Preparing for Your Journey: What to Pack, Expect, and Explore

If you’ve signed up for a study abroad program in Kenya with North South Field Studies Safari (NSFSS) but haven’t started preparing for your trip, don’t wait until the last minute. Instead, start planning everything about your adventure. This way, you can avoid eleventh-hour panic on the D day and the possibility of forgetting vital things.

In this article, we’ve prepared a checklist to guide you on what to pack. We’ll also cover what you should expect when undertaking the NSFSS six-week beach-to-bush study abroad program. Finally, we’ll outline the places and things you can explore during your study period in Kenya. 

Now, pack your bags, buckle your seatbelts, take out your cameras, dust off your binoculars, and get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime! Let the journey begin!

First, Research Your Temporary Home Away From Home 

While it will be much more exciting to experience your new environment in real life, getting an overview in advance can help you plan your excursions and trips to make the most of your time abroad. Google or buy a travel guide to discover what your new home has to offer. Remember to read up on traditions, customs, and habits. This tactic will help you feel at home in no time. You can also pick up on a few words and sentences in Kenya’s local language, Swahili. As a result, you’ll have smooth communication with the locals and heighten your experiences. 

What to Pack When Preparing for Your Trip 

Pack lightly! Remember you may need to carry your luggage at some points along your journey. As such, you should be able to handle the luggage with ease. Also, regarding packing lightly, check your airline’s luggage allowance before flying. Find out the number of bags allowed on air and whether there’s a charge for extra weight or bags.  

That said, here’s a list of the things you should pack: 

1. Copies of Important Documents

You’ll need specific documents to complete your study abroad registration with NSFSS. Additionally, please pack your travel documents and other documentation necessary to stay in Kenya. The essential documents to pack include the following: 

• Passport
• Acceptance letter
• Visa if required
• Plane ticket
• Travel Insurance
• Medical records if under special medication or in need of special care
• Contact details for your bank and credit card company 
• International student ID card
• Prescriptions, if any. 

2. Remember Clothing and Accessories When Preparing for Your Trip

Of course, you need to bring clothes with you. Ensure you pack the right clothes so you are ready for the weather change and any occasion Kenya throws at you. Still, we’ll have informed you about the relevant weather conditions based on the session you’ve enrolled in. Don’t forget to pack accessories. In summary, you’ll need to pack: 

• Cotton clothing, going-out clothes, hiking attire, and nicer clothes for auspicious occasions.
• Close-toed shoes and sandals.
• Your preferred skin care products–you may not find the same brands in Kenya as in your native country.
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Glasses or contact lenses
• A Cell Phone and Laptop
• Adapter and charger
• Camera with a memory card
• Powerbank 
• Headphones or earphones
• Crocs are preferable for walking on a shelly beach.
• Excursion gear. For example, diving attire if you plan to go diving

3. Money is Vital When Preparing for Your Trip

You’ll need money to purchase necessities and souvenirs and settle various expenses. As such, you should have the currency of your destination (in this case, Kenyan shillings). Debit, credit and prepaid cards are also widely accepted in Kenya. Ensure you carry only a little cash.

If your suitcase has space, you can carry nice-to-have items such as a journal, book, country guide, and TSA-approved luggage locks. We suggest that you don’t pack items available in Kenya; instead, plan to buy them upon your arrival. Under no circumstance should you pack illegal substances or anything that can be construed as a weapon. Also, remember to tag your suitcase when you’re done packing. 

4. Paraphernalia for Memories and Instagrammable Pics

Remember to pack up those cameras and binoculars, too. You want to take advantage of every moment! So whether you plan to capture images with your camera or memory, make sure you have the proper apparatus. 

And, of course, please carry with you a fun personality, tag your adventurous self along, add a pinch of an eagerness to learn, and a side of the anticipation of an unforgettable adventure of a lifetime! 

What to Expect and Places to Explore in Kenya

The NSFSS study abroad field study program is intellectually stimulating and culturally eye-opening. During your experiential learning adventure, our highly experienced professors will take you through various modules. They will touch on various topics, including the following:

• Sustainable urbanization,
• Climate change, 
• Environmental sustainability, 
• Marine ecosystem conservation,
• Mega developments
• Human-wildlife-environmental conservation interactions
• Ecosystem and nature-based solutions

Our study abroad adventure is primarily experiential learning, meaning that you’ll visit various destinations and people during your study to gain real-world insights. The best part is that Kenya has a lot to offer when it comes to breathtaking landscapes, fascinating wildlife, diverse cultures, and a burgeoning modern scene. You’ll visit national parks such as Nairobi National Park, which boasts a juxtaposition of urban energy and natural beauty, such as the Big Five. 

Beyond the city limits, Kenya boasts an array of landscapes and natural wonders. The attractions are endless from the pristine beaches of Diani to the stunning vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro. Furthermore, the iconic savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the rich cultural heritage of the Lamu islands await. You can be sure that you’ll have a memorable experience during your stay and field trip in the country. 

We’ve Got Your Back When Preparing for Your Trip

In conclusion, Kenya is one of the best study-abroad destinations, and it’s easy to see why. From the fantastic landscapes to the diverse wildlife, you can be sure that your semester will be highly adventurous. As you embark on your academic safari, let the country’s vibrant cultures, wildlife experiences, and diverse landscapes be your guide, revealing where humanity and nature intertwine. 

So, are you ready to begin your academic safari? Talk to us today for an overview of your unique study abroad safari. Our beach-to-bush program will enable you to explore various breathtaking sites and immerse yourself in the culture of the indigenous people. Ultimately, you’ll gain knowledge on climate change, sustainable development, and environmental sustainability, empowering you to help make a much-needed change.

N/B: This article is written by human writers and not automated AI systems