A safari in Samburu National Reserve offers a thrilling experience in the wild, but knowing what to pack and wear is crucial for a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable adventure. The reserve’s semi-arid climate, rugged terrain, and intense wildlife encounters require the right gear and clothing. This guide provides expert tips on what to bring, wear, and prepare for a successful Samburu safari.
1. Clothing – What to Wear on a Samburu Safari
Samburu’s weather varies throughout the day, with hot daytime temperatures (25°C–35°C / 77°F–95°F) and cooler mornings and evenings (10°C–18°C / 50°F–64°F). Your clothing should offer comfort, protection, and practicality for game drives and outdoor excursions.
Essential Safari Clothing:
✔ Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton or moisture-wicking fabric).
✔ Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, beige, olive green) to blend with nature and avoid attracting insects.
✔ Long-sleeved shirts & pants for sun protection and insect bite prevention.
✔ A warm fleece or jacket for early morning and evening game drives.
✔ A wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection.
✔ A lightweight scarf or buff for dust protection on open game drives.
✔ Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes or hiking boots for walking safaris.
✔ Sandals or slip-on shoes for relaxing at the lodge or camp.
✔ Swimsuit if your lodge has a pool.
Clothing to Avoid:
❌ Bright-colored clothing (red, blue, white) – These attract animals and insects.
❌ Dark colors (black & dark blue) – Tsetse flies are attracted to these colors.
❌ Camouflage clothing – Only military personnel are allowed to wear it in Kenya.
2. Safari Packing List – Must-Have Items for Samburu
In addition to clothing, these essential items will enhance your safari experience:
Personal Gear:
✔ Binoculars (for spotting wildlife from a distance).
✔ Camera with zoom lens for stunning wildlife photography.
✔ Power bank & extra batteries (lodges may have limited charging facilities).
✔ Daypack for carrying essentials on game drives.
✔ Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
✔ Headlamp or flashlight for nighttime navigation at campsites.
✔ Sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses & lip balm to protect against harsh sun.
✔ Insect repellent with DEET to prevent mosquito bites.
✔ First aid kit (including pain relievers, antiseptic, band-aids, and motion sickness tablets).
✔ Toiletries & biodegradable soap (lodges may provide basic supplies).
✔ Personal medications & copies of prescriptions.
✔ Travel insurance details & emergency contact numbers.
3. Packing for Game Drives & Activities
Samburu’s game drives typically take place in the early morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM) and late afternoon (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM). Being prepared will enhance your comfort and wildlife viewing experience.
Game Drive Essentials:
✔ Layered clothing – Mornings are cool, but it gets hot quickly.
✔ Sunglasses & hat for sun protection.
✔ Camera & binoculars for wildlife spotting.
✔ Notebook & pen for recording sightings.
✔ Small snacks (energy bars or dried fruit).
✔ Wet wipes or hand sanitizer for freshening up.
✔ A lightweight rain jacket (if traveling during the rainy season).
4. Packing for a Camping Safari in Samburu
For those opting for budget camping, self-catering, or adventure safaris, additional gear is required.
Camping Essentials:
✔ Lightweight tent & sleeping bag (if not provided by your camp).
✔ Camping stove & utensils (if self-catering).
✔ Headlamp or lantern for nighttime use.
✔ Biodegradable soap & toiletries.
✔ Dry bags to keep electronics and clothes dust-free.
✔ Pocket knife or multi-tool.
5. Best Safari Packing Tips for Samburu
✔ Pack Light – Soft duffel bags are preferable over hard suitcases, especially if flying to Samburu in a small aircraft (15kg weight limit).
✔ Use Layering – Morning game drives are cold, midday is hot—wear layers you can remove.
✔ Bring an Extra Memory Card – You’ll take more photos than expected.
✔ Use Ziplock Bags – Store snacks, toiletries, and electronics safely.
✔ Roll Clothes Instead of Folding – Saves space and prevents wrinkles.
✔ Cash in Small Bills – Some lodges and camps only accept cash tips.
6. Final Checklist Before Traveling to Samburu
✔ Passport & Visa (if required).
✔ Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (recommended).
✔ COVID-19 vaccination certificate (if required).
✔ Credit card & some cash (for tipping, souvenirs).
✔ Safari itinerary & lodge contact details.
✔ Local SIM card or roaming plan for connectivity.
Why Proper Packing Matters for a Samburu Safari
A well-packed bag ensures that you stay comfortable, safe, and ready for the exciting wildlife encounters that Samburu National Reserve has to offer. With the right clothing, gear, and essentials, you’ll be fully prepared to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and cultural experiences in one of Kenya’s most extraordinary safari destinations.
