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
