves and pants also help minimize bites and protect you from scrapes on walking safaris. Shorts, skirts and tank tops can be fine around the camp or lodge, but for game drives and bush walks stick to lightweight pants and long sleeve shirts.

Earth Tones

Clothing in earth tones is essential. Africa has a fly called the tsetse fly, which is a biting fly. They are attracted to dark blue and black, and tsetse fly traps are a blue or black cloth strung up in the trees where they are active.

Wearing blue or black makes you a tsetse fly trap and they can (and will) bite right through your clothing. Insect repellent is not effective in keeping tsetse flies away and the tsetse fly has been linked with a disease called sleeping sickness.

Utility Jacket

Game drives typically begin early and you’re out and about by 5am – 6am. The temperatures between night and day can be drastic, and you’ll practically experience all four seasons in one day.

Mornings are cool and a jacket is necessary. A cute utility jacket is also functional since all the pockets come in to use for easy access to lens cleaning cloths and lenses for your camera. You don’t have to spend a fortune – my Old Navy utili t y jacket was perfect.

Don’t bother with packing a rain jacket. Most safari companies provide ponchos for guests if you do have a rainy day. The safari vehicles also can be closed up. So skip the extra weight of a rain jacket that you may only need once or twice.

Light Scarf and a Hoo-rag

I also like to pack a light scarf . Wrap up it in to keep warm in the early morning, then use it to protect yourself from the sun when you strip off some layers under the hot midday sun.

In addition to a light scarf, which can whip in the wind and get snagged on bushes, I also recommend packing a hoo-rag . If you don’t know what a hoo-rag is, it’s a tubular bandana outdoor enthusiasts have included on their essential gear lists forever. You’ll definitely want one for going on safari because of the hoo-rag’s many purposes.

Ladies can use it as a headband to keep hair off your face on windy days. It will protect your head from the hot African sun no matter if you’re a man or woman. And it can serve as a scarf to keep your neck warm in the early morning or late evening when the air can have quite a bit of chill to it.

Safari Dress

I recommend only bringing along one casual dress for the evenings around camp. I do like to have one dressier outfit to make a night feel a bit more special. Columbia Sportswear Super Bonehead II Sleeveless Dress is 100% cotton, casual enough for wearing around a city like Nairobi during the day and can be dressed up for a night out.

Nearly every evening we arrived back around sunset and went straight to drinks around a campfire, a bush barbecue or hung out having a drink in the common lodge areas before dinner. We almost never went back to our tent or room to change first.

One ladies safari clothes essential is a sports bra . Trust me. The roads (or more likely dirt tracks) are bumpy and you will thank me for adding a sports bra to your safari packing list essentials.

Safari Footwear

You definitely don’t need to tote along heavy hiking boots. Not only will they be too hot, but hiking boots are clunky to pack. Really, any pair of sturdy closed-toe shoes will do.

Tim was perfectly fine with his usual Merrell Moab hiking shoe in Gortex , even on the bush walk we did along the Grumeti River in the Serengeti. These also held up like a champ in super muddy conditions, and were easy to clean after.

I prefer to wear a good pair fashion sneakers that I can dress up a bit with a cute dress in the evening. I like the Reef Cushion shoes since it has anatomical arch support and a cushioned foot bed that keeps me comfortable, even though I suffer from plantar fascitis. The tread is also good, so the Reef Iris can also be worn for bush walks.

I also like to bring a pair of lightweight waterproof hiking shoes like my Merrell Siren 3 . You’ll be thankful for a pair of waterproof shoes with good traction like this, particularly on wet days. Some parts of Africa don’t see rain often, and when it does rain the ground can quickly turn into a muddy river. This exact thing happened to us on a pretty wet morning in Nairobi at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

In Africa, flip flops are worn only around the pool. Bring a pair for walking around in your tent and going to the pool at your camp or lodge.

There’s really no special African safari hat you need, either. Stick to a wide brim style with a chin strap. The wide brim will help keep the sun off your face and neck. The chin strap will keep the hat from flying off when your guide gets word on the CB radio about that leopard or rhino sighting, then goes rushing off to make sure you see it.

I love the Columbia Global Adventure Hat because it’s packable. The hat retains its shape no matter how you stuff it in to your bag. And bonus that the hat has Columbia’s Omni-Wick technology with a sweat band inside and Omni-Shade SPF 50 protection. It definitely helped to keep my scalp from getting sunburned, which is a problem I always have being blonde.

Swim Suit and Casual Clothes for Around Camp

Many camps, especially luxury camps, have pools these days. There’s no better place to be than lounging in the pool during the hot afternoons between game drives. Don’t forget a swim suit!

