safari afrika kenia

Kenya Safari Tours

• Choose from 800+ Kenya tours
• 1,300+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
• 24/7 customer support

10 best safari tours

Compiled by

Nadine Kenya travel expert at TourRadar

6 Days Kenya Budget Tours (with Free Night at Nairobi Hotel)

Amboseli & masai mara budget safari by 4x4 jeep, 7 days bigfive safari - nairobi, 5 days masai mara and amboseli wildlife safari, 8 days kenya discovery safari - nairobi, 7 days taylor -made kenya luxury safari, journeys: kenya safari experience national geographic journeys, 5 days kenya medium range safari for amboseli and tsavo parks from nairobi to mombasa, 5 day kenya flying safari, kenya camping safari.

“It was an astonishing safari. I highly recommended Bon Voyage Safari kenya.” shecwess, traveled in December 2023

• Christmas & New Year
• Witness the circle of life in action on the African plains.
• Experience the natural thrill of wildlife encounters.
• Experience the thrill of photographing the Big Five.

“We had the best time, everyone on board the 4x4 budget camping safari jeep was friendly. The safari jeep was always clean and tidy and very comfortable.” netssploit, traveled in January 2022

• Explore Mara North and Southern Masai Mara
• Sunset views from Amboseli's Observation Hill
• Depart from Nairobi to Masai Mara

“Absolutely incredible from start to finish! My driver, Dennis, was awesome as well. He made sure I got to see just about every animal in Kenya!” Dawn M McDonald, traveled in February 2023

• Great Migration
• Drive through Aberdare's scenic landscapes
• Tour Hell's Gate and Lake Naivasha
• Witness Amboseli's wildlife with Mt. Kilimanjaro views

“Our 5 day Kenya Masai Mara safari was fantastic. Everything was very good. Good company I can recommend.” RebekahPetinak, traveled in July 2019

• View Mt. Kilimanjaro from Amboseli
• Explore Masai Mara in a 4x4 Jeep
• Witness the Great Migration up close

“We saw the 'ugly five' and the 'big five' though it was 2 cheetahs instead of a leopard.” Brad Adelman, traveled in December 2023

• Explore the Masai Mara's rich wildlife
• Visit Hell's Gate and Lake Naivasha
• Discover Tsavo's diverse animals and landscapes

“This is one of the best tours ever. I just loved the experience.” Stella Marongah ITC, traveled in June 2019

• Spot unique wildlife in Samburu Reserve
• Discover flamingos at Lake Nakuru
• Enjoy game drives in Maasai Mara

“We had a fantastic experience because Lilian and Vincent the driver was knowledgeable in their work.” Iris Jin Jun Seah, traveled in August 2019

• Cruise Lake Naivasha, spot hippos and eagles
• Learn at Café Ubuntu, support local crafts
• Spot rhinos and lions on safari drives

“It was all very easy and well organised. I also found it to be very competitively priced considering the service we received and the standard of accommodation.” EllaCotter, traveled in September 2022

• Stay at comfortable full-board safari lodges
• Drive through Amboseli with morning game views
• End your tour relaxing at a Mombasa beach hotel

“The price was competitive for the level of personal service we received.” S M, traveled in September 2022

• Enjoy breakfast at Masai Mara before departure
• Discover Masai Mara's diverse animal species
• Experience a safari in Masai Mara

“It was my first G-Adventure Tour and I liked it very much!” Fabio Amport, traveled in September 2022

• Search for the big five in Masai Mara
• Discover Lake Nakuru's diverse wildlife
• Explore Samburu with an afternoon safari

Regions in Kenya

Discover TourRadar

TOP DESTINATIONS

• Kruger Park
• Okavango Delta
• Serengeti National Park
• Victoria Falls

TOP COUNTRIES

• South Africa

TRAVEL DEALS

View All Travel Deals

SOUTHERN AFRICA

East africa, indian ocean islands, top experiences.

• Beach Holidays
• Family Safaris
• Honeymoon Safaris
• Desert Safaris
• Luxury Rail Safaris
• Multi-Generational Safaris
• Positive Impact Safaris
• Photographic Safaris
• Walking Safaris

WILDLIFE SAFARI

Big Five Safaris

Birding Safaris

• Gorilla Trekking Safaris
• Migration Safaris
• Mobile Camping Safaris
• Horseback Safaris

FEATURED EXPERIENCES

Comfort levels, property types.

• Tented Camps
• Boutique Hotels

Featured Safari Collections

• Natural Selection
• Newmark Hotels
• Elewana Collection
• The Safari Collection

GET TO KNOW US

• Meet The Team
• Pricing Explained
• Traveller Reviews
• Traveller Stories
• Why Book With Us?
• HerdTracker
• Safari Cost Calculator
• South Africa In 360
• Trusted Safari Partners
• Newsletter Sign Up

What are you looking for?

• Multi-generational Safaris
• Positive Impact
• Meet the team
• Why book with us?
• Herdtracker
• Safari Cost Estimator

Hello traveller!

It's in Cape Town now.

We're sorry. Our safari planners aren't available now. Our office hours are 08:00 - 19:00 (GMT+2).

Call us to speak to an experienced safari planner.

Alternatively, we recommend...

Schedule a phone or Zoom call with one of our safari planners

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

• Kenya Safari

The ultimate guide to your next Kenya Safari

• Kenya Gallery
• Where to go
• Experiences
• Travel Advice

Get to Know Kenya

By Matthys van Aswegen

Safari Travel Planner

Date Published: 2 January 2014

A safari in Kenya offers breathtaking natural beauty in one of the world’s most pristine environments and allows you to get up close and personal with some of Africa’s most sought-after animals.

Combined with the sight of Mount Kilimanjaro , all this makes a Kenya safari experience unique. The annual Great Wildebeest Migration is best viewed from both sides of the Mara River, but you can experience the herds on the Kenyan side between August and October.

The southern parks and reserves like the Masai Mara and Amboseli National Park are well worth seeing. So are the northern parts of Kenya’s private concessions and Samburu reserves, where you can find the Special Five – reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Gerenuk, Somali ostrich, and Beisa oryx.

Kenya Video

How it Works

View our recommended safaris for inspiration and get ready to plan your dream safari

Contact us or fill out an enquiry form and one of our travel experts will help you tailor make your perfect safari

Enjoy an authentic African experience.

Why Visit Kenya?

Wildlife encounters:.

• The Great Migration: Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Great Migration, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the Mara-Serengeti ecosystem, braving the crocodile-infested Mara River in search of greener pastures.
• Big Five: Kenya is home to the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos. National parks like Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo offer some of the best opportunities to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat​.
• Diverse Wildlife: Beyond the Big Five, Kenya boasts an incredible variety of wildlife, including cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and over 1,000 bird species. It is a must for wildlife enthusiasts​.

Scenic Beauty:

• Mount Kilimanjaro Views: Amboseli National Park offers stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, providing a picturesque backdrop for your landscape and wildlife photographic safaris.
• Diverse Landscapes: From the rolling savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the arid landscapes of Samburu and the lush forests of Aberdare, Kenya’s varied ecosystems offer you breathtaking scenery and unique safari experiences.

Cultural Richness:

• Maasai and Samburu Tribes: Engage with the local Maasai and Samburu communities, learning about their traditional way of life, customs, and vibrant culture. You can visit local villages and cultural tours provide a deeper understanding of Kenya’s rich heritage.
• Historical Sites: Explore historical sites like Lamu Island and Fort Jesus in Mombasa, which offer insights into Kenya’s colonial past and Swahili culture.

Luxury and Comfort:

• Exclusive Lodges and Camps: Stay in luxurious safari lodges and tented camps that provide exceptional comfort, service, and immersive wildlife experiences. Many lodges offer private verandas, infinity pools, and bespoke dining experiences, ensuring a memorable stay​.
• Gourmet Cuisine: Enjoy gourmet cuisine that blends local flavors of nyama choma (meaning ‘grilled meat’ in Swahili) or Matoke (a rich traditional stew) with international culinary standards, prepared by skilled chefs.

Adventure and Activities:

• Game Drives: Experience thrilling game drives led by expert guides who help you track and spot wildlife.
• Walking Safaris: Discover the park’s hidden wonders on foot with guided walking safaris, offering a closer connection to nature.
• Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Experience the Mara from a unique perspective with a hot air balloon safari, providing stunning aerial views of the landscape and wildlife​​.
• Beach and Safari Combo: Combine your safari adventure with a relaxing beach holiday on Kenya’s stunning coastline, where you can enjoy white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Accessibility and Infrastructure:

• Well-developed Infrastructure: Kenya boasts excellent roads, well-maintained camps, and numerous entry points, making it accessible and convenient for travellers.
• Tourism Services: As a popular tourism destination, you have a wide range of services that ensure a smooth and enjoyable safari experience​.

Responsible Tourism:

• Conservation Efforts: Your visit can support vital conservation initiatives aimed at protecting Kenya’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Many lodges and camps are involved in conservation projects that look to safeguard both Kenya’s environment and local communities​.
• Community Support: Engage in responsible tourism practices that benefit local communities, fostering sustainable development.

A Kenya safari offers an extraordinary blend of wildlife, luxury, adventure, and culture. From the iconic Great Migration to the rich traditions of the Maasai people, it couldn’t be easier to plan a transformative Kenya safari experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Where to go in Kenya

Kenya is home to some of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations, each offering unique landscapes and wildlife experiences. The Maasai Mara National Reserve is a must-visit, renowned for the Great Migration where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara River from July to October. Amboseli National Park, with its breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and large elephant herds, offers another exceptional experience, especially from June to October. Tsavo National Parks, known for their red elephants and diverse terrains, provide an adventurous escape during the dry season. Samburu National Reserve, located in the arid north, is home to unique species such as the Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe, offering excellent wildlife viewing year-round. Each destination promises an extraordinary safari adventure, rich with Kenya’s natural beauty and diverse ecosystems.

• Amboseli National Park
• Laikipia Plateau
• Masai Mara National Reserve
• Mombasa and Surrounds
• Mount Kenya and Aberdares
• Northwest Safari Circuit
• Rift Valley Lakes
• Samburu Springs and Mount Meru National Park
• Southern Safari Circuit in Kenya
• The Coastal Belt
• Tsavo East and West
• Watamu and Malinda
• Where to Go on a Kenya Safari

A long-standing highlight of Kenya’s safari circuit, 392 km2 (151 square mile), Amboseli was set aside as a wildlife reserve in 1899 and made a national park in 1974.

Renowned for its high density of elephants, the park forms the unfenced core of an 8,000 km2 (3088 square mile) ecosystem that includes large tracts of Maasai community land both in Kenya and across the border in Tanzania.

Amboseli National Park lies at the northern base of Mount Kilimanjaro and, cloud permitting, offers tremendous opportunities to photograph plains wildlife below the snow-capped peak of Africa’s tallest mountain.

Highlights of Amboseli National Park

The 5,891m (19,327ft) summit of Kilimanjaro – the world’s tallest freestanding mountain and Africa’s highest peak – actually stands within Tanzania. Still, the finest views of it are to be had from Amboseli.

For much of the day, the volcanically-formed mountain is rendered invisible by a shroud of clouds, but this usually lifts at dusk and dawn to reveal the iconic snow-capped peak rising a total 5km (3,1mi) above the dusty plains in all its breathtaking glory.

A dominating blue presence on maps of the park, the eponymous Lake Amboseli only holds water briefly in years of exceptional rainfall.

The rest of the time, this flat dry dust bowl supports large numbers of wildebeest, zebra, gazelle, and various exotic birds. The exotic birds you can expect to include the Secretary bird, Yellow-necked spurfowl, and the localized Pangani longclaw.

Scattered stands of umbrella thorn woodland, dominated by the distinctive flat-topped Acacia tortilis, are home to giraffe, impala, and a host of striking dry-country birds, notably Von der Decken’s hornbill, red-and-yellow barbet, rosy-patched bushshrike, and steel-blue whydah.

The permanent Enkongo Narok and Olokenya Swamps, fed by underground streams that rise on the upper slopes of Kilimanjaro, are home to plentiful hippos and a wide range of aquatic birds, among them long-toed lapwing, painted snipe, great white pelican, and grey crowned-crane.

Another must-see landmark is Observation Hill, which offers panoramic views across a pretty lake towards Tanzania, with Kilimanjaro often visible at dusk and dawn.

Amboseli’s most famous and entertaining mammalian residents are the subjects of the Amboseli Elephant Research Project , founded in 1975 by Dr. Cynthia Moss and retains detailed records of most births, deaths, and relationships within an extended community of around 50 families, whose range centers on the national park.

As a result of this close monitoring, the elephants of Amboseli are unusually well-habituated and contain a high proportion of old tuskers – excellent sightings are all but guaranteed.

The core national park is surrounded by several private conservancies that comprise Maasai community land and offer exclusive traversing rights to one or two small camps or lodges.

The conservancies support several species seldom observed within the national park, for instance, Gerenuk and Lesser kudu, and the ability to head off-road allows guests to make the most of cheetah and lion sightings.

Practical Advice for an Amboseli Safari

• Coming by road, Amboseli is 230km (143mi) from Nairobi via Namanga, a drive that includes some heavily corrugated sections and takes about five hours in either direction.
• Road safaris in Kenya often combine Amboseli with Tsavo West National Park, which lies about 120km (75mi) away along a poor dirt road.
• It is also possible to fly into Amboseli from the likes of Nairobi, Mombasa, and the Masai Mara.
• Several safari lodges lie within the national park, and some excellent upmarket tented camps service the surrounding conservancies.

Dominated by livestock ranches in the colonial era, the vast Laikipia Plateau has since been transformed into one of East Africa’s finest and most exclusive wildlife destinations.

Indeed, this mosaic of several dozen private and community-owned sanctuaries, overseen by the non-profit Laikipia Wildlife Foundation , now operates as Kenya’s second-largest conservancy after Tsavo, comprising 9,500km2 (3668 square miles) in total.

Ecologically, the plateau is transitional to the central highlands and northern deserts. It provides an essential stronghold for rarities such as Grevy’s zebra, Black rhino, and African wild dog.

It also supports substantial numbers of lions, leopards, cheetahs, and dry-country specials such as Reticulated giraffes, Greater and Lesser kudu, Gerenuk and Beisa oryx.

Although the plateau forms a cohesive and jointly-managed ecological entity, the individual ranches and conservancy lodges all operate as self-contained tourist destinations.

Most offer an all-inclusive tour package similar to those associated with the famous private game reserves bordering South Africa’s Kruger National Park . Activities include expertly guided game drives, and some conservancies also offer night drives, guided walks, and horseback safari excursions .

Highlights of Laikipia Plateau

The 365km2 (140 square mile) Ol Pejeta is the most accessible of the Laikipia conservancies and the only one that welcomes day visitors. It flanks the upper reaches of the Ewaso Nyiro River at the southern end of the plateau, only 25km (15,5mi) from Nanyuki.

One of the most crucial rhino sanctuaries in East Africa, it also supports elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, cheetah, reticulated giraffe, Jackson’s hartebeest, Beisa oryx, gerenuk, and 500-plus bird species.

In addition to guided drives and walks, activities include lion tracking with researchers and visits to traditional villages.

Situated within Ol Pejeta, Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary was established in 1993 to protect orphans formerly housed at the Jane Goodall Institute in Burundi.

Since chimpanzees are not indigenous to Kenya, it’s the only place in the country where these charismatic apes can be seen on a Kenya safari tour , ideally by taking a boat trip along the Ewaso Nyiro River, which runs through the riparian forest where they now live.

A former cattle ranch reconstituted as a non-profit wildlife sanctuary in 1983, the 263km2 (102 square mile) Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is one of the oldest reserves in Laikipia and relatively accessible by car.

It’s a crucial stronghold for the endangered Grevy’s zebra, supporting around 400 individuals. It also provides sanctuary to significant numbers of Black and White rhinos and an easily spotted population of the localized Sitatunga antelope. Other wildlife includes elephant, lion, leopard, Spotted hyena, and a semi-resident pack of African wild dogs.

Remote and pristine, Northern Laikipia is carved up into a patchwork of community and private conservancies fronting the spectacular Ewaso Nyiro Gorge. The bush here is thicker and scrubbier than it is in the south, and while the Big Five are all present, densities are pretty low.

As a result, lodges tend to focus more on walking safaris than on motorized game viewing, making it an ideal bush retreat at the end of a longer safari in Kenya and offering an opportunity to concentrate on smaller mammals and exceptional birdlife.

Maralal, the informal capital of the Samburu people and gateway town to remote Lake Turkana, is perched at an altitude of 1,965m (6447ft) on the northern edge of the Laikipia Plateau. Its annual Camel Derby, held over the second weekend in August, is popular with residents and foreign visitors to Kenya.

Travel Tips for Laikipia Plateau

Private lodges in Laikipia mainly cater to the top end of the luxury Kenya safari market. Their standard package is an all-inclusive package that covers transportation, meals, activities, and, in some cases, drinks.

Coming from Nairobi, or elsewhere for that matter, the standard procedure would be to catch a scheduled flight from Wilson Airport to Nanyuki Airport, from which Ol Pejeta and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy are both relatively accessible by road. More remote lodges are usually reached by light aircraft charter.

Located in the far southwest of Kenya in the Great Rift Valley, the Masai Mara National Reserve is the country’s flagship park. It’s a vast wilderness of abundant big game, spectacular landscapes, and the scene of one of the planet’s most dramatic wildlife migrations .

The reserve is named after the Maasai people, a semi-nomadic tribe of pastoralists who have long inhabited the region, and their word to describe this landscape – “mara” – which means “spotted” – is a reference to the trees and bushes, as well as the shadows of passing clouds, that dot the plains.

The Masai Mara was established in 1961 as a wildlife sanctuary. Today, it encompasses an area greater than 370 000 acres, with no fences between the park and the Serengeti National Park’s neighboring wilderness across the border in Tanzania.

A Masai Mara safari experience is one of the best ways to see wildlife: the concentrations of game here are astounding.

Resident in the reserve are the Big Five (although not many rhinos, and they’re hard to spot), as well as vast herds of plains game, hippos, and crocodiles in the rivers and more than 500 species of birds.

The reserve is particularly famous for its big cats – lions, leopards, and cheetahs – and the nature documentary BBC’s Big Cat Diary was shot on the reserve’s plains.

While the wildlife viewing at almost any time of the year is superb, the Masai Mara is best visited during the months of the Great Migration.

This is when millions of zebra, wildebeest, and gazelle make their way north into the park from the Serengeti, crossing the Mara River in search of fresh grazing.

Watching vast herds of animals on the move, as well as the thrilling kills by the big cats that pursue them, is one of the most exciting Masai Mara safari experiences you can have, and it’s no wonder that the Great Migration is at the top of most safari travelers’ bucket lists .

Apart from wildlife, the landscapes of the Masai Mara are stunningly beautiful: the classic Out of Africa backdrops of seemingly never-ending savanna studded with photogenic acacia trees are jaw-dropping.

To the west, the park is bordered by the Oloololo Escarpment, a dramatic plateau, while the rest of the park consists of rolling grasslands, acacia woodlands, riverine forests, and rocky hills.

Two major rivers – the Talek and the Mara – cut through the Masai Mara National Reserve, splitting it into three sectors: the Sekenani Sector, which lies to the east of the Talek River, the Musiara Sector, which is sandwiched between the two rivers, and the Mara Triangle, which is west of the Mara River.

The Narok County Council controls the Musiara and Sekenani sectors. At the same time, the more remote Mara Triangle is administered by a non-profit conservancy company, the Trans Mara County Council.

Musiara Sector offers excellent game viewing in the Musiara Marsh and some of the most spectacular wildebeest crossings at the Mara River. In the southeast of the park (and bordered by the Sand, Talek, and Mara Rivers), the Central Plains make up the largest part of the reserve.

The expansive grasslands of the Central Plains attract vast herds of plains animals, especially during the Great Migration from August to October, when the area is also famed for exciting big cat sightings.

Within the Central Plains, the savanna of Paradise Plain is prime cheetah territory, while Rhino Ridge is ideal for black-backed jackals, spotted hyenas, and bat-eared foxes.

Head to Lookout Hill for incredible panoramas of the Olpunyaia Swamp and sightings of hippos and for scenes of wildebeest crossing the river during the months of the migration.

As the closest area to Nairobi and with a vast number of lodges, hotels, and camps, the Central Plains is the most popular area of the reserve for tourists.

The Masai Mara’s rivers are home to hippos, massive Nile crocodiles, and many species of waterbirds. At the same time, the Mara River, which winds its way through the national reserve, plays host to huge pods of hippos and the dangerous crossings of wildebeest during the Great Migration.

Highlights of the Masai Mara National Reserve

An excellent introduction to the reserve’s varied grassland, woodland, and wetland habitats is provided by dawn hot air balloon safaris offered by almost all the lodges.

Over August and October, hot air balloon trips can also provide an astonishing vulture’s-eye view of the migrating wildebeest herds.

The Big Five are all present and seen with varying degrees of ease. Elephants are very common, as are buffaloes, the latter being the favored prey of the reserve’s huge lion prides, which often number 15 or more adults.

Leopards are more elusive but quite easy to locate if you know where to look, and while numbers of Black rhinos dropped alarmingly in the late 20th century, up to three dozen individuals still survive.

The rhino population here is the only one in Kenya that can be regarded as fully indigenous, with a gene pool (as yet) undiluted by translocated individuals from southern Africa or of mixed origin.

Even outside of the great migrations safari season , ungulates are well represented. There’s no better place for close-up views of Eland, the world’s largest antelope, which seems less skittish here than in most areas. Also likely to be seen are giraffe, impala, gazelle, Topi, Coke’s hartebeest, reedbuck, Defassa waterbuck, hippo, and warthog.

The Mara provides a fine introduction to East Africa’s savanna birdlife, with more than 500 species recorded in and around its borders, including such perennial favorites as Lilac-breasted roller, Superb starling, and Little bee-eater. Which makes this the perfect destination for photographic safaris in Kenya.

Large ground birds such as ostrich, Southern ground hornbill, Kori bustard, and the localized Denham’s bustard are also common. The riparian forest along the Mara and Talek Rivers is an essential habitat for niche species such as Ross’s turaco, Schalow’s turaco, and Grey kestrel.

The drama of the wildebeest migration is encapsulated by the multiple river crossings that punctuate the great herds’ three-month tenure in the Masai Mara.

The river crossings usually start in August, when the wildebeest disperse into the plains surrounding the Mara River and continue regularly until the southward migration begins in October.

The wildebeest tend to stick to a few favored crossing points; the four used with greatest regularity lie along a 5km (3,1mi) stretch of river, meaning it’s pretty easy to keep tabs on any pending crossing.

Bounded by the Mara River to the east and Oloololo Escarpment to the northwest, the Mara Triangle is an untrammeled westerly wedge that forms part of the national reserve. Still, it has been managed by a non-profit management company, the Mara Conservancy , since 2001.

The Mara Triangle offers a similar standard of game viewing to the rest of the national reserve, but it’s easier to escape the congestions of safari vehicles that tend to congregate around wildlife sightings east of the river, especially during the migration season.

The national reserve is bordered by a cluster of private concessions and ranches, most of which are leased from or owned by local Maasai communities and serviced by a handful of small tented camps that share exclusive traversing rights.

The significant advantage of staying in one of these concessions is that, even more so than the Mara triangle, there is very little tourist traffic, so you are more likely to have sightings all to yourself. Many concessions also offer guided game walks and night drives, both of which are forbidden in the reserve proper.

Practical Advice for the Masai Mara National Reserve

• The easiest and most comfortable option is a fly-in safari package from Nairobi. This can be arranged through any reputable operator as a standalone safari or as part of a longer countrywide itinerary.
• Road safaris from Nairobi generally work out to be cheaper, but it’s worth bearing in mind that the bumpy six-hour drive will consume a significant proportion of your time and energy in either direction.
• There is no shortage of lodges and camps scattered in and around the Masai Mara . Unfortunately, this means that the reserve has acquired a reputation for being touristy and overcrowded, especially at the busiest times of the year.
• When you book a lodge, be aware that crowding tends to be most extreme in the sector southeast of the Talek River and its confluence with the Mara.
• The central sector, cupped between the Talek and Mara, tends to be quieter. Still, the best lodges for those seekng an authentic bush experience are those in the westerly Mara Triangle and private concessions and ranches outside the park.

Mombasa is steeped in history. Kenya’s largest port and second most populous city, it was first mentioned by name by the 12th-century Arab geographer Al Idrisi, who described it as a prosperous trade emporium selling spices, gold, and ivory to ships from Arabia and Asia.

Today, the bustling island-bound city center is overlooked by the imposing Portuguese-built Fort Jesus. Its languid older quarters possess an organic layout and historical feel rare in more modern cities.

For all its commercial and historical importance, Mombasa is not so much a tourist focus as a funnel through which most visitors pass en route to the suburban resort cluster of Nyali, Kenyatta, Bamburi, and Shanzu, or to Diana Beach 30km (19mi) to the south.

Inevitably, beach and marine activities dominate in this part of Kenya, but the underrated Shimba Hills National Reserve provides an excellent destination for those seeking a quick wildlife fix.

Highlights of Mombasa and its Surrounds

With thick seaward walls and turrets rising a full 16m (52ft) above the coral foundation, Fort Jesus has cut an imposing figure above Mombasa’s old town harbor since it was constructed by the Portuguese in the 1590s.

