What to Carry on Safari
Safari packing is simpler than most travellers expect. The environments are warm during the day, cool at night and generally dusty. Neutral colours are conventional for good reason — animals respond to movement rather than colour, but dark blues and blacks attract tsetse flies in some regions. Bright colours and white are avoided. Beyond these basics, the guiding principle is to pack less rather than more. Most private lodges offer same-day laundry.
Note that internal charter flights between safari camps operate with strict luggage weight limits — typically 15kg total, in a soft-sided bag rather than a hard suitcase. Plan your luggage accordingly before departure.
Clothing
Safari dress is relaxed, practical and understated. Mornings and evenings on game drives can be cold even in summer — a warm layer is not optional. Afternoons are hot. Layering is the correct approach throughout.
- Lightweight walking shoes or trainers
- Sandals for camp
- Wide-brim hat or cap
- Light windbreaker or fleece jacket for morning drives
- 2–3 pairs of lightweight safari trousers in neutral tones
- 1–2 pairs of shorts
- 3–4 breathable short-sleeve shirts
- 1 long-sleeve shirt for sun and insect protection
- Casual evening outfit — smart but relaxed
- Swimwear for properties with pools or water activities
- Comfortable sleepwear
Health and Personal
- Malaria prophylaxis if prescribed — begin the course before departure as directed
- Personal prescription medications in original packaging with sufficient supply
- High-SPF sunscreen — reapply frequently in open vehicles
- Lip balm with SPF
- Insect repellent containing DEET
- Basic toiletries — most lodges provide shampoo, conditioner and soap
- Hand sanitiser
- Any required vaccination certificates — yellow fever may be mandatory depending on origin country
Photography and Technology
A camera with a zoom lens is more useful on safari than a wide-angle. Animals are observed at distance — the ability to fill the frame at range matters more than any other camera specification. If you are using a phone, a lightweight tripod or beanbag for vehicle use makes a significant difference.
- Camera with zoom lens — 100–400mm range ideal for wildlife
- Spare camera batteries and memory cards
- Binoculars — 8×42 or 10×42 are standard for safari
- Power bank for charging on game drives
- Universal travel adapter — Kenya and Tanzania use flat three-pin UK-style plugs
- Laptop or tablet if needed for work — most lodges have WiFi, though connectivity is limited in remote areas
Documents and Essentials
- Passport — valid for at least six months beyond your return date
- Printed and digital copies of your ETA, visa or entry authorisation
- Travel insurance policy details including emergency evacuation cover
- Emergency contact numbers
- Any pre-booked activity permits — gorilla trekking permits in particular must be carried
- Small amount of local currency for tips — USD is widely accepted across East Africa
Luggage
Internal charter flights between safari camps carry strict weight limits — typically 15kg total per person including hand luggage. Hard suitcases are not accepted on most bush aircraft. Use a soft duffel bag or soft-sided holdall. Many travellers leave a hard suitcase at their Nairobi or Johannesburg hotel and travel to the bush with a smaller soft bag.
For health preparation specific to Kenya: Vaccinations and Health Guide for Kenya Safari
For entry documentation: Africa Entry Requirements
For journey planning: African Safari Guide
Kenya Wildlife Service — kws.go.ke
Tanzania National Parks — tanzaniaparks.go.tz