Should I bring a drone?

Generally, no. Kenya has extremely strict drone laws and many parks require special permits that are difficult and expensive to obtain. You risk having your gear confiscated at customs.

How do I deal with sensor dust?

Do not attempt a sensor cleaning in the field. Leave the lens attached to the body for the duration of the safari. If you must change lenses, do it inside the lodge room with the windows closed.

Will my gear overheat?

Yes. When not in use, keep your cameras covered with a light-colored cloth or inside the camera bag. Never leave gear exposed to direct sunlight on the seat of the safari vehicle.

How to Pack Camera Gear for a Kenya Safari

Prioritize a rugged, dust-proof backpack and a dedicated beanbag rather than a tripod. Bring two camera bodies to avoid changing lenses in the dusty field, which is the fastest way to ruin a sensor.

Choose your primary bag. Use a dedicated camera backpack with a rain cover. It must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you on bush planes (usually a Cessna 208 Caravan), which have strict size limits for carry-on luggage.
Protect against red dust. Kenya’s savanna dust is fine and invasive. Bring a dry bag or thick plastic bags to wrap your gear during transit between game drives. Keep a blower brush and microfiber cloths in a sealed Ziploc bag.
Optimize support gear. Do not bring a tripod. Most safari vehicles have roof hatches or open sides; use a beanbag. Pack an empty heavy-duty fabric beanbag case and fill it with dried beans or rice once you arrive at your lodge.
Plan for power. Bring at least three spare batteries. You will be charging in lodges that may have intermittent power or strictly limited outlet hours. Ensure your chargers accept 220V-240V and bring a Type G (UK-style) plug adapter.

Should I bring a drone?: Generally, no. Kenya has extremely strict drone laws and many parks require special permits that are difficult and expensive to obtain. You risk having your gear confiscated at customs.
How do I deal with sensor dust?: Do not attempt a sensor cleaning in the field. Leave the lens attached to the body for the duration of the safari. If you must change lenses, do it inside the lodge room with the windows closed.
Will my gear overheat?: Yes. When not in use, keep your cameras covered with a light-colored cloth or inside the camera bag. Never leave gear exposed to direct sunlight on the seat of the safari vehicle.