Kenya TravelTips & Guides
Get insider knowledge from local experts who know Kenya best. From safari etiquette to cultural customs, we'll help you make the most of your Kenya adventure.
15+ Years
Local ExperienceBorn and raised in Kenya, we know every corner of this beautiful country
5000+
Happy TravelersGuests who've experienced Kenya with our expert guidance
50+
DestinationsNational parks, reserves, and hidden gems we can guide you to
100%
Safety RecordImpeccable safety standards maintained across all our expeditions
Essential Packing Guide
Pack smart for your Kenya adventure with our comprehensive guide based on 15+ years of safari experience.
Clothing Essentials
Essential items for your Kenya adventure
Lightweight, breathable shirts
EssentialKenya can be hot and humid, especially in coastal areas
Long-sleeved shirts and pants
EssentialProtection from sun, insects, and thorny vegetation
Warm jacket or fleece
EssentialEarly morning game drives and highland areas can be cold
Comfortable walking shoes
EssentialFor nature walks and exploring local communities
Sandals or flip-flops
For relaxing at camp and beach areas
Wide-brimmed hat
EssentialEssential sun protection during game drives
Photography & Electronics
Essential items for your Kenya adventure
Camera with extra batteries
EssentialLimited charging opportunities in remote areas
Binoculars (8x32 or 10x42)
EssentialEssential for wildlife viewing and bird watching
Power bank/portable charger
EssentialKeep devices charged during long safari days
Universal power adapter
EssentialKenya uses Type G plugs (British standard)
Headlamp or flashlight
EssentialFor navigating camps at night and early morning
Extra memory cards
You'll take more photos than you expect!
Health & Safety
Essential items for your Kenya adventure
Insect repellent (DEET-based)
EssentialProtection against mosquitoes and other insects
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
EssentialStrong equatorial sun requires high protection
First aid kit
EssentialBasic medical supplies for minor injuries
Prescription medications
EssentialBring extra supply in original containers
Hand sanitizer
EssentialImportant for hygiene, especially before meals
Water purification tablets
Backup for safe drinking water in remote areas
Safari Accessories
Essential items for your Kenya adventure
Daypack or small backpack
EssentialFor carrying essentials during game drives
Reusable water bottle
EssentialStay hydrated and reduce plastic waste
Dust mask or bandana
Protection from dust on rough roads
Wet wipes
EssentialQuick cleaning when water isn't available
Ziplock bags
EssentialProtect electronics and documents from dust
Duct tape
Universal fix for equipment and gear
Weather-Based Packing Tips
Dry Season (June - October)
Best time for wildlife viewing with clear skies and minimal rain
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing
Bring extra sunscreen and lip balm
Expect dusty conditions on game drives
Perfect for photography with excellent visibility
Wet Season (November - May)
Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and great for bird watching
Pack waterproof jacket and rain gear
Bring quick-dry clothing
Expect muddy roads and possible delays
Great for photography with dramatic skies
Pro Packing Tips
Temperature Variations
Kenya has significant temperature variations. Early morning game drives can be 10-15°C (50-59°F), while midday can reach 30°C (86°F). Layer your clothing!
Power & Charging
Many safari camps have limited electricity hours (usually 6-10 PM). Charge all devices during these times and bring power banks for backup.
Luggage Restrictions
If flying between parks, soft-sided luggage is required with weight limits of 15kg (33lbs). Pack light and leave room for souvenirs!
Best Time to Visit Kenya
Plan your perfect Kenya adventure with our detailed seasonal guide based on weather patterns, wildlife movements, and local insights.
