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Are Safaris Safe?: Safety Tips and Common Mistakes to avoid on an African Safari

Going on an African Safari seems so simple, but it can be dangerous. There are some common mistakes to avoid on an African safari , but I can help you be prepared.

There are several things many people don’t think about when it comes to going on a safari. Simple mistakes that you might not think about and tricks that will help you have a more pleasant experience whether you’re going to South Africa , Kenya , or anywhere in between.

I’ve also put together a list of safari safety tips as well!

Mistakes to Avoid on an African Safari

Table of Contents

Are Safaris Safe?

The world as a whole is an unsafe place. Some areas are more or less safe than others, but if taking the proper precautions most of the time you can be safe.

So when is comes to the question, “ Are safaris safe ?” The answer is: If you keep safety concerns in mind and listen to your guide an African safari can be safe.

Additionally, a little mistake in the African bush could put you or your group in danger. This isn’t the Lion King and wild animals are not friendly.

With the help of some amazing bloggers I’ve put together this list to help you make the most of your African safari and avoid some common mistakes.

Safari Safety Tips

Stay in your car all the times.

There is no reason why you should get out of the safari vehicle while out in the bush. African safari animals, especially the Big 5 , are extremely dangerous and can be hiding in bushes and trees.

Don’t stick anything out of the car

No matter if you’re on the move or the car has come to a complete stop don’t stick anything out of the vehicle. Sticking something out the window can

The most dangerous animal is the mosquito

Of all the animals you’ll see on an African safari the mosquito is the most dangerous as they can carry malaria. Malaria is an acute febrile illness spread to humans by the bite of female Anopheles mosquitoes. It is a life-threatening disease but is also preventable and curable.

To prevent Malaria you can either take medication prescribed to you by a doctor or receive the malaria vaccination. My biggest safari safety tip is to talk to your primary care physician before you leave for your trip to see what is right for you.

Stay downwind

If you are on a walking safari stay downwind from the animals to keep them from catching your scent. You’ll have a guide with you, so make sure you listen to them. They know the area and the animals. They’ll keep you downwind so you stay safe on your safari.

Walk away slowly

This is not Jurassic Park and you should never run. Running triggers a preditor’s natural instinct to chase its prey. If you run you have the potential to become prey.

Don’t swim in rivers or lakes

Rivers in lakes, even if they look safe from the water’s edge have hidden dangers beneath the surface. Crocodiles and hippos, which are the most dangerous animals in the world, lurk in the rivers and lakes of the African continent.

Entering the water is extremely dangerous, so it’s best to stay away. This is one of the most common mistakes to avoid on an African safari.

Stay in your tent at night

If you are tent camping or staying at a tented camp stay in your tent at night. Many predators hunt at night so it’s safest to stay inside. Most lodges, camps, and camping groups will have security. If you need to go outside at night during your African safari, ask for help.

Common Mistakes to Avoid on an African Safari

Don’t call the animals on an african safari, submitted by jessy from planet pilgrims.

When you’ve never been on an African safari it is sometimes very hard to imagine the adventure. With many of us never being exposed to wild animals, we often think that animals in the wild react the same way as our domesticated cats and dogs, right? This is an African safari mistake many people make.

So whenever we see that first zebra or the majestic giraffe what do we do? We think we must CALL them to get them to come closer to us. WRONG!

Nothing is less true, wild animals are WILD. They find their own food so there’s really no incentive for them to come and greet us and listen to our whistles, clicking of our tong or calling them by name. These scenes often became quite hilarious as I had to deal with them a lot when I was tour guiding throughout African on safari.

Even though the game rangers would always give a very clear brief: When seeing animals, be as quiet as possible and when they’re very close, don’t even move. The smallest interruption might chase them away. Wild animals basically eat, sleep and reproduce. That’s all they do.

Did you know a lion sleeps about 20 hours a day? They’re so tired after hunting and it takes so much of the energy that they need to rest afterwards. There’s no way a lion will come closer when you call them. So when you go on safari, be quiet, don’t make any noise and enjoy the incredible scenery.

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Don’t leave food unattended on an African Safari

Submitted by felicity from baby vine.

My first safari experience was a camping one, and I was relatively new to camping, let alone with wild animals about. It came as a shock to me when the safari safety tips and rules were read out to us on the first night.

We had our tents set up in a U-shape as a protective barrier for any animals that came wandering and were told to always go to the bathroom in pairs and to bring a torch with us – if we saw an animal, we were to shine the light in their eyes and back away slowly.

And finally, we learnt a valuable lesson: don’t leave any food unattended.

My friend and I had packed plenty of snacks to get us through the trip, but soon realized they were more likely to get us eaten, rather than the other way around. While you might be thinking Lions and Cheetahs, this is not actually what we were warned about. Instead, it’s the bush pigs.

Apparently they smell food from miles away and with tear open your tent to get to it, whether you are in there or not. We were asked to keep all our food locked up on the bus and to make sure we thoroughly cleaned up after ourselves after each and every meal. On previous camps they’d experienced the bush pigs ripping open the tent of two girls who woke to their food being eaten next to their heads – that was certainly an experience I didn’t want to have!

Don’t forget a tri-pod on an African Safari

Submitted by chris from being a nomad.

Around 15 years ago, I went on my first trip to Africa. As well as a chance to climb Kilimanjaro and scuba dive in Zanzibar, a safari also came packaged with our itinerary. This involved a guided photography tour through the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti in a Jeep.

There were six of us within the tour, all with fancy cameras and zoom lenses. But I stood out of the crowd because I lacked one piece of equipment, a full-size or travel tripod.

I’d taken zoom photography before – in Borneo. But I’d never had a chance to get as close to animals with the camera and lens. I use a 300mm zoom on an APS-C camera, effectively taking it up to 400mm.

But I was quick to learn that the closer you zoomed in, the more you had to compensate for camera shake. This was exacerbated by the fact that many of the best shots would occur while the jeep was moving. The result: after the first day, a lot of my shots came out blurred.

Fortunately, I had a Gorillapod with me. A Gorillapod is one of those mini-tripods with bendy legs you can wrap around things for stability. So, on the second day of the trip, I attached this to the sunroof of the jeep. It didn’t stabilize things completely, but it really helped to take better shots.

Though now, when I try to sell some of these shots on Adobe Stock, they get rejected because of blur. So, lesson learned. If you’re going on safari to take fantastic photographs, it will pay off in the long run to bring the best equipment you possibly can. And this includes a sturdy tripod.

Trust me, if you later decide to sell those photos, the investment will pay off.

What to wear on an African Safari

Submitted by aga from worldering around.

One of the important aspects of safari safety is to know  what to wear on the safari . It’s not about being fashionable but most importantly about functional clothes, that will protect you from the sun and insects. This is a common mistake when going on an African safari.

During game drives you will be sitting or standing in the car, so make sure that the clothes you wear are comfortable and breathable. You don’t want to sweat loads in the hot sun or freeze on the chilly mornings –  layer up and be prepared for both. Layers are a good idea to keep your luggage light but allow you to stay warm.

Proper clothes are meant to protect you from the sun, the African dust, and at the same time help you to blend in with nature. Opt for light and breathable fabrics and neutral colors. Earth tones like brown, khaki, beige are a good idea. I would avoid very light colors like white, as they will quickly get covered by the red African dust which is impossible to wash off. Also, avoid dark blue and black clothing, as it is said to attract the ever annoying tse tse fly. Light colored fabrics are perfect for the evenings in camp or the resort, as they don’t attract mosquitoes.

Don’t forget your hat and sunscreen. Your African safari vehicle may or may not have a top and lack of a hat and sunscreen can result in serious sunburn or even heat stroke. A polarized pair of sunglasses and sturdy, but breathable shoes are also a good idea.

Book your African Safari Accommodation in Advance

Submitted by jenny from travelynn family.

If you are a free-spirited soul who loves to travel without a schedule, moving from place to place at a whim, you may be frustrated to know that for many of Africa’s big safari parks, you need to book accommodation in advance. And not just a day or so in advance. For places such as Etosha in Namibia, or Kruger in South Africa , or Chobe in Botswana, you need to book weeks, sometimes months in advance, evening if you’re camping.

For many, a trip to Africa and a visit to one of the big game parks, is a once in a lifetime experience. If you haven’t booked accommodation and there’s no availability, you will be allowed into the park for the day, but you must be out of the park gates by sunset. This is such a shame as one of the best ways to experience a safari is on a nighttime game drive, and also to get out on a drive at sunrise when many animals are at their most active.

However, there are many smaller safari parks in Africa where you can turn up on the day and find a camping spot or lodge for the night. These parks will often provide a more intimate experience with wildlife. Plus they usually won’t be as busy. Although, if you want to tick off the ‘ big 5 ‘, your best bet is to head to one of the bigger parks. They often have a larger population of wildlife. If you are on safari with kids , these bigger parks often have a swimming pool, perfect after an early morning game drive.

Listen to your Guides and Camp Staff while on an African Safari

This last little tip is from me, and it is so important to remember and is one of the most important safari safety tips I can give you.

Your Safari Guide and Camp Staff, work in the top African Safari destinations , and know what they are doing. When they tell you to do something, please listen.

Something as simple as taking a buddy to the bathroom with you if you’re on a camp safari can seem silly. However, if you’re by yourself an animal could stalk up to you and grab you, and no one would know.

At resorts, you’ll be told not to leave the dining or lounge area at night without a member of the security team escorting you. A 2-minute walk can go bad very quickly, so just follow the rules for your own safety.

I was on an African safari in Tanzania a few years ago and our guide told us to be completely silent when our vehicle was close to animals. One woman, sitting in the front seat let out a loud “Ekkk,” when a large male elephant trumpeted. The animal stopped in his tracks and turned abruptly toward us, and faked a charge. Luckily, turning off at the last second. We were very lucky, but needless to say, we were all pretty angry at that woman for not listening.

Know the Lingo

There are so many terms used in the safari world and not knowing them before heading out into the African bush is a mistake. Here are a few safari terms you should know before you go:

• Game Drive : When you go out in the safari vehicle to view animals in the bush. Game Drives take place in the mornings and evenings whene animals are most active.
• The Big Five : The safari term, “Big Five” is an old hunting term to name the five most difficult and most dangerous animals to hunt. It is less used for hunting and more so for safari goers.
• Sun Downer : A sunset drink usually had while on an evening Game Drive accompanied by a light snack.
• Walking Safari : A Walking Safari is a Safari on foot where a guide takes a small group of people around the Bush pointing out flora and fauna difficult to see from a safari vehicle.

What are some other safari safety tips You can add to this list? Let me know in the comments.

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7 thoughts on “Are Safaris Safe?: Safety Tips and Common Mistakes to avoid on an African Safari”

As someone who has not been lucky enough to go on a safari yet these are really helpful tips. Your photos are incredible, it looks like such an amazing experience

Safari is one of the best travel experiences! When you go on one have the ebst time.

Great tips, especially the reminders that these are wild animals. Will come back to this when I finally make it on safari!

Let me know if you have any questions about going on safari. I recently went with Yellow Zebra Safaris and they were amazing. Reach out to them if you need help with planning.

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Good tips to read prior. I read these before traveling to Kenya and Tanzania. I went in Oct 2023 and it was hot, and never wore layers. I wished I had more shorts vrs pants. I did take 2 pair of zip off pants which I wore as shorts. Our tented camps were permanent ones in Serengeti and Tarangire but we were walked to our tents and every night I heard the hyenas howling. Pretty cool. I treated all of my clothes for mosquitoes and never had an issue, plus sprayed myself dusk and early morning. Teetsee flies were biting but not the infected ones in Western Serengeti and Tarangire areas.