For centuries afterward, it was the most strategically important building on the East African Coast, changing hands more than a dozen times before its occupation by the British in 1895.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fort has more-or-less retained its original plan and incorporates a museum housing an impressive collection of artifacts unearthed during excavations, ranging from Chinese porcelain to Arabic pottery.

A panel of wall paintings executed by an unknown Portuguese sailor sometime before 1639 can be seen in situ. Overlooking the old harbor north of Fort Jesus, Mombasa Old Town is the city’s oldest continuously settled district, and several of its mosques were founded in medieval times.

It comprises narrow alleys lined by two- and three-story Victorian buildings adorned with oriental-influenced fretwork balconies, carved window frames, and Zanzibar doors.

It’s a lovely area to stroll around, infused with a striking sense of community. A post-millennial facelift has seen many once-dilapidated buildings restored as galleries, boutiques, or characterful juice and coffee shops.

The most popular beach destination near Mombasa, Diani is a long and idyllic stretch of palm-fringed white sand, lapped by calm, warm waters protected by an offshore reef.

Despite being the focal point of a holiday in Kenya’s all-inclusive beach package scene , Diani’s beach remains blissfully uncrowded by Mediterranean standards, and there’s some fine offshore diving and snorkeling on offer.

It holds plenty of interest for wildlife lovers too. Relict patches of coastal forest are home to Sykes, Vervet, and Angola colobus monkeys, along with striking forest birds such as Trumpeter hornbill and Schalow’s turaco.

Only 30km (19mi) inland of Diani, the underrated Shimba Hills National Reserve is an excellent destination for a day or overnight luxury safari in Kenya.

The only Kenyan stronghold of the handsome Sable antelope is also home to giraffe, zebra, warthog, elephant, buffalo, and leopard.

The reserve also protects a patch of coastal forest inhabited by Angola colobus monkey, Blue duiker, Red-bellied coast squirrel, and Green-headed oriole. For a leg stretch, take the two-hour guided hike from Elephant Lookout to the 21m (69ft) high Sheldrick Falls.

A popular day trip from Diani, Wasini Island is known for its so-called ‘Coral Garden’, a bleakly attractive landscape of partly exposed coral outcrops, sand flats, and mangroves that can be explored from a boardwalk managed as a community project by a local women’s group.

Immediately north of Mombasa, the 8km (5mi) stretch of coast running from Nyali to Kenyatta Beaches is less resort-like than Diani but still hosts some excellent beach hotels, and glass-bottomed boat excursions into Mombasa Marine National Reserve are on offer.

Bombolulu Workshops is an admirable non-profit craft center that creates employment for more than 150 disabled people and sells a wide variety of handcrafted items in its on-site shop.

Slotting in somewhere between a zoo and a safari park, family-friendly Haller Park comprises a reclaimed and reforested limestone quarry that can be explored along a 90-minute nature trail. Large enclosures contain wildlife such as giraffes, hippos, buffalo, and various antelope.

Practical Advice for Mombasa and Surrounds

• Central Mombasa stands on a 5.3km2 (2 square mile) island connected to the north coast by the 400m (1312ft) Nyali Bridge, the interior by the short Makupa Causeway, and the south coast by the Likoni Ferry across Kilindini Harbour.
• Most visitors arrive by air at Moi International Airport (MBA), which is serviced by a steady stream of domestic flights to/from Nairobi and elsewhere and by half-a-dozen international carriers.
• The airport is situated around 10km (6,2mi) from the city center via Makupa Causeway, and travelers heading to or from Diani need to allow sufficient time to pass through the city center and wait for the Likoni Ferry.
• Another popular way to travel between Nairobi and Mombasa is by train, following the so-called Lunatic Express constructed in the 1890s.
• Dozens of tour operators in Mombasa and Diani offer day trips further afield to the likes of Shimba Hills and Wasani Island. Car rental services are also widely available.
• There is no shortage of accommodation in and around Mombasa . The main clusters of beach resorts are at Diani and Nyali, while accommodation in Mombasa tends to be more low-key, with the most attractive options being found in and around the Old Town.

Very different in character to the rest of the country, the lushly vegetated and densely populated central highlands that stretch northward from Nairobi are capped by the hemisphere-straddling Mount Kenya and its permanent equatorial glaciers.

Rising to 5,199m, Mount Kenya is the second-tallest in Africa, topped only by Kilimanjaro , and it is linked to the more westerly 3,999m Aberdare Range by an elevated grassy saddle.

Oddly, these two massifs represent extremes of geological antiquity. Where the contorted folds of the Aberdares rank among the most ancient in East Africa, dating to before the Age of Dinosaurs, Mount Kenya is an extinct volcano that erupted into existence several million years after our earliest bipedal ancestors first strode across the Rift Valley floor.

Mount Kenya and the Aberdares are both protected within a national park. They also share many ecological affinities, and collectively support most of the country’s surviving Afro-montane forest and Afro-alpine moorland, the latter an otherworldly landscape of open moorland studded with bizarre giant forms of heather, lobelia and groundsel.

The two mountains host an outstandingly varied fauna, including all the Big Five alongside more localised forest specialists such as Sykes monkey, black and white colobus, Harvey’s red duiker, mountain antelope and giant forest hog.

Though not as popular as Kilimanjaro, the multi-day hike to Point Lenana – at 4,985m, the highest point on Mount Kenya accessible without specialist climbing equipment – leads through a similar spectrum of attitudinally-determined Afromontane vegetation zones.

And while it may appeal less to peak-baggers, Mount Kenya has the advantages of being less crowded, less expensive, and less likely to be treated as a single-minded exercise in summiting.

The highest two points on Mount Kenya at 5,199m and 5,188m respectively, Batian and Nelion Peaks are highly alluring to experienced climbers with specialist equipment.

Aberdare National Park is best known as the site of the tree hotels Treetops and The Ark, stilted timber monoliths which double as overnight hides overlooking forest-fringed water holes that attract a steady stream of wildlife, including elephant and black rhino.

Historic Treetops gained overnight fame in 1952 when it hosted the young Princess Elizabeth on the very night that her father King George VI died, and she became the uncrowned Queen of the United Kingdom.

Conceptually similar to the tree hotels of the Aberdares, Serena Mountain Lodge , the only hotel set in Mount Kenya’s forest zone, provides an excellent introduction to highland fauna.

It overlooks a waterhole that occasionally attracts all the Big Five, as well as forest specialists such as giant forest hog, bushpig, Sykes monkey, black-and-white colobus monkeys, silvery-cheeked hornbill and Hartlaub’s turaco.

Game drives in Aberdare National Park follow little-used network of rough 4×4-only roads from the forest zone into an Afro-montane moorland punctuate with lovely waterfalls.

Wildlife includes black rhino, elephant, buffalo, giant forest hog and various monkeys. The Aberdares is one of the few places in Africa where melanistic (all black) leopards are regular.

The forests support one of only two remaining wild populations of the mountain bongo Tragelaphus eurycerus isaaci – a beautifully marked and Critically Endangered large forest antelope that is now effectively endemic to Kenya having become extinct elsewhere in its range.

Kenya’s highest town, Nyahururu is perched at 2,360m on the edge of the Laikipia Plateau alongside the attractive Thomson’s Falls, which plummet 75m over a volcanic ledge into a forested gorge inhabited by black and white colobus monkeys and a varied selection of birds.

The private Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy is a wildlife orphanage that operates several important conservation projects, none more so than rehabilitation of a herd of captive-born mountain bongos for release into the forests of Mount Kenya, where it was last seen in the wild in 1994.

Founded in 1970 as a breeding centre for rhinos, Solio Game Ranch is a private conservancy situated on the grassy highland saddle that links Mount Kenya to the Aberdares.

Starting with a combined introduced population of 39, it now hosts at least 50 black and 85 white rhino. In addition, more than 100 individuals born at Solio have been translocated to other locations in Kenya.

Travel Tips for Mount Kenya and Aberdares

• All the sites listed above can be reached in up to four hours from Nairobi along well surfaced roads through Thika. Regular domestic charter flights connect Nairobi and the Masai Mara to Nanyuki Airport, from where it is a short drive to most sites of interest in the vicinity of Mount Kenya and the Aberdares.
• Hikes on Mount Kenya are best arranged with specialist operators who know the mountain well and employs experienced guides and porters. The shortest option for a a round hike is three days, but it is advisable to spend at least three nights on the mountain before ascending Lenana to minimise the effects of altitude.
• Any of the region’s three tree hotels – Treetops, The Ark or Serena Mountain Lodge – makes for a great overnight stop on road safaris between the Masai Mara or Rift Valley and Laikipia, Samburu-Buffalo Springs, Shaba or Meru.
• In addition to these upmarket lodges, medium-large highland towns such as Nyeri, Nanyuki, Nyahururu, Meru and Embu all have a few adequate restaurants and hotels. They also offer the opportunity to draw money or do some last-minute grocery shopping before heading out on safari.

The vast swathe of Kenya that runs north from Nairobi towards the remote border with Ethiopia is characterized by geographic extremes. On the one hand, the cool and fertile central highland rise towards the 5,199m (17,057ft) peak of Mount Kenya, not only Africa’s second-tallest mountain but sufficiently lofty to actually support glaciers less than 15km (9,3mi) south of the equator.

By contrast, the hostile plains that stretch north from Mount Kenya rank among the most arid and barren of sub-Sahelian landscapes, supporting a thin population of nomadic peoples who eke out a living as traditional pastoralists.

These contrasting landscapes offer some of Kenya’s most nuanced and varied game viewing. Admittedly, there’s nothing quite on the scale of the Masai Mara.

Still, the remote and rugged likes of Meru National Park, Samburu-Buffalo Springs National Reserve, and the private ranches of Laikipia support a fascinating array of dry-country wildlife. At the same time, the highlands around Mount Kenya are rich in forest wildlife.

Overall, the northwest will perhaps be less rewarding to first-time Kenya safari goers than the more famous southern circuit. Still, it arguably has more to offer repeat African visitors when it comes to unusual wildlife encounters and a genuine wilderness experience.

Highlights of the Northwest Kenya Safari Circuit

Protecting Africa’s second-tallest mountain, Mount Kenya National Park is also Kenya’s most popular destination for multi-day hikes . For ordinary hikers, the usual goal is the 4,985m (16,355ft) high point Lenana, but peak-baggers with suitable climbing experience and gear can head all the way up to the 5,199m (17,057ft) Batian Peak.

Weather permitting, the landscapes – from lush rainforest to stark equatorial glaciers – are stunning. Set in the forest zones of Mount Kenya and nearby Aberdare National Park , a trio of hide-like tree hotels such as Serena Mountain Lodge, Treetops, and The Ark offer a unique overnight game-viewing experience.

These lodges overlook water holes that regularly attract some or all of the Big Five and a host of secretive forest dwellers. The attractive Thomson’s Falls stands alongside Kenya’s highest town Nyahururu.

Solio Game Ranch, set on the grassy highland saddle between Mount Kenya and the Aberdares, operates Kenya’s most important breeding program for Black and White rhinos.

The vast Laikipia Plateau protects a patchwork of private and community-owned sanctuaries that offer exclusive all-inclusive safari packages focussing not only on the Big Five but also on rarities such as Grevy’s zebra and Black rhino.

At many ranches, game drives are supplemented by a more varied menu of night drives, guided walks, and horseback safaris .

Set on the arid plains north of Mount Kenya, the Samburu-Buffalo Springs-Shaba complex of national reserves protects a harsh environment alleviated by the forest-fringed waters of the perennial Ewaso Nyiro River.

It’s the best place to see a long list of localized dry-country mammals and birds whose range is limited to northern Kenya and bordering parts of Ethiopia and Somalia.

The Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy north of Samburu can be explored on exclusive multi-day camelback and walking safaris .

Arguably a safari in Kenya’s best-kept game-viewing secret, Meru National Park, holds out the possibility of seeing all the Big Five in an unrestrained and little-visited wilderness of grassy plains and babbling jungle-lined streams.

Now accessible along a newly asphalted road running north all the way to the Ethiopian border, the underrated Marsabit National Park protects a volcanic massif that rises in verdant isolation from the surrounding arid plains.

Supporting a cover of lush forest and studded with pretty crater lakes, the park is also home to a good variety of wildlife, including some impressive tuskers.

One of Kenya’s most alluring off-the-beaten-track destinations, Lake Turkana is the world’s largest desert lake, its deep jade waters submerging the Rift Valley floor for 300km (186mi) from north to south.

Set in an ancient landscape of extinct volcanoes and naked lava flows, this forbidding lake supports the world’s largest concentration of Nile crocodiles.

It is also where several of the world’s oldest and most important hominid fossils have been unearthed.

The lake hinterland is of great cultural interest thanks to the presence of traditional and colorfully-attired ethnic groups: the Rendille, Samburu, Turkana, and El Molo.

Practical Advice for a Northwest Kenya Safari Circuit

• The main airport in the region is Nanyuki Airport, which stands close to the eponymous town and is serviced by daily flights from the Masai Mara and Nairobi.
• Nanyuki is a short drive from most sites of interest in the region. Still, those heading on to more remote parts of Laikipia or Namunyak may need to charter an additional flight.
• Public reserves and parks are best visited on an organised safari, which can be arranged through any operator. Self-drive out of Nairobi is also a possibility.
• It’s pretty common to tag a visit to one or more of Laikipia, Meru, and/or Samburu-Buffalo Springs onto a southern safari taking in the likes of Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru.
• Any of the region’s three tree hotels – Treetops, The Ark, or Serena Mountain Lodge – would make for a great overnight break en route.
• Hikes on Mount Kenya are best arranged with specialist operators who know the mountain well.
• Upmarket lodges and tented camps can be found in all national parks and listed conservancies. Private lodges in Laikipia mainly cater to the top end of the safari market.
• Their standard offering is an all-inclusive package that covers transportation, meals, activities, and, in some cases, drinks. Most lodges in public reserves operate more like conventional hotels.

The sheer basaltic cliffs of the Rift Valley northwest of Nairobi hem in a classic East African landscape of open savannah studded with jagged volcanic outcrops and strung with beautiful lakes.

Large mammals are less prolific than in the Masai Mara or Amboseli, but the area is renowned for its prolific birdlife.

The main attention-grabbers are the million-strong flocks of flamingos that frequently amass at saline lakes Nakuru and Bogoria.

Then again, the freshwater lakes Naivasha and Baringo vie with each other for the accolade of ‘ top general birding hotspot outside the national park system’.

Lake Nakuru National Park is one of the best places in East Africa to look for both Black and White rhinos, while the likes of Crescent Island, Hell’s Gate National Park, and Green Crater Lake Sanctuary offer fantastic opportunities to see large wildlife on foot.

Highlights of Rift Valley Lakes

Fringed by fever-tree forests and low mountains, freshwater Lake Naivasha, only 90km (56mi) northwest of Nairobi, provides a superb ornithological primer for East Africa. Resident birders talk glibly about ticking off 100 species before breakfast.

The shallows host large numbers of hippos, while Crescent Island offers the opportunity to walk amongst giraffes, buffalo, and waterbuck.

A popular afternoon treat is high tea at Elsamere Field Study Centre, which boasts a small museum dedicated to its former owner Joy Adamson of Born Free fame, and lovely lakeshore gardens frequented by black-and-white Colobus monkeys.

Named after the twin basaltic cliffs that guard its northern entrance, Hell’s Gate National Park protects a dramatic volcanic landscape of ancient lava plugs, sulphuric water vents, and obsidian outcrops.

It’s also one of the last places in East Africa where one can walk or bicycle unguided through herds of plains wildlife. Buffalo, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, gazelle, and eland are resident, and elephant, lion, and cheetah pass through occasionally.

The Green Crater Lake Sanctuary is a private reserve centered on the hyper-alkaline Lake Songasoi, which owes its verdant cast to a dense concentration of Spirulina algae.

Nestled in a forested volcanic crater, the scenic lake often attracts large flocks of flamingos. Guided game walks or horseback excursions come with a good chance of spotting black-and-white Colobus monkeys, buffalo, and various antelope.

The cluster of national parks and reserves set in the semi-arid lowlands running broadly northeast from Mount Kenya includes some of the country’s most rewarding safari destinations .

In part, this is because they protect a very different fauna from their more southerly counterparts: not only an intriguing selection of localised dry-country large mammals, including reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, and gerenuk but also a long list of birds whose range is more-or-less confined to the north of Kenya and far south of Ethiopia.

The region’s best-known attraction is the near-contiguous trio of Samburu, Buffalo Springs, and Shaba National Reserves, which protect a combined area of 440km2 (170 square miles) flanking the perennial Ewaso Nyiro River as it flows through an otherwise austere landscape of scrubby rocky plains and bare termite mounds.

Less famous is the 870km2 (336 square mile) Meru National Park, whose cover of tropical grassland and savanna is bisected by a series of narrow perennial streams that rise in the central highlands and empty into the Tana River – Kenya’s longest waterway – as it runs along the park’s southern boundary.

Highlights of Samburu Springs and Mount Meru National Park

Named after the red-robed pastoralist people who inhabit the surrounding plains, Samburu National Reserve, set on the north bank of the Ewaso Nyiro, protects a relatively hilly tract of dry thornbush that rises to 1,250m (4,100ft) at Ol Doinyo Koitogorr.

Characteristic wildlife of the open plains includes the endangered Grevy’s zebra, which is far bulkier and more narrowly striped than the familiar common zebra, and the handsome reticulated giraffe, distinguished by its geometrically-marked coat.

Dry-country antelope include Beisa oryx, Lesser kudu, Guenther’s dik-dik, and the bizarre stretch-necked gerenuk, which habitually stands erect on its hind legs to reach the leaves that most other antelope can’t.

Buffalo Springs National Reserve , set on the south bank of the Ewaso Nyiro, supports a similar range of wildlife to facing Samburu.  It’s one of the more reliable places on a Kenya safari for leopard sightings, and the springs for which it’s named – a perennial marsh fed by underground water – attract plenty of wildlife in the dry season.

Situated on the south bank of the Ewaso Nyiro, only 5km (3,1mi) east of Buffalo Springs, the little-visited Shaba National Reserve is, if anything, even drier and more sparsely vegetated than its neighbors, but the range of wildlife is similar.

The main game-viewing loop runs through a mosaic of lava-strewn plains, parched grassland, and acacia woodland, offering glimpses of the river and passing by several hot springs.

In the far east, a spring-fed waterhole once used as a campsite by Joy Adamson now attracts a steady trickle of elephants, buffalo, lions, reticulated giraffes, Grevy’s zebra, and antelope.

A long list of avian specials whose range is largely restricted to northern Kenya and bordering parts of Somalia and/or Ethiopia makes Samburu-Buffalo Springs-Shaba a key site for bird-watching safaris in Kenya.

Literal heavyweights on this list include the Somali ostrich, Abyssinian ground hornbill, and the spectacular vulturine guinea fowl, and it’s the most reliable site in East Africa for Egyptian vultures.

Other specials include white-headed mousebird, Somali bee-eater, Golden pipit, Rufous chatterer, Bare-eyed thrush, Bristle-crowned starling, and Black-capped social weavers.

Running north from Samburu-Buffalo Springs, the 3,940km2 (1,521 square mile) Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy protects an area of arid northern plains surrounding the Mathews Range, whose forested slopes host plenty of wildlife and several rare plant species. The main attractions here are multi-day camelback and walking safaris .

More lush and moist in feel than Samburu-Buffalo Springs-Shaba, Meru National Park possesses a genuine wilderness atmosphere that makes it a favorite with repeat Kenya safari-goers.

All the Big Five are here. You can be pretty confident of seeing elephants, buffalo, and rhinos, but big cats are generally quite challenging to spot on the tall grassland.

The reticulated giraffe is very common, but other dry-country ungulates, such as Lesser kudu, Grevy’s zebra, Beisa oryx, and Gerenuk are relatively scarce.

The largest of 13 waterways running through Meru National Park, the palm-lined Rojewero River flows through an excellent hippo pool. It is also a good place to look for African finfoot, Pel’s fishing owl, Giant kingfisher, and the endemic Golden palm weaver.

The boundary between Meru National Park and the remote Mwingi National Reserve is a lushly-forested stretch of the Tana River. Here, the rapids known as Adamson’s Falls (after George Adamson) are the most accessible point anywhere along the course of what is Kenya’s largest waterway.

Meru National Park’s Ura River is the site of Elsa’s Grave , the burial place of the lioness subject of the film Born Free. Hand-reared as a pet by Joy and George Adamson, Elsa was released into Meru National Park in 1958 and successfully reared three cubs there before dying of a tick-borne fever at age five.

Practical Advice for Samburu Springs and Mount Meru National Park

• All the reserves and parks described above are best visited on an organised safari in Kenya, though self-drive is also a possibility. They can be reached in a long half-day drive from Nairobi via the frontier town of Isiolo or appended onto a safari, also taking in the likes of Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and the tree hotels of Aberdares and Mount Kenya.
• The closest airport for scheduled flights is Nanyuki, but charter flights directly to the reserves are available.
• Samburu-Buffalo Springs is serviced by a good range of lodges, tented camps, and campsites. There are also lodges and camps in Shaba and Meru, but fewer, which only adds to these reserves’ aura of exclusivity.

Southern Kenya offers some of the country’s finest wildlife viewing. The region is a showcase for three of East Africa’s most thrilling safari highlights: the migratory wildebeest that flood into the Masai Mara , the equally prolific flamingos, and the elephant herds that sweep across the Amboseli Plains below the snow-capped peak of Kilimanjaro .

While this region forms the core of most safari itineraries through Kenya , it also offers some great destinations for independent travel and off-the-beaten-track safaris in Kenya.

Lake Naivasha, Lake Baringo, Hell’s Gate, Kakamega Forest, and Saiwa are all perfectly accessible to self-drivers or those using public transport.

Highlights of a Southern Safari Circuit in Kenya

Renowned for its dense population of well-habituated elephants, Amboseli National Park, above the Tanzanian border at the northern base of Mount Kilimanjaro, is the best place to photograph plains wildlife below its majestic and photogenic snow-capped peak.

Kenya’s most prominent safari destination is the Masai Mara National Reserve , the most northerly component in an immense cross-border ecosystem that incorporates Tanzania’s Serengeti Plains and forms the arena for the spectacular annual migration of two million migratory wildebeest.

The Masai Mara peaks in popularity between August and November, when the wildebeest cross over from Tanzania, but offers fabulous Big Five safaris and predator-viewing all year round.

A superb base for keen walkers, birdwatchers, and independent budget travelers, scenic Lake Naivasha offers enough activities to keep you busy for a week.

You can walk amongst big game on Crescent Island or in the nearby – and wonderfully scenic – Hell’s Gate National Park and Green Crater Lake Sanctuary.

More challenging is the hike up the barely vegetated slopes of Mount Longonot, a 2,776m (9,108ft) high volcano that last erupted in the 1860s and whose summit offers fine views in all directions.

Although it’s no longer a reliable site for the flamingos that used to amass in its shallows, peri-urban Lake Nakuru is set within a small national park that offers a good chance of spotting both Black and White rhinos in the course of one game drive.

Often home to hundreds of thousands of flamingos, Lake Bogoria National Reserve is also noteworthy for the dramatic hot geysers that erupt close to its western shore.

A top-notch birding destination , freshwater Lake Baringo is also home to plenty of hippos and crocs and has a refreshingly off-the-beaten-track feel.

The southwest of Kenya is occupied by Lake Victoria , which it shares with Uganda and Tanzania. This is the largest lake in Africa at 66,800 km2 (2579 square miles), but its Kenyan portion is poorly developed for tourism and suited only to fans of genuinely off-the-beaten-track travel.

A contender for Kenya’s most underrated attraction, Kakamega Forest National Reserve protects the country’s largest stand of the equatorial rainforest. It’s easily explored on foot, and its diverse fauna possesses strong affiliations to Central Africa.

A tally of seven primate species includes black-and-white Colobus, Blue and red-tailed monkeys, and the nocturnal Potto.

The checklist of 360 bird species has more than 30 forest-dwellers found nowhere else in Kenya, among them the spectacular Great blue turaco.

Another underrated pedestrian-friendly gem is the tiny Saiwa Swamp National Park. Traversed by a walking trail that leads to a series of wooden viewing platforms, it’s possibly the best place in Africa to observe the semi-aquatic Sitatunga antelope and white-bearded DeBrazza’s monkey. A long list of forest and swamp birds includes the gorgeous Ross’s turaco.

Practical Advice for a Southern Safari Circuit in Kenya

• The most straightforward way to explore the Masai Mara , Amboseli, and to a lesser extent, Lake Nakuru is on a fly-in safari combining one or all of these destinations with other national parks and reserves elsewhere in Kenya.
• It’s also possible to drive into and between reserves, a more affordable option that will entail a lot of time spent on dusty roads getting from A to B. Most other destinations within this region are less remote and quite easily reached by car or by using public transport.
• Accommodations to suit most tastes and budgets can be found throughout the region. These range from exclusive tented camps and larger hotel-like lodges in and around the national parks and reserves to agreeable budget lodgings in more accessible destinations.

Kenya’s gorgeous Indian Ocean coastline is the ideal place to chill out on the beach after a few days on a dusty safari. It is lined with a seemingly endless succession of white sandy beaches that look like they’ve leaped straight out of the pages of a travel brochure.

Indeed, for a country often billed as the ultimate home of the safari, Kenya can also claim to be one of the world’s great beach destinations. Better still, there is much more to the Kenyan coast than a stock tropical beach holiday .

Most coastal towns and villages possess a strong sense of place, determined both by the cultural cohesion of the Swahili people who inhabit them and the antiquity of medieval trade ports such as Mombasa, Malindi, and the jungle-bound ruins of Gedi.

