Should I bring a GoPro?

Yes, but use it for wide-angle landscape shots or mounting to the side of the vehicle for movement clips. It will not capture wildlife details.

Is it safe to bring expensive gear?

It is generally safe in the reserves, but keep your gear in your carry-on luggage at all times. Never leave lenses or bodies in a checked bag.

Do I need a polarizing filter?

A circular polarizer is excellent for reducing glare from the midday sun and making sky colors pop, but remember to remove it in the early morning or late evening to save light.

Camera gear for a Kenya safari

You need a camera body with a long lens (at least 300mm-400mm) to reach distant wildlife and a sturdy beanbag to stabilize your shots inside the vehicle. Bring at least three high-capacity memory cards and a portable power bank, as charging opportunities in the bush can be limited.

Select your reach. Wildlife in the Masai Mara or Amboseli is often further away than you think. A lens with at least 400mm reach on a full-frame camera (or 300mm on a crop sensor) is the absolute minimum. If you have a zoom lens like a 100-400mm or 150-600mm, bring it.
Replace tripods with beanbags. Do not bring a heavy tripod; you cannot use it inside a safari vehicle. Buy an empty beanbag case (or use a pillowcase) and fill it with rice or beans once you arrive in Nairobi. This rests perfectly on the edge of the open safari roof or window for rock-solid stability.
Manage your dust protection. The dust in Kenya is incredibly fine and ruins sensors. Bring a dry bag or a dedicated camera bag that seals tightly. Never change lenses while the vehicle is moving or when it is windy; move inside your lodge or under a dust cover if you absolutely must.
Prepare your power and storage. Bring at least three 64GB or 128GB high-speed SD cards; you will be shocked at how fast you fill them up. Bring two spare batteries and ensure your chargers work with 240V plugs (Type G, the British-style three-pin).

Should I bring a GoPro?: Yes, but use it for wide-angle landscape shots or mounting to the side of the vehicle for movement clips. It will not capture wildlife details.
Is it safe to bring expensive gear?: It is generally safe in the reserves, but keep your gear in your carry-on luggage at all times. Never leave lenses or bodies in a checked bag.
Do I need a polarizing filter?: A circular polarizer is excellent for reducing glare from the midday sun and making sky colors pop, but remember to remove it in the early morning or late evening to save light.