You’ve got questions; we’ve got the boots-on-the-ground answers. From 2026 entry fees to health protocols, here is your definitive guide to planning a Trunktrails Safari.

Planning an African adventure is exhilarating, but we know the logistics can feel like a maze. As we move through April 2026, the travel landscape in Kenya has seen some significant updates—from the new eTA system to revised National Park fees. At Trunktrails Safaris, we believe clarity is the first step to a great vacation.

Below, we’ve compiled the most frequent questions our guests ask when booking our tours and safaris. Consider this your “cheat sheet” for a seamless 2026 journey.

1. Do I need a Visa for Kenya in 2026?

Kenya has officially replaced the traditional “Visa” with the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

• Requirement: Every traveler, including infants and children, must have an approved eTA before boarding their flight.
• Cost: The standard processing fee is $32.50 USD.
• Timeline: Apply at least 3 to 7 days before travel via the official etakenya.go.ke portal.
• Pro Tip: Have your flight itinerary and hotel bookings ready, as you’ll need to upload them during the application.

What are the COVID-19 requirements for entering Kenya?

As of 2026, Kenya has streamlined its health entry protocols. If you’re fully vaccinated against COVID-19, there’s no need for a PCR test before travel. However, all travelers—regardless of vaccination status—must upload proof of vaccination (and, if unvaccinated, a negative PCR test result) to the Global Haven platform before departure. Paper documents are no longer checked on arrival, so be sure your digital records are uploaded and easily accessible. This smooths the process at the airport, keeping you focused on adventure rather than paperwork!

2. What are the 2026 National Park Entry Fees?

To support intensified conservation efforts, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) updated its fee structure. For non-residents in 2026, the 24-hour entry fees are:

• Masai Mara: $100 (Jan–June) / $200 (July–Dec) per adult.
• Amboseli & Lake Nakuru: $90 per adult / $45 per child.
• Nairobi National Park: $80 per adult / $40 per child.
• Tsavo East & Tsavo West: $80 per adult / $40 per child.

Note: Most Trunktrails tours and safaris are “all-inclusive,” meaning we handle these payments for you so you don’t have to worry about gate logistics.

3. What vaccinations do I need?

Health is a priority. While we are not medical professionals and you should always consult a travel clinic, the 2026 guidelines are:

• Yellow Fever: Mandatory if you are arriving from (or transiting for >12 hours through) a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
• Malaria: Highly recommended. Most of Kenya’s safari zones are malarial areas. Consult your doctor about prophylaxis like Malarone or Doxycycline.
• Routine: Ensure your Tetanus, Typhoid, and Hepatitis A/B shots are up to date.

4. When should I book my 2026 Safari?

The “booking window” has shifted. Due to high demand for exclusive, low-impact camps:

• Peak Season (July–October): Book 6 to 12 months in advance.
• Green Season (April–June): Book 3 to 5 months in advance.
• Last Minute: While possible, your choice of top-tier lodges will be limited.

5. Is Kenya safe for travelers in 2026?

Yes. Kenya remains one of the most stable and welcoming tourism hubs in Africa. 2026 is a particularly great year to visit as it precedes the 2027 election cycle, meaning the country is focused on peak operational efficiency and visitor safety. Our Trunktrails guides are with you from “Arrival to Arrival,” ensuring you are always in professional hands.

6. What should I pack for an April Safari?

April is the “Green Season,” which means beautiful landscapes and occasional refreshing showers.

• Layers: Cool mornings and warm afternoons require versatile clothing.
• Rain Gear: A lightweight, breathable waterproof jacket is essential.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots for bush walks.
• Tech: A power bank, extra memory cards, and a universal adapter (Type G).

April’s weather can be unpredictable, swinging from sunny spells to sudden downpours—so flexibility is key. Early mornings and late evenings tend to be chilly, while midday temperatures climb quickly. Pack both warm and cool clothes; think neutral colors like khaki, green, beige, or brown to blend in with the landscape (and not spook the wildlife).

Additional Essentials for April:

• Light, long-sleeved shirts (linen or cotton)
• Warm, windproof jacket or sweater for chilly drives
• Jeans or warm pants for evenings
• A beanie or hat for warmth in the mornings
• Broad-rimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection
• Waterproof boots or sturdy closed shoes for muddy trails
• Raincoat or poncho for unexpected showers
• Comfortable sandals for relaxing at camp
• Enough socks and underwear for the duration
• Swimsuit (yes, some camps have pools)
• Warm and cool pajamas (temperature swings are real)
• Small backpack or fanny pack for daily essentials
• A sarong or kikoi for layering or lounging

Above all, don’t overpack! Stick to the basics but be prepared for both rain and shine—you’ll thank yourself when you’re dry, warm, and comfortable, no matter what the African skies have in store.

Why Neutral-Colored Clothing Matters

When it comes to your safari attire, neutral tones—like khaki, olive, beige, and earth brown—are your best friends. These shades help you blend seamlessly into the savannah, making you less noticeable to wildlife (which is a major advantage when you’re hoping for close-up sightings).

Steer clear of bright colors and whites, which can stand out and even attract insects. Camouflage is also best left at home unless you plan on joining the local rangers—military patterns are regulated in Kenya. Stick with those muted hues, and you’ll not only look the part, but maximize your wildlife photography opportunities, too.

