An African safari is commonly on people’s bucket lists, but you may not know what to pack if it’s your first safari. If you’re in the beginning stages of planning, my ultimate guide to a successful first African safari might be helpful. In August 2024, we went on our first 10-day Kenyan safari and faced the same question ourselves about what we needed to pack. Now, I’m back to share our comprehensive African safari packing list, which includes everything you’ll need.

Leggings | Shoes

What to expect on an African safari?

Typically, expect a wake-up call at dawn, followed by caffeine (coffee or tea), before heading off on a morning game drive with a knowledgeable guide. It’s usually cold on early morning game drives but warms up as the sun rises, although game drives generally conclude before the heat sets in. Wearing layers is wise, and some safari vehicles even provide blankets to help keep guests warm. Breakfast is served afterward at the lodge or maybe even in the bush.

Days are yours to lounge at the pool, get massages at the spa, and generally relax. There may also be opportunities for cultural immersion, like visiting a traditional Maasai village or walking safari excursions.

There is a second evening game drive in the late afternoon when animals wake up from their afternoon slumber and are ready for action again. While the sun will still be up initially, temperatures can drop quickly once the sun sets, so layers are essential. After that, there’s usually time to freshen up before dinner. On special occasions, lodges may include a celebration or gathering at a boma closure for dinner, which is a fun experience.

What are the luggage restrictions?

If you have a bush flight, there are often strict requirements, including weight limits and maximum dimensions. Even though we didn’t take bush flights, our tour operator recommended we bring soft-sided luggage, so we got these duffels that fit well into the back of our safari vehicle. My only complaint was that they were pretty heavy to lug around since they didn’t have wheels. Given our itinerary, I probably could’ve used my regular carry-on suitcase.

African Safari Packing List

Luggage

Duffel — Bush flights usually include strictly enforced weight restrictions and maximum dimensions. Only soft-sided luggage is generally permitted, making this duffel a safe choice. It contains easy-to-access organization and multiple straps and handles for carry options.

Daypack — I advise against bringing a luxury handbag in the safari vehicle during game drives, as dust will fly around. Instead, bring an ultralight daypack to carry essentials for the day while out exploring. Brett used his daily backpack as his carry-on and daypack, which also worked well.

Travel Essentials

Passport + Visa — As I previously shared, visa requirements depend on where you go. Kenya requires an electronic travel authorization (eTA), which is simple to do online. You can apply up to three months before your trip and should do so at the latest 72 hours beforehand.

Apple AirTag — We placed an AirTag in each checked duffel to track our bags when flying. I read a few reviews of luggage not arriving at the final destination, so we checked during each layover that our bags were still following us. Thankfully, we didn’t have any issues.

Packing Organizers — This lightweight travel set is one of my essentials for every trip. It’s chic and helps keep everything organized. One of my packing strategies is to organize my packing cubes by day/destination, which helps keep things neat when switching hotels every few days.

Plug Adapter — To travel from the United States to Kenya, you’ll need a Type G adapter to charge devices. This adapter allows numerous devices to charge simultaneously, so Brett and I brought and shared just one adapter.

Chargers — Don’t forget chargers for all electronics (phones, tablets, watches, etc.). Also, I never travel without a portable charger anymore. It’s handy on long flights and game drives if you constantly use the camera.

Binoculars — Our tour operator provided binoculars, so I recommend inquiring beforehand about what your tour operator supplies. If they don’t offer binoculars, I highly recommend bringing a pair for each person.

Clothing

Many articles I read in preparation for our trip overwhelmed me as if I needed to buy a new wardrobe for our safari. I’m happy to report that it was unnecessary, and for the most part, I utilized what I already owned.

Footwear

Shoes — Against others’ advice, I didn’t pack hiking boots (no regrets!). We sat in a vehicle most of the time, and even when we had a walking safari, I just wore pants to cover my ankles. I’d check with your tour operator to see what’s required, but I was happy with my sneakers.

Socks — I didn’t feel the need to pack tall socks and just wore no-show socks with my shoes.

Flip Flops — It’s nice to bring sandals for lounging back at the lodge that are easily washable and double as outdoor/shower/bathroom shoes.

Accessories

Blanket Scarf — Another travel essential for cold flights and chilly, dusty morning and evening game drives.

Hat — Make sure the hat you pack fits snugly; otherwise, it’ll likely blow off with the wind—a strap-back hat would be a great option.

Sunglasses

Medications

As I previously mentioned, vaccine requirements depend on where you go. Since malaria is a risk in Kenya, we decided to take Malarone and didn’t experience any side effects. In addition, we brought the following medications as a precaution but never needed them.

Ibuprofen

Anti-Diarrhea

Pepto Bismol

Yellow Fever Card (if required)

Toiletries

Toothbrush + Toothpaste

Shampoo + Conditioner — No matter where we go, I always ask Brett to pack our shampoo and conditioner, even if the accommodation provides basic toiletries. We’ve been using the same products for years, and every guest we’ve hosted has mentioned how much they love them.

Razor + Shaving Cream

Contact Solution — Bringing extra contact lenses (or glasses) is a good idea. Unfortunately, I learned this the hard way one year in Hawaii. Also, it’s wise to pack some eye drops with the dust and wind if you have sensitive eyes.

Sunscreen — It’s essential to use sunscreen on safari as the sun is intense and can easily lead to sunburn. Throw a can into the daypack for convenient reapplication, and don’t forget about lip sunscreen!

Insect Repellent — Besides bug spray, we also used this to treat our clothes before our trip. It’s a clothing insect repellent spray that lasts up to 6 weeks or washings (whichever comes first) and adds an extra layer of protection.

Photography

All the wildlife photos in my safari posts were taken by my husband using the following:

• Camera
• Zoom Lens
• Battery
• Charger
• Memory Card
• Case

An African safari is worth the saving and planning and is truly a bucket list experience! If you’re heading on a safari, I hope you found this packing list helpful. If you’ve been on safari before, what was on your packing list that I didn’t bring? Please share with us in the comments. xo