The offshore reefs, alive with colorful fish, offer world-class snorkeling and diving. At the same time, coastal forests protected in the likes of Shimba Hills National Reserve and endemic-rich Arabuko-Sokoke National Park are rich in terrestrial birds and mammals.

Deeper inland, the vast plains of Tsavo East and West National Parks – which together form the country’s largest contiguous protected area – offer fine Big Five game-viewing in a classic African safari setting .

Highlights of The Coastal Belt of Kenya

The historic island port of Mombasa is Kenya’s second-largest city and the central air, rail, and road gateway to the coast. Its atmospheric old town is capped by the 16m (52ft) high Fort Jesus, which has stood sentinel over the old harbor since the Portuguese constructed it in the 1590s.

Arguably the most popular and best-equipped tourist destination on the Kenyan coast, Diani doubles as an idyllic palm-fringed beach resort and base for some fine marine and terrestrial wildlife viewing.

The rolling slopes of Shimba Hills National Reserve, inland of Diani, support giraffes, zebra, warthog, elephant, buffalo, and sable antelope.

Situated to the south of Diani, only 10km (6,2mi) from the Tanzanian border, Shimoni is a low-key fishing village whose name – “Place of the Hole” – alludes to a gloomy beachfront cave that once served as a holding pen for slaves before they were shipped to Zanzibar. Chains and hooks dating to the cave’s ignominious past are still embedded in the walls.

Kenya’s most overt resort town, Malindi, has a delightful beach and lively Italian-influenced culinary scene, but it’s also scattered with landmarks that recall its long history as a medieval Swahili port and 16th-century Portuguese stronghold.

Arguably the most beautiful beach resort in Kenya, low-key Watamu is known for its superb offshore snorkeling and proximity to the jungle-bound Gedi National Monument and endemic-rich Arabuko-Sokoke National Park.

The remote and little-visited 28km2 (11 square mile) Tana River Primate Reserve protects an isolated stretch of riverine forest that supports the only known populations of two critically endangered species of endemic monkey: Tana River red colobus and Tana mangabey.

The sleepy and remote Lamu Archipelago is liberally endowed with idyllic beaches and snorkel sites, but its main attraction is Lamu Town, a traditional Swahili enclave whose unique architectural and cultural integrity has led to it being inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visits are not currently recommended due to security concerns relating to its proximity to Somalia.

The vast Tsavo West National Park, bounded by the main road between Nairobi and Mombasa, is an untrammeled Big Five destination notable for its wilderness atmosphere, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and dense population of Black rhino protected within the well-guarded Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary .

Larger even than the eastern namesake it borders, Tsavo East National Park protects a wonderfully remote habitat of red-earth plains bisected by the perennial Galana River and inhabited by plentiful elephants, along with an alluring variety of localized dry-country birds and mammals.

Ideal for beach holidaymakers seeking a one-night safari break, the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, which borders Tsavo West, offers stellar elephant viewing, as well as a good range of other plains wildlife, including lion and leopard.

Practical Advice for The Coastal Belt of Kenya

• The main gateway to the region is Mombasa, whose Moi International Airport is serviced by a steady stream of domestic and international flights. Mombasa is also connected to Nairobi by a direct 480km (298mi) road flanked by Tsavo West and East National Parks and a historic railway line that started operating in the 1890s.
• There are also regular flights to Malindi and Lamu, or you can travel by road between Mombasa and Diani, Malindi, or Watamu. Visits to Tsavo West and East National Parks, Shimba Hills National Reserve and Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary are best arranged with operators, though self-drive is a possibility for the intrepid.
• Accommodation is plentiful throughout the region, though it tends to be pricey in the national parks and more exclusive beach resorts. Good budget accommodation is available in Mombasa and Malindi.

Extending over 21,812km2 (8421 square miles), both Tsavo East and West form the largest conservation area in Kenya, protecting significant populations of all the Big Five.

Despite this, the parks are less popular than the Masai Mara and Amboseli due to the relatively low wildlife densities and difficulty spotting animals in the dense acacia woodland.

Separated somewhat arbitrarily by the main road between Nairobi and Mombasa, the two parks are nevertheless quite different in character.

Tsavo West protects a volcanic landscape of jagged black outcrops, solidified lava flows, and tangled acacia woodland overshadowed by Kilimanjaro on the southwest horizon.

The red-earth plains of the larger and less developed Tsavo East have stronger affiliations with the semi-arid badlands of northern Kenya, despite being alleviated by the presence of the perennial Galana River.

Both parks have a limitless wilderness atmosphere that will appeal to repeat safari-goers, with the western component being marginally better for conventional Big Five viewing. At the same time, its eastern counterpart ranks higher for localized antelope and bird species associated with northern Kenya.

Highlights of Tsavo East and West in Kenya

The Shetani Lava Flow is the most spectacular of the many stark volcanic landmarks that scar the northern circuit of Tsavo West.

A 200-year-old stream of jagged tar-coloured solidified magma, its Swahili name means ‘Devil’. It’s avoided by locals, whose oral traditions recall that many people and animals were buried alive beneath the fast-flowing fiery lava when it erupted from the nearby Chyulu Hills.

At once immensely beautiful and a fascinating geological phenomenon, the oasis-like Mzima Springs is fed by a sparkling clear subterranean stream that rises on Kilimanjaro before being filtered through the porous volcanic rocks of the Chyulu Hills.

The primary source of water for Mombasa, Mzima supports a lush groundwater forest of palms and fever trees, plenty of woodland and aquatic birds, and a few pods of hippos that can sometimes be observed underwater from a submerged observation chamber.

Created in 1986 to protect the Tsavo West’s last few Black rhinos, Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary is enclosed by a tall electric fence and guarded by a dedicated anti-poaching unit.

The sanctuary has five waterholes and now supports a population of around 70 Black rhinos (roughly one per square kilometer), which means the chances of spotting this elusive creature are excellent.

A shallow sump-like waterbody set in the far south of Tsavo West below Tanzania’s North Pare Mountains, Lake Jipe attracts plenty of elephants and supports large numbers of hippos and crocodiles. Boat trips offer an opportunity to see localized aquatic birds such as Lesser jacana, Pygmy goose, and Black coucal.

Lake Chala is a translucent crater lake situated on the southern foot slopes of Kilimanjaro bordering Tanzania. Almost 3km (1.9mi) in diameter, yet practically invisible until you topple over the caldera’s rim, wherein it nestles, the lake is gorgeous when Kilimanjaro emerges from the clouds on the northern horizon.

Rising to 2,208m (7,244ft) on the border of Tsavo West, the isolated Taita Hills is the only Kenyan component of the Eastern Arc Mountains, a series of 13 massifs whose ancient forests are known for their high level of endemism.

It is renowned among birdwatchers as the only place to see the Critically Endangered Taita thrush, along with Taita apalis, Taita white-eye, and Taita falcon.

Sharing an unfenced border with Tsavo West, Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary lies on the scrubby plains below the mountains after which it is misleadingly named.

It’s most often visited on a standalone overnight safari package from the coast, inclusive of day and night drives – the latter offering a good chance of spotting secretive nocturnal species such as leopard, White-tailed mongoose, Honey badger, and Genet. The quirkily stilted Salt Lick Lodge is wonderfully positioned for in-house elephant viewing.

A significant focal point for game-viewing in Tsavo East is Aruba Dam, which was constructed on the Voi River in 1951 and is the only permanent water source in the vicinity.

Lions are often seen resting below the trees around the dam, while the road running west towards Voi Gate is an excellent place to look for cheetahs, impala, Coke’s hartebeest, zebra, and gazelle.

The arid plains running north towards the Galana River pass through scrubby plains that support several localized dry-country creatures, notably Gerenuk, Fringe-eared oryx, Somali ostrich, Golden pipit, Vulturine guineafowl, and Golden-breasted starling.

The most significant landmark on the Galana River as it runs through Tsavo East is Lugard Falls, a series of rapids that flows across a bed of black dolomite striated with white quartzite rocks. A good hippo pool stands a short way downriver of the falls.

A significant landmark in Tsavo East, the 1.5km (0,93mi) long Mudanda Rock – East Africa’s answer to Ayer’s Rock – overlooks a waterhole where elephant and buffalo gather to drink and wallow, and leopards sometimes emerge towards dusk.

Practical Advice for Tsavo East and West in Kenya

• Road access to both Tsavo East and West is straightforward since the two parks are bisected by the Nairobi-Mombasa highway, which also forms the border between them.
• Tsavo West is often incorporated into a southern road safari out of Nairobi or running between Nairobi and the coast, together with Amboseli. Tsavo East is perhaps more often visited as a standalone road excursion from coastal resorts such as Malindi or Mombasa, as is the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary.
• In all instances, it’s best to make arrangements with an experienced safari company, though self-drive out of Nairobi or Mombasa is a possibility too, and charter flights service both national parks.
• Tsavo East and West and Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary are all served by a selection of upmarket lodges and tented camps . Budget accommodation can be found in the towns of Voi or Mtito Andei, which stand alongside the Nairobi-Mombasa highway close to the main gates for Tsavo East and West, respectively.

Like Mombasa, Malindi is an ancient Swahili trading port that fell under Portuguese influence in the 16th century. It is far smaller and more low-rise than Mombasa and has a less conspicuous sense of antiquity, though the old town is scattered with a few important historical landmarks.

These days, Malindi, more than any other comparably large town in Kenya, functions mainly as a beach resort. It offers a good choice of midrange lodges aimed at the European package market, as well as a lively beachfront restaurant scene and a host of other urban distractions, from nightclubs to supermarkets.

Separated from Malindi by 15km (9,3mi) of Indian Ocean frontage, Watamu feels less like a resort town than an overgrown fishing village and is all the better for it.

Boasting arguably the most gorgeous beach in Kenya, Watamu also offers superb offshore snorkeling in the calm, transparent waters of Turtle Bay. It stands practically within walking distance of the jungle-bound ruined medieval city of Gedi and forest wildlife of Arabuko-Sokoke National Park.

Highlights of Watamu and Malinda

The most significant monuments in Malindi Old Town are a pair of 15th-century pillar tombs standing in front of the seafront Friday Mosque and a small thatched chapel built by the Portuguese in the early 16th century.

The limestone Da Gama Cross, erected by the pioneering Portuguese navigator Vasco Da Gama after he landed at Malindi in 1499, stands on a windswept coral peninsula a short walk south of the town center.

The National Museum of Malindi is housed in the three-story waterfront ‘House of Columns’ built by an Indian trader circa 1890. Displays include a stuffed 77kg (170lb) coelacanth and a collection of engraved Gohu burial totems.

Malindi and Watamu have good sandy swimming beaches, but the latter’s Turtle Bay stands out scenically, thanks to a distinctive forest of ragged coral formations that rise out of the preposterously clear water like giant mushrooms.

Africa’s oldest marine reserve, Malindi Marine National Reserve, protects 213km2 (82 square miles) of offshore reefs and open water, running south from Malindi to Mida Creek. It offers some of East Africa’s finest marine wildlife viewing, with the tranquil coral gardens of Watamu’s Turtle Bay ideal for snorkeling, while diving is usually undertaken on the more extensive barrier reefs further out to sea.

Separated from the open sea by the Watamu Peninsula, Mida Creek is an essential marine bird-watching site that can be explored on a stilted boardwalk and small hide constructed as part of a community-based ecotourism project.

A vital wintering site for Palaearctic migrants such as Crab plover and Grey plover, it is also a good place for Mangrove kingfisher and Greater flamingo. The surrounding coastal scrub hosts the less striking, but very rare, Sokoke pipit.

The 420km2 (162 square mile) Arabuko-Sokoke National Park protects East Africa’s largest remaining tract of coastal forest and a host of globally threatened and near-endemic mammals and birds, including Ader’s duiker, Sokoke dog mongoose, Yellow-rumped elephant-shrew, Chestnut-fronted helmetshrike, Clarke’s weaver and Sokoke scops owl.

Large fresh paths often seen on the park’s extensive network of roads and walking trails serve to remind that it’s also home to a furtive and seldom-seen population of 120 elephants.

The most impressive and atmospheric of the many medieval ruins along the Kenyan coast, Gedi National Monument protects the remains of a 20-hectare walled Swahili city-state that flourished as a cabinet of maritime trade between the 11th and 13th centuries.

The museum displays artifacts found on site but manufactured from as far afield as India, Egypt, Arabia, and Spain, and the jungle-bound ruins include a 900m2 (9,688 square foot) Sultan’s Palace and eight mosques. A birdwatching platform high in a baobab tree between the palace and the largest mosque offers a superb monkey’s-eye overview of the site.

Also known as Hell’s Kitchen, the Marafa Depression, 35km (22mi) northwest of Malindi, is studded with spectacular sandstone pillars that stand up to 30m (98ft) tall and come across like a miniature version of the Grand Canyon. It is most impressive in the early morning when the layered columns glow pink.

Practical Advice for Watamu and Malinda in Kenya

• Watamu and Malindi lie about a 90-minute drive north of Mombasa. There are also scheduled flights from Mombasa, Lamu, and Nairobi to Malindi, whose airport lies 3km (1,9mi) from the town centre and less than 20km (12mi) from Watamu.
• Both towns have plenty of accommodation. Malindi is stronger on package hotels and budget accommodations aimed at backpackers, while Watamu’s hotels tend to have a more individualistic feel.
• Any hotel or local operator can set up diving and snorkeling excursions or day trips to Gedi, Arabuko-Sokoke, or the Marafa Depression.

Kenya’s many national parks and reserves, each have their own unique attractions and wildlife experiences. 

Here’s a detailed guide to the key regions across this East African country and what you should consider them for your next Kenya safari:

1. Maasai Mara National Reserve

Overview: The Maasai Mara is arguably Kenya’s most famous safari destination, renowned for  the spectacular Great Migration, which showcases its expansive wildlife diversity.

Key Highlights:

• Great Migration: Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles migrating from the Serengeti to the Maasai Mara, usually between July and October. The dramatic river crossings of the Mara River are a highlight.
• Big Cats: The Maasai Mara is one of the best places in Africa to see big cats, including lions, cheetahs, and leopards. The reserve’s open plains make it easier to spot these predators in action.

Unique Facts:

• The Maasai Mara is named in honor of the Maasai people, who inhabit the region, and the Mara River, which runs through it.
• The reserve covers an area of approximately 1,510 square kilometers (580 square miles) and is contiguous with the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania​ 

2. Amboseli National Park

Overview: Amboseli National Park is famous for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. The park’s name is taken from the Maasai word meaning “salty dusty”, referring to its arid conditions.

• Elephants: Amboseli is known for its large free-roaming elephant herds, which can be seen against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro.
• Bird Watching: The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 bird species recorded.
• Amboseli covers an area of 392 square kilometers (151 square miles) and features a mix of wetlands, savannah, and woodlands​.
• The park is a protected area for elephants, Cape buffalo, impala, lion, cheetah, spotted hyena, Masai giraffe, Grant’s zebra, and blue wildebeest. 

3. Samburu National Reserve

Overview: Located in the northern part of Kenya, Samburu National Reserve is known for its unique wildlife species and arid landscapes.

• Unique Species: Samburu is home to species that are rare in other parts of Kenya, including Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx.
• Ewaso Ng’iro River: The reserve is centered around the Ewaso Ng’iro River, which attracts a variety of wildlife, especially during the dry season.
• Samburu’s arid conditions and unique wildlife make it a fascinating destination for safari enthusiasts.
• The reserve covers an area of 165 square kilometers (64 square miles) and is part of a larger ecosystem that includes Buffalo Springs and Shaba reserves.

4. Tsavo National Parks (East and West)

Overview: Tsavo East and Tsavo West together form one of the largest national park areas in the world, offering vast, unspoiled wilderness and diverse wildlife.

• Tsavo East: Well-known for its red elephants (coated in the park’s red dust) and the Yatta Plateau, the longest lava flow in the world, formed through successive eruptions of the nearby Ol Doinyo Sabuk and Kilimambogo volcanoes thousands of years ago.
• Tsavo West: Famous for its dramatic landscapes, including the Mzima Springs, Shetani Lava Flows, and the Chyulu Hills.
• Tsavo National Park covers an area of approximately 22,000 square kilometers (8,494 square miles), making it one of the largest protected areas in Kenya.
• The parks are named after the Tsavo River, which flows from west to east through the parks​​.

5. Lake Nakuru National Park

Overview: Lake Nakuru National Park is famous for its flamingo populations and is a sanctuary for both black and white rhinos.

• Flamingos: The park is renowned for its large flocks of flamingos that feed on the algae in the lake.
• Rhino Sanctuary: Lake Nakuru is one of the best places in Kenya to see both black and white rhinos.
• The park covers an area of 188 square kilometers (73 square miles) and is centered around Lake Nakuru, one of the Rift Valley soda lakes.
• Besides flamingos, the park is home to over 450 bird species and a variety of other wildlife, including lions, leopards, and Rothschild giraffes​.

Start Planning Your Safari

Kenya’s diverse regions each offer unique wildlife experiences and opportunities. Whether you want to witness the dramatic river crossings in the Maasai Mara, marvel at the large elephant herds in Amboseli, or explore the unique species in Samburu, Kenya has something for every safari enthusiast.

Travel with Confidence

With over 20 years of experience, our team will help you tailor your itinerary to your perfect adventure., 24/7 support, personalised, popular kenya safaris.

Kenya offers a variety of safari experiences to suit every traveller. The classic Maasai Mara safari is a highlight, featuring the Great Migration and close encounters with the Big Five. Amboseli safaris provide stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and opportunities to see large elephant herds. Tsavo safaris are perfect for those seeking adventure in vast, diverse landscapes, while Samburu safaris highlight unique species and dramatic scenery. Whether you prefer a luxury lodge or a mobile tented camp, Kenya’s popular safaris cater to all preferences, ensuring an immersive wildlife experience.

Affordable Masai Mara Safari

East Africa Kenya Maasai Mara

From $ 3050 /USD

Oltyiani Trail - Camping with the Maasai

From $ 5350 /USD

Migration Safari Kenya & Tanzania

East Africa Kenya Maasai Mara Tanzania Safaris Ngorongoro Crater Serengeti

From $ 8350 /USD

Governors Camp Collection Safari

East Africa Kenya Lake Naivasha Lake Nakuru National Park Laikipia, Lewa and Ol Pejeta Conservancy Maasai Mara

From $ 11800 /USD

Kenya & Tanzania Safari

East Africa Kenya Chyulu Hills Maasai Mara Tanzania Safaris Tarangire

From $ 15600 /USD

Highlights of Kenya Luxury Fly-In Safari

East Africa Kenya Nairobi Chyulu Hills Maasai Mara

From $ 10068 /USD

21 Kenya Safaris to choose from

Stay for 4 - 17 days

Experience our Tailor-made Tours in Kenya

When is the best month to travel to kenya.

The best time to visit Kenya depends on your interests. For wildlife enthusiasts, the dry season from June to October is ideal, with the Great Migration peaking in the Maasai Mara between July and October. Birdwatchers and those interested in lush landscapes will enjoy the wet season from November to May, particularly the short rains in November and the long rains from March to May. Each season offers unique opportunities, from witnessing newborn animals to enjoying fewer crowds and vibrant scenery.

• Kenya in January
• Kenya in February
• Kenya in March
• Kenya in April
• Kenya in May
• Kenya in June
• Kenya in July
• Kenya in August
• Kenya in September
• Kenya in October
• Kenya in November
• Kenya in December

Our Recommended Tours in Kenya

Discover Africa’s recommended Kenya safari tours offer a perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and cultural immersion. Our Maasai Mara tour ensures you witness the Great Migration and encounter the Big Five, while our Amboseli tour provides stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and close encounters with elephants. Tsavo tours offer a taste of Kenya’s vast wilderness, and Samburu tours highlight unique wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Each tour is carefully curated to provide an unforgettable safari experience.

Luxury Amboseli and Masai Mara Safari

East Africa Kenya Chyulu Hills Maasai Mara

From $ 8900 /USD

• Family Safari in Kenya

East Africa Kenya Laikipia, Lewa and Ol Pejeta Conservancy Maasai Mara

From $ 15300 /USD

Looking for Something Unique?

Kenya offers a variety of unique experiences that go beyond traditional safaris. Enjoy cultural interactions with the Maasai and Samburu people, hot air balloon rides over the Maasai Mara, and guided walking safaris that bring you closer to nature. Birdwatching, photographic safaris, and visits to local conservation projects provide deeper insights into Kenya’s rich natural heritage. These unique experiences ensure a diverse and enriching travel experience tailored to your interests.

Big Cat Safaris

Beach Holidays in Africa

Family and Kid-Friendly Safaris

Honeymoons in Africa

Kenya Safari Reviews

Hear from our guests who have experienced the wonders of a Kenya safari. Their stories of exceptional trip planning, life-changing adventures, and memorable experiences reflect the magic of our safaris and the unmatched beauty of Kenya. Visitors have marveled at the sight of the Great Migration, thrilled at close encounters with the Big Five, and enjoyed the serene beauty of Kenya’s landscapes. Cultural interactions with the Maasai and Samburu people, combined with the luxury and comfort of our lodges, have turned their safaris into unforgettable adventures. Come and experience the awe-inspiring wildlife, stunning scenery, and unique cultural heritage that our guests rave about.

Absolutely amazing advice, support and execution. Susan is a superstar!

Safari Review: 28 Day Southern Africa

Mick Stephens, Australia 13 Feb 2023

Brilliant tanzanian safari.

Family Safari in Tanzania Review

Jeens/Middleton family, Canada 05 Sep 2019

Very efficient service to get us on safari in a wonderful reserve..

Eastern Cape Safari Review

David, United Kingdom 16 Mar 2018

Professional and efficient..

Kruger Safari Review

Suzanne, Australia 03 Jan 2018

Breathtaking, exclusive, unforgettable.

Big Five Safari Review

Sheila, United States 19 Jun 2015

The sound of the lion roaring still rumbles through me. absolutely amazing....

Masodini Lodge Review

Shaina Herman, United States 25 Feb 2014

Ready to plan your tailor-made safari.

Andre Van Kets, Co-founder, Discover Africa

Free safari planning advice from destination experts

Our recommended activities in kenya.

Kenya is a land of unparalleled wildlife experiences and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a culture enthusiast, Kenya has something for everyone. Discover the beauty of its vast plains, the excitement of its wildlife safaris, and the depth of its cultural heritage to make your visit unforgettable. From witnessing the Great Migration to engaging in traditional Maasai village tours, Kenya offers a diverse array of activities that promise an unforgettable adventure.

• Camel Safaris
• Walking safaris – short walks, 2 – 3 hours

A fairly new activity on safari, camelback riding is an incredible experience.

Camelback safaris take place in northern Kenya’s Laikipia county. This mode of transport was (and still is) used by the Arab traders and has filtered down to northern Kenya’s Samburu and Turkana tribes. These gentle creatures have a soft nature as they quietly stroll through the arid landscape. Just like horseback riding, there is no disturbance to the wildlife on a camel safari. It’s a great way to get closer to the animals.

There are a few lodges and camps that offer camelback safaris and they are traditionally found close to the northern frontier in Kenya’s Samburu country. Camels have slowly moved further south and places as far as Cape Town also offer camel rides. Bear in mind that these won’t be safaris, just rides through a nature reserve or park. Arusha in Tanzania is another place offering travellers camel rides.

An area that’s starting to thrive with camel rides is the regions close to the Sahara Desert and will be available soon is Chad’s Zakouma National Park.

It’s easy to include a camelback ride or safari to an African itinerary – merely a question of picking the right accommodation options where they are offered. It’s a brilliant way of exploring the area in a traditionally north African way and a great new perspective on wildlife and landscape.

Hone your senses to the African bush, see the small things that you miss from the vehicle and get the chance to see the Big Five on foot.

Walking Safaris bring the bush alive and the thought that a lion, elephant or buffalo may be just on the other side of a bush is absolutely thrilling. Seeing the African savanna on foot gives it an entirely different beauty, with sights and smells that are easy to miss from an elevated safari vehicle.

There are many camps throughout Africa that offer short or half day walks beyond the camp or along a designated walking route. All the walks take place within a controlled environment and the routes are safe. Travellers are accompanied by trained guides, making it a secure and gentle way to walk in the wild.

Walking through the Masai Mara, Loita Hills, Tsavo, Amboseli, Lake Natron or Serengeti with a traditional Masai must be one of the best walks to do in Africa as he shows travellers his childhood village, the land beyond and shares local wisdom acquired by these tribes over centuries. Things like scorpion catching, bow hunting and herding cattle in these vast lands is just part of everyday life for the Masai and they invite safari goers to try their hand at these skills and have a peak into a life lived as nomads of the East Africa plains.

These walks should not be confused with multiday walking safaris where travellers walk for three or four full days, sleeping in bush camps. The day walks are ideal for bringing the kids along as it’s easy, educational and loads of fun.

There are many accommodation options, and consequently many walking safaris, within and far beyond the Masai Mara. Many camps in Africa offer bush walks as an activity, so it’s simply about booking the perfect accommodation that will take you on one of these memorable walks.

See Kenya in Your Comfort

Kenya caters to all travel styles, offering a range of accommodation and transport options to suit your preferences. From luxurious safari lodges and tented camps to budget-friendly guesthouses and self-catering chalets, Discover Africa ensures you’ll find the perfect place to stay. Travel at your own pace with self-drive safaris, expertly guided tours, or exclusive private charters, providing a comfortable and personalised experience throughout your journey. Enjoy the freedom to explore this iconic destination in a way that suits you best, whether it’s an intimate bush escape, a family adventure, or an exhilarating self-drive safari in Kenya.

