Coastal Kenya, Kenya: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Coastal Kenya, Kenya? If you're planning to go to Coastal Kenya, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Coastal Kenya, Kenya

Based on the climate and weather in Coastal Kenya, Kenya, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Coastal Kenya, Kenya

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Coastal Kenya, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Coastal Kenya, Kenya by month

January

January for Coastal Kenya is extremely warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Coastal Kenya may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to pick the correct kind. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to The sacred forests of the Mijikenda, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

If you are traveling to Coastal Kenya in February, you will notice that it is really hot and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Coastal Kenya may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you choose the right type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to The sacred forests of the Mijikenda, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Coastal Kenya is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Coastal Kenya may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to choose the right type. Most adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to The sacred forests of the Mijikenda, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April for Coastal Kenya is consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Coastal Kenya may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you get the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to The sacred forests of the Mijikenda, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

Traveling to Coastal Kenya in May, you will notice that it is hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Coastal Kenya may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to The sacred forests of the Mijikenda, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Coastal Kenya may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you go to The sacred forests of the Mijikenda, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

In July, Coastal Kenya is warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Coastal Kenya, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Coastal Kenya may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to pick the right kind. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you go to The sacred forests of the Mijikenda, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you visit Coastal Kenya during August, you are likely to notice that it is warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally around 70 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Coastal Kenya may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you go to The sacred forests of the Mijikenda, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

In September, Coastal Kenya is hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Coastal Kenya, with several of the days of the month having rain. In September, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Coastal Kenya may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to The sacred forests of the Mijikenda, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Coastal Kenya is pretty consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Coastal Kenya may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to find the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to The sacred forests of the Mijikenda, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

If you visit Coastal Kenya during November, you may notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Coastal Kenya may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to The sacred forests of the Mijikenda, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

Traveling to Coastal Kenya in December, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Coastal Kenya may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to The sacred forests of the Mijikenda, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Coastal Kenya, Kenya

Coastal Kenya is known for its stunning coastline, picturesque beaches, and warm tropical weather. Its rich culture, tradition and exotic wildlife make it a top tourist attraction in Africa. The region has unique attractions that offer diverse experiences to visitors, ranging from historical sites to natural reserves, cultural festivals, and adventurous water sports. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Coastal Kenya that you should visit when you get a chance:

1. Lamu Island

Lamu Island is one of the most unique and culturally rich destinations in Coastal Kenya. The island is known for its rich Swahili culture, historical architecture, and stunning beaches. You can explore the narrow streets of the Old Town, which feature ancient buildings, mosques, and markets. Visitors can also enjoy dhow cruises, water sports and cultural festivals.

2. Mombasa Old Town

Mombasa Old Town offers a glimpse of Kenya's rich history and culture. The town features unique Swahili architecture, narrow streets, and small shops that sell local delicacies and souvenirs. Visitors can explore the Fort Jesus museum, which was built in the 16th century by Portuguese explorers, or visit one of the local seafood restaurants to experience some of the best coastal cuisine.

3. Tsavo National Park

Tsavo National Park is Kenya's largest national park, covering over 22,000 square kilometers. The park is home to some of Africa's most iconic wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, and zebras. Visitors can enjoy game drives, nature walks, and bird watching tours. The park also features unique landmarks, including the Lugard Falls, Mzima Springs, and the Shetani Lava Flow.

4. Diani Beach

Diani Beach is one of the most popular beach destinations in Coastal Kenya. The beach offers pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and a wide range of water sports activities, including surfing, kite-surfing, and scuba diving. Visitors can also explore the nearby coral reefs or take a tour of the nearby Shimba Hills National Reserve.

5. Gede Ruins

The Gede Ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Watamu. The ruins are the remnants of an ancient Swahili city that thrived in the 12th and13th centuries. The ruins feature ancient mosques, houses, and tombs that offer a glimpse of the city's past glory. Visitors can also explore the nearby Arabuko Sokoke Forest, which is home to over 260 bird species and numerous wildlife species.

6. Malindi Marine National Park

Malindi Marine National Park is one of the most biodiverse marine parks in the world, with over 200 species of coral and thousands of marine species. The park offers visitors snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities, which allows them to explore the park's coral reefs and Marine wildlife. Visitors can also take a leisurely boat ride to the nearby Watamu Marine National Park, a breeding site for hawksbill turtles.

In conclusion, Coastal Kenya is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the rich culture, history and natural beauty of Africa. From its pristine beaches to its iconic wildlife parks, there is a lot to explore and experience in this region of Kenya. A visit to Coastal Kenya is sure to provide unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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