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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

kenya safari how many days

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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.

kenya safari how many days

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.  

kenya safari how many days

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."

kenya safari how many days

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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Lindsay Silberman

Everything You Need to Know About Planning a Safari

kenya safari giraffe manor

When Matt & I decided we wanted to do a safari this year, I literally didn’t know where to start.  We had no idea where in Africa we even wanted to go, how long we should go for, which airport to fly into, which camp to book, what time of year was best, etc etc. I spent hours and hours on research that ultimately left me even more confused. We ended up choosing a safari in Kenya, and it was one of the most memorable experiences we’ve ever had.

Below is a guide that will help you make sense of everything beforehand. It’s something I wish I had when we were planning ours!

HOW TO APPLY FOR A KENYA VISA

US citizens will need to get a Kenyan visa prior to visiting, and  you can apply online without having to visit a consulate. Be sure to have a copy of your hotel confirmation and flight info ready, as you’ll need to attach the documents to the online e-visa form. The cost (including a processing fee) is $51 per person.

We checked in on our applications about two weeks later and saw that our visas were approved. You don’t receive anything physical in the mail, so be sure to print out the receipt and confirmation of your approval and have it with you at the airport. We didn’t realize we’d need a print-out, so when immigration asked for it, we were scrambling to pull it up on our phones.

It’s also possible to apply for a visa at the airport when you arrive in Nairobi (and the cost is only $21) but most people prefer to avoid the headache by doing it in advance. 

masai mara kenya safari

QUICK TIP:  Apply for your visa online—it’ll save you the hassle of having to do it at the airport.

Vaccinations for kenya.

One of the most confusing aspects of preparing for the trip was vaccinations. We needed the yellow fever vaccine—but only because we were heading to the Seychelles after Kenya, and the Seychelles requires it for visitors coming from Kenya. We also got malaria pills, antibiotics (to have on hand in case we got sick during Safari), and shots for Hepatitis A&B.  Passport Health  is a fantastic resource for travel immunization information—the site breaks down every vaccination that’s needed for each country, and can even assist with booking appointments in your area. Best of all, they’ll create an itemized print-out for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.

Quick Tip: Confused about vaccinations?  Passport Health makes the process seamless.

What to pack for your safari.

Check out my EXHAUSTIVE safari packing guide here .

Safari

Photo: @lindsaysilb

OVERNIGHT IN NAIROBI + GIRAFFE MANOR

Depending on when you arrive, you’ll typically fly into Nairobi and spend the night before heading to your destination first thing the next morning.

Close to the city center and not far from Nairobi airport is  Fairmont Norfolk , a historic British colonial hotel that feels like a journey to a bygone era. The accommodations are perfect—rooms are centered around a quaint courtyard, there are Le Labo amenities, and a phenomenal morning breakfast spread. At the bar, musicians play live music, while locals and businesspeople have wine, cocktails, and (surprisingly delicious) tapas. We stayed here and we loved it—plus, they stored our bags for us so we didn’t have to worry about baggage weight requirements for the safari (more on that below.)

giraffe manor nairbobi kenya

If you choose to spend extra time in Nairobi, I would also recommend checking out  Hemingways— or you might consider extending your stay at  Instagram favorite Giraffe Manor . It’s definitely pricey… rooms at Giraffe Manor typically start at $620 per person, per day (all inclusive) and they’re usually booked out more than six months in advance, but if you have the budget and want a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, I would absolutely recommend it. Personally I don’t think you need more than one night; two at the most. You can check out their rate sheet here for more details.

Full disclosure: We didn’t plan far enough in advance to book a night, so I emailed them to ask if we could just come by for a meal—I offered to post on my IG feed, pay full price, etc.—and they still said no. Apparently it’s against their policy to allow non-guests onto the property. However, after a lot of begging, they agreed to let us come for tea, but only because I was able to cover their other properties in a magazine. All of this is to say…if you *really* want to go, you’ll have to book a room. It’s an annoying policy, but I get it—it’s their way of preserving the intimacy of the experience for guests that are paying a lot of money to stay there.

TRANSFERRING TO YOUR FLIGHT

After your overnight, you’ll be transferred to Wilson Airport, a smaller, regional airport where most of the safari flights depart from. Bear in mind that the planes are small, so you’ll likely be told to bring only one duffel bag per person that weighs no more than 15 pounds. (Most camps and luxury lodges provide daily laundry service, which helps when you’re forced to pack minimally.) Flight times vary depending on where you’re headed and how many drop-offs the plane makes, but they can be anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour.  In my experience, the 15lb rule wasn’t strictly enforced, but it’s probably not worth taking your chances. (More on this under “FAQ’s”.)

Safari

CHOOSING A CAMP + COST

One of the most difficult aspects of planning a safari is choosing which camp to stay at. They truly run the gamut—from posh five-star lodges to rugged tented retreats.  In general, properties fall into two categories: lodge-style and tent-style. There are some pretty incredible and luxurious tented camps (& Beyond and Angama are two of the best) but I knew I was more of a lodge person. 

I’d heard incredible things about  Sanctuary Retreats Olonana , which is where we chose to stay, and it truly exceeded expectations. Rates include everything—food, wine, tours, private guide, spa treatments, daily laundry and even gratuity. They start at $350/night per person and can go as high as $1,000/night per person depending on the time of year. It’s definitely pricey, but I really believe you get what you pay for. (They have full price list on their website here .)

The resort was completely redone in July so everything is brand new. Daily meals take place during specific times and there are set menus, but the property was totally willing to make adjustments according to your personal preferences.

Quick Tip: Decide whether you want a traditional “tented camp” experience, or if you’d be more comfortable in a lodge.

masai mara safari lodge kenya

Rooms are stunning (see above – do you die?!) and have every amenity imaginable: Wifi, filtered water bottles, french press coffee, bathrobes, toiletries, and a minibar. The 14 suites are situated on the Mara River, so you’re able to see some pretty crazy things right outside of your window—we watched hippos splash around in the water from the comfort of our bed.

TYPICAL GAME DRIVE SCHEDULE

Upon arrival at the airstrip, we met our guide who would be with us throughout the trip, and did our first game drive for a few hours before sundown that day. The next morning, we went out from 7am – 10am, and then again from 4pm – 7pm. Since it tends to get extremely hot during the day, drives often take place in the morning and before sunset, but full-day drives are also an option for those who prefer it.

kenya safari in the masai mara

During our downtime, we rested, had leisurely lunches and cocktails, and visited a local school and Masai village nearby, which, to be honest, was possibly my favorite part of the entire trip. (You can learn more about the charity efforts that help  support local Masai communities here .) Of course, each camp is different, but the staff at Sanctuary Olonana worked with us to set up activities according to what we were interested in. They also took special requests, like having coffee carafes in the van for the morning drives, beer and wine in a cooler for sunset cocktails, and even a picnic lunch for our last day.

THE WILDLIFE

If you visit during The Great Migration (which descends upon the Mara in July and lasts until October), you can expect to see thousands upon thousands of zebra and wildebeest en route to the Serengeti. Lions, giraffes, hippopotamus, and impalas are also fairly common, while rhinoceros and cheetahs are decidedly more rare to spot. Our guide told us that although certain seasons are rainier others, there truly isn’t a  bad  time of year for a Kenyan safari.

cheetah spotting safari masai marai

Quick Tip: Ask your camp/hotel staff what other activities or special arrangements they can arrange beyond safari—like seeing a local school or visiting a nearby village.

What to bring with you for your game drive.

I had a tote packed for each ride with the following items:

  • Scarf (it can get cold and dusty)
  • Hairbrush (the wind really did a number on my hair & I obviously want to look FRESH for my pics)
  • Lipbalm/Chapstick
  • External battery & charging cord
  • Deet wipes (these came highly recommended – in a resealable pack. Only got bit once)
  • Bottle of water
  • Powder sunscreen (to reapply to my face; I hate putting liquid sunscreen on top of makeup)
  • Jacket (for early in the morning and after the sun went down)

Safari Preparation

SAFARI FAQ’s:

Q: do you recommend using a travel agent or tour operator.

A: 100%. There are so many moving parts and logistics (with flights, baggage rules, locations, etc) that it’s almost impossible to figure everything out on your own—throughout our safari, Matt & I kept saying “thank GOD we didn’t try to do this ourselves.” We used  Abercrombie & Kent,  a company that I’d worked with before through Town & Country . (They have a team that specializes in Africa, and Kenya more specifically.) They were incredible and answered all of our questions + came up with a loose itinerary within 24 hours of our call.

Q: Is the baggage weight requirement for real?

A: They  didn’t weigh our bags when we checked in, but that’s probably because we only had duffels with us—we left our other luggage at the hotel. Even if your hotel doesn’t offer it, t he airports have luggage storage facilities for your extra stuff. I know it seems impossible to keep it to 15 pounds, but it honestly wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be!

Q: How many days do you recommend?

A: My advice is to think long and hard about how many days you’ll actually need for your safari. I had initially assumed we’d want at least 5 days, but our travel agent insisted that 3-4 days would be plenty. She was right. What I didn’t realize is that while the game drives are incredible, they can also be extremely long, hot, and exhausting—we spent around 6-8 hours a day driving through the desert. Our experience was AMAZING, but by the last day of our trip, I felt like it had been the perfect amount of time.

Q: Would you recommend going on safari for a honeymoon?

A:  My answer is unequivocally yes. I have a lot of thoughts about honeymoons (you can check out my guide to honeymoon planning here ) but I do think a safari is one of the most surreal, once-in-a-lifetime experiences that is wildly cool to have as a newly married couple. My ONLY caveat is that you should pair the safari with a second, more relaxing destination. Going on safari isn’t what I would call leisurely—it requires waking up at 6am and long afternoons in the heat. In an ideal scenario, I’d suggest starting your honeymoon with a safari and ending with a relaxing beach destination. Popular combinations include Krueger National Park in South Africa + Cape Town + Winelands; Kenya + Seychelles; Tanzania + Mozambique; Sri Lanka + Maldives.

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Kathy Vayda

Thank you for all the information! We are in the middle of planning our Kenya trip next December over the busy holiday season! Looking forward to rereading this and rereading this until it stays in my head. And making sure my girls do as well. All your pictures are stunning…I better start planning although won’t come close to what you have posted! Thanks for all the help!! Kathy

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Lindsay Silberman

So glad you found it helpful! It’s going to be such an amazingly memorable trip for you and your family!

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Ana Katrina Lopez

Hi Lindsay! Just wanted to say I enjoyed reading your blog post. And definitely learned a lot of useful advice for a Kenya safari as well as styling ideas for when I do go there. I’m definitely going to be referring to your post for when I plan and prepare for my own safari adventure. I can only hope to have the same memorable exciting experience as you! I heard there’s a lot of wildlife action and scenic views to see in Kenya as well as a cultural side as well. Did you get to explore the tribes in the area?

so glad to hear that!!

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Robyn Henry

Hi Linsday,

Thank you for creating such a well designed article.

I would love to know how you would describe the Secluded Africa lodge experience in Kenya or South Africa. With a diverse focus on conservation, cultures and communities while simultaneously offering every accommodation type, it offers something for every traveler.

I do hope we have the chance to discuss.

Safe travels, Robyn

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Hi- this is so helpful! Would love to go on safari, with of course the relaxing trip afterwards! Curious, and I’m sure things have changed some, but what is the ballpark price for this sort of vacation? I know we can’t do super luxurious, but definitely want nice. Truly clueless!

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thanks for the great info – do you recommend simply using a newer I-phone for photos while on safari- or purchasing a DLR camera with an extended lens?

I think it totally depends how serious you are about photography! I personally would just do iPhone because I don’t have the patience to go through hundreds of photos shot on a camera, but i totally understand that other people might not mind!

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That time i threw a frette pajama party at the st. regis.

Helen in Wonderlust

A Magical Kenya Itinerary – Safaris, Cities & Beaches

kenya safari how many days

Kenya is an incredible and diverse country, perfect for an introduction to African travel.

Kenya is one of those countries that really has it all – great safaris, excellent beaches, mountains, traditional culture and modern cities.

My ideal Kenya itinerary would involve some time on safari at the beginning of the trip, as well as time at the beach at the end of the trip. The options are endless, so here are a few ideas to get you started planning your own Kenya trip.

Please Note:  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate sales help with the running costs of this site, so thank you for your support!

Table of Contents

A Magical Kenya Itinerary (Plus Things To See & Do)

Helen in Wonderlust with Najin, one of the last Northern White Rhinos

Here are a few ideas for what your itinerary could look like for 1, 2 and 3-week trips. I’ve written about all the destinations in more detail below so that you can build your own itinerary. You might want a more safari-focused Kenya itinerary, or you could do a little bit of safari and lots of beaches! The options are endless!  

Kenya Itinerary – 1 Week

  • Day 1 – 2: Nairobi
  • Day 3 – 5: The Masai Mara
  • Day 6 – 7: Diani Beach, Kilifi, Mombasa or Lamu

Kenya Itinerary – 2 Weeks ( Option A)

  • Day 3 – 6: The Masai Mara
  • Day 7 – 8: Amboseli National Park
  • Day 9 – 10: Mombasa or Diani Beach
  • Day 11 – 12: Kilifi
  • Day 13 – 14: Lamu

Kenya Itinerary – 2 Weeks ( Option B)

This is the itinerary for my Rock My Kenya Adventure – check it out here.

  • Day 1: Nairobi
  • Day 2 – 5: Samburu National Reserve
  • Day 6 – 7: Ol Pejeta
  • Day 8: Lake Nakuru
  • Day 9 – 11: Masai Mara
  • Day 12 – 14: Lamu

Kenya Itinerary – 3 Weeks

  • Day 12 – 13: Amboseli National Park
  • Day 14 – 15: Tsavo National Park 
  • Day 16: Mombasa
  • Day 17 – 18: Watamu or Malindi
  • Day 19 – 21: Lamu Island

Other destinations you could add to your itinerary if you have more time include:

  • Lake Turkana: 5 – 7 Days
  • Mount Kenya National Park: 4 – 6 Days
  • Lake Naivasha & Hell’s Gate National Park: 2 – 3 Days

Kenya Itinerary Map

Here’s a little visual guide to the places I mention above.

Group Tour Masai Mara Kenya

How to Get Around Kenya

One thing you need to consider when planning your Kenya itinerary is how you will get around.

Kenya is a relatively easy country to travel by public transport. There are good coaches between major cities, smaller minibuses known as matatus that go everywhere and even an excellent train network between Nairobi and Mombasa. There are also lots of taxis and in Nairobi, Uber is a popular way to get around.

However, if you are short on time, sometimes taking a Kenya group tour is a good option, saving you time (most importantly) and sometimes money, and you won’t waste precious time on your Kenya holiday trying to find groups to join.

I would try to avoid travelling by matatu for long journeys as they are not known for being the safest or most comfortable method of transport.

If you are heading up towards Lake Turkana, check the safety situation on the ground as you may need an armed escort to travel and between Malindi and Lamu, it is advisable to fly.

Shimba Hills, Kenya - Helen in Wonderlust

When To Visit Kenya

Kenya is best visited during the dry season from June to October. I would avoid the rainy season from mid-March to May. January and February can also be quite nice, although pretty hot in places.

If you’re hoping to see the Great Migration in the Masai Mara, July to September/October is usually the best time although sometimes the herds have arrived earlier, in June.

Amboseli National Park, Kenya

How Long To Spend in Kenya

On this Kenya itinerary, you’ll find a ton of different places to visit, as well as lots of things to do. Kenya has it all!

Kenya is a big country and it would be impossible to see it all in a one or two-week trip. But, in a couple of weeks, you can definitely get a good feel for the country.

Under each location, I’ve suggested the minimum amount of time I recommend you spend there. The full itinerary below would take around a month, but if you’re on a shorter trip, you can just miss certain places out.

For instance, Kenya is very safari heavy, so you could easily just pick 1 or 2 Kenya safari destinations and then spend the rest of your time soaking up the atmosphere in Nairobi or on the coast, near Mombasa.

Wildebeest Migration - Kenya & Tanzania

Combining Kenya & Tanzania

People often ask me which is better – Kenya or Tanzania ? They can easily be combined in one trip, but again, these countries are huge, so you won’t be able to see everything in 2 weeks, but you’ll still be able to have an incredible trip either way.

My Kenya & Tanzania Adventure tour takes in the major highlights of both countries – so definitely consider that if you want to maximise your time and let someone else (me) sort out the logistics for you!

For further ideas, check out my suggested Kenya & Tanzania itinerary and my Tanzania itinerary .

The Nairobi Giraffe Centre - Helen in Wonderlust

Detailed Kenya Itinerary

Nairobi may seem a bit intimidating for a first-timer to Africa, but it’s actually a great city. The first time I visited I wasn’t that impressed as it just seemed crowded, busy and congested.

But I’ve been back many times since then and now it feels like home. It’s still crowded and hectic, but it is also vibrant, exciting and full of adventure, I just didn’t see it the first time around.