• Affordable Safari Holiday in Kenya
• Budget Safari Holiday in Kenya
• Luxury Safari Kenya

Visitors who want to explore the major attractions without spending too much money should consider joining a set departure or group safari tour in Kenya , either with a safari company or an overland truck. You could also consider traveling out of season.

The set group safari departures in Kenya have different accommodation options, starting from mid-range and going up.

Eating out is generally quite inexpensive unless you actively seek out top-of-the-range restaurants aimed at upmarket tourists and ex-pats.

Wine is almost all imported and tends to be disproportionately expensive compared to the cheap and refreshing local beers.

Kenya is relatively easy to travel through on a tight- budget safari holiday tour , with two main provisos. The first is that high daily entrance fees at game parks, and the need for a 4×4, make most safari-oriented reserves difficult to explore cheaply, so you would need to focus on other attractions.

The second is that, wherever possible, you’ll need to use amenities geared towards the local economy (buses, guesthouses, and small restaurants catering mainly to Kenyans) rather than those charging inflated prices to tourists and ex-pats.

Attractions particularly well-suited to budget Kenya safari travelers include Lake Naivasha, Lake Baringo, most parts of the far west and central highlands, and the entire coast.

Kenya is a country of contrasts; everywhere you look, you’ll see different tribes, all dressed up in their finest. The culture here is incredible, but regions like the Masai Mara, when paired with the north (Samburu, Laikipia, or Meru), feel like you’ve been transported to another country.

Kenya’s coastline is equally beautiful, with white beaches and a turquoise sea, not to mention Lamu, one of the world’s most distinctive islands and a quiet refuge. Kenya is also home to the Great Rift Valley , whose lakes will provide a peaceful break from your luxury safari in Kenya.

Overcrowding isn’t a concern for visitors who intend to travel to Kenya’s most isolated and luxury safari properties . It’s typically the Kenyan people who make your luxury Kenya safari so memorable – they are fascinating, engaging, and have a great sense of fun.

Your luxury Kenya Safari may include everything you choose, from the wilderness to the beach, leisure to action. Travel to two distinct locations and feel as if you’ve visited two different nations.

Those seeking luxury in the bush can pick from a variety of premium tented camps located on community or private concessions abutting the Masai Mara and Amboseli, as well as on the Laikipia Plateau.

Holiday Styles and Options in Kenya

Kenya offers a variety of holiday styles to suit every traveller. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, options abound. Enjoy thrilling game drives, serene bush walks, vibrant cultural tours, or luxurious retreats. Customise your trip with activities like guided safaris, bird watching, local community visits, and wildlife photography. Discover Africa’s tailored packages ensure a memorable and personalised experience in Kenya.

• A Relaxed Safari Holiday in Kenya
• Adventure Holidays in Kenya
• An Active Holiday in Kenya
• Beach and Bush Safari Holidays in Kenya
• Big Five Safari Holidays in Kenya
• Birding Safari Holidays in Kenya
• Foodie Holidays in Kenya
• Kenya Honeymoon Safari
• Kenya Photographic Safari
• Malaria Free Holidays in Kenya
• Walking Safari Holidays in Kenya

Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline offers ideal conditions for relaxation. The most popular resorts are Diana, Malindi, and Watamu. These resorts also boast a fine array of restaurants specializing in seafood and other international cuisines.

The interior of Kenya is suited to a feet-up kind of holiday. The best way to keep a safari in Kenya relatively relaxed is to visit fewer places and stay at least three nights at each of them to truly immerse yourself in the environment and engage fully with the wildlife.

The tree hotels of Mount Kenya and the Aberdares offer possibly the most passive and relaxing safari experience in Africa, the idea being that you wait for the wildlife to come to the lodge rather than chasing it on game drives or walks.

Witness the annual Great Wildebeest Migration as it passes through the Masai Mara, the world’s eighth natural wonder . Observe lions, leopards, and cheetahs as they chase down unwitting victims before retiring to the tempting turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, learn the Masai and Samburu traditions, and dance around the campfire.

Kenya offers many options to adventurous travelers. For budget-conscious travelers, exploring the country on public transport can be an adventure in itself.

Rift Valley lakes such as Naivasha and Baringo offer plenty of opportunities for visiting wildlife-rich areas on foot or by boat, as do Kakamega and Saiwa Swamp National Park in the far west and parts of the coast.

For a more curated budget Kenya safari, join an overland truck safari to the major reserves or one of the occasional departures to remote Lake Turkana, set in the northern deserts bordering Ethiopia.

An excellent option for those with fewer budget restrictions is a camelback safari through the little-visited Mathews Range in the vast Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy.

Horseback safaris and walking safaris are conducted in several individual conservancies on the Laikipia Plateau. The premier hiking destination is Mount Kenya, whose glacial peak is the second-highest in Africa after Kilimanjaro.

A trip to Kenya that includes hiking Mount Kenya would be a true Kenya adventure holiday for any adrenaline junkie. Diving and snorkeling can also be done on most Kenya Adventure tours .

Safaris and beach holidays are the two most popular activities for an active holiday in Kenya. Since the safaris in Kenya generally involve long hours being driven through the bush in search of animals, and the beaches are all about chilling out and doing as little as possible, neither is inherently well suited to active travelers on safari.

That said, except during the long rains, Kenya’s climate makes it ideal for outdoor activities. There are many ways of keeping yourself physically active, whether on the beach or on safari.

Of Kenya’s leading beach resorts, the best suited to active travelers is Watamu. Here you can take long walks in the coastal forests of Arabuko-Sokoke, explore the mysterious ruined city of Gedi, and spend long hours snorkeling offshore in lovely Turtle Bay.

When it comes to active safaris in Kenya, the private concessions of Northern Laikipia are also well-suited to active travelers since guided walks take precedence over game drives.

Another excellent destination for active travelers is Mount Kenya , whose thrilling landscapes make it the country’s premier hiking destination.

Bring suitable footwear and a few pairs of thick socks if you plan on walking a lot. A walking stick can be useful in hilly areas or trails with loose rocks underfoot. Binoculars will significantly enhance bird and other wildlife sightings on the trail.

Kenya is ideally suited to a beach and bush holiday. Indeed, you could say that it is tailor-made for this combination of activities. Kenya Safari tour options are covered in detail elsewhere on this website.

Still, we would broadly recommend 7-10 days on safari, ideally split between two or three major reserves, broken up with overnight stays at Lake Nakuru and/or one of the Tree Hotels of the Aberdares and Mount Kenya. This could be followed with 4-7 days at a beach resort such as Diani, Malindi, or Watamu.

Kenya is one of the best places in Africa for ticking off the Big Five: lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino. An excellent short safari combination tour for Kenya for those hoping to see all these charismatic creatures (and much more besides) would be Masai Mara (for lion, leopard, buffalo, and elephant) and Lake Nakuru (for black and white rhino).

Other top safari destinations that host all or most Big Five safaris in Kenya include Tsavo East, Tsavo West, Amboseli, Laikipia Plateau, Samburu-Buffalo Springs-Shaba, Meru, and to a lesser extent Shimba Hills.

It’s important to note Kenya’s ongoing conservation efforts to protect some of its greater and lesser species – one of which is the elephant population.

The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is today the most successful orphan-elephant rescue and rehabilitation program in the world and one of the pioneering conservation organizations for wildlife and habitat protection in East Africa.

Founded in 1977 by Dr. Dame Daphne Sheldrick D.B.E, in honor of the memory of her late husband, famous naturalist and founding Warden of Tsavo East National Park, David Leslie William Sheldrick MBE, the DSWT claims a rich and deeply rooted family history in wildlife and conservation. The DSWT has remained true to its principles and ideals, remaining a sustainable and flexible organization.

Guided by experienced and dedicated trustees and assisted by an Advisory Committee of proactive naturalists with a lifetime of wildlife and environmental experience, the Trust takes effective action and achieves long-lasting results.

Kenya is one of only 15 countries globally where more than 1,000 bird species have been recorded, and it lies third on the African avian diversity list after DR Congo and Tanzania.

This list includes the world’s two largest birds (Common and Somali ostrich, now regarded as separate species) and its bulkiest flying creature (Kori bustard), along with a wealth of raptors and a dazzling array of colorful bee-eaters, turacos, parrots, rollers, and passerines.

Birding Safaris are rewarding everywhere in Kenya. For dedicated birdwatching on a safari in Kenya, a well-planned two-week itinerary is likely to result in a trip list of 350–400 species, a figure that compares favorably with anywhere in the world.

The open savannah of southern Kenyan reserves such as Amboseli and the Masai Mara provides an excellent introduction to East Africa’s more common birds, with Superb starling, Purple grenadier, Lilac-breasted roller, and African grey hornbill all conspicuous.

The Rift Valley lakes are also superb: Nakuru and Bogoria are rightly famed for their mind-boggling flamingo aggregations, but the less celebrated Naivasha and Baringo are arguably even better for general birding.

For regular bird-watching safari goers, a region of particular interest is the arid north, where Samburu-Buffalo Springs-Shaba hosts a high quotient of dry-country species whose range is otherwise restricted to less accessible parts of Ethiopia and Somalia.

For visitors with limited exposure to the rainforests of west-central Africa, Kakamega Forest and Saiwa Swamp protect dozens of forest species at the very eastern extreme of their range.

For coastal birds endemic or near-endemic to Kenya, Arabuko-Sokoke National Park near Watamu is home to Clarke’s weaver, Sokoke scops owl, Grey-crested helmet-shrike, Sokoke pipit, and Amani Sunbird. The central highlands also host several endemics, notably Sharpe’s longclaw, Aberdare cisticola, and Hinde’s babbler.

Kenya offers excellent birdwatching safaris throughout the year, but the prime season runs from October to March when Palearctic migrants boost resident populations. This also broadly coincides with Kenya’s rainy season, when several resident species shed their drab eclipse plumage in favor of bright breeding colors.

Kenya doesn’t really qualify as a dedicated foodie destination. Still, there are plenty of opportunities to eat well. Nairobi hosts a wide variety of restaurants representing a cosmopolitan selection of cuisines, as do Mombasa and the various coastal resorts (but to a lesser extent).

Seafood is particularly recommended on the coast, while Nairobi excels when it comes to meat dishes and Indian restaurants, the latter usually offering an excellent vegetarian selection. On a Kenya safari holiday, it’s customary to eat all meals at your lodge or camp. This is because most such places offer full-board packages, and there is generally no alternative within a reasonable driving distance.

Larger lodges typically serve expansive buffet meals, while smaller lodges and tented camps generally offer three- or four-course set menus. Standards vary from mediocre at more package-like places to exceptional at certain more exclusive Kenya lodges .

The local cuisine usually consists of a lightly-spiced meat-based stew eaten with rice, ugali (stiff maize porridge), or chapati, a flat Indian-style bread. Whole fried or grilled fish is often available in coastal towns and around the great lakes. The distinctive Swahili cuisine of the coast makes generous use of coconut milk and is far spicier than other Kenyan food.

Generally, Africa is a top choice for nature-loving couples. A Kenya honeymoon safari especially has long been a choice destination for couples wanting spectacular safari experiences .

Kenya is a country where falling in love all over again is as easy as spotting a wildebeest. The rustic surroundings and soft-sand beaches with their azure waters make Kenya a timeless destination for romantics.

Coupled with the excitement of seeing the Big Five, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro , the Great Wildebeest Migration , and some of the world’s most exclusive and romantic secluded private wildlife conservancies, it’s no wonder that a Kenya honeymoon safari is a popular choice.

A great Kenya honeymoon safari itinerary would be to start with a few days at one of the exclusive camps that stud the conservancies bordering the Masai Mara or Amboseli, then maybe head to a similar camp on the Laikipia Plateau.

This could be followed by a few days of relaxing at a ‘barefoot luxury’ style beach resort near Diana, Watamu, or Malindi.

Kenya is a highly photogenic country. The main point of interest for most people that want to go on a Kenya photography safari is the prodigious wildlife that inhabits the national parks and other reserves.

Landscapes are greenest in the wet season, and the sky is least hazy then too, but this can be a difficult time to travel as game drives and other activities are washed out by frequent storms.

For dedicated Kenya photography safari-goers, there are several advantages to staying in private concessions or reserves, such as those on the Laikipia Plateau and bordering the Masai Mara. These private reserves are relatively costly to visit.

Still, they tend to have better and more sympathetic guides, and the ability to drive off-road, combined with the lack of other tourist traffic, means you can stick longer with a good photographic subject, and usually get far closer to it, and line up better for amazing shots.

Wildlife photography requires faster and higher-magnification lenses than most other subjects. The ideal lens combination would be a zoom that goes up to 300 together with a fixed 400, with the fastest f-stop of 4, or better, 2.8.

Bring a beanbag upon which to rest your lens to minimize the risk of camera shake; to save weight, you can carry it empty to Kenya and fill it up with rice, beans, or similar after you arrive.

Colourful traditional ethnic groups such as the Maasai, Samburu, and Turkana make for great subjects, but it’s essential to ask permission before photographing them on your photography safari holiday in Kenya.

Many people will refuse, while others will expect to be paid. A good option for photographing traditionally-attired people is to arrange a paid visit to a traditional village bordering the Maasai Mara or Samburu-Buffalo Springs. The Swahili people of the coast are also sensitive about being photographed, particularly the women, whose Islamic culture perceives it to be immodest.

Malaria is prevalent in most parts of Kenya. This includes the entire coast and most safari destinations: Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo, Samburu-Buffalo Springs, Lake Nakuru, and Meru.

Exceptions are parts of the Laikipia Plateau (much of which sits at too high an altitude for the malaria parasite) and the tree hotels of the Aberdares and Mount Kenya .

The risk of catching malaria in highland Nairobi is minimal. However, there are occasional incidents thought to be attributed to infected mosquitoes that arrive there on a bus from a lower-lying destination.

A Kenya safari focussing solely on Nairobi, the tree hotels, and Laikipia would thus be borderline malaria-free, but a slight risk would still exist. It’s therefore advisable to take necessary precautions before traveling and check with your local healthcare provider what prophylactics are best suited for a Kenya safari holiday.

Kenya is especially well suited to walking safaris . Climbing Mount Kenya offers more than enough to keep you going for a week, but this suits more dedicated hikers than casual ramblers.

Other destinations that offer some great opportunities include Lake Naivasha (a good base for day hikes to Hell’s Gate and Mount Longonot), Kakamega Forest, Saiwa Swamp, and Watamu. However, the options are better suited to independent travelers with a DIY approach than to organized safari tours .

For tourists looking to see wildlife on foot and be immersed in the environment, there are some concessions that arrange walking (guided) safaris if you are feeling more adventurous.

This offers the unique experience of seeing wildlife in a different light – where the sounds, sights, and smells will play a more prominent role in your Kenya safari experience.

Who is Travelling to Kenya with you?

Planning your Kenya safari adventure? Tailor your journey with experiences designed for every type of traveller. Whether you’re exploring with a loved one, embarking on a family adventure, discovering solo, celebrating a honeymoon, or enjoying a trip with friends, Kenya offers unique and unforgettable experiences for all. Select your travel type to find the perfect itinerary and make the most of your safari holiday.

• Couple Holiday in Kenya
• Solo Travelling Through Kenya

Most parts of Kenya are suited to couples. The coast of Kenya is ideal for romantic getaways, while more active couples looking for quality time together might consider booking a private safari or renting a self-drive 4×4 for your Kenya safari.

Highlights on a Couple Holiday in Kenya

Kenya’s beaches are among the most romantic in the world, with all white sand, shady palms, and lovely sunrises.

As with solo travelers or families, a highlight for most couples on safari in Kenya will be the opportunity to spend a few days on this safari, watching the Big Five and other creatures in the iconic Masai Mara , Amboseli, and Lake Nakuru.

Try self-driving or traveling by public transport through the Rift Valley for something more offbeat.

Travel Tips on a Couple Holiday in Kenya

• Although most couples on holiday in Kenya are happy to spend plenty of time alone together, it can be fun to break things up with the odd night at a more sociable venue such as a backpacker hostel or intimate private lodge.

Kenya is a reasonably family-friendly safari destination, but it boasts few attractions that cater specifically to youngsters, and the threat of malaria might be a deterrent for families with young children. Most children will enjoy a few days on their family safari in Kenya but be warned that youngsters often become bored on long hot game drives.

For this reason, smaller and more contained safari destinations such as Lake Nakuru and Nairobi National Park might be preferable for families than the vast expanses of Tsavo, Masai Mara, and the like.

Highlights of a Family Safari in Kenya

The highlights of a family safari in Kenya are much the same as for solo travelers or couples in Kenya: the thrilling volume and variety of wildlife present in the Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Lake Nakuru.

Of the beach resorts, Diani is probably the most family-friendly since its large package hotels tend to have an excellent range of on-site activities and amenities suited to all age groups, and offer plenty of excursions.

Travel Tips for a Family Safari in Kenya

• It’s not advisable to enter malarial areas with children not yet old enough to safely take prophylactic drugs or be able to clearly communicate any malarial symptoms to their parents. Parents of younger children should check whether their hotel offers babysitting services.
• Some private game lodges place a lower-end age restriction on children, while others specifically cater to younger children and provide them with alternative activities when adults are on game drives. Check this when you make a booking.
• Self-drivers with children should avoid overambitious itineraries. Distances in Kenya are far longer than you might be used to at home, and roads tend to be rougher, so children might quickly become bored or carsick.

Most parts of Kenya are suited to solo travel. Independent travelers using public transport will find that locals are very friendly and keen to converse with single foreigners.

During a solo Kenya safari, small tented camps and private concessions’ reserves are probably better suited to single travelers than larger lodges in public sanctuaries since they tend to offer a more hands-on, personalized service.

Highlights on a Solo Safari in Kenya

Most solo travelers on a Kenya safari also want to visit the coast. The highlights are the same as for other travelers: the thrill of being in the bush and the range of wild animals to be seen in famous reserves such as Masai Mara , Amboseli, and Laikipia.

Of the coastal resorts, Malindi has the most inherently sociable and integrated atmosphere, making it perhaps better suited to friendly solo travelers than rustic Watamu or spread-out Diani. The Rift Valley lakes are a worthwhile destination for solo travelers interested in local cultures.

Travel Tips for Solo Safari in Kenya

Sociable solo travelers in Kenya might be keener to join group safari tours in Kenya or to stay at lodges that offer all-inclusive packages with group game drives and customarily encourage guests to mingle by dining together at one large table.

There are no risks specific to solo travel in Kenya. Still, single women, in particular, should apply the usual common-sense precautions such as not walking alone at night in cities, particularly Nairobi, and avoiding deserted beaches.

What You Need To Know

Planning a trip to Kenya involves considering several important factors to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. From understanding visa requirements and health precautions to knowing the best times to visit and local customs, having the right information will help you make the most of your journey. Discover Africa provides essential tips and insights to help you prepare for an unforgettable adventure in this iconic wildlife destination.

• Kenya vs South Africa
• Kenya vs Uganda
• Wildlife in Kenya
• Kenya Visa Requirements and Fees
• Getting Around in Kenya
• Changing Money in Kenya
• Is Kenya Safe?
• Kenya Food and Tipping
• Languages in Kenya
• Medical Requirements for Kenya
• Packing List for a Kenya Holiday
• What Vaccinations do I Need for Kenya?
• Medical Emergencies in Kenya
• Health Care in Kenya
• Medical Insurance in Kenya
• Lodges in Kenya: The Do’s and Don’ts
• Cultural Practices of Kenya
• When to Go to Kenya

Kenya is more of a dedicated wildlife destination than South Africa. A far more significant proportion of the country is given over to national parks and other wildlife reserves. These tend to have a wilder and more limitless feel than their fenced-in South African counterparts with their asphalt roads and village-like rest camps.

Kenya would thus be a better destination for people seeking a safari-dominated wilderness itinerary . That said, Kenya’s safari circuit is far less suited to budget-conscious travelers, or to DIY self-drivers, than South Africa’s Kruger National Park or Pilanesberg.

A safari in South Africa offers a far lower risk of contracting malaria, bilharzia, and other tropical diseases. This makes it a safer bet for families, first-time safari goers, and other health-conscious travelers. Indeed, South Africa is also the only country in Africa to boast several malaria-free safari destinations.

South Africa is a far more family-friendly safari destination compared to Kenya. Both countries boast superb coastlines, but South Africa’s beach resorts are notably well-developed for families and children. In contrast, Kenya’s ancient ports feature an intriguing cultural dimension shaped by the Swahili people and include fantastic ruins dating back to medieval times.

Kenya is a better destination than Uganda when it comes to quality Big Five sightings and plains wildlife in general. Its game reserves tend to be far more extensive than their counterparts in Uganda and offer a more varied selection of lodges and tented camps. Equally, a safari in Uganda offers several attractions not found in Kenya or, indeed, most other safari destinations.

Foremost among these is the opportunity to track mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and chimpanzees in Kibale National Park. Overall, Uganda offers far greater diversity when it comes to primate safaris, and it matches Kenya for general birdwatching safaris . However, it tends to be stronger on forest birds that are difficult to see elsewhere in eastern and southern Africa.

Uganda’s three main savannah reserves are also wonderfully scenic and offer the opportunity to explore thrilling tropical waterways by boat. There is nothing in landlocked Uganda to compare with the Indian Ocean beach resorts such as Diani and Watamu .

Kenya is also a more visibly diverse and fascinating country when it comes to traditional cultures, be it the pastoralist Maasai and Samburu or the Arab-influenced Swahili people of the coast.

Kenya’s geographic diversity means that it supports an extraordinary range of wildlife. The country’s premier national parks and reserves, including the Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo East and West, Samburu-Buffalo Springs, Meru, and Laikipia, are all home to most or all of the Big Five, i.e., lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and Black rhino.

We would rank the Masai Mara as one of the top five reserves in Africa for lion and cheetah sightings. It is also unusually reliable for leopards, along with other less glamorous carnivores such as spotted hyenas, jackals, and bat-eared foxes. Amboseli is one of the top places anywhere in Africa for watching elephant interactions at close quarters.

After a South African safari , a Kenya safari is the second-best choice to see both Black and White rhinos, with healthy and conspicuous populations of one or both to be found in Tsavo West, Meru, Lake Nakuru, and several of the reserves on the Laikipia Plateau .

Other wildlife tends to be more regional. The relatively moist southern savannah protected in Masai Mara and Amboseli is home to eland, Coke’s hartebeest, Topi, Grant’s and Thomson’s gazelle and impala, as well as Maasai giraffe, plains zebra, and warthog.

Wildebeest are resident in both reserves, but the Masai Mara is renowned for the migration of hundreds of thousands of these doleful-looking antelope from neighboring Tanzania between August and October.

The more arid northern reserves, most notably Samburu-Buffalo Springs, support a quite different set of grazers, for instance, Beisa oryx, Lesser kudu, Guenther’s dik-dik, and the unique Long-necked gerenuk.

Here you will also see the critically endangered Grevy’s zebra, the world’s largest wild equid and far more narrowly striped than the more widespread plains zebra, which occurs alongside it in Samburu-Buffalo Springs. Another creature unique to the north is the reticulated giraffe, which has a more geometric and striking coat pattern than the Masai Giraffe.

Other major reserves such as Laikipia, Meru, and Tsavo East and West tend to support an intermediate selection of grazers. Very different again are the montane forests of the Aberdares and Central Highlands, coastal forests around Diani and Watamu, and tropical lowland forests in western sites such as Kakamega.

These tend to support a wide range of monkeys, most notably the striking black-and-white Colobus, small forest antelope known as duikers, and oddities like the Golden-rumped elephant shrew (coast only), mountain bongo (Aberdares only), and Giant forest hog.

Kenya is one of the world’s finest bird-watching destinations . A national checklist of more than 1,000 species places it among the world’s top 15 countries in terms of avian diversity. But even this figure doesn’t convey the variety of colorful and striking birds on display countrywide.

There are several places, most notably perhaps Lake Naivasha or Baringo, where a moderately skilled birder could tick off 100 species in a day. And for dedicated birdwatchers, a well-planned two-week itinerary taking in key ornithological sites such as Kakamega Forest, Samburu-Buffalo Springs, Mount Kenya, the Rift Valley Lakes, and the coastal forests around Watamu should result in a trip list of at least 350 species, quite possibly more.

Kenya also hosts diverse marine wildlife. A year-round attraction is the colorful reef fish that proliferate diving and snorkeling sites in the reefs offshore of Watamu, Malindi, Mombasa, and Diani. Other, more seasonal, marine wildlife includes dolphins, whale sharks, marine turtles, and manta rays.

All visitors must present a passport upon arrival at their port of entry. This must be valid until at least 6 months after the end of their intended stay, and must have at least two blank pages to accommodate entry and exit stamps.

Technically, visitors should also have a return or onward ticket, and be able to demonstrate access to sufficient funds to cover day-to-day expenses for the duration of their stay, but these requirements are seldom enforced.

Most visitors require a visa to enter Kenya. This includes nationals of practically all European, Asian, Middle Eastern, and North or South American countries, as well as Australia and New Zealand. For single-entry tourist visits of to 90 days, eVisas can be bought online, provided this is done at least two days prior to departure, and it is also usually possible to get a visa on arrival.

Multiple-entry and non-tourist visas must be applied for through a Kenyan embassy or high commission abroad.

Visas for stays of up to 90 days are not required by passport-holders of certain African and Caribbean countries, among them South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Ghana, Malawi and Zimbabwe.

