Kenya Safari Packing List

Passport, Itinerary, Travel Insurance Documents & tickets

Before anything else, always park these documents first and put them as a first priority on your safari. These documents give you access during the safari and also be able to plan wise. These documents must be with you whenever you go in order not to lose them. You can also photocopy them and keep the original copies in a safe place as a backup plan.

Prescription Medicines

Remember to put your prescription medications in your hand luggage and make sure you have enough of each type to last your entire safari. This preparation will help you in remote areas where you can’t access clinics or hospitals for these medications. Most times even if you access them, there are high chances of you not to get the exact medications.

Prescription Glasses (Sunglasses, Hat, Sunblock)

If you wear prescription glasses, make sure to pack more than one set in case they get broken. You will be outdoors for much of the time, so be prepared. Pack a hat, sunblock, long sleeves, and lip bam.

Camera, Video and Binoculars

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 making a big difference to your safari. We strongly recommend a pair of binoculars on safari. However, some destinations have these things and you can hire them in case you don’t have your own.

Clothes & Toiletries

Most international airlines will restrict your check-in luggage to around 20 to 30kgs. However, if your safari itinerary includes any light aircraft flights, then this can mean as little as 12 to 15kgs. Don’t panic! Remember, a same-day laundry service is usually available in most safari camps and lodges. This means you don’t 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.

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. These will give you a relax and I you are on a business trip; your laptop should also always be not forgotten.

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, indigestion, sore throat, eye drops, and most important anti-malarial tablets among others depending on your treatment or allergies.

Odds & Ends

A good torch 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 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.