You can also be more casual around camp in a pair of shorts and a tank top or tshirt. It’s not necessary to stick to neutral colors either, like when you’re out on game drives.

We like Old Navy , where you can find a variety of linen and linen-blend clothing items, at reasonable prices. Linen is perfect as a breathable fabric on hot afternoons.

Amazingly, we still saw tons of people inappropriately attired for safari. Not only will you stand out to other people, packing your favorite jeans or black shirt could also make you a magnet for tsetse flies. And your neon yellow trainers could scare off the animals on a bush walk.

3. Waterproof Bag

Dust is a problem and hard on your camera equipment. And if you have any rainy days like one we had, you’ll be combating both rain and sticky mud. Having a waterproof dry bag large enough to stick your equipment and anything else you want to stay dry or dust/mud free will definitely come in handy. It folds down small and weighs basically nothing, so is easy enough to pack.

4. Skin and Hair Care

The African bush is dry, so don’t leave home without your favorite moisturizer and a good conditioner. Even though all of the Elewana’s camps and lodges and Angama Mara provided shampoo and conditioner, I always prefer to bring my own.

You don’t need to bring the big bottle of your favorite shampoo and conditioner. I have a set of Cool Gear Go-Gear Silicone Travel Containers that are TSA approved and that I love. I just fill them back up with my L’Occitane Aromachologie Repairing Shampoo and Conditioner (which is sold in environmentally friendly refill bags) to keep my hair healthy at home and on the road.

For an incredible moisturizer, I love Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Cream . It doesn’t make my combination and sensitive skin breakout. And even in very dry Sub-Saharan Africa, my skin doesn’t get flaky and dry as long as I use moisturizer. A little goes a long way and I pare down from the somewhat heavy 2 oz jar the product comes in by scooping some out to fill my travel containers with.

Our lips also get very dried out and cracked in such dry conditions. I like Dr. Lipp’s Original Nipple Balm . It’s famous for being an ultra rich moisturizer that actually absorbs in to your lips to hydrate them and I’m a convert since I started using it.

The one other thing I’ve come to love to keep my skin at its best is my FOREO Luna Mini . It’s a facial cleansing brush that uses t-sonic pulsations to clean below the skin’s surface, remove dead skin and make-up and unclogs pores. It’s rechargeable and charging it up at home before a trip lasts around 30 days. It’s small and light enough that it’s easy to travel with. You use it for one minute each time you wash your face, and it’s seriously like getting a mini facial daily.

5. Plug Convertors

One of the things I love about Elewana Collection and Angama Mara is that all of their camps and lodges provide several universal plug adapters for your use in your room or tent. We always bring one of our own anyway, just in case. Plus having an extra means we can charge up all our electronic devices and camera batteries without having to pick and choose.

Africa uses 220 – 240 volt electricity at 50hz. Each country can be different with the plug type, so verify the plug type for the countries you’re visiting here before your trip.

Many electronics these days are dual voltage, meaning they can operate on the 110 volts that the US operates on as well as 220 – 240 volts that much of the rest of the world operates on with only a plug adapter. Cell phone chargers, camera chargers and even laptop chargers are all dual voltage these days and you need nothing more than a plug adapter to plug them in. Things like hairdryers and flatirons often are not dual voltage and require a convertor in order to use them.

6. USB Flash Drive and Memory Cards

Capturing some incredible photos to remember your time on safari by and share with family and friends back home is likely important to you. Some luxury safari brands like Angama Mara are offering guest experiences like photography workshops with their photographer in residence, or even just the opportunity to rent cameras or lenses.

The opportunity to borrow equipment is an excellent amenity to look out for, as good lenses appropriate for photographing wildlife can cost nearly as much as the trip itself. Just remember to pack a USB flash drive to save any photos from the cameras you borrow or bring your own extra memory cards to use.

7. Insect Repellent with Deet

Another thing Elewana and Anagama Mara were both terrific about was providing insect repellent and sunscreen in the safari vehicles. We would still encourage you to pack your own, though.

An insect repellent with deet is best since there are several diseases that biting insects in Africa can carry, including malaria. But if you’re concerned about the effects of deet, an all-natural citronella repellent will also get the job done. Just be sure you consistently spray yourself.

We were definitely diligent with spraying ourselves on both our skin with an all-natural citronella repellent and then again on our clothes every couple of hours. We had very minimal insect bites between dressing appropriately with long pants and consistently using repellent.