An East Africa Tourist Visa allows multiple-entry visits to Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda, but not to Tanzania or Burundi.

• A good network of scheduled and charter flights connects Nairobi to other major cities in Kenya, for instance, Mombasa, Malindi, and Kisumu. Light aircraft flights connect all the main game reserves to Nairobi and to each other. Note that most (but not all) domestic flights to/from Nairobi depart and arrive not from Jomo Kenyatta Airport, but from the smaller Wilson Airport (WIL), so check your booking.
• Most people explore the country on an organized group or bespoke safari or tour, which can be arranged through innumerable international and local operators.
• Most trunk roads are surfaced and well maintained, so self-drive is an option, provided you have a valid license. Be aware that driving tends to be reckless by Western standards. Driving is on the left side of the road, as in the UK, which may require some adjustment for drivers accustomed to driving on the right.
• National parks and other safari destinations are not generally accessible on public transport, but it is easy enough to travel between towns by bus or local Matatu mini busses. Be warned that these are often poorly maintained, overcrowded and recklessly driven, and fatal accidents are commonplace. A notable exception is the historic train service that connects Nairobi to Mombasa, a trip that qualifies as an attraction in its own right.

The Kenyan shilling (KSh) trades against most international currencies at a favourable rate. There’s no need to bring large amounts of hard currency cash or to buy shillings in advance.

Major international credit/debit cards (for instance Master and Visa) can be used to draw local currency at 24-hour ATMs in most cities and beach resorts, but not in national parks and other safari destinations).

Many vendors do not accept cards, however, so it’s a good idea to carry a few hundred dollars’ worth of hard currency cash as a fall back.

Nairobi has a longstanding reputation as a bit of a crime hotspot, one that is largely justified but unlikely to affect those who stay at a suburban hotel since crime targeted at tourists is mainly associated with the city center.

The triangle of streets between Moi Avenue and River Road should be avoided at all times unless you have a trusted local escort, and it’s best to use a taxi if you leave your hotel after dark.

Crime is also a problem on some parts of the coast but far less so in small upcountry towns, game reserves, and other rural areas. However, the majority of visitors to Kenya have hassle-free holidays, and so should you if you follow the commonsense dos and don’ts below:

• Carry a scan or electronic version of all important travel documents in case they are lost or stolen. You might also want to email all such backups to a webmail address you can access anywhere on the road.
• Padlocking your luggage might not prevent a determined thief from slashing it open, but it’s a solid deterrent to casual light fingers.
• Never leave valuables (cash, mobile phones, electronic devices, etc.) lying around in your hotel room; where possible, stow your passport and other important documents, as well as spare cash and cards, in a hotel safe.
• Leave expensive jewelry at home.
• Avoid exposing cameras, laptops or large amounts of cash in urban areas.
• Avoid walking around towns after dark. If you must, do so as part of a group and stick to busy and well-lit streets.

Tip in local currency where possible; it may be difficult for locals to exchange small amounts of hard cash into Kenya shillings. Tipping is not standard at eateries or bars catering mainly to a local clientele, but that doesn’t mean a little something won’t be appreciated by the recipient.

Tourist-oriented restaurants operate similarly to those in Europe or North America. A 10-15% tip to the waiter is standard, depending on the quality of service.

At hotels, it’s usually easier to sign drinks and meals to the room than to pay cash, but you could still leave a tip for an individual waiter or bartender or add one to the bill before you sign it. Hotel porters usually expect a tip equivalent to around US$1 per luggage item.

On organized tours in Kenya , it’s customary to tip the guide and/or driver and/or cook at the end, usually as a group rather than individually.

Upmarket lodges and camps in Kenya that operate on a full-board basis generally have a tip box at reception. Tips will usually be distributed between all the staff, a system that seems fairest to backroom workers in a country where hotel staff is very poorly paid.

In game lodges that offer guided game drives, any guides, drivers, and trackers should be tipped. Many such lodges have guidelines in the rooms; failing that, ask management for a directive.

More than 60 different languages are indigenous to Kenya. The official languages are English, which is widely spoken to a high standard in the tourist industry, and KiSwahili. This East African lingua franca originates from the coast and spread inland along trade routes in the early 19th century.

Other major languages include Kikuyu, Luo, Akamba, and Maa. Most languages spoken locally belong to two broad languages: Niger-Congo and Nilo-Saharan, spoken by the country’s Bantu and Nilotic populations, respectively. The Cushitic and Arab ethnic minorities speak languages belonging to the separate Afroasiatic family, with the Hindustani and British residents speaking languages from the Indo-European family.

Kenya’s various ethnic groups speak their mother tongues within their communities. The two official languages are used with varying degrees of fluency for communication with other populations. English is widely spoken in commerce, schooling, and government. Peri-urban and rural dwellers are less multilingual, with many in rural areas speaking only their native languages.

Kenya is a culturally rich country with over 60 languages spoken. The official languages are English and Kiswahili, used widely in commerce, education, and government. Learn to say hello, goodbye and even a few common phrases with us.

The national language and lingua franca of East Africa.

• Greeting: “Hujambo” (hoo-JAHM-boh) – Hello
• Goodbye: “Kwaheri” (kwah-HEH-ree) – Goodbye
• Common Phrases:
• “Asante” (ah-SAHN-teh) – Thank you
• “Tafadhali” (tah-fah-DHA-lee) – Please
• “Samahani” (sah-mah-HAH-nee) – Excuse me/Sorry
• “Jina lako nani?” (JEE-nah LAH-koh NAH-nee) – What is your name?
• “Habari gani?” (hah-BAH-ree GAH-nee) – How are you?
• “Sawa sawa” (Sah-wa Sah-wa) – Okay or All good!

Spoken by the Kikuyu people, the largest ethnic group in Kenya.

• Greeting: “Wi mwega” (wee m-WEH-gah) – Hello
• Goodbye: “Naki ngwendete” (nah-KEE ng-wen-DEH-teh) – Goodbye
• “Niwega” (nee-WEH-gah) – Thank you
• “Ndiaga” (n-DEE-ah-gah) – Please
• “Wina wira?” (WEE-nah WEE-rah) – How are you?
• “Thenge itagwo?” (THEN-geh ee-TAH-gwoh) – What is your name?
• “Nake?” (NAH-keh) – Excuse me

Spoken by the Luo people, mainly around Lake Victoria.

• Greeting: “Nya’tho” (nyah-THOH) – Hello
• Goodbye: “Odhi maber” (OH-dhee mah-BER) – Go well
• “Erokamano” (eh-roh-kah-MAH-noh) – Thank you
• “Kwayoni” (kwah-YOH-nee) – Please
• “Ang’o?” (AHNG-oh) – What?
• “Nyingi ng’a?” (NYING-ghee ng-AH) – What is your name?
• “Ber ahinya” (BER ah-HEE-n-yah) – Very good

Spoken by the Kamba people, primarily in the eastern region.

• Greeting: “Wìkàla” (WEE-kah-lah) – Hello
• Goodbye: “Koma na kwìkàla” (KOH-mah nah KWEE-kah-lah) – Goodbye
• “Nìngìyíe” (nee-NGEE-yee-eh) – Please
• “Twààsìsìa” (TWAAH-see-see-ah) – Thank you
• “Nìkwata” (nee-KWAH-tah) – Hold on
• “Àtũ nĩkĩ?” (ah-TOO nee-KEE) – How are you?
• “Nĩkũĩta” (nee-KWEE-tah) – Excuse me

Maa (Maasai):

Spoken by the Maasai people, renowned for their distinct culture.

• Greeting: “Supa” (SOO-pah) – Hello
• Goodbye: “Orkuma” (or-KOO-mah) – Goodbye
• “Ashe oleng” (ah-SHEH oh-LENG) – Thank you
• “Kashana” (kah-SHAH-nah) – Please
• “Baku” (BAH-koo) – Sorry
• “Sidai?” (SEE-dah-ee) – How are you?
• “Ning’ai” (ning-AH-ee) – What is your name?

Widely used in urban areas and the official business language.

• Greeting: “Hello” (heh-LOH) – Hello
• Goodbye: “Goodbye” (good-BYE) – Goodbye
• “Thank you” (THANGK yoo) – Thank you
• “Please” (pleez) – Please
• “How are you?” (how ar yoo) – How are you?
• “Excuse me” (ehks-KYOOZ mee) – Excuse me
• “What’s your name?” (wots yor naym) – What is your name?

Embracing the local languages can significantly enhance your Kenya safari experience. Learning and using phrases like “Hujambo” and “Asante” not only enriches your interactions but also shows respect for the culture.

As you traverse the stunning landscapes, from the Maasai Mara to the shores of Lake Victoria, surprising your guide with a few local words can create memorable connections and deeper cultural insights.

Malaria is the biggest single medical threat to visitors to Kenya. It is present in most parts of the country throughout the year, though the risk of transmission is generally far higher at low altitudes and during the rainy season. There is no vaccine, but several different oral prophylactics are available, and it is advisable to visit a travel clinic or other suitably qualified medical professional for up-to-date advice about the option best suited to your requirements. No prophylactic is 100% effective, so take all reasonable precautions against being bitten by the nocturnal Anopheles mosquitoes that transmits the disease.

These include donning a long-sleeved shirt, trousers and socks in the evening, and applying a DEET-based insect repellent clothes to any exposed flesh. Always sleep under a net, or failing that in and air-conditioned room, under a fan, or with a mosquito coil burning. Malaria normally manifests within two weeks of being bitten, but it can take months, so if you display possible symptoms after you get home, get to a doctor immediately, and ask to be tested. Travellers with young children or who prefer not to take medication might consider visiting a malaria-free safari destinations elsewhere in Africa in preference to Kenya.

Anti-malarial drugs are as good as essential and advice should be sought at least a few weeks in advance to be sure you use suitable medication. At the same time, check which (if any) vaccinations require updating. All over-the-counter medications are available at pharmacies in the larger cities, but not in game reserves or more isolated beach destinations, so best to buy any prescription drugs or others that you use regularly before you travel, along with essentials such as sunblock and insect repellent. People who wear contact lenses often find that their eyes are more irritable in the dry heat typical of many safari destinations, so it is a good idea to bring glasses as a backup.

A yellow fever vaccination and certificate is not mandatory for those entering Kenya from Europe or North America. You may be asked for one if you enter arrive from elsewhere in the yellow fever belt of Africa or South America.

It’s important to be up-to-date on tetanus, polio and diphtheria, and you might consider immunisation against hepatitis A and B, diphtheria, rabies, typhoid, cholera and tuberculosis.

A public healthcare system exists, but it’s underfunded and rudimentary by international standards. Private medical facilities compare favorably to most parts of Africa other than South Africa but are not always to the standard you’d expect in Europe or North America.

On the plus side, medical consultations are generally very cheap, and local doctors are highly experienced in recognizing symptoms of malaria (the most common threat to travelers) and prescribing appropriate medication.

A public healthcare system exists but it is underfunded and rudimentary by international standards. Private medical facilities compare favourable to most parts of Africa other than South Africa but are not always to the standard you’d expect in Europe or North America. On the plus side, medical consultations are generally very cheap, and local doctors are highly experienced when it comes to recognising symptoms of malaria (the most common threat to travellers) and prescribing appropriate medication.

It is recommended that you take comprehensive medical travel insurance, inclusive of air evacuation from remote areas. Be aware that some insurance policies may not cover paragliding or scuba diving other activities deemed to be hazardous, and it might also be null and void in areas subject to travel warnings by the British FCO or US state department.

• Never walk unaccompanied after dark in the bush or an unfenced camp or lodge.
• Don’t feed the wildlife – not only does it encourage a dependency on handouts to survive, but it may also foster problem animals.
• Don’t leave cash or other valuables lying around in the room.
• Do cover up in the evenings, spray exposed skin with repellent, and sleep under a net or fan to discourage mosquitos and other biting insects.
• Don’t freak out if you find lizards in your room or frogs in the basin – they are not vermin but rather harmless contributors towards insect control.
• Don’t make any unnecessary noise when wild animals are in the vicinity, or you might scare them off.
• Do take the opportunity to go on a guided bush walk if offered – it will be a wonderful opportunity to focus on plants, insects, birds and other creatures less glamorous than the Big Five.
• Do carry sunblock and a hat on all game drives.
• Do assume that any large animal that enters camp is wild – respect its space and give it a wide berth rather than walking up to it to be photographed with it and chasing it away or provoking attack.

Although the official languages are Swahili and English, Kenya is a multilingual country. There are 62 languages spoken throughout, which mainly consist of tribal African languages and a minority of Middle-Eastern and Asian languages spoken by descendants of foreign settlers (i.e., Arabic, Hindi, etc.).

The African languages come from three different language families – Bantu languages (spoken in the center and southeast), Nilotic languages (in the west), and Cushitic languages (in the northeast).

Kenya is not a homogeneous country ethnicity-wise. The make-up of Kenyans is primarily that of 13 ethnic groups with an additional 27 smaller groups. Most Kenyans belong to ‘Bantu’ tribes such as the Kikuyu, Luhya, and Kamba.

There are also the ‘Nilotic’ tribes such as the Luo, Kalenjin, Maasai, and Turkana. The ‘Hamitic’ people include the Turkana, Rendille, and Samburu. Around 13% of the population are of non-African descent, i.e., Indian, Arab and European.

Kenyans are group-orientated rather than individualistic. “Harambee” (coming from the Bantu word meaning “to pull together”) defines the people’s approach to others in life. The concept is essentially about mutual assistance, mutual effort, mutual responsibility, and community self-reliance.

Choosing the best time to visit Kenya can significantly enhance your safari and beach experiences. Here’s a detailed guide to help you decide when to go based on weather patterns, wildlife viewing, and overall conditions:

Dry Season ( June to October )

Overview: The dry season is the best time to visit Kenya for safaris and beach holidays. The weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for wildlife viewing and exploring the beautiful beaches along the Kenyan coast. 

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).
• Rainfall: This period sees very little rain, resulting in clear skies and excellent wildlife viewing conditions. 

Activities:

• Safaris: Ideal for game drives in Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo National Parks.
• Wildlife Viewing: Animals congregate around water sources, making it easier to spot the Big Five.
• Beach Holidays: Perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports in Diani and Malindi. 
• Cool, dry weather perfect for safaris.
• High wildlife concentrations around water sources.
• Clear skies and warm beaches. 
• Higher visitor numbers due to peak tourist season.
• Prices for accommodation and tours may be higher. 

Recommended Tours: Explore our Dry Season Kenya Safari Package for the best wildlife and beach experiences.

Masai Mara Kenya

Deep within Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve, Rekero offers a spectacular location from which to...

Governors' Camp

Governors’ Camp is Africa’s first permanent tented camp, remaining in its original site since 1972....

Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort

Lake Naivasha National Park Nakuru Kenya

Naivasha is a Masai name given to the area, denoting the characteristics of the lake....

Short Rainy Season ( November to December )

Overview: The short rainy season features brief showers that quickly give way to sunny skies. This period is perfect for those looking to enjoy Kenya with fewer tourists and greener landscapes. 

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F), with warm, humid conditions.
• Rainfall: Short, sporadic showers with plenty of sunshine in between. 
• Bird Watching: Migratory birds arrive, making it a great time for bird enthusiasts.
• Quieter Safaris: Enjoy less crowded parks and attractions.
• Cultural Tours: Explore local villages and experience Kenyan culture. 
• Lush, green landscapes.
• Fewer tourists and lower prices.
• Excellent time for bird watching. 
• Occasional rain showers may interrupt outdoor activities.
• Higher humidity. 

Recommended Tours: Check out our Short Rainy Season Kenya Package for a quieter, more intimate safari experience. 

Long Rainy Season ( March to May )

Overview: The long rainy season is characterized by heavy and consistent rainfall. This period is best for budget travelers and those who enjoy lush, green landscapes. 

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F), with warm, humid conditions.
• Rainfall: Expect heavy and frequent showers, often lasting for several hours. 
• Lush Scenery: The parks’ vegetation flourishes, making them incredibly green and beautiful.
• Low Tourist Numbers: Enjoy a more peaceful and intimate experience with fewer visitors.
• Affordable Rates: Lower prices on accommodation and tours.
• Vibrant, lush landscapes.
• Fewer tourists, offering a more exclusive experience.
• Lower prices for accommodation and activities. 
• Heavy rainfall may disrupt outdoor plans.
• Higher humidity and increased mosquito activity. 

Recommended Tours: Discover our Long Rainy Season Kenya Package for a budget-friendly, lush safari experience.

Hot Season ( January to March )

Overview: The hot season is the warmest time of the year in Kenya, with high temperatures and occasional short showers. This period is perfect for beach lovers and watersport enthusiasts. 

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 28°C to 35°C (82°F to 95°F), with warm nights.
• Rainfall: Mostly dry with occasional short showers. 
• Warm Waters: Ideal for swimming, diving, and snorkeling along the Kenyan coast.
• Marine Excursions: Excellent time for dolphin watching and exploring coral reefs.
• Festivals: The Lamu Cultural Festival in February is a vibrant cultural event. 
• Perfect for beach activities and water sports.
• Warm, sunny days with occasional rain for a refreshing break.
• Vibrant cultural festivals. 
• High temperatures and humidity can be intense.
• Higher prices and more tourists compared to the long rainy season. 

Recommended Tours: Experience our Hot Season Kenya Package for a sun-soaked adventure.

Key Considerations for Each Month:

June to October (Dry Season):

• June : The start of the dry season; perfect for safaris and beach holidays.
• July to September : Peak safari season with excellent wildlife viewing.
• October : End of the dry season; great for beach activities and wildlife spotting.

November to May (Wet Season):

• November : Short rains begin; greener landscapes and fewer tourists.
• December to February : Warm temperatures with occasional rains; ideal for birdwatching and water sports.
• March to May : Long rains; lush landscapes and fewer tourists.

Each season in Kenya offers unique experiences and opportunities for visitors. Whether you’re looking to witness the Great Migration, relax on stunning beaches, or explore vibrant cultural festivals, there’s a perfect time for every type of adventure in Kenya.

We have 5 rating for 447 reviews

We have 4.7 rating for 35 reviews

We have 4.9 rating for 73 reviews

Join our newsletter

Sign up to receive exclusive offers, safari inspiration, and expert tips straight to your inbox.

By proceeding you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions .

POPULAR DESTINATIONS

Popular tours.

• Luxury Explorers Safari in Botswana
• Romantic Cape Town & Luxury Safari
• Masai Mara and Serengeti Combo
• Wildlife and Gorillas of Rwanda
• Luxury Honeymoon in Mauritius

POPULAR ACCOMMODATIONS

• Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge
• Chobe Game Lodge
• Khwai Lediba
• Camp Okavango
• Khwai Leadwood

QUICK LINKS

• Safari Cost Estimator Tool
• [email protected]

Discover Africa

Home of the original East African safari, Kenya beckons with iconic wildlife and fascinating cultures as well as one of nature’s greatest wild spectacles – the Great Migration.

WILD & UNTAMED SAFARIS

Explore a Kenya safari

Unrivalled wildlife experiences.

Fulfil your wildest safari fantasy on an unrivalled Kenyan safari where Africa’s most iconic wildlife and the continents’ warm people come together to make your journey unforgettable.

Governors' Camp Collection

Discover the spectacularly beautiful Governors’ Camp Collection in Kenya, part of our greater Wilderness group of brands. Governors' camps are ideally placed in three prime wildlife areas of the country: the legendary Masai Mara, the Great Rift Valley, and the expansive Laikipia region.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Kenya at a glance

Kenya’s Great Rift Valley formed 35 million years ago, creating a multitude of exceptionally diverse habitats, resulting in one of the greatest safari destinations on earth. Explore this celebrated African spectacle on a luxury safari - from the Masai Mara, with its fascinating plains, streams and mountain ridges, to the lush flamingo-haven of Lake Nakuru, and the sweeping Laikipia Plateau..

Kenya key facts

Kenya is one of Africa’s top safari destinations, with over fifty national parks and reserves, including the iconic Masai Mara. Home to the spectacular annual wildebeest migration and Africa’s second highest peak, Mount Kenya, this is a landscape of unrivalled natural beauty and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

POPULATION SIZE

Kenyan shilling (KES)

GEOGRAPHICAL SIZE

582,646 km²

BEST TIME TO GO

All year round

Swahili & English

Open plains

Classic savannah landscape, with grassy plains.

Riverine forests

Lush green forest on the banks of the Mara River.

Saline lakes

Lake Nakuru, surrounded by wooded grassland.

Central Kenya is mountainous.

Blue wildebeest

Seen in huge numbers in Kenya’s Masai Mara.

Grevy's zebra

The largest of the zebras and a welcome sighting.

Masai giraffe

This species is native to East Africa.

Kenya is a stronghold for Africa’s cheetahs.

Kenya weather

Kenya's diverse geography means that temperature, rainfall and humidity vary widely. The Masai Mara enjoys comfortable daytime temperatures and cool evenings, with two rainy seasons per year: from March to June (the ‘long rains’), and the ‘short rains’ in November and December. The temperate Rift Valley has a similarly mild climate.

March to June & November

GREEN SEASON

July to October

TRANSITION SEASON

January to February

Where is Kenya located?

Kenya is in East Africa.

What language is spoken in Kenya?

Swahili and English

What to wear on safari in Kenya?

Wear warm clothing in the cooler months, as it can be cold on early morning and evening game drives and pack light clothing for summer. Bright colours and white are not recommended whilst on safari, and camouflage clothing is generally not recommended for travel in Africa.

Are Kenya safaris safe?

Safaris in Kenya are generally safe. The tourism industry is well-established and visitors are well looked after.

When to go on safari in Kenya?

Kenya is wonderful all-year round, with good weather and game-viewing in all seasons. The Great Migration occurs between June and October.

Do I need a visa to travel to Kenya?

Yes, travellers from most countries need a visa to travel to Kenya. A single entry e-visa can be obtained online before travelling.

Vaccinations

What is the covid protocol for travelling to kenya.

We address all concerns surrounding COVID in line with the latest recommendations from the World Health Organization and other leading authorities. Please speak to your Travel Designer for the latest travel advisory updates, to ensure that you are prepared for all COVID travel requirements in Kenya before your departure.

Do I need a yellow fever vaccination to visit Kenya?

Kenya is part of Africa's yellow fever endemic zone, and while it’s not compulsory to be vaccinated, please consult with your health care practitioner regarding whether a yellow fever vaccine is advised.

Is there Malaria in Kenya?

Yes, malaria is present in the coastal region and areas below 1 800 metres (5 900 feet) above sea level. Check with your health care provider in advance, as some courses of medication may need to be started before you travel to Kenya.

Let’s plan your next journey

When we say we’re there every step of the way, we mean it, literally. From planning the perfect circuit, to private inter-camp transfers on Wilderness Air, and easing you through Customs. We’re with you on the ground, at your side, 24-7, from start to finish. Ready to take the road less travelled? Contact our Travel Designers to plan an unforgettable journey.

Need some inspiration?

Be inspired by the latest news from Wilderness. Subscribe to our newsletter.

• Destinations

The Greatest Wildlife Show on Earth Awaits

Why Visit Kenya?

When you think of Africa, you probably have an image of Kenya in your mind. The wide-open plains and plethora of wild animals combine to create the perfect African safari. Keen for your own "Out of Africa" adventure?

Head to the Maasai Mara or any one of Kenya's wildlife-rich game reserves to see the Big 5 . However, a safari in Kenya is at its best when it coincides with Mother Nature's greatest show – the Great Migration . One of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa, the Great Migration is when millions of wildebeest followed by zebra and gazelle migrate across the plains in search of greener pastures.

But Kenya has more than just wildlife. It's a country of contrasts, from the snow-covered peaks of Mount Kenya to the sun-kissed beaches of the Indian Ocean. The scenery embraces mountains, forests, deserts and lakes such as Lake Victoria. At Rhino Africa, we are Kenyan safari experts and can plan a safari experience to suit your exacting requirements, budget, and interests.

In Africa, It's Not About What You Know, But Who You Know.

We've partnered with the best to ensure you get front row seats at the best possible price., frequently asked questions.

We've taken the liberty to answer everything you may need to know about visiting Kenya

Kenya, like the rest of Africa, is a year-round destination. But some months are better suited for game viewing and the famous Great Migration while others are ideal for scenery, birdlife and beach-and-bush combinations. It all comes down to your own interests and preferences. Let’s have a look at the seasonal highlights. August – October

This is the best time to visit Kenya for wildlife safaris and to experience the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Maasai Mara. The migration is triggered by rainfall patterns and new grass growth. These dry, wintry months are also best for general game viewing. So with or without witnessing the Great Migration, your East African safari experience will be amazing! December – March

The best time to visit Kenya for beaches, scenery, birdlife and wildlife viewing outside of peak season is from December to March. During these months, game viewing is still excellent and fewer travellers means great deals to be found. Days are hot, mostly clear and not too humid along Kenya’s tropical coastline. April – May

So when is it not the best time to visit Kenya? The so-called long rains drench Kenya in April and May with a wet monsoon that renders the coastline a muggy haze and the hinterland a boggy though seriously picturesque quagmire. The perfect time to visit Kenya if you want the place to yourself. Contact our Travel Experts before deciding when to travel to Kenya.

East Africa is famous for its wildlife-rich plains, classic African landscapes and the Great Wildebeest Migration, which must top every best-of Kenya list:

- Experience the Great Migration, as millions of wildebeest, zebra, topi, Thomson's gazelles and other plains game drift back and forth with seasonal water and food sources.

