Do I really need to wear khaki?

It is not a fashion choice; it is practical. Light colors stay cooler in the sun and dark colors attract biting flies. You don't need expensive technical gear, just natural tones.

Can I bring a drone for photography?

Almost certainly not. Drones are strictly banned in most national parks in East Africa, and attempting to bring one through customs can lead to confiscation or significant fines.

How do I handle laundry on a safari?

Most safari camps offer same-day laundry service for a small fee. Pack for 5 days and wash as you go to keep your luggage weight down.

Packing for a Family Safari in East Africa

Pack lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing in neutral earth tones and prioritize a high-quality pair of binoculars for each family member. Space is limited on small safari planes and land cruisers, so use soft-sided duffel bags instead of rigid suitcases.

Choose the right luggage. Bring soft-sided, non-structured duffel bags. Many bush flights in Kenya and Tanzania have strict weight limits (usually 15kg per person) and rigid suitcases will not fit in the small cargo holds of the planes.
Select your color palette. Stick to khaki, tan, olive, or light brown. Avoid dark blue or black, which attract tsetse flies, and bright colors, which can spook wildlife.
Layer for variable temperatures. Mornings on game drives are freezing; afternoons are hot. Bring a fleece or light down jacket for early starts and a windbreaker for the open-vehicle drives.
Protect your gear from dust. The African bush is incredibly dusty. Bring Ziploc bags or dedicated dry bags to protect your camera lenses, phones, and tablets when you aren't using them.

Do I really need to wear khaki?: It is not a fashion choice; it is practical. Light colors stay cooler in the sun and dark colors attract biting flies. You don't need expensive technical gear, just natural tones.
Can I bring a drone for photography?: Almost certainly not. Drones are strictly banned in most national parks in East Africa, and attempting to bring one through customs can lead to confiscation or significant fines.
How do I handle laundry on a safari?: Most safari camps offer same-day laundry service for a small fee. Pack for 5 days and wash as you go to keep your luggage weight down.