For a production on location in Kenya, the base camp is the engine room. Cast and crew sleep, eat, change, rest and plan there. Good film outfitting keeps everyone comfortable and the schedule on track. Here's how to plan it.
Base camp layout
| Zone | What it needs |
|---|---|
| Crew sleeping | 2–4 person tents, cots, mattresses, sleeping bags, lanterns |
| Production office | Gazebo or dining shelter, tables, chairs, power from your generator |
| Make-up and wardrobe | Shaded gazebos with tables, chairs and mirrors (bring your own) |
| Catering | Portable camping kitchen, dining shelter, coolers, tables and chairs |
| Welfare | Shower and toilet tents, sized to the crew |
| Equipment holding | Gazebos for shade and rain cover for camera and lighting kits |
Sizing your camp
- Plan one sleeping tent for every one or two crew members.
- Seat the whole crew at meals in one or more dining shelters.
- Provide enough shower and toilet tents that queues don't eat into call time.
- Plan shade for every working area, because the Kenyan sun is strong at altitude.
Logistics checklist
- Permits: confirm your filming licence and park, conservancy or landowner permission before booking the camp.
- Access: make sure trucks can reach the site, including after rain.
- Water and fuel: know what's on site and what must be brought in.
- Waste: agree how rubbish and grey water will be removed.
- Weather: avoid the heaviest rains if you can, and plan cover if you can't.
Choosing a film outfitter
Look for an outfitter that supplies sleeping, catering, welfare and shelter from one place, and does its own transport, setup and strike. Kifaru Kampers has outfitted camps from Nairobi since 2014. See our film outfitting service.
Need gear or a full camp setup?
Tell us your dates, location and group size. Kifaru Kampers will recommend the right equipment and send you a quote.
Request a quote Call +254 738 201701 WhatsApp usFrequently asked questions
What does film outfitting include?
Crew sleeping tents and bedding, production and holding shelters, catering setups, chairs and tables, lighting, and shower and toilet tents on location.
Can you supply a base camp in a national park or conservancy?
Yes, provided your production has the required permissions. We transport, set up and strike the camp.
How early should we book film outfitting?
As soon as your dates and location are confirmed, especially for large crews or remote sites.
Do you supply day-shoot gazebos and chairs?
Yes. We supply shade gazebos, holding tents, chairs and tables for day shoots around Nairobi.