Planning a Kenya trip? This Kenya packing list covers everything you need for safari in the Maasai Mara, exploring Nairobi, and relaxing on the Kenyan coast — with specific gear recommendations for each part of your itinerary.
For full outfit details and style advice, see our complete guide: What to Wear in Kenya.
Safari Packing List for Kenya
- 3–4 safari shirts (long-sleeved, moisture-wicking, khaki/olive/tan)
- 2 pairs convertible zip-off trousers (neutral tones)
- 1 pair lightweight shorts (for midday heat)
- 1 fleece jacket or light down jacket (for cold morning game drives)
- 1 lightweight rain jacket
- Wide-brimmed sun hat with chin strap
- Buff/neck gaiter (dust on game drives)
- Comfortable closed walking shoes or lightweight hiking boots
- Flip-flops or sandals (for lodge downtime)
- Polarised sunglasses
- SPF 50+ sunscreen
- DEET insect repellent
- Anti-malarial medication (consult your doctor)
Nairobi & City Packing List
- Smart casual trousers or jeans (Nairobi has cool evenings)
- Light sweater or cardigan (1,700m elevation = cooler than expected)
- Stylish walking shoes or ankle boots
- Day bag or small backpack (secure, with zips)
Kenya Coast Packing List (Diani, Mombasa, Lamu)
- 2–3 swimsuits or swimming trunks
- Sarong or light beach cover-up
- Modest dress or loose trousers for Mombasa Old Town and Lamu (Muslim areas)
- Sandals that can get wet (reef walking)
- Reef-safe sunscreen for snorkelling
Kenya Safari Luggage Tips
Bush aircraft used for inter-camp transfers (e.g., Nairobi to Maasai Mara) typically have a 15kg total weight limit and require soft-sided bags (not hard-shell suitcases). A soft duffel or frameless backpack is the right luggage for a Kenya safari itinerary.
Electronics & Documents
- Camera with long zoom lens (200mm+ for wildlife photography)
- Extra memory cards and batteries
- Power bank (lodges may have limited charging points)
- Universal travel adapter
- Kenya e-visa printout (required — apply at evisa.go.ke before travel)
- Travel insurance documents
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (required if arriving from certain countries)
Health & Safety Essentials
- Anti-malarial tablets (begin course before travel)
- Oral rehydration sachets (heat dehydration prevention)
- Imodium and basic digestive medications
- Basic first aid kit
- Hand sanitiser
💡 Book your Maasai Mara safari, Nairobi day tours, and coastal excursions through Viator Kenya, and find hotels and lodges through Booking.com.
Frequently Asked Questions: Kenya Packing List
What colours should I pack for a Kenya safari?
Khaki, olive, tan, beige, brown, and soft grey. Avoid white (shows dust), black and dark navy (attract tsetse flies), and bright colours that startle wildlife.
What luggage is best for Kenya safari?
A soft-sided duffel or frameless backpack. Bush planes have strict 15kg limits and require soft bags that compress into small cargo holds. Leave your hard-shell suitcase in Nairobi hotel storage.
Do I need a visa for Kenya?
Most nationalities need an e-visa to enter Kenya. Apply in advance at evisa.go.ke. The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is straightforward and relatively fast to process.