Nairobi is the perfect place to begin or end your Kenya trip and you can either head straight out of Nairobi and come back later or spend a few days there first before you go on safari.

How Many Days to Spend in Nairobi  

1 – 2 days. You could spend a night in Nairobi and then head straight out to other parts of the country, but there are lots of cool things to do in Nairobi too if you have time.

Things To Do in Nairobi

  • Visit the Nairobi Giraffe Centre (they’re the same giraffes at Giraffe Manor).
  • See the baby elephants at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
  • Learn about Kenya’s tribes at Bomas of Kenya.
  • Visit the Maasai markets.
  • Go on safari in Nairobi National Park.
  • Do a walking tour of the city.

Where to Stay in Nairobi

  • Wildebeest Eco Camp : I often stay at Wildebeest Eco Camp which is a great place for groups and families. They have dorm tents too so perfect for solo travellers.
  • After 40 : If you want to stay in the city centre, try After 40 for a mid-range option.
  • Villa Rosa Kempinski : To treat yourself, stay in Villa Rosa Kempinski in the city centre.

Umoja Women's Village in Samburu Kenya

Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve lies around 300km north of Nairobi on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River. 

Believe it or not, Samburu Reserve in Kenya was the first safari I ever went on back in 2009. I cried when I saw an elephant in the wild for the first time. It was such a special moment in my life.

I also visited Umoja Women’s Village, an initiative set up by a lady called Rebecca Lolosoli. The project was set up to help women and girls from the Samburu tribe who are the victims of violence from their husbands or forced into marriage with older men from a very young age.

If you don’t fancy the drive, you can fly up to Samburu from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport.

How Many Days to Spend in Samburu National Reserve

2 – 3 Days. As it’s a bit of a drive from Nairobi, I would recommend spending at least 2 – 3 nights there. It’s also a great place to stop if you are exploring Northern Kenya . and can easily be combined with a safari to Ol Pejeta Conservancy too.

Things To Do in Samburu National Reserve

  • Go on safari in Samburu National Reserve or Buffalo Springs National Reserve on the other side of the river. The daily park fee covers you for both places. You can see my guide to Samburu National Reserve here .
  • Visit the Umoja Women’s Village  (see a Youtube video about the village here ). It costs 1000 KES per person to visit for the day.  

Where to Stay in Samburu National Reserve

  • Umoja Women’s Village: For a truly local experience, you can stay at the Umoja Women’s Village.
  • Sabache Camp : Alternatively, I’d recommend Sabache Camp, a good mid-range option.
  • Elephant Bedroom Camp : For a more high-end stay, have a look at the wonderful Elephant Bedroom Camp.

Lake Turkana, Northern Kenya

Lake Turkana

Remote Lake Turkana, also known as the ‘Jade Sea’, doesn’t find itself on many Kenya itineraries, but it can be an amazing adventure for the intrepid traveller, especially if you venture up there during the Lake Turkana Festival which takes place in June (usually – they have been known to move it).

The Lake Turkana Cultural Festival was created to help relations between the different tribes who live within the region and promote ‘cross-cultural interaction, harmony, cohesion, integration, cooperation and trading’.

At the festival, you will have the opportunity to observe and interact with people from around 14 remote Kenyan tribal groups, including the El Molo, Randille, Samburu and Turkana as well as learn about their way of life.

This is definitely something special if you can squeeze it into your Kenya itinerary. Just keep an eye on the safety warnings around the region and seek local advice before you drive up there.

How Many Days to Spend in Lake Turkana

5 – 7 days. The festival lasts for 3 days and it will probably take you a good couple of days to get up there and a couple of days to back down (even without stops), so allow a week altogether, unless you fly. Samburu, Mount Kenya or Ol Pejeta are good places to stop en route.

Things To Do in Lake Turkana

  • See the Teleki Volcano.
  • Go fishing on the lake.
  • Visit some prehistoric sites.
  • Take a boat ride on the lake.
  • Go bird watching.
  • Visit a local tribe.
  • Take part in the Lake Turkana Festival.

Where to Stay in Lake Turkana

  • Camping by Lake Turkana: The festival takes place in Loiyangalani. If you’re on a budget, camping is usually the best option – there is very little infrastructure so it is best to be self-sufficient.
  • Malabo Resort : Don’t fancy camping try Malabo Resort.
  • Eliye Springs Resort : On the other side of the lake, the most reliable option is Eliye Springs Resort.

Sunrise over Mount Kenya as seen from Ol Pejeta Conservancy with an elephant in the foreground

Mount Kenya National Park

Near to the Samburu National Reserve lies Mount Kenya, Kenya’s highest mountain at 5,199 metres – in fact, it’s the second-highest mountain in Africa.

Reaching the summit requires technical climbing, so most trekkers head to the 3rd highest peak, Point Lenana which usually takes between 4 and 6 days. Shorter treks are also available. Most trekkers start from the town of Naro Moru.

If you’re feeling less energetic you can take a helicopter ride over the summit. Flights usually depart from Nanyuki.

How Many Days to Spend in Mount Kenya National Park

4 – 6 days if climbing the mountain. More if you want to stay somewhere close the night before and after your trek or want to visit some of the other nearby areas, less if you are just passing through and doing a day hike.

Things To Do in Mount Kenya National Park

  • Hike or climb Mount Kenya.
  • Take a helicopter ride over the summit.
  • Visit the Ngare Ndare waterfall.
  • Visit nearby Meru National Park.
  • Visit the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.
  • Visit Aberdare National Park.

Where to Stay in Mount Kenya National Park

  • Noro Moru River Lodge : Some treks offer transfers from Nairobi but if you want to stay closer, try the Noro Moru River Lodge.

Najin & Fatu Ol Pejeta - Kenya

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Ol Pejeta is one of my favourite places in Kenya . This privately-owned wildlife conservancy to the west of Mount Kenya National Park houses the largest population of the endangered black rhino in East Africa so sightings are pretty much guaranteed. 

There are so many great things to do in Ol Pejeta and it’s perfect for families. You can even go horse riding through the reserve, allowing you to get close to the animals without scaring them, that includes the rhinos.

The great thing about this conservancy is that you don’t have to be staying there to visit. You can just pay to visit for the day. One of the main highlights is the waterhole at Sweetwaters Serena Camp where you will often see rhinos coming to drink.

How Many Days to Spend in Ol Pejeta

1 – 2 days at the minimum. But I reckon you could easily spend longer! Plan your stay around the activities you want to do. You can read more about planning your trip in my Ol Pejeta travel guide .

Where to Stay in Ol Pejeta

  • Ol Pejeta Campsites : There are a number of campsites available inside the park.
  • Sweetwaters Serena Camp : Part of the Serena portfolio, Sweetwaters Serena Camp is an excellent choice.
  • Olepangi Farm : For a luxurious stay, I would suggest the Olepangi Farm which is just outside the park.

Things To Do in Ol Pejeta Conservancy

  • Go horse riding to see Fatu & Najin the last two Northern White Rhinos.
  • Visit Baraka, the blind black rhino.
  • Join the K9 dog tracking team.
  • Go on a lion tracking game drive.
  • Visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary.

Giraffe in Masai Mara, Kenya - Helen in Wonderlust

Lake Naivasha & Hell’s Gate National Park

The next stop on this Kenya itinerary is around Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate National Park.

On the way, you could stop at Thomson Falls , which lies between Ol Pejeta and Lake Naivasha, either for a picnic stop or an overnight stay if coming from further away.

Naivasha town lies close to Lake Naivasha. Nearby you’ll find the wonderful Hell’s Gate National Park, said to be the inspiration for the Lion King due to its dramatic landscape. What’s also special about Hell’s Gate, is that you can take cycling safaris allowing you to get a completely different safari perspective.

Naivasha is also close to the extinct Mount Longonot which can be climbed in a few hours and offers great views over Lake Naivasha, as well as Elsamere, home of Joy Adamson, the writer of Born Free.

How Many Days to Spend in Naivasha & Hell’s Gate National Park

2 – 3 days. If you were in a rush, 1 night could be ok if you’re not travelling to or from too far.

Where to Stay in Naivasha & Hell’s Gate National Park

  • Camp Carnellys : The most popular budget option is Camp Carnellys.
  • Elsamere Lodge : This is the lodge on the site of Elsamere, of Born Free fame, where Joy Adamson lived.
  • Enashaipai Resort & Spa : The name of this lodge means ‘state of happiness’ in the Maasai language.

Things To Do in Naivasha & Hell’s Gate National Park

  • Go cycling or do a safari at Hell’s Gate National Park.
  • Take a dip in the Ol Karia Geothermal spa.
  • See the flamingos at Lake Oloiden.
  • Take a boat out on Lake Naivasha.
  • Go walking on Crescent Island .
  • Visit Elsamere.
  • Climb Mount Longonot.

Lake Nakuru National Park

At one time, I would have definitely said to go to Lake Nakuru, which used to be famous for its flamingos, however, rising water levels have forced the flamingos to move to Lake Bogoria (around 4 hours north) and pollution from the nearby town has also had a negative effect – it’s very sad.

Saying that it’s still a good place to see rhinos, there are a couple of wonderful viewpoints and it’s a good stopover between the Mara and Ol Pejeta – but I probably wouldn’t include it as a main destination on your Kenya itinerary. Read more here .

How Many Days to Spend in Lake Nakuru National Park

1 day, for the reasons I mentioned above.

Things To Do in Lake Nakuru National Park

  • Go on safari to see the white rhinos.
  • Visit Baboon Cliff Viewpoint.

Where to Stay in Lake Nakuru National Park

  • Lake Nakuru Lodge : This is a great mid-range option in the park.

Lion eating a giraffe in the Masai Mara

Masai Mara National Reserve

The next stop on our Kenya itinerary is the incredible Masai Mara, home to the ‘Big Five’ and arguably the most famous safari destination in the world.

As well as game drives through the park, you can take a balloon ride to see it all from above (with a champagne breakfast at the end), which is especially cool if you time it when the Great Migration is passing through ”“ this varies slightly from year to year, but usually happens around July, August & September.

If you want an amazing and varied Masai Mara safari, I’d definitely recommend coming along on my Rock My Kenya & Tanzania Adventure . It’s a really special and awesome trip (if I do say so myself)!

How Many Days to Spend in the Masai Mara National Reserve

3 – 4 days. It takes at least half a day to get to and from the Masai Mara by road (from Nairobi), so I would suggest spending at least 3 nights here. You can save a bit of time by flying into Keekorok Airstrip and I believe they are considering making this an international airport – watch this space.

Things To Do in the Masai Mara National Reserve

  • Go on a Masai Mara safari.
  • See the wildebeest & zabra migration (usually July – October).
  • Spend time with the Maasai people.
  • Go hot-air ballooning.
  • Go on a horse riding safari.
  • Visit the Sekenani township.

Where to Stay in the Masai Mara National Reserve

  • Kobi Farm : My favourite place to stay is Kobi Farm, run by my friends who used to own Mara Explorers Camp.
  • Governor’s Camp : Beautiful tented camp in the heart of the Mara.
  • Mara Explorer Camp : Beautiful luxury camp, not to be confused with the old Mara Explorers Camp.
  • Angama Mara : One of the best, Angama Mara is the place to go if you’re looking for somewhere really special with an ‘Out of Africa’ romantic vibe.

Amboseli National Park, Kenya - Helen in Wonderlust

Amboseli National Park

When planning your Kenya itinerary, you should definitely consider Amboseli National Park, one of Kenya’s most iconic yet not that widely known travel destinations.

Amboseli is special for a couple of reasons, firstly for having one of the densest elephant populations in the world, and secondly for the fact that it lies at the base of Kilimanjaro, which provides an incredible backdrop for all of your photos. Simply magical!

Unless you fly between the Mara and Amboseli, you’ll probably need to stop over in Nairobi, otherwise, it would be a very long travel day.

Alternatively, you could also visit Tsavo National Park which is a little bit further on towards Mombasa.

How Many Days to Spend in Amboseli National Park

1 – 2 days. Allow yourself at least 1 full day to really enjoy your safari. Just be aware that the weather can affect the view of Kilimanjaro, so the longer you spend here, the more chance you will have for good views. 

Things To Do in Amboseli National Park

  • Spot elephants and other animals on safari.
  • Admire Kilimanjaro.
  • Visit the Maasai people.

Where to Stay in Amboseli National Park

  • Kibo Safari Camp : My favourite place to stay in Amboseli is Kibo Safari Camp which has great views of Kili from the rooms.
  • Amboseli Eco Camp : If you’re a fan of eco-camps, you might like to stay here.

Samburu National Reserve Kenya

Tsavo National Park

I first read about Tsavo National Park in one of my favourite books, Love, Life, and Elephants: An African Love Story by Daphne Sheldrick, founder of The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

Tsavo is famous for having lots and lots of elephants and is split into two sections, Tsavo West and Tsavo East.

How Many Days to Spend in Tsavo National Park

2 – 3 days. You could spend more if you hadn’t been on too many other safaris during your trip.

Mombasa Old Town - Helen in Wonderlust

Mombasa is a fantastic coastal city, with a very different feel to Nairobi. Whereas Nairobi is a very cosmopolitan, Mombasa has a distinct old-world, meets new-world Swahili flavour.

Mombasa is steeped in history, being one of the oldest and busiest ports on the African continent and is a great place to immerse yourself in Swahili culture.

Take a tour of the city and enjoy some of the great restaurants and bars too.

If you don’t go through Amboseli or Tsavo, you can easily get the train from Nairobi to Mombasa. Alternatively, you can also jump on the train at various different towns, including Voi, near to Tsavo National park. Booking in advance is advisable as the train almost always books up.

How Many Days to Spend in Mombasa

1 – 2 days. Mombasa is a great and important historical city, however, it’s not my favourite place in Kenya so a day or two is enough for me.

Things To Do in Mombasa

  • Take a city tour.
  • See the Mombasa tusks.
  • Visit Uhuru Park.
  • Explore the spice markets.
  • Visit Fort Jesus and the Old Town.
  • Shop for souvenirs.
  • Visit Haller Park and visit the Nguuni Wildlife Sanctuary.

Where to Stay in Mombasa

  • Tulia House : The main backpacker hangout in Mombasa is Tulia House. The bathrooms aren’t great, and the rooms are ok, but they have a pool and sociable bar, great for meeting new friends.
  • Best Western Plus Creekside : If you want somewhere reasonably priced, with nice views and close to town, check out this place.

Diani Beach - Kenya

Diani Beach

You can end your Kenya holiday in Diani, one of those picture-perfect locations, known for beautiful blue seas and white, sandy beaches. Diani is a popular honeymoon spot, as well as a backpacker favourite, so it’s a great place to add to your Kenya itinerary.

Whether you’re looking to relax, get adventurous or party – there’s something for everyone.

The trade winds make Diani a popular spot for kite surfing and it’s also one of the best places for sky diving in Africa.

At night, the backpackers tend to gather at Forty Thieves (although I believe it’s closed at the moment) which is always fun, especially on the weekend.

How Many Days to Spend in Diani Beach

2 – 3 days. Diani Beach is a great place to relax!

Things To Do in Diani Beach

  • Go skydiving over the Swahili coast.
  • Explore Shimba Hills National Reserve.
  • Take a dhow trip to Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park.
  • Relax on the beach and party the night away.

Where to Stay in Diani Beach

  • Stilts : Stilts is a backpacker place, set back from the beach in a jungle setting. It’s one of my favourites and you also get to use the facilities at their sister hotel, Flamboyant.
  • Flamboyant : Owned by the same people as Stilts, for mid-range, try Flamboyant is a nice choice, with a pool and lying directly on the beach.
  • AfroChic : For a more luxurious stay, check out AfroChic, part of the Elewana Collection.
  • Diani Villa : If you have a big group, I would suggest Diani Villa.

Kilifi Creek - Helen in Wonderlust

Kilifi, a town north of Mombasa, is one of my favourite places in Kenya.

I think a lot of this has to do with the incredible backpackers there, which is called Distant Relatives. It is truly is backpacker’s paradise and I’ve known many a person to go there for a couple of days and leave weeks, even months later.

The friendly, laid back-vibe tends to attract a lot of cool people including locals, independent travellers, so there’s always something going on and someone to hang out with.

You can spend your time relaxing in a hammock, swimming in the creek or the pool or taking a day trip out somewhere. There are lots of things to do in Kilifi.

Again, you could stay in Kilifi and easily explore Watamu and Malindi from there, but I guess your Kenya itinerary will depend on how much time you have – but the options are there!

How Many Days to Spend in Kilifi

How long is a piece of string? On a serious note, at least 2 full days.

Things To Do in Kilifi

  • See the bioluminescence in the waters of Kilifi Creek.
  • Relax on the white sands of Bofa Beach.
  • Sail on a traditional dhow boat.
  • Visit Vuma Cliffs.
  • Go snorkelling or scuba diving.
  • Take a village tour.

