Plentiful Adventures
Safari gear and binoculars laid out for a Kenya trip
Packing Guide

What to Pack for Safari

Packing for a Kenya safari is simpler than you think. The key is layering for temperature swings, choosing neutral colors, and respecting luggage limits — especially on light aircraft transfers.

Clothing Essentials

Safari style is functional, not fashionable. Neutral earth tones (khaki, olive, tan, brown) blend with the environment and don't attract insects. Avoid bright whites, dark blacks, and blue denim.

  • Long-sleeved shirts in neutral colors (3-4)
  • Convertible pants or lightweight trousers (2-3)
  • Warm fleece or softshell jacket for morning game drives
  • Wide-brimmed hat and quality sunglasses
  • Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
  • Swimsuit (many lodges have pools)

Camera & Optics

Wildlife photography is a safari highlight. A decent zoom lens (at least 200mm) makes all the difference. Bring more memory cards and batteries than you think you'll need — charging opportunities can be limited at remote camps.

  • Camera with 70-300mm or 100-400mm zoom lens
  • Binoculars (8x42 or 10x42 recommended)
  • Extra memory cards (64GB minimum total)
  • Portable battery bank for phone/camera charging
  • Beanbag or window mount for stable shots from the vehicle

Health & Toiletries

Sun protection and insect repellent are non-negotiable. Most lodges provide basic toiletries, but bring personal medications and any specific products you rely on.

  • High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+)
  • DEET-based insect repellent
  • Prescription medications in original packaging
  • Basic first aid kit (plasters, painkillers, anti-diarrheal)
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes

Luggage Rules

If your safari includes light aircraft transfers (e.g., fly-in to Masai Mara), luggage is strictly limited to 15kg in a soft-sided duffel bag. Hard suitcases are not allowed on bush planes. Even for road safaris, soft bags are easier to fit in vehicle storage.

  • Soft-sided duffel bag (not a rigid suitcase)
  • 15kg weight limit for bush flights
  • Small daypack for game drives
  • Leave valuables at your Nairobi hotel safe

Recommended

Related Safari Packages

Frequently Asked Questions

What colors should you not wear on safari?+
Avoid bright white (reflects sun and scares animals), dark black or navy blue (attracts tsetse flies), and camouflage patterns (restricted in some East African countries and may cause issues at checkpoints).
Do you need malaria tablets for Kenya?+
Yes, anti-malarial medication is recommended for most safari areas in Kenya including the Masai Mara, Amboseli, and coastal regions. Consult your doctor at least 4-6 weeks before travel for the latest prophylaxis recommendations.
Can I charge my phone on safari?+
Most lodges and tented camps have charging stations, though some remote bush camps may have limited power hours (typically generator-powered). Bring a portable battery bank to keep devices charged during game drives.
Is Wi-Fi available on safari?+
Many mid-range and luxury lodges offer Wi-Fi in common areas, though speeds vary and connectivity can be intermittent in remote locations. Disconnecting is part of the safari experience for many travelers.

Need Help Planning Your Safari?

Our team can advise on packing, logistics, and everything else to make your Kenya safari seamless.