Prepare For Safari
From the combined experience of guide and clients we have put together some useful formation to help planning your safari to East Africa.
Clothes
Carry a change of cloths in your hand luggage in case your bags get lost during air travel.
Comfortable, casual, cotton clothing is recommended for your travels in tropical Africa as the organic material allows your skin to breath, in the hot, humid climate.
During while on safari try to avoid bright colors which can frighten any animals.
Trousers or long skirts are recommend after dark to stop the mosquitoes biting. And a sweater is also advisable as evenings and early mornings can be chilly.
Many hotels, lodges and camps have swimming pools so be sure to carry some swimwear.
Personal towel & a sun proof hat can protect you from sweat & dust which builds up around your face during the safari.
A pair of sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended, with sandals for time by the pool and around the camp.
While in East Africa always remember you are a guest in another country so please respect the culture and religion by wearing appropriate clothing.
Personal Items
- 1 litre water bottle (essential)
- Toothbrush/toothpaste
- Shampoo & hair conditioner
- Deodorant
- Comb/ hair brush, nail brush
- Razor & blades (preferable battery operated shaver)
- Sun lotion/ After Sun
- Lip balm
- Hand cream & Moisturising Cream
- Insect repellent
- Tissues or disposable moist tissues (eg Wet Ones)
- Plastic bag (to pack wet/ dirty clothing)
- Sunglasses or Spectacles (if worn)
- Pen for immigration formalities
- 1 note book
- Map of Kenya (Normally available at boutiques)
Luggage
Space for luggage is very limited on safari and for safety your luggage should not exceed to more than 12 kg. Soft duffel bags are ideal as hard bodied suitcases make packing in vehicles and light aircraft a nightmare.
A small handbag or day pack is essential for holding money, digital cameras, water, and travel documents inside the safari vehicle.
Medical
We suggest that you take along the following:-
- Plasters
- Aspirins/ paracetamol
- Anti-diarrhea pills and laxatives (consult your pharmacist for advice)
- Antiseptic cream
- Insect bite cream
- Eye drops
- Anti-malaria tablets (consultant your local travel clinic)
- Any other medicines & toiletries you regularly use
- Re-hydrate powder/ sachets
Camera and Video Camera’s
Today a camera or video camera is considered an essential part of any safari. With digital camera’s one can take hundreds of pictures at very little cost. When planning on how much film or what size memory card to take always double it then double it again. The same goes for the batteries. Before recharging batteries at camps and lodges always check with the Camp Manager first as many camps run on generator which may harm your equipment.
Taking pictures of people in East Africa usually is OK but always ask permission before taking a photograph of the locals (eg the Masai) as in many cases, payment is expected.
Kindly ensure you keep this equipment with great safety from theft as we are not responsible for loss of any personal items
Binoculars
A pair of Binoculars is essential to fully appreciate the diversity of colors and shapes in the bush. Birds are often several meters away and binoculars can help to identify the Bird.
Water
Water is a very precious commodity in Africa, therefore please use it sparingly, especially for baths.
It is advisable to always drink mineral water from sealed bottles as tap water may be untreated from bore holes.
Important
- Please dress appropriately (no bare feet, bare chests, no bikini tops)
- While on a game drive, please be very silent as noises can disturb/intimidate animals.
- Greetings can be expressed with Jambo (hello) or Habari Gani (How are you)
- Kindly understand or ask all rules & regulations while on safari from your tour guide
- Tips can be offered and considered generous but please do not attempt to bribe as it is considered a crime