Best Clothing Colors for Your Safari

When choosing your safari wardrobe, stick to earthy, muted tones like khaki, olive green, beige, and soft browns. These colors help you blend seamlessly into the natural environment, making it less likely to draw attention from wildlife during game drives and bush walks.

Avoid bright colors or bold patterns—those can stand out in the bush and may even startle animals. Dark colors like black and navy are best left at home, as they tend to attract heat and biting tsetse flies. By dressing in these classic safari shades, you’ll not only look the part but also enhance your chances of memorable—and safe—wildlife encounters.

Why Packing Light Makes All the Difference

If there’s one safari mantra that’ll save both your back and your sense of adventure, it’s this: pack light, savor more. Here’s why:

• Ease and Mobility: Hauling bulky luggage across bush planes, safari vehicles, and tented camps is no one’s idea of a holiday highlight. Airlines serving safari routes often have strict weight limits—think soft-sided duffels, not rolling suitcases. Keeping your gear to a minimum means fewer hassles and more agility whether you’re dashing for sunrise game drives or trekking between lodges.
• Minimal Distractions, Maximum Comfort: Packing only what you truly need leaves you more space for camera gear (and, let’s be honest, the odd souvenir). With fewer outfit changes to worry about, you can focus on capturing that elusive leopard or soaking in the sunset, not sorting through endless piles of clothes.
• In-Camp Laundry Perks: Most safari camps and lodges—especially those renowned for top-tier hospitality—offer efficient, same-day laundry services. That way, you can rewear your favorite safari shirts and blends without packing a week’s worth. It’s practical luxury that lets you travel light and fresh.
• Less Stress, More Joy: A trim luggage load means you’re not bogged down, physically or mentally. After all, the whole point of this trip is to enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences—not to play suitcase Tetris at every stop.

Embrace the freedom of lighter packing, and you’ll find every moment in Kenya just a little more effortless (and a lot more fun).

7. What items are you not allowed to bring to Kenya (especially plastics)?

Kenya leads the charge against plastic pollution with strict single-use plastic bans, especially in national parks and reserves. These rules are rigorously enforced to keep landscapes pristine and protect wildlife from hazardous litter.

Leave these at home:

• Single-use shopping bags (plastic or polythene)
• Zip-top bags (even the ones airport security hands out)
• Plastic garbage or trash bags
• Duty-free store plastic bags and non-biodegradable packaging
• Plastic water bottles (reusable bottles only, please!)
• Polystyrene (Styrofoam) takeaway food containers
• Plastic straws, cutlery, and drink stirrers
• Plastic bread tags or other small plastic packaging

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure whether an item is allowed, choose reusable, eco-friendly alternatives. Stick to canvas or cloth bags, stainless steel or BPA-free water bottles, and biodegradable packaging whenever possible. Kenyan customs officials may confiscate prohibited plastics on arrival, so double-check your luggage before you zip it up.

Are laundry services available at safari lodges and camps?

Absolutely—packing light is even easier than you’d think. Most safari lodges and camps in Kenya offer reliable same-day laundry service. This means you can re-wear your favorite safari shirts and trousers without worry, keeping your luggage minimal and your outfits fresh. Just remember, laundry is typically line-dried, so delicate items might take a bit longer, and some camps may not include undergarments.

Less time fussing over laundry, more time for sundowners by the campfire.

What toiletries are essential to pack for a safari in Kenya?

Let’s face it: no one wants to interrupt their adventure cresting the Mara plains just because they forgot deodorant. While some camps have small shops, items are limited, and bigger towns can be hours away. For a stress-free experience (and to avoid smelling like you spent the night with a pride of lions), make room in your bag for these must-haves:

• Insect repellent: Mosquitoes come free of charge in the bush—remember a strong DEET-based spray or your favorite picaridin lotion.
• After-bite relief: Nature has a way of finding exposed ankles. Carry a soothing cream or gel for bug bites.
• Sunscreen: The equatorial sun is no joke even when the skies are overcast—pack SPF 30+.
• Shampoo and conditioner: Travel-sized bottles will do just fine—most lodges supply basics, but bring your favorites if you’re picky.
• Moisturizer and aftersun: The combination of sun, wind, and dust means your skin will thank you.
• Hand sanitizer: Ideal for moments when sinks are in short supply.
• Deodorant and lip balm: Not glamorous, but essential!
• Personal medications: Bring enough for your whole trip—pharmacies are few and far between outside Nairobi.
• Electrolyte/re-hydration sachets: Great for staying hydrated after long days in the sun (or celebrating a ‘Big Five’ sighting at sundowner hour).

Aim to keep it compact. If it fits in a single toiletry bag, you’re winning the packing game.

Your Adventure Starts with a Single Question

Did we miss something? Whether you’re curious about the specific 2026 Great Migration dates or need help with a custom 10-day itinerary, our team is standing by. At Trunktrails Safaris, we don’t just sell tours and safaris; we build lifelong memories. Ready to stop dreaming and start doing? Contact us today for a personalized 2026 quote. 🦁 🗺️ 🇰🇪 ✨

• Message us on WhatsApp: +254 113 208888 for instant quotes
• Email: info@trunktrailssafaris.com

Visit our website: https://trunktrailssafaris.com