The Complete
Safari Guide.
Everything you need to know before stepping into the bush — from when to go and what to pack, to how to photograph a lion at dawn.
🗓️ When to Go
Kenya's Maasai Mara
Peak wildlife viewing from July–October with the Great Migration river crossings. The dry season (January–February) offers excellent predator activity and fewer tourists. Avoid April–May long rains for road access reasons.
Tanzania's Serengeti
The migration moves through different sections year-round. Calving in the southern Serengeti (January–February) is spectacular. Northern Serengeti river crossings peak July–October. Ngorongoro Crater is excellent year-round.
Kenya Coast & Zanzibar
June–October (dry season) and January–February are ideal for beach holidays. Avoid April–May and November during heavy rains, though the island remains beautiful even then.
🎒 What to Pack
Clothing
Neutral-coloured clothing in khaki, olive, and beige. Avoid white (dust) and bright colours. Bring a warm fleece or light down jacket for pre-dawn game drives — temperatures drop significantly. Long sleeves and trousers for evening mosquito protection.
Gear & Equipment
Quality binoculars are essential (8×42 or 10×42 recommended). A camera with a 100–500mm zoom lens for wildlife photography. A headlamp for walking between tents at night. Portable charger for devices.
Health & Safety
Anti-malaria prophylaxis (consult your doctor). Yellow fever certificate if required. High-SPF sunscreen (50+). DEET insect repellent. Any prescription medications with sufficient supply. Oral rehydration salts.
💉 Health Requirements
Vaccinations
Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into Tanzania and recommended for Kenya. Ensure tetanus, typhoid, and hepatitis A are up to date. Consult a travel health clinic 6–8 weeks before departure.
Malaria Prevention
Both Kenya and Tanzania are malaria zones. We recommend taking antimalarial medication as prescribed. Use long-sleeved clothing and DEET repellent at dawn and dusk. All our lodges use mosquito nets.
Altitude & Kilimanjaro
For Kilimanjaro climbers, acclimatisation is critical. Our Lemosho 8-day route is specifically designed to minimise altitude sickness risk. Discuss any cardiac or respiratory conditions with your doctor before booking.
🦁 Safari Etiquette
In the Vehicle
Stay seated when near wildlife — standing or leaning out disrupts animals and can be dangerous. Speak quietly near kills and young animals. No flash photography. Let your guide lead all decisions about vehicle positioning.
At the Lodge
Never walk between tents alone at night — always use the escort service. Noise levels should be low in the evening — you are in a wild environment. Leave nothing edible in your tent.
Cultural Respect
Always ask permission before photographing Maasai or other local people. Remove shoes before entering homes. Dress modestly in Muslim coastal areas and Stone Town. Learn a few words of Swahili — locals deeply appreciate the effort.
📷 Photography Tips
Golden Hour
The hour after sunrise and before sunset offers the best light in the bush — warm, directional, and forgiving. Schedule your most important game drives for these windows and position the vehicle with the light behind you.
Patience Over Pursuit
The greatest wildlife photographs come from waiting at a scene rather than chasing it. A waterhole at dawn, a sleeping pride with good light — park nearby, cut the engine, and simply wait.
Technical Settings
Use burst mode for moving animals. Set minimum shutter speed to 1/1000s to freeze fast action. Use a monopod or bean bag on the vehicle window to stabilise long lenses. ISO 1600–3200 is acceptable in modern cameras for dawn/dusk.
Ready to Plan Your Safari?
Our specialists have answered thousands of safari questions. Talk to us — there are no silly questions when it comes to your dream trip.