Dry Season
June - October
Peak safari season with excellent wildlife viewing and clear skies
20-28°C (68-82°F)
Minimal (0-50mm)
Advantages
- Best wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources
- Clear skies perfect for photography
- Minimal rainfall means better road conditions
- Great Migration in Maasai Mara (July-October)
- Comfortable temperatures for game drives
Considerations
- Higher prices due to peak season demand
- More crowded parks and accommodations
- Dusty conditions on game drives
- Limited green scenery for photography
Best For:
Packing Essentials:
- Light, breathable clothing for daytime
- Warm layers for early morning drives
- Dust masks or bandanas
- Extra sunscreen and lip balm
Wet Season
November - May
Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and excellent bird watching opportunities
22-30°C (72-86°F)
Moderate to Heavy (100-200mm)
Advantages
- Lower accommodation and tour prices
- Fewer tourists, more intimate wildlife experiences
- Lush, green landscapes perfect for photography
- Excellent bird watching with migratory species
- Baby animals born during this period
Considerations
- Some roads may be impassable due to rain
- Wildlife more dispersed due to abundant water
- Possible flight delays due to weather
- Higher humidity levels
Best For:
Packing Essentials:
- Waterproof jacket and rain gear
- Quick-dry clothing
- Waterproof bags for electronics
- Insect repellent for increased mosquito activity
Month-by-Month Travel Guide
| Month | Season | Highlights | Weather | Wildlife | Crowds | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Short Dry Season | Calving season in southern Serengeti, clear skies | Warm and dry | Excellent | High | Peak |
| February | Short Dry Season | Calving continues, great for predator action | Hot and dry | Excellent | High | Peak |
| March | Long Rains Begin | Green landscapes emerge, fewer tourists | Warm with afternoon showers | Good | Medium | Shoulder |
| April | Long Rains | Lush scenery, bird migration peak | Wet and humid | Fair | Low | Low |
| May | Long Rains End | Beautiful landscapes, good value | Decreasing rainfall | Good | Low | Low |
| June | Dry Season Begins | Great weather returns, migration starts | Cool and dry | Very Good | Medium | Shoulder |
| July | Peak Dry Season | Great Migration in Maasai Mara | Cool and dry | Excellent | Very High | Peak |
| August | Peak Dry Season | River crossings, best wildlife viewing | Cool and dry | Excellent | Very High | Peak |
| September | Peak Dry Season | Continued migration, perfect weather | Warm and dry | Excellent | High | Peak |
| October | Peak Dry Season | Migration returns south, great photography | Warm and dry | Excellent | High | Peak |
| November | Short Rains | Green season begins, lower prices | Warm with short showers | Good | Medium | Shoulder |
| December | Short Rains End | Holiday season, good weather returns | Warm and mostly dry | Very Good | High | Peak |
Expert Travel Tips by Category
Get insider knowledge from our local experts who have been guiding travelers through Kenya for over 15 years.
Photography Tips
Capture stunning wildlife and landscape photos
Best times for wildlife photography are early morning and late afternoon
Bring extra batteries and memory cards - you'll need them!
Use a telephoto lens (200-400mm) for wildlife shots
Respect animals and maintain safe distances
Learn basic camera settings before your trip
Health & Wellness
Stay healthy and comfortable during your safari
Get yellow fever vaccination at least 10 days before travel
Take malaria prophylaxis as recommended by your doctor
Pack a comprehensive first aid kit
Stay hydrated - drink 3-4 liters of water daily
Use high SPF sunscreen and reapply frequently
Safety Guidelines
Essential safety tips for Kenya adventures
Always follow your guide's instructions during game drives
Never leave your vehicle unless specifically told it's safe
Keep valuables in hotel safes, not in your room
Avoid walking alone at night, especially in cities
Register with your embassy upon arrival
Cultural Etiquette
Respect local customs and traditions
Dress modestly when visiting local communities
Ask permission before photographing people
Learn basic Swahili greetings - locals appreciate the effort
Respect wildlife and maintain appropriate distances
Tip guides and staff appropriately (10-15% is standard)
Food & Dining
Enjoy Kenya's cuisine safely and deliciously
Try local dishes like nyama choma and ugali
Drink bottled or properly filtered water
Eat at reputable restaurants and lodges
Be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach
Inform guides of any dietary restrictions or allergies
Travel Logistics
Navigate Kenya like a pro traveler
Arrive in Nairobi at least one day before your safari starts
Keep important documents in multiple locations
Exchange money at banks or authorized dealers only
Download offline maps before traveling to remote areas
Pack light for domestic flights (15kg limit for small aircraft)
Quick Pro Tips
Money
All our prices are in US dollars (USD). Kenyan shillings (KES) are the local currency. US dollars are widely accepted at tourist establishments, but carry KES for small purchases and tips.
Communication
Buy a local SIM card for cheaper calls and data. Safaricom has the best coverage.
Weather
Pack layers! Mornings can be cold (10°C) while afternoons are hot (30°C).
Wildlife
The Big Five are best spotted in Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo National Parks.
Shopping
Bargaining is expected at markets. Start at 30-40% of the asking price.
Transport
Book domestic flights early for better prices and guaranteed seats during peak season.
Need Personalized Travel Advice?
Our local experts are happy to provide personalized recommendations based on your specific interests, travel dates, and preferences.
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