What to pack for Kenya Safari?
What you pack for the Kenya safari does matter a lot regardless of whether you are a first-time or an experienced traveler. Packing for Kenya safari like any African safari can be challenging but, what is required of you is simply to do it rightly and lightly. No need to bring the whole house of items for the Kenya safari. When packing, be guided by the weather and you will definitely be guaranteed a remarkable Kenya holiday.
Kenya by far provides a wide range of experiences from lively wilderness to authentic cultural encounters, self-drive and camping, beach holidays, honeymoon to city experiences. There is more to explore and experience on the Kenya safari trip and to ensure that you enjoy the most of it, here are some of the essentials to consider on your packing list.
- Safari shoes
Different safaris require different kinds of safari shoes and that said, if you are visiting Kenya for hiking or bushwalking, then lightweight and comfortable hiking or walking shoes are preferable. Find better hiking boots/shoes with good grip and when searching for a pair or two, ensure that you consider lightweight ones to allow you to have a smooth walk.
- Safari hats & sun protection
Wide-brimmed safari hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen lotions are some of the key items any nature lover should consider packing for a Kenya safari. Visiting Kenya means you will be in a different environment with unique weather and climate. While back home issues of scorching sunshine aren’t there, in Kenya, things might be different, and not to take you unaware, it is vital to be fully prepared.
To protect your neck, face, and head from sun heat, a wide-brimmed safari hat can do you pretty well. Your skin might be sensitive and one way to have it safeguarded is to apply sunscreen lotion. Also, a pair of sunglasses play an important role especially in protecting your eyes from dust, sun rays, and more.
- Insect repellent
Though some accommodation facilities do offer insect repellents, it is also important to have your own brand and it also saves you from being taken unaware when you don’t find one on an actual safari at your destination. The most preferable and recommended insect repellent to look out for would be repellants containing DEET. These are known for their effectiveness against most insects. In case you have any concerns about the effects of DEET, it is advisable that you first consult your pharmacist or doctor back home.
- Medication/First Aid kit
Visiting Kenya isn’t an ordinary trip. Your experience revolves around the bush/wilderness and generally, change in the environment comes with its own challenges. To be fully prepared, it is advisable to carry some prescribed medication and you can consult your doctor back home to guide you on which one to have.
Essentially, you require pain relievers, anti-malaria pills, and more. Before setting off for your Kenya safari to any destination, you can check for some of the prescribed medications in Nairobi. Any other prescription that may be required of you to present at the airport should be packed.
- Cameras, extra batteries
Almost every safari ends with photography and definitely, you don’t want to miss every bit of Kenya safari. This is why packing good cameras plus extra batteries is essential if you are planning to visit Kenya soon for a holiday. There are many photography opportunities in Kenya and that is why you need a good camera to let you capture your best pictures.
Also, a pair of binoculars is key and especially for avid birders on the Kenya safari holiday. In addition, you may need a laptop with a good battery or hard disk to help you keep moving your images in the evening while back at your lodge or hotel.
Another important item not to miss is travel socket adaptors. When choosing the kind of adaptors, we recommend plug type G with 3 rectangular pins in a triangular pattern as it is widely used in Kenya. The supply voltage in Kenya operates on 240V and 50Hz.
- Clothes
Not every cloth is fit for Kenya safari. The most preferable attire for Kenya safaris should be environmentally friendly- find something neutral that blends with the natural environment and try as much as you can to avoid bright colors. Khaki and forest green colors are some of the available options to consider and avoid camouflaged military pattern clothes because wearing them is unlawful. They are worn by the forces and not to be disturbed, and come with recommended safari attire.
When packing clothing for a Kenya safari, the essentials include a rain jacket, trousers, pair of swimwear, a long-sleeved t-shirt or shirt, a pair or 2 of safari shorts, a pair of socks preferably cotton type, and others. Try as much as you can to dress decently and be mindful of local cultures.
Other items to carry
Other essentials to consider on your Kenya safari packing list include toiletries. The long list of toiletries to consider packing for your safari in Kenya include deodorants, shampoo, hand sanitizer, sanitary products for the case ladies, moisturizers, wet wipes, toothbrush, toothpaste, and conditioner to mention but a few. You may also need some reading materials, a money belt, a pen, a notebook, and more.
Daypack
A waterproof daypack is one essential item you should consider packing on your Kenya safaris. A daypack plays a vital role for safari goers in Kenya as it can be used to keep safe your essential documents.
Travel itinerary, insurance, passport, and e-tickets among others
While to some travelers, the above seems obvious to them, some people can easily forget to pack them. Don’t be left stuck on an actual trip when asked about some of the above items, simply make sure they are among the first items to be packed.
When to visit Kenya?
When packing for a Kenya safari tour, it is vital to be guided by weather conditions. Inquire from your tour operator on the ground what the weather is or will be like depending on the destination you plan to visit, but drier months run from June to August.