What To Pack For A Safari

When preparing for your safari in Kenya, pack lightly and use layers, as local airlines often limit luggage to 15 kilos per person, including carry-ons. Soft-sided or folding duffel bags are recommended. Your packing should include essential items such as clothing for safaris, comfortable shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, medication, and camera gear.

Travel Documents:
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your departure date and has at least two blank pages. Carry your health cards (vaccination certificates as required), airline tickets, credit cards, and insurance papers. Ensure all documents are up-to-date.

Clothing:
Pack lightweight, loose-fitting clothes in neutral shades like khaki and forest green, which are ideal for the safari environment. Avoid camouflage clothing as it's prohibited in East Africa. A fleece or light jacket is recommended for early morning game drives. Most lodges provide laundry services, so pack minimally. Essentials include short and long-sleeve shirts, safari pants/shorts, comfortable socks, swimwear, and smart casual dinner attire if you plan to visit upscale lodges.

Footwear:
Comfortable walking shoes or classic safari boots are ideal for safari. Flip-flops or sandals are also useful for poolside or in-room use.

Sun Protection & Insect Repellent:
Pack sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and any prescription glasses you need. Bring your preferred insect repellent, ideally containing DEET, or a natural option like citronella.

Medication:
Pack necessary personal medications, especially those that may not be available locally. For basic over-the-counter needs, Nairobi pharmacies can provide pain relief, malaria tablets, and more. Carry prescriptions for any medication brought into Kenya.

Cameras & Electronics:
Bring your camera and binoculars for safari photography, as East Africa offers stunning photo opportunities. If you're a serious photographer, a laptop for image storage and processing is highly recommended. Spare batteries and travel adaptors (for plug type G) are essential.

Other Essentials (Items of Personal Nature)
Don’t forget toiletries, sanitary products, hand sanitizers, a small sewing kit, and personal items like a money pouch, alarm clock, notebook, and reading materials.

Flying to Masai Mara:
While flying to Masai Mara is quick (1 hour) compared to a 5-6 hour drive, flights are more expensive, especially for groups. Luggage restrictions (15 kilos) may also be a challenge, especially for photographers with heavy equipment. Small planes, usually Cessnas, are used for these flights.