How to prepare for travelling in Kenya?

This fantastic African country is distinguished by its varied terrain and the possibility of combining different landscapes and situations, and consequently different climates, environments, temperature ranges, insects and more. Everything is part of an experience to be lived without excessive anxiety but with due attention and a minimum of preparation, in order to enjoy an unforgettable holiday to the full.
We asked our Italian tour operator of reference, Mondo Overland, for their opinion on how they, as experts, best prepare those who are about to live an experience as a 'traveller' in Kenya, and not as a simple tourist.

"Preparation is a crucial phase that can significantly influence the travel experience, from practical information on what to pack, to health precautions, to advice on responsible tourism. We are committed to providing continuous assistance to our customers throughout their stay. However, it is essential to reassure travellers even before departure! The pre-departure interview is essential to clarify any doubts and assist customers at all organisational stages,' clarify Mondo Overland.

Some questions, specifically

What to pack?
The first question we are asked is the most banal but not obvious one! What is essential to take with you on a trip to Kenya, especially if a safari is planned.
It is advisable to opt for light, breathable clothes, preferably cotton. Long-sleeved clothes and long trousers are ideal for the evening to protect yourself from mosquitoes. Avoid dark colours that attract insects, preferring neutral tones such as beige and khaki. Other useful items include a hat, binoculars and a reusable water bottle (included in our welcome kit!).

Adventure or relaxation?
The type of trip influences what you pack. If it's a trip with more safaris and lots of adventure, travelling light is essential. A trekking backpack is more practical than the classic trolley, offering more freedom of movement. If, on the other hand, the trip is oriented towards relaxation with little travel, a classic trolley will do just fine.

What to bring for the sea?
On the Kenyan coast, the weather is always warm, so a swimming costume is an essential all year round.
Apart from relaxing on the beach, there are several activities to do. For diving and snorkelling, it is advisable to bring your own mask, although some excursions provide equipment.
One of the most fascinating experiences is walking to the reef at low tide, wearing reef shoes and carrying a waterproof backpack for personal items. It is crucial to remember the importance of preserving the wonderful ecosystem of the coast of
Kenya. To protect this precious environment, it is essential not to touch starfish, puffer fish and other marine animals, but to admire them from a distance. Also, keeping the beach clean and collecting the plastic washed ashore by the sea is a significant contribution to its
conservation!
When visiting the Kenyan coast, it is also important to respect the local culture. In this area most of the population is Muslim, so it is advisable to avoid too short or low-cut clothing and walking in a swimming costume off the beach is considered
inappropriate. So in addition to beach equipment, it is essential to pack some common sense!

How to prepare for your trip?
Before leaving for Kenya or any other destination in the world, it is essential to take out health insurance. Since healthcare in Kenya is private, having good coverage is essential to handle any emergency. It is advisable to always have
handy with your policy number and emergency contacts.
Vaccinations: ASLs recommend that vaccinations for tetanus, cholera, hepatitis A, salmonella, typhoid, meningitis and yellow fever are up to date. Consult your doctor and ASL in advance to obtain all necessary vaccinations.
Useful medicines Before departure, it is advisable to consult your doctor to determine which medicines to bring. It is useful to have paracetamol, intestinal and broad-spectrum antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and antihistamines with you. Although local pharmacies are well stocked,
during a safari or in remote areas it may be difficult to find essential medicines.

What about food?
Our Italian customers often ask us how to approach local food and what to expect.
The facilities and experiences we offer offer local dishes such as rice, chapati, meat, fish or vegetarian options. The food is generally light and not very spicy, inspired by British rather than Mediterranean cuisine.
Tasting local food is a fascinating part of the adventure, but it is advisable to avoid street food unless it is well cooked! In some situations, the level of hygiene may not be ideal for the unaccustomed. This does not mean giving up on the gastronomic experience, but rather taking a cautious approach to prevent unpleasant mishaps!

Our tips for sustainable and responsible travel!
Travelling responsibly is essential to preserve the environment and respect local communities. Here are some tips we give to our travellers:
Local Gastronomy: Try local dishes but avoid wasting food. Only order what you
you are sure you can consume. Waste Reduction: Use the water bottle from our sustainable kit to reduce the use of
plastic.
Conscious Shopping: Choose authentic local handicrafts and avoid products that contribute to deforestation or trade in endangered species.
Responsible Interactions: Do not participate in animal shows or cultural exploitation. Always ask permission before taking photos, especially of children.
Respect for the Environment: Do not touch marine wildlife, collect plastic from beaches and reduce water and energy use.
Donations: Support locally rooted associations instead of giving money or items directly to children or adults.
By following these tips, you can have an unforgettable and respectful travel experience in Kenya and its communities.
Enjoy your trip!