There is a risk of malaria in both Tanzania and Kenya. Malaria prevention is important when traveling to malaria endemic areas and in preparation for all of our safari trips, we have taken preventive malaria medication prescribed by a doctor. Runway Health is a service that makes routine doctor visits for things like preparing for safari travel a breeze. With just a short questionnaire about your travel plans and health history, Runway gives you an online consultation with a physician and ships your prescribed medications to you directly in just a few days.

8. First Aid Kit

Remember that you are in the African bush and the nearest town or village might be hours away by plane. Be sure to pack yourself a first aid kit with medications you might need like aspirin, cold medicine in case you do catch a bug, an antihistamine like Benadryl for reactions to insect bites, diarrhea medication like Immodium, sunscreen and cough drops or throat lozenges.

If you want to take something to head off diarrhea before it can start, try Travelan . You take it as a dietary supplement before meals to assist with traveler’s diarrhea prevention. Especially when traveling to Africa where your stomach isn’t conditioned to resist things that could be in treated and potable water, it’s a good preventative measure to take. Bathrooms are basically non-existent in the African bush and it’s not the place where you want to experience tummy woes.

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About Jennifer Dombrowski

Jennifer Dombrowski is an independent travel publisher and an American expat who has lived in Bordeaux, France since 2016. She previously lived in Northern Italy in a small village near Venice for seven years where she fell in love with wine and wine tourism. She is an award-winning travel writer. She is also a travel correspondent on Traveling on the American Forces Radio Network. Luxe Adventure Traveler was named one of the top travel blogs to watch by the Huffington Post and TripAdvisor, and has been featured by top publications such as National Geographic, CNN, Buzzfeed, and Business Insider. Jennifer's photography has also been featured on publications such as USA Today and Travel + Leisure and on the Travel Channel.

March 5, 2014 at 10:53 AM

Definitely a handy-list there, thanks for sharing. I would definitely have not thought to bring a fleece. BTW that one photo of “what not to wear on safari” is awesome LOL 😉

Jennifer Dombrowski says

March 10, 2014 at 3:17 PM

I really considered just leaving the fleece home. Surely I wouldn’t need it during Tanzania’s hottest month! But I ended up wearing it on a few occasions, so I was glad to have carried it with me in the end.

Heather says

March 5, 2014 at 5:07 PM

Great tips! I really need to get myself a waterproof bag, even just for rainy Europe.

And I second Derek, that “what not to wear’ photo is hysterical! Who would dress like that on safari? I’d be covered from head to toe to avoid insect bites! (And now I know not to wear blue or black!) 🙂

March 10, 2014 at 3:18 PM

Worst of all, we snapped the lovely lady in the floral jumper on a day that it was pretty chilly! She had to have been absolutely freezing in that get up.

Devlin @ Marginal Boundaries says

March 5, 2014 at 7:29 PM

Really good tips, I’ll make sure to leave my black shirts at home, don’t need to become a walking fly trap.

March 10, 2014 at 3:22 PM

No, you certainly don’t want to be a walking fly trap! Those tse tse flies really hurt when they bite and they will bite right through your clothes.

Val-This Way To Paradise says

March 6, 2014 at 5:21 AM

Great and helpful packing list! I would have to go shopping…almost everything I own is blue or black!

March 10, 2014 at 3:23 PM

I did a little safari shopping myself before the trip. Now I’m prepared for our next safari!

Travel with Kevin and Ruth says

March 6, 2014 at 4:39 PM

A yellow fever vaccination is NOT required for Tanzania unless you are arriving there from a country that has a risk of yellow fever.

March 6, 2014 at 6:40 PM

We didn’t say that the vaccination is required. We said that the yellow health card is required, which you must present upon arrival and lists your vaccination records.

March 6, 2015 at 9:46 PM

I read this blog too soon before my trip to do anything about the yellow fever issue. My wife and I just passed through immigration at JRO this morning so I thought I’d share my take, since this had me worried.

It’s true that they ask for the cert before your passport, but if you tell them you’re coming from the US, you don’t need it. That said, I think it’s a really good idea to get the shot before leaving the US, and it isn’t for any paranoia about contracting yellow fever or BS altruistic reason.

In our case, our connecting flight to JRO was from Kenya. Normally you wouldn’t have to go through Kenya immigration for this, but since our flight to JRO the previous night was cancelled, we did have to as we spent the night in Kenya. I think we were pretty lucky the official at JRO a didn’t ask too many questions or check our passports for the Kenyan visa.

You can also pay $50 USD at JRO to get the shot if you need it, but at that point you’re deciding to let someone in Africa stick a needle in you. Just get the shot in the US (or whatever first world country you’re visiting from) so you don’t need to worry about it further if your travel plans go south.

