Yes, you can absolutely wear shorts in the Masai Mara in 2026, but there are important caveats for both comfort and etiquette. During the heat of the day (11:00 AM to 3:00 PM), shorts are very common and practical for staying cool while inside your safari vehicle. However, most experienced safari-goers prefer long, breathable trousers (like zip-offs) for several reasons. First, the African sun is intense, and long pants protect your skin from severe burns. Second, at dawn and dusk, the temperature in the Mara can drop significantly, making it surprisingly chilly. Third, and most importantly, long pants protect you from tsetse flies and mosquitoes, which can be attracted to bare skin. If you are doing a "Walking Safari," shorts are generally discouraged because of thorny bushes and long grass. Color also matters: avoid bright colors and instead choose "safari neutrals" like khaki, olive, or tan. While there is no "moral" rule against shorts in the bush, wearing them at dinner in high-end luxury camps might feel underdressed, as most guests switch to "smart-casual" trousers in the evenings.