- When planning your trip, always take into account any natural phenomena like the Wildebeest Migration, bookings tend to be heavier during this time.
- While planning, take into account seasons (Easter, X-Mas, New Year’s Eve etc.), distances, weather patterns etc.
- Medical insurance is a must – if not covered, ask us for a quote.
- Ensure that the necessary inoculations are done well in advance and anti-Malaria treatment is begun before your arrival into the country.
- Comfortable, informal clothing is required while on safari. Cool, casual cottons during the day will suffice, while the nights generally require something warmer. Remember, pale colors reflect the heat, while darker colors absorb it.
- Carry enough medicines to last your trip, and remember prescription medicines are available only in major cities. You may want to include common medicines such as sleeping tablets, anti-diarrhea, anti-bacterial ointment, anti-inflammatory, mosquito repellant etc.
- Make sure you carry your sun protection gear – sun block, sunglasses, hat etc. as the equatorial sun can be quite harsh.
- It is wise to travel light, especially on flying safaris where there is baggage restriction on small aircraft (10-15kgs maximum).
- Voltage is 220 – 240 AC, so an adapter will be required for appliances that operate on 110 – 120 AC. The wiring system in Kenya uses a three pin square plug, so you will require an adapter for appliances that require a 2-pin plug.
- When traveling on light aircraft, ‘squashy bags’ are preferred.
- Ensure you have a good supply of bottled water.
- Make sure you include a swimsuit, and a pair of good walking shoes.
- Dining out in Nairobi & Mount Kenya Safari Club (if in your itinerary), will require slightly more formal wear than the lodges.
- Always be aware of your surroundings, and keep your valuables with you at all times. On safari, you can lock up your valuables in the Manager’s safe.
- Remember there are no guarantees in game viewing, and the animals you have come to see are wild.
- You can carry old clothes, pencils, pens, candy etc. to give away while on safari, although try & avoid candy as these children or even their parents, cannot afford dental care.
- It is safe to travel alone, as long as your arrangements have been made with a reputable tour operator.
- Cancellations made nearer to the travel dates normally incur 100% cancellation charges. It is therefore recommended to make any cancellations necessary as soon as possible to reduce cancellation charges.
- Avoid drinking water from the taps, eating from the roadside or salads – you never know if the water being used is hygienic or not. Stick to bottled water only, and dine only in reputable local restaurants or your hotel.
- Get a local phone mobile/cell number with local prepaid sim cards, as soon as you arrive into the country. There are 4 major operators, all offering services at competitive rates. Not only will it be easier & cheaper for you to make both local as well as international calls, but it’ll be easier for your family/friends to keep in touch with you via text messaging or voice calls.
- Internet service is available in most major cities & towns in locally owned cyber cafes. Speeds may vary from place to place due to types of connections & infrastructure, but with the upcoming fiber optic technology, faster speeds are expected to take off soon.
- Keep a roll of toilet paper or tissues, useful for when going on long game drives or walks.
- Avoid using perfumes or fragrant creams/lotions or hair products when on safari. You’ll just attract more bugs, especially during the evenings when the sun is setting.
- Scan copies of important travel documents like your passport and e-mail them to yourself. May come in use in case the original is lost or stolen.
- Blend in, especially in conservative areas like Lamu or old town Mombasa. For women; don’t attract unnecessary attention by wearing loud colors, logos or sexy items.
- Use official foreign exchange facilities.