March 6, 2014 at 9:05 PM

What exactly is a “yellow fever health card”?

March 10, 2014 at 3:26 PM

It’s an official record of immunizations by the World Health Organization. Your primary care physician will have them on hand and properly fill them out for you after reviewing your medical records. This card is required and you must show it to officials upon entering Tanzania.

Suzanne says

March 7, 2014 at 5:40 AM

Great list! I had a ten day safari subject to a medium duffel bag only so I had to be super attentive to pack only what was needed. Surprised by so many people with multiple bags of luggage and all with the wrong clothes – blues, black, prints, hot pink, etc. I second the sports bra – a necessity! I would also add a few power bars or snacks for early morning game drive before breakfast – we often skipped our game drive coffee break as we were at a sighting.

March 10, 2014 at 3:28 PM

Good tips Suzanne! That was something else that we really enjoyed about SkySafari – our vehicle was also packed with drinks and snacks so we didn’t have to worry about the extra weight of bringing snacks with us. And even though you are mostly just sitting, you do still get the munchies!

Arianwen says

March 9, 2014 at 4:13 AM

Great tips! I made the mistake of only having two long-sleeved tops – one was blue and one was black. Those tsetse flies sure do sting when they bite!

March 10, 2014 at 3:30 PM

No kidding! Even with the earthy tones, a couple tse tse flies got me. And you sure do know when they bite! What a nuisance those things are.

March 9, 2014 at 8:24 PM

Thanks for sharing this really helpful list. I will definitely make use of it when I take part in my first Safari!

March 10, 2014 at 3:31 PM

I hope you make it on a safari soon, Stef. You will absolutely love it!

Ron | Active Planet Travels says

March 27, 2014 at 8:51 PM

Nice packing list! I’m going to have to look back on this in the Fall when I finally make it to Africa. So stoked!

Marsha says

April 11, 2014 at 8:13 PM

Great post. This list is very helpful. I’ll be keeping this in mind as I’m starting to plan my trip for the African safari next year. This will be so helpful…..awesome! And something I can keep in mind while I start planning. 🙂

Ellen Blau says

December 28, 2017 at 1:57 PM

From the Center for Disease Control Canada, here is the link: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/tanzania Proof of Yellow Fever Card is only needed from countries not on this list.

August 11, 2018 at 2:19 AM

Thanks for the great tips.

I totally understand the confusion on the yellow fever card being required or not. I thought it was not needed since we were coming from the US and headed directly to Tanzania. The issue was we were coming via Nairobi (although only there a day). If you come from Kenya, you will need the yellow fever card. I am so glad I figured that out before our trip as we were crossing into Tanzania on the boarder and not through an airport.

July 30, 2022 at 1:51 AM

Hi! This is so helpful! I was wondering if you think that shoes and backpacks should also be in light or neutral colors? Or does that not make as much of an impact in keeping the tsetse flies away?

July 31, 2022 at 12:20 PM

Yes, you should avoid black and navy at all – even for shoes or backpacks. You’ll see tsetse fly traps while in safari and these are just a piece of navy or black cloth hung up because these colors are that effective in attracting the flies. And unfortunately, there’s no spray or anything that deters them other than not having dark colors anywhere near you.

Hope that helps answer your question!

March 11, 2023 at 4:22 AM

Hi there! I’m planning for our trip in August. I’m wondering about the water. Do you think it’s wise to invest in one of those water bottles that has an internal filter? Also, I’m very prone to bug bites, and was considering bringing my portable diffuser (really small) and placing it by my bed with citronella oil to help with any night bites. Any helpful tips for sleeping and bug bites? Thank you!!!

Karol Young says

March 11, 2023 at 9:19 PM

You mentioned the all natural citronella repellent. Is there a particular brand to use. Also what about an after bug bite spray or lotion? Just in case

Anne MacKenzie says

September 21, 2023 at 10:31 PM

Great blog. I won’t be wearing my black trainers! Thank you so much for all the useful comments.

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Was sollte ich in meinen koffer packen, um nach kenia zu reisen.

Planen Sie Ihre erste Reise nach Kenia und fragen sich, was Sie in Ihren Koffer packen sollen? Dann sind Sie hier genau richtig!

Um zu vermeiden, dass du bei der Ankunft feststellst, dass du wichtige Dinge vergessen hast, oder um einfach zu vermeiden, dass du dich überforderst, findest du hier eine Liste mit den grundlegenden und wichtigsten Dingen, die du in dein Gepäck packen solltest. Denken Sie trotzdem daran, etwas Platz für die Mitnahme von Souvenirs freizuhalten!