Most Common FAQs on What to Pack for a Samburu Safari
1. Do I need to pack malaria tablets for a Samburu safari?
Yes, Samburu is in a malaria-prone region, especially during the wet season. It’s recommended to take malaria prophylaxis as prescribed by your doctor and pack mosquito repellent with DEET, long-sleeved clothing for evenings, and mosquito nets if camping.
2. Can I bring a suitcase, or should I use a duffel bag?
If you’re flying to Samburu on a light aircraft, you must use a soft-sided duffel bag due to weight and space limitations (typically 15kg/33lbs per person including hand luggage). Hard suitcases are not allowed on small planes but are fine if traveling by road.
3. What kind of power outlets do lodges and camps in Samburu use?
Kenya uses Type G (UK-style) plug sockets with 240V power. Many budget camps and eco-lodges only provide charging stations in common areas, so bring a power bank or solar charger for convenience.
4. Do I need to bring my own toiletries, or are they provided at the lodges?
Most luxury lodges provide shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and insect repellent, but budget accommodations may not. For camping or budget safaris, bring biodegradable soap, shampoo, and wet wipes, as some campsites have limited water.
5. What colors should I avoid wearing on safari?
Avoid:
❌ Bright colors (red, blue, white) – Can startle animals and attract insects.
❌ Black & dark blue – Attracts tsetse flies, which have a painful bite.
❌ Camouflage clothing – Illegal for civilians in Kenya and should not be worn.
Stick to neutral tones like khaki, olive, beige, or brown.
6. What is the most important footwear to bring?
✔ Hiking boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes – For walking safaris or bush hikes.
✔ Comfortable sneakers or trainers – For general use.
✔ Sandals or flip-flops – For relaxing at the lodge or poolside.
Avoid high heels or flimsy shoes, as they’re impractical for safari terrain.
7. Will I need warm clothing for Samburu?
Yes! Samburu’s mornings and nights can be chilly (10°C–18°C / 50°F–64°F). Pack:
✔ A warm fleece or light jacket for early game drives.
✔ A beanie or scarf for wind chill.
✔ Thermal layers if traveling in June–August (cooler months).
8. Do I need a rain jacket for a Samburu safari?
If traveling between March–May (long rains) or October–November (short rains), pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket. However, rainfall in Samburu is less frequent than in other safari regions like the Masai Mara.
9. Should I bring a flashlight or headlamp?
Yes! Some budget camps have limited electricity at night. A headlamp or small flashlight is useful for:
✔ Navigating around the camp at night.
✔ Reading or organizing gear after dark.
✔ Spotting wildlife around the lodge (some camps allow this).
10. What kind of bag should I use for game drives?
Carry a small daypack or sling bag for:
✔ Binoculars & camera for wildlife spotting.
✔ Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent.
✔ Notebook or wildlife guidebook for taking notes.
✔ Snacks and a reusable water bottle.
Avoid carrying large backpacks, as space in safari vehicles is limited.
11. What is the best camera gear for a Samburu safari?
✔ DSLR or mirrorless camera with a zoom lens (200-400mm recommended).
✔ Extra memory cards & batteries (charging can be limited).
✔ Binoculars (8×42 or 10×42 magnification is ideal).
✔ Lens cleaning kit (Samburu is dusty).
A smartphone with a good camera works for casual photos, but zoom lenses are essential for close-up wildlife shots.
12. Is there a dress code for lodges and dining areas?
Most lodges have a casual dress code, but for dinner, many guests wear slightly smarter outfits:
✔ Casual safari wear is acceptable at most places.
✔ Lightweight long pants & a collared shirt (men) or a dress/maxi skirt (women) is ideal for upscale lodges.
✔ Sandals or closed shoes instead of hiking boots for dinner.
No formal attire is required.
13. Should I bring cash, and are there ATMs in Samburu?
✔ Bring some cash in small bills (Kenyan Shillings & USD) for tipping and small purchases.
✔ ATMs are available in Isiolo town, but there are none inside Samburu National Reserve.
✔ Most lodges accept credit cards, but some camps only take cash.
14. Do I need a reusable water bottle?
Yes! Lodges provide filtered water for refilling bottles to reduce plastic waste. A durable, insulated bottle is best for keeping water cool during game drives.
15. What items are easy to forget but essential?
✔ Lip balm – Dry air can chap lips quickly.
✔ Ziplock bags – Useful for storing snacks, electronics, and toiletries.
✔ Wet wipes & hand sanitizer – Game drives can get dusty.
✔ Eye drops – Helps with dry eyes from dust.
✔ Notebook & pen – Great for recording wildlife sightings.
Final Safari Packing Tip:
📌 Pack light, layer clothing, and bring practical gear for comfort, safety, and maximum enjoyment on your Samburu safari!
📩 For more safari planning tips, expert packing advice, and customized itineraries, contact us today! 🦓🐘☀️