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Is Going on Safari Dangerous?

Tips on how to stay safe

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Every safari has an element of danger; that's what makes it exciting. While many of the animals you'll encounter can be dangerous , the four that you really have to watch out for are—elephant, lion, buffalo , and hippo (add crocodiles to that list if you're near water).

Most safari operators and guides at the various lodges and game reserves will stress basic precautions you need to take while game viewing. It will also help if you follow basic safari etiquette. If you are on safari in smaller, more remote game parks or encounter wildlife outside of game parks, here are some general rules to follow:

If You Are in a Vehicle

• Always stay in your car. When driving in a game park remain in your vehicle. Only get out at designated "hides" and follow the rules that will be posted. There have been several fatalities that occurred because a hapless tourist has wandered out of their vehicle, camera in hand, to get a closer shot of an elephant or lion. It may sound silly, but it happens.
• Don't stand up or stick anything out of the car . Many safari vehicles are open-topped, and the wildlife is generally accustomed to these. But, if you stand up or wave something around on the side, some animals will get annoyed and consequently aggressive. You also have to remember that poaching is rife in many areas, and anything that looks like a gun can trigger a very nasty response from a wild animal.
• Drive slowly and carefully . During the wet season, the grass can get quite high, and it's not always possible to tell when a large buffalo or elephant will decide to step into the middle of the road. Remember, you have to stop if this happens. Buffalos and elephants are not in the least bit afraid or impressed by you or your car.
• Keep your windows up . If you are in a car with windows, it's better to keep them closed. You could end up being harassed by baboons as you drive through the more popular game parks. They are so habituated to cars they are not afraid to leap upon them and dent the roof. You don't want one inside your vehicle.

If You Are on Foot

If you are on a walking safari, you will no doubt be briefed on safety by your guides. But, there are times when you'll be walking in Africa and encounter wildlife without a guide. You could run into elephants even in the middle of town. Baboons are also a menace in many places and a lot larger than you think. Here are some basic tips if you encounter wildlife eye to eye:

• Try and stay downwind from the animal . If the animal catches your scent, it will know you are there, and you have no idea whether this will make it angry or afraid.
• If an animal you approach looks hostile, make sure you are not in the way of its escape route . Give the animal a clear birth and don't make any noise to aggravate the situation further.
• Walk away slowly . If you encounter an animal that doesn't like your presence move back slowly and quietly.
• Avoid swimming in rivers or lakes unless you are absolutely sure there are no hippos or crocodiles. Hippos are the most dangerous of all the big animals. They feed on the banks of the river, and if they sense danger will charge and attack whatever lies in their path in order to get back to the safety of the water.
• If you are camping out in the open, always make sure you have something covering you even if it's just a mosquito net. Hyenas like to check out camps for leftover food and are especially attracted to protruding objects, so keep your feet and nose inside that tent or net.
• Always wear boots and socks when walking around the bush . There are plenty of venomous snakes and scorpions around that could bite you.
• Don't walk around at night in areas where you know there is wildlife present that can be potentially harmful to you. That includes the beaches and around lakes where hippos graze between tents on a camping safari. Also, be careful in towns. Hyenas wander around freely in the capital city of Lilongwe in Malawi, so always be cautious.

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• Is it safe for a safari in Kenya?
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Is it safe for a safari in Kenya? – Is it safe to go on safari in Kenya? – Is it safe to visit Kenya in 2022

Is it safe to safari in Kenya? – Nairobi city the capital of Kenya has a longstanding reputation as 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 mostly associated with the city center. Kenya’s superb safari destinations are safe to visit and its warm, hospitable people will make your safari memorable for a lifetime.

All our Great Adventure Safaris Experts are permanently based in East Africa, are well-trained, and have extensive first-hand experience with the destinations they recommend. Being based in East Africa means we continuously have members of the team discovering new destinations and experiences to ensure they are safe and meet our clients’ expectations.

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 is 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 and the game reserves and other rural areas.

Kenya’s authorities deal with the international terror threat in much the same way as other allies of the United States of America and Britain. You will find strict security at Airports and visible policing in public places like shopping malls and outdoor markets, ensuring it is safe to visit Kenya.

The country’s impressive military is active along the eastern border with Somalia. It is important to know that tourists do not visit eastern Kenya at all. You will explore the famous game reserves far away on the opposite side of the country, along Kenya’s western border with Tanzania. This area is so stable and peaceful that the national border separating Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserv e from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is marked by simple stone cairns. You can see from the Masai Mara National Reserve into the Serengeti National Park and, of course, millions of wildebeest walk this way every year on their annual migration.

Kenya, like many other democracies across the globe, occasionally goes through short periods of political change. This is centered in Nairobi, far from the country’s sensational safari areas and National Park. In fact, in some instances you will fly out of Nairobi immediately after landing, heading to the Masai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli, Samburu, or Laikipia National Parks.

Many visitors have hassle-free holidays and so should you if you follow the common-sense 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 is a strong deterrent to casual light fingers.

Never leave valuables (cash, mobile phones, electronic devices, etc) lying around openly 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.

If you’re interested in a Kenya safari, contact us at Great Adventure Safaris and get in touch with one of our Safari Experts to help tailor-make an itinerary that fits your time, budget, and interests

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Protect Your Trip »

A first-timer's guide to planning a safari in kenya.

Experts share practical tips for preparing for a successful safari.

A First-Timer's Guide to Planning a Safari in Kenya

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Before you begin your once-in-a-lifetime African adventure, make sure you talk to your physician about recommended travel vaccines and pack strategically with plenty of layers.

You've been dreaming about going on safari in Kenya ever since the credits rolled in "Out of Africa," and now you're ready to embark on the trip of your dreams . To make sure you get the most out of the country's spectacular wildlife and jaw-dropping landscapes, here is the information you'll need, so that the only surprises you'll encounter are ones that you'll love.

An Average Day on Safari

While every accommodation is unique, most camps follow a similar schedule. Led by a wildlife guide, you'll go on at least two game drives per day with other guests for three to four hours per ride. Along the way, you'll stop at picturesque locations to stretch your legs, grab a snack and revel in incredible scenery. In the middle of the day, when predators and other species are hiding in the shade, you'll be in camp relaxing. Expect to take your meals at camp, though dining in the wild is also common. At night, you'll cozy up to a warm fire and mingle with the other guests to share your day's adventures before letting the sounds of the bush serenade you to sleep.

Susan Portnoy

(Susan Portnoy)

Activities and Extra Costs

Game drives are the crux of most safaris, but there are plenty of other activities for you to enjoy, from guided walks and visits to tribal villages to hot air balloon rides over the Masai Mara or camel safaris in the Northern Frontier. Some activities are included in your daily rate, but "it's always a good idea to know ahead of time what's included in your stay, as many options may come with an additional price tag," says Linda Friedman, CEO of Custom Safaris. Also, keep in mind that you may be charged for park entry fees, laundry, premium liquors and other amenities.

Wildlife-Viewing Opportunities

"Kenya is known not only for its massive concentrations of game but also for its vast open plains. You can spot and track wildlife from a fair distance and there is almost always something to see and some sort of interaction between species," says Andrew Beck, a professional wildlife photographer and a co-founder of Wild Eye, a photographic safari company. There are also certain areas that contain larger concentrations of specific species. If you love elephants, consider Amboseli where herds can reach 100 members or more. And from August to October, the Masai Mara plays host to millions of wildebeest during the Migration, while species like the Grevy Zebra, Somali Ostrich, reticulated giraffe and the gerenuk can only be found in the north.

Guides know all about animal behavior and the area in which your camp is located, as well as the location of recent sightings, dens and kills. Still, they can't make animals appear on cue, so stay open to what the day brings. In the bush, the world can change on a dime; with a little patience, you'll have the time of your life.  

Family  

Taking your child on safari can be one of the best ways to instill a lifelong love of wildlife and respect for the environment, and in the last few years, more companies are enticing families with larger tents or villas and special programs designed with families in mind. As Friedman points out, it's important to ask up front if children are allowed or if there is a minimum age requirement. If your child is very young, you may be required to reserve a private vehicle.  

Photography

A DSLR camera and longer lenses are best for wildlife photography , but if that's not your objective, Beck suggests getting a point-and-shoot with the maximum optical zoom. "Don't even bother looking at the digital zoom feature as this is essentially a crop of the image," he says. It's also a smart idea to bring plenty of memory cards. There is nothing worse than having to delete images from your camera on the fly to make room for your next shot.

When it comes to the bush, safety at any lodging is top priority. Upon arrival, you'll be given all the dos and don'ts and it's important to follow directions. While safaris are safe, Friedman cautions, "These are wild animals, not kittens."

Preparing for Your Safari

Paperwork  You'll need a passport that is valid for at least six months prior to your arrival. Your passport must contain a minimum of two blank pages for stamps. You'll also need a $50 visa . You can apply for a visa online at Evisa.go.ke or you can wait until you arrive at the airport in Kenya.  

Vaccinations

According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are no mandatory vaccinations for travel to Kenya though you may be required to get a yellow fever shot if your travels take you through endemic zones prior to your arrival. The agency also advocates being up to date on immunizations for Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies and meningitis. Additionally, you may want to consider pills for malaria. Make sure to speak to your physician about your travel plans to determine what you need. 

Pack enough light casual attire for a long weekend and take advantage of the same-day laundry service (weather permitting) that the majority of camps provide. It's chilly in the morning and evening, but hot in the afternoon, so dress in layers. A good sunscreen is also a must-have, in addition to a wide brim hat and a good pair of polarized sunglasses. And flip-flops are fine for the jeep, but also pack a pair of comfortable sneakers.  

Small commuter planes are the main mode of transport into the bush and all the domestic carriers are sticklers about baggage restrictions. Bags must be soft, no longer than 26 inches and wheel-free, and the total luggage weight per person cannot exceed 15 kilograms (33 pounds), including your carry-on. If you go over the limit, your best-case scenario would be paying a fee, but in a worst-case scenario, you may have to buy a separate ticket for your baggage or wait until there is a plane with space available.

Money Matters

Kenya shillings is the local currency. You can pick up shillings at the airport upon arrival, but U.S. dollars are also widely accepted. Keep in mind, accommodations will accept major credit cards such as Visa or MasterCard (American Express is not as widely accepted) for amenities or gift shop purchases, but you should bring cash for gratuity as well as extras, such as cultural visits to local villages or souvenirs like handmade jewelry or other trinkets from local artisans.

Tips are not mandatory, but they are customary. Your guide should be at the top of your list, and according to Friedman, you should plan to pay $15-25 per person per day. If you have a large family, less per person is acceptable. If you want to distribute gratuity to all staff members, most camps have a staff box where guests can leave a gratuity of $5-10 per person per day. When in doubt, ask a manager for advice, Friedman says.

Tags: Travel , Kenya , Travel Tips

About En Route

Practical advice on the art of traveling smarter with tips, tricks and intel from En Route's panel of experts.