Diese umfangreiche Liste der wichtigsten Dinge, die man für eine Reise nach Kenia einpacken sollte, kann dir dabei helfen, herauszufinden, was du in deinen Koffer packen solltest, und du wirst auch einige Tipps und Tricks finden, die du vor deiner Abreise kennen solltest.

[Sie können diese Packliste kostenlos ausdrucken]

• Vor der Abreise
• Die besten Unterkünfte in Kenia
• Die unentbehrlichen Dinge
• Nützliches Zubehör
• Empfohlene Aktivitäten
• Gute Tipps & nützliche Links

VOR DER ABREISE

› Bereiten Sie Ihre Reiseroute vor › Ein Visum beantragen (falls nötig) › Impfungen durchführen (falls erforderlich) › Check-up beim Arzt/Zahnarzt › Eine Reiseversicherung abschließen › Wichtige Dokumente (Reisepass) fotokopieren oder scannen. › Seine Bank benachrichtigen › Nützliche Apps auf das Smartphone herunterladen ( Maps.me, Uber, AirBnB, Netflix, Whatsapp, Tripadvisor, Booking, XE Currency Converter, Google translate.) › Die erste Nacht im Hotel buchen (siehe nächster Absatz)

DIE BESTEN UNTERKÜNFTE IN Kenia

Um Ihnen die Zeit zu sparen, sind hier ganz einfach die drei am besten bewerteten Hotels auf Booking.com und nach Preiskategorien geordnet. Es handelt sich um Affiliate-Links, d. h. wenn Sie sich für einen dieser Links entscheiden, erhalte ich eine Provision. Aber um ehrlich zu sein, sind dies Hotels, die ich jedem empfehlen würde, sogar meiner eigenen Familie oder meinen Freunden :

👉 Kleines Budget :  ?? (Preise und nützliche Infos)

👉 Mittleres Budget : ??  (Preise und nützliche Infos)

👉 Sehr komfortabel : ??  (Preise und nützliche Infos)

DIE UNENTBEHRLICHEN DINGE FÜR Kenia

› Reisepass: Stellen Sie sicher, dass er noch mindestens sechs Monate gültig ist und eine leere Seite hat. › Flugticket (auch bei einem elektronischen Ticket ist es hilfreich, eine Papierkopie zu haben, falls es Probleme gibt). › Visum (falls erforderlich) › Internationaler Führerschein (falls erforderlich) › Krankenversicherungskarte › EC-Karte › Bargeld › Nützliche Telefonnummern für Notfälle. › Adresse für ihre erste Hotelübernachtung › Smartphone + Ladegerät › Kleine Wasserflasche + Snacks

Koffer oder Rucksack? Wenn Sie vorhaben, sich unter schwierigen Bedingungen fortzubewegen, anstatt an einem Ort stationiert zu sein, ist ein Rucksack statt eines Koffers die bessere Idee. Die Wahl sollte auch davon abhängen, ob du eher in die Stadt oder in die Natur reist.

Denken Sie auch daran, mitzunehmen:

› Beutel für schmutzige Wäsche › Komprimierbare Taschen für die Gepäckorganisation

Ihr Reiseziel und die Art der Reise, die Sie planen, bestimmen, welche Kleidung Sie mitnehmen müssen. In ein Land mit ausgeprägten Jahreszeiten zu reisen bedeutet, dass Sie dicke Kleidung benötigen, eine Reise in ein warmes Land erfordert jedoch, dass Sie leichtere Kleidung mitnehmen.

Eine gute Faustregel ist, genug Kleidung für eine Woche mitzunehmen, bevor du Wäsche waschen musst. Natürlich, wenn die Reise nur für ein Wochenende ist, packen Sie entsprechend.

Ist es möglich, weniger mitzunehmen? Ja, aber dann müssen Sie Ihre Kleidung häufiger waschen. Etwas Waschpulver mitzunehmen, damit Sie Ihre Kleidung abends waschen können, ist eine gute Idee, vor allem in einem heißen Land. Die Wäsche kann am nächsten Tag trocken und wieder tragbar sein!

› Unterwäsche › Pyjama › Jacke › Shorts › Sweatshirt / Pullover › Hemden (mit kurzen Ärmeln) › Hemden (mit langen Ärmeln) › T-Shirts › Poloshirts › Röcke › Kleider › Warme Kleidung

Nehmen Sie am besten leichte und bequeme Schuhe mit.