Where to Stay in Kilifi

  • Distant Relatives Ecolodge & Backpackers : I love Distant Relatives. It’s one of those places that people either really love or they don’t and lots of people get ‘stuck’ there. It’s got a strong hippy/eco/permaculture vibe if you’re into that!

Kilifi

Watamu & Malindi

North of Kilifi, you’ll find Watamu and Malindi, two beautiful beach towns and popular Kenya holiday destinations, both with plenty of activities, hotels and restaurants to keep you busy for a good few days, if not longer.

I’m putting these two together because they are so close to each other (approx 30 mins) – so you could stay in one place and enjoy both. Kilifi is also nearby, but Kilifi holds a special place in my heart, so Kilifi gets a section of its own.

You can fly to Malindi from Lamu or Nairobi, or you can get a local minibus (matatu) from Mombasa.

How Many Days to Spend in Watamu & Malindi

2 days + (more if you can) – is there such a thing as too much beach time?

Things To Do in Watumu & Malindi

  • Visit Arabuko Sokoke Forest.
  • Go scuba diving or snorkelling at Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve.
  • Explore the Gedi Ruins.
  • Relax on Golden Beach.
  • Hang out at Osteria Beach Restaurant.
  • Visit the Marafa Depression.
  • Do some watersports (SUP, surfing, kite surfing).

Where to Stay in Watamu & Malindi

  • White Elephant Sea Lodge : Beach lodge in Malindi.
  • Kobe Suite : Mid-range beach resort in Watamu.

Lamu - Kenya

Lamu, in northern Kenya, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and possibly the best place in the world to experience the traditional Swahili culture – even more so than Mombasa or Stone Town in Zanzibar .

Visitors to this sleepy island often spend much longer here than they intend to, sucked in by the laidback way of life. Spend your days getting lost in the alleyways, relaxing on the beaches and immersing yourself in this intoxicating place.

I absolutely love Lamu and wrote a whole Lamu travel guide to help you plan your own trip.

The road to Lamu is not known for being very safe, so it is advisable to fly. You can catch a flight from Nairobi, Mombasa or Malindi. Once you arrive, it’s a short ferry ride to Lamu from Manda Island.

How Many Days to Spend in Lamu

3 days at least. I spent 4 nights there and that was great, but I could have stayed longer. 

Things To Do in Lamu

  • Wander through Lamu town.
  • Visit the market, fort and the museum.
  • Take a trip on a dhow boat.
  • Go to a festival.
  • Go sunrise swimming and relax on Shela Beach.
  • Visit the donkey sanctuary.

Where to Stay in Lamu

  • Banana House & Wellness Centre : Check out this lovely Swahili house which also hosts retreats. This is where I stayed and I loved it!
  • Manda Bay : Manda Bay is a beautiful, boutique beach lodge.

I hope this helps you plan an amazing Kenya itinerary! Got any questions? Leave them in the comments below!

Other Kenya posts you might enjoy…

  • 25 Awesome Things to Do in Nairobi, Kenya
  • The Perfect 2-Week Kenya & Tanzania Itinerary (Plus Map, Tips & Things To Do)
  • A Little Guide to Lamu Island in Kenya
  • Planning a Trip to Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya – Everything You Need to Know
  • Kenya vs Tanzania – Which is the Best Country to Visit?
  • The Best Hostels, Guesthouses & Campsites in Kenya
  • How To Get Visas for Kenya & Entry Requirements Explained
  • 10 Unique Places To Visit in Northern Kenya
  • How to Travel to the Masai Mara on a Budget (Under $500)
  • A Guide to Visiting Samburu National Reserve in Kenya
  • Visiting the Umoja Women’s Village in Kenya
  • A Guide to Amboseli National Park – Kenya’s Most Iconic Unknown Safari Destination

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A Magical Kenya Itinerary with Things To See & Do

I love to travel all over the world, but it's Africa that holds a special place in my heart. My mission is to help people travel Africa in an authentic, safe, fun, adventurous and ethical way.

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Hello Helen, Hope you’ve been well. May name is maggy and i really enjoyed reading your blogs. I would have sent you a private message but there is no contact me link. I just started a blog and i’m looking for people who have traveled to my city to share there story. If interested it will be honor to feature your articles and pictures. send me a message and let me know if it’s an option

Best regards Maggy

Hi Helen! I will be in Kenya over the Christmas and New Year holiday this year. I am traveling solo (female) and wonder where in Kenya, and perhaps what hostel, you’d recommend to spend New Years Eve.

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  • Kenya Tours
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Great Kenya Itineraries: How Many Days to Spend?

Adventure in Africa

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If you are planning to visit only one African country, make it Kenya! This East African country is home to some of the world’s most famous wildlife reserves, including the iconic Maasai Mara. This enormous reserve is full of lions, cheetahs, elephants, zebras, hippos, and more. Lake Nakuru, yet another highlight, offers some of the country's most stunning scenery, while the lively capital of Nairobi is a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities.

  • Mark Bromley

How much time should I spend in Kenya?

The aerial view of a forest area in Masai Mara

If you are wondering how many days to spend in Kenya, then we suggest that you stay in the country as long as possible. However, since this is not an option, our advice is that you go for a Kenya trip that lasts at least five days and covers the highlights of the country’s southern safari circuit. While you will find safari tours that last shorter than that, it might not be worth traveling to a country like Kenya just for a long weekend.

If you have more time, then we suggest that you opt for a trip lasting between ten to 14 days instead. This duration does justice to popular wildlife destinations as well as a few hidden gems. With more time to spend, you can travel further north to Samburu to see rare animal species such as the East African oryx and the Somali ostrich.

5 days in Kenya

Sunset in Amboseli

Go for the shortest and probably the most popular wildlife safari loop during a five-day stay in Kenya. From Nairobi go for a safari in Maasai Mara , home to the Big Five . Spend two days exploring the wildlife reserve before heading for Lake Nakuru. We suggest giving at least a day to Lake Nakuru. However, just in case you are an avid birder, you might want to spend two days in this area, where thousands of flamingos line the shores and countless avian species flock every year. Drive back to Nairobi on the last day and catch your flight home.

For more inspiration, check out our list of 5-day Kenya trips .

7 Days in Kenya

Kenya provides a number of opportunities to enjoy the African savanna

You can squeeze a couple more destinations into your itinerary if you are looking forward to spending seven days in Kenya. Drive south from Nairobi to Amboseli National Park , which offers a breathtaking view of Mount Kilimanjaro and is famous for its large herds of wild elephants.

Next, continue to Lake Naivasha and see its extinct volcano, Mount Longonot. Go on an off-road safari trip through the grassy plains of Maasai Mara. A couple of days and safari later, you can then travel to Shaba National Reserve, where large prides of lions congregate under thickets during the day.

Browse through all our 7-day Kenya itineraries for more ideas.

10 days in Kenya

Kenya wildlife safari is famous among locals and tourists equally.

In addition to the destinations mentioned above, you can add the Aberdares range, located nearly four hours away from Nairobi, to your bucket list if you are planning to spend ten days in Kenya. Discover majestic peaks, cascading waterfalls, forested ravines, and vast moorlands as you hike through the mountain. Just in case you are lucky, you might get the chance to see long-haired colobus monkeys and the mountain bongo.

From there, you can continue to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, which has the highest concentration of large mammals in Kenya, including the rare reticulated giraffe and Grevy's zebras. Make your final pit stop at Lake Naivasha before returning to the capital.

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? Check out our 10-day itineraries in Kenya .

2-weeks in Kenya

View of the skyline in Nairobi

A two-week Kenya trip can easily include nine stops and take you from the south of the country to its northern tip. Spend a day taking in the sights and sounds of the capital city before heading for your first stop, the archaeological site of Olorgesaille. Here, you can go on a guided tour and learn more about how the first homo sapiens lived. Continue to Magadi Lake thereafter and enjoy a picnic lunch at the hot springs of Soda Ash.

Give two days to Lake Elementaita and Sleeping Warrior Hill, both of which are located in the Great Rift Valley. The shores of the lake provide refuge to numerous animal species, including zebras, gazelles, elands, and the rare Rothschild giraffe. Just in case you want to give your weary muscles some rest, the hot springs and geysers of Lake Bogoria are less than three hours away from the lake.

Next, switch up your trip with a visit to Iten, home to some of the best distance runners in the world. Then discover Lake Turkana and learn more about why this lake is a vast breeding ground for various species of crocodiles before making your way back to the capital city.

Go through our list of 2-week Kenya trips for more itinerary ideas.

Planning a trip to Kenya?

Get in touch with one of our travel experts in Kenya for a customized trip. If you’d like to book a package trip or join a group, check out our tours in Kenya .

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Safari in Kenya

Kenya's best safari reserves and camps.

Stuart Butler

Stuart Butler

  • In this guide
  • Samburu, Buffalo Springs & Shaba

Meru National Park

Lake nakuru national park, amboseli national park.

  • Nairobi National Park
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Kenya besides safari

  • Where to go
  • Need to know
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  • 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!)

Kenya masai mara safari elephants

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.

Elsa’s Kopje

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!

Masai Mara National Reserve

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.

Maili Saba

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

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

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!

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

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

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

Samburu Game Reserve

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

Tsavo East & West National Parks

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

Loita Hills

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

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 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

Kakamega Forest Reserve

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

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

Aberdare National Park

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

Lamu Island

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.

Mara North Conservancy

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Ostrich meru national park kenya

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.

Kenya besides safari

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

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

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

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

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.

Safari in Kenya

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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Passport & Pixels

A Kenya Safari Holiday: How To Plan The Perfect Trip For You

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Hi, my name’s Bella, and I’m a safari addict.

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I’ve visited 16 African countries and been on safari or wildlife-spotting in Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana , Uganda, South Africa and Ghana. I loved them all, but one of my favourite safari countries – and one that I’m hoping to revisit this year, is Kenya.

If you’re a wildlife and adventure lover like me, you might be tempted by the idea of doing a Kenya safari holiday. But if it’s your first time, it’s hard to know where to start. Where should you go? How do you plan? What do you need to look out for? The options can be overwhelming.

To help you get to grips with all the ins and outs, I’ve pulled together this article full of loads of facts about Kenya, things to consider, and stuff I wish I’d known more about before going on my first safari in Kenya.

Kenya safari holiday planning pinterest pin

About my Kenya safari photography

Before I begin, I’m also cheekily using this post as a way to show off some of the amazing photos I took in Kenya. Hopefully they’ll inspire you to actually go ahead and book that trip !

All these images were taken by me on a three-week Kenya safari holiday, using my Canon R5 . If you like any of them and fancy buying it, you can visit my print store here , and if there’s an image you like that’s not in the shop, contact me and I’ll add it!

Right, now let’s dive in!

The author, in a safari car with a camera resting on a beanbag, photographing cheetahs on safari in Kenya

Where should you visit on a Kenya safari holiday?

The first thing you need to decide when planning your safari holiday in Kenya is where you want to go.

Kenya is a huge country, covering 225,000 square miles (582,000 square km), making it about the same size as Texas.

Within that there are 23 national parks as well as a host of other game reserves, wildlife sanctuaries , marine parks and private conservancies, so you really are spoiled for choice when it comes to deciding where to go on safari in Kenya.

Read more: Kenya Vs Tanzania: Travel Experts Decide

A Kenya Safari Holiday: How To Plan The Perfect Trip For You

Conservancy, National Park or Reserve?

Before I list some of the top places to visit in Kenya, a quick word on the differences between national parks, conservancies and reserves. This is important to understand when planning your Kenya safari holiday because the rules and experience will differ depending on where you go.

National Parks in Kenya

National parks, like the Maasai Mara and Tsavo, are government-managed areas aimed at preserving wildlife and ecosystems. This is public land, no one is allowed to live here, and tourism and research are the only permitted activities. Visitors must follow strict rules, including sticking to the roads (off-road driving is banned). Anyone can visit or drive around in the National Parks, including day trippers, and you’re allowed to camp in designated campsites.

A wildebeest and tree silhouetted against a yellow sunset, photographed in the Maasai Mara while on a Kenya safari holiday

National Reserves in Kenya

National reserves are similar to National Parks. This is community land, but managed by the county government and Kenya Wildlife Service. The main point of the reserves is also to conserve wildlife, but some human activities are allowed, such as controlled grazing of livestock or managed use of some natural resources.

Kenya Conservancies

Conservancies are community land, or private land managed in partnership with local communities. While still a wildlife reserve, local people living in the area are also allowed to use the land in a managed way – and a portion of the money from tourism goes back into the community.

Since the land is free from government control there are fewer rules, and things like walking safaris, night drives, and off-road driving are allowed. Many don’t allow day-trippers, meaning you’ll get a more private safari experience if you stay in a conservancy.

I much prefer visiting the conservancies because you can usually get much closer to the wildlife, and without those huge queues of traffic you sometimes see in safari photos. But due to their exclusivity, it typically costs more to stay in a conservancy than around one of the National Parks.

Handsome male lion photographed on a Kenya safari holiday in Ol Pejeta conservancy

Top places to visit in Kenya

Now that you understand the differences between national parks, conservancies and reserves, here are some of the most popular ones you might want to visit on your Kenya safari holiday.

1/ The Maasai Mara

The Maasai Mara is probably the most celebrated National Park in the world. Spanning over 580 square miles (1,500 square kilometres), it sits in southwestern Kenya, sharing a border with the Serengeti in Tanzania (essentially it’s the same park, just divided between the two countries).

The ‘Mara’, as it’s nicknamed, is a picturesque green landscape, with expansive grasslands and volcanic hills, traversed by the Mara River. It’s home to a dizzying quantity of animals and bird species and offers sensational wildlife encounters, with a high concentration of big cats, and the spectacular annual wildebeest migration. While I don’t want to tell you what to do, it has to be said that most people consider the Maasai Mara an essential stop on any first-time safari to Kenya.

A car watches three giraffes in the Maasai Mara in Kenya

2/ The Mara Conservancies

Around the edges of the Maasai Mara National Park, you have the Mara Conservancies – community-managed land which shares boundaries with the national park. There are usually no fences, so the animals are free to come and go – meaning you can see the same wildlife but without the restrictions you get in the Mara proper.

Popular conservancies include Mara North (where I stayed), Olare Motorogi, Olderkesi and Naboisho, but there are others. Staying in a conservancy lets you get much closer to Africa’s incredible wildlife without the crowds, as well as offering a chance to give back to local communities and engage with them on cultural visits. I strongly recommend including a conservancy as part of your Kenya itinerary if you can.  

Four jackal puppies huddled together, photographed in the Mara North conservancy on safari in Kenya

3/ Ambroseli National Park

You’ve probably seen the iconic images of Kenya, featuring elephants standing on a green savanna plain with Mount Kilimanjaro behind. Those are all shot in Ambroseli, which sits in southern Kenya about 30 miles from Africa’s highest peak (which is actually in Tanzania).

As well as its epic views, Ambroseli is well-known for its large elephant herds, and is the second most popular national park in Kenya after the Maasai Mara. If you can manage to fit them both in on your Kenya safari holiday, you’re onto a winner!

Close up of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania

4/ Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks

Tsavo, in the southeast of Kenya near to Mombasa, is one of Kenya’s largest and oldest protected areas. It’s divided into two national parks – Tsavo East and Tsavo West – both known for their vivid orange soil, dramatic volcanic hills, and hardy wildlife including the iconic ‘red elephants’.

While the Maasai Mara is greener and busier, Tsavo is drier and more raw – a very different and arguably more adventurous wilderness experience. It doesn’t have the intense, overwhelming abundance of big game that you can see in the Mara, but there’s still plenty of wildlife, including the elusive wild dogs and many hundreds of bird species. I found that being constantly on the lookout for cats forced me to notice the smaller stuff, which was fascinating.

A pair of 'red' elephants in Tsavo, their skin stained red from the orange mud. Taken while on a Kenya safari holiday.

5/ Laikipia

The Laikipia region sits about 250 kilometres north-west of Nairobi in the shadow of Mount Kenya, the second highest peak in Africa. There’s no National Park here; instead there’s a network of smaller conservancies, many of which are former cattle ranches which were taken over and converted into wildlife reserves.

Much less visited than the Mara, Laikipia has become something of a poster-child for conservation and community engagement. Conservancies work hard to support a sustainable balance between tourism and local livelihoods, and conservation efforts are doing well: the rhino sanctuary at Ol Pejeta, for example, is now home to over 200 rhinos including the last surviving northern whites.

A pair of rhinos in the Ol Pejeta conservancy in Laikipia region, Kenya

6/ Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha

Lakes Nakuru and Naivasha are large lakes in the Great Rift Valley region, about 3-4 hours northwest of Nairobi (depending on which one you visit). Both are beautiful, peaceful lakes, teeming with bird life including pelicans and huge flocks of dazzling pink flamingos.

