A little preparation makes a safari smoother and more rewarding. These are the questions our travellers ask most, answered in one place.

When to Go

The dry months, June to October and January to February, offer the easiest wildlife viewing, and July to October is Great Migration season in the Masai Mara. The green season, usually March to May and extending to mid-June at some properties, is quieter, greener and often better value. Many camps also offer discounts when you stay at two or more of their properties, so a carefully planned circuit can stretch your budget further. For more detail, see our guide to when to visit Kenya.

Planning a Circuit 

You can travel across Kenya by combining road, rail and light-aircraft flights, making the most of your time. Tell us your dates and interests by WhatsApp or email, and we’ll design a circuit around them.

Entry & Health Requirements 

• Entry requirements: these depend on your nationality and change from time to time. Check the official Kenyan government website, or the equivalent for Tanzania, before you book flights.
• Passport: make sure it has enough validity and blank pages for your destination.
• Vaccinations and malaria: speak to your doctor or a travel clinic well before you travel about recommended vaccinations and malaria prevention.
• Travel insurance: we strongly recommend cover for medical care, evacuation, cancellation and lost baggage.
• Emergency contacts: share your itinerary and our contact details with someone at home, and tell us who we should contact in an emergency.

What to Pack for a Safari 

• Layers: mornings and evenings can be cool, especially in Nanyuki, the Aberdares and Amboseli, and midday can be hot.
• Neutral colours such as khaki, olive and tan. Avoid very bright colours, and in tsetse-fly areas avoid dark blue and black.
• A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, high-factor sunscreen and insect repellent.
• Comfortable closed shoes for walks, and sandals for camp.
• Binoculars and a camera with spare batteries and memory cards.
• A UK-style three-pin plug adapter. Most lodges have charging points, but supply can be limited in remote camps.

Flying Between Camps 

Light aircraft have strict baggage limits and usually require soft-sided bags rather than hard suitcases. Limits vary by airline, so we’ll confirm them for your flights. If you travel with extra luggage, ask us about storing it in Nairobi.

Safari Etiquette 

• Follow your guide’s instructions at all times, and stay inside the vehicle unless told otherwise.
• Keep your voice low and movements calm near wildlife.
• Never feed or approach animals.
• Ask before photographing people, particularly in Maasai and Samburu communities.
• Take your litter with you, and choose camps and conservancies that work with their local communities.

Money, Connectivity & Safety 

• Most lodges accept cards, but carry some cash for tips, markets and small purchases.
• Mobile coverage can be patchy in conservancies and national parks, and many lodges have Wi-Fi in common areas only.
• Drink bottled or filtered water, and keep valuables out of sight in towns.
• Download offline maps and keep copies of your documents.

Bonus Tips 

• Make sure your loved ones know where you are and have the contact details for each property.
• Ask us about excursions that aren’t in your package, such as balloon safaris, cultural visits and guided walks.

Not sure where to start? Tell us your dates and interests, and we’ll plan the details.