› Sandalen › Flip-Flops › Sneakers / Wanderschuhe › Schuhe für Wanderungen › Abendschuhe › Schuhe zum Schwimmen › Sportschuhe

› Toilettenbeutel › Zahnbürste & Zahnpasta › Zahnseide › Seife & Shampoo › Gesichtsreiniger › Nagelknipser (im Frachtraum aufzubewahren) › Wattestäbchen (diese sind wiederverwendbar!) › Pinzette › Make-up › Deodorant › Kamm / Haarbürste › Rasierer & Rasierschaum › Biologisch abbaubare Tücher › Rolle biologisch abbaubares Toilettenpapier

NÜTZLICHES ZUBEHÖR

Einige empfohlene Reiseutensilien:

› Schlafsack › Bettlaken › Medikamente (gegen Durchfall, Seekrankheit, Paracetamol…) – Vorsicht vor verbotenen Medikamenten! › Sonnencreme: wichtig, wenn Sie viel Zeit im Freien verbringen wollen. › Handtuch › Mückenschutzmittel › Wasserdichter Beutel

› Schweizer Messer (im Frachtraum zu verstauen). › Vorhängeschloss › Mütze / Hut › Reiseführer (Buch oder Ebook) › Polarisierte Sonnenbrille › Reisekissen › Schlafmaske › Ohrstöpsel › LED-Stirnlampe › Verbandskasten (Desinfektionsmittel, Pflaster…) › Verhütungsmittel

Nicht zu vergessen:

› Ohrhörer oder Kopfhörer mit Geräuschunterdrückung › Speicherkarte für seine elektronischen Geräte › Kabel zum Aufladen › Wenn Sie fotografieren: Objektive, Stativ, Filter, Reinigungsset, externe Festplatte, USB-Stick. › GoPro-Zubehör: Batterien, Unterwassergehäuse, Selfie-Stange

EMPFOHLENE AKTIVITÄTEN

Hier finden Sie eine Auswahl der interessantesten Aktivitäten, die Sie in Kenia unternehmen können (denken Sie daran, vor Ihrer Abreise zu buchen!):

GETYOURGUIDELINK

GUTE TIPPS & NÜTZLICHE LINKS

› Offizielle Website des Fremdenverkehrsamtes › Kenia auf Wikipedia

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©Packliste-urlaub.com

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10 Things You Must Pack for Your Safari

Patrick has been an Africa travel specialist, based in Australia, for over 10 years and prior to that was a safari operator in Mana Pools in Zimbabwe.

You’ve waited months for your safari to finally come around. And now you have to decide what you must pack for your safari. Decisions, decisions, decisions. SafariBookings is here to help. Below are a few of our tips.

9,560 African Safaris

1. Passport, Itinerary, Travel Insurance Docs & Etickets

It seems obvious, but we would be remiss if we didn't put this at the top of the list of what you must pack for your safari.

2. Prescription Meds

Remember to put your prescription medications in your hand luggage (in case your check-in bag goes astray... it happens!)…and make sure you have enough of each type to last your entire safari.

3. Prescription Glasses (Sunglasses, Hat, Sunblock Et Al)

If you wear prescription glasses, be sure to pack more than one set (in case you lose one or they get broken). You will be outdoors for much of the time, so be prepared. Pack a hat, sunblock, long sleeves, and lip balm.

4. Camera, Video and Binoculars

Whilst most people will remember to take their camera and/or video (or will use their mobile phone), not everyone thinks they need to take binoculars! Binoculars are ESSENTIAL for optimum wildlife viewing on safari (and a GOOD pair of binoculars will make a BIG difference to your safari). We strongly recommend a pair of binoculars on safari. Get the most expensive you can afford (at least 8x or better still 10x magnification).

Africa is a photographer’s dream. Not only does the boundless wildlife come in all shapes and sizes, but the continent is also blessed with stunning landscapes, colorful people and fabulous light! Don’t miss out. Buy a camera, if you don’t already have one.

5. Clothes & Toiletries

Of course you’re not going to forget clothes! But are you taking the right clothes…and are you within those weight restrictions your travel agent told you about for those light aircraft flights? Most international airlines will restrict your check-in luggage to around 20 to 30kgs (55lbs). However, if your safari itinerary includes any light aircraft flights, then this can mean as little as 12 to 15 kgs (sometimes including your hand luggage!).

Don’t panic! Remember, a same-day laundry service is usually available in most safari camps and lodges. This means you DO NOT need a change of clothes for each day you are on safari! The exception will be for mobile tented safaris where it is often difficult, due the mobile nature, to offer a laundry service. It may also be possible to leave a bag with the charter company, or person meeting you, for the duration of the safari portion. When in doubt, ask your travel agent.