Contributors have experience in areas ranging from family travel, adventure travel, experiential travel and budget travel to hotels, cruises and travel rewards and include Amy Whitley , Claire Volkman , Holly Johnson , Marsha Dubrow , Lyn Mettler , Sery Kim , Kyle McCarthy , Erica Lamberg , Jess Moss , Sheryl Nance-Nash , Sherry Laskin , Katie Jackson , Erin Gifford , Roger Sands , Steve Larese , Gwen Pratesi , Erin Block , Dave Parfitt , Kacey Mya , Kimberly Wilson , Susan Portnoy , Donna Tabbert Long and Kitty Bean Yancey .

Edited by Liz Weiss .

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

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Kenya Travel Guide Kenya

Safety & security.

• Parks & Reserves
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​Safety & Security – Kenya

Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of many Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the guide to Kenya.

Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of the Lonely Planet guide to Kenya.

Anthony is the author of the Lonely Planet guide to Kenya.

In our opinion, Kenya is generally safe to visit. The tourist industry is very established and visitors are very well looked after. Several governments have advised against traveling to remote border areas, but tour operators will only take you to places that are considered safe. For more info on these travel warnings, see the advisory links below.

There is crime in big cities such as Nairobi and Mombasa, but most issues can be avoided by following basic safety precautions. You should stay clear of political demonstrations. More than a million tourists visit Kenya every year, and the vast majority of visits are trouble-free.

Below are tips on staying safe in Kenya.

Staying Safe on Wildlife Viewing Activities

• Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions

Staying Safe in Cities & Towns

• Cities & Urban Areas: Safety Precautions

Other Tips on Staying Safe

• Malaria & Vaccinations – Kenya
• General Travel Safety Precautions

Governments' Travel Advice

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Safari Tours to Kenya

4-Day Masai Mara Luxury Safari Tour

$1,782 to $1,980 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Nairobi (End)

Madukha Tours and Safaris

4.7 /5  –  26 Reviews

4-Day Taste of Kenya - Mid-Range

$1,100 to $1,590 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Nairobi (End)

Spirit of Kenya

4.9 /5  –  483 Reviews

5-Day Masai Mara-Lake Naivasha- Amboseli Safari

$1,309 pp (USD)

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Naivasha (Naivasha) , Amboseli NP, Nairobi (End)

Beacon Safaris

4.9 /5  –  265 Reviews

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!

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Safari in Kenya

Kenya's best safari reserves and camps.

Stuart Butler

• In this guide
• Samburu, Buffalo Springs & Shaba

Meru National Park

Lake nakuru national park, amboseli national park.

• Nairobi National Park
• Off the beaten track

Kenya besides safari

• Where to go
• Need to know
• Itinerary planning
• Hidden gems
• Conservancies
• How to plan & book

Kenya is the original home of the safari and it’s still one of the finest safari destinations in Africa . I've been going on safari in Kenya for decades, as a travel journalist and guidebook author writing about safari, conservation and life among the Maasai tribes.

The main thing I've learned: there's so much more to Kenya than the mainstream safari industry of luxury camps and the famed “big five” (so named because they were the prize targets of colonial–era hunters).

The country proudly boasts of an impressive network of protected spaces made up of 65 national parks and reserves as well as dozens of private and community conservancies. Together these cover a huge proportion of Kenya’s diverse landscapes and provide a home for animals as large as an elephant and as tiny as an elephant shrew.

Some parks, such as the Masai Mara and Amboseli , are rightly world famous. Other parks, such as Meru National Park or Kakamega Forest Reserve, barely make a blip on the mainstream safari circuit but are every bit as rewarding (and much quieter!) then the big name parks and reserves.

Kenya has a world class safari tourism industry with excellent safari operators catering to all budgets and a diverse portfolio of safari lodges and camps. All you need to decide is when and where to go – and that's where my guide comes in. Dig in and Safari njema! – (Have a nice trip!)

featured kenya safaris

Enchanted Kenyan Safari

Samburu, Rhinos and Mara Safari

Affordable Masai Mara Safari

Close encounters with a herd of elephants in Kenya's Masai Mara

The best safaris in Kenya

Kenya’s most popular – and some underrated – safari highlights.

Don't be swayed by the Masai Mara's magnetic pull. There are many hidden gems to be discovered in Kenya: here are a few of my top recommendations.

Masai Mara National Reserve

Mara north conservancy, ol pejeta conservancy, samburu game reserve, tsavo east & west national parks, loita hills, kakamega forest reserve, aberdare national park, lamu island.

Elsa’s Kopje

This is the best lodge in what is, for me, one of the best safari parks in Kenya. Named after Elsa the lion, of Born Free Fame, the lodge sits on an outcrop with simply incredible views over Meru. Owned by Kenya-based Elewana Collection, it’s undeniably pricey – rooms start at around USD $950 per night and climb steeply from there – but worth a night or two if your budget can stretch that far. If that’s beyond your means I can also recommend Meru Camp and there are cheaper options in the nearby town of Maua.

Witness the migration river crossings – but expect crowds!

The wildebeest migration is one of the world’s greatest natural phenomena, and watching the herds dodge hungry crocodiles as they surge across the Mara River is a staple of Kenya safari. The migration moves into the Masai Mara from Tanzania’s Serengeti between June and October. This is by far the busiest time and place of the year, so expect crowds. If you’d rather see the migration untroubled by crowds, I recommend you look at Tanzania instead.

Denise Carnihan

I can highly recommend Maili Saba. It has a picturesque location overlooking the Great Rift Valley and volcano region, with lovely permanent tents each with en-suites and balcony, and all very nicely decorated. There is a communal pool and outside gazebos for relaxing. The main dining room and lounging area is stunning with striking cathedral ceiling and beautiful decor. The food is absolutely outstanding and the staff are warm, friendly and go out of their way to assist their guests. The first time I visited was a complete surprise organised by my Kenyan partner, and I've included it in our tour itineraries ever since.

Nashulai Maasai Conservancy

One of the great success stories of Kenya safari has been the emergence of networks of conservancies, usually adjacent to the better known national parks. These are community-run or privately-operated protected areas, run for the benefit of wildlife and local communities. In the Masai Mara, the Nashulai Maasai Conservancy is particularly interesting, as it’s the only one that was 100% established by local Maasai and the only one where the Maasai remain in their homes within the conservancy. I can also highly recommend Mara North, Naboisho, and Ol Dereski; you’ll likely have an amazing time in any of them.

Offbeat Mara

Mara North is perhaps the best known conservancy in the Masai Mara, and Offbeat Mara is one of my favourite camps in the entire place. It's a small, un-showy camp of just seven tents including two family tents. In addition to the standard game drives you can do night drives, guided bush walks, horse riding, hot air balloon flights and even do some Maasai running coaching!

If you’ve ever wondered what the hide of a rhino feels like, wanted to experience a safari at night or dreamed of running (or riding) in the wild, open air of a safari reserve, head to Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The conservancy is in the Laikipia region, at the foothills of Mount Kenya. The sanctuary is the largest in East Africa to host black rhino, as well as the world’s last two remaining white northern rhino. Ol Pejeta is also the only place in Kenya where you can see chimpanzees. Conservation is at its core, with several experiences available for intrepid safari-goers who want to do more than just watch the animals.

Those looking to get their hands dirty can join one of the one or two-week volunteer programmes and learn wildlife research and tracking, veterinary care and more of what goes on behind the scenes. The conservancy has several accommodation options from simple cottages to basic campsites and luxury tented eco-camps.

Campi ya Kanzi

If elephants are your thing, you can’t do much better than Amboseli where herds of these magnificent beasts graze in the shadow of the equally magnificent Mt. Kilimanjaro. By far the best place to stay is not in the park itself but 30km away at Campi ya Kanzi in the Kimana Community Wildlife Sanctuary, situated between Amboseli and Chyulu Hills. It’s a very high-end Maasai-run camp that was set up to aid the local community and conservation projects. Its excellent location means you can see wildlife in the conservancy, Amboseli and Chyulu all from one base.

Saruni Rhino Camp

This camp in the Sera Conservancy, just north of the Samburu Reserve in northern Kenya occupies a stunning location in the semi-desert. Their specialism is a thrilling rhino tracking walking safari, probably my favourite place to see rhinos in all Kenya. I spent five days here and by the end still couldn’t decide if coming within ten metres of the steamroller-like rhinos was thrilling or simply terrifying!

Kilaguni Serena Lodge

In Tsavo West most of the accommodation is fairly expensive (unless you have your own camping gear in which case there are three spartan public campgrounds). A reasonably-priced option is the Kilaguni Serena Lodge – it’s far from a budget offering but the Serena collection is generally pretty good value. If you have the budget to blow, Finch Hattons is the most exclusive camp in the park, with an eye watering price tag to match.

Best walking safari

In my opinion the best way to experience a safari is to ditch the 4X4 and explore on foot. With a good tracker-guide you’ll see all the little things you’d otherwise miss if you’re stuck in a vehicle all day. Walking is often forbidden within state-run national parks but is usually allowed, even encouraged, in conservancies. If I had to pick a favourite place for a walking safari in Kenya it’d be Loita Hills without question. Although not far from the Masai Mara, Loita Hills is barely visited by tourists despite boasting superb and varied scenery, a lovely climate, very different wildlife to the lower savannah plains, and fascinating interactions with very traditional Maasai culture.

Also, while Kenya doesn’t really compete with the multi-day Tanzania trekking scene, some organised trekking may be found here, as well as in the Aberdares and around Mt. Kenya.

Saruni Samburu

There’s only one lodge within the Kalama conservancy, immediately to the north of Samburu Reserve, and it’s likely going to be one of the most spectacular places you’ll ever stay. Built into, around and onto a huge granite outcrop, Saruni Samburu is almost invisible from a distance but the stunningly turned out rooms offer a cliff side view over what feels like half of northern Kenya.

Lewa Conservancy

Lewa, in the Laikipia plateau area, is perhaps the most famous of all Kenya’s conservancies. And for good reason: this is safari to order. Want to see a black rhino? No problem. One of the superb guides will manage to find one. Lions, cheetah, elephant. They are all found here in abundance.

And it’s not just the wildlife that’s outstanding. The landscape is cinematic in its scope. Rolling sun bleached grasslands, table flat acacia trees, meandering rivers and a backdrop of the glinting glaciers of Mt Kenya.

The other great thing about Lewa (and this is common to all the Laikipia area conservancies) is exclusivity. If you’re not a guest of one of the handful of lodges then you can’t go on a safari here.

Kenya’s safari hidden gem

Just north of the equator in far western Kenya, is Kakamega Forest — Kenya’s only tropical rainforest. The land here is wet, green and intensely cultivated with a mix of subsistence farming and large tea estates. In amongst all this though are a few pockets of the dense rainforests that once covered large parts of western Kenya.

The Kakamega Forest Reserve is a fine example of this kind of forest and interesting walking safaris here reveal bird and primate life that has more in common with the forests of Uganda and the Congo than anything you’ll see on safari in Kenya. Wander the forest’s network of trails and take in the huge variety of flora and fauna it supports, including hundreds of bird species, some of which are not found anywhere else.

In my opinion, Kakamega is one of the most delightful places in Kenya, but yet hardly any tourists know of its existence. It should be a must visit for any ornithologist or herpetologist. As well as birds, reptiles and primates, I found the visit to the old mine shaft to look for bats especially memorable.

Up close and personal with baboons

Laikipia is known for its rhino conservation, but my own personal highlight in this area wasn’t the rhinos. Rather it was the day I spent with a biologist in very close proximity to around 200 habituated baboons. Having a huge male baboon shove its way past you as it bares its teeth was an experience easily on a par with gorilla and chimpanzee encounters in East Africa. The other nice thing about this particular experience is that it doesn’t involve staying inside an expensive conservancy but rather you are hosted by a grassroots Maasai womens’ project. And hardly anyone – even other Kenyans – know about it!

