Africa Kenya Travel Security, Health And Safety Advisories
Interpreting travel advisories
The US Department of State has issued warning to travelers based on danger from tourist-related crime. You may also read sensational news stories of unfortunate crimes against tourists. Bear in mind, however, that thousands of tourists visit Kenya with no such unfortunate incidents. Before canceling or postponing a trip to Kenya, check with your Kenya travel agents, the airlines, or the department of State, to get more information about the basis of the warning. You should not disregard such warnings, but sometimes the actual danger is not as serious as it sounds.
U.S users should check the date of the travel Advisory, and make use of other services available besides Travel Warnings i.e. downloading incident reports, embassy addresses, tourist office addresses, terrorist profiles, and a number of special reports on specific criminal problems.
Africa vacation safari Luggage facts & information
Traveling by air, you are allowed two bags to check and one carry-on bag. Leaving Europe or Kenya, you may be subject to overweight charges if a checked bag weighs more than 20 kilograms or 44 pounds
Try to plan your packing to allow for the possibility of repacking a smaller bag with clothes for a particular safari. Sometimes there isn’t a lot of room for luggage in a small airplane or a safari vehicle.
Clothing on Kenya safari vacation
You will need comfortable clothes that are cool, but that can layer up to keep you warm at night or at higher altitudes. Casual is fine for daywear, but you may want some possibilities for more dressy dinners and evenings. Traditional “camouflage” colors are best when near wildlife. More rugged clothing would be necessary for camping, hiking, or riding.
Bring a sweater or a light jacket for early morning game drives. Light weight, comfortable walking shoes are sufficient for most safaris. Pack bathing suit. Don’t forget a hat or your sunglasses
I advice to pack lightly. It is possible to get clothing washed and ironed.
Optional Africa Kenya safari equipment
o Camera equipment (extra film, video recorders are great for game)
o Field binoculars (light weight)
o Snorkel and mask
o All-purpose knife, with corkscrew
o Flashlight (extra batteries)
o Pocket calculator
o Alarm clock
o Large and small plastic bags (for storage, against dust)
o Notebook and pen for a safari journal
o Reading material
o Guides and maps
o Sugar substitute (if desired)
o Decaf coffee (if desired)
o Humor-you will need it to enjoy your safari
o Patience-and lots of it
Taking care of yourself on safari
First aid Kit
Most drugstore items are available and inexpensive in Kenya. Consider including for your safaris:
o Sun block (bring lots)
o Lip Balm
o Moisturizers/lotions (bring plenty: hot sun, low humidity)
o Insect repellant
o Acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen for pain or fever
o Antimalaria tablets for prophylactic or attack
o Antidiarrheal agents
o Antibiotics (for lower bowel problems and for broad spectrum use against infections)
o Antihistamines for allergic reaction
o Antifungal powder
o Antiseptic ointment
o Alcohol swabs fro cleaning wounds or insect bites
o Adhesive bandages, gauze dressings, tape
o Thermometer
o Lens solution for contact lenses
o Small packs of tissue (for allergy “noses” or “rest stop ” emergencies)
o Disposable towelettes
By: Robert Muhoho
