Safari need to know
The safari health code
- Drink plenty of bottled water
- Rest, drink and eat before you need to
- Avoid sunstroke or sunburn; protect yourself with clothing, hats and ultra-violet barriers
- Remember that the sun is more powerful at altitude and is capable of burning through both cloud and haze
- In the case of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, cool yourself with shade and/or cold water, take ample fluids and if necessary take Aspirin to lower your temperature and relieve headaches
- Protect yourself against malaria: which is a serious risk all year round in all areas below 2,600 meters above sea level.
Observe the following precautions:
- Take preventative measures against infection, in the form of prophylactic tablets (consult your doctor for full details).
- Avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, malaria-carrying mosquitoes bite from dusk until dawn, so be especially vigilant between these times.
- Wear light coloured clothing, long trousers and long-sleeved shirts in the evening.
- Use effective mosquito repellents and sleep under a mosquito net.
- Avoid using perfumes or aftershave.
Climate
The average daytime temperature in central Kenya is 21-26 degrees centigrade. July and August mark the Kenyan winter. Typically, January-February is dry, March-May is wet, June-September is dry, October-December is wet.
What to bring
- A zippered rucksack (backpack)
- A warm pullover or lightweight fleece
- A windproof/waterproof jacket
- Walking boots or shoes
- Long-sleeved shirt and long trousers
- Sunglasses and sun hat
- Sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent
- Swiss army knife
- Camera and binoculars
- Guide books and travel literature
- Light reading
- Mobile phone charger
