Kenya is a spectacular country wear wild animals like elephants, lions, and giraffes roam free. Whether you are looking to go on a safari, hike Mount Kenya, learn about the culture from local tribes, or relax on a beach, Kenya has a lot to offer.
Keep on reading, to find out what you need to pack for your Kenyan adventure!
We have a section on what to wear in Kenya, what NOT to bring and answer many important FAQs. Have a great trip!
In Kenya, the standard voltage is 240 volts. If you’re coming from North America, you will need to use a reliable universal power adapter. This one is awesome because it works in nearly every country and includes USB ports so you can charge multiple devices at once.
Kenya is full of hiking and adventure activities and you won’t want to visit without a good pair of hiking boots. You’ll definitely want comfortable, closed-toe shoes when you’re hiking or walking through the bush to protect your toes from scorpions, snakes, or anything else you wouldn’t want to expose your feet to!
There are many countries that have restricted access to websites that may be available in your home country. To ensure you can view any site around the world, connect to a reliable VPN like NordVPN. This will also be a lifesaver when connecting to WiFi in public places, as it will protect your personal information from potential hackers.
Pickpocketing and petty theft are pretty common in major cities like Nairobi and Mombasa. Protect your cash, credit cards, passport, and smartphone by securing them in a neck wallet like this one which can be worn underneath your clothes.
Binoculars are an essential item if you plan on going on safari. Many animals like leopards and lions tend to keep their distance which makes them difficult to spot without a good lens. Don’t miss out on the fantastic wildlife that Kenya is known for by forgetting to bring binoculars!
To help yourself stay organized and avoid overpacking be sure to use packing cubes. These can easily fit in your hand luggage and help keep your clothing wrinkle-free and in order. This set comes in a variety of fun colors and includes separate cases for your shoes and dirty
Available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code “HERO”.
Under the hot African sun, you’ll need to stay hydrated by always carrying a water bottle with you. Unfortunately, the tap water in Kenya is not safe to drink, so instead of buying endless plastic water bottles, opt for a handy LifeStraw reusable water bottle that comes with a filter to prevent you from ingesting germs.
Useful in endless scenarios, you won’t want to travel without a microfiber travel towel. This one dries incredibly quickly, which is perfect if you need to toss it back in your daypack after a day at the beach, hiking, or on safari. This is also useful if your accommodation doesn’t provide a towel or provides one that isn’t up to your cleanliness standards.
Perfect for a safari or any outdoor adventure, a cooling towel is easy to bring along and will help keep you cool. They’re almost too good to be true. All you do is wet the towel, wring out any excess water, and it instantly becomes 20-30 degrees cooler than the air temperature. They’re chemical-free and so easy to use.
In Kenya, the power supply is unreliable and often goes out without notice. Unless your accommodation has a generator, it is a good idea to bring a flashlight for unexpected power outages. This will also come in handy when you’re on safari and need a light to guide the way in evenings.
In Kenya, you’re likely to be using your phone and camera throughout the day, whether it be for photos, navigation, music, or anything else. You won’t want to worry about your devices running out of battery at an inconvenient time, so toss this small portable charger in your backpack and use your electronics all day long.
Malaria is prevalent in Kenya so it is very important that you always wear mosquito repellent and take the proper precautions. In addition to wearing bug spray, these insect repellent bracelets offer a great and easy layer of added protection and last up to 300 hours.
You’ll want to pack a travel umbrella especially if you’re visiting Kenya during the wet season. A travel umbrella that’s compact yet durable is essential. This is the best travel umbrella I’ve come across. I love how well-made it feels and the hard, zippable travel case it comes in.
Depending on when you visit, Kenya can get HOT. You’re sure to be spending a lot of time under the sun, whether you’re hiking, exploring the cities, or on safari. Be sure to remain properly hydrated by bringing electrolyte packets to add to your drinking water. These will especially come in handy if you get sick while traveling.
