What To Wear In Kenya
To sum it up - Light comfortable clothes – but leave your whites at home . . .
- Casual, comfortable clothes are the key when travelling in Kenya.
- During the day it is hot so our advice is to pack lightweight layers in natural fabrics such as linen and cotton that will keep you cool and are easier to wash and dry.
- We suggest keeping to light colours, but not white- it will get dirty and dusty very quickly.
- Avoid blue clothing - the tsetse flies are drawn to the colour blue, and their bite can give you African Sleeping Sickness.
- However, it does cool off at night - especially in Nairobi and the Highlands in July and August - so pack a shawl or jumper/pullover.
- The mountains will be cooler because of the altitude so pack warmer layers and a waterproof jacket for this terrain.
- If you are visiting the beaches pack your swimwear but keep it strictly to the beach or pool area, otherwise cover up. You'll cause offense otherwise.
- In Muslim areas including the coast, shorts and T-shirts can be frowned upon. Our advice is to wear trousers, or knee length or longer skirts and tops which cover your shoulders. For men, long trousers are a good idea.
- If you are on safari, the idea is to relax and enjoy your time under the African sky, and listen to the calls of the wild all around you! Dinner dress is therefore casual and comfortable.
- Also it is very important to note that camouflage or military clothing is not permitted.
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are important as the roads are dusty and uneven.
- Leave your valuables and jewellery at home, you really won't need them.
- If you plan to visit between March and May or October and December, prepare for afternoon rainstorms by taking a light raincoat.
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