Hiking in Aberdare National Park

A world away from the African safari image of savannah grasses and drooling sunsets, the Aberdares consists of two different ecosystems. A high, cold and often bleak moorland and, below that, dense tangled montane jungle.

The wildlife here is a little different and a little harder to spot. But elephants are very common as are big grumpy buffalo. There are also montane species you won’t see anywhere else including bongo antelope, bush pigs and melanistic leopard and serval.

Unusually among Kenyan national parks, you can also get out of the vehicle here and enjoy long, lonely hikes over the moorlands: I have really enjoyed the sensation of trudging across the bleak moorlands in cold afternoon drizzle while always keeping a beady eye out for roaming buffalo.

The park also has some history. In 1952, a young English lady named Elizabeth was staying at the famed Treetops Lodge here (today’s version is actually a reconstruction of the original) when it was announced that her father had died. And so it was, that on a remote Kenyan mountain slope, that young lady became Queen Elizabeth II. Many years later her eldest grandson, and future king, proposed to Kate Middleton in a small wooden fishing cabin in a spot not so far away from where his grandmother became Queen.

Post-safari beach time

If time allows I highly recommend you find a couple of days to wash away the safari dust on Kenya’s palm-fringed coastline. The country has many beautiful beach destinations but the standard itineraries tend to focus on Diani, south of Mombasa. My vote goes for the underrated Lamu archipelago, and in particular the old Swahili trading town of Lamu, which always leaves me enchanted.

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In a standard two week safari it’s perfectly possible — in fact I'd highly recommend — to explore three or four different protected areas. Ideally with each one offering a totally different habitat and set of wildlife inhabitants. If I had to pick a favourite, I'd probably vote for Meru National Park, but any of the following could feature on a Kenya safari.

Best for tranquil, crowd-free safaris

Meru, the country’s forgotten national park, is easily one of my favourite of all Kenya’s safari parks. This was once one of the most popular parks in the country but during the 1980s, when Kenya was going through a rough political patch and instability overwhelmed some parts of the country, Meru turned into a hotbed of poaching.

Security and stability have long since returned, yet somehow this park never returned to its former fame. But for those in the know – and that now includes you – Meru National Park is safari gold.

For the classic – if busy – Kenya safari

The very essence of an African safari landscape, the Masai Mara stretches along the Kenya-Tanzania border and forms the northern fringe of the greater Serengeti ecosystem (most of which is in Tanzania ).

This is the part of Kenya in which I have spent the most time (months and months if I added it all up), and was the scene of one of my best ever travel experiences. Some years ago a Maasai friend and I set out on a five week hike that took us across the entire Mara ecosystem. By day we walked alongside the wildlife and Maasai herders. By night we camped out under the stars and slept in traditional Maasai villages. An unforgettable adventure!

This is the place to see large prides of black-manned lions, bellowing elephants, grumpy buffalo and a pick ‘n’ mix box of antelope and gazelles. And that’s before we even touch on the smaller creatures and huge array of birds. But, above and beyond all else, the Mara is renowned for the spectacular wildebeest migration .

For elephants & Kilimanjaro views

Amboseli National Park is the postcard park of Kenya. This is where those photographs are taken of elephants with a backdrop of the (fast melting!) glaciers of Mt Kilimanjaro. I have spent many dreamy mornings parked under an acacia tree, a thermos of coffee in hand watching the rising sun tinge the snows of Kilimanjaro a pinky-red.

The elephants and the scenery are the real highlights of this park. In dry periods they flock here from miles around to quench their thirst in the swamps and pools that splash the dusty landscape in greens.

Another big reason to visit Amboseli is the chance to see conservation in action in the conservancies and other environmental and community projects surrounding the park.

For wetland safari & birdwatching

Just 5 kilometres from the big city of Nakaru, Lake Nakuru National Park’s accessibility makes it one of the most popular Kenya safari hotspots. It’s centred on the large Rift Valley soda lake of the same name, but also encompasses fringing grasslands, acacia woodlands and rocky escarpments.

The park is best known for its sometimes huge flocks of flamingos and a large rhino population. Back in the 1990’s, Lake Nakuru was the first place where I saw a really huge flock of flamingos. I’d seen the odd handful before, but the thousands upon thousands I saw here on that day sticks in my memory. The smell (ah yes the smell!), the noise, and of course the searing pink colours; It was one of the moments that made me fall in love with Kenya.

Best for wide open spaces

Combined, Tsavo East and West National Parks cover an enormous swathe of acacia scrub Kenyan wilderness. Tsavo West alone (the bigger of the two parks) covers an area greater in size than Wales, or two and half times the size of Yellowstone National Park.

The two parks are separated from each other by the Nairobi-Mombasa highway and are easy to reach from either city.

Despite being directly adjacent, the two parks are radically different from one another with the green hills of Tsavo East a marked contrast to the red soil and volcanic landscapes of Tsavo West. Because of their diversity and sheer size, I strongly recommend you devote enough time to the parks if you’re going to visit them. The rushed two-day safaris from Mombasa (or Nairobi) simply don’t allow enough time to get much out of a visit.

For world-leading conservation

The Laikipia plateau area in central Kenya is one of the most exciting places in African conservation. This isn’t a single national park or reserve, but rather a network of interlocking private and community-run conservancies where people, livestock and wildlife live together to the benefit of all.

Laikipia hosts all the classic East African safari mammals but is best known for its rhinos, including the critically endangered northern white rhino, only two of which are left alive. Both are female and so, tragically, this is a species awaiting extinction. They can be seen at the Ol Pejeta conservancy.

Kenya’s remote far north

Samburu, Buffalo Springs and Shaba National Reserves are three interconnected reserves on the edge of northern Kenya’s vast semi-desert wilderness.

Far removed from mainstream Kenyan life, these northern regions have a wild reputation. The landscape is harsh with endless sunburnt plains of acacia thornbush out of which rise the occasional fertile and densely forested mountain peaks, ranges, table lands and volcanic plugs.

Elephants, in particular, are the main event here. There are large herds who can migrate huge distances in search of water.

Safari in the big city

While most capital cities have their collection of ornate parks filled with neatly cut lawns, manicured flower beds and perhaps a boating lake, Nairobi has gone one step further.

Its biggest ‘park’ is in fact a 117 square kilometre swathe of undulating savannah grassland and acacia woodland. And while it doesn’t have a boating lake, it does have lions. And buffalo. And rhinos. All of which means that it’s probably not such a sensible place for an after work stroll.

It’s a fabulous safari destination but is woefully overlooked by international visitors to Kenya. This is a shame, because Nairobi National Park is an excellent safari location in its own right. I have been many times, often just for a quick half-day drive from the city. This was the place I first witnessed the thrill of a hunt: a cheetah racing, but failing, to grab dinner for her cubs.

A pair of ostrich in Meru National Park

Kenya safaris: Need to know

Everything you wish you'd known before you booked.

My first Kenya safari was in 1994 and I’ve been coming back pretty much every year since. Here’s what I’ve learned over the years about the best way to plan and book a safari in Kenya.

Mix up your itinerary

My single most important tip for Kenya safari first-timers is to avoid the mistake of non-stop game drives. Standard tour operator itineraries shuttle you from park to park with a gruelling schedule of game drives. Yes, this is the best way of seeing large mammals up close, but the bumpy tracks, early starts and long hours quickly exhaust even the most ardent wildlife-watcher. And there is so much more to safari in Kenya that you’ll miss from racing around in a jeep. Break it up. Look for operators who offer bush walks, village visits, and conservation projects. Or simply take an afternoon or two to sit back under a tree enjoying the sights, sounds and smells.

Many visitors to Kenya devote their entire trip to going on safari…

Don’t miss Kenya’s many hidden gems

Most standardised Kenya safari itineraries reduce the entire country to the blockbuster highlights: the Mara, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru… maybe Tsavo and Samburu if they’re feeling adventurous. This does a great disservice to the country’s true diversity. There’s so much more to a Kenya safari than racing around the savannah chasing the big five and I’d strongly advise you find time to visit some of Kenya’s numerous hidden gems.

For instance, out in the far west is Kakamega Forest Reserve which has more in common with the rainforests of Uganda and the Congo than the classic Kenya landscape. In my opinion this is one of the most delightful places in Kenya, yet hardly any tourists know of its existence.

Another personal favourite that’s a world away from the classic Kenya savannah is Aberdare National Park where dense tangled montane jungle gives way to a high, cold and often bleak moorland. Unusually among Kenyan national parks, you can also get out of the vehicle here and enjoy long, lonely hikes over the moorlands.

But that’s not it: Saiwa Swamp, the Chyulu Hills, Hells Gate, Ruma National Park, and many more that rarely feature on the mainstream Kenya safari circuit but are usually accessible on a self-drive safari, or with more specialist safari operators.

Get out of the safari bubble

Many safari goers, especially those on a high end tour just bounce from one heavenly safari camp to another. Sure, you live the Hollywood Africa dream but you’ve not really experienced real Kenya. Instead, hop on a bus and head out to one of the numerous small market towns where most Kenyans live. You’ll experience a totally different side of the country and it’s one that will stay with you long after the sundowner safari drinks fade from memory.

Kenya off the beaten track

The parks and reserves covered in my Kenya safari guide are only the best-known and most visited of the country's numerous protected and other natural areas…

Stay in at least one conservancy

National parks, reserves and conservancies are mentioned a lot in this guide, but just what is the difference and why does it matter?

A national park or reserve is a government or local council run protected area. Most of the best-known protected areas in Kenya fall into this category.

These areas are run solely for the benefit of wildlife and tourism, sometimes at the expense of local people. Tourism in these areas creates jobs, but locals are often forbidden from entering these protected areas other than for work reasons and communities were often (but not always) removed from their land when the parks and reserves were created. Corruption can be a problem with the money generated by these parks not always going where it should.

A conservancy is a different affair. A conservancy is normally located on either communal land owned by the community as a whole or on private ranch land and has no official government status. On a community conservancy the tourism stakeholders (i.e. the safari camps) lease the land from the local communities on the condition that the land is managed in a manner that is of benefit to both people and animals. The (normally very high) fees you pay to stay in a conservancy go toward paying the land leasing fees as well as various community and environmental projects.

Other conservancies may be located on private ranchland, in which case they have to make enough money for the landowner to financially justify turning his land over to wildlife conservation over cattle ranching.

In other words, a conservancy is run for the benefit of both wildlife conservation, tourism and the needs of local communities (in many cases local people are allowed to continue to graze their cattle on a conservancy but in a controlled and sustainable manner).

All of this means that staying in a conservancy is not just a great safari experience but it’s also very good news for conservation!

Do a homestay

For a cultural experience you’ll never forget, try spending a night at a Maasai homestay near the Masai Mara. Finding authentic, community-run homestays can be a bit of a minefield. I can recommend Sekenani Maasai Development Project (Semadep) but there are others – make sure you book with a community owned and operated outfit, and check reviews carefully.