While Lake Nakuru National Park is more popular and is also home to high concentrations of African animals including lions, leopards, giraffes and hippos, Naivasha is quieter and great for relaxation in stunning surroundings. But since they’re only an hour apart, it’s easy enough to visit them both on your Kenya holiday.

Read more: Top 50 African Birds: A Safari Photo Guide

A huge flock of flamingos fills the air with blue sky behind

7/ Nairobi National Park

You don’t actually need to travel very far at all to see wildlife in Kenya – the capital, Nairobi, has its own National Park right on the doorstep. It might not have the expansive wilderness of any of the other parks I’ve mentioned, but it’s extremely accessible, and a great chance to take photos of lions, giraffes and rhinos with a backdrop of the city skyline. If you’re spending a day in Nairobi at the start of your Kenya safari holiday, this could be a cool place to have your first taster of Kenya’s incredible wildlife.

8/ Diani Beach

As well as buckling under the weight of its wildlife, Kenya also boasts some of the best beaches in Africa: long strips of perfect white sand coupled with the warm, turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. For this reason, many people choose to combine their Kenya safari holiday with a few days on the beach, and Diani is the most popular place to do that.

With a 10 mile stretch of beach and spectacular coral reefs, Diani is a brilliant place for water sports, including snorkelling and kite surfing. There’s also a huge range of luxury resorts, boutique hotels and budget accommodation to choose from. The only downside of Diani is that it’s a little notorious for ‘Beach Boys’, local salespeople who can be very persistent, but they can usually be avoided or put off with a firm ‘no thank you’.  

The beach and Indian Ocean at Diani with palm trees and sun loungers. Taken on holiday in Kenya.

If you want Kenya’s paradise coastal experience but without the hassle or the crowds, head to Vipingo instead. Located about an hour up the coast from Mombasa, this is a much less-touristy destination, with just a few hotels, and very quiet beaches.

You don’t get nearly as many options here in terms of resorts, restaurants and activities, but what you do get instead is complete quiet and seclusion. If you want to get away from it all and truly switch off at the end of your Kenya holiday, Vipingo is the place for you!

A room at Cardamom House in Vipingo, with colourful bedspread and rugs, mosquito net and a view of the ocean.

Where to stay: safari lodges or camps

Once you’ve decided the areas you want to stay in, the next thing you need to think about is the sort of accommodation you prefer. Here are the main options:

Safari lodges in Kenya

A safari lodge in Kenya is hotel accommodation located within or very close to the national parks and conservancies, meaning the wildlife is right on your doorstep (and often comes into the camp!). Lodges are normally gorgeously designed, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings, with thatched roofs and an open layout that allows guests to connect with the environment.

Safari lodges often boast upscale amenities, including spacious cabins or chalets, fine dining options and often a swimming pool. They can vary in size, levels of comfort and price, with high-end luxury and more affordable options.

The pool and main building at Kipalo Hills lodge in Tsavo

Tented camps

Tented camps are very similar to safari lodges – following a similar layout with individual rooms arranged around a central reception and dining area, right in the heart of the bush. The main difference is that accommodation is in large, fixed tents with ensuite bathrooms.

While some can be simple (but still comfortable), many tented camps in Kenya are extremely luxurious: essentially just gorgeous luxury hotel rooms with canvas walls.

Inside a luxury safari tent with huge bed and elegant decor. Taken on safari in Kenya.

Mobile safaris

A mobile safari in Kenya is a thrilling way to truly immerse yourself in nature. Unlike the fixed camps, mobile safaris involve moving the campsite every few days, which allows you to explore a region in almost complete seclusion and visit areas not reachable in a day from the fixed camps.

A mobile camp usually consists of spacious walk-in safari tents with comfortable beds and en-suite facilities – no roll mats or sweaty sleeping bags here.  While more basic than permanent lodges, mobile safaris still offer a fully catered experience, meaning you can enjoy the back-to-nature experience while someone else does all the hard work for you!

A herd of nine elephants standing on grass with trees behind, photographed on a Kenya safari holiday

Campsites in Kenya

You probably don’t need me to tell you what a campsite is! Bring your own car, your own tent, cook your meals over a camping stove, you know the drill. The difference in Kenya is that the campsites are in the National Parks (and occasionally some of the conservancies) and that means you really are at the heart of the action, with the chance of an animal encounter at any moment!

Facilities are minimal, including communal areas, shared bathroom facilities, and sometimes open-air dining spaces. Camping in a Kenyan National Park is not for the faint-hearted, but what you lose in luxury you gain in cost-efficiency and the chance to really immerse yourself in the Kenya wildlife experience.

A typical campsite in Kenya: this one is in Tsavo East National Park, with a flat area for pitching tents, and picnic tables

Sustainability and responsible travel

Something it’s really important to think and ask questions about when planning your Kenya safari holiday is responsible and sustainable tourism.

Being able to afford to travel is an incredible privilege, but gone are the days when you could just hop on a long-haul flight with no thought for the environment or local people. Travel can be a brilliant force for good, but it can also be destructive and damaging. We all need to make sure that whatever we do and wherever we go, we’re sitting on the right side of that scale.

Many safari companies are leading the way in environmentally-friendly initiatives and projects that support and give back to local communities – but not all of them are as good, so do check before you book.

Two Maasai men wearing traditional Maasai dress, photographed on an African safari in Kenya

Here are some things to think about or questions you can ask your tour operator or safari company:

  • Conservation: What conservation initiatives does the company support or participate in? How do they contribute to wildlife conservation and habitat protection?
  • Community support: How does the company engage with local communities near safari destinations? Do they support any community development projects or initiatives?
  • Wildlife protection: What measures do they take to minimize the impact of tourism on wildlife? How do they educate clients about responsible wildlife viewing and behaviour during safaris?
  • Sustainability: Can they provide information about the eco-friendly practices of the lodges or camps? Do they follow environmental guidelines, such as waste reduction, recycling, energy conservation, using fuel-efficient vehicles and water management?
  • Guides and staff: Are guides and staff trained in responsible tourism practices? Do they make efforts to hire and train from the local community? Are staff paid a fair wage and looked after properly?
  • Client Education: How do they educate guests about how to be responsible before and during the safari? Are there guidelines provided regarding ethical behaviour and environmental responsibility?

A team from Kipalo Hills lodge in Tsavo, handing emergency food to a struggling family

Some companies try to get away with ‘greenwashing’ – making big claims about their eco credentials that they don’t really put into practice – so it’s really important to push back on this stuff and listen carefully to the answers.

And let me tell you, it’s a really rewarding feeling when you do go somewhere where things are being done right, and you can relax with that warm fuzzy feeling of knowing that your lovely holiday is also helping to conserve wildlife and support local communities. Win-win!

The author and her guide Chris, enjoying lunch together in Tsavo National Park, Kenya

Getting around Kenya

Another thing to consider in your planning is how you want to get around.

By road: Kenya is a huge country and some of the main National Parks are pretty far apart. While you can drive and the main roads are good, the long journeys will eat into your game viewing and relaxing time! For shorter distances though, there are no problems with travelling by road.

By plane: Many people choose to make short transfers between parks and lodges by light aircraft. There’s a huge network of small internal airports and airstrips connected by short hop internal flights run by companies like SafariLink and Mombasa Air. If you’re travelling solo or in a couple, these may well work out cheaper than having a private car and driver.

A group disembarking from a small Mombasa Air plane. Many Kenya safari tours arrange for you to get around by small planes like this.

By train: Kenya also has some pretty decent trains, including ones that run between Nairobi and Mombasa, Nairobi to Naivasha and Nakuru, and you can even travel by train all the way to Kampala, Uganda !

I caught the train from Nairobi to Voi (to visit Tsavo West) and then from Voi to Mariakani (to stay at Cardamom House near Vipingo ) and both journeys were air-conditioned, comfortable and on time.

Inside the first class carriage on the train from Nairobi to Voi in Kenya, with plus red seats

What activities can you do on a safari holiday in Kenya?

Another very important thing you’ll want to consider is what sort of activities you want to do on your safari in Kenya. While heading out to spot wildlife is the main reason you’re there, there are lots of other things you might want to throw into the mix. Here are some options:

Game drives

Game drives are the main activity on safari, and you’ll want to do a lot of these (if not, why are you doing a safari?). They take place in the early mornings and late afternoons when the weather is cooler and animals are more active, and essentially consist of driving around in converted jeep or land cruiser with an expert guide who knows how to look for wildlife. Unless you’re self-driving, you’ll either be with your group, or a few other people staying in the same lodge, but there are usually no more than six to a vehicle so everyone gets a window seat.

A woman looks out of a car window at a male lion sitting in front of a bush, on a Kenya safari trip

Guided nature walks

Some safari destinations offer guided nature walks or walking safaris, allowing you to explore the flora and fauna on foot with an experienced guide (who is usually armed in case of emergency encounters with aggressive wildlife). This is a really cool way to learn more about the environment and notice the smaller things that you’d usually miss from the back of a car.

Read more: 46 Amazing African Safari Animals – A Photo Guide

Five people on a walking safari in Tsavo. Kenya

Cultural visits

Don’t forget that as well as having incredible wildlife, Kenya has wonderful people: friendly helpful, enthusiastic, and with vibrant culture that they’re keen to share. Many lodges work with local communities to offer well-thought-out, sensitive visits to local villages where you get a chance to meet them and learn about how they live. Others let you visit the community projects they support, so you can see how your money is being spent.

The Maasai, with their eye-catching red dress, are the most famous, but there are actually more than 40 tribes in Kenya with their own lifestyles, customs and languages. A visit to meet them is a really interesting and inspiring thing to do, so I highly recommend including at least one cultural visit on your Kenya safari itinerary.

Two young Maasai men, photographed on holiday in Kenya

Hot air balloon safaris

Not for the broke or the faint-hearted, hot air balloon rides are a bucket-list thing to do in the Maasai Mara, allowing you to fly low and quietly over herds of animals and admire the wide open landscapes from the air. They’re particularly popular with honeymooners for that once-in-a-lifetime, memorable experience (which might possibly be why I’ve never done one!)

Photography safaris

If you’re anything like me, one of things you’ll be most excited about in Kenya are the photography opportunities. With glorious landscapes, mind-blowing wildlife and stunning sunrises and sunsets, Kenya is one of the best nature photography destinations in the world.

Some safari companies have leant into this, with cars specially kitted out with mounts or beanbags for your camera, schedules that make the most of the best light, expert photography guides who can help you with your framing and settings, and some will even lend you gear. If you want to come home with dazzling wildlife photos to wow your friends and family, this could be just the thing for you. Prepare your wallets though, because these are among the more expensive types of safari holidays in Kenya.

The author with her back to the camera and camera to her face, photographing a herd of elephants on safari in Kenya

Bush Dinners and Breakfasts

If you’re celebrating a special occasion, are planning a proposal, or just want to do something a bit different, some safari lodges arrange meals in creative outdoor settings, for a unique and memorable dining experience.

Conservation and research experiences

Conservation is at the forefront of the entire safari experience – without it, there would be no safaris! So what better way to make the most of your Kenya trip than by visiting a wildlife sanctuary or conservation project. For example, in Nairobi National Park you can visit the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s elephant orphanage ; or in Ol Pejeta conservancy you can visit both a chimpanzee sanctuary and the last two remaining northern white rhinos. These are just two examples of many, so ask your tour operator or lodge what else is available near you.

A rhino stands next to a safari car while the keeper takes a photo, Ol Pejeta, Kenya

This isn’t really a ‘safari’ activity but I’m just putting it out there – if you want to do something a bit more fit and active during your Kenya holiday, there are plenty of hiking opportunities too. Not least, if you’re heading to Laikipia or Samburu, hiking around the mighty Mount Kenya, or if you’re feeling more adventurous, even attempting the summit, the second highest peak in Africa after Kilimanjaro .

The peak of Mount Kenya looms over the plains in Laikipia, Kenya

Kenya safaris FAQs

Is kenya the best place to go on safari for the first time.

The first place I went on safari was South Africa, followed by Tanzania , and they were both brilliant. But Kenya is also an excellent choice. It’s the world’s top safari destination, with a huge range of places to visit and things to see and do, at prices to suit all budgets. If you book a safari in Kenya with a reputable operator, you really can’t go wrong.

A male lion eating the remains of a buffalo, photographed on a safari tour in Kenya

Read more: 19 Easy Wildlife Photography Tips For Beginners

What is the weather like in Kenya?

Being on the equator, Kenya doesn’t have summer and winter, it has wet and dry seasons.

The country has two distinct rainy seasons: the ‘long rains’ from March to May, with heavy rainfall, and the ‘short rains’, from October to December. In between, dry seasons are June to October (typically a little cooler) and January to March (with hotter temperatures).

However the rains are very unpredictable and may arrive early or late, or not at all! Temperatures can vary a lot depending on the time of day and also if you’re at altitude. The Laikipia District, for example, is on a plateau in the Rift Valley at about 1500 m above sea level, so it’s cooler. The same goes for Nairobi, which is at 1,795 m asl. Nights can be cold and you should pack some warm layers , but days can warm up very quickly when the sun comes up.

When I visited in October, nights were cool with temperatures around 15 degrees C (59 F) and days warmed to about 30 degrees C (86 F). There was some rain in the afternoons, but not much.

A group on a Kenya safari holiday, standing in front of their cars wearing fleeces and ponchos

When is the best time to go to Kenya?

The best time to go on safari in Kenya depends on what you prefer and what kinds of experiences you’re looking for. It isn’t really as simple as saying ‘go during the dry season!’

This is considered the best time for wildlife viewing as the vegetation is sparse and animals are forced to come to waterholes to drink, making it easier to spot them. It’s also the migration period for wildebeest and zebras in the Maasai Mara, typically occurring from July to October.

BUT – as a consequence the dry season is more expensive and more crowded, so if your budget is tight you’ll get more bang for your buck if you go in shoulder or low seasons.

A lion drinks from a small pool, photographed by the author on a Kenya safari trip

The rains bring vibrant green landscapes, baby animals, and abundant migratory birds. It’s also cheaper and quieter, with fewer tourists.

BUT – wildlife can be harder to see due to dense vegetation, and roads can become muddy and impassable.

A car observes four rhinos grazing by the side of a muddy road on a Kenya safari holiday

How many days do you need for safari in Kenya?

Kenya is truly magical, so I’d say go for as long as you can afford and have time for! But being more realistic, most people find that somewhere between 1-2 weeks is a good amount of time. A week will be cheaper and will certainly leave you wanting more; ten days to two weeks will allow you to visit 3-4 different destinations for a really packed trip.

That said, I spent three weeks in Kenya and it still wasn’t enough for me!

On of my favourite photos from my safari holiday in Kenya: a close up of a giraffe eating from a tree

Is Kenya safe?

Kenya is generally considered a safe destination for safaris, and millions of tourists visit the country each year without encountering major issues. The safari destinations, including national parks and wildlife reserves, are well-regulated and secure.

If you’re worried about the animals – don’t be. Animals are used to the cars and guides are fully trained. As long as you follow their instructions at all times and don’t do anything stupid like get out of the car or wander alone at night, you’ll be fine.

There are some areas of Kenya that are considered more risky due to potential security concerns, and should be avoided. This includes areas along the borders with Somalia, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. However these aren’t safari destinations, so are unlikely to be an issue for you.

In more crowded areas like Nairobi and Mombasa you may be at risk of the same security issues as in any big city, so be careful, don’t go out alone after dark, and don’t flash valuable items about.

A lioness and her cub walking towards three safari cars in a Kenya National Park

How much does a Kenya safari cost?

Ahh, the big question. And being totally upfront, a safari is not a cheap holiday. Even if you stay in lower cost accommodation options, by the time you add in food, transport, park fees, and activities, the costs can soon rack up.

However, of all the different safari countries, Kenya is actually one of the cheapest, and you do get a lot of value for money here.

Of course, there are tonnes of variables, including how long you stay, the type of accommodation you choose, the specific destinations visited, the time of year, and the level of luxury you go for. Most packages are all-inclusive so there are no hidden surprises – apart from tips and any personal things you may want to buy, all accommodation, food, drinks, transport and activities are usually included in the price.

A pair of curious zebras, photographed by me on an African safari in the Maasai Mara

But I know you want the full deets, so here’s a very general, ballpark kind of idea. Prices are correct at the time of writing but if you want to know more, head to Safari Bookings to get the latest prices and ask for quotes.

Budget safaris , often using more basic accommodation and transport, can start from around $150 to $250 per person per day. These safaris may have shared facilities and less luxurious amenities.

Mid-range safaris , which typically include comfortable accommodation, transport, and guided tours, can range from $250 to $600 per person per day.

Luxury safaris , offering high-end lodges or tented camps, premium services, and exclusive experiences, can start from $600 per person per day and go up to several thousand dollars per day.

Group safaris . If you’re a solo traveller or a couple, a group safari can be much more cost-effective than a private or customized safari. Check out companies like Intrepid or G Adventure s for group options.

