Are you about to embark on a Kenyan safari? Congratulations! You’re in for an incredible journey that you won’t soon forget. If there’s one thing that will make the experience more enjoyable, it has the perfect outfit; what you wear on that safari.
Packing for a Kenyan safari trip can be tricky—there are many decisions to make, and it can be hard to know what to take. This practical guide aims to give you a better idea of what to wear on your upcoming safari to look stylish and feel comfortable throughout your journey.
We’ll cover the basics of what you should pack and some tips on staying stylish and cosy while exploring the stunning Kenyan scenery. Let’s dive in and see what Kenya has in store!
What to Wear on a Kenyan Safari
When packing for a Kenyan safari, it’s important to prioritize comfort and practicality over fashion. Here are some suggestions on what to wear on a Kenyan safari:
- Lightweight clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing from natural fibres such as cotton, linen, or bamboo. Avoid synthetic materials, which can be uncomfortable in hot and humid conditions.
- Neutral colours: Wear neutral colours such as Khaki, beige, and olive green to blend in with the environment and avoid bright colours that may attract unwanted attention.
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants: Long-sleeved shirts and pants can protect your skin from insect bites, sunburn, and scratches from vegetation. Opt for loose-fitting clothes to stay cool and comfortable.
- Comfortable footwear: Choose comfortable closed-toe shoes or boots for walking on uneven terrain. Avoid flip-flops or sandals as they offer little protection from insects and other hazards.
- Sun protection: pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
- Warm layers: While it may be hot during the day, the temperature can drop significantly at night. Bring a warm layer, such as a fleece jacket or sweater, for the cooler evenings.
- Rain gear: Kenya’s rainy season lasts from March to May and October to December. Packing a lightweight rain jacket or poncho is a good idea.
Remember to pack light and practical. You’ll want enough clothes to last for your safari, but you don’t want to be weighed down with too much luggage.
Things to Keep in Mind When Choosing Fabrics for a Kenyan Safari
Choosing practical and comfortable clothing appropriate for the climate and environment is important when going on a Kenyan safari. When selecting fabrics, bear the following in mind:
Lightweight and breathable fabrics; Kenya has a tropical climate, and temperatures can be quite high, especially during the day. Choose lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton and linen or moisture-wicking materials like polyester. Polyester will keep you cool and comfortable while on safari.
Neutral colours: Choosing clothing in neutral colours such as beige, khaki, brown, or olive green is important. Bright colours and patterns can attract unwanted animal attention and make blending into the natural surroundings harder
Loose-fitting clothing is more comfortable in hot weather and allows for greater freedom of movement. Avoid tight-fitting clothes that can chafe and make you uncomfortable.
Quick-drying materials; You may encounter rain or damp conditions during your safari, so choosing clothes made of quick-drying materials like nylon or polyester is a good idea. These fabrics dry quickly and won’t leave you feeling soggy and uncomfortable.
Sun protection is essential in Kenya, where the sun can be intense and harmful. Look for clothing made of UV-protective materials, or wear a hat and sunscreen to protect your skin.
When choosing fabrics for your Kenyan safari, opt for lightweight, breathable, neutral-coloured, loose-fitting, quick-drying, and sun-protective materials to ensure comfort and safety while exploring Kenya’s beautiful landscapes and wildlife.
What Should I Wear for Head Protection? Choosing the Right Kenyan Safari Hat
Choosing the right hat for head protection is important when going on a Kenyan safari. Here are some practical tips on what to consider when selecting a safari hat:
Brim size: Look for a hat with a brim that is wide enough to provide great shape and protection from the sun. A brim at least 2-3 inches wide should be sufficient.
Material: Choose a hat made from breathable materials, such as cotton, straw, or canvas. Avoid synthetic materials that may trap heat and cause discomfort.
Colour: Opt for a hat in a neutral colour, such as beige, khaki, or olive green. These colours will blend in with the natural surroundings and won’t attract unwanted attention from wildlife.
Fit: Make sure the hat fits snugly but not too tight. It should be comfortable enough to wear for long periods and not fly off in the wind.
Style: There are a variety of safari hat styles to choose from, including the classic wide-brimmed fedora, the bucket hat, and the bonnie hat. Choose a design that best suits your taste and shields your head.
Choosing the right safari hat is essential for a comfortable and safe safari experience in Kenya. Remember the above factors to make an informed decision when selecting your hat.
Footwear for an African Kenyan Safari; Protective Footwear
Choosing the right footwear for an African safari is essential to ensure comfort, safety, and protection. Here are some suggestions for choosing the proper footwear:
Closed-toe shoes or boots; Closed-toe shoes or boots are a must-have for any African safari. They protect against rocks, thorns, and other hazards while walking in the bush.
Comfortable and supportive; Choose footwear that is comfortable and supportive. You’ll likely do a lot of walking, so your shoes should provide adequate support and cushioning for your feet.
Waterproof; Waterproof footwear is essential, especially during the rainy season. Wet feet can lead to discomfort, blisters, and even fungal infections.
Breathable; your footwear should also be breathable to keep your feet cool and dry in hot weather conditions. Shoes made from breathable materials such as mesh or Gore-Tex are ideal.
Neutral colours; As with clothing, choosing footwear in neutral colours such as beige or brown is important. Bright colours can attract unwanted animal attention and make blending into the natural surroundings harder.
Test before you go; It’s important to break in your footwear before your safari to ensure they are comfortable and don’t cause blisters or other foot problems. Test your shoes on different terrains, including rocky and uneven surfaces, to ensure they suit your safari.
Choose closed-toe, supportive, waterproof, breathable, and neutral-coloured footwear for your African safari. Consider putting on these gears before you go to ensure they’re comfortable and suitable for the terrain you’ll be walking on.
What About Sun Protection on the Kenyan Safari?
When going on a safari, sun protection is crucial. The African sun can be intense, and prolonged exposure can lead to sunburn, dehydration, and other health issues. Here are some practical tips on what to wear for sun protection on a Kenyan safari;
- Hat: As mentioned before, wear a hat with a wide brim that provides ample shade for your face, neck, and ears. Look for a hat made from lightweight materials like straw or canvas.
- Sunglasses: Invest in high-quality glasses that provide 100% UV protection. Sunglasses will help protect your eyes from harmful rays and reduce glare.
- Sunscreen: Cover any exposed skin with broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Be sure to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
- Umbrella: Consider bringing a small, portable umbrella to provide additional shade during the hottest day.
- Shade: Whenever possible, seek natural shade from trees or other structures to avoid direct sunlight.
Taking sun protection is important when going on a Kenyan safari. You can stay safe and comfortable while enjoying the beautiful African landscape by wearing the right clothing, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Pack Smart Accessories
Pack smart accessories that make your experience more comfortable and enjoyable when packing for a Kenyan safari. A few items to consider packing include:
-A visor or hat to shield your face from the sun
-Sunglasses to shield your eyes from the bright light
-Binoculars to observe wildlife up close
-A camera to record the spectacular sights
-Lightweight, comfortable clothing that can be layered
-Sturdy shoes or boots for walking
-Sunscreen and insect repellent
Packaging these items will prepare you for anything the Kenyan safari offers!
Prepare for the Climate: Layering Is Key
When planning what to wear on a Kenyan safari, it is important to consider the climate. Kenya is a tropical country, so the weather is hot and humid. However, there are also cooler moments, so layering is key.
A safari in Kenya generally involves a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Lightweight, breathable clothing is also essential. Regarding colours, it is best to stick to neutral tones like Khaki, beige, and olive green. These colours will help you blend in with your surroundings.
Don’t forget to pack a hat and sunscreen! The sun can be quite intense in Kenya. And finally, don’t forget your camera!
Dress in Layers and Remember the Basics
When planning what to wear on a Kenyan safari, it is important to dress in layers and remember the basics. The weather can be unpredictable, so preparing for hot and cold temperatures is important. A good general rule is to wear muted hues that won’t stand out much against the surrounding scenery.
Slacks and a t-shirt are fine for a day safari, but you may want to add a sweater or light jacket for the evening. Remember to pack comfortable shoes and socks, and don’t forget your hat and sunscreen!
Other Practical Tips for Your Kenyan Safari Trip
Here are some additional practical tips for your Kenyan safari trip:
- Research: Research the safari company you choose to ensure they have a good reputation and prioritize responsible and sustainable tourism practices.
- Camera equipment: Bring a camera with a zoom lens to capture wildlife from a safe distance. Also, make sure to bring spare batteries and memory cards.
- Binoculars: Binoculars are essential for spotting wildlife from a distance.
- Cash: Bring cash in the local currency, as not all places accept credit cards. Also, bring small denominations for tips.
- Medication: Bring any necessary medication, such as anti-malaria pills, and check with your doctor before travelling.
- Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency evacuation in case of an accident or illness.
- Respect local culture: Learn about local customs and dress when visiting villages and other cultural sites.
- Respect wildlife: Always respect wildlife and follow the rules set by your safari guide. Do not disturb or approach animals and always keep a safe distance.
Following the above practical tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable Kenyan safari experience.