Caution needed: "Human safaris"

In my opinion, one of the big problems with the safari industry is the way it prioritises seeing wildlife over having meaningful connections with local people. In fact, other than being served by their guides, drivers and camp employees, a typical safari-goer might not have any interaction with a local at all. To me, this is the exact opposite of how it should be done! In my experience, a good trip to Kenya isn't just about seeing wildlife: it should put intimate, authentic interactions with local people at the heart of the whole experience. You can make genuine connections and real friendships as you sit around, sharing stories, laughing and learning from each other.

On the other hand, mainstream Kenya safaris are often sold with "village tour" or even "slum tour" add-ons. These "goldfish bowl safaris" as I call them are unethical and nothing short of exploitation. They violate the privacy, integrity and dignity of local communities and undermine sustainable development by perpetuating a myth of backward, poverty-stricken people. The traveller thinks they're doing the right thing by getting some cultural interaction, but in reality it's deeply damaging. I strongly encourage visitors to avoid anything that feels contrived, and look for trips that put real people at the heart of the experience, rather than an afterthought.

How to plan & book a Kenya safari

There are three broad categories of safaris in Kenya.

The first and easiest option is to book a week(s)-long, multi-stop itinerary through a tour operator, either locally-based or international. This provides the most hand-holding and support for cautious visitors, plus more protection should things go wrong. The potential downside is getting shunted onto one of the more formulaic itineraries and simply following the crowds around the most popular parks. If you book a full tour with an operator, try to find a genuine specialist and ask about visiting some of the lesser-known locations mentioned in this guide.

Secondly you can simply show up and book a safari tour once in-country from the hundreds of operators in Nairobi. There’s nothing inherently wrong with doing it this way but I strongly advise you don’t just book something in the street. Do your homework first and find a reputable, responsible operator. Things to double check include whether park entry fees are included in the price, vehicle type (avoid cramped minibuses), and accommodation type.

Thirdly, and probably my recommendation for all but the most cautious of visitors, is to book the accommodation yourself, rent a car (or a car plus driver), and head out solo. You can take your own camping gear or book into lodges or camps (booking ahead is essential!), or mix camping with more comfortable nights in lodges. I strongly advise renting a vehicle plus driver. It’s often cheaper plus you get an unofficial local guide who knows the ropes. A good driver will become a cultural and language translator, wildlife guide, fixer, and general guardian angel.

Aim for shoulder season if possible

High season in Kenya is the peak summer months of July to September, before the rains begin. In my experience the best time to visit – especially in the busier parks – is either June before the crowds arrive or September-October as the crowds are thinning out, wildlife viewing is excellent and temperatures are ideal.

The best time to visit Kenya for safari

January & FebruaryThis is a hot and dry period…

Be prepared to splash out!

There are almost as many different ways of doing a safari as there are stripes on a zebra and how, when and where you safari makes a huge difference to what you pay. Expect to pay anything from $150 to $1,000+ per person per day.

You can find very low budget two or three day safaris to the Mara from around $250 all in, but these are generally rushed, crowded and uncomfortable. If you’re looking to shave off some costs without compromising on the experience, consider doing a DIY camping safari with your own vehicle and driver.

My other big Keny safari tip is to spend as much as your budget allows on fewer nights in better conservancies and camps. Packing more into fewer days gives you much greater bang for your buck.

Kenya safari costs

For a multi-day, mid-range safari visiting some of the big name parks and reserves then you’re looking at around USD $300-600 per person, per day…

Kenya safari FAQs

Your questions, our expert answers, is it safe / a good idea to rent a car in kenya and drive yourself around, or is it better to join a tour.

Yes, it's perfectly easy to do a self-drive Kenya safari . When you ask if it's "safe" that depends a little on what you mean. If you mean are there bandits, car jackings, dangers from wildlife, etc, then no you are quite safe. Instead the danger is from other drivers, as the driving conditions can be a little 'hectic' in places and accidents are common.

I'd recommend hiring a car with a driver, which can be a cheaper and, in my opinion, a much better option. A good driver will know the lay of the land, the driving conditions, best places to stop for lunch, etc. And they are often knowledgeable of the wildlife. A good driver will be both your driver and guide, and probably become your friend!

Almost any tour company in Nairobi or Mombasa can organise a private vehicle with a driver. Standards and prices vary hugely, so explain to the tour company exactly where you want to go and get in writing exactly what is and isn't included. Pay particular attention as to whether fuel, and the drivers food and accommodation is included in the rates. Also make sure you're booking the right vehicle: a 4WD may be needed for more remote areas.

Where’s the best place to see the big five in Kenya?

Seeing all the big five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo & rhino) in one park is hard. Only Lewa and some of the conservancies in Laikipia can honestly claim to offer easy sightings of all five. But, who cares! This fixation on racing around to tick off just five species is an anachronism from colonial-era big game hunting days. There’s so much more to Kenya’s wildlife and the modern safari experience.

We're visiting the Masai Mara but would like to visit another area on safari in Kenya. Can you recommend anywhere very different to the Masai Mara to see different wildlife and landscapes?

The most common combinations for a short add-on to the Masai Mara are Amboseli , Laikipia or the Samburu area.

For your requirements of a different habitat and wildlife then without doubt I would suggest Samburu National Reserve. This is a much drier and hotter area than the Mara with different vegetation and animals. And, even the animals you might have seen in the Mara are different up here with different species of giraffe, zebra and ostrich all present (and in my opinion all more beautiful than the kinds in the Mara). The park is also superb for elephants.

Samburu, though still popular, is notably quieter than the Mara and, once away from the river, it's easy to feel you have the place all to yourself (and especially if you go into the co-joined Buffalo Springs and Shaba reserves). Depending on when you are there you will find direct flights from the Mara, but otherwise will have to go via Nairobi. If you're driving it's a long way – a 10 hour non-stop drive, so flying is the better option.

Would you recommend staying at Elephant Bedroom Camp in Samburu Reserve, or at Sarara Camp in Namyunak Conservancy?

The quantity and ease of seeing the wildlife is better in Samburu Reserve than in the neighbouring Namyunak Conservancy (because the wildlife is drawn to the river running through the reserve). But there's not a huge difference in habitats or species between the two.

Elephant Bedroom Camp, in Samburu, is a fabulous, small camp. You'll see a lot of elephants and the owners are some of the worlds foremost elephant experts.

In Namyunak Conservancy, Sarara Camp is one of the most exclusive – yet low-key – camps in Kenya. There's slightly less wildlife than in the reserve but it's very close to the reserve and safaris from Sarara often enter the reserve.

The bonus with Sarara is exclusivity. You and the other camp guests will have the entire place to yourself meaning no crowding around animals (though that's rarely a problem in Samburu).

Unlike in the reserve itself you can do walking safaris in the conservancy and there will be more interaction with local people. The final plus is that by staying on a conservancy you will be actively helping to fund private/community conservation initiatives, which isn't always the case when staying only in a reserve or national park.

Overall then, I would opt for Sarara Camp, but I suspect it does cost more, so it might come down to budget!

We are travelling with a large group of 5 families with 3-4 kids per family. What are the best budget friendly safaris in Kenya in July?

If most of the children in your group are very young, your options are fairly limited as the reality is that a longer, multi-day safari can be a bit much with very young kids. I first did a safari with my kids when they were five and two years old and although it was good I probably wouldn't do it again! Past the age of about eight or nine the safari experience gets much easier, as they'll will tolerate sitting in a jeep on a bumpy road for longer.

Do be aware that some safari camps don't accept children below the age of 12. These are normally the unfenced camps and it's done for safety reasons.

You will also need to keep in mind that you will either need several safari jeeps and to travel in convoy or a bus (and these aren't always allowed in some parks). Because you will be travelling with so many children I would suggest small safari camps which you can book out for your group alone. Some of these are more child friendly than others. Some possibiltles that I believe might work well for your group are: Maji Moto Eco Camp, Loita Hills Basecamp, and if you are interested in a Maasai homestay style experience then I'd suggest Semadep Camp, who can arrange homestays around the Masai Mara.

As for specific parks and reserves the Masai Mara area is good because there's a lot of animals to see everywhere you look which keeps children interested. Also good are Nairobi and Narok national parks because of easy access and good roads. Lake Naivasha is good for families too.

It would be easy to combine all these places into a 10 day safari and then you could maybe finish up on the beach (Lamu and Watamu are both superb for families).

Can you recommend any family-friendly camps/lodges in the Masai Mara?

I would suggest rather than staying within Masai Mara proper, stay in one of the conservancies that now fringe the Mara.

In the most basic of terms these are like private, community-run wildlife reserves. Conservancy operators lease the land from local people and each local family receives a guaranteed monthly payment. The conservancy also provides employment and sets up development projects. People continue to graze their cattle but in a more controlled manner. And in return, fences are removed and the wildlife encouraged to return to the lands they were once driven out of. The conservancies have been a great success both for wildlife and local people. And, for tourists, they offer a very exclusive experience and the world's finest safaris.

Each conservancy has only a handful of very discreet high end camps and only guests of those camps can go on a safari in the conservancy, which means crowds of vehicles around a lion are non-existent.

The conservancies also allow activities not permitted within the reserve such as walking (highly recommended), bush camping, night safaris, etc. This makes them ideal for kids because it breaks up the routine and allows a little more freedom.

The safari vehicles and guides used in the conservancies are absolutely the best in the game and the wildlife populations are the equal of the actual reserve. However, there's a catch (of course...), conservation like this doesn't come cheap. All of the conservancies are superb but some names are Naboisho, Mara North and Nashulai Maasai Conservancy (this last one being slightly cheaper than the others and lots of focus on meeting local people). As for actual camps you cannot go wrong with any of them. All the conservancy camps are superb. I'm a big fan of the Basecamp offerings, Off-Beat and Kicheche. All are a little less extravagant than some of the other camps.

If you want to only visit the reserve and not a conservancy then I suggest either Basecamp Mara, Oldarpoi or you could go for a Maasai homestay in Sekenani village. Expect basic but perfectly comfortable rooms but an amazing experience. Your kids would really enjoy this.

Is February a good time to visit the Masai Mara, or would June-July be better? What would be the differences?

February is a very good time for safari in the Masai Mara , but also very different to the experience in June and July.

It's hotter and drier in February and generally there are fewer other tourists. There will still be plenty of zebra and wildebeest around but these are the non-migrating resident herds, so they don't form the massive iconic herds that you might see on TV.

July is good because the migrant wildebeest are all normally in the Mara by then, but its also absolute peak high season so can be busy and expensive. June is perhaps my overall favourite month. Everything is green after the rains and it's nice and cool with far fewer tourists than July, but the first migrant wildebeest might start to arrive (it all depends on rains and the state of the grass).

In short, all three months are excellent but each is different so it might be best to go with whatever just suits your timings better.

I will be in Kenya in early March and am looking for a five day safari for wildlife photography and birdwatching. Where would you recommend for me noting it is the start of the rainy season?

Early March is still a bit early for the rainy season so you might just get the odd thunderstorm. If birds are your real interest and you only have five days then probably the easiest is to go down to the Masai Mara via the Rift Valley lakes of Naivasha and Elementia or Nakuru. This would give you a good range of avian habitats and species in a short space of time. Don't forget as well that Nairobi itself has some excellent birding in the various forests and parklands in and around the city. Plus of course, there's the superb Nairobi National Park where you will see a lot of wildlife and birds.

We can't travel during the migration river crossings, are there other impressive spectacles at other times of year?

Yes! I think calving season during the wildebeest migration is just as spectacular as the more famous river crossing period.

