Ultimate Kenya Safari Packing List
Pack lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing that is comfortable and practical for outdoor adventures. We recommend lightweight T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts for sun protection, quick-drying shorts or safari trousers, and comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. Avoid wearing white, black or blue while out on safari, as these colours may attract insects or affect wildlife encounters.
Layering is key! Early mornings and evenings can be chilly, so bring a warm fleece or puffer jacket, along with a waterproof and windproof jacket. A buff is also useful for changing conditions, while a wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap will help protect you from the sun.
Yes! At Ol Malo we have swimming pool, so pack your swimsuit. For children, UV-protective swim shirts are particularly useful for spending time outdoors.
When visiting Samburu and other Maa communities, women are encouraged to wear skirts or loose-fitting trousers that cover the legs as a sign of respect. When visiting predominantly Muslim coastal areas, such as Lamu, covering your shoulders is also respectful. A lightweight shirt or sarong is a versatile option.
Avoid packing camouflage clothing, as it is restricted in Kenya, and plastic bags, which are banned. Drones are prohibited in many national parks, so check the rules for your itinerary before travelling. Loud toys and electronics should also be left behind to avoid disturbing wildlife.
Kenya generally uses Type G, three-pin plugs. Bring a suitable adapter for your devices. Ol Malo also has USB adapters available.
A small backpack or sling bag is useful for game drives and walks. We also recommend binoculars, sunglasses, a sunhat, a power bank, a universal charger and a headlamp or flashlight. If you plan to walk at night, a light with a red-light setting can be useful.
Horseback Riding & Walking Adventures
Comfortable trousers are suitable for riding, and you don’t need specialist gear to give it a try. Ol Malo has lightweight trekking helmets in various sizes available to borrow. If you’re a keen rider, planning a multi-night Ol Malo Nomad expedition or expecting to ride frequently, we recommend bringing your own well-fitting helmet and suitable riding footwear.
For occasional rides, comfortable trousers and suitable shoes may be sufficient. Ol Malo can provide half chaps or polo-style leg protection. More experienced riders may prefer their own riding kit, with Chelsea-style or Ariat Terrain boots offering useful versatility for riding and walking. Although most saddles have safety stirrups, these are not available everywhere in Kenya.
Bring well-broken-in hiking boots or trail shoes to keep your feet comfortable on longer walks. Gaiters are optional but can help protect against dust, grass seeds and ticks. If you plan to run, pack comfortable running shoes and practical clothing suited to the terrain.
Family Safari & Children's Packing
Pack comfortable, easy-to-change clothing that can be layered as temperatures change. Sun hats with chin cords or baseball caps are useful, as are reusable water bottles and a small dry bag for wet clothes.
Bring familiar comfort items such as a favourite blanket, toy or book, labelled with your child’s name. Kid-friendly binoculars, travel journals and simple games or activities are also great for enjoying family downtime between adventures.
Helicopter Adventures
Pack sunscreen, lightweight sun-protective clothing, a baseball cap, swimwear and UV-protective tops. If you have long hair, hair ties and a buff will come in handy. Most importantly, bring a sense of adventure!
A camera with a zoom lens is useful for capturing wildlife from game drives and helicopter adventures. Bring spare batteries and memory cards. For horseback riding and camel experiences, a mobile phone is often the more practical option.
Health, Hygiene & Safety
We recommend packing high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, hand sanitiser, personal medication and a small first-aid kit with essentials such as plasters, tweezers and antiseptic. Consider bringing oral rehydration salts, antihistamines, pain relief and motion sickness medication if appropriate for your needs.
Malaria prevention requirements depend on the areas you plan to visit and your individual circumstances. Speak to your doctor or a travel health professional before travelling to determine whether antimalarial medication is recommended for your itinerary.
Bring a reusable water bottle and make sure you stay hydrated throughout your adventures. Kenya’s equatorial climate, outdoor activities and high-altitude destinations can make hydration particularly important. Oral rehydration salts may also be useful to have on hand.
Travel Documents & Money
Check your requirements with your travel advisor before departure. You may need your passport, printed copies of important documents, a Kenya eVisa where applicable, and a yellow fever certificate if required for your itinerary or point of entry.
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Make sure your policy includes suitable medical and emergency evacuation cover, including Medivac cover in Kenya, and that it covers the activities planned for your trip.
It is useful to carry some US dollars and Kenyan shillings for tips, local markets and incidental expenses. At Ol Malo, payments at the Samburu Trust shop and tips can also be made by card.
Thoughtful Extras
Yes. If you’d like to contribute, consider bringing colouring books or school supplies through a responsible initiative such as Pack for a Purpose. Avoid plastic items and sweets. Donations towards practical school needs, such as desks and other essential supplies, are also welcome.
A travel journal is a lovely way to record wildlife sightings, especially for children. A lightweight kikoi or scarf is another useful addition, offering versatility for different activities and conditions.
Your tailor-made Kenyan experience
Discover the spirit of Ol Malo
Ol Malo invites you to experience Kenya through generations of adventure, a deep connection to the land, and a shared passion for conservation and community.