- The “Samburu Special 5” consisting of unique species found nowhere else: Grevy's zebra, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, beisa oryx and reticulated giraffe.

- Massive unfenced national parks, where large herds of animals move freely along their ancient migration paths.

- The successful cohabitation of people and wildlife in conservancies surrounding national parks.

- The people of Kenya like the colourful and striking Maasai and Samburu with their traditional African lifestyles.

In addition to incredible wildlife, there are many fascinating places to visit in Kenya including World Heritage Sites such as Lamu Old Town on Lamu Island, 13th century ruins of Arab port cities, Mount Kenya and the magnificent Swahili coastline.

Best of both worlds bush-and-beach combinations with easy access to the coastline and tropical islands like Lamu, Zanzibar Archipelago, and Seychelles.

Kenya safari holidays are family-friendly thanks to closed vehicles for example. Many lodges offer triple rooms, family units and children-only safari activities.

Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, is one of East Africa’s largest commercial hubs with international arrivals from many parts of the world.

Stay a couple of nights soaking up Nairobi’s city culture or just a single night to enjoy a proper bed after the long flight over. You also have the choice, depending on the time your international flight arrives, to skip out on the city and head straight to what you came for – a classic East Africa safari.

While carriers seem to chop and change their routes to Africa on a whim, you can currently get to Kenya from these great cities:

- Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways

- Amsterdam with KLM or Kenya Airways

- Bangkok with Kenya Airways

- Doha with Qatar Airways

- Dubai with Emirates or Kenya Airways

- Frankfurt with Lufthansa

- Istanbul with Turkish Airways

- London with British Airways or Kenya Airways

- Mumbai with Kenya Airways

- New York with Kenya Airways

- Paris with Air France or Kenya Airways

- Zurich with Swiss Air

Having arrived in Nairobi after your long-haul flight, you can enjoy your Kenya wildlife safari by road, by air or a combination of both. Time, cost and convenience will influence your decision.

Flying around Kenya

Domestic air travel is by far the most comfortable, convenient and time-efficient mode of transport on your Kenya safari holidays or your classic bush and beach adventure. Aircrafts are usually of the smaller Cessna type and they’re served by Nairobi’s domestic airport 90 minutes’ drive from the international airport (an important consideration if you want to connect on the same day). A fly-in safari is obviously a spectacular way to see Kenya’s attractions, removes a large chunk of travelling time and side-steps the discomforts of a long, bumpy drive. 

The cost for a Kenya safari ranges from $200 to $3,000 per person per day. Chat to one of our Travel Experts to ensure the best Kenya safari experience according to your time and budget. Here are a few examples of what influences your final Kenya safari cost:

- Time of year with great differences between low and high season prices.

- Your choice of safari lodges and camps.

- Duration of your stay, with great specials for extended bookings

- Where you go, with the cost going up proportionally to the remoteness of your destination and your choice of transportation – e.g. fly-in vs. overland safari vehicle.

- Your choice of safari activities ranging from inclusive wildlife activities to exclusive hot air balloon rides.

Yes. We recommend anti-malarial medication no matter what time of year you plan to visit Kenya. Consult your health practitioner for advice on the right choice of prophylaxis for your body well in advance of your departure date. And if you live in a yellow fever region or plan to travel through a region where it is endemic during your stay, you will need a vaccination and certificate.

Kenya has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to 6 million BC, with the earliest known Orrorin tugenensis (one of the oldest early humans) who lived in the Tugen Hills. Today this area of Kenya is protected and preserved, and you can explore humans’ ancient history at the National Museum of Kenya in Nairobi. 

As the years went by, further tool-making Homo erectus and Homo sapiens were recorded, which highlights the deep roots this land has cultivated.

By 1498, the Portuguese, along with Vasco da Gama, arrived in Kenya and took rule over most of the ports including Mombasa. Two hundred years later, Arab influence forced the withdrawal of the Portuguese. Around the 1840s, European missionaries arrived, awestruck at their first sighting of Mounts Kenya and Kilimanjaro (in Tanzania).

By the 1850s, lakes Tanganyika and Victoria were discovered by Burton and Speke, which you can read about their expeditions in the historical novel by William Harrison. After increasing British influence in Kenya, the British Government acquired Kenya and Uganda to become British East Africa by 1895. 

Over the following six years, Nairobi was forcibly transformed from a Maasai farming village into the railway headquarters between Mombasa and Uganda, which reached Kisumu on the edge of Lake Victoria in 1901 to open up trading between these flourishing lands. By 1920, Kenya was officially declared a British colony.

Following many attempts to further colonise Kenya, its people fought back. From 1942, members from numerous local tribes united to fight for freedom from British rule. Ten years later, Jomo Kenyatta, 61 at the time, was actively directing this movement of independence and was subsequently imprisoned along with 82 other nationalists. 

The rebellion continued and in 1963, Kenya gained its independence with Jomo Kenyatta was elected as Prime Minister. Since its independence, Kenya has been paving the way for its people and, although a journey filled with its own dark history, the country continues to fight and stand together to flourish and grow for the future of its country. Today, tourism is a big part of Kenya’s growing economy and success.

Why book with us?

• Kenya safaris

Kenya safari guide – where & when to go, and what to see

Kenya safaris rock! Kenya is one of East Africa’s premier safari destinations, with massive open savannah regions hosting a huge breadth and depth of African wildlife. Over 10% of the country is protected in some form or other, and national parks in Kenya rate as some of the best in the world. A safari in Kenya almost guarantees you a sighting of the big five African animals of lion , buffalo , elephant , rhino , and leopard . Alongside these big-hitters are hundreds of other species of African animals, and some of the world’s most diverse bird-life.

Straddling the equator, Kenya is dominated by the Rift Valley – a huge range of valleys strung along a 5,000 km crack in the earth’s crust that runs through East Africa. Within the Rift Valley are Africa’s highest peaks – in Kenya these are the volcanoes of Mount Kenya and Mount Elgon. East of the Rift Valley are the coastal plains, whilst the north of Kenya is made up of arid wastelands. The prime Kenya safari destinations are the Central Highlands and areas within the Rift Valley. The south of the country hosts the great migration of plains animals and their predators each year between June and November. In short, Kenya safaris are up there with the very best in terms of wildlife and scenery.

Self-drive safaris are an option in many national parks in Kenya, though to enjoy full access to the most remote (and tourist-free) areas you’ll need a 4WD car or jeep. If you fancy taking a tour or arranging your own guide and/or driver have a look at our list of safari tour companies in Kenya before arrival in the country.

Alongside safaris and wildlife spotting, a visit to Kenya allows you to easily extend your safari with a visit to a resort on the Indian Ocean coast, or with activities such as trekking, hiking, sailing or diving .

Useful resources

• Book a Kenya Safari
• Kenyan Ministry of Tourism
• Kenya Wildlife Service

Kenya safari highlights

Experience maasai culture.

The Maasai are one of the few African tribes who have retained most of their traditions, lifestyle, and lore – along with their distinctive red robes. Many safari lodges and operators work with local Maasai on community projects. Experiencing some time in a Maasai village whilst in Kenya is a unique cultural experience that will help put your visit in context.

Big five spotting

Big five spotting in Kenya is high on most visitor’s safari checklist, and with Kenya’s superb network of national park gems seeing Africa’s biggest beasts up close and personal is a realistic goal. Destinations rich in lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo are clustered in the south of the country, particularly Amboseli, Masai Mara and East and West Tsavo (for the Tsavo lions !) national parks.

Watch the ‘Great Wildebeest Migration’

Indian ocean beach perfection

Best time to safari in Kenya

The peak tourist season in Kenya is January and February when the weather is consistently warm and dry, with wildlife easy to spot in large concentrations. If you take a Kenya safari in peak season expect to be in company with crowds of tourists, and paying top dollar for your safari. If you’re specifically after catching sight of the annual great migration, June to October is the time to head to the Masai Mara National Park in southern Kenya.

The long rains hit Kenya through March, April and May, and the short rains from October to December. During the short rains, it generally rains only for short periods at a time, meaning your wildlife viewing will not be too disrupted. This is the time you can get some great deals on safari tours, or safari lodges if you’re travelling independently.

Flights To Kenya

Search, track and book flights to Kenya, from anywhere in the world.

Kenya Accommodation

Find safari accommodation in Kenya – from budget campsites to luxury lodges.

Kenya Car Hire

Considering a self-drive safari? Research and book car hire in Kenya.

Activities in Kenya

Search and book things to do in Kenya – tours, excursions and activities.

National parks in Kenya

With a stunning array of wildlife and more than 10% of the country given over to national parks and reserves, Kenya is undoubtedly one of the world’s best safari destinations. Whilst the world-famous Kenyan national parks such as Masai Mara and Amboseli National Parks can be uncomfortably heaving with tourists in January and February, Kenya has plenty of smaller, out of the way national parks that see only a trickle of visitors year-round. As such it’s well worth taking the time to consider whereabouts in Kenya to go on safari if you’re visiting during peak season.

Top Kenya national park picks

Masai mara national reserve.

 Situated in southwest Kenya, the Masai Mara is part of the northern section of the Serengeti National Park, and is generally recognised as one of the greatest wildlife reserves in Africa. The reserve is famous for the abundance of predators – particularly big cats – and the great wildebeest migration to feed these predators, as well as the Maasai people themselves.

• Lake Nakuru National Park

The stunning Lake Nakuru National Park is on the floor of the Great Rift Valley, surrounded by bushy grasslands and woods. There are 56 species of mammal in the park, but the star show are the thousands of flamingos, arriving in their millions some years.

• Amboseli National Park

Crowned by Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is one of Kenya’s most popular parks . The name ‘Amboseli’ comes from the Maasai language and means ‘salty dust’… perfect for the large herds of elephants that roam the park.

• Meru National Park

Meru National Park is a Kenyan park is located 350 km from Nairobi, featuring multiple landscapes including grasslands, swamp, jungle and rivers. It’s a birders paradise with over 427 recorded bird species, in addition to the big five .

All national parks in Kenya

Use the map below to locate all national parks in Kenya. Click the icons for more info.

Get Directions

• Aberdare National Park
• Arabuk Sokoke National Park
• Hell’s Gate National Park
• Kakamega National Park
• Lake Bogaria National Park
• Malindi Watumu National Park
• Masai Mara National Park
• Mount Elgon National Park
• Mount Kenya National Park
• Nairobi National Park
• Saiwa Swamp National Park
• Shimba Hills National Park
• Tsavo National Park

Kenya safari resources

Kenya safari companies.

There are plenty of companies offering safari tours around Kenya. The focus is on the high end, but there are some companies that specialize in mid and budget safaris. Check out our reviews of safari tour companies in Kenya .

Kenya safari lodges

As a tourism-focussed country, Kenya has plenty of choice when it comes to safari accommodation. Lodge standards vary from rustic to modern, from the simple room to extreme luxury with en-suite private plunge pool. Search and book accommodation in Kenya .

For a trip to Kenya, travellers are required to apply for a visa. The easiest, most commonly used visa for going on a safari in Kenya, is the Kenya e-visa . It is valid for 90 days, and can even be extended once to 180 days once you arrive in Kenya. The visa can easily be applied for online and will save you the hassle of having to apply at an embassy or consulate.

Read safari guides to all countries

Botswana safaris , Namibia safaris , Rwanda safaris , South Africa safaris , Tanzania safaris , Uganda safaris , Zimbabwe safaris

Do you have any experience of planning or going on safari in Kenya?

We’d love to hear any feedback or tips you may have – please get in touch , or add to the comments below.

Top countries for safaris

• Botswana safaris
• Namibia safaris
• South Africa safaris
• Tanzania safaris
• Uganda safaris

Safari basics

• Safari animals
• How to find the right safari company
• When to go on safari
• What to take on safari
• Safari clothing – what to wear
• Safari rules & etiquette
• Wildlife spotting tips

Most read articles

• All about the ‘big five’ animals
• Collective nouns for animals
• Safari movies to watch before you go
• The world’s fastest land animals
• Apex predators
• 10 Fascinating African tribes
• The biggest animals in the world
• 17 Epic hybrid animals
• The world’s ugliest animals
• Why are flamingos pink?

Africa’s best game reserves

• Chobe National Park, Botswana
• Etosha National Park, Namibia
• Kruger National Park, South Africa
• Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
• Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
• Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Session expired

Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.

Kenya safari: the planning guide for first-time visitors

A Kenya safari ignites the imagination . Elephants walking beneath Mount Kilimanjaro; leopards yawning on Mara tree branches; the epic plains of Samburu.

This is the country that came to define an African safari , where you get incredibly close to all sorts of wildlife, on all sorts of landscapes. Almost 50 national parks and reserves provide safari experiences and the wildlife isn’t confined with fences; sometimes it’s walking on the road!

Kenya really put safari on the map. For good reason: in no other country is the wildlife so widespread . In capital city Nairobi you can see giraffe and rhinos backdropped by skyscrapers. Sometimes you see zebra along the highway.

However, Kenya has fallen out of favour in recent years and overtaken by Tanzania in terms of popularity. That’s good news for you . Why? Kenya has all the wildlife and wilderness for an incredible safari experience, plus the well developed infrastructure for making a comfortable connection with your wild side. But the destinations aren’t crowded. Here you can have the safari to yourself.

This detailed guide shows you the places to go , wildlife to see , experiences to consider , and useful tips for planning the adventure. It’s a guide for first-time visitors looking to discover the wonder of a Kenya safari.

Kenya Safari – Essential Information

Where is Kenya and how do I get there?

Kenya straddles the equator in East Africa and has a long Indian Ocean coastline. It borders Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Ethiopia and Somalia.

Almost every international visitor arrives into Nairobi’s recently redeveloped international airport . From here it’s easy to travel by air or road to different national parks and safari destinations .

What makes Kenya safaris so special?

While the great wildebeest migration rumbles into Kenya’s Masai Mara every June, Kenya safaris are really special for their ease and diversity . No other country offers so much choice over what to do and where to go. There’s something for every kind of visitor and every level of adventure.

This diversity extends to the settings . Parks like the Samburu feel endless. Others are small and compact. So much choice makes it incredibly easy to go on a safari. Even if you only have a 12-hour Nairobi layover you can still see lions and cheetahs.

What animals can I see on a Kenya safari?

Eclectic landscapes support a stunning array of wildlife. Kenya is superb for encountering the predators , with healthy populations of lion, leopard, hyena and cheetah. It has a growing black rhino population and solid numbers of elephant, buffalo and hippo.

However, it’s usually the supporting cast that makes a Kenya safari so good. Think zebra, different giraffe subspecies, all manner of large antelope, plus primates that swing through the trees around your lodge.

This wildlife is rarely encountered on its own nor is it confined to national parks . You can be relaxing on a white sand beach with colobus monkeys as neighbours. Or taking a bus along the main highway and spotting elephants through the window!

How long do I need a Kenya safari?

To really connect with your wild side it’s better to go on a multi-day , multi-destination safari . Exploring different parks enhances the wildlife experience while staying longer means it’s more immersive.

However, a major highlight of visiting Kenya is that it doesn’t matter how long you have for a safari . You can visit a park for three hours and see a variety of wild animals. Or you could go on safari for a month. With so many destinations to choose from, it’s easy to find a safari that suits your time frame and budget.

What does a Kenya safari cost?

Diversity and choice means a Kenya safari can be tailored around your budget . Kenya is noticeably cheaper than Tanzania although the prices range enormously dependent on where you go.

Famous parks like the Masai Mara and Amboseli are the most expensive , especially if you’re staying within the park or in a private conservancy. Realistically, you should be thinking of USD 150 per day as a starting point when touring the bigger destinations. This rises to over USD 1000 a day for staying in the very best camps and using light aircraft to fly between destinations.

However, you can cycle with zebra and giraffe in Hell’s Gate National Park for just USD 30 . It’s possible to camp on Lake Naivasha for USD 10 a night and see hippos every evening. With a tight daily budget of USD 50 – 70, Kenya is still able to offer lots of safari experiences; Kenya is a good choice for backpackers put off by the expensive fees and permits in Tanzania.

How do I travel around Kenya?

Many of the parks can be accessed by public transport , which keeps the costs down. You can take a bus to a town near the park gate and have a local operator take you from there. Tour operators also provide more complete packages. You drive between destinations in the same vehicle you use for a safari – the roof pops open and you stand on the seats for a prime view.

Note that the distances are long in Kenya . For example, from the Masai Mara to Samburu will take you the best part of three days on the road. Upmarket safaris use light aircraft, bringing such a journey down from three days to under three hours.

Why Choose Kenya for a Safari

Kenya brings to mind wildebeest galloping over the plains, elephants roaming in large herds, and lions with flowing manes. Back in the 1980s, this was the country that really introduced African safari to the world .

Here there is a great abundance of different animals and landscapes . It’s easy to find a safari that suits your interests and budget. Plus, it’s possible to get incredibly close to it all.

In Kenya there is all the promise of an African safari and the adventure can be tailored to you. Furthermore, you don’t even need to be on a safari to see wild animals.

But the best reason for choosing Kenya is the lack of other visitors . The Masai Mara is arguably Africa’s most famous safari destination. This park is popular and can get crowded. But everywhere else isn’t.

It’s not the same experience when there are 20 safari vehicles crowding around a leopard. That’s not the case here – the Mara aside – and in some of the destinations you don’t even need a guide with you. You can be walking through fields of wild zebra and buffalo, with nobody else around, for just a USD 30 entrance permit.

Unique safari experiences only found in Kenya

• Watch great herds of wildebeest cross the Mara River , as crocodiles hang out their hungry jaws.
• Go on a mountain bike safari in parks like Hell’s Gate, where the lack of carnivores and elephants means the experience is safe.
• Encounter white and black rhinos together on the Laikipia Plateau (this is very unique indeed!).
• Explore the vast open grasslands of Samburu in the north of Kenya.
• Encounter over a dozen primate species , including rare mangabeys, on walking safaris in Kenya’s forested parks.
• Go on a big-game safari in Nairobi National Park , next to the city.
• Take thrilling nighttime game drives in one of the country’s private conservancies.
• Hot air balloon above the Masai Mara.
• Watch elephants wandering beneath snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli.

Safari experiences that are commonplace in Kenya

• Relax by a lake or waterhole and watch hippos coming out at sunset.
• Go on a walking safari – no other county has so many places to do it.
• Fly between remote wilderness areas in light aircraft , landing on dusty, elephant-surrounded runways.
• See giraffe and zebra along the road.
• Track leopards and cheetahs on the grasslands.
• Come to know different monkey species , especially colobus and vervet monkeys .
• Stay in a beautiful camp that reminisces about the time of old explorers.
• Mix up your itinerary to include drives, walks, cycles, boat trips and scenic flights.

Wait, is Kenya safe to visit for a holiday?

Yes . Yes . And yes once more . Okay, Kenya has suffered from a handful of well publicised terrorist attacks. Newspapers and news channels seem to take glee in these, painting Kenya as a volatile country and prime target for terror attacks.

The narrative says that Kenya is dangerous and should be avoided. But after the Paris terror attack the news never suggested it wasn’t safe to visit France . London is considered a safe and amazing city, yet it has had more terrorist attacks over the last 20 years than the whole of Kenya. Then a small number of isolated attacks in Nairobi and there’s a suggestion that Kenya is like Armageddon.

Without wanting to sound too political, part of the problem could be how well developed Kenya has become . The country is thriving economically and has all the potential to be a major world power – educated and passionate people, an abundance of natural resources, a forward-thinking attitude. It’s not the first time that the West has put a rising African nation down.

There is a no-go area of 100 kilometres to the Somalian border . Other than this Kenya is very safe to visit. You need to watch out for rampaging elephants rather than terrorists. And the isolated attacks have been in the most developed parts of major cities – these are many hundreds of miles away from the wilderness.

To not visit the Masai Mara because there was a terrorist attack in Nairobi, is like not visiting the French Riviera because of what occurred in Paris.

The Best Time to Visit Kenya for a Safari

Kenya straddles the equator and has a classic East African climate of dry seasons and rainy seasons . 50 years ago these seasons were very clear cut.

They have become unpredictable . One Africa Freak contributor was at Lake Naivasha in January 2019 and it rained solidly for four days, something that was unheard of to the locals.

Kenya has a hot and steamy Indian Ocean coastline but most of the safari destinations are found on elevated plateaus. So although you are on the equator it’s never usually too hot , even at the peak of dry season.

January to March – Premium dry season game viewing

• This is usually the warmest time of year and it shouldn’t be raining – even if it sometimes does!
• A lack of water and low grass makes this a premier time for game viewing ; animals are easiest to spot during these months.
• March is a wonderful time of year to visit, before the rains and without any crowds .

April and May – Rains and off season

• The long rainy season , with regular downpours that carpet the landscape in fresh colour.
• Many lodges close during these months and areas of national parks become inaccessible.
• Visit during these months and you’ll have Kenya all to yourself!

June – Lush green plains and a comfortable climate

• A great month as the parks are alive with fresh grass and grazing animals.
• It should be dry and it’s before peak season , making this a good time to see the Masai Mara in bloom.

July and August – Great wildebeest migration and peak season

• Enormous herds of wildebeest make their famous crossing over the Mara River, to graze in the Masai Mara.
• The climate is cool and dry ; lush high grass does make it more difficult to see the predators.
• These are comfortably the most popular months for visiting Kenya, especially the Masai Mara.

September and October – Wildebeest cover the Mara and superb countrywide game viewing

• If you had to choose the absolute best time for a Kenya safari it is now.
• The grass has shrivelled and game viewing conditions are excellent all across the country.
• The wildebeest migration is still in Kenya and the Masai Mara provides stunning scenes of predator versus prey.
• July and August crowds have disappeared , leaving Kenya back to its quiet best.

November and December – Short rains; still good for safari

• The short rains bring some rainfall, but not as frequent or abundant as earlier in the year.
• Most destinations remain good for safari although some of the highland areas can become inaccessible.

Where to Visit in Kenya for a Safari

This article provides a more detailed guide to the main safari destinations in Kenya . There are a lot of parks and reserves to choose from and you shouldn’t feel geographically restricted to a particular area .

Combining a selection of these parks is what a Kenya safari is all about, particularly destinations in different parts of the country. The most famous itinerary is the Masai Mara combined with Samburu and a park in Central Kenya .

Note that there are more parks and reserves than this . Only the premier destinations have been listed here.

Southern Kenya

The most famous and popular place to go on a Kenya safari . These parks are a half-day drive or one-hour flight south of Nairobi. They are easily combined with a safari in Tanzania, most famously the Masai Mara with the Serengeti .

Amboseli – With large elephant herds backdropped by Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is as iconic as it comes. It’s a great safari introduction and there’s a real wow factor to the setting.

Chyulu Hills – Mammals roam rolling green hills here, sometimes alongside Masai tribesmen herding their cattle. You’ll struggle to find the predators but it’s an exquisite place, especially if you’re seeking a little rest and relaxation.

Masai Mara – Africa’s most famous destination, where grasslands are carpeted in wildebeest and zebra. It’s arguably the best place in Africa for encounters with lion prides and to witness raw hunting scenes. The wildebeest migration stays here from July to October but the park is packed with other life all year around.

The Masai Mara is surprisingly small in comparison to the Serengeti and if visiting in peak season (July and August), it’s better to stay in one of the private conservancies.

Central Kenya

A kaleidoscope of different landscapes come together in Central Kenya. Volcanoes soar, forests entice, grasslands extend and the lakes are filled with hippos. Each of these safari destinations has a specific appeal .

They are all worthy places to visit if you seek a short safari experience , or only plan to visit one park. Combining any of these destinations is relatively straightforward and you could see one park a day should you wish.

Aberdares National Park – A forest in the clouds offering stunning multi-day walking safaris. Don’t come for the big five. Instead, Aberdares is a haven for animals you don’t normally see on safari, especially rare and endangered monkey species.

Central Rift Valley – There are more than ten parks and reserves in the Rift Valley, between Nairobi and Nakuru. Most are small and best for unique half- or full-day activities, such as hiking Mount Longonot or self-guided mountain biking in Hell’s Gate. This is where you’ll see large animals along the highway and the lack of carnivores makes it very safe for different activities.

Kakamega Forest – A rainforest ecosystem reminiscent of Central Africa, Kakamega is cool, calm and completely different from everywhere else in Kenya.

Laikipia Plateau – Home to many private conservancies, this mystical wilderness offers luxurious lodges and exclusive safari experiences. It’s a great place if you have never been on a safari. Here you can encounter lots of different animals in a small area, including the famous big five .

Lake Naivasha – Camp besides a hippo-filled lake and enjoy some of Africa’s best bird watching, without having to pay any national park fees or book a guided safari.

Lake Nakuru National Park – A flamingo-filled lake combined with both black and white rhinos makes this a popular Kenyan destination. You only need a day to see it all.

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy – One of Africa’s best private conservancies or reserves. Lewa is expensive but offers a perfect three-day safari itinerary, mixing different ecosystems and activities with luxurious accommodation.

Meru National Park – The complete big five and more on the slopes of a volcanic mountain.

Mount Kenya National Park – Not as famous as climbing Kilimanjaro but a beautiful 5,199 metre mountain to climb, with lots of monkeys still living in the forests.

Nairobi National Park – The perfect stopover destination or place to spend the day before your international flight. Rhino, buffalo, lion, hyena, giraffe – backdropped by the lights of a modern city!

Ol Pejeta Conservancy – A small conservancy and the best place in East Africa to see rhinos in the wild, with both the black and white subspecies, along with the only two northern white rhinos left in the world. There’s also a large chimpanzee sanctuary and you can go on a lion-tracking patrol.