This period runs from December to March around the Ndutu Plains to the south of Serengeti. During this time the wildebeest and zebra stampede over the plains preparing to give birth to thousands of calves. At the same time the big cats are on the lookout for an easy snack. With vast numbers of animals, their sounds and smells, all of the little calves, and the big cats on the lookout... it's theatre on an epic scale and you cannot be disappointed. And the extra benefit is that it's a much shorter drive here than to see the river crossings.

Robbin Meulemans

In this guide:, typical prices for a safari in kenya, when to go on safari in kenya, things to do in kenya other than safari, best safari camps and lodges in the masai mara, about the author.

Stuart is an award-winning travel journalist covering safari, trekking and conservation in Africa for the Lonely Planet, Rough Guides, BBC, Bradt Travel Guides, amongst many others. He is the author of Walking With The Maasai , a journey through some of Kenya's lesser-visited Maasai lands.

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Safari In Kenya: Everything You Need to Know About Doing A Safari In The Tsavo East National Park

Posted on Last updated: January 18, 2021

Like every twenty-something I grew up watching a bit too much Lion King (or was that just me?), which made going on a safari a long-standing item on my travel bucket list.

I finally fulfilled this  African  dream when I went to Kenya and did a safari in the Tsavo East National Park. This was without a doubt one of the most amazing experiences of my life.

If you’re dreaming of your own magical Kenyan safari, but are looking for help to plan it, you’ve come to the right place!

In this guide I’ve put together everything you need to know about doing a safari in Kenya, specifically in the Tsavo East National Park.

I go over things like what to pack, things you need to know before you go, choosing a park for your safari, where to stay and more.

So what are you waiting for, your safari in Kenya is waiting! Let’s dive in!

• 1 Things to know before going on a safari in Kenya
• 2 What to pack for a safari in Kenya
• 3.1 How to get to the Tsavo East National Park
• 4 Where to stay during your Kenyan safari
• 5 Our safari in the Tsavo East National Park

A group of zebras grazing by the water in the Tsavo East National Park

Things to know before going on a safari in Kenya

Even if you’re an experienced traveller, going for a safari in Africa isn’t quite like going on any other trip. There are some things you need to do before you go.

Check if you have all the necessary vaccines – Arguably you should do this before every trip, but for most destinations you will usually be up to date.

Before a trip to Kenya you should pop by your local pharmacy and see what they recommend vaccine-wise.

The jeep of Swara Osteria Camp with which we did our safari in the Tsavo East National Park

Visit a pharmacy or doctor to get your anti-malaria treatment you want (if any) – I’m not a doctor and can’t advise you, so make sure to visit a doctor or local pharmacy and ask about the different types of malaria treatment you can get.

Some parts of Kenya aren’t affected by malaria, and some travellers decide to not take malaria tablets to avoid the side effects as they feel the risk to catch it is very low. Personally, I took Malarone for my trip.

Check the weather forecast – Generally speaking, the weather in Kenya is always very hot. However it does occasionally rain, so you will want to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.

Driving on the tracks of the Tsavo East National Park, Kenya

What to pack for a safari in Kenya

I listed below some items you definitely don’t want to forget before your safari in Kenya, and some suggestions for safari appropriate clothing.

Mosquito repellent – Unless you want to spend the day swatting mosquitos away, make sure to bring yourself some mosquito repellent!

Sunblock – The African sun is very intense, you don’t want to get sunburnt and ruin your trip.

Loose and long sleeved outfits – These are the best outfits for such hot climates, since it keeps things breezy and in the shade.

Wide-rim hat – Like the above points, you want to protect yourself from the sun.

Sunglasses – Don’t forget them, there’s nothing worst than squinting all day while trying to watch the horizon under the midday sun.

Binoculars – As good as your eyesight can be, it won’t be good enough to spot animals that are very far away. Bring one of these with you to ensure you can see animals that you can’t get closer to.

A lone giraffe that we spotted during our safari

About the Tsavo East National Park

With its 13,000+ kilometres squared, the Tsavo East National Park is one of the largest and oldest parks in Kenya. Access to the park costs 65 USD for adults and 30 USD for children.

There are three entry gates to the park and once inside you can only drive on the set paths. Bush driving isn’t allowed so as to not disturb the wildlife.

In the Tsavo you can see a wide variety of wildlife, from the “ Big Five ” to smaller mammals and many African birds . Its rich biodiversity is what makes it such a popular destination for safaris.

A baboon seems surprised to see us

A group of elephants look for water

How to get to the Tsavo East National Park

We were staying in Malindi before heading to the Tsavo East National Park. From Malindi it is approximately a 4-hour car drive depending on the road conditions.

The road is paved for a short section beyond Malindi, with the rest of it being a dirt road,   which takes considerably longer to drive on.

If you are travelling to the Tsavo from further away (eg. Nairobi) you can fly to one of the small airstrips that are close to the park. You can usually organise these with the camp or lodge that you are staying at.

On our drive back to Malindi after the safari we spotted lots of early morning jeeps that were doing a day trip safari to the Tsavo East National Park from Malindi. While this is doable, I don’t particularly recommend it.

You would end up spending 8 hours in the jeep just to get there and back, plus all the time you will spend in the Tsavo East National Park doing the safari.

Doing a safari is a once in a lifetime experience, you want to be fresh for it!

Also, staying in a lodge or camp in the park (or close to it) is also a unique experience, you don’t want to miss out on it!

Elephant crossing the road during our safari in the Tsavo East National Park.

Antelope chilling on the side of the road

Where to stay during your Kenyan safari

I’ve listed below some options of camps in and around the Tsavo East National Park that you can stay at for your safari for every budget.

Budget: Sagala Lodge – If you want to have a safari lodge experience without breaking the bank, Sagala Lodge is a great place to do so.

This affordable camp might be basic compared to some of the more luxurious ones, but it comes with a pool, delicious food, spacious rooms and a great location for an early morning safari. Can’t ask for much more really!

Click here to see prices and availability at Sagala Lodge!

Mid-range: Swara Osteria Camp – We stayed at a camp just outside the park called Swara Osteria Camp and it was an incredible experience. They had an infinity pool with a view, glamping tents and the food they served was delicious.

Click here to book your stay at Swara Osteria Camp!

Luxury: Finch Hattons Luxury Tented Camp – If you’re looking to spoil yourself, this is the place to do so. With private pools, a spa and lovely savannah décor, it’s the perfect place for a luxury safari experience.

Click here to see prices and availability at Finch Hattons Luxury Tented Camp!

The view over the savannah from our bed and tent at the Swara Osteria Camp

Our safari in the Tsavo East National Park

After a long afternoon of driving we arrived at the Swara Osteria Camp in the evening, where we were greeted by Maasai with refreshing drinks and towels.

We were also greeted by the most amazing starry sky, since the power generators don’t kick in till later at night. We got to sit around the pool and the fire and enjoy the star and candle lit atmosphere.

Before having dinner we decided to head out for a night safari, which was incredible. Driving around the savannah under the stars, surrounded by all the sounds of animals getting ready for the night was magical.

We didn’t see big cats, which we were hoping to see as they usually come out to hunt at night, but we did see a group of elephants with their babies. We also saw a rabbit, who ran away as soon as we approached.

Can’t lie when I say it was pretty unexpected.

Early morning light at Swara Osteria Camp, just before setting off for our safari!

The morning after we woke up at 5am, and had an awesome breakfast while watching the sunrise over the river in front of our camp.

We set off nice and early, so that we could have a full day searching for animals and watch the sunrise over the savannah.

I had a very Lion King moment when the big red sun rose in all its beauty. My safari companions didn’t appreciate my singing moment as much.

Sunrise over the Savannah in Kenya

We had an adventure packed day, featuring mostly a lot of driving, interrupted very often by a yell of “I see something!” or “Look there ahead!”, which was usually an animal, but sometimes just turned out to be a funny shaped rock.

Seeing our first elephant in daylight was quite the encounter. Especially because our first elephant encounter was a mother with her cub!

After that we saw lots of elephants, playing in muddy rivers or simply walking around. One even crossed the road right in front of us and almost charged at our land rover!

At one point we got to a traffic jam in the road, definitely not what I was expecting in the middle of the savannah!

A group of giraffes that we spotted during our safari

There were three or four cars parked on the side of the road. We were wondering what they were doing when our guide explained they had spotted lions.

I got super excited about this. The lions were resting in the shade under some bushes, but we saw them move around and walk from one to the other. I can happily say I saw Simba. Although I still need to find Pride Rock.

After that we saw an abundance of zebras, antelopes, monkeys and giraffes. Driving along the river our guide told us to keep an eye out for hippos. However this is really hard for those with an untrained eye.

We stopped a few times with the driver pointing out at what looked like shallow rocks, but when you look at it long enough realise it’s moving and it’s a hippo!

A lone tree in the beautiful savannah landscape

We got to get out of the car at a “Hippo Point”, where you could walk down to the river to get a closer look at the hippos. I was a bit scared since hippos seem placid, but they’re actually very dangerous!

On return from the safari we went on a sunset walk along the river, accompanied by the Maasai from our camp. When compared to driving, walking in the savannah was an even more magical experience.

Especially a since we were accompanied by expert Maasai, who were pointing out all the traces of animals and told us stories of the area.

If you want to find out more about the Maasai check out this article about life in a Kenyan Maasai village . We then closed the day with a lovely dinner under the stars.

Sunset walk in the savannah with the Maasai

Final thoughts on doing a safari in Kenya

Have you ever been on a safari? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

For me it was a dream come true. Doing a safari had been at the top of my travel bucket list for years, and finally going to Kenya for a safari was simply magical. We had an incredible experience thanks to Swara Osteria Camp.

I wanted this post to be informative, sharing with you useful safari information like what to pack and where to stay, but I also tried to make it more personal than the average travel guide.

Doing a safari left me simply awestruck, and I wanted to convey those feelings to you by sharing my experience. I hope you find this guide useful in planning your own safari to the Tsavo East National Park, Kenya!

If you need help planning your trip, make sure to check out this Kenyan safari packing list .

Enjoyed reading about our safari in the Tsavo East National Park, Kenya? Pin it!

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Wednesday 27th of June 2018

[…] Here we had the incredible opportunity to go for a walk in the savannah accompanied by the Maasai that work at the camp. The sun started going down while we were walking, with the Maasai pointing out animal trails or bird nests along the way. Watching the sky turn red while the sun was going down and the Maasai were telling us stories about their life truly was the perfect ending to our safari adventure. Find out more about the Tsavo East National Park here. […]

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See Kenya’s wildlife in a different light: on horseback

Riders can encounter leopards, rhinos, or zebras on these intimate safaris in Kenya's Borana Conservancy.

The equatorial sun is relentless, bearing down as I lead Elaine, a walnut bay with a dark mane, through thorny acacia and dense shrub. It’s been a long day in the saddle. My thighs ache and our camp beckons across a ridge of ancient folding hills in the Lolldaiga Range of northern Kenya , a mosaic of intertwined landscapes and communities.

Suddenly Elaine’s ears flick into alert, antenna-like, and the muscles of her body tense beneath me. Our guide Nicholus Nangunye Tuta stretches out a lean arm toward a bush just meters away. My eyes focus, straining to see what the others already have: two amber orbs glowing from a shadowed form. It’s a young lion, quick and strong, crouched amid the high grass.

