Kenya safari packing list

Kenya safari: What to pack and wear

Although Kenya straddles the Equator, and daytime temperatures on the coast and at most altitudes range from warm to hot, it can become cool at night inland, so warm clothing should also be included, and is especially useful for early-morning game drives. Sunglasses, suntan lotion, lip balm, shady hats, insect repellent and a torch are all useful. Don’t forget your swimming costume for the occasional dip in a pool.

If you’re planning to do a walking safari during your time in Kenya, you should pack clothing in muted safari colours. Brown, dark beige, khaki and green are ideal. White and bright colours and even cream or pale beige are not ideal as they attract the attention of animals. Dark blue and black colours may also attract biting flies.

If you want to take a hairdryer, be aware that opportunities to use it on safari may be limited, as many camps’ electrical supplies cannot cope with their use. Coast and town hotels with a mains supply are no problem, and often provide hairdryers in the rooms.

Bath towels and bathroom toiletries (shower gel, shampoo, conditioner) are invariably provided by hotels, lodges and safari camps. Many camps and lodges supply mosquito repellent and mosquito nets or mosquito-proof tents. As most camps have a good laundry service, which is often included in the price, we recommend you keep your luggage light.

Packing checklist

Passport
Visa
Insurance details (please see our travel insurance page for more information)
Cash (Kenya shillings or US dollars are the most useful currencies)
Credit card
Warm clothes (possibly including hat and gloves)
A lightweight jacket or waterproof
Sunhat
Sunglasses
Footwear (including walking shoes/boots if appropriate)
Swimwear
Binoculars
Camera
Mobile/cell phone (see note on mobile phones, later in this booklet)
Chargers and adapters (Kenya uses type G plugs, with three rectangular pins, as used in the UK)
Torch
Malaria prophylaxis
Sunscreen
Basic medical kit (antiseptic, plasters, rehydration salts, etc) Any prescription medicines (with the relevant prescription)

Mobile (cell) phones and internet on safari

Mobile phones are very widely used in Kenya and cellphone masts have been installed across the country, even in remote areas. 3G and 4G signals are widely available. If you take your mobile phone with you, it will most likely automatically partner with a local “roaming” provider, enabling you to make and receive calls and use data. However, roaming charges are very high, so you are recommended to keep usage to a minimum, and restrict your data usage to when you have access to WiFi, which many hotels, and some lodges and camps offer.

Alternatively, if your phone is unlocked (ie not contractually tied to your service provider), then you can buy a local SIM card on arrival in Kenya, and substitute your home SIM for your Kenyan SIM, allowing you to use local cheap airtime and data rates. Ask your consultant at Expert Africa if you would like advice on this.

Our top picks for holidays to Kenya

We'll always tailor-make your Safari for you. Here are some of our favourites to inspire you.

Black Kite Fly-in Safari

10 days • 4 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

Explore Kenya in-depth with visits to Nairobi and Meru national parks, the Mara Conservancies and Amboseli. Nestled in remoter regions, four camps provide fantastic access to rich game, a range of activities and beautifully diverse landscapes.

US$10,410 - US$14,150 per person

Elephant Safari

10 days • 3 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

This example of a mid-range Kenya safari and beach trip explores the wildlife of Tsavo West's volcanic plains and woodlands, Tsavo East's immense plains and the white-sand beaches and lush environment of Diani Beach.

US$5,770 - US$6,210 per person

De Brazza Monkey Fly-in Safari

9 days • 3 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

Enjoy a range of activities in the remote wilderness of northern Kenya before exploring the wildlife-rich plains of the Mara ecosystem. Private vehicles and guides heighten the personalisation of this highly immersive safari.

US$13,540 - US$16,320 per person

Hamerkop Fly-In Safari

8 days • 2 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

Different wildlife, contrasting camps and a whole host of activities, this is a safari for those wanting to get out and about and not just sit in a vehicle.

US$7,120 - US$10,960 per person

Rothschild Giraffe Safari

8 days • 3 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

A example of a luxury Kenyan safari, starting at the iconic Giraffe Manor before fabulous stays on the spectacular Solio Reserve and Sala’s Camp in a remote corner of the Maasai Mara.

US$12,650 - US$17,830 per person

Big Cat Fly-in Safari

8 days • 2 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

Combining two of Kenya’s best wildlife-viewing areas, this slow-paced safari to the Lewa Conservancy and Maasai Mara guarantees iconic wildlife. The long-established, well-rated camps are great value, too.

US$5,690 - US$8,850 per person

Golden Jackal Fly-in Safari

8 days • 2 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

A contrasting safari of a lodge and a tented camp, with action-packed activities in Laikipia and wildlife-filled game drives in the Maasai Mara, offers a consistently high-quality experience.

US$11,040 - US$14,130 per person

Lanner Falcon Fly-In Safari

8 days • 3 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

Three sister camps offer access to wonderfully remote regions across northern Kenya and the Maasai Mara ecosystem. Enjoy an exclusive safari experience focused on great wildlife, superb guiding and considerable comfort, with a range of activities.

US$7,140 - US$8,400 per person

African Finfoot Fly-in Safari

7 days • 3 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

After a unique start in Nairobi National Park, classic, luxurious camps combine for a high-end and exclusive safari in fantastic wildlife destinations.

US$11,230 - US$17,340 per person

Steppe Eagle Fly-in Safari

7 days • 2 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

Two comfortable tented camps overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro and Mara River put you at the heart of the action. Experience spectacular diversity in species and habitat with safari in Samburu and the Masaai Mara National Reserve.

US$6,140 - US$9,310 per person

View all holidays in Kenya

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