Give yourself peace of mind by getting travel insurance before your trip. TravelInsurance.com is popular amongst travelers because you can compare plans and search for coverage for emergency medical, trip cancellation, and even your tech gear like laptops and cameras from the top companies on just one site.
For all your safaris and excursions, it’s good to have a daypack. This one is very popular among travelers because it’s compact, lightweight, and durable. Perfect for carrying anything you might need throughout the day, you won’t want to visit Kenya without one!
Whether you’re exploring Mombasa or chilling at the beach, you’re likely to live in a sturdy pair of sandals during your time in Kenya. The hot weather means sandals are in order, and a lot of time spent on your feet means you’ll need something durable and sturdy. These are the perfect pair for any trip to Africa.
With plenty of local and regional delicacies to try in Kenya, there’s no doubt you’ll enjoy experiencing a variety of new cuisines. Prevent getting food poisoning or having an upset stomach from eating unfamiliar foods by taking activated charcoal caps, which will quickly absorb and expel the unwelcome toxins in your system.
You can never go wrong tossing a pack of deodorant wipes in your purse or daypack while you explore all that Kenya has to offer. Lots of time spent traveling around under the hot sun can leave you in desperate need of a quick refresh, and these wipes will do the trick.
There is a lot of poverty in Kenya and theft crimes are common. Be smart by keeping your valuables at home.
Cities like Nairobi and Mombasa will have ATMs available and hotels and restaurants will take visa or master card. Remember to protect your cash in a money belt.
Tourists are strongly recommended to bring a simple burner phone.
If you are going on safari. Bright colors will attract insects and wild animals. Stick with neutrals.
It is illegal to wear.
Roads are unpaved and there are few places where you would ever need to wear them while visiting.
These months are much cooler where the temperature is around 73°F. There is very little rain and humidity during these months which makes it a great time to visit the beaches. Things to pack while visiting during the dry season include sandals, shorts, capris, teeshirts, and tanks. Don’t pack too much warm clothing, you will be fine with just 1-2 pairs of pants and long-sleeved shirts or light sweaters. Also, don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Temperatures average between 73°F to 82°F (23°C to 28°C)
During these months the rain will vary. November and December will receive short periods of rainfall and usually occurs in the late afternoon or evening. January and February will actually receive less rain but March-May are the rainiest months and downpours can be expected. During these months the average temperature ranges between 75°F-86°F. Make sure to pack light, breathable clothing. Shorts and dry fit teeshirts work best. Also, bring a travel-sized umbrella and a light rain jacket or a rain poncho. Waterproof shoes or plastic sandals work well for footwear. Temperatures average between 75°F to 81°F (24°C to 27°C)
Compared to other African countries, Kenya is relatively safe. However, you should check with your government’s national travel advisory before planning a trip. Exercise street smarts in the day and avoid going out at night.
While there are some countries whose nationals don’t require a visa to enter Kenya, if you are coming from the US, Canada, Europe, Australia and many non-African countries, you will need a visa. Check with the Kenya High Commission for the complete list of countries that are visa exempt.
Common vaccinations required for a trip to Kenya are hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies and typhoid, diphtheria, polio, measles, and yellow fever. It is best to consult with a doctor for vaccinations that you will need specific to your trip.
No, you can only drink boiled or bottled water.
Yes, Kenya’s two official languages are English and Swahili.
The Kenyan shilling is used as currency although, on safari, many national parks will also take USD.
Kenya is a fairly expensive country. On a low budget, expect to pay around $100/day. For Midrange to high budgets, $100-$250 a day is the norm.
In Kenya, there is an abundance of wildlife. Some of the best places include Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Tsavo west, Maasai Mara, and Nairobi National Park.
The Big Five refers to the most popular as well as some of the most challenging animals to spot on safari. These animals include elephant, lion, buffalo, rhino, and leopard.
Hike Mount Kenya, have breakfast with giraffes at Giraffe Manor, relax on Kenya’s beautiful coastal sandy beaches, scuba dive or snorkel with abundant sea life, visit coffee and tea plantations, and try out the local cuisine!
