Top Tips To Plan A Memorable Safari In Kenya

If it’s your very first time planning a trip to Africa, you are in for the experience of a lifetime. When it comes to planning your trip, there simply are not enough documentaries available that could truly prepare you for all the wonders you will experience. Africa is home to some of the most beautiful wildlife, diverse plant life, and local culture that cannot be found anywhere else. There is no denying that experience in Africa is one that will not be easily forgotten. However, before arrival, there are a few important aspects of your trip that you should plan for. Here are 5 top tips for planning a memorable Kenyan safari.

#1 Booking Accommodation

Before you can plan all the finer details of your trip, you will need to decide on suitable accommodation. There are tons of safari lodges and guest houses located in Kenya that promote an enjoyable stay in Africa. Safari lodges such as Angama Mara offer guests a variety of exciting experiences, such as hot air balloon rides, walking safari’s, and decadent African cuisine.

Even though it may seem like a dismal task, it is essential that you settle on the most suitable accommodation to ensure that you really are able to get the most out of your stay. While some guest houses and safari lodges may only offer the bare minimums during your stays, such as a bed and complimentary breakfast, others seem to go the extra mile in offering guests several activities that expose the true beauty of Africa. When booking the ideal accommodation, it is vital that you have already established your budget for the trip.   

#2 The Best Time To Travel To Kenya

Deciding on the best time to travel to Kenya should be based on your individual requirements. June through to October is known as the dry season and seems to be the most popular time for travelers to visit Africa. The dry season explains winter in Africa, which means that you should pack accordingly and bring along a few warm jackets to ensure that you are able to fully enjoy early morning and late night safari trips. When visiting Africa during the dry season, you will experience animals migrating towards watering holes and fresh graze. Even though most tourists seem to avoid the rainy season in Africa, April and May can still provide an extremely enjoyable African Get-away experience.

#3 Assess And Prepare For Health Risks Abroad

Traveling abroad can raise concerns about potential health risks. Considering Africa is home to diverse wildlife and plant life, it is vital that you are up to date with all your immunizations and that you take necessary precautions during your stay. It is a great idea to pack a standard first aid kit along with extra items such as mosquito repellent and antibiotic ointments. Because Malaria is widespread in Africa, mosquito repellent and antimalaria tablets are vital. Immunizations for yellow fever is also highly recommended and drinking bottled water only is another great way to keep health risks at bay. Before traveling to Africa, you should consult your health practitioner to discover additional important information regarding health risks when traveling abroad.

#4 What To Pack

For a safari experience, it is best to pack according to comfort and practicality rather than style. Another great idea is to avoid packing white clothing and bright colors. Opt for khaki colors and animal-friendly shades of green. Because tsetse flies are attracted to the colors black and blue, you should also avoid dressing in these colors and rather avoid camouflage clothing that is associated with the military. Lightweight cotton, long trousers, and long sleeve shirts are most ideal for safari trips because this will provide your skin with protection from an array of insect bites and thorns.

Be sure to pack in a hat that provides shade for both your face and your neck, rather than a simple baseball cap. When considering what footwear is best to pack, sneakers or strong boots will be best as sandals and open shoes will expose your feet. It is also a great idea to pack swimwear, gloves, and a warm jacket. As with any exciting trip, be sure to pack in your camera, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Another essential item to pack for an African trip is binoculars that will enable you to see animals from a distance.

#5 Creepy Crawly Precautions

Kenya may be home to various snakes and scorpions, although, it is important to remember that these critters are most likely more afraid of you, that what you are of them. However, it is still essential to take certain precautions, such as using a torch when walking at night and using bug repellent sprays.

Safety Tips For A Safari

When traveling to Africa for a safari trip, it is vital that you listen carefully to any and all instructions given by your tour guide. It is also important that you are silent on a game drive when animals approach the vehicle to prevent scaring them and to not attempt interactions with baboons and other animals. Additionally, if you are enjoying a safari walk, do not run as this will startle the animals.