in Kenya & Tanzania
A safari is one of the most exciting trips you’ll ever take, but the best experience starts with good preparation. Packing the right items, understanding basic health precautions, and knowing what to expect on arrival will make your safari smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.
This guide covers a practical safari packing checklist, health and malaria advice, visa and airport tips, and simple safety and money guidance for travelling in Kenya and Tanzania.
You don’t need to overpack for safari. The key is to pack smart, stay comfortable, and be ready for changing temperatures.
Safari days often start cool and become warm by midday. Bring light layers that you can easily add or remove.
Recommended clothing:
Lightweight long-sleeve shirts (for sun and insect protection)
T-shirts or breathable tops for daytime
Light jacket or fleece for early mornings
Comfortable trousers or safari pants
Shorts (optional, mainly for lodge time)
A warm layer for cooler months (June–August)
Neutral colors (khaki, beige, olive, brown)
Avoid:
Bright colors (they attract attention and can disturb wildlife)
Military camouflage (not recommended in some countries)
Comfortable closed shoes or light hiking shoes
Sandals or flip-flops for the lodge
These items improve your safari experience a lot:
Binoculars (very helpful for wildlife viewing)
Camera and charger (plus extra memory cards)
Power bank for phone/camera
Sunglasses
Hat or cap for sun protection
Sunscreen and lip balm
Reusable water bottle
Small day bag for game drives
Travel documents (passport, visa confirmation if needed)
Travel insurance documents
Personal medications (bring enough for the full trip)
Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
Insect repellent (preferably with DEET or a strong alternative)
Basic toiletries
Light rain jacket (especially during green season)
Small flashlight or headlamp
Swimsuit (many lodges have pools)
Plug adapter (depending on the country and lodge)
Staying healthy on safari is usually simple, but it’s important to plan ahead. Always speak with a travel clinic or doctor before your trip, especially if you have medical conditions or travel frequently.
Depending on your travel route and your home country requirements, your doctor may recommend:
Routine vaccines (tetanus, hepatitis A, etc.)
Typhoid (common for travellers)
Yellow fever (may be required in certain travel situations)
Some countries may ask for proof of yellow fever vaccination if you are arriving from, or transiting through, certain regions. Always check the latest entry rules before travel.
Malaria can be present in parts of Kenya and Tanzania, especially in lower-altitude areas.
To reduce risk:
Take malaria tablets if recommended by your doctor
Use insect repellent in the evenings and early mornings
Wear long sleeves and long trousers at night
Sleep under a mosquito net (most safari lodges and camps provide this)
Keep doors and tent zippers closed
Many travellers take precautions and complete their safari with no issues. The key is prevention and preparation.
Visa rules depend on your nationality and may change. Some travellers can apply online in advance, while others may obtain a visa on arrival.
To prepare, keep these documents ready:
Passport valid for at least 6 months
At least one blank page for stamps
Printed travel itinerary or booking confirmation
Proof of accommodation (if requested)
Return or onward ticket (sometimes required)
It’s always best to arrange the visa process before travel when possible, especially during busy seasons.
Most safari travellers arrive through:
Nairobi (Kenya)
Kilimanjaro / Arusha area (Tanzania)
Dar es Salaam (Tanzania, for some routes)
On arrival, here are a few helpful tips:
Keep travel documents and booking confirmations easily accessible
Change a small amount of money at the airport if needed, but avoid large exchanges there
Buy a local SIM card only if you need constant data (many lodges have Wi-Fi, but it may be limited)
Confirm your pick-up driver details in advance (name, phone number, meeting point)
If you are travelling with a safari company, most airport transfers are arranged and smooth.
Kenya and Tanzania are popular tourist destinations and safaris are generally safe when booked with professional operators. Most safety issues are easy to avoid with common sense and a few simple habits.
Always follow your guide’s instructions
Do not stand or walk outside the vehicle during game drives (unless at a designated area)
Never feed or approach wildlife
Keep your voice low near animals to avoid disturbing them
At the lodge or camp, do not walk alone at night without staff escort if advised
Wildlife is beautiful, but it is still wild. Staying aware and listening to your guide keeps you safe and helps protect the animals too.
Keep valuables like passports and money secure
Avoid showing expensive items in public areas
Use a money belt or secure day bag
Carry a copy of your passport (paper or digital)
Drink bottled or filtered water unless your lodge confirms safe drinking water
Kenya and Tanzania use different local currencies, but in many safari locations, US dollars are widely accepted for tips and sometimes for payments.
It’s smart to carry:
Some local cash for small purchases
Small USD notes for tipping (clean and newer bills are preferred)
In major cities and many lodges, card payments are possible. However:
Remote areas may not have reliable card machines
Connectivity can be limited in parks and rural regions
Always have some cash as backup.
Tipping is common on safari and is a great way to appreciate good service.
Typical tipping examples (per day):
Safari guide/driver: moderate tip depending on service and group size
Lodge staff: small tips or a shared tip box
If you are unsure, your safari company can advise on tipping amounts based on your itinerary and group size.
Before you travel, make sure you:
Pack light, but include layers and insect protection
Plan health precautions early
Confirm visa requirements before departure
Keep airport pick-up details ready
Carry some cash and tip responsibly
Relax and enjoy the experience
A well-prepared traveller has the best safari experience, and Kenya and Tanzania offer unforgettable wildlife moments in every season.
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