A luxury safari tent with a double bed and seating area, in a tented safari camp in Kenya

How to book your Kenya safari holiday

Safaris are complicated things with many moving parts. While in theory you can organise it all yourself, that would involve a lot of time and research, and if one part of the jigsaw falls down, you’re on your own.

So a safari is the one type of holiday where unless you’re an expert, it’s almost always better and less stressful to book a package through a reputable tour operator or safari specialist . In many cases the package deals they can get you will be better than anything you could arrange yourself anyway.

Some companies offer bespoke packages designed to fit your exact specifications, while others offer ‘off-the-peg’ trips already priced up, so you can see exactly what you’re getting.

With any safari package it’s important to make sure you check what’s included in the price, such as accommodations, meals, flights, ground transport, park fees, and activities.

A close up of a giraffe against a blue sky, photographed in the Maasai Mara Kenya

Where to next?

Why not try some of my other Africa and wildlife posts?

  • Visiting The Magical Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Uganda
  • Seeing Wildlife In Uganda: A Murchison Falls Safari
  • Leroo La Tau In Botswana: See The Incredible Zebra Migration
  • Chobe Safari Lodge In Botswana: A Complete Review With Photos
  • A Magical Trip Whale Watching in Mirissa, Sri Lanka

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Bella is a multi-award-winning travel writer, wildlife photographer and science and history documentary director from London. Among many awards and nominations she won Blogger of the Year at the British Guild of Travel Writers’ Awards 2023 and Best Photography at the Travel Media Awards 2020. Her work has been published by National Geographic, Wanderlust, and BBC Travel among others. Her films have been shown around the world including on the BBC, Discovery and PBS.

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Kenya Safaris - Ultimate First Safari Guide

Home / Destinations / Kenya

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with our comprehensive guide to Kenya safaris for first-timers. Our expert travel guide will help you discover the best wildlife reserves, national parks, and accommodation options in Kenya, while providing valuable tips and tricks from experienced safari-goers. From the stunning landscapes of Maasai Mara to the majestic Mount Kenya, our guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your safari experience in Kenya.

As the pioneer safari destination and one of the leading African safari destinations, Kenya is renowned for its spectacular wildlife shows, making it a top choice for family vacations. Our guide will help you plan an unforgettable adventure in Kenya, outshining other East African destinations. Whether you're planning your first or third safari, our travel guide is packed with the best ideas to help you create memories that will last a lifetime.

KENYA SAFARIS TRAVEL GUIDE

You have made a great decision by selecting Kenya Safaris for your first wildlife adventure in Africa. As the pioneer safari destination and one of the leading African safari destinations, Kenya is renowned for its spectacular wildlife shows , making it a top choice for family vacations and first-time safari experiences in Africa. Our guide is packed with the best ideas to help you create memories that will last a lifetime, outshining other East African destinations.

Kenya is a land of astonishing diversity and extraordinary tourist attractions, perfect for wilderness adventure vacations. Nairobi, the capital, is a bustling city where colonial buildings rub shoulders with modern skyscrapers, while steamy, coastal Mombasa retains its solid Arabic influence and history as Kenya's largest and busiest port. Kenya lies on Africa's east coast, bordered by Uganda to the west, Tanzania to the south, South Sudan and Ethiopia to the north, Somalia to the northeast, and the Indian Ocean to the southeast.

When planning your first-time safari in Africa, Kenya is an excellent destination to explore. It's also a great addition to gorilla trekking in neighboring Uganda or Rwanda. Don't miss out on the coastal beaches, which are a perfect getaway vacation to end your Kenya safari. Let our expert guide help you plan your unforgettable adventure in Kenya safaris as a first-time safari-goer.

  • Explore the Great Rift Valley dotted with a string of lakes including Nakuru and Naivasha; fertile highlands with towering peaks such as Mt. Kenya; and a coastline and islands with long pristine sandy beaches and marine parks full of coral reefs and colorful fish. Its two major cities couldn’t be more different.
  • The Big Five are all present and seen with various degrees of ease. Elephants, buffaloes, and unusually large lion prides are common. Leopards are more elusive but relatively easy to locate with a local pro guide. Up to three dozen black rhinos still survive. Even outside of the migration season, ungulates are well represented; there’s no better place for close-up views of the eland, the world’s largest antelope. A Kenya safari game drive will likely see giraffe, impala, gazelle, topi, Coke’s hartebeest, reedbuck, Defassa waterbuck, hippo, and warthog.
  • Birders will find East Africa’s magnificent savanna birdlife around the Mara triangle, with more than 500 species recorded in and around its borders, including such perennial favorites as Lilac-breasted roller, Superb starling, and Little bee-eater.
  • During annual wildebeest migration, wildlife drama eclipses during the multiple river crossings, punctuating the great herds’ three-month tenure in the Masai Mara, from August to October.

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The Great Migration

Over two million wildebeest and zebra cross the Mara river sometime between July and August, and they repeat this every year in larger numbers. It's not just the gnu that would attract you here, but also the healthy number of predators looking for an easy meal. This spectacle is not to be missed, especially if it's your first safari in Kenya.

Why Kenya Safaris Are Great For Your First Safari

Millions of plains game move in an endless cycle of birth and death from Tanzania's Serengeti through Kenya's Mara Triangle. It's like a movie sequence when they cross the Mara River with predators and prey locked in a life or death dance, the most extraordinary wilderness spectacle on earth that should take you to Kenya.

Big Game Viewing

Visiting Kenya’s legendary national parks and game reserves almost guarantees that you’ll see the famous Africa safari's Big Five animal popularised by the colonial white hunters in the early birth of Africa safari. And where there's big game, there are definitely huge herds of plains animals and hundreds of colorful birds.

Mythical Nomadic Tribes

Maasai communities lie within the Maara bounds and other famous game reserves. The tall and dignified red-robed Maasai have held explorers, adventurers, and writers in thrall for centuries. Cultural adventure excursions in Maasai villages to view men herding livestock and women carrying water or firewood are common on safari vacations.

Beach Escapes

Miles of white sandy beaches lined by an azure ocean and water sports galore. From diving and snorkeling to windsurfing, adrenalin sports to simple seaside fun, sipping sundowners, to deep-sea diving, some of the Kenya safari's last magical moments happen at the coastline.

Historical Adventures

Check out ancient history along the coast where Arab traders and Vasco da Gama once sailed. In the tiny UNESCO World Heritage town of Lamu, you’ll find an Arabic way of life unchanged for centuries.

Gorillas Are Near

Kenya is a close neighbor to Uganda and Rwanda, who host the mythical endangered mountain gorillas. It's now simple to connect a Kenya Safari to a Uganda gorilla safari with local flights between the destinations.

COSTS FOR KENYA SAFARIS (USD)

Most Kenya lodges refer to an all-inclusive (full-board) per person rate, including taxes, and assuming double occupancy. A few lodges operate on a half-board rate, and rare ones offer bed & breakfast except city hotels.

TAILOR-MADE KENYA SAFARIS

family Safari for Teenagers

Family Safari Holiday With Teenagers

8 Days | Best for Teenagers Nairobi, Laikipia & Masai Mara

Masai Mara & Gorilla Trekking Safari in Kenya and Uganda

Masai Mara & Gorilla Trekking Safari

10 Days | Fly-in Kenya & Uganda Entebbe, Bwindi, Masai Mara, Nairobi

Family Safari Holiday, Masai Mara & Mobasa coastal beach

Kenya Family Safari Holiday With Kids

10 Days | Best for Kids 4-10 yrs Nairobi, Masai Mara & Mombasa Beach

Classic Luxury Safari Holiday

Classic Kenya Luxury Safari Holiday

13 Days | Pure Luxury Travel Nairobi, Tsavo, Laikipia & Masai Mara

BEST PLACES FOR FIRST SAFARI IN KENYA

Unfortunately, you probably won’t be able to see all the best places for your first safari in Kenya on one trip; they're just too many. Must-See Parks places in Kenya include Masai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park, Tsavo West, and the Laikipia Plateau. The if-you-have-time Parks include Nairobi National Park, Meru National Park, Samburu National Reserve, Lakes Nakuru, and Naivasha. When planning your first safari in Kenya, we advise that you research all of them before you take your pick.

MASAI MARA - BEST PLACE FOR FIRST SAFARI IN KENYA

Masai Mara National Reserve

Masai Mara is a world-renowned wildlife paradise and a perfect scene for wildlife photographers. It's the top attraction first-time visitors to Kenya should visit. Easily spot large predators such as lion, leopard, cheetah, and Spotted hyena at close quarters all year round. The reserve truly blossoms between August and October, when the legendary wildebeest migration - perhaps the world's most incredible wildlife spectacle - crosses into Kenya from Tanzania.

Amboseli National Park - great place for Africa safari

Amboseli National Park

Kilimanjaro’s snowcapped peak, massive herds of elephants, and quintessential Kenyan landscape (open plains, acacia woodland, grasslands, bush, and marshland) greet you along the Tanzanian border. Amboseli offers excellent African game viewing, second only to Masai Mara. It is a common choice for wildlife photography safari in Kenya and a great addition to a Mara migration safari.

Satao Elerai Camp in Tsavo east

Tsavo East & West

Tsavo West and East National Parks. Tsavo West and Tsavo East are home to peaceful lion prides and loads of other savannah wild game. Split by the Mombasa Highway, their proximity to the coast makes them a great choice for those who want to combine beach and beasts.

Laikipia Plateau kenya conservancy

Laikipia Plateau

This region has become one of Kenya's hottest game destinations with some of Kenya's classiest camps and lodges. The nearby Samburu National Reserve boasts unusual dry-country species of animals and birds.

Laikipia safari guide

If you have time, also visit these places

Although the travel reviews go into great detail about the must-see parks in Kenya, there are many other attractions to explore if you have time. Here are a few good ones our travelers typically choose to add on their first Africa safari in Kenya.

Nairobi National Park, Kenya Safari

Nairobi National Park

The most striking thing about Nairobi National Park, Kenya’s oldest national park (established in 1946), is the very fact that it exists at all. This sliver of unspoiled Africa survives on the edge of a city of more than 3.5 million people. Where else can you get a photo of animals in their natural habitat with a backdrop of skyscrapers?

Meru National Park, set for Elsa the lioness in Born Free Film - best for off the beaten track kenya safaris

Meru National Park

This little-visited park (699 square miles) offers some of Kenya’s wildest country but does not feature on the mainstream safari circuit. Meru is where wildlife guardians Joy and George Adamson hand-reared Elsa , the lioness made famous by the 1966 film Born Free .

Olerai Naivasha

Lake Naivasha

One of the Rift Valley’s few freshwater lakes, Lake Naivasha is a popular spot for day trips and weekends away from Nairobi. Although the lake is not part of a national park or game reserve, it has pleasant forested surroundings, which are a far cry from the congestion and noise of Nairobi, and there is plentiful wildlife around.

lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya Safari

Lake Nakuru

This delightful and compact park covers around 188 square km (73 square miles) and completely surrounds Lake Nakuru on the floor of the Great Rift Valley. Until a few years ago, it was most famous for the hundreds of thousands of flamingos that fed on the algae in the shallows. Nevertheless, Nakuru National Park is still a very rewarding and easy park to visit.

Samburu National Reserve, kenya

Samburu National Park

“In the far northeast of the Laikipia Plateau, north of Mt. Kenya, is the remote Samburu National Reserve. Lying in the traditional homeland of the Samburu people in hot, arid, and relatively low country on the fringes of Kenya’s vast northern deserts, this reserve is highly regarded by experienced travelers and old Africa hands alike.

Nairobi City, Kenya capital and east africa safari travel hub

East Africa’s economic and logistics hub is Kenya’s capital Nairobi. Because almost every wildlife safari vacation starts and ends in the capital city, it is hard for any traveler to miss Nairobi. Nairobi presents the authentic everyday African urban life, especially the city’s leafy suburbs, where the most exciting attractions are found.

Experience the ultimate safari adventure during the final days of your trip along the Kenya coast.

Holidays at the Kenya coast

Kenya is home to one of Africa's most intriguing and historically essential coastlines, perfect for introducing travelers on their first safari in Kenya to Africa's coastline, away from the safari hooves, canines, and claws. The Kenyan coast stems from extraordinary natural beauty. It is home to marine parks, bustling coral reefs, and bird-filled coastal forests, all of which make for a fabulously diverse holiday after your inland wildlife safari. The southern Kenya coast presents perfect don't-make-me-think beach holidays with Diani, Galu, and Funzi beaches standing out getaways for honeymooners and romantics. Suitable for diving and great for deep-sea fishing, Mombasa is Kenya's beach destination for the younger, more social crowd, which means excellent restaurants, nightclubs, and adventures. And Mombasa's airport means easy combining a Kenya safari with a coastal beach holiday .

Kenya Travel Essentials

How to get there.

Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi and Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa are the two main international airports, with most domestic flights departing from Wilson Airport (WIL) in Nairobi. Kenya has a well-established network of domestic and regional airlines, with airports in major towns and well-maintained airstrips in safari destinations.

Kenya Safaris transfers are typically provided from the airstrip to accommodations, and schedules for safari airlines often work in circuits. Several airlines offer affordable direct flights to Kenya, including Kenya Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and British Airways. Domestic airlines such as Kenya Airways, Jambojet, and Fly540 provide daily flights to several regional destinations. Charters are also available, although more expensive than scheduled flights. Baggage allowance is usually 15 kg per person on small planes, and self-drive safaris are an option, with several car rental companies offering 4x4s and driver services.

Self-drive safaris in Kenya are available for those who prefer road travel, though poor road conditions in some areas can cause longer driving times. Car rental companies specializing in 4x4s typically offer driver services, with rates starting at around $110 per day for a 4×4 and $20 per day for a driver. Major highways connect Nairobi to other towns and cities. Driving from Nairobi to the Masai Mara, a 150-mile/240-km journey takes about five hours. Long-distance travel by bus is available but not recommended for safari travel.

Kenya is a visa-free country from January 2024. To boost tourism and attract more foreign investments to Kenya, the government removed all visa requirements for all foreign nationals visiting and transiting through Kenya starting January 2024.

The vacated visa requirements have been replaced by the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. Everyone (except East African Community Nationals) must register at https://www.etakenya.go.ke/ before they come to the country; at least 3 days in advance.

  • The ETA fee for all is $30
  • You will need a valid passport
  • Credit or Debit Card to make payment.

Best time for Kenya Safari

Kenya safaris can be enjoyed year-round, and the best time to visit depends on personal preferences, budget, and travel plans. The period between January and March and June to September is generally considered the peak season , with friendly weather conditions and abundant wildlife activity. However, the rainy season between mid-March to June and October to December is also an excellent time to visit if you want to avoid crowds and take advantage of off-season discounts.

If you are interested in witnessing the great migration in Masai Mara , the best time to visit is between mid-August and late October when the wildebeest and zebra herds cross the border from Serengeti National Park . There is no wildebeest movement from January through to June in Masai Mara, so plan your trip accordingly.

Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast is hot and humid all year round, with the possibility of rainfall at any time. However, it is best to avoid the coast between mid-March and late May when temperatures and rainfall are highest.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Kenya depends on your preferences and travel plans. Consider your priorities and consult with a trusted travel agent or local tour operator for more information and personalized recommendations.

Money, Banks & Tipping

The official currency in Kenya is the Kenyan shilling (KSH), with notes available in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 shillings and coins available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, and 20 shillings.

Most things in Kenya are priced and paid for in KSH, but some tourist businesses like hotels, safari companies, and airlines may quote prices in both U.S. dollars and shillings. If paying with dollars, make sure to check that you are getting a fair exchange rate.

When exchanging U.S. dollars at a bank or bureau de change, it’s best to bring new and undamaged notes as old, worn, or damaged bills may not be accepted.

Banks in Kenya typically open at 8:30 am on weekdays and close at 4 pm, with some opening at 9 am and closing at noon on Saturdays. Banks are closed on Sundays and public holidays. Many ATMs in Kenya are available 24 hours a day.

Most banks in Kenya offer foreign exchange services or international electronic transfers. It’s best to avoid banks at their busiest times, especially on Fridays at 9 am and from noon to 2 pm, as well as at the end of the month. Major banks in Kenya include Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB), Barclays, National Bank of Kenya, and Standard Chartered.

Credit cards are widely accepted in Kenya, but it’s easier to withdraw shillings from an ATM for small amounts like restaurants, shopping, taxi fares, fuel, and tips. Most ATMs in Kenya dispense large denomination notes, so try to break them whenever possible, as taxi drivers and souvenir vendors often don’t have change for large bills.

Major credit cards, such as Visa and MasterCard, are accepted at Kenyan banks and ATMs. Most ATMs accept Cirrus, Plus, Maestro, Visa Electron, Visa, and MasterCard. To ensure safety, it’s best to use an indoor ATM, preferably at the airport, in a shopping mall, or guarded by a security officer.

