Big ADVENTURE,
LIMITED SPACE.

Preparing for Kenya is an art form. We are balancing the cosmopolitan elegance of Nairobi’s JW Marriott with the rugged "Wild Chic" of andBeyond Kichwa Tembo. Below is your curated checklist to ensure you arrive in style and stay comfortable from the city to the savannah.

Whatever you're PACKING, we're here to help you take the first step with confidence.

  • For the long journey from Barbados/USA to Nairobi:

    • Noise-Canceling Headphones: A must for the long haul.

    • Compression Socks: To keep circulation flowing on the 8+ hour legs.

    • Face Mist & Heavy Moisturizer: Cabin air is dehydrating.

    • Power Bank: Ensure your phone is charged for that first landing photo at Jomo Kenyatta (NBO).

    • Change of Clothes: Pack one "Nairobi Arrival" outfit in your carry-on just in case of luggage delays.

  • The JW Marriott and andBeyond provide high-end soaps and shampoos, so focus on your specialty items:

    • High-SPF Sunscreen: The sun is much stronger at the equator/high altitude.

    • Insect Repellent: Brands with Picaridin or DEET for evening sundowners.

    • Lip Balm & Eye Drops: The Mara can be very dry and dusty.

    • Personal Meds: Anti-diarrheal (just in case), hydration salts (Liquid IV), and any personal prescriptions.

  • Because we are taking a private bush plane into the Masai Mara, hard-shell suitcases with frames or stiff wheels cannot be accommodated.

    • The Bag: 100% Soft-sided duffel bag.

    • The Weight: 15kg (33 lbs) total (including hand luggage).

    • Tip: Use packing cubes to compress your "In Bloom" evening wear away from your safari khakis.

  • JW Marriott Wellness: Don't forget two swimsuits for the heated pool and sauna in Nairobi!

    The Elephant Orphanage & Giraffe Center: Urban explorer chic. Chinos or dark denim and a quality tee. Baby elephants are playful—wear sneakers you don't mind getting a little dusty!

    The Floral Workshop: Wear sleeves that can be easily rolled up.
    & Dinner (Cultiva): Think creative elegance. Floral dresses, botanical silk prints, or tailored linen suits.

    The Vibe: Creative Elegance meets Farm-to-Table Hip.

    • The Look:"Modern Botanical."

      Pro-Tip: Since you’ll be working with flowers at the cocktail reception, I suggest sleeves that can be easily pushed up or are not overly voluminous to stay out of the water and shears.

    Footwear: Dressy flats or block heels. Cultiva has a rustic, partially outdoor flooring—avoid stilettos.

    Dinner at Carnivore: This is a great night for something daring. It’s a fun, lively atmosphere where the food is the star.

    • Layering: Nairobi temperatures drop as soon as the sun goes down. A layer is essential for the drive back to the JW Marriott.

  • The Mara: "Wild Chic"

    • Daily Game Drives: Neutral tones (khaki, olive, sand, stone). Avoid bright white, dark blue, or black (these attract flies).

    The Farewell Dinner
    The Vibe: Safari Glamour

    • The Look: Earthy tones (khaki, cream, olive, gold) in elevated fabrics.
      Think linens, silks, and gold accents.

    Don't forget your swimsuits for the pool.

    • Passport: Must have 2 blank pages and be valid for 6 months post-June 2026.

    • E-Visa: Printed copy of your approved Kenyan e-visa.

    • Yellow Fever Card: (If required based on your transit route).

    • Polarized Sunglasses.

    • Lightweight Scarf/Pashmina: For dust and cool evenings.

    • Binoculars: (8x42 is the safari standard).