Northern Kenya

Wild northern Kenya is home to the Samburu , a tribal people who have expertly preserved both the wilderness and wildlife. Getting here is a challenge but it’s so worth it. As long as you have enough time to enjoy the safari that is, northern Kenya is not for a one-day safari!

Samburu – Wrapped around mountain slopes, Samburu is an escape from the world. If you want a truly wild safari, in a truly untamed wilderness, this is where you should come. Walk with local warrior guides, track the famed big mammals and many others, and experience the beauty of the unknown. You can stay in the national park or in one of the Samburu-owned conservancies.

Coastal Kenya

Over 500 kilometres of white beaches skirt the Indian Ocean, as tropical and exotic as any of the nearby islands like the Maldives. Yet there aren’t any people on the sand.

The classic Kenya vacation is to combine an African safari with some downtime on the beach . Or you can stay on the coast and choose to make a day or overnight safari trip.

The Beaches! –  Kenya has the best beaches in the world. Monkeys fill the forests behind endless kilometres of white sand. Indian Ocean waters are rich in marine life and form tropical lagoons. Stunning resorts are spaciously set out but there isn’t much tourism anymore – so their prices are cheap and you can get the beach almost to yourself.

Diani is a stunning destination for all budgets. Malindi has many boutique, upmarket resorts. Lamu is a miniature version of Zanzibar, with coral houses, Swahili culture and open beaches.

Shimba Hills National Reserve – Hundreds of elephants and a handful of other wildlife make this a worthy day trip from Kenya’s southern beaches. There are far better safari destinations in Kenya, but it’s so magical to combine elephants with white sand in a single day.

Tsavo East – This large national park is all about surprise. The biodiversity is breathtaking and you need to visit for at least two days. Large sections of the park lie empty but patience rewards as you stumble upon intimate and dramatic safari scenes.

Tsavo West – Separated from Tsavo East by the Nairobi to Mombasa highway, this park of green mountains and wetlands is scattered with the big five. It’s a good place to see hippos and other wildlife as most action is easily found around the Tsavo River and Mzima Springs.

What is a private conservancy and why do I need to know about it?

National parks and national reserves are managed by the Kenyan government . Anyone can visit them and you pay a daily park fee. Rules are relatively strict in order to preserve the landscape, such as no driving off road; these rules vary by park .

Private conservancies are privately managed wilderness areas . Usually you can only visit if you’re staying at a lodge or camp in the conservancy. They are more expensive and exclusive, offering a wider variety of activities and less rules. Usually you can get closer to wildlife in conservancies.

Some conservancies share unfenced boundaries with national parks ; for example, there are almost a dozen of them around the Masai Mara. Visit these and you enjoy all the beauty and bounty of the famous park, but with more flexibility about what you do and even fewer other visitors.

Tips for Planning a Kenya Safari

Safari is all about connecting with your wild side and Kenya has more wild places than anywhere else. Africa Freak partners with top safari specialists , who can help plan a trip that’s best for your interests and budget. You can do this by clicking here .

We’re also confident that the warm Kenyan people will assist you once you arrive . If you have time for a two- or three-week trip it’s easy to plan when you arrive and fit in a huge variety of safari destinations.

About The Author

Editorial Team

Related posts.

5 wildlife-related activities you can do in Nairobi

Amboseli National Park – Discover more than elephants

Lake Naivasha – One of Africa’s best-kept secrets

3 thoughts on “kenya safari: the planning guide for first-time visitors”.

There are no elephants in Nairobi NP!

Indeed, thanks for pointing that out.

There are no “wild” elephants in Nairobi National Park, only “orphaned” ones at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

We just made the appropriate changes, thanks again.

Awesome guide! Learned a lot reading your blog. And the photos are incredible! Loved that you mentioned that Kenya is a safe place to explore. I guess many people think twice about visiting the country due to bad news about war and terrorist attacks. But seeing your blog is just so light and refreshing. It’s nice that you mentioned the parks in the country that we can go see and brief descriptions about them. Great work! Keep it up!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Kenya Safari Tours, Package Holidays and Lodges

This is the original "Out of Africa" safari destination.

Magic of the Masai Mara

You know the images from various documentaries - sweeping savannah plains teeming with over a million Wildebeest, the Maasai tribe and Big Cats. Experience it for yourself on a Masai Mara safari tour . Witness the Migration between August and October plus great game viewing opportunities throughout the year.  

Premier Kenya Safari

Classic Kenya Safari

Luxury Kenya Safari

Kenya Beach Holidays

Shaba and Samburu National Park

Great Rift Valley

The Great Rift Valley is the land of Soda Lakes, including Lake Nakuru , renowned for thousands of Flamingos. These luxury Kenya safaris include tours through Samburu, Lake Naivasha and Masai Mara. Experience these diverse national parks which abound with wildlife.  

Amboseli and Tsavo

Mombasa Beach and Island Resorts

Come and relax on one of these beautiful beaches of the Kenyan coast with our Kenya Beach and Island holidays . These elegant resorts and beach lodges offer a wide array of water-sports and excursions. Explore the vibrant culture of Mombasa and the historic Island of Lamu.  

Find a Hotel in Nairobi

Map of kenya.

View a map of Kenya

• Customer Support
• Tel: +27 21 424 1037
• Fax: +27 21 424 1036
• Contact by Mail
• Business Hours
• Mon - Fri. 08:00 - 17:00
• Saturday. 08:00 - 12:00
• Reservations and Bookings
• Booking Conditions
• Visa and Passport
• About Siyabona Africa (Pty) Ltd
• Most Popular Pages
• Kenya Safari Packages
• Masai Mara Tours
• Experience Tsavo East
• Experience Tsavo West
• Aberdare National Park
• Kenyan Food
• Christian The Lion
• Amboseli National Park
• Kenya Safari Destinations
• Shaba and Samburu
• Mount Kenya
• Rift Valley Lakes
• Lake Victoria
• Kenya Coast
• Nairobi Hotels

• Kenya Safari Tours

Kenya Safaris From Nairobi

Make the memories of a lifetime with our kenya safari tours from nairobi.

Explore the wild wonders of Kenya with our captivating safaris departing from the bustling city of Nairobi. Immerse yourself in the heart of East Africa’s rich landscapes and diverse wildlife as you venture into renowned national parks and reserves. Our thoughtfully curated safaris promise an unforgettable blend of adventure, comfort, and the thrill of encountering iconic African animals.

Embark on a thrilling safari adventure with our Kenya safaris from Nairobi. Depart from the vibrant capital and journey into the heart of East Africa’s wilderness. Explore iconic national parks, witness the Great Migration, and encounter the Big Five. Our guided safaris from Nairobi promise an unforgettable blend of nature, culture, and wildlife. Book your Kenya safari from Nairobi with Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris now for a seamless exploration of Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Elevate your East African adventure with a safari departing from Nairobi

 Whether you would like to go on a Kenya Safari Tour or maybe you wish to attend an authentic one in Africa, you’re likely to discover that the prices will be different based on what you would like to do, where you wish to go, the tour guide company, accommodations and inclusions.

Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris will help you to plan the right Kenya Safari tour for you and your family. Among them, a safari in Masai Mara Game Reserve is deemed to be the finest and famous on the planet. Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris is committed to making sure that you have an experience unlike any others you may have anywhere as you get the most out of the very best of Kenya Safari Tours.

On the road or drive in safari tours from Nairobi, Transportation to the parks and game viewing drives will be in a private 4×4 Land Cruiser Jeep – this vehicle is the safari standard with its higher seating and rugged all-wheel drive. Always included on our tours, the Land Cruiser Jeep is just another example of the value we offer you at Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris.

Witness the magic of Kenya’s wildlife, capture unforgettable moments, and return with memories that resonate. Book your safari now for an experience that seamlessly combines exploration, luxury, and the untamed beauty of Africa.

SHORT & MEDIUM DISTANCE KENYA SAFARIS FROM NAIROBI

2 – 6 Days Safaris Starting in Nairobi and ending in Nairobi/Mombasa/Diani/Kilifi/Lamu/Malindi

4 Days Amboseli & Tsavo National Parks Safari

Nairobi >> Amboseli >>Tsavo West >>Tsavo East >> Nairobi

6 Days Masai Mara To The Shores of Lake Nakuru Safari

Nairobi Kenya >> Masai Mara >> Lake Nakuru >> Amboseli >>  Mombasa Kenya

6 Days Mara To The Shores of Lake Naivasha

Nairobi Kenya >> Masai Mara >> Lake Naivasha >> Amboseli >> Tsavo West >> Mombasa Kenya

5 Days Masai Mara-Naivasha To Mombasa Safari

Nairobi Kenya >> Masai Mara >> Lake Naivasha >> Amboseli >> Mombasa Kenya

5 Days Amboseli To Beach Safari

Nairobi Kenya >> Amboseli >> Tsavo West >> Tsavo East >> Train Station >> Mombasa 

5 Days Masai Mara To Mombasa Safari

Nairobi Kenya >> Masai Mara >> Amboseli >>Train Station >> Mombasa Kenya

3 Days Amboseli Mt.Kilimanjaro Safari

Nairobi Kenya >> Amboseli >> Train Station >> Mombasa Kenya

3 Days Nairobi To Mombasa Safari

Nairobi Kenya >> Amboseli >> Tsavo East >>Train Station >> Mombasa Kenya

3 Days Nairobi to Kenya Beach Safari

Nairobi Kenya >> Amboseli >> Tsavo West >>Train Station >> Mombasa Kenya

3 Days Tsavo Parks To the Beach Safari

Nairobi Kenya >> Tsavo West >> Tsavo East >> Mombasa Kenya

6 Days 4 Parks To Ol Pejeta Conservancy Safari

Nairobi >> Aberdare >> Ol Pejeta >> Nakuru >> Naivasha << Nairobi

4 Days Nairobi-Amboseli & Tsavo Safari

Nairobi >> Amboseli >> Tsavo West >> Tsavo East >> Mombasa

5 Days-Amboseli -Saltlick & Tsavo East Safari

Nairobi >> Amboseli >> Taita Hills >> Tsavo East >> Beach Hotel

2 Days Lake Nakuru National Park Safari

Nairobi Hotel or Airport  >> Lake Nakuru << Nairobi Hotel or Airport

3 Days Baringo, Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Safari

Nairobi >> Baringo >> Lake Nakuru >> Lake Naivasha  << Nairobi or Airport

4 Days Lake Nakuru And Masai Mara Safari

Nairobi >>  Lake Nakuru >> Masai Mara << Nairobi

5 Days Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari

Nairobi >> Lake Nakuru >> Masai Mara << Nairobi

6 Days Lake Nakuru And Masai Mara Kenya Safari

Nairobi >> Lake Nakuru >> Mara << Nairobi Hotel/Airport

6 Days Amboseli-Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari

Nairobi >> Amboseli >>  Nakuru >> Mara << Nairobi

LONG DISTANCE KENYA SAFARIS FROM NAIROBI

7 – 12 Days Safaris Starting in Nairobi and ending in Nairobi/Mombasa/Diani/Kilifi/Lamu/Malindi

8 Days 5 Parks Best of Kenya Wildlife Safari

Nairobi >> Tsavo West >> Amboseli >> Naivasha >> Nakuru >> Samburu <<  Nairobi

8 Days 5 National Parks Kenya Safari From Nairobi

Nairobi>> Aberdare >> Samburu >> Nakuru >> Naivasha>> Mara << Nairobi

7 Days Amboseli-Nakuru To Masai Mara Safari

Nairobi >> Amboseli >> Lake Nakuru >> Maasai Mara << Nairobi hotel or Airport

7 Days Amboseli-Lake Naivasha To Masai Mara Safari

Nairobi >> Amboseli >> Naivasha >>  Mara << Nairobi

8 Days Samburu, Olpejeta, Masai Mara Safari

Nairobi kenya >> Aberdare >> Olpejeta >>Samburu  >> lake Nakuru >> Masai Mara << Nairobi

11 Days Best of Kenya Safari and Beach Vacation Stay

Nairobi >> Masai Mara >> Amboseli National Park >> Tsavo West >> Beach 

7 Days Road and Rail To Masai Mara, Scenic Lakes and Mt. Kilimanjaro Safari

Nairobi Kenya >> Masai Mara >> Lake Nakuru >> Lake Naivasha >> Amboseli >>  Mombasa Kenya

9 Days Total Safari Experience Kenya

Nairobi Kenya >> Masai Mara >> Lake Nakuru >> Lake Naivasha >> Amboseli >> Tsavo West >> Tsavo East >>  Mombasa

12 Days Kenya Beach Safari From Nairobi

Nairobi  >> Samburu >> Ol Pejeta >> Aberdare >> Lake Nakuru >> Masai Mara >> Lake Naivasha >> Amboseli >> Tsavo West >>  Mombasa

WHY BOOK WITH US

• Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris is a locally owned and operated tour company
• Guides are knowledgeable about the landscape, animals, plants, and history of the areas covered
• Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris enjoys many 5-star reviews from clients that speak of our customer service
• Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris provides customizable and affordable Kenya safari tours
• Door-to-door, on-time hotel pickups and drop-offs
• Fulfilling clients’ expectations of seeing the “Big Five” on safari

CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION

For more information about our safari excursions, or to book your dream safari trip with Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris, simply get in touch with our friendly travel advisors. Give us a call on +254 105773933 or leave your details on our contact us page , and we’ll reply as quickly as possible.

OUR ACCREDITATION & BOOKING SECURITY

Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris © 2024. All Rights Reserved.

This action is disabled.

• Destinations
• PLAN YOUR SAFARI
• Request A Quote

Call Today! 800-421-8907

Kenya Wildlife Safari

AIRFARE INCLUDED

11 days from $6,659* per person

* Based on double occupancy, incl. taxes & fuel surcharges, restrictions apply.

* Prices are in US dollars, based on double occupancy.

Accommodations

Similar trips, upcoming group departures.

Jul 14 - 24, 2024. - SOLD OUT

Aug 18 - 28, 2024. - SOLD OUT

Sep 15 - 25, 2024. - SOLD OUT

Oct 13 - 23, 2024. - SOLD OUT

Nov 3 - 13, 2024. From $6,999

Dec 1 - 10, 2024. From $7,199

How Your Trip Matters

Wildlife is a star attraction and so is a memorable day in Nairobi visiting pioneering wildlife sanctuaries and meeting disadvantaged artisans creating beautiful works of art.

Explore the grand Maasai Mara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Kenya’s top wildlife destination.

Discover the scenic splendor of Samburu National Reserve, known for its rare northern species such as the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk and the beisa oryx.

Experience a day visiting our favorite “Make Travel Matter” sights in Nairobi including the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, best known for its orphaned elephant project.

**International airfare from New York (JFK) is included. For baggage information visit the airline's website .

1. Sarova Stanley Hotel

Nairobi, Kenya

Sarova Stanley launched itself into Kenyan history in 1902 by becoming the first luxury hotel in Nairobi and the gracious host of prominent world leaders, renowned authors, and international celebrities. Guest rooms offer a blend of Victorian elegance and comfort, combined with all the practical, amenities of the modern age. The hotel offers an eclectic mix of dining options, from delectable Thai specialties, an Al fresco dinner with a city view, to an open air bistro café. The bar, with a refined ambiance, set in early 19th century décor, creates an elegant environment ideal for consuming any brew.

2. Sarova Shaba Game Lodge

Samburu National Park, Kenya

Sarova Shaba Game Lodge is located in the heart of the Shaba Game Reserve along the bank of the Ewaso Nyiro River, laid out around the natural springs that flow into the river. The lodge has a virtual mini forest of indigenous trees and a fish pond.  The chalet-style rooms feature private balconies with close views of the river and game park. Supported by the lodge’s own vegetable and herb garden, all meals are served ‘al fresco’.  Raised on stilts, the restaurant offers breathtaking views of the lush gardens and the Ewaso Nyiro River. The bar is located along the river bank with natural spring water channels where guests can unwind. The swimming pool offers a relaxing spot, further enhanced with an elaborate pool bar that serves refreshing fresh juices, a variety of cocktails, beers and light beverages. Relax and unwind at the spa while listening to the trickling natural streams and sounds of the African jungle.

3. Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge

Kenya, Lake Nakuru National Park

Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge is nestled along the Lion Hill overlooking the spectacular flamingo pink rimmed Lake Nakuru. The location offers an ideal place for panoramic views of the lake and the picturesque Lake Nakuru National Park. The lodge is a natural haven for bird life and attracts over 50 species of birds among the 400 species that inhabit the park. Each chalet offers private patios with panoramic views of Lake Nakuru, ensuite bathrooms with showers, running hot and cold water, razor outlets, beds with mosquito nets, hair dryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The Flamingo restaurant serves buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner.  The rift valley bar is just the right spot for that magical sundowner. The bar opens into an amphitheater where cultural dancers entertain visitors each evening. An inviting swimming pool & sauna facilities are also available. Guests can also enjoy outdoor massage treatments.

4. Sarova Mara Game Camp

Kenya, Masai Mara

Sarova Mara Game Camp is set amidst wide gardens of manicured lawns and exotic plants. The camp offers spacious luxurious tents attractively constructed in light beige canvas with large “windows”, wooden flooring and a permanent roof. All have ensuite bathrooms with hairdryers, shaver outlets for 110v and 200v and fully stocked mini bar. Large wooden decks offer a place to relax outside your tent. Enjoy the wonderful view while listening to the orchestra of rasping cicadas, croaking tree frogs and the intermittent call of birds and monkeys - a memorable symphony. All meals are served at the Isokun Restaurant overlooking the main pool, with a backdrop of the beautiful forest cover that surrounds the camp. The camp is uniquely laid out over the sprawling grounds that include rolling manicured greens, a virtual mini forest of indigenous shrubs and exotic trees, a large pond stocked with fish, mini bird sanctuary and an authentic Maasai village adjoining the Camp.

Day 1. New York/Nairobi, Kenya

Depart New York on your Kenya Airways flight to Nairobi. Sit back, relax, and prepare for an exhilarating adventure.

Day 2. Nairobi, Kenya

Jambo na Karibu! With a warm Swahili welcome, you will be met and transferred to the Sarova Stanley Hotel. Relax and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Sarova Stanley Hotel

Day 3. Nairobi

Day 4. Nairobi / Samburu

After breakfast, continue to the Samburu National Reserve, arriving in time for lunch. Later this afternoon set out on a game drive in search of the rare wildlife only found north of the equator. This region provides excellent year-round game viewing including a chance to encounter the ‘Samburu five’ – reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, gerenuk, Somali ostrich & Grevy's zebra. (BLD)

Sarova Shaba Game Lodge

Day 5. Samburu National Reserve

Spend the day game viewing in Samburu and Shaba Reserves with both morning and afternoon game drives. The Ewaso Nyiro River is the lifeline for the people and animals in the area and crocodile share the banks with elephant, lion, buffalo and even the elusive leopard. (BLD)

Day 6. Samburu National Reserve / Lake Nakuru

After an early morning breakfast, continue to Lake Nakuru which is the most famous of the Great Rift Valley lakes and home to a shifting population of over one million flamingos. Arrive in time for lunch at Sarova Lion Hill Lodge. Spend the afternoon on safari in search of both black and white rhino, and you have a higher than average chance of spotting a leopard. Other wildlife includes lion, hippo, the rare Rothschild's giraffe, Colobus monkey, numerous plains game and 450 species of birds. (BLD)

Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge

Day 7. Lake Nakuru / Masai Mara

After breakfast, you will be driven to the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve, backdrop to the “greatest wildlife spectacle on earth”, the annual migration of over one million wildebeest. The Masai Mara National Reserve is an extension of the Serengeti National Park. Named for the Maasai tribes people (the traditional inhabitants of the area) and the Mara River which divides it, it is famous for its exceptional population of wildlife. Arrive in time for lunch at your lodge followed by an afternoon game drive on safari in Kenya's most popular reserve. (BLD)

Sarova Mara Game Camp

Day 8. Masai Mara National Reserve

Spend the days on safari in one of Africa's richest wildlife viewing arenas with morning and afternoon game drives. The Masai Mara National Reserve offers wonderful scenery of breathtaking vistas, panoramas of vast rolling plains, hills and woodland groves. The Mara is home to the largest population of lions in Kenya; these magnificent predators spend most of the day sleeping in the shade of Acacia trees. (BLD)

Day 9. Masai Mara National Reserve

Enjoy breakfast before heading out on another game viewing activity. The waters of the Mara River are home to crocodile and hippo, while the woodlands and forests are favored by leopard and elephant. The open savannah areas play host to the plains’ game. You may choose an optional visit to a Maasai village, a fantastic cultural experience (own account). Spend the evening at the lodge where colorful Maasai dance and cultural performances are offered. (BLD)

Day 10. Masai Mara National Reserve / Nairobi / Depart

Enjoy a final game drive on the way to the airstrip. A short flight takes you back to Nairobi and on to your airport hotel. After lunch freshen up, repack and relax in your day room. This evening transfer to Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport with plenty of time to check-in for your onward arrangements. (BL)

Day 11. New York

Arrive home with a lifetime of memories!

Land Arrangements (Price per person)

**Surcharges Apply Limited no single supplement on 2024 departures. (Except May 19, 2024 departure). Limited no single supplement on April & May 2025 departures.Departs with a minimum of 4 guests.

Air Arrangements

International airfare from New York is included in Land Arrangements. Based on space availability.

*Please check with our Safari Specialist for International airfares.

Air Arrangements (Internal Airfare)

Magical Kenya

10 days from $8,899 per person

SMALL GROUP DEPARTURE

Looking for an Out of Africa experience? Travel to magical Kenya visiting the savannas of the Maasai Mara, spotting the ‘Samburu five’, and enjoying unique safari clubs and luxurious camps and lodges. 

Captivating Kenya

9 days from $18,195 per person

Participate in Kenya’s conservation success story on this safari adventure combining two amazing wildlife regions. Plus, a donation is made to care for orphaned elephants at Reteti Elephant Sanctuary.

Rwanda in the Mist

Follow in the footsteps of late activist Dian Fossey and observe the “Gorillas in the Mist” on this extraordinary journey into Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains and Parc National des Volcans.

© 2024 AFRICAN TRAVEL,INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. CST #2071444-20

Feefo Reviews

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Join us on the adventure of a lifetime and sign-up to hear about our newest journeys, offers and more!

A 10-Day Safari Itinerary in Kenya.

• October 31, 2023
• trek Afrika

A 10-day safari itinerary in Kenya is not just a journey; it’s a profound immersion into the heart of Africa. It’s a chance to witness the circle of life in action, from predators on the prowl to the great wildebeest migration across the Mara River. It’s an opportunity to capture stunning photographs of majestic elephants against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, and to feel the thrill of tracking elusive leopards through the thicket.

Day 1: Nairobi – The Gateway to Kenya

The Journey Begins

Your safari adventure commences in Kenya’s bustling capital, Nairobi. Spend your first day exploring the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Visit the Karen Blixen Museum, delve into the Nairobi National Museum, and don’t forget to feed the gentle giraffes at the Giraffe Centre. Stay overnight at a charming Nairobi hotel to recharge for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Samburu National Reserve – Land of the ‘Special Five’

Kenya Wildife

Depart Nairobi for the Samburu National Reserve, a haven for Kenya’s “Special Five” wildlife species. Witness unique animals like Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and the elusive Beisa oryx. Enjoy a game drive and relax in your luxurious lodge overlooking the Ewaso Ng’iro River.

Day 3: Samburu National Reserve – Exploring the Wilderness

Captivating Samburu

A full day of wildlife encounters awaits you. Explore the reserve’s pristine wilderness, capturing iconic images of elephants and lions against the backdrop of the Ewaso Nyiro River. As the sun sets, enjoy a bush dinner under the starlit African sky.

Day 4: Mount Kenya – The Majestic Peaks

Up in the Clouds

Travel to Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak. Hike through lush forests, spot unique birdlife, and savor the serene beauty of the mountain. Stay in a luxurious lodge with breathtaking mountain views.

Day 5: Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Conservation at its Best

Visit the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, home to the last two Northern White Rhinos on Earth. Enjoy a game drive through the conservancy, where you might also spot the “Big Five.” Spend the night in a luxurious tented camp surrounded by nature. Ol Pejeta is committed to wildlife conservation, and you can visit the Endangered Species Enclosure, which houses endangered species like the northern white rhino. Learn about the conservation efforts and maybe even witness these magnificent animals up close.

Day 6: Lake Nakuru – A Birder’s Paradise

Wings and Waters

Drive to Lake Nakuru, a haven for birdwatchers. The lake is adorned with pink flamingos and a plethora of other bird species. Don’t forget to explore the surrounding parkland, where you may encounter the rare white rhino. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at a lodge by the lake.

Day 8: Maasai Mara – The Crown Jewel of Safaris

The Grand Maasai Mara

Drive to the iconic Maasai Mara, Kenya’s most famous safari destination. Experience thrilling game drives, seeking the Big Five and the Great Migration. Stay at a luxurious Maasai Mara lodge to savor the wilderness at its best.

Kenya Wildlife Sfari Itinerary

Day 9: Maasai Mara – A Day of Wildlife Marvels

Wild Encounters

Another day in Maasai Mara for unrivaled wildlife viewing. Witness the untamed beauty of the African savannah, and perhaps even a Mara River crossing. Prepare for a farewell dinner under the African stars.

Day 10: Maasai Mara to Nairobi – Farewell Kenya

Bid farewell to Maasai Mara and return to Nairobi, reminiscing about the incredible journey you’ve had. Optionally, explore the Kazuri Beads Women’s Cooperative or visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to see orphaned elephants before departing.