Casual but Comfortable

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable throughout the year when on safari. Whilst you may elect to start a completely new safari ‘wardrobe’ it is really not necessary to look like an extra on the set of Out of Africa! Apart from selecting reasonably neutral or ‘non-bright’ colored clothing, safari-wear is generally casual and practical. Be sure you take clothes that you feel comfortable in – especially when it comes to your walking/hiking boots. The newer quick-drying fabrics, shirts with ventilation and trousers that convert into shorts are all worth considering.

Layering Is Key

Wearing clothes in layers is the most practical way to cope with fluctuating day/night temperatures and cool evenings whilst on safari. As the day warms up you can peel off another layer. Then as it begins to cool toward evening, you can put them back on. Here's the "must-haves" to pack for your safari:

• A) T-shirt, shirt or blouse - long sleeves and collars help to protect from the sun and mosquitoes
• B) Fleece or warm jacket
• C) A pair of safari trousers - those that zip off at the knees are very handy, too
• D) Comfortable walking shoes (or boots) and socks
• F) Bandanna or cotton scarf and a sarong (kanga, pareo, kikoi)
• G) Maybe a pair of open sports sandals for general daytime use in warmer months
• H) Swimsuit -  a number of lodges and camps have swimming pools
• I) An elegantly casual outfit for dinner at the smarter hotels
• J) A light, compact raincoat if it is likely you will encounter rain (gorilla and chimp trekking)
• K) And, of course, your undergarments

Dull and/or neutral colors are more suitable for safari, white and/or bright colours are not practical as they tend to stand out – definitely not advisable on a walking safari. Cotton clothing is recommended although the newer synthetic safari clothing lines are quick drying and extremely comfortable.

Check the Weather

Ask your travel agent (or check online) and find out what the weather will be like where you are going. You may not need any serious cold weather gear at all (and that will really help with the luggage limit!). Alternatively, if you are going anywhere in winter where the temperature drops dramatically when the sun goes down, you may need gloves, a scarf, a thick jacket and a beanie!  Places like Hwange, Okavango, Linyanti and even Kruger are freezing in the early morning and late evening during the winter months (June through August). And this is magnified by a significant wind-chill factor that you'll feel when on the back of an open game-drive vehicle.

6. Phone, Music, Tablet or Laptop

What you must pack for your safari are your phone, music, tablet or laptop - and their respective chargers,  country-specific adaptor plugs.

7. Preventative Pharmaceuticals

This is just a fancy way of saying ‘meds’ – stuff you need, just in case the worst happens: diarrhea, headaches, heartburn, insect repellent, hand sanitizer, bites (antihistamine), indigestion, sore throat (lozenges),  eye drops, and most important – anti-malarial tablets.

8. Odds & Ends

A good torch (flashlight) is a must. It can be pitch black in the bush or in your tent in the middle of the night. A rechargeable torch is ideal but a small battery-powered torch is sufficient. The new LED miner’s lights that fit on your head (and leave your hands free) are also a good option. A smaller (pencil) torch for emergencies or looking at star maps is also worth considering. Most camps will provide a torch, or will walk you back to your tent as required, but being self-sufficient is always a good idea.

A good book. It never hurts to have an interesting book when travelling. You never know when you are going to be delayed at the airport or fall victim to Africa time! A travel diary or journal is something we recommend. You will see and experience so much in such a short period of time on safari, that the only way to maintain a good record of it will be to write it down. It does require discipline, but will serve as an invaluable record of your safari adventure.

9. Hand Luggage

Firstly, try to restrict your hand luggage to one item only, if for no other reason than more than one item makes travel that much harder. And, yes, a handbag qualifies as a second item! Obviously, that one item should be of a size that is acceptable as carry-on luggage by the airlines. If you are a photographer, then this will mean you must have sufficient space in your camera bag for travel documents, your prescription medication and/or glasses, binoculars and even a change of clothes. Bear in mind that restrictions on what can and cannot be taken on board an aircraft are still in place – including for liquids, flammables and sharp objects. The rules change frequently, so please double-check and take heed.

10. Finally, Don’t Forget Your Sense of Humor, Patience and Some Common Sense!

It is not advisable to wear any form of clothing that may be construed as “camouflage”. By this we mean any form of brown/green “combat” style coloring. Even if it is the latest fashion statement – and even if it is your 14 year old wearing it – and even if it is just a cap. Many African authorities have a disproportionate phobia about such garments and this could conceivably result in you being questioned or harassed by the police. It has the potential to cause you grief, so don’t do it. Do not take any expensive personal jewelry on safari. Be minimalist or take only those everyday items that you normally wear, like your wedding band, inexpensive earrings.

