The First-Timer’s Guide to a Kenyan Safari

You’ve seen the documentaries, scrolled through the stunning photos, and finally taken the plunge – you’ve booked your first safari. Let me be the first to say it: congratulations! You are in for what will likely be one of the most profound and exhilarating adventures of your life.

But between the booking confirmation and actually setting foot on the red-soil plains of the Maasai Mara, there’s often a flutter of nervous questions. I know I had them. What do I really need to pack? What’s a game drive actually like? Is it safe?

First, let’s talk gear. The advice to wear neutral colours isn’t just a fashion suggestion; it’s about blending in. Bright colours can startle animals, and you want to be a quiet observer, not a distracting presence. Think khakis, greens, and beiges. And pack layers! Mornings can be surprisingly crisp, but by midday, you’ll be shedding that fleece. A warm hat for morning drives and a wide-brimmed one for the afternoon sun are game-changers. And binoculars – don’t even think about leaving without them.

Now, the rhythm of a safari day. It’s a blissful, natural rhythm. Your day starts before dawn with a quick coffee and a biscuit, then you’re off in your 4×4 as the sky lightens. This sunrise drive is prime time for predator action. You’ll return to your lodge for a huge brunch, followed by a few hours of downtime to nap, swim, or just watch the wildlife at the waterhole. The afternoon drive kicks off around 4 pm, culminating with a “sundowner”, a drink enjoyed as the sun sets in a fiery spectacle over the savannah. Dinner is often a social, delicious affair under the stars.

The most important thing to pack, however, is patience. A safari isn’t a zoo; the animals are wild and on their own schedule. Sometimes you’ll see nothing for an hour, and then, suddenly, you’ll stumble upon a scene of pure drama—a lioness hunting, a herd of elephants crossing a river, a leopard lounging in a tree. That’s the magic. It’s unpredictable and all the more special for it.

Nothing truly prepares you for that first moment when you lock eyes with a lion in the wild. The sheer power and presence of these animals is humbling. It’s a feeling that stays with you forever.

Ready to start planning your own adventure? Visit Kenya can help translate your dream into a seamless, unforgettable itinerary.