Exploring Kenya’s National Parks in 10 Days

But it’s not just the natural wonders that make this safari exceptional. It’s the warm smiles of the local people, who share their stories and traditions with open hearts. It’s the vibrant colors of the Maasai beadwork and the rhythmic sounds of traditional dances that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Kenya.

As your 10-day Safari itinerary in Kenya comes to a close, you’ll find yourself profoundly changed. The memories etched into your heart will serve as a constant reminder of the fragility and importance of our natural world. You’ll return home with a deeper understanding of the delicate ecosystems that sustain life on Earth and a stronger commitment to conservation and responsible tourism.

In conclusion, a 10-day safari itinerary in Kenya is an adventure that goes beyond the physical boundaries of the country. It’s a spiritual journey that connects you with nature, humanity, and the timeless rhythms of the wild. It’s a transformational experience that leaves an indelible mark on your soul and leaves you yearning to return to Kenya’s wild beauty.

FAQs How much does a 10 day safari cost in Kenya?

1. Budget Safaris: Budget safaris typically involve basic accommodations and may cost anywhere from $1,200 to $2,800 per person for a 10-day safari. These options may involve camping or staying in more modest lodges. 2. Mid-Range Safaris: For mid-range safaris with more comfortable accommodations and services, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $6,000 per person. 3 . Luxury Safaris: Luxury safaris in Kenya can range from $6,000 to $10,000 or more per person. These often include high-end lodges, gourmet meals, and additional services.

How many days is enough for a Kenya safari?

The ideal duration for a Kenya safari can vary depending on your interests, budget, and the specific wildlife and experiences you want to encounter. However, here are some general guidelines for the duration of a Kenya safari: Short Safaris (2-4 Days): Short safaris are ideal for travelers with limited time or those looking to focus on a specific area or wildlife.You can enjoy a brief safari experience in a single national park or reserve, such as the Maasai Mara or Amboseli National Park. These shorter safaris are often more budget-friendly. Standard Safaris (5-7 Days): A 5 to 7-day safari is a common choice for most travelers, as it allows you to explore multiple parks and reserves and experience a variety of wildlife and landscapes. This duration allows you to visit different regions of Kenya and increases your chances of seeing a wide range of animals. Extended Safaris (10+ Days): If you have more time and a greater budget, an extended safari of 10 days or more can provide a more comprehensive and immersive experience. You can explore more remote and less-visited areas, spend more time observing wildlife, and include additional activities, such as cultural visits.

Which is the Cheapest Safari in Kenya?

The cost of a safari can vary widely, and the price depends on various factors, including the destination, duration, type of accommodation, level of comfort, and the specific tour operator you choose. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly safari option, consider the following: 1. Self-Drive Safaris: One of the more cost-effective ways to go on a safari is to plan a self-drive safari in a national park or wildlife reserve where it’s allowed. You can rent a 4×4 vehicle and camping equipment, reducing the cost of accommodations. Keep in mind that this option requires you to have some experience in self-driving in the wilderness. 2. Group Tours: Joining a group safari with a reputable tour operator can often be more cost-effective than a private safari. Group tours allow you to share expenses with other travelers. 3 . Budget or Mid-Range Accommodations: Choose budget or mid-range accommodations like tented camps or lodges rather than luxury lodges. These options can significantly reduce the cost of your safari while still providing comfortable lodging. 4. Shorter Duration: Consider a shorter safari, such as a 2-4 day safari, which can be more budget-friendly than longer trips. 5. Off-Peak Season: Travel during the off-peak or shoulder seasons when accommodations and tour prices may be lower. However, keep in mind that wildlife sightings might not be as abundant during these times. 6. Local Tour Operators: Consider booking your safari with local tour operators based in the destination, as they may offer more competitive prices compared to international tour companies.

What to do in Kenya in 10 days?

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi Arrive in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. Explore the city’s attractions, including the Karen Blixen Museum, Giraffe Centre, and David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Enjoy a traditional Kenyan dinner at a local restaurant. Day 2: Nairobi to Amboseli National Park Drive or fly to Amboseli National Park, known for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Go on a game drive to spot elephants, lions, zebras, and more. Stay in a lodge or tented camp within the park. Day 3: Amboseli National Park Spend the day exploring Amboseli and capturing photos of the iconic wildlife with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background. Visit Observation Hill for panoramic views of the park. Day 4: Amboseli to Tsavo West National Park Depart for Tsavo West National Park, famous for its scenic landscapes. Visit Mzima Springs, a natural spring with underwater viewing points for hippos and fish. Explore Chaimu Crater and Shetani Lava Flow. Day 5: Tsavo West to Tsavo East National Park Travel to Tsavo East National Park, the largest national park in Kenya. Enjoy game drives in search of diverse wildlife, including the “Red Elephants” of Tsavo. Relax at your chosen accommodation within the park. Day 6: Tsavo East to Mombasa Leave Tsavo East and drive to the coastal city of Mombasa. Explore Fort Jesus, Old Town, and the vibrant markets. Relax on the beautiful beaches or take a dhow cruise. Day 7: Mombasa to Diani Beach Head to Diani Beach, a popular beach destination. Enjoy water sports, relax on the white sandy beaches, and explore the surrounding area. Day 8: Diani Beach Spend a full day at leisure on Diani Beach, taking in the sun and sea. Consider activities like snorkeling, diving, or visiting a nearby marine reserve. Day 9: Diani Beach to Maasai Mara Fly or drive to the world-famous Maasai Mara National Reserve. Go on a game drive to witness the incredible wildlife, including the Great Migration if visiting during the migration season. Stay at a lodge or tented camp within the reserve. Day 10: Maasai Mara Spend the day exploring the Maasai Mara, with morning and afternoon game drives. Experience the unique culture of the Maasai people by visiting a local village. Depart from Maasai Mara and head back to Nairobi for your departure.

How to Plan Your First Safari to Kenya in 2024

Plan Your First Safari to Kenya in 2024 Kenya, often referred to as the “Safari Capital of the World,” is a land of awe-inspiring landscapes

Exploring the Magic of Kenya with Kids in 2024

Exploring the Magic of Kenya with Kids in 2024 Envision your family surrounded by the mesmerizing landscapes of Kenya, with endless plains stretching to the

Embrace the Magnificence of the 2023/2024 Kenya Safari with the Great Wildebeest Migration!

Embrace the Magnificence of the 2023/2024 Kenya Safari with the Great Wildebeest Migration in Maasai Mara. The enchanting wilderness of Kenya offers a multitude of

Exploring the Wonders of Kenya on a Budget Camping Safari.

Prepare to embark on an extraordinary adventure through the heart of Africa as we delve into the captivating realm of exploring the wonders of Kenya

Send Us A Message

+254 725 925339, email for us, [email protected].

• Tours and Safaris
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy

TOUR CATEGORY

• Adventure Safaris
• Bush & Beach Safaris
• Cross Border Safaris
• Cultural Safaris
• Family Safaris
• Kenya Big Five Safaris
• Romantic Holidays

SECURE PAYMENT

Copyright 2024 © Trek Adventures. Design and developed by Wayne graphics Solutions

Kenya’s vibrant capital is also one of Africa’s largest cities. The starting point for most East African safaris

Kenya’s vibrant capital is also one of Africa’s largest cities. The starting point for most East African safaris, there’s plenty to see and do here, from admiring handsome colonial architecture to visiting the playful young elephants at Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

At an altitude of 1,795m above sea level, Nairobi boasts a very pleasant climate all year round. Once a depot on the Mombasa/Uganda railway, the city has grown from a sleepy settlement built around a waterhole to a thriving metropolis abuzz with traffic, markets and tourist attractions.

If you’re a fan of the movie “Out of Africa”, be sure to visit the Karen Blixen Museum, located in the actual farmhouse where she lived for almost two decades on the peaceful outskirts of the Nairobi. Not far from here is the Giraffe Centre, established by a Kenyan family of Scottish descent, to bring the rare Rothschild’s giraffe back from the brink of extinction. Today, you can watch and even hand-feed some of these graceful giants, whose numbers have made a rebound thanks to the efforts of this organisation.

Further down the road within the Nairobi National Park is Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Specialising in the care of orphaned baby elephants and rhino, this sanctuary opens for just an hour each day, providing visitors with an insight into conservation efforts and some great photo opportunities.

Should you wish to “give something back”, you can foster an elephant through the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Alternatively, spend a day volunteering with some of the country’s most disadvantaged such as the kids at the Kibera Slum School or HIV-affected families at the Ngong Hills Women’s Centre & School.

When to go?

• Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
• The Karen Blixen Museum and Giraffe Centre
• Volunteering opportunities
• Nairobi National Park
• Starting point for most East African safaris

Thanks to its elevation, Nairobi enjoys mild temperatures all year round and being a busy, modern city, has no specific peak travel periods. However, it might be worthwhile timing your visit to coincide with when wildlife-viewing is at its best in Kenya’s most famous national parks.

Find out more about our tailor made African safaris. Get in touch with one of our Destination Specialists.

Subscribe below to keep up to date.

" * " indicates required fields

Find out more about our tailor made African safaris

Kenya safaris.

The following itineraries are just some of the many experiences that we can design for you. All of our tours are private, independent and tailor-made to your personal travelling requirements. Please contact us to begin creating your personalised Kenya experience.

Best of Kenya and Tanzania

This safari combines the best wildlife experiences of Kenya and Tanzania, including the Samburu, Lake Nakuru, the Masai Mara and Serengeti.

Highlights of Kenya

Discover the Highlights of Kenya on this classic safari itinerary, taking in the Samburu National Reserve, Mt Kenya, Lake Nakuru and the renowned Masai Mara.

Inspiring Sights of Kenya

This superb safari incorporates the popular Giraffe Manor in Nairobi and 3 luxury camps situated in sensational gameviewing areas throughout Kenya.

Kenya at a Glance

This tour combines two of Kenya's most famous wildlife areas: Lake Nakuru in the Great Rift Valley, and the game-rich plains of the Masai Mara.

Kenya Family Adventure

Explore the highlights of Kenya with the family, from Giraffe Manor in Nairobi to fantastic kid-friendly camps and lodges in the Samburu, Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara.

Wings over Kenya

Maximise the time that you spend exploring Kenya’s game parks on our Wings Over Kenya safari, flying into the Samburu and Masai Mara.

Best places to stay in Nairobi

The following are some of the lodges and tented camps that we recommend in Nairobi. For information on additional accommodation not featured, please contact us.

This contemporary hotel is located along Mombasa Road, close to both Nairobi's airports and the Nairobi National Park.

Fairmont The Norfolk

This landmark Nairobi hotel was built in 1904 and continues to be one of East Africa’s most popular launching points for a high-end wildlife safari.

Giraffe Manor

This boutique hotel is a Nairobi icon and offers one of the city’s most unique experiences: the opportunity to feed and walk with rare Rothschild's giraffe.

This gracious boutique hotel sets the standard for luxury accommodation in Kenya’s vibrant capital, Nairobi.

House of Waine

This excellent family-run boutique hotel offers elegant accommodation and personalised service in the leafy, upmarket Nairobi suburb of Karen.

Nairobi Serena Hotel

The award-winning Nairobi Serena Hotel offers luxury and serenity right in the middle of bustling Nairobi.

Sarova Panafric

This comfortable hotel is located in Nairobi's city centre close to many attractions including the Maasai Market and Carnivore Restaurant.

The Boma Hotel Nairobi

This comfortable, modern Nairobi hotel is located on Red Cross Road very close to Nairobi National Park.

The Fairview Hotel Nairobi

The Fairview Hotel Nairobi offers comfortable, convenient accommodation on two hectares of landscaped gardens in the heart of Nairobi.

The Panari Hotel

This comfortable deluxe hotel is close to Nairobi National Park, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Wilson Airport.

The Sarova Stanley

Kenya’s first luxury hotel, The Sarova Stanley continues to offer the same high standards of accommodation and world-class dining experiences as it did over a century ago.

More of Kenya

E-newsletter.

Sign up to receive updates about exciting journeys, special offers and more

View Covid-19 Protocols

Authentic African safaris

Tailored for you.

A  private guided safari is the way to get into East Africa and we offer just that with our local born and bred professional safari guides. They will lead you into the most beautiful destinations of Kenya and Tanzania. They have in-depth knowledge for the wildlife; flora and fauna that you will encounter along the safari trails.

We’ll give you the African safari you really want

The journeys you can see on this website are some of the very best ways to experience Africa. However, these journeys can be tailored to your particular needs such us intercoutry journeys to the Masai Mara and Serengeti. At Native Africa Voyages, we listen to you to find out what you need and desire from your African safari – and that’s what we build for you. Our travel experts work with you to tailor-make the holiday of a lifetime.

Our Safari Experiences

These popular itineraries can be customised to match your budget and how many people you’re planning to travel with..

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

Best of Kenya Family Safari

Price From USD 2950

7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS

Kenya Big 5 & Rhino Tracking Safari

Price From USD 1770

18 DAYS / 17 NIGHTS

Best of East Africa Safari Holiday

Price From USD 3500

Explore More African Adventures!

Travel Privately to Africa on a Tailor Made Journey

Elevate your travel experience with a custom Luxury Tailor Made Journey created just for you and your Kenya safari private party. Our knowledgeable experts work with you or your travel professional to design a bespoke journey that match with your preferences — everything from experiences customized to your interests to unique Masai Mara accommodations for milestone celebrations to private air and, in select destinations like the Nairobi National Park or Serengeti, privately chartered luxury boutique boats at Zanzibar . No request is too small or far-reaching. If you dream of doing it, Native Afrika Voyages can make it happen.

Explore A Different Way To Travel

At Native Afrika Voyages, we are former wildlife safari guides and specialists in the Kenya Safaris, Tanzania  Safaris and other African Wildlands, ensuring you get up close and personal with wildlife. Majority of our safaris are tailored to your specific requirements – whether you are a family looking for adventure or honeymooners looking for some relaxation – we excel in specialized set departures. To have a chat with one of our specialists and for your ultimate wildlife holiday please click on the chat button.

Book With Confidence

Native Afrika Voyages is a member of Tour Operators Society of Kenya ( TOSK) . TOSK is one of the key tourism trade associations in Kenya, representing the interests of over 400 of the most experienced professional tour operators. As a member, our services have been checked and are bound by the Code of Conduct to provide the highest possible quality of service to their clients.

Travel in times of uncertainity

We are in this together, Our response to the Covid-19 pandemic

• Travel Insurance
• Easy Payments
• Flying Doctors
• Our Guarantees
• Responsible Travel
• When to visit Kenya?
• When to visit Uganda?

Let’s plan your dream trip together!

• 100% specialized in Africa
• Skilled advice - tailor made private safaris
• World class safari guides
• Great customer satisfaction for the best price

African Tours & Safaris

Make your travel dreams come true, discover kenya, discover uganda.

Amazing landscapes, stunning wildlife, Africa safaris, tropical beaches, vibrant cities, and a fascinating culture and people… the African continent has it all!

While most parts of the world have been visited by millions already, many parts of Africa are still unchartered territory. Think dust roads, internet-free zones, mud houses, traditional tribes, and miles of untamed nature. This makes the continent an adventurous place to travel to. At the same time, the national parks and lodges are completely up to date with delicious foods, comfortable beds, and WiFi.

A safari in Africa  is a once-in-a-lifetime holiday! Kenya especially is heaven on earth for nature lovers. It has over fifty national parks, game reserves, and conservancies. In Kenya, you experience an amazing African safari and subsequently relax at the world’s most beautiful beaches in Diani Beach . But also Tanzania has much to offer with the famous Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater and Zanzibar. And if your dream is to discover Uganda and its impressive mountain gorillas, you are also at the right place, because we also organize unique safaris in Uganda .

Best quality Africa safaris

Our name is Africa Safari Trips for a reason. We offer the most extensive range of private safari trips in East Africa! And we are happy to say that our guests always leave Africa with a suitcase full of unforgettable memories.

Our offices – and teams of locals and expats – are located in Nairobi (Kenya) and Kampala (Uganda). From Africa (with love), our expats arrange and oversee your journey from start to finish. See you soon in Africa!

Why go on safari with Africa Safari Trips?

Professional private guides, comfortable private jeeps, flexible travel plans, and the best customer experiences. Our trip preparation ensures that you can enjoy stress-free and worry-free. We are honestly the best choice for an unforgettable journey with the best service.

• Skilled advice – tailor-made private safaris
• World-class safari guides
• Private vehicle and great customer satisfaction for the best price

Get inspired

Discover and explore.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Africa with Africa Safari Trips. Our travel experts create your dream itinerary and our amazing guides know the difference between a good safari and an incredible safari. Our past travellers confirm: it’s an unforgettable experience! Come aboard for a remarkable journey through Africa 🌍

Great customer experiences

Discover the stories of Africa Safari Trips travelers. Click through and enjoy their wonderful experiences. Create your own adventure and explore Africa with us.

Get ready to be amazed by the fantastic excursions offered by Africa Safari Trips. Click through and explore all the possibilities.

• Things to do in Kenya
• Things to do in Uganda

National parks

Experience the national parks of Africa with our experienced guides. Each park gives a unique experience. Let yourself be amazed by the rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes that each African country has to offer.

• National parks in Kenya
• National parks in Uganda

Accommodations

Choose from our amazing accommodations during your journey through Africa. Whether you're looking for a luxurious lodge or a rustic camp, we have something for every budget. Click through and explore all the possibilities.

• Places to stay in Kenya
• Places to stay in Uganda

Professionalism, knowledge and friendliness

Your guide during the journey.

When going on safari in Africa, the guide and driver are crucial to ensuring that your journey is not only safe and comfortable, but also rich in adventure and knowledge. The guides know the country like no other and will take you to the most pristine spots. All you have to do is sit back and enjoy!

Let us create your tailor-made trip

Receive a free, no obligation quote, call an expert, our specialists are here to assist you.

• Mediathek jetzt auf
• TV-Programm
• Das große Backen
• Die Landarztpraxis
• Die Spreewaldklinik
• The Tribute
• 99 - Wer schlägt sie alle?
• Alle Sendungen
• Fit & Gesund
• Musik & Events

Tipps für eine einzigartige Reise

Wie du die passende safari findest - und was im koffer nicht fehlen darf.

• Aktualisiert: 30.08.2024
• Vera Motschmann

Begegnungen mit wilden Tieren, unendliche Weiten und Lodges in einzigartiger Natur: In Afrika wird Urlaub zum Abenteuer. Wie du die passende Safari findest und was im Reisekoffer nicht fehlen darf.

Du hast Lust auf noch mehr "SAT.1 Frühstücksfernsehen"? ➡ Schau dir jetzt auf Joyn die neuesten Clips an!

Möchtest du wissen, ob du Hotel, Aktivitäten und Mietwagen besser im Voraus oder vor deiner Safari buchen solltest? Im " SAT.1 Urlaubscheck! " geben wir dir die Antwort. Wir teilen die besten Upgrade-Tricks für eine Luxusreise zum Schnäppchenpreis  und stellen dir die besten Alternativen für Schlechtwetter vor. Außerdem testen wir in der großen Handgepäck-Challenge , ob eine Woche Mallorca-Urlaub nur mit einem Rucksack machbar ist! Wie du die perfekte  Safari planst , gibt es jetzt zusammen mit deiner ultimativen Checkliste .

Wohin soll die Safari gehen?

In Afrika gibt es viele Naturschauspiele zu entdecken. So verschieden die Nationalparks in den einzelnen Ländern sind, ist auch die Tierwelt in den einzelnen Regionen unterschiedlich. Außerdem gibt es viele verschiedene Safari-Arten in Afrika. Um die richtige Safari für dich zu finden, solltest du vorher entscheiden, was du dort gerne sehen möchtest.

Auf einen Blick:

• Tansania: Als absolutes Highlight sind hier vor allem die großen Tierwanderungen zu erleben.
• Südafrika: Eines der beliebtesten Länder in Afrika, das vor allem für Familien mit Kindern geeignet ist. Das Land bietet eine riesige Vielfalt an Tieren, Natur und Erlebnissen.
• Namibia: Ideal für maßgeschneiderte Individualreisen und Hobbyfotograf:innen. Neben spektakulärer Natur und wilden Tieren können Reisende hier auch Kultur erleben. Auch für Afrika-Einsteiger:innen geeignet.
• Botswana: Wenig Touristen, viel unberührte Natur und spektakuläre Naturerlebnisse. Botswana gilt als Geheimtipp unter den Safaris, ist allerdings sehr teuer.

Im Clip: Rangerin filmt Elefanten-Geburt während einer Safari

Die reise nicht alleine planen.

Für einen Safari-Urlaub in Afrika ist eine gute Organisation das A und O. Selbst wenn du schon viele Fernreisen auf eigene Faust geplant und organisiert hast, solltest du dich besser in einem  Reisebüro , das auf Afrika-Safaris spezialisiert ist, beraten lassen. Sie helfen dir nicht nur bei der Wahl des Landes und der Safari, sondern können dich auch bezüglich der besten Reisezeit, Flüge und Gefahren wie Malaria bestens beraten.

Gut zu wissen: Eine Safari solltest du rechtzeitig - ungefähr ein Jahr vorher - planen, da es eine hohe Nachfrage gibt. Besonders individuelle Touren und kleine Lodges sind schnell ausgebucht.

Die besten Tipps für deine Reise

Traumurlaub finden und Geld sparen

Urlaub all-inclusive: Was du bei Pauschalreisen beachten solltest

Ab in den Urlaub mit einem Rundum-Sorglos-Paket: Eine Pauschalreise ist nicht nur praktisch, sie erspart einem auch Zeit und Ärger und hält die Kosten im Rahmen. 10 Tipps für deine Buchung.

Packliste: Was sollte man auf eine Safari mitnehmen?

• Das richtige Gepäckstück: Safaris beginnen im Outback, in das man meist mit einer kleinen Cessna fliegt, die Platz für etwa zehn Personen bietet. Das Gepäckstück sollte deshalb nicht mehr als zehn Kilo wiegen und knautschbar sein, wie ein Weekender aus Stoff oder Leder.
• Die passende Kleidung: Für eine Safari-Tour eignet sich eine lange Hose oder Bermuda-Shorts, ein Tank-Top oder T-Shirt, ein Leinenhemd sowie eine dünnere Jacke, die nach dem Zwiebelprinzip einfach an- und ausgezogen werden können. Außerdem brauchst du trittsichere Boots und einen Sonnenhut. Dazu kommen Kleidungsstücke, die in Lodges außerhalb der Safari getragen werden, wie ein schönes Kleid oder ein längerer legerer Rock. Auch bequeme Sandalen und ein Bikini dürfen mit in die Reisetasche. Die Outfits sollten möglichst in natürlichen Farben sein – von Beige bis Olive und Braun. Dunkle Farben wie Schwarz und Dunkelblau ziehen Mücken an.
• Accessoires: Für die Safari einen Rucksack sowie eine gute Sonnenbrille, einen Feldstecher (Fernglas), Kamera und Objektive, eine Taschenlampe und ein Taschenmesser einpacken.

Tipps für deinen Urlaub: So findest du die besten Last-Minute-Angebote und erkennst unseriöse Mietwagen-Anbieter . Die besten Ziele für Urlaub mit Freund:innen , die romantischsten Reiseziele für Paare und geniale Ideen für den Single-Urlaub!

Auch wichtig: Rechte und Pflichten: Das ist bei Reiserücktritt zu beachten .

Das muss mit!

Capsule Wardrobe für die Ferien

Clever Reisen: 5 Regeln für deine Urlaubsgarderobe

Du hast deine Ferien mit dem "SAT.1 Urlaubscheck!" gebucht und es geht bald los? In den Urlaubskoffer sollen natürlich nur Lieblings-Outfits. Übergepäck wollen wir aber nicht mitschleppen. Die Lösung: Eine minimalistische Capsule Wardrobe, mit der du Platz im Koffer sparst.

Was gehört in die Reiseapotheke?

Folgende Dinge sollest du im Safari-Rucksack immer dabei haben:t

• Verbandsmaterial wie Pflaster, Mullbinden, Wundauflagen
• Desinfektionsspray
• Insektenschutzmittel
• Sonnenschutzmittel
• Pinzette, Schere

Außerdem an Wundcremes, Elastikbinden, Fieberthermometer, Schmerztabletten und Après Sun denken, die kannst du in der Lodge aufbewahren. Medikamente immer in einer kleinen Kühl- oder Isoliertasche transportieren, da sie die Wärme meist nicht vertragen.

Wichtig: Informiere dich vorab, welche Impfungen für dein Reiseziel notwendig sind!

Mehr News und Videos

Radfahren ohne Schmerzen: Was einen bequemen Sattel ausmacht!

Urlaub mit den Kumpels: 5 Top-Reiseziele für einen Kurztrip

Spontaner Camping-Urlaub: die ultimative Packliste

So findest du die besten Schnäppchen für den Sommer-Urlaub

FKK-Urlaub in Deutschland: Diese 7 Dinge solltest du beachten

Urlaub richtig planen: Deine Rechte und Pflichten bei einem Reiserücktritt

Reisen mit Hund: So wird der Urlaub mit deinem Vierbeiner ganz entspannt

Abenteuer für den Klimaschutz: Mit Rad und Ruderboot über den Atlantik

"SAT.1 Urlaubscheck!" - So steht der Kreuzfahrt nichts mehr im Wege!

Diese Medikamente gehören unbedingt in die Reiseapotheke