Tipping in Kenya is not mandatory, but it’s customary to give a tip of 10% in restaurants and to porters. Some hotels, safari lodges, and tented camps have a gratuity box for guests to tip all the staff at the end of their stay. It’s recommended to tip your safari driver and guide approximately US$10–US$15 per person, per day. Tipping taxi drivers is not necessary, as the fare is usually determined before setting off.

Hotels, Lodges & Camps

Kenya offers a wide variety of safari accommodations, ranging from intimate tented camps and luxurious boutique hotels to mid-range safari lodges, beach resorts, local lodgings, and campsites. Lodge prices are usually all-inclusive, covering accommodations, meals, and activities such as game drives and walks. It’s important to find out in advance if park fees (US$40 to US$100 per day) are included. When choosing accommodations in Kenya, consider your budget, travel style, and preferences. Do your research, read reviews, and book in advance to secure your preferred choice.

Nairobi has many hotels, including international chains, charming independent hotels, and older establishments with colonial ambiance. Accommodations on the coast range from luxurious honeymoon hideaways to all-inclusive family beach resorts. On Lamu, some beautifully restored historic Arabic houses have opened as hotels. Standard prices usually include a full English breakfast, and other meals are typically available in the hotel’s restaurant.

Overall, it’s essential to book in advance during high season and look out for specials during the low season or rainy months. When choosing accommodations, keep in mind that hotel rates in Nairobi and other towns tend to remain the same throughout the year, while room prices in wildlife and coastal areas are seasonal. Consider your priorities and preferences and consult with a trusted travel agent or local tour operator for more personalized recommendations.

Travel Safety

Although Kenya is generally a safe country, visitors should take basic precautions to avoid becoming victims of crime.

In big towns, mugging, purse snatching, and pickpocketing can occur. Leave valuable jewelry and watches at home, and keep cameras, camcorders, and binoculars out of sight, unless you’re on safari. Lock your valuables in the hotel or lodge safe, or use a money belt under your clothes. Don’t leave belongings on balconies or terraces, and avoid showing them in a vehicle. If you become a victim of robbery, you’ll need a police report to make an insurance claim, so bring copies of all essential documents and keep them separate from the originals. Carry extra passport photos in case you need new documents quickly.

Take a taxi after dark, and don’t accept food or drinks from strangers. Be aware of street scams and appeals for money. If you’re driving, be polite but firm if stopped by police officers charging an instant fine for a minor infraction. If you ask to go to the police station, charges are often dismissed.

Terrorist zones are in Kenya’s northern and northeastern borders, far from the premier tourism attractions. Exercise increased caution in terrorist strongholds but note that these incidents are also far from popular tourist areas. The Kenyan Government has implemented strict security measures at airports and visible policing in shopping malls and outdoor markets, ensuring it is safe to visit Kenya.

Most visitors fly out of Nairobi to attractions such as Samburu, Masai Mara, and Amboseli. High airport security levels have been reported by staff traveling to Kenya regularly, and some hotels in the capital city have instituted additional security measures for peace of mind.

COVID-19 Restrictions

Starting on May 9th, 2023, travelers entering Kenya will no longer need to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 PCR test, as per the new regulations from the Government of Kenya.

Travelers with flu-like symptoms will be required to undergo a rapid antigen test at their own cost of 30 USD. Those who test positive on antigen RDT will be required to take a PCR test at their own cost of 50 USD and self-isolate as per Ministry of Health guidance on isolation. Those with severe symptoms shall then be allowed to isolate per the prevailing isolation requirements for mild, moderate, and severe disease.

Any traveler entering Kenya with flu-like symptoms will be required to fill out the passenger locator form on the ‘jitenge’ platform:  https://ears.health.go.ke/airline_registration/  and may be asked to undergo a rapid antigen test at their own cost regardless of age or vaccination status.

You can find full details of the Government of Kenya’s entry requirements concerning coronavirus at the  Kenya Civil Aviation Authority website .

Health & Vaccination

Before traveling to Kenya, it is important to ensure that all routine vaccinations are up to date. The risk of malaria is low during the Green Season and very low during the peak season, but higher in rural areas and villages outside the parks and reserves. If you plan to go scuba diving after your trip, be sure to inform your doctor to ensure that the correct prophylactic is prescribed. Check with your healthcare provider to determine if additional vaccinations are required.

Yellow fever vaccination is required for travelers aged one year or over arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission. The vaccine is generally recommended for all travelers aged nine months or over, except for those whose itineraries are limited to certain areas. Malaria is an issue in certain areas and travelers should consult their healthcare provider well in advance about the best malaria prophylactics to take.

It is recommended to use sunscreen and bug repellent with DEET. HIV infection rates are high, so it’s important to exercise caution. Make sure to have full medical travel insurance that includes repatriation in case of a medical emergency, and ensure that it covers any active pursuits you plan to undertake. Medical bills are often paid upfront in Kenya, so keep all paperwork to make an insurance claim.

The AMREF Flying Doctors service provides air evacuation and transportation between healthcare facilities for medical emergencies in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, or anywhere within a 1,000 km (621 miles) radius of Nairobi. The planes fly out of Nairobi’s Wilson Airport 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Consult your local health authority for up-to-date health recommendations before your trip to Kenya, and know your blood type. Kenya has good medical facilities, especially private ones.

The following private hospitals are great for emergency attention;

  • Nairobi Hospital – +254 703 082 000
  • Karen Hospital- +254 206 613 000
  • Aga Khan Hospital – +254 203 662 000
  • M.P. Shah Hospital – +254 204 291 000

Phones & Internet

Local landline and mobile calls are inexpensive in Kenya, but hotels add hefty surcharges to phone calls. Public telephones are no longer widely available since most people carry a mobile phone. If you don’t want to use your mobile phone due to expensive international roaming fees, you can buy a Kenyan pay-as-you-go SIM card from one of the service-provider stores or street vendors. The local providers are Airtel, Safaricom, and Telkom. Coverage is good throughout most of the country but can be patchy in remote areas.

When making a call within Kenya, use the full 10-digit number, including the area code, even if you’re in the same area. City codes are (020) for Nairobi, (041) for Mombasa, (040) for Diani Beach, and (012) for Lamu. To call outside Kenya, dial 000 before the international code. For example, dial 000 (0001) for the United States, 00044 for the UK, and 00027 for South Africa.

Internet is widely available in Kenya, with free Wi-Fi in many public places in Nairobi and Mombasa, such as restaurants and coffee shops, and almost all hotels and lodges. However, remote areas may not have connectivity, so don’t expect to be able to connect at out-of-the-way safari lodges or camps. You can top up your Kenyan pay-as-you-go SIM card with data for internet access.

Restaurants

Kenya prides itself on game meat and seafood, organically grown vegetables, and excellent tropical fruits (such as passion fruit, papaya, and mangoes). When you’re near the coast, sample traditional Indian and Arabic food and look for Kenyan-grown tea and coffee and Tusker beer, a local brew.

“Swahili tea” is very similar to chai in India. You’ll find most cuisines, from Chinese to French to Ethiopian, in restaurants in Nairobi.

Kenya

  • Destinations
  • Winery Directory

7 Day Kenya Itinerary: Luxury Safari & The Big Five

View following a 7 Day Kenya Safari itinerary

Kenya Itinerary: 7 Day Safari Experience

Indulge your adventurous side by embarking on a 7 day safari traversing through Kenya while blending luxury and comfort with raw unscripted wildlife adventures. From walking alongside rhinoceroses, to being hypnotized as you watch thousands of wildebeests and zebras swarm into murky waters to cross the Mara River while threatening crocodiles lurk nearby waiting for the perfect chance to strike. A trip to Kenya on safari during the Great Migration is impossible to forget.

Where to Stay in Amboseli

Where to stay in samburu, where to stay in the maasai mara, where to eat in nairobi, visit a local tribe.

Best Time To Go on a Safari in Kenya

When to Travel to Kenya for a Safari

Wildlife viewings are plentiful year round. Anytime between June and October , which is the dry season, is an excellent time to visit Kenya. Since there’s less rain, this naturally corresponds to there being fewer mosquitoes, and animals are generally easier to spot since they often congregate by water sources.

A visit to Maasai Mara from around August through September gives you the chance to witness perhaps the most incredible wildlife spectacle in the world, when the migratory animals cross the Mara River. The wildebeest migration consists of an estimated 1.5 million wildebeests, accompanied by ~250,000 zebras, and antelope species often reach Maasai Mara around August and they generally start returning back to the Serengeti as the rains begin again. While the migratory pattern is fairly predictable, the exact timing can never be guaranteed as the animals are moving in search of better grass.

Winetraveler Tip: If you’re scheduling your trip around the Great Migration and you have an extra week, I recommend spending a week in Tanzania first and then pick up this itinerary that saves the Mara River crossings as the grand finale. Follow along with our suggested 7 day Tanzania safari itinerary .

Select a Tour Operator

There are many tour operators to choose from at a wide range of price points to guide you on a Kenya Safari. Selecting a reputable company with experienced guides will maximize your safari experience. We booked our trip with Odyssey Safaris . You’ll get to see the “Big Five” game animals: lion, elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros. The trip is completely customizable and they’ll walk you through every step of the planning process and offer recommendations based on your personal travel preferences and budget.

Every detail about our trip with Odyssey was flawless, luxurious, adventure-packed, and exceeded all expectations. Without the expertise of our guides, we would have easily driven by many lions and a few cheetahs without ever realizing they were there. The tawny colored fur of lions and the spotted fur of leopards and cheetahs blends right into the tall blades of the beige dry grass. The guides communicated with each other throughout the park about the whereabouts of any highly sought after sightings and brought us close to any within reach.

Schedule a Kenya Safari Experience with Odyssey Safaris

Traveling to and Around Kenya

If you started in Tanzania, you can cross the Namanga border post, clear Immigration formalities and start your journey to Amboseli, Kenya . Alternatively, you can fly into Nairobi and then transfer to Amboseli. You can search for deals on flights here .

The day-to-day driving is in safari vehicles by experienced guides. To avoid very lengthy car drives, this itinerary suggests taking a few single-engine charter planes departing and landing at small airstrips. You can search for these flights with Safari Link .

7 Days on Safari in Kenya

First stop: amboseli (1 night).

Amboseli National Park is well-known for its large elephant population of about 1,200, and viewing immense wildlife while the magnificent towering Mount Kilimanjaro rises in the backdrop. This park, which has been recognized as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO , is located in southern Kenya on the border of Tanzania. Herds of elephants with white ivory tusks cool off in the swampy waters mostly submerged, baby elephants nurse and walk alongside their mothers, and you may witness two male elephants aggressively fight to establish dominance.

Baby Hyena in Kenya during a safari trip

Hyena clans lay sprawled out along the dry earth while little babies scurry in and out of shaded holes and nestle into their mother’s tummies. I never realized how adorable baby hyenas were and how much they resembled puppies.

Elephants in Amboseli Kenya

Other common wildlife encounters include zebras, wildebeests, buffalos, giraffes, hippos, gazelles, some lions, and occasional cheetahs. We only came across a few lions in Amboseli, no cheetahs, and we were told leopards are rarely seen.

The luxurious Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge is nestled into the grasslands of the national park. The rooms are comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. From the spacious outdoor terrace, which is a great place to toast a wonderful day of safari adventures, you may see zebras, elephants, impalas, and gazelles scattered over the expansive savanna plains. Vervet monkeys, which are cute little monkeys with black faces and grayish colored fur, may accompany you.

You can arrange a Champagne toast on top of Observation Hill with tasty appetizers before returning back to the lodge for a bush dining experience among the murmurs of wildlife. Observation Hill, a large hill overlooking the park, boasts having fantastic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, especially at sunset.

Winetraveler Tip: Travelers desiring to splurge on ultra-luxurious accommodation, check out Elewana Tortilis Camp Amboseli .

Second Stop: Samburu (2 nights)

From Amboseli, fly to Samburu via a layover in Nairobi.

What makes the reddish colored desert frontier of Samburu National Reserve  special is that it is the home to animals not found in many other parks. Patches of green shrubbery dot the semi-arid savanna while Ololokwe Mountain stands proud in the backdrop. Enormous masterful termite mounds, many appearing to be at least 12 feet tall, are common, and occasionally bare trees grow out of them. Fierce crocodiles patrol the brown waters of the Ewaso Ngiro River that also provides escape to the wildlife from the equatorial sun.

Girafe in Samburu

The patterns on the zebras and giraffes in Samburu are remarkably different than those we saw elsewhere throughout Tanzania and Kenya. Grevy’s zebras, the largest species of zebras, have a white underbelly and distinctively narrower stripes in comparison to the plains zebras. The spots on reticulated giraffes, living in Samburu, are cleaner and more defined than the other giraffes we had seen. The long-necked gerenuk is an antelope with an elongated neck that stands erect on its hind legs to feed on the leaves of high tree branches. We came across our first oryxes, which are large grayish colored antelope with long straight horns that have an incredible ability to survive long periods of time without water.

Elephants and hippos are also common in Samburu. The big cats are not known to be commonly seen. We did, however, see a pride of lions basking in the sun, and we spotted a couple of cheetahs from afar while sitting on our balcony at our lodge.

Samburu Simba Lodge reminded me of a luxurious 2-story town home community in the States. Right from our spacious private balcony that extended out in a triangular form overlooking the vast game reserve, we watched zebras and elephants roaming the expansive lands while sipping on wine.

Another lovely hotel option is Samburu Intrepids Luxury Tented Camp .

Third Stop: Mount Kenya (1 night)

Samburu to Mount Kenya is about a 2 hour and 15 minute drive.

The Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club is a slice of paradise set on the equator offering spectacular views of Africa’s second highest mountain, Mount Kenya reaching over 17,000 ft. high. The club’s founder was movie star William Holden, and its most famous former member is Winston Churchill. The luxury hotel is spread out over 100 acres and features meticulously manicured and velvety green lawns, a 9-hole golf course, a large pool, entrancing gardens, a hedge maze reminding me of Alice in Wonderland, ponds, and a nearby animal orphanage. Horseback riding, fishing, nature walks, and tranquil spa treatments are also available.

Bonding with baby buffalo at animal orphanage at Mt Kenya

The Animal Orphanage , located in the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy, is only a short walk from the main hotel. Most of the animals roamed freely around the grounds. The orphanage was the home to many animals including cheetahs, a bongo, ostriches, giant tortoises, buffaloes, all kinds of fun monkeys, and small hippos. The monkeys jumped and crawled all over us while we fed them. We hand fed the ostriches and the small hippos. One of my highlights of the trip was when I bonded with the baby buffalo that took a fancy to me and followed my every step around the property.

Fourth Stop: Maasai Mara (2 nights)

Transfer to the Nanyuki airstrip and fly to the Ngerende Airstrip. From there, you will be only about 10 minutes to the Fairmont Mara Safari Club .

Nowhere else we had traveled (including our 7 prior days in Tanzania) compared in terms of the amount, variety, and density of wildlife we observed in the Maasai Mara National Reserve. It lies in the Great Rift Valley and is the most prolific game reserve in Kenya and the host of the Great Migration. Every year, millions of migratory terrestrial animals cross the crocodile and hippopotamus infested waters.

Zebras in Masai Mara

The natural beauty of Maasai Mara is immense and the herds of animals appear endless. The timing of our trip put us there at the perfect time to join the herds of wildebeests. For long stretches, countless wildebeests appeared in every direction all around us as far as the eye could see across the vast plains until they appeared to be no larger than black ants. Elephants, giraffes, buffalos, lions, cheetahs, warthogs, gazelles, impalas, topis, and hyenas are common. Some are lucky enough to see a leopard. Black rhinos are rare.

Cheetahs in Maasai Mara

Mara River Crossing

At the crocodile and hippo infested waters of the Mara River, swarms of wildebeests and zebras attempt a crossing. Long, wide, and thick crocodiles lurk in the distance waiting and plotting their ambush. Zebras take turns standing watch to warn fellow zebras and the masses of wildebeests when the crocodiles are getting dangerously close. Most traveled safely across the river. Many did not. We watched as a crocodile did the death roll with a zebra.

Mara River Crossing during Kenya Safari

For as scary as the crocodiles were, the territorial hippos commanded the waters. Anytime the crocodiles got too close to a huddle of hippos, a large male hippo would swim toward the crocodile warning them to back off. The crocodiles always listened.

We watched the scenes unfold at the Mara River crossing for hours and I could have stayed for hours longer.

Winetraveler Tip: This is a trip worth investing in a better camera or renting one. If I have the chance to bring my children back here to witness this phenomenon, I would rent a camera with a 600 mm lens .

Walk with Rhinos

Walk with two southern white rhinoceroses named Koffi Anan and Queen Elizabeth that are kept under 24/7 surveillance by rangers keeping watch for poachers. Being close to these powerful and massive creatures without any fence or barrier is simply incredible. They appeared calm and undisturbed by our presence while they slowly moved around eating the grass. We were warned how aggressive they could be and to not make any sudden movements or loud noises. The rhino tour was a part of our game drives conducted during our stay at the Fairmont Mara Safari Club .