A wild silence hangs between us. Without the defensive armor and high wheels of a safari vehicle, I feel completely exposed. Peering into the bush, I’m suspended between wonder and terror, the distance between myself and the savannah’s most notorious predator laughably small. Usually, I’m the one tracking the lion, camera in hand. Now, the lion shifts in my consciousness from object to subject. I shift, too, acutely aware of the soft flesh of my own body.

Nicholus nods his head in the other direction, a safer distance away. He points to indentations in the dust. “Look, this is a big lion, and these are young ones, some cubs,” he says. “Probably a mother.” Pawprints mottle the earth, each telling the story of more lions, moving in different directions. It was time to go.

( Horseback riding in Kenya is one of 20 best travel experiences for 2024. See the full list here .)

In the country where they started in the 1970s, horseback safaris are still the most immersive way to view wildlife in Kenya. To journey on horseback is to break down the walls—meant to protect, but also to separate us from the natural world. And as we’re absorbed in the thrill of the experience, we’re vividly reminded of the importance of protecting these wild spaces.  

Out here your horse is your translator, responding to the low hiss of a leopard, the soft scent of an elephant herd, the cool morning breeze descending from Mount Kenya’s glacial peaks. Your job is to learn how to listen.

Safari tourism and conservation

Saddling up the next morning, we fall into a nose-to-tail line, murmurs of conversation fading as we enter the light-dappled mountain forest. African olive trees stretch out between sentinel-like cedar, and wild orchids root amid the branches. It looks like challenging terrain to navigate, but this trail was blazed by grazing elephants and meanders through the trees with the crooked, effortless sweep of a river.

Around a corner the rough-hewn outline of Mount Kenya appears. Three million years ago this singular volcano was birthed from the Earth’s core, rising to 23,000 feet before time wore it down. Known first as Kirinyaga by the Kikuyu, who lived at its feet and considered it sacred, Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in the country that became its namesake.  

Ice still sparkles off its basalt peaks, even though, as our planet has warmed over the last 80 years, its once mighty glacier has shrunk by 90 percent. The lush volcanic greenery of the country’s center fades here to a more austere beauty of sparse woods, arid plains, and isolated mountains. Crops yield to cows.

( This is the future of safaris in Africa .)

Like many conservancies in Kenya,   Borana began as a cattle ranch, though its land was used to sustain livestock long before that. For thousands of years, cows were the center of culture and currency for the Maasai, Samburu, Pokot, and other pastoral groups. When national parks and conservancies began to be established in the middle of the 20th century, these same groups routinely found themselves barred from grazing their animals on land they had relied on for generations.   Borana now aims for deeper engagement with its neighbors, with outreach programs such as Mazingira Yetu , or “our environment” in Kiswahili, that promote environmental stewardship. Students from nearby communities can spend a day at the conservancy, go on game drives, meet Borana’s rangers, and learn more about sustainable land practices, including water storage, regenerative farming, and tree nurseries. The program launched in 2022, bringing 365 students to Borana, but has grown to welcome more than 1,100 students in 2023.

( Here are five game drive alternatives, from cycling to camping .) Borana reinvests all profits into conservation efforts like this one, and it’s made a difference: Last year tourism generated over $1 million, leading to the protection of 28 endangered species, the training of 114 rangers, scholarships for 55 students, and drought relief to seven communities. But there’s a necessary, and growing, recognition that change doesn’t happen in isolation, and that long-term efforts to protect wildlife require a shared vision across borders, communities, and interests.

An encounter with rhinos

On my final day in Borana, Elaine and I crest a hill, and I notice her aloof, walnut-hued eyes clock two grey masses moving just ahead. It’s a rhino calf and its mother, who moves languidly forward to place herself between us and her young.

Elaine pauses, the two locked in a mutual gaze. Evolution is a funny thing: These two animals are each other’s closest living relatives. The distant cousins seem to come to a cautious truce. We maintain our distance; the rhinos continue grazing. I relax in the saddle and find my attention shifting from the obvious differences between these creatures to the subtle hints of shared lineage: their soulful eyes, strong jaws, and loping gait.

The diversity of our natural world is a wonder, and there is so much to learn from its infinite contrasts—and unexpected connections. As the sun falls behind the hill, I nudge Elaine. She turns away from the now thoroughly unbothered rhinos and we head back home.

What to Know

Related topics.

• HORSEBACK RIDING
• WILDLIFE CONSERVATION
• WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

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Why Kenya Is the Best Place for a Safari, According to a Seasoned Local Guide

Veteran tour guide Kitonyi "George" Kamonde describes what it’s like to work for one of the world’s leading safari companies.

Ask almost anyone and they'll surely tell you that a majestic safari experience is at the top of their travel bucket list. From South Africa to Tanzania, the stunning images of seemingly endless green plains, towering giraffe, and the formidable "Big 5" (African leopard, African lion, Cape buffalo, African elephant, and rhinoceros) have captivated adventurers the world over. However, much like people, not all safari destinations are created equal. Each location offers something special that speaks to those fortunate enough to indulge in its wonder. This is true for Kenya where various spectacular landscapes, such as Amboseli, Lewa, and Masai Mara, are home to rarities like Grevy's zebra, black rhino, and African wild dog.

When he's not home in Kenya's sunny, bustling capital city of Nairobi, Kitonyi Kamonde — better known to adventure seeking travelers as George — is in the bush serving as an expert guide with one of the world's best safari outfitters, Micato Safari . For a decade, George and his warm smile have provided local insight into Kenya's wildlife to generations of safari goers in order to give them the experience of a lifetime. From recalling historic facts and seeking out rare animals to helping guests indulge in luxurious accommodations like Elewana's Kifaru House , George is the man you want by your side — whether you're on your first or your fiftieth safari.

Travel + Leisure caught up with the knowledgeable veteran to learn more about how he got started in the industry, his most memorable experience, and what mistakes he wishes first-timers would stop making on safari.

T+L: How did you get started as a safari guide?

Kitonyi "George" Kamonde : "I've always had a fascination with wildlife. I grew up on a small farm (what we call a shamba ) about two hours from Nairobi, very close to a national park. That exposed me to the wonders of the wild from an early age — and I joined Kenya Wildlife Clubs to learn everything I could about Kenya's magnificent wildlife and birdlife. Next, it was off to college where I graduated with a degree in Tourism & Wildlife Management.

I was a driver-guide for some years before becoming a safari director for Micato, where our training is always ongoing. The process of becoming a certified guide takes many years of study and, like every Micato safari director in Kenya, I earned the prestigious Silver-Level certification awarded by the Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association. I am very proud to have achieved the Silver Certification and, as part of my always ongoing learning about safari guiding, I am working towards my Gold level. Those exams are very difficult, but I am confident that I will be ready if I study hard enough."

What do you love most about being a guide?

"I love meeting guests who love the wild as much as I do, and eventually [becoming] friends. I'm excited each day about guiding and educating them about my country, people, history, culture, and traditions. And we must never forget that our guests are here for the wilderness and the animals. Whether it's a lion or dung beetle, they give us a different show to narrate every time. I also love working with my fellow guides who always find ways to challenge me with their own knowledge. And of course, every day is different. When a morning begins with a loping lioness on the hunt and ends with a 10,000-pound bull elephant bathing in a hippo pool, well, let's see what our afternoon looks like."

What advice do you have for others looking to get started as a guide?

"Being a Safari guide is so much fun! We always find time to laugh, but you must remember that there is much to learn. It's one of the best professions in the world and you will enjoy it if you do your homework well. You have to be well rounded, have a sense of humor, and be ready with the knowledge and information and answers at your fingertips to keep your guests informed, entertained, and happy. And never give an answer you are not sure of. If I don't know the answer, I say so and then find it."

What's your most memorable safari experience?

"You know when news of a really good party spreads like wildfire? Imagine a grand and glorious male lion, six feet long and weighing at least 400 pounds, in a fight to death with a pack of hyenas over a juicy wildebeest kill. When we arrived at this primal scene, there were five hyenas, which was exciting enough, but then word got out and suddenly more swept in from all directions and soon there were 30 at the party. Adaptable and opportunistic, the hyenas immediately surrounded the lion, some trying to grab bites from the kill. The lion flayed and snarled, starting to scare them off, but they retaliated en masse by biting the lion's tail, rear legs, and rear end. At least one hyena died in the fight, but the lion eventually had to retreat, running to safety in a nearby marsh.

Not the end of the story! The hyenas followed and pushed him deeper into the water where he crouched to avoid the relentless attacks. The lion was finally rescued from these daring hyenas by his brother, who eventually emerged from some distance to find his sibling in danger. I was as amazed as our guests were about that one!"

Which safari region is your personal favorite, and why?

"The beautiful landscape and the abundance of game in the Maasai Mara is difficult to beat. The splendid beauty of the big cats, alongside leopard, cheetah, [and] elephant, so readily seen, is one of the world's most impressive marvels."

What's the best time to visit Kenya on safari?

"Kenya is good to visit year-round due to its location on the Equator, though April sees the most rain. We always make sure to find — and create — the finest experience for our guests."

What are three mistakes you often see guests make on their first safari ?

"Overpacking. No need to bring things like hairdryers and shampoo and lots of other things that Micato makes sure are in supply. Too many shoes. And too many clothes. Micato includes complimentary laundry service every day in the bush.

For those who are interested, bring a good camera with a good lens, for birds and other far-off shots. Some guests, who have only their phone for pictures find that they wish they had a longer lens. But of course, the new phones are getting so good that they can be a great tool for many people. My best advice is to know what you are after and know what your equipment is capable of doing. Then bring what suits you best.

People on safari can get excited about an animal sighting and noise can end up making shy cats disappear into the bushes. Micato guests catch on pretty quickly and get pretty quiet, especially if an elusive leopard is nearby."

How has COVID-19 affected the safari industry in Kenya?

"Of course, there have been ups and downs. It was difficult when Kenya was shut off to international flights last spring. Safari and all tourism was brought to a standstill for months. Many camps and lodges had to close, at least on a temporary basis. Things were very quiet in the bush. The best moment was when flights to and from Kenya started again on Aug. 1 [2020]. Now that was a good day! When we re-started our safaris, we as guides were so pleased to have happy guests with us again. Many safety measures went into action right away. Along with Micato, the airlines and the lodges we use have put rigorous COVID safety protocols in place and our guests have been very happy with Micato's protocols. Our guests have told me that the best decision they made was to travel during these times and not wait. That is so nice to hear."

What three words describe the beauty of a Kenyan safari?

"Exhilarating. Incredible. Awesome — and, may I add, the only thing missing? All of you!"

Is Going on Safari Dangerous? Your Safety Questions Answered

Is going on safari dangerous? If you spend time on the Internet, then you may have come across videos of safari attacks on humans by animals. You may even have read or heard grizzly stories about tourists killed in African safaris. Of course, this can raise concerns about ticking off this bucket list adventure.

Feeling concerned or fearful about safety on safari is natural. After all, you’d be venturing into the vast wilderness (likely with companions), where dangerous beasts roam free, and there have been accidents. That being said, the experience isn’t nearly as hazardous as some would have you believe.

Is Going on Safari Dangerous?

Whenever human beings expose themselves to wild, unrestrained animals in nature, there will always be an element of danger. This is partly what makes safari expeditions exciting. However, on safaris in Africa , game reserves take every precaution to ensure the safety of guests during game drives and walks.

The key to remaining safe on game drives and safari walks is to listen to your safari guide. This is of great importance, as not following instructions can result in accidents and injuries. Respect your surroundings and the fact that you are in the wild. Do this and you will enjoy a safe, unforgettable experience.

