I’ve just returned from an incredible safari and beach stay in Kenya. We travelled as a group and had everything planned in advance
After a night in our beach hotel we were collected by our vehicles for our 4 day adventure
We left our large suitcases in storage at the hotel, taking with us soft sided bags with whatever we needed for the next 4 days. Here’s a few of my top tips (and photos)
Health
Plan your inoculations in plenty of time- some have a waiting list of several weeks. Ideally start enquiring around 3 months before travel
Malaria tablets are likely to be needed- speak to your local travel clinic
Drink bottled water
Don’t approach any animals, any bites or scratches could infect you with rabies
Take some tissues and handwipes with you- some toilets are lacking in paper!
Listen to your guide at all times, you are in the environment of wild animals
Clothing
You will get dirty! Natural colours such as khaki, brown and beige work best. Don’t bother taking your fancy clothes with you. Take a jacket for late night or early morning game drives
Long sleeves/trousers protect you from the sun and insects (and dust!)
Take swimwear, most lodges have pools
Take a waterproof- depending on the time of year its worth having a pac a mac
A safari hat is a must- with a strap to keep it on your head. You’ll be stood up in the vehicle and its easy to get blown off
Money matters
Take lots of $1 notes- great for tipping and small purchases, we found them accepted everywhere
You can buy Kenyan Schilling in advance or withdraw from an ATM ( be warned that some ATMS charge, some don’t get stocked very frequently and one ate my card!)
Bartering is expected- enjoy it but remember a few pence to you makes a big difference to them
Other tips
Take Binoculars
Buy a book with the animals and birds you may see- this helps identify them and you can cross them off (available at lots of places including the park gates)
Be prepared for long days- game drives start before breakfast and can go on until the evening
Take a camera with a decent zoom (new iphones worked great!)
Take a powerbank to recharge your phone/camera
Most plugs are 3 pin British but take a worldwide adapter
Take a torch- powercuts are frequent
A visa is required for UK passport holders- see the FCO website for more info
Be patient and keep your eyes peeled- sometimes you sit and wait to see animals, they can be quite hard to spot so you need to concentrate!
Animal sightings vary at different times of year – do your research or ask for advice
Enjoy some time at the beach to relax after your safari- you will have earned it!
I can help you plan your perfect adventure, contact me at wendy@wendyhainestravel.co.uk or call me on 0330 880 7813
Wendy
