Need a Packing list for Kenya Safari? Yes, you probably need your bank cards and a clean pair of underwear. But what else do you put on your safari packing list?
You see, most visitors remember to pack the necessities and that’s great. However, in my own experience as an overland tour leader, those little “nice-to-haves” are almost always forgotten. And these are small objects that make a big difference, yet objects we don’t think about packing for a safari in Kenya.
Here are 10 things that you should consider on your Packing list for Kenya Safari:
10 Things You Need on a Packing List for Kenya Safari
1. Hand Sanitizer
Believe it or not, hand sanitizer is not the most common item in Africa. Also, what you often forget on a packing list for Kenya Safari, is that you won’t have time to go shopping when you reach Nairobi. For this reason, take an alcohol based sanitizer (60% alcohol) and use it as much as possible when you get there.
2. Lip Balm
I know that lip balm is a must-have travel accessory for some but on an African safari, they are essential. Aside from the obvious sun in the sky, keep in mind that you spend a lot of time driving on safari and hanging out the top of the vehicle. In other words, your lips can get burnt from the wind just as much as the sun.
3. iPad Mini
Where do you store your videos and photographs? Without doubt, the best storage facility on your Packing list for Kenya Safari is an iPad. After all, you don’t need a laptop to access these videos and the small size of this device makes it priceless. By the way, it’s also handy for watching “the Lion King” or “Out of Africa” in your spare time. I have this one and it’s amazing!
4. Smaller Camera
Carrying a giant SLR camera around Kenya can be pretty frustrating. More importantly, it can feel a little ignorant pointing on of these lenses in the face of a local. Having a small camera will save you this embarrassment and just make this easier in general. I love the Panasonic G7X but really, any small camera should do the trick for your Packing list for Kenya Safari.
5. Reusable Bags
Did you know that Rwanda was the first country in the world to ban plastic bags? Well, if you want to do the right thing, don’t bring any plastic bags on the trip and take a reusable bag instead.
6. Warm Clothing
Many tourists arrive in Africa without putting warm clothing on their packing list for Kenya safari. Yes, it’s often very warm in Kenya but the truth is, it can get pretty cold at night and you will need layers.
7. Wide Brim Hat
Personally, I try to avoid wearing a wide brim hat. However, I always wear one on safari for protection from the sun and the reason should be obvious. Nobody cares what you look like on safari in Africa and the wide brim hat will make you a whole lot more comfortable. I used this one on safari.
8. Decent Headtorch
Having your hands free after dark is essential in the bush. Especially if you have to do something like put up a tent or help with cooking. Either way, pick a good headtorch and know that you will use it more than most items on your packing list for Kenya safari. My pick is the Petzl Actik Core.
9. Books About Africa
I don’t read books all that often but on safari, there is something special about reading. Think about it: sitting around a campfire with a good book – it even sounds relaxing!
10. Patience
Okay, you don’t put this in your packing list for Kenya Safari but trust me, you need it. In fact, the people who have the best time on safari are always the people who can manage their expectations and deploy patience for when things go wrong!
Whats’s on Your Packing List for Kenya Safari?
Anyway, that’s my ten things that you should put on your packing list for Kenya Safari.
Thank you for reading and Safari Njemi!