Seeing the Rhinos in Kenya during Safari

The Fairmont Mara Safari Club is a series of luxurious furnished tents featuring running water, hard floors, lights, four post beds with comfortable mattresses, and situated right along the Mara River. Our tent had a beautiful front porch overlooking the meandering river that was the perfect spot to relax and soak in the wilderness.

Fifth Stop: Nairobi (1 night)

Fly from Ngerende to Nairobi.

Where to Stay in Nairobi

The Nairobi Serena Hotel  was lovely and was comparable to nice chain hotels such as Hilton and Marriott.

The appropriately named Carnivore Restaurant was outstanding with attentive staff and a lively atmosphere. It is akin to a Brazilian steakhouse. Servers pass around the tables with a continuous supply of a variety of meats, including steak, crocodile and ostrich, and carve the meats of your choice table-side.

Safari Add-Ons

A hot air balloon ride over the Massai Mara plains at sunrise is surely a thrilling experience. We left our hotel by 4 am to take part in this activity, but sadly had to return back to the hotel since the winds were too strong. Waking up early was still rewarding as the red eyes of wandering hippos while it was pitch black were visible. We were told hippos walk around 5 miles every night.

Immerse yourself in the culture and lifestyle of nomadic African tribes. Different tour operators stop at various villages for a fee paid to the village. We visited a Samburu village in Samburu and I had a two-on-one meeting with a Maasai tribal member named Kenneth in Amboseli. The Maasai are a well-known nomadic African warrior tribe frequently traveling between Tanzania and Kenya following rainfall patterns for better pastures for their cattle. The Samburu chief told us the only major difference between their tribe and the Maasai are that the Samburu members are better looking.

The informal meeting was an enlightening learning experience about their history, customs, childhood, and culture. The elders send the warriors to scope out the land to determine where the tribe should move. Visiting a tribe offered a glimpse into their day-to-day life and into their homes, but it felt like a commercialized display for tourists.

As we approached the village, a group of ladies warmly welcomed us with a song and dance. They wore bright colored clothing and beaded necklaces that had multiple rows stretching 8-12ish inches around their necks. They energetically insisted the ladies in our group join along. The warrior men, also wearing brightly colored clothing, held long sticks while they demonstrated their impressive jumping abilities, and then they showed us how they make fire by rubbing sticks.

Eighteen small huts made by women with mud, sticks, cardboard and cow dung were spread around the village in a circular shape enclosed by a wall of dead tree branches. The interior of the huts, while still very small, was more spacious than I had imagined. There was a wall separating the parents’ room from the kids’ room. There was even a small walled off area for the kitchen with a hole in the roof to allow smoke to escape. The floor was the dirt of the earth. The bedrooms had cow hides laid out to make sleeping more comfortable.

Kenneth explained their diet consists nearly completely of cow. The Maasai believe all the cows on earth were given to them by God, which created conflict with other tribes in the past. They eat the meat and fat from the cow, occasionally from a goat, and drink the milk and blood from the cow. Sometimes they will combine the two to have what Kenneth excitably described as a “blood milkshake.” They don’t eat fruits, vegetables, or other animals.

Cows are given to the family of a bride as part of her dowry before the girl is married with the average number of cows being 5. The wedding ceremony is a full day affair that starts early in the morning. There’s lots of dancing and many cows are involved in the ceremony. As a man obtains more cows, it is common for him to marry a second or third wife.

You can read more and get inspired by Lenore’s other adventurous travel guides here .

Frequently Asked Questions about a Kenya Itinerary with a Safari

When is the best time to do a kenya safari.

If you’re interested in the Great Migration, which is one of the most impressive natural spectacles in the world, you should plan your visit Kenya between July and October . During this period, over a million wildebeest and zebra migrate from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya, providing incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. For general wildlife viewing, the dry seasons from June to October and January to February are considered the best times. During these periods, vegetation is sparse and animals tend to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. Additionally, the weather during these periods is more pleasant with less rainfall and clear skies. Bird watchers, however, might prefer to visit between November and April when many migratory bird species are present. It’s worth mentioning that Kenya’s wildlife parks offer great wildlife viewing year-round and each season has its own charm. The off-peak rainy season (April to June) may mean more challenging road conditions, but it also brings fewer tourists, lower rates, and the lush, green landscape is a beautiful sight in itself.

How many days are ideal for a Kenya safari?

A Kenya safari is a journey into the heart of Africa’s vibrant wildlife, and to truly soak in the experience, a Kenya safari itinerary of about 7 to 10 days is ideal . This span allows you to explore the diverse landscapes and ecosystems across different national parks and reserves. You might spend the first 2-3 days immersed in the vast plains of the Maasai Mara Reserve, a spectacular location teeming with wildlife, and if you time your visit right, you could witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Great Migration. Dedicate a couple of days to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its stunning flocks of flamingos and rich birdlife. Venture into Amboseli National Park, where the iconic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro complements your wildlife sightings. Finally, you could spend a day or two in Tsavo, one of Kenya’s largest national parks, known for its red-dusted elephants. Each location offers unique experiences, making every day of your safari a distinct adventure. Read our complete itinerary and travel guide to plan your perfect trip.

What animals can I expect to see on a Kenya safari?

Kenya is home to a diverse range of wildlife. During a safari, you can expect to see the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), as well as cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, wildebeests, and various bird species.

Are Kenya safaris safe?

Kenya is generally a safe destination for safaris, with well-established tourism infrastructure and experienced guides. However, it’s always important to follow the instructions of your safari guide, respect wildlife, and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Schedule a Kenya Safari experience with a reputable tour operator like Odyssey Safaris .

What is the Great Migration, and can I witness it on a Kenya safari?

The Great Migration is a spectacular natural event where millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other herbivores migrate between the Maasai Mara in Kenya and the Serengeti in Tanzania. Depending on the timing of your safari, you may be able to witness this awe-inspiring phenomenon in the Maasai Mara.

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kenya safari how many days

Average Length of an African Safari (With 11 Examples)

kenya safari how many days

You’re probably thinking of going on an African safari and are wondering how many days you should allocate to the entire trip. I did some research on what most tourists do and here it is:

The average length of an African Safari is 5 to Seven days. When you include time spent on your international flight and resting from jetlag, most tourists have a total trip duration of 14 days from the time they leave their home country to the time they return. How long the Safari lasts will depend on budget and the number of parks they will visit but the total trip duration does not usually go below 8 days.  

There are a lot of different configurations that your safari can take and this will affect how long your safari is. Lets first look at a few examples then see when you might want to have a shorter or longer safari than what most do.

What is the average length of a Safari?

Most guided safaris last between 5-7 days. They allocate their time between two parks: one large one and a smaller park that has a unique attraction. However, as you can see in the table below, the configurations can be very varied and you might find one tour that spends all its time in one park while others that will come to that same park also visiting 2 or more other parks.

Here are some examples of Guided Safaris and how long they typically last

Key: NP- National Park  ; NR- National Reserve Source: Safaribookings.com

What determines how long a safari is?

The main factors that determine the length of a safari are:

kenya safari how many days

  • Budget:  This is the main factor that will influence how long you can afford to go on safari. The more money you have, the more days you can spend in each park.
  • The number of National Parks Being Visited: Visiting more than one national park will mean that you will spend at least one day on the road traveling to the other park. (That’s unless you are flying). This will add to the total number of days you spend on your Safari.
  • Beach Time: Depending on your preference and budget, you might want to visit the beach. Most tourists spend between 3-4 days at the beach after they are done with their safari. 
  • Animals being sought after: If you are looking to find gorillas or chimpanzees, you may end up spending more time on your safari than someone coming to Africa to see lions or elephants.
  • Length of International Flight : If you have a lot of connecting flights from your home country, you will end up having a longer trip duration on your safari than someone who had direct flights.
  • Resting Time:  If you will have had a long flight, you may need to take a day or two to recover from the jetlag and this time can also be spent exploring the city and buying souvenirs.
  • How Quickly you get bored: If you are just interested in the general feeling of being in an African safari but get bored easily, you might want to spend a few days out in the bush and mix up your activities to keep things interesting.

What is the least amount of time I should spend on safari

You should spend at least 3 days on the actual safari for it to be worth the trip. You will also maximize your chances of seeing some of the more rare species like leopards that need some skill and time to spot.

Spending any less time than this will make your safari a bit rushed and you will not get enough experiences to make the long flight from home worthwhile.

This means that you should plan for at least 7 days in total from the time you start your journey to the time you return home.

How long should I stay in one park?

The amount of time you spend in one park will be largely dependent on:

  • How expansive the park is 
  • The number of unique attractions in each park
  • Your attention span

Typically, large parks like the Serengeti in Tanzania, Masai Mara in Kenya and Kruger in South Africa are expansive enough to spend at least 3 days without getting bored. 

As I wrote in my article on how long you should stay at the Masai Mara , typical safaris in large parks like these should last at least 4 days. 

Usually, visits to large parks like these are bundled with a visit to smaller national parks that offer something unique. This mix reduces the monotony of staying in one park and provides more opportunities for you to spot animals that are more rare and elusive.

For example, the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya (where I live) is usually bundled together with Lake Nakuru National park which has a large population of rhinos and flamingos.  This provides tourists with an opportunity to see the elusive white and black rhinos without having to spend days tracking them in a big park like the Masai Mara.

If you are going on Safari with kids, you may need to seriously consider the length of your safari. 

With a shorter attention span and the monotony of going on game drives that seem similar on a daily basis, you may run the risk of boring your kids if you spend too many days in one place on your Safari.

 You will need to keep things interesting and manage restlessness by changing up the activities and varying the number of things you do your safari.

I think this is the reason many safaris restrict the minimum age of travelers to 12 years.

How much time should I allocate to the beach

Just like many tourists, you may want to spend some time at the beach when you are done with your safari and this will add to your total trip time. 

The beaches of East Africa are really beautiful and warm all year round and you might want to spend at least 3 days here before returning home. 

How long you stay at the beach after your safari will first be determined by your budget, the amount of time it takes you to get to the beach and the number of activities you expect to find at the beach location.

How much rest time should you allocate?

I would advise that you set apart at least one day to rest once you arrive for your African safari. Spend some time in the capital city of the country you will be doing your safari and spend most of this time in your hotel resting.

This will allow you to get enough sleep and reduce your jetlag before your safari starts. Starting your safari feeling groggy and disoriented will dampen the whole experience and make it less memorable.

kenya safari how many days

You can combine resting time with a few hours of shopping for souvenirs. You will get better deals and greater variety when you shop for your souvenirs in the city than in the national parks. 

Here are a few other articles I wrote about preparing for your African safari. They are the perfect read for someone getting ready to do their first African safari.

  • 25 Tips On Preparing For An African Safari
  • How Much Safaris Cost
  • 10 Easy Steps To Choosing A Safari Company
  • 18 Tips On Spotting African Wildlife On Safari
  • 40 Reasons Why Kenya is A Great Place to Visit
  • 23 Reasons Tanzania Is A Great Place To Visit
  • How To Take Good Safari Photos

I wish you all the best on your African Safari. Make it memorable

A Final Word

As you prepare for your trip to Africa, I would like to recommend a few products that would help make your life easier. 

  • Shoes: I recommend that you check the Keen Hiking shoes . I have written an extensive article on the best shoes for an African safari and this shoe checks all the boxes for things you should look for when choosing a shoe for Africa. ( Check out the Keen Hiking Shoes on Amazon )
  • Camera: If you are not big on photography, I would not advise you to buy a brand new camera for your African Adventure. Good cameras can be expensive and buying a camera you will not use is not a good use of your limited budget. I advise that you rent a camera instead and Lens Rentals have a great Safari Camera Kit perfect for someone traveling to Africa. If you are thinking of getting into photography, then you can invest in a new camera but before you do, check out my pick for the best Safari Camera for a Beginner like Me
  • Information About Africa: I have created a YouTube channel that focuses on things about traveling to Africa that only Africans can tell you about. Check out the channel for insights about African culture and things you can do as a traveler to optimize your trip. You should also visit TripAdvisor forum posts ( Here is the Kenya Forum ) and ask questions about your particular situation. There are a lot of people who are happy to help you out. 
  • Choosing a Safari Company: I have written an extensive article on how to choose a safari Company . You can. Check it out before starting the process of searching for a safari company.
  • Consulting Session : If you have any questions you would like to ask me about Kenya, I would invite you to contact me for a 30-minute consultation session where I will share my knowledge about East Africa and share experiences that will help you make your trip easier. Reach out to me on email – [email protected]

Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Antony Njoroge

Hi, I'm Antony & I'm from Kenya. I love traveling around Kenya when I get off from work and this website is a great way for me to share my local knowledge and tips that will help you travel well in East Africa. Having lived in East Africa my whole life, I share my personal experiences and knowledge with the goal of helping you optimize your East African Safari and make it an unforgettable expereince.

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How many days do I need for a Safari in Kenya?

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kenya safari how many days

  • Kenya Safaris
  • The Great Migration Safaris
  • Kenya Safari

How many days do I need for a Safari in Kenya

Are you planning a safari to Kenya to how many days do I need for a Safari in Kenya? The ideal duration for a safari in Kenya can vary based on your preferences and interests. However, many people find that a 7-day Kenya safari allows enough time to explore the diverse wildlife and landscapes of Kenya. This duration gives you the opportunity to witness different animal behaviors, experience various parts of the ecosystem, and enjoy the overall safari experience including seeing the Great wildebeest migration if you choose to travel from August to October. Of course, the choice ultimately depends on your schedule, budget, and how much time you want to devote to this unique adventure .

How many days do I need for a Safari in Kenya? A one-week safari in Kenya is one of the best safaris to consider for those interested in visiting Kenya to see the Big 5 animals, this safari allows you to explore some of the country’s most renowned national parks and wildlife reserves. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a memorable week-long safari in Kenya:

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi

Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, you’ll be greeted by your tour representative and transferred to your hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax and acclimate to the local time zone.

Day 2-3: Maasai Mara National Reserve

On Day 2, depart Nairobi early in the morning for a scenic drive to the Maasai Mara National Reserve. After reaching your lodge or camp, enjoy a delicious lunch and then head out for an afternoon game drive in the reserve. Spend Day 3 exploring the vast savannahs of Maasai Mara, famous for its high concentration of wildlife, including lions, elephants, cheetahs, and wildebeests. You may also have the opportunity to witness the Great Migration if you visit during the appropriate season.

Day 4: Lake Nakuru National Park

After breakfast, depart Maasai Mara and travel to Lake Nakuru National Park, known for its abundant birdlife and its resident population of rhinos. Enjoy a game drive in the park and keep an eye out for flamingos, pelicans, giraffes, and other wildlife. In the afternoon, you can take a boat ride on Lake Naivasha or visit the nearby Hell’s Gate National Park for hiking and cycling.

Day 5-6: Amboseli National Park

On Day 5, leave Lake Nakuru and head to Amboseli National Park, located at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. Amboseli offers breathtaking views of the iconic mountain and is home to large elephant herds, as well as other wildlife like zebras, giraffes, and lions. Spend two days exploring the park, going on game drives, and taking in the stunning scenery.

Day 7: Nairobi City Tour and Departure

On your last day, return to Nairobi and embark on a city tour to visit attractions like the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, the Giraffe Centre, or the Karen Blixen Museum. You can also do some last-minute souvenir shopping at local markets. In the evening, transfer to the airport for your departure flight or continue with your onward travel plans.

End of the 7 days Kenya Safari

Here below are the Top safari activities for Planning A one-week Safari in Kenya .

Safari in Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park covers 392 sq km and forms the larger part of Amboseli ecosystem in Kenya. The Park is famous for its big game, its great scenic beauty and the landscape is dominated by the towering Mount Kilimanjaro making it one of the great national parks to visit on your safari in Kenya.

Things to do in Amboseli National Park

Wildlife Viewing

Amboseli National Park has large concentrations of wildlife all year round with over 80 different mammal species ranging from the tiny (and rarely seen) spectacled elephant shrew to the huge bulk of the African elephant. The park is great for superb elephant pictures and documentaries with Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.

Major attractions to see in Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Parks gives you an opportunity to view Mount Kilimanjaro on the observation hill which as well allows you to have an overall view of the whole park especially the beautiful swamps and elephants below the hill. Animals in the park include elephants, buffaloes, hippos and a variety of water fowl like pelican, Egyptian goose and other water birds.

Maasai culture

In Amboseli National Park you will as be able to visit the maasai people and their indigenous lifestyle, you will have an opportunity to learn and shot how they survive in the park alongside with wildlife. The Vibrant Maasai tribe is Kenya’s best known cultural group leaving in different parts of Kenya, clad in colourful shukas, these tall, bejeweled people have preserved their traditional way of life sustaining its authenticity uninfluenced by cultural trends elsewhere.