Do Animals Attack Safari Vehicles?

Wild animals rarely attack or even approach or acknowledge safari vehicles. They are used to the traffic of safari-goers and have adapted to seeing them outdoors. When animals do approach the trucks, it usually because they are seeking shade or camouflage for prey that they are stalking for food.

Now, is going on safari dangerous? It can be, but it seldom is. Safari trucks and tourists are scenery to bush animals, and safari game rangers are experienced and well trained. Should an animal approach, then your driver will tell you how to behave (close windows, sit, stand, etc.) and interact with it.

An African rhino doing his thing as safari tourists look on.

What Is the Safari Death Rate?

It is quite difficult to find information related to fatal safari incidents. This is because all deaths caused by wild animals in Africa are categorised into one group. The deaths that do occur normally do not involve tourists, though. They involve locals and villagers while farming and going about their daily lives.

Deaths that have occurred while on safari are very few, so few that they do not even feature on country statistics for safari destinations. Every year, millions of people go safariing in Africa . On average, perhaps one tourist dies as a result of harmful interactions with wild animals in the bushveld.

What Is the Most Dangerous Animal on Safaris?

Lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, hippos and buffalo… You’ll encounter them all in Africa, depending on when and where you go, and they can all be dangerous. The biggest threat to your health and life, however, is not a member of the Big Five or some other large creature. Rather, it is the pesky mosquito.

Although the tiny mosquito looks far less impressive than Africa’s many sizeable beasts, it can be extremely dangerous. Mozzies carry many potentially deadly diseases, including malaria. The good news is that the risk of contraction is miniscule. Moreover, bites can be prevented if you know what to wear on safari .

The most deadly animal (insect) in Africa, the mosquito!

Is It Safe to Go on Safari?

So then, is going on safari dangerous or is it safe to go on a safari in Africa? African safaris, if you plan well and follow the rules, are not only safe but also incredibly enjoyable. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget, and statistically, you are much safer on safari than you are driving to work in the mornings.

For more information regarding safety on safaris, particularly safaris in South Africa, you can contact Safaris Down South here . You may also want to check out our other safari blogs .

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• 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.

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• 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

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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

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Est-il dangereux d’aller au Kenya ?

Vous envisagez de visiter le Kenya au cours de vos prochaines vacances mais vous hésitez encore au vu de la réputation très contrastée du pays ? Certes, son taux élevé de criminalité et la menace terroriste peuvent en effet inquiéter mais doivent-elles pour autant vous empêcher de découvrir le pays ? Nous vous proposons de faire le point sur les risques que vous encourez mais également sur la meilleure manière de s’en prémunir.

Les zones à éviter durant votre séjour au Kenya

Toutes les zones du Kenya ne se valent pas en matière d'insécurité. Certaines, très touristiques, comme les stations balnéaires sur la côte, bénéficient en effet d'une sécurité renforcée et sont accueillantes pour les visiteurs. D'autres sont moins sûres. Dans ce cadre, le Ministère des affaires étrangères déconseille tout particulièrement :

• L'est du pays et notamment, toute la zone frontalière avec la Somalie . En effet, la menace d'attentats y est particulièrement importante sans compter les affrontements entre les tribus rivales qui peuvent également être des plus impressionnants.
• Les comtés de Turkana et de Marsabit , à cause du banditisme armé.
• Et enfin, certains quartiers de Nairobi , comme ceux de Pangani, d'Eastleigh et de Kibera.

Il est également conseillé de ne pas s'approcher à moins de 50 kilomètres de la côte du comté de Tana River et de la côte du comté de Kilifi car le risque d'enlèvement y est particulièrement important.

A lire aussi : Quels vaccins pour aller au Kenya ?

Précautions à prendre dans le reste du pays

Ces informations en tête, inutile de sombrer dans la paranoïa pour autant : avec un peu de bon sens et de vigilance, vous pourrez passer un excellent séjour au Kenya. Cependant, ces quelques conseils pourront notamment vous être d'une grande aide si vous devez faire face à ce qu'on appelle « la petite délinquance » :

Attention aux pickpockets, notamment dans les transports en commun. Pour éviter de vous faire voler, gardez vos papiers et votre argent dans un coffre ou dans des poches difficilement accessibles.

Si vous circulez en voiture, ne laissez pas d'objets apparents lorsque vous quittez le véhicule.

La nuit, ne sortez pas à pied, ni au volant de votre propre véhicule. Si vous devez circuler en ville, optez pour un taxi .

Attention également aux arnaques : ne vous laissez pas alpaguer par des faux réfugiés ou des enfants mendiants. Si vous voulez faire une bonne action en leur faveur, préférez donner de la nourriture plutôt que de l'argent.

En règle générale, et quels que soient votre âge ou votre sexe, il sera conseillé d'être discret et d'être habillé sans ostentation. Évitez de sortir toute la panoplie du touriste afin de ne pas devenir une cible d'autant plus facile qu'elle est simple à identifier. Si malgré tout, vous êtes victime d'un vol ou d'une agression, il est conseillé de ne pas résister, de donner ce qu'on vous demande de céder et de laisser à vos agresseurs le loisir de s'enfuir.

Le Kenya est-il dangereux actuellement – Zones à éviter en 2024

Vous avez envie de faire un safari dans un des plus beaux pays d’Afrique de l’est et souhaitez savoir s’il est dangereux d’aller au Kenya en ce moment.

Tout comme la Tanzanie , le Kenya est une destination qui attire de nombreux touristes car ce pays est d’une beauté naturelle exceptionnelle avec une faune sauvage incroyable. Cependant, il y a certains risques associés aux voyages dans ce pays. Il est important de connaître ces risques et les zones à éviter pour assurer la sécurité lors de votre voyage au Kenya.

Dans cet article, nous examinerons les risques potentiels pour les voyageurs, les zones dangereuses à éviter et les mesures de sécurité à prendre.

Il s’agit d’une synthèse de données sourcées depuis les sites de recommandations gouvernementales, de statistiques et de classements. Cet article ne contient donc ni jugement ni propos discriminatoires.

Le Kenya est-il un pays dangereux ?

Pour évaluer si le Kenya est un pays dangereux, j’ai comparé son indice de criminalité avec celui des autres pays du monde entier.

Sur le dernier classement Numbeo.com , le Kenya figure parmi les 35 pays les plus dangereux du monde sur les 145 pays classés.

En comparaison, avec un indice de criminalité de 56.77, le Kenya est un pays plus criminel que la Jordanie , la Turquie , le Maroc , la Tunisie et même que le Mexique !

Quels sont les risques de voyager au Kenya ?

Délinquance.

Le Kenya est reconnu pour avoir un taux de criminalité parmi les plus élevés d’Afrique.

Les vols à la tire qui se suivent d’actes de la violence quand il y a résistance, les agressions en voiture et les cambriolages sont fréquents. Les touristes sont également confrontés à des arnaques, des escroqueries et du racket.

Tensions politiques

Le Kenya connaît actuellement des tensions politiques et sociales qui peuvent entraîner des manifestations, des barrages routiers et des actes de violence.

Les affrontements violents sont fréquents lors de manifestations, comme ce fut le cas le 12 juillet 2023 où plusieurs personnes ont perdu la vie.

Dans certaines régions du Kenya comme dans la vallée du Rift, il est possible de rencontrer des conflits territoriaux entre agriculteurs et éleveurs. Ces conflits sont gérés par des autorités locales mais peuvent entraîner des violences.

Risque terroriste au Kenya

Le risque d’actes terroristes est présent dans tout le pays.

Cette menace terroriste est principalement due au Shebab al Islami qui se manifeste en particulier sur les régions frontalières de la Somalie (Mandera, Garissa et Lamu) où il est fortement déconseillé de se déplacer.

De plus, le pays fait face à la menace de l’« Etat islamique », qui est également présent dans le pays voisin du Mozambique (ISCAP).

Les touristes peuvent être confrontés à la menace terroriste à :

• et sur les zones côtières du Kenya.

Est-il dangereux de voyager au Kenya en 2024 ?

Oui on peut dire qu’il est dangereux de voyager au Kenya sans être encadré par une agence de voyage.

En effet, la criminalité violente est très répandue et constitue un risque réel en particulier pour les voyageurs se déplaçant seuls.

Il faut savoir que les agresseurs peuvent se faire passer pour des forces de l’ordre en portant des uniformes de police.

En cas d’agression, il ne faut surtout pas résister car les assaillants peuvent recourir à la violence.

Pour les voyageurs qui voyagent par leurs propres moyens, il est impératif de choisir des hébergements sécurisés, de se déplacer en taxis officiels, de se renseigner sur les zones à éviter (voir ci-dessous) et de ne pas sortir la nuit.

Régions très dangereuses au Kenya

Les zones les plus dangereuses se situent à l’est du pays à la frontière entre le Kenya et la Somalie , à cause des mouvements militaires réguliers, des menaces persistantes et des incursions et attaques effectuées par le groupe Al Shabab sur le territoire kenyan. Le risque de kidnapping y est également important.

Cette zone s’étend jusqu’à 100 km à l’intérieur des frontières. Elle comprend les localités de Mandera, Buite, El Wak, Dif, Liboi, Dadaab et Garissa ainsi que la route reliant cette dernière à Dadaab (risques d’attaques à l’explosif et de raids de gangs criminels).

Pour des raisons similaires, il est également fortement déconseillé de se rendre dans la partie continentale du comté de Lamu ainsi que sur l’archipel de Lamu.

Il est expressément déconseillé de se déplacer aux frontières avec le Soudan du Sud et l’Éthiopie car il y a un risque important d’attaques de groupes armés de chaque côté.

Zones à éviter au Kenya

Du fait de l’instabilité récurrente, le nord de la ligne Kitale-Archers’ Post-Garissa (comtés de Turkana, Marsabit et Wajir) est une zone à éviter sauf raison impérative et à condition d’être escorté par des policiers.

Cette région est caractérisée par des tensions intercommunautaires qui, à cause de la sécheresse et des problèmes d’accès à l’eau et aux pâturages, entraînent des conflits localisés et violents.

A savoir que l’accès aux réserves nationales de Shaba, Buffalo Springs et Samburu est toujours possible.

La banlieue nord-est de Nairobi (Eastleigh, Pangani) est également une zone à éviter sauf raison impérative. Une prudence extrême est conseillée pour tout déplacement à Kibeira ou Mathare .

A Nairobi, à Kisumu et Mombasa, il faut être très vigilant lors des déplacements, dans les lieux publics les plus fréquentés notamment par les touristes et éviter les manifestations.

Carte des zones dangereuses au Kenya

Sur la carte publiée par le Ministère de l’Europe et des Affaires étrangères, les zones très dangereuses sont indiquées en rouge et les zones à éviter sont en orange :

Carte Ken ya

Recommandations voyages mises à jour

Concernant la situation de conflit à Israël et à Gaza et des violents combats en cours, la France met à jour ses recommandations aux voyageurs régulièrement.

Elle rappelle notamment que compte tenu du relèvement de la posture du plan Vigipirate au niveau Urgence attentat, une vigilance renforcée est recommandée à l’ensemble de nos ressortissants résidant ou de passage dans les pays du Moyen-Orient, en Afrique du Nord et en Afrique de l’Est.

Comme la situation évolue de jour en jour, il faut consulter le site diplomatie.gouv.fr pour vous s’informer des zones à éviter au Kenya actuellement.

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