As you focus on the landscape, you stay as alert as possible, hoping that your eye will catch anything unusual (a movement, a color, the flick of a tail, or the twitch of an ear) that will signal another animal sighting. When you do spot something, it can take a moment to figure out exactly what it is (a lion, an antelope, a lion-shaped rock). And every once in a while, even after you’ve taken in all the characteristics, the creature might still be a mystery to you.

An African safari is memorable from any perspective. Whether you’re driving in a safari vehicle, trekking on foot, flying with the birds in a hot air balloon or helicopter, or sitting with members of the local community, experiencing what Africa has to offer is a special experience.

Curious about what you need to bring on your adventure? Check out the list below for guidance, but you can also reach out if you have any specific questions.

Venturing beyond the familiar is always risky. Staying within your existing world, never wandering too far from what you know, is safe and predictable. But if your curiosity has been piqued, your adventurous instincts starting to tingle with the anticipation of an experience beyond your norm, don’t let fear of the unknown keep you from leaning in!

You’ve booked your safari, the plan is set. Your imagination is running wild picturing all the sights you’ll see and memories you’ll make on your upcoming adventure. But before you actually arrive and experience the joys of your African safari, remember to check a few things off your list so that you can fully enjoy your experience once you arrive.

The bird calls, overtaking the soundscape a few hours before sunrise, are your first alarm clock in the Kenyan wild, a gentle reminder that the night is soon coming to an end. As you drift in and out of a peaceful sleep, you hear a “good morning” from someone outside the tent, announcing the arrival of coffee or tea as your official wake-up call. You’ll be leaving for your early morning game drive in a few minutes and there’s no better way to start the day than with a hot, caffeinated drink. Even as you feel the chill air on your face, sipping quietly on your veranda, you can already tell from the clear skies above that it’s going to be warm by the afternoon. This is how your day will begin on a Kenyan safari.