Kenya, a country in East Africa, is famous for its sweeping savannas, dramatic landscapes, and remarkable wildlife. It is home to iconic animals such as lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and cheetahs, many of which roam freely in world-renowned reserves like the Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Park. Kenya also hosts large herds of wildebeest that take part in the Great Migration, one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth. Its forests, mountains, and coastal regions support diverse species including colobus monkeys, flamingos, rhinos, and an incredible variety of birds. With its rich ecosystems and strong conservation efforts, Kenya remains one of the most celebrated wildlife destinations in the world.
Visa
You must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before you travel.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date, with at least 2 blank pages.
For yellow fever: you may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from a high-risk country
vaccinations and Health Information for Kenya
Routine Vaccines (ensure up to date)
MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Diphtheria, Tetanus & Polio (DTP)
Influenza
Covid-19 vaccination
B. Recommended for Most Travellers
Hepatitis A
Typhoid
Tetanus booster (if over 10 years since last dose)
C. Recommended Depending on Trip
Hepatitis B
Rabies
Meningitis ACWY
Cholera (selected high-risk situations only)
D. Required for Entry (in some cases)
Yellow Fever
NOT required if travelling directly from the UK
REQUIRED if coming from a yellow-fever-risk country OR long transit (>12 hrs) in one
RECOMMENDED for rural/western Kenya
E. Malaria Prevention
(Not a vaccine, but essential)
Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone) OR
Doxycycline OR
Mefloquine
Plus:
DEET insect repellent (30–50%)
Long sleeves/trousers at dusk/dawn
Mosquito nets if needed
UK Government Travel Advice
Kenya Weather
Main Seasons
Dry Season (June – October)
Cooler temperatures
Little to no rain
Best wildlife viewing
Short Rains (November – December)
Quick, scattered showers
Warm and humid
Dry & Hot Season (January – February)
Hot, sunny, mostly dry
Good for safaris
Long Rains (March – May)
Heavy rainfall, especially April
Lush landscapes but muddy roads
Some lodges close for renovation
Kenya Safari Packing List
Clothing (Neutral Colours Recommended)
Lightweight long-sleeve shirts
Lightweight long trousers
T-shirts (neutral colours: khaki, olive, beige)
Warm fleece or jacket (cool mornings/evenings)
Light waterproof jacket
Safari hat with wide brim
Buff or scarf (dust protection)
Shorts (for lodges, not game drives)
Sleepwear
Swimwear (lodges often have pools)
Comfortable walking shoes / trainers
Sandals for camp/lodge
Socks & underwear
B. Health
Personal medications
Antimalarial tablets (as prescribed)
Yellow Fever certificate (if required)
DEET insect repellent (30–50%)
After-bite/sting relief
Sunscreen (SPF 30–50)
Antihistamines
Anti-diarrhoeal tablets
Oral rehydration salts
Hand sanitiser
Basic first aid kit
Lip balm with SPF
Wet wipes & tissues
C. Toiletries
Toothbrush/toothpaste
Deodorant
Soap/shower gel
Shampoo/conditioner
Razor/shaver
Travel towel (optional)
Moisturiser (air can be dry)
D. Documents & Money
Passport (6 months validity)
Travel insurance documents
Vaccination records
Flight tickets
Safari lodge confirmations
Cash in USD (small denominations helpful)
Credit/debit cards
E. Safari Gear
Binoculars (8×32 or 10×42 recommended)
Camera + lenses
Plenty of memory cards
Extra batteries or power bank
Bean bag for photography (optional)
Dry bags for dust protection
Small daypack
Refillable water bottle
F. Electronics
Universal travel adaptor (Kenya uses UK plug, Type G)
Phone & charger
Camera chargers
Power bank
Headlamp or small torch
Portable hard drive (optional)
G. Useful Extras
Guidebook or wildlife ID book
Sunglasses (polarised preferred)
Notebook & pen
Ziplock bags (dust/water protection)
Snacks for long drives
Luggage tags
Reusable shopping bag
Not available