Planning a safari to Kenya’s Masai Mara is exciting—but knowing exactly what to pack can be overwhelming. From unpredictable weather to varying safari styles, a well-prepared packing list makes all the difference.
At Woodsly Adventures, we’ve guided thousands of travelers across the African bush. Here’s your complete guide to what to pack for a Masai Mara safari, tailored for both the dry and rainy seasons.
1. Essentials for Every Safari
Regardless of season, these items are non-negotiables:
Clothing:
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Lightweight, neutral-colored clothes (avoid bright colors or dark blues/black due to tsetse flies)
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Long-sleeved shirts and pants (for sun and insect protection)
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Fleece or warm jacket (morning and evening drives get cold)
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Sunhat with wide brim
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Sunglasses with UV protection
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Comfortable walking shoes or safari boots
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Flip-flops/sandals (for camp use)
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Swimsuit (many camps have pools)
Gear:
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Binoculars (8×42 or 10×42 for best wildlife viewing)
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Camera with zoom lens (see photography guide)
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Power bank or solar charger
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Universal travel adapter (Kenya uses UK-style plug Type G)
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Flashlight or headlamp
Personal Items:
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Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
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Insect repellent with DEET
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Reusable water bottle
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Basic medical kit (painkillers, plasters, antiseptic, anti-diarrhea)
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Prescription meds & malaria prophylaxis
2. Seasonal Packing Tips
A. Dry Season: June – October, January – March
Expect warm days, cold nights, and lots of dust.
Add these to your bag:
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Scarf or Buff – great for dust protection during game drives
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Moisturizer & lip balm – to counter dry air
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Lightweight windbreaker – early mornings can be chilly
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More layers – temperatures can drop below 10°C (50°F)
Safari Note: This is prime time for the Great Migration and photography safaris.
B. Green (Rainy) Season: November–December & April–May
Expect lush landscapes, short bursts of rain, and vibrant birdlife.
Add these to your bag:
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Waterproof jacket or poncho
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Quick-dry clothing
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Waterproof dry bag (for electronics)
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Extra socks
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Rubber sandals or camp shoes
Safari Note: The green season is great for value travelers and bird watchers. It’s also ideal to combine with a Wasini Island Marine Park Excursion for marine life after the bush.
3. Luggage Restrictions
If you’re flying from Nairobi to Masai Mara by bush plane:
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Soft-sided bags only (no hard suitcases)
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Weight limit: Usually 15kg (33 lbs) total including carry-on
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Pro Tip: Pack essentials in your carry-on in case of delays
Woodsly Adventures provides local travel support and helps coordinate baggage requirements if you’re visiting multiple parks (like Amboseli or Wasini Island).
4. Optional (But Helpful) Additions
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Field guidebook to East African wildlife
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Notebook/journal for safari sightings
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Ziplock bags for dust protection
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Safari gloves (useful for photographers during cold drives)
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Small daypack for excursions
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Laundry soap sheets if you plan to hand wash
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Earplugs – some camps can be lively at night (animals & people!)
5. What NOT to Bring
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Drones – banned in most Kenyan national parks
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Bright or fluorescent clothing – can scare wildlife
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Plastic bags – banned in Kenya (use cloth or reusable options)
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Camouflage clothing – associated with military, avoid in urban areas
6. Packing for Kids (Family Safari)
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Lightweight binoculars
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Nature activity books or checklists
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Child-safe insect repellent
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Long-sleeved PJs
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Safari hat with chin strap
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Favorite snacks (some camps have limited kid options)
Woodsly Adventures offers custom family safaris with child-friendly lodges, educational guides, and pacing suited for all ages.
Final Thoughts
Packing for a Masai Mara safari doesn’t have to be complicated. Focus on neutral, breathable layers, pack for sun and chill, and keep your gear simple but effective.
Let Woodsly Adventures help you plan and pack confidently — from recommending what to wear at different camps to helping you shop or rent gear locally if needed.
📦 Ready to travel light but smart? Start here:
🦁 Masai Mara Safari Booking Page