With regard to securing your luggage, we would strongly suggest using one or more combination locks to secure zips together if your suitcase does not have its own locking mechanism. Luggage tampering in airports does occur, unfortunately. Luggage straps that wrap around your suitcase can also deter, whilst shrink-wrapping facilities are available at some airports.

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4-Day Maasai Mara and Lake Nakuru Luxury Safari

$1,276 to $2,134 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Nairobi (End)

Kenya Tulia Safari Holiday Arcade

5.0 /5  –  48 Reviews

5-Day Living Among Lions - Luxury

$2,590 to $3,510 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Unlimited Expeditions: The Soul of Tanzania

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11-Day Serengeti and Zanzibar Safari

$3,905 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro, Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Zanzibar (End)

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Flooding Inundates Kenya, Killing at Least 32 and Displacing Thousands

Heavy rains also pounded other nations in East Africa, including Tanzania, where at least 155 people were killed, according to the country’s prime minister.

Residents in Nairobi were stranded on Tuesday after a night of heavy rainfall. Credit... Daniel Irungu/EPA, via Shutterstock

Supported by

By Abdi Latif Dahir and Jesus Jiménez

Abdi Latif Dahir reported from Nairobi, Kenya, and Jesus Jiménez from New York.

• April 24, 2024

Days of torrential rains have pummeled parts of Kenya, leaving at least 32 dead, 15 injured and more than 40,000 people displaced, according to officials. The flooding has killed nearly 1,000 farm animals and destroyed thousands of acres of crops, with more rain expected across the country in the coming days.

The rains began in March during what is known in the country as the “long rains,” but intensified over the past week, according to the Kenya Meteorological Department .

Heavy rains have also pounded other nations across East Africa. In Tanzania, at least 155 people were killed and 236 others injured from the relentless rain that has swept several parts of the country in recent days, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa said on Thursday.

The rains affected some 200,000 people, Mr. Majaliwa added, and caused damage to farms, bridges, roads, schools and places of worship. The Tanzania Meteorological Authority warned that heavy rains and strong winds would continue to pummel several towns and cities, including the port city of Dar es Salaam.

In Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, where some of the country’s heaviest rain has fallen, more than 30,000 people have been displaced, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs . On Tuesday, 18 people there were stranded and later rescued, including seven children, the Kenya Red Cross Society said.

Edwin Sifuna, the Nairobi County senator, said on social media that the local government there was “clearly overwhelmed,” and he called on the federal government for help.

“The situation in Nairobi has escalated to extreme levels,” he wrote in a post that included a video of people stranded on rooftops surrounded by floodwaters.

Kithure Kindiki, cabinet secretary for the Interior Ministry, said in a social media post on Thursday that several government agencies were beginning a joint operation to assist the victims, conduct rescues and evacuate those who remain at risk.

The heavy rains on Wednesday forced Kenya Railways to suspend commuter train services. The Kenya Urban Roads Authority also partially closed four major roads in Nairobi and warned of heavy flooding along several major highways in the capital and in the coastal city of Mombasa.

The rains were not expected to subside over the next few days, according to the Kenya Meteorological Department, which had rain in the forecast for parts of the country, including Nairobi, through Monday. The agency also warned of a high likelihood of breakouts of diseases such as malaria and diarrhea in some areas.

The latest downpours come just months after torrential rains and floods killed dozens of people and displaced thousands more nationwide.

Here are photographs of the flooding in Kenya:

A flooded river in Mathare, a sprawling shantytown in Nairobi where many live in tin shacks.

Swimming through floodwaters to try to rescue people stranded in their homes in Mathare. Most of those displaced in Nairobi live in informal settlements, according to the United Nations.

Residents of Mathare tried to salvage goods from their homes. Many people in Nairobi live in high-density areas that lack proper roads, water or power infrastructure.

Residents in Mathare trying to clear muddy water from their homes. Missing or blocked drainage systems have been blamed for exacerbating the floods.

Clinging to buses and trucks to avoid flooded roads in Nairobi.

Homes in several neighborhoods across the capital were submerged, leading to evacuations.

The torrential rains affected almost half of Kenya’s 47 counties, according to the United Nations.

Using a boat to traverse floodwaters in the Githurai area of Nairobi.

Flooding inundated entire roadways in Machakos County, about 35 miles southeast of Nairobi.

The swollen Athi River. The river burst its banks and flooded homes in Machakos County, officials said.

Abdi Latif Dahir is the East Africa correspondent for The Times, based in Nairobi, Kenya. He covers a broad range of issues including geopolitics, business, society and arts. More about Abdi Latif Dahir

Jesus Jiménez covers breaking news, online trends and other subjects. He is based in New York City. More about Jesus Jiménez

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