Where to stay in Amboseli National Park

Lodge options where to stay in Amboseli National Park during your safari range from Budget, mid-range to luxury options. You will choose what to stay in depending on your interests and budget. These include Tortilis Camp, Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge, Ol Tukai Lodge Amboseli and Satao Elerai Camp among others.

Safari in Masai Mara National Reserve

Masai Mara National Reserve is another great national Park to visit on your safari in Kenya. It is widely recognized as the jewel in the crown of Kenya’s tourism industry. The reserve is regarded as the most spectacular wildlife viewing area in Kenya with over 95 species of mammals, amphibians and reptiles and over 400 bird species. A safari to Masai Mara National Reserve during your safari will give you an opportunity to see the great wildlife numbers including the dominant inhabitant that is the wildebeests. From June to October each year over 1.5 million wildebeests along with large numbers of Zebras and Thompson’s gazelle, migrate from the Serengeti plains in Tanzania to search for fresh pastures in the Masai Mara before going back in October.

Where to stay in Masai Mara National Reserve during safari in Kenya

Lodges options where to stay in Masai Mara National Reserve range from Budget, mid-range to luxury options. You will choose where to stay in depending on your interests and budget. Lodges include Mara Serena, Little Governors Camp, Mara Sopa Lodge, Keekorok and Sarova Mara, Mara Intrepids, and Explorer among others. Contact us here for reservations and booking details.

Safari viewing in Tsavo National Park

Tsavo National Park is the largest National Park in Kenya it was established in 1948 and it is commonly known as the Theatre of the wild another paradise to spend your safari time in Kenya. The Park is divided into East and west intersected by the Nairobi to Mombasa railway and road. The park has interesting and diverse habitats, wildlife and scenic mountain landscapes. Tsavo East is an easily accessible and popular park attracting large numbers of tourists annually. Its scenic features include its large herds of Elephants and other wildlife and its striking natural landscapes and structures. Tsavo west National Park has a more varied topography and more diverse array of habitats than Tsavo East National Park. Visiting Tsavo National Park will give you an opportunity to explore both sides of the park, wildlife including the Big 5 animal and Cheetahs, its pristine habitats including open plains alternating with savannah bush and semi-desert scrub and acacia woodlands.

Where to stay in Tsavo National Park

Lodge options to stay in Tsavo National Park range from Budget, mid-range to luxury options. You will choose what to stay in depending on your interests and budget. Accommodation options in Tsavo National Park include Patterson Safari Camp, Galdessa Camp, Kilaguni Serena Lodge, Ngulia Lodge, Severin Safari Lodge and Voi Safari Lodge.

Visit Lake Nakuru National Park to see Flamingos

Lake Nakuru National Park is another amazing National Park for safari in Kenya, it is home to the beautiful pink flamingos which leave in a very shallow, strongly alkaline lake set in a picturesque landscape of woods and grasslands next to Nakuru town. The park is one of the best places to see flamingos and the beautiful landscape which includes areas of marsh and grassland alternating with rocky cliffs and outcrops, stretches of acacia woods and rocky hillsides covered with euphorbia forests. Lake Nakuru occupies about a third of Lake Nakuru National Park surface area with other parts of the park covered with savannah vegetation home to various mammals and birds.

Where to stay in Lake Nakuru National Park

Lodge and Hotel options to stay at Lake Nakuru National Park range from Budget, mid-range to luxury options. You will choose what to stay in depending on your interests and budget. Options in Lake Nakuru National park include Lake Nakuru SOPA Lodge, Sarova Lion Hill Lodge, Lake Nakuru Lodge and Naishi Guest House among others.

What is the best time to visit Kenya?

Kenya can be visited throughout the year and the best time is during December to February and then June to October which is relatively dry than March to May and November and the best time to witness the great wildebeest migration.

Why book A one-week Safari in Kenya Through Eco Adventure Safaris?

Eco Adventure Safaris offers unrivaled and professional tour and travel services in Uganda, Kenya, Congo, Tanzania and Rwanda. Since then, Eco Adventure Safaris as established herself as one of the leading tour operator in all these countries including Kenya. Eco Adventure Safaris boosts of a professional office and field team that takes care of all your requests and inquiries. We are full members of AUTO (Association of Uganda Tour Operators) and work closely with Kenya Wildlife Services. We are highly recommended on Trip Advisor as well as Safari bookings.

Our website is one of the best and reliable point to help you start preparing for your Kenya safari as we have the best and updated information that you can rely on. Eco Adventure Safaris is owned and run by Ugandans who have explored Kenya and as such, you will be dealing with a team that sells what they know. Please feel free to contact us here about your planned safari to Kenya to advise on How many days do I need for a Safari in Kenya.

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How many days are enough for a perfect Kenyan safari?

How many days are enough for a perfect Kenyan safari? You can explore a number of national parks and wildlife reserves, spend time at the beach, and get to know the locals and their way of life if you have two weeks to spend in Kenya. Most visitors  come primarily for the Kenya safari experience, which may be had in as few as five days if they stay in the areas nearest to Nairobi. You can fit in more activities or visit a wide variety of parks if you have more time in Kenya.

Planning a safari trip to kenya

Many visitors come to Kenya in order to enjoy Kenya safari and learn about the rich Maasai culture of the nation. Both can be accomplished on shorter Kenya safari tours as well as longer, more leisurely ones. Since most tourists fly into Nairobi, the capital, how far you can travel outside of the city depends on how many days you have available. For shorter journeys, it makes sense to stay closer to Nairobi because there are still some fantastic possibilities to see wildlife within a few hours’ drive. You can travel farther and deeper into the nation on longer excursions.

It’s crucial to schedule your kenya safari  trip during the ideal season for the sights and activities you wish to see and experience, regardless of how long you plan to spend in Kenya. You’ll have to wait until the dry season to go on kenya safari, see the Great Migration, or climb Mount Kenya. Since it’s also the busiest time of year, prices will be highest. Go to Kenya during off-peak times to save money, but be ready for less than ideal conditions for observing animals. You should take safety precautions before climbing Mount Kenya, and visiting during the off-season is not recommended.

Where to go in Kenya 5 days

Make the most of your brief stay in Kenya less than a week by seeing the many landscapes that are easily accessible from Nairobi. This tour offers a fantastic overview of Kenya by fusing culture and natural experiences. Take a boat excursion of Lake Naivasha to start seeing waterbucks and hippos. Go ashore to Crescent Island, where you can go on a walking safari to observe giraffes and zebras, among other non-predatory wildlife. Get insight into the everyday lives of the Maasai people by spending a night at the Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp. Next, visit the Maasai Mara National Reserve to partake in the traditional safari experience, which includes game drives.

Hiking and wildlife viewing are great combinations for active tourists who like a physical challenge. It takes roughly three hours to drive from Nairobi to the Mount Kenya National Park. At 17,057 feet (5,199 metres), the mountain that lends the park its name is the tallest in Kenya and the second-highest in Africa. You can ascend a portion of the way to Old Moses Mountain Camp at 10,837 feet (3,300 m) on an overnight excursion. This amazing five-day tour combines animal watching at Nanyuki and Ol Pejeta Conservancy with an amazing jungles.

How  to spend one week in Kenya

You may combine cultural interactions, beach relaxation, hiking, and visits to various national parks and conservation projects during a week-long stay in Kenya.

Vacationers can easily fit in time at a beach if they wish to mix leisure with animal viewing. For honeymooners or other couples looking for a romantic holiday, this schedule is perfect. Still, this is a combination of attractions and activities that everybody can enjoy. Begin by spending some time in Nairobi, where you can see graceful giraffes and young elephants. Next, go on a safari to see the “Big Five” at the Tanzanian border’s Tsavo West National Park. If you can’t get enough of Kenya’s wildlife, spend the final three nights at Diani Beach, a stunning white sand beach between monkey sanctuaries and jungles.

Those who are fit and want to spend seven days in the country climbing Mount Kenya can do so. Following a safari in Nairobi National Park and a visit to two centres with baby elephants and giraffes, you will proceed to Naro Moru to meet your guide. Prepare your equipment before starting your ascent of Kenya’s second-highest peak. To go to your first camp, you’ll travel through bamboo and rosewood forests; to get to your second camp, you’ll cross the Mackinder Valley; and to reach the mountain’s summit at Point Lenana. On your final day, you’ll complete the descent, stop for lunch and souvenir shopping at a local market, and then catch your next flight.

How to spend 10 days in kenya

If you have ten days to spend in Kenya, you can visit more national parks and follow the itinerary listed above more slowly.

Although Mount Kilimanjaro is located in Tanzania, areas of southern Kenya can view it. You will spend time in Amboseli National Park, close to Africa’s tallest mountain, during your ten-day safari. You will depart from Nairobi and search for wildlife in five different areas prior to your first game drive. After that, you’ll hike or bike through Hell’s Gate National Park, stop at Mount Longonot for breathtaking views of the Rift Valley, and keep an eye out for Lake Nakuru’s black and white rhinos and endangered Rothschild giraffes. After taking pictures of hundreds of flamingos at Lake Bogoria on day six, you’ll spend the next three nights at Maasai Mara National Reserve .

How about taking a jogging tour of Kenya for something a little different? You can match their stride (or at least attempt) on this strenuous 10-day adventure; Kenya produces superb long-distance runners. To discover more about the science underlying Kenya’s elite runners, you’ll take a tour of the High Altitude Training Centre in Iten. Witness athletes in action and experience running at high altitudes. It’s not all business, though; as with any well-planned Kenyan itinerary, you’ll spend some time at the Maasai Mara National Reserve watching wildlife, and the journey culminates with a few leisurely days at Diani Beach.

How many days are enough for a perfect Kenyan safari?

Two weeks in Kenya

Spending two weeks in Kenya is the perfect length of time because you may explore a variety of activities and landscapes in-depth at a slower pace.

Inquisitive tourists may like to visit a few museums and cultural locations that many pass by when looking for the Big Five in order to learn more about Kenya’s history, culture, and arts. This “Cultural Kenya” trip reveals the history of the place dubbed the “cradle of humankind. Many of Kenya’s most important museums and cultural landmarks will be on your itinerary, such as the Baden-Powell Museum, the Karen Blixen House, and the Nairobi National Museum . There will also be plenty of time to take in and explore the nation’s well-known landscapes, such as the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park, and the Great Rift Valley, all of which are significant both ecologically and culturally.

For a unique wildlife experience, some travellers who have at least two weeks to spare prefer to cross into Uganda and embark on a gorilla trek through the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Before taking a quick flight to Uganda, participants on this two-week journey will see some of Kenya’s top attractions, including the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lake Naivasha, and Maasai Mara National Reserve. After that, embark on a guided walk through the forest to witness the majestic mountain gorillas, an animal that is not seen in Kenya.

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Kenya Safari Tours and Holiday Packages

Find and book your dream safari in magical Kenya. There are 855 Kenya safari adventures to choose from, that range in length from 1 days up to 21 days. The most popular month for these tours is October.

Best Kenya safari tours based on 1,028 reviews

Elevate Your Safari Experience in 5 Unforgettable Days! Tour

Elevate Your Safari Experience in 5 Unforgettable Days!

Kenya Wildlife Safari Tour

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Kenya Wildlife Safari

Phoebe here... My experience together with my guy Jean was awesome.. No words can describe that feeling ..

6 Days Kenya Budget Tours (with FREE NIGHT at Nairobi Hotel) Tour

6 Days Kenya Budget Tours (with FREE NIGHT at Nairobi Hotel)

I was so astonished by watching wildlife on a 6-day budget safari in Masai Mara! The guys from Bon Voyage Kenya Safaris organized the safari perfectly. The driver guide Charles, and Mr. Omondi our safari planner gave us clear instructions before safari begun, told lots of interesting facts about animal's, and let us enjoy game drives. Thanks for this unforgettable life experience!

7 Days Bigfive Safari - Nairobi Tour

7 Days Bigfive Safari - Nairobi

Let me start with our guide, Dennis. He was excellent and very knowlegable. He was all for his 'clients (or new family as he called us)". He made sure we had the most vantage point to take pictures of the animals and would do his best to find where wildlife was located to by using his VHF radio and get us there. Very polite and respectful. This is what made our safari experience 'excellent'. He had the intution of knowing how the animal was going to behave or which way they were going to move and got us there for the best pictures. The whole experience was great. I wish our vehicle was a little more adaptive to the rough terrain in the parks, but then, it wasn't bad either. There were times we felt that we were being taken to all of these curio shops for a purpose other than a rest stop. Be aware that the prices of items at the curio shops are negotiable - by up to 30-40%. On the whole, we enjoyed our trip and I would recommend it to anybody. Instead of the 5 parks that we did in 7 days, I would suggest only 3-4 parks so that you can have a more relaxed pace. The drive between each park can be very tiring and boring (4-6 hours!!) and you are always living out of partially opened suitecases.
  • €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Kenya Safari Experience National Geographic Journeys Tour

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Kenya Safari Experience National Geographic Journeys

Absolutely fantastic! I was with a lovely group of people, the guide and driver were brilliant and the accommodation was out of this world. Only down side is lots of travelling but the experience made up for it. Loved the Fig Tree and masi mara.

5 Days Masai Mara  and Amboseli Wildlife Safari Tour

5 Days Masai Mara and Amboseli Wildlife Safari

Our 5 day Kenya Masai Mara safari was fantastic. Everything was very good. Martin our driver guide, extremely hard-working, knowledgeable and helpful. From airport reception to on time performance all very good. Good company I can recommend.

8 Days Kenya Discovery Safari - Nairobi Tour

8 Days Kenya Discovery Safari - Nairobi

great trip to Kenya. My tour guide Samuel W. was great. He knew all the best spots and when to be there so we'd be right next to the animals. He was very knowledgeable about the animals and Kenya. We saw the 'ugly five' and the 'big five' though it was 2 cheetahs instead of a leopard. Make sure you bring sunscreen and a hat. You're mostly in the vehicle but when you're outside the sun is intense. Also bring cash there's a lot of things that don't take credit cards and a lot of tipping (mostly luggage porters). FYI: Roads in Kenya are bumpy.

7 Days Masai Mara Kenya Budget Camping Safari by 4x4 Group Joining Jeep Tour

7 Days Masai Mara Kenya Budget Camping Safari by 4x4 Group Joining Jeep

Not all driving games are in jeeps, but in vans that claim to be 4x4. There's a lot of variation in the hotels where they accommodate you. It's worth paying for the upgrade because the only camp I stayed at had no clean water for the bathroom, shower, and sink. The service provided by Faith and Walter Omondi was very good; they always resolved things with the best attitude. Omondi, in particular, made the trip more enjoyable. You have to be very insistent on all the game drives if you want to keep searching and seeing animals; otherwise, by 2-4 pm, they'll take you back to the hotel. The drivers in the Maasai Mara find it hard to understand that you're there for a safari and have traveled a long way, not to be at the pool at 2 pm but on the safari you paid for. Otherwise, they always claim that everything is too far away. I repeat, you have to insist to stay on track with the safari and not leave the reserve. In general, it's an unforgettable journey and an adventure you won't regret. Just keep in mind these few details.

Kenya Camping Safari Tour

Kenya Camping Safari

My first time camping and I had a blast! David was a fantastic CEO: helpful, patient, informative and good natured. The people, places and animals I’ve seen will stay will me for a long time.

7 Days Taylor -Made Kenya Luxury  Safari Tour

7 Days Taylor -Made Kenya Luxury Safari

This is one of the best tours ever just loved the experience

5 Days Kenya medium range safari for Amboseli and Tsavo Parks from Nairobi to Mombasa Tour

5 Days Kenya medium range safari for Amboseli and Tsavo Parks from Nairobi to Mombasa

I would highly recommend CKC Tours. John responded to all our queries promptly and went back and forth until we had an itinerary we were happy with. We were then met by John at the airport and given all the documentation for our trip which included lodges at Masai Mara and Amboseli and internal flights. It was all very easy and well organised. I also found it to be very competitively priced considering the service we received and the standard of accommodation.

7 Days Kenya mid range Joining Safari Tour

7 Days Kenya mid range Joining Safari

I found john via internet. At first I am a little bit nerveus about orginizing the tour. However, we meet on Kenya, I am glad that we work together. We were very lucky on the Safari. We can saw big 5 on 4 days trip. We can also see sitting graffe. Our hotels, game drives everything was great. Thank you John. I hope we can see each other again.

Kenya Family Safari Tour

Kenya Family Safari

Your staff did an excellent job. We had a great time and I would recommend this trip for my friends.

6 Days  Kenya Budget  Small Group  4x4 Jeep Safari Tour

6 Days Kenya Budget Small Group 4x4 Jeep Safari

Exciting Africa holidays provided experienced and excellent guides for the 6 days safari to Maasai Mara ,Lake Nakuru and amboseli....it was amazing! I could not believe the awesome food they served.....we got to see many of the wild animals and to learn of them and also the Mara sunrise was just amazingggg!!!! I highly recommend Exciting Africa Holidays ..... thankyouu for the awesome trip

Picturesque