So, you’ve booked your dream safari with Seven by Far Tours and Travel Kenya—congratulations! Now comes the big question: What should I pack?

Packing for a safari isn’t like packing for your usual vacation. From early morning game drives in the chilly savannah to warm afternoons by the lodge pool, you’ll need to be smart and selective. But don’t worry—we’ve crafted this comprehensive packing guide to help you prepare like a pro.

Why Packing Right Matters on a Kenyan Safari

Packing smart makes your safari smoother and more enjoyable. Safari vehicles and small bush planes often have limited luggage space, and many camps offer laundry services, so less really is more. Plus, the right gear helps you blend into the natural environment—and stay safe and comfortable.

At Seven By Far Tours and Travel, we’ve guided thousands of travellers. Here’s what we know you should (and shouldn’t) bring.

General Safari Packing Tips

Before diving into the list, keep these tips in mind:

• Use soft-sided duffel bags: Easier to load in 4x4s and bush planes.
• Stick to earth tones: Avoid white, black, and bright colours (they attract insects or scare wildlife).
• Keep it light: Weight limits for local flights are usually 15kg (33 lbs), including hand luggage.
• Pack layers: Temperatures can vary widely between morning and afternoon.

Clothing Essentials

Clothing should be comfortable, functional, and suitable for layering. 

Here’s a breakdown:

Daywear

• 2–3 lightweight, breathable T-shirts or tops
• 2 pairs of safari trousers (convertible zip-off pants are great)
• 1–2 long-sleeved shirts (sun + bug protection)

Evening & Early Morning

• 1 warm fleece or jacket (it gets chilly before sunrise)
• 1 pair of long pants for evenings
• 1 scarf or neck buff (dust + warmth)
•  Light gloves (optional but useful in colder areas like the Mara or Laikipia)

Footwear

• 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
• 1 pair of sandals or slip-ons for around the camp

Accessories

• Wide-brimmed hat or cap with neck cover
• UV-protection sunglasses
• 1 swimsuit (many lodges have pools or spas)
• Undergarments and socks (quick-dry fabrics recommended)

Toiletries & Personal Care

Most safari lodges provide basic toiletries, but you’ll still want your own kit:

• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Biodegradable soap/shampoo (especially if camping)
• Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent (with DEET or natural citronella-based)
• Wet wipes & tissues
• Hand sanitizer
• Personal medications (plus anti-malarials if prescribed)
• Sanitary items (female travellers)

Pro tip: Bring a compact toiletry bag with a hang hook for easy access in tents or bush camps.

Safari Gear & Essentials

Safaris are about the experience and the moments—here’s what helps you capture them and stay prepared:

• Binoculars (at least 8×42 for optimal viewing)
• Camera + extra batteries/memory cards
• Portable power bank
• Headlamp or small flashlight
• Travel adapter (Kenya uses Type G plug)
• Reusable water bottle
• Small travel journal and pen
• Lightweight daypack (for game drives and walks)

Travel Documents & Money

Always keep your essentials organised and secure:

• Valid passport (with at least 6 months before expiry)
• eVisa or printed Kenya visa (depending on your country)
• Yellow Fever certificate (required for many travellers)
• Printed travel insurance details
• Emergency contacts and itinerary copies
• USD cash in small denominations (for tips and emergencies)
• Credit/Debit cards (Visa and Mastercard widely accepted)

Pro tip: Carry both digital and printed copies of all documents.

Optional but Useful Items

These aren’t essentials, but they make your safari more enjoyable:

• Wildlife field guides (Kenyan birds or mammals)
• Energy bars or snacks for long drives
• Laundry detergent (for hand washing small items)
• Earplugs and a sleep mask (for light sleepers)
• Travel pillow (great for road trips)
• Small first aid kit (plasters, antiseptic, meds for stomach bugs)

What NOT to Pack

Avoid these common mistakes:

• Camouflage clothing – illegal for civilians in Kenya
• Drones – require special permits and are banned in most parks
• Hard-shell suitcases– not ideal for transport
• Too many clothes – laundry is widely available
• Hair dryers or high-voltage devices – power may be limited at eco-lodges

Safari Packing List Summary Table:

Here’s a simple checklist to help you stay organised:

Item	Quantity	Note
Long-sleeved shirts	2-3	For sun and bug protection
Safari pants	2-3	Quick-dry and breathable
Fleece or Jackets	1	Cold mornings/evenings
Closed shoes	1 pair	For walking and game drives
Insect repellents	1	High DEET content or natural
Camera+accessories	1 set	Don’t forget memory cards
Binoculars	1 pair	Optional, but highly recommended
Travel documents	All	Carry digital+physical copies
Reusable water bottles	1	Many lodges refill for free
First aid kit	Small	Include personal medication

Final Thoughts: Be Safari Ready

With the right packing list, you’ll not only be prepared—you’ll be comfortable, relaxed, and fully immersed in the incredible landscapes and wildlife Kenya has to offer.

At Seven By Far Tours and Travel, we don’t just organise tours—we walk with you every step of the journey, from booking to boarding your safari vehicle. Our local experts and seasoned guides ensure every detail is covered.

Ready for the Safari of a Lifetime?

Let Seven By Far Tours and Travel help you pack the perfect experience.

Contact us today and let’s start planning your adventure in the wild!