Pack Like a Pro

We ask you to pack light because of aircraft restrictions and the casual nature of the trip. We will be in Nairobi for two days, spending most of our time on the Borana Conservancy, where laundry is available.

Note: Laundry is available on site.

For our visit to Borana (the bush), we recommend that you pack one medium-sized duffle bag and one carry-on. To get to camp, we will be taking a12-18 passenger Cessna or twin-engine propeller plane. Luggage will be weighed and limited to 33 lbs (15 kgs), including carry-on luggage, such as camera equipment. EO will provide an appropriate-sized duffle bag for you to take to Borana. Larger bags will be bell-checked at the hotel in Nairobi. Please pick up your items when you return to the hotel.

Clothing

The weather is usually fabulous in Kenya. The average temperatures range from 70-80°F (20-27°C) during the day and 50-65°F (10-18°C) at night. We recommend wearing layers in the mornings and evenings, but also keep in mind that a warm up occurs in the afternoon. It’s also a good idea to bring a lightweight rain jacket or poncho. Hiking boots are not necessary; however, a good quality pair of closed sneakers/trainers with ample tread is ideal.
Review the clothing packing list and be mindful of the following:

  • One sweatshirt, sweater or fleece
  • One light waterproof jacket for rain, cool nights and mornings
  • Two long-sleeved shirts
  • Three short-sleeved cotton shirts/t-shirts
  • Two pairs of walking shorts
  • Two pairs of long pants/jeans/convertible zip-off pants/shorts
  • Leggings are useful for ladies
  • Pajamas
  • Bathing suit
  • Socks
  • Undergarments
    • Note: due to local customs, undergarments are not laundered, but soap is provided for handwashing
  • Walking shoes
    • Note: thick soled shoes are recommended to avoid large thorns (sneakers/trainers are fine – no need for large hiking boots)
  • Comfortable slip-on shoes for evenings
  • One all black outfit and one all white outfit

Accessories

  • Brimmed hat for sun protection
  • Sunglasses – please bring quality, polarized glasses to protect your eyes

Toiletries

  • Sunscreen
    • Minimum SPF 15 protection
  • Bug spray
  • Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, body lotion and soap will be provided by the hotel and at the campsite in Borana
  • Other personal needs

Camera accessories and electronics

Due to luggage restrictions, camera equipment with multiple lenses is not recommended. Please assess your clothing and camera needs before arriving in Nairobi. Our vendor will have a few cameras on hand and will share photos per request.

Here’s a list of cleared items and recommended devices:

  • Camera or smartphone with a camera
  • Extra memory chips for digital camera
  • Battery chargers for camera batteries
  • Lens cleaner, brush and tissues
  • Flashlight (and book light, if desired)
  • Extra batteries
  • Adaptor to UK three square pin
  • Binoculars
    • Recommend 8×42 specifications
    • Recommended brands are Bushnell or Nikon. Top brands include Zeiss and Leica

What not to bring

  • Fancy, valuable clothing, jewelry and shoes
    • The dress code is casual for the duration of the program
  • Electronics
    • Laptops
      Note: there is no internet or mobile service at the campsite in Borana
  • Plastic bags
    • Kenya has recently introduced strict bans on single-use plastic bags
    • Ziploc bags holding liquids or gels in hand luggage is ok
    • We would encourage you to travel without plastic bags, if possible
    • Immigration will confiscate all duty-free and retail plastic bags
    • A suggestion would be to use a packing system/packing cubes, reusable shopping bags, and silicone multi-use plastic bags
  • Too many things:
    • Reusable water bottles will be provided in Borana.
    • Baggage will be weighed and limited to 33lbs – 15kgs, including carry-on. EO will provide an appropriate sized duffle bag for you to pack for Borana. Your large luggage will be bell-checked at the hotel in Nairobi and can be picked up upon your return.
    • Laundry service is readily available in Borana, except underwear. Please plan to use this service to avoid over packing.
    • Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, body lotion, and soap will be provided for you both at the hotel and at the campsite in Borana.