What colors should I absolutely avoid on safari?

Avoid bright white (shows dirt and stands out), black and dark blue (attract tsetse flies and other insects), and bright colors like red or orange (can disturb wildlife and may not be allowed on game drives).

How much luggage can I bring on domestic flights?

Most domestic flights in East Africa have strict 15kg (33lbs) limits per person in soft-sided bags only. Some charter flights to remote areas limit you to 10kg. Check with your tour operator for specific restrictions.

Do I need special gear for kids on safari?

Yes - bring their own binoculars (adults' are too heavy), clip-on water bottles, entertainment for 3-4 hour drives, and their own daypack. Many camps provide children's safari vests, but sizes vary.

What's the malaria situation for families?

Malaria prevention is essential for all family members including children. Consult a travel clinic for age-appropriate medications. DEET repellent is safe for children over 2 months when used as directed.

Should I pack formal clothes?

Pack one smart-casual outfit per person. Some lodges require long pants and closed shoes for dinner, and you'll want something nicer for arrival/departure days in cities like Nairobi or Arusha.

How to Pack for a Family Trip to East Africa

Pack light, breathable layers for varying climates, sturdy closed-toe shoes for safari drives, and essential health items including malaria prevention. Focus on neutral colors for wildlife viewing and bring entertainment for long travel days with kids.

Choose the right luggage. Pack in soft-sided duffel bags instead of hard cases - they're easier to load in safari vehicles and small aircraft. Bring one large bag per person plus a daypack. Weight limits on domestic flights are often 15kg (33lbs) per person.
Pack neutral-colored clothing. Bring khaki, olive, brown, or beige clothing for safari activities. Avoid bright colors, white (shows dirt), black (attracts tsetse flies), or blue (attracts other insects). Pack 3-4 sets of safari clothes plus 2-3 casual outfits for cities.
Layer for temperature swings. Mornings on safari can be 50°F while afternoons hit 85°F. Pack lightweight long pants, long-sleeve shirts for bug protection, a warm fleece or jacket, and breathable t-shirts. Include one dressy outfit for lodge dinners.
Protect feet and ankles. Bring closed-toe hiking boots or sturdy sneakers for safari walks, sandals with ankle straps for camp, and closed shoes for evening (many lodges require covered feet after dark due to insects and small animals).
Pack health essentials. Include prescription malaria prevention, broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+), DEET-based insect repellent (25% minimum), basic first aid kit with bandages and antiseptic, and any prescription medications plus extras.
Prepare electronics carefully. Bring universal power adapters (Type G for Kenya/Tanzania, Type C/D for Uganda), power banks for long safari days, and dust-proof camera storage. Many camps have limited charging times - typically 6pm-10pm only.
Pack kid-specific items. Include tablets with downloaded content, coloring books, small snacks for long drives, their own water bottles with clips, children's binoculars, and a small backpack they can carry with their treasures.

What colors should I absolutely avoid on safari?: Avoid bright white (shows dirt and stands out), black and dark blue (attract tsetse flies and other insects), and bright colors like red or orange (can disturb wildlife and may not be allowed on game drives).
How much luggage can I bring on domestic flights?: Most domestic flights in East Africa have strict 15kg (33lbs) limits per person in soft-sided bags only. Some charter flights to remote areas limit you to 10kg. Check with your tour operator for specific restrictions.
Do I need special gear for kids on safari?: Yes - bring their own binoculars (adults' are too heavy), clip-on water bottles, entertainment for 3-4 hour drives, and their own daypack. Many camps provide children's safari vests, but sizes vary.
What's the malaria situation for families?: Malaria prevention is essential for all family members including children. Consult a travel clinic for age-appropriate medications. DEET repellent is safe for children over 2 months when used as directed.
Should I pack formal clothes?: Pack one smart-casual outfit per person. Some lodges require long pants and closed shoes for dinner, and you'll want something nicer for arrival/departure days in cities like Nairobi or Arusha.