There’s something about the word safari that stirs the soul. It’s a call to the wild, a promise of wide horizons and heart-stopping moments when you lock eyes with a lion or watch elephants amble past your vehicle. If Kenya has been on your travel wish list, it’s time to turn that dream into reality. This is more than a holiday — it’s a front-row seat to nature’s greatest show.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveller, these tips will help you plan smarter, pack better, and truly immerse yourself in the magic of Kenya.

When’s the Best Time to Go?

The truth is, Kenya’s wildlife doesn’t follow a calendar — it’s out there every day, living its wild, unpredictable life. But the experience shifts with the seasons, and your choice of timing can shape your adventure.

July to October – The Drama of the Great Migration

The dry season, spanning from July to October, is widely considered the prime time for a safari in Kenya. During these months, the landscape transforms, with sparse vegetation making it easier to spot wildlife, and animals gathering around the remaining water sources. This period also coincides with the world-famous Great Migration, when over two million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle move from Tanzania’s Serengeti into Kenya’s Masai Mara, braving predator attacks and dramatic river crossings along the way. While sightings of the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino — are never guaranteed, they are significantly more likely during this season thanks to the concentrated wildlife activity. Nature, of course, follows its own unpredictable rhythm, but travelling during the dry months offers the best chance to witness some of Kenya’s most iconic and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

January to March – Sun-Soaked & Crowds Thinned

The grass is shorter, making wildlife easier to spot, and with fewer tourists, you often feel like you’ve got the savannah to yourself. The clear skies make for stunning photography, and you’re more likely to witness newborn animals — a bonus if you love seeing nature’s tender side.

April to June – Green Season Glory

Yes, there’s rain, but with it comes lush, emerald landscapes and spectacular skies. Prices dip, camps feel more intimate, and the birdlife explodes into action. For photographers, this is pure magic — dramatic clouds, rainbows, and animals against a fresh green backdrop.

A Typical Day on Safari – What to Expect

Safari days follow a distinct rhythm, designed to align with animal activity and the cooler temperatures of dawn and dusk:

Early Morning Game Drive

Wildlife is most active during the cooler hours, so mornings typically begin before sunrise with coffee or tea, followed by a 4WD game drive into the reserve. Lions returning from hunts, elephants heading to waterholes, and leopards moving between trees are all common early sightings.

Midday Relaxation

After returning to the lodge for breakfast, there is free time to relax. Many lodges offer pools, spa treatments, and scenic viewpoints. This is also a great time to review photos, enjoy a book, or simply take in the serenity.

Afternoon Game Drive & Sundowners

The second game drive starts in the late afternoon, providing another chance to spot wildlife. As the sun sets, guests often pause for a traditional sundowner — enjoying drinks and snacks while watching the sky transform into stunning shades of orange and pink.

Evenings at the Lodge

Dinner is often served around communal tables, followed by storytelling, cultural performances, or simply enjoying the sounds of the African night.

Packing List – Essentials for Safari Success

Packing smart is key to ensuring a comfortable and stress-free safari experience. For those travelling on light aircraft between parks, luggage is often restricted to 15kg per person in soft-sided bags, so packing light and practical is essential. Safaris also come with varying weather — from cool mornings to hot afternoons — meaning versatility is important. Below is a recommended packing list to help travellers prepare for the adventure ahead:

Clothing – Comfort and Function First

• Neutral-coloured clothes in beige, khaki, olive, or light browns to blend into the natural environment.
• Lightweight long-sleeve shirts and trousers, offering sun protection during the day and defence against insects in the evening.
• A warm jacket or fleece for cool morning game drives and evenings.
• A wide-brimmed hat or cap to protect against the strong African sun.
• Comfortable walking shoes — sneakers or light hiking shoes are ideal for lodge walks and bumpy safari rides.
• Swimwear, as many safari lodges have pools.

Essential Gear – Be Safari Ready

• Binoculars — a game-changer for spotting wildlife at a distance.
• Camera with a good zoom lens, as animals can often be far from the vehicle (smartphones can struggle with this).
• Spare batteries and memory cards, especially if taking lots of photos or videos.
• A lightweight daypack for carrying essentials during game drives.
• Reusable water bottle, as staying hydrated is crucial.
• Travel adapter and charging cables, as plug types may vary.

Toiletries & Health – Stay Protected

• High SPF sunscreen, as the African sun can be intense, even on cloudy days.
• Insect repellent with DEET, essential for keeping mosquitoes and other insects at bay.
• Lip balm with SPF to protect against dry air and sun exposure.
• Personal medications, including any prescription medications, plus essentials like pain relief, anti-diarrhoea tablets, and any recommended anti-malarial medication (consult your travel doctor in advance).

Safari Etiquette: Dos & Don’ts to Know Before You Go

A safari isn’t your typical holiday — you’re a guest in the wild, and following a few key rules will make your experience safer, more enjoyable, and respectful to the environment and wildlife.

✅ DO: Embrace Early Starts

Wildlife is most active early in the morning and at dusk. Set your alarm, grab a coffee, and get out there — the magic happens before the heat of the day kicks in.

✅ DO: Stay Quiet on Game Drives

Whisper if you need to speak, but keep voices low. Loud talking can scare off wildlife or disturb the peaceful setting for others.

✅ DO: Listen to Your Guide

Your guide knows the land, the animals, and how to keep you safe. If they say “Stay in the vehicle,” stay in the vehicle — even if you’re dying to get that perfect photo.

✅ DO: Bring Binoculars & Cameras — But Don’t Forget to Look Up

A great zoom lens and binoculars are essential safari gear, but some of the most magical moments happen when you put the camera down and just soak in the view.

✅ DO: Respect Personal Space — Even for Animals

Wildlife always has the right of way. No sudden movements, no leaning out of vehicles, and absolutely no feeding animals. This is their home — you’re the visitor.

❌ DON’T: Expect Constant Action

Safari is a slow burn, not a highlight reel. Some days you’ll see lions hunting, and other days it’s just elephants peacefully grazing. The magic lies in the unpredictability — embrace the quiet moments, too.

❌ DON’T: Pack Bright Colours or Camouflage

• Avoid bright colours like red, white, or neon — they stand out in the bush.
• Skip camouflage clothing too — it’s often reserved for military use in some countries.

❌ DON’T: Wander Off Alone

Even at camp, you’re in wild territory. Ask a staff member to escort you at night and never walk off during game drives — predators don’t see fences.

❌ DON’T: Use Drones

Most reserves and national parks ban drones — they disturb wildlife and other guests. Leave it at home.

❌ DON’T: Forget You’re a Guest in Someone’s Culture, Too

If you visit a local village (like a Masai village), ask before taking photos, dress respectfully, and embrace the chance to learn — not judge. Safaris are about people as much as wildlife.

Embrace the Unexpected

Safaris rarely go exactly to plan — and that’s the beauty of it. Maybe a lion blocks your path for an hour, or a sudden storm rearranges your itinerary. Some of the best safari stories come from the unscripted moments — stay flexible, stay curious, and trust the journey.