The Coast, Kenya
Malindi's tropical climate means warm to hot weather and high humidity year-round. Pack lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and quick-drying synthetics. These materials allow air circulation and dry quickly. For daytime, shorts, t-shirts, light dresses, and skirts are suitable. For evenings, light Long-sleeved shirts and trousers are useful for mosquito protection and modesty. A Shawl for air-conditioned spaces is handy.
Kenya, especially its coastal regions with a significant Muslim population, observes generally conservative dress. Dressing modestly shows respect for local customs. In general, modesty covers shoulders and knees. Avoid overly revealing clothing in public areas. At religious sites (mosques), women cover heads, shoulders, and knees. Men wear long trousers. Carry a Scarf for mosque visits.
Comfortable sandals or flip-flops are ideal for the beach, resort grounds, and casual strolls in town.
Sturdy, Comfortable walking shoes or Sneakers are for exploring markets, historical sites (like Gedi Ruins), or walking on uneven sidewalks.
Water shoes or sturdy sandals with good grip are useful for rocky beaches, boat excursions, or walking on coral fragments. For safari, closed-toe shoes or Light hiking boots are for dusty conditions.
Keeping your documents organized and secure mitigates unnecessary stress. Have both physical and digital copies.
Kenya uses 240V, 50 Hz, and Type G plugs (three rectangular pins, like the UK). A Travel adapter for Type G outlets is needed. If your devices do not support 240V, a Voltage converter may also be needed. Check device chargers for "100-240V" for universal compatibility. Most modern smartphones are compatible with Kenya's GSM networks. Local SIM cards from Safaricom or Airtel are available; Safaricom offers wide coverage. Purchase at the airport or official stores with your passport for registration. M-Pesa is widely used.
A compact camera or your Smartphone is suitable for general photos. A Waterproof camera (like a GoPro) is for water activities. For safari, a camera with a long-range (zoom) lens is for wildlife. B&H Photo has options. Airalo presents eSIM options.
A Virtual Private Network encrypts your internet connection, especially on public Wi-Fi. This shields your data from potential interception.
Store copies of important documents and photos on services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud. This provides access even if devices are lost or stolen.
Download maps for Malindi and surrounding areas through Google Maps. This allows navigation without an internet connection, saving data and aiding discovery in remote spots.
Pack a practical first-aid kit and personal health items to manage minor ailments or emergencies.
The equatorial sun is strong. Use high-SPF, broad-spectrum Sunscreen (SPF 30+). Wear a Wide-brimmed hat and Sunglasses. A Lip balm with SPF is also beneficial. A high-DEET (30-50%) or Picaridin-based repellent is for effective mosquito protection. LifeStraw products provide water filtration.
While rental gear is available from dive centers, bringing your own Mask and snorkel ensures a good fit and hygiene. Fins can be bulky but can be brought if space allows.
For activities like kitesurfing, surfing, or paddleboarding, rental options are widely available from local operators and resorts. This saves luggage space.
If you plan inland excursions to places like Marafa Depression or explore ruins, appropriate footwear is important for uneven terrain and dusty conditions.
These items contribute to comfort, security, and general convenience during your travels.
These items cater to the local environment and sustainable travel practices.
Reduces plastic waste; refill from hotels or large bottles.
Use for shopping at markets, avoiding single-use plastic bags.
Reusable cutlery minimizes plastic fork/spoon consumption.
An eco-friendly alternative to plastic toothbrushes.
Roll clothes tightly to save space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes to organize items within your luggage.
Consider a capsule wardrobe with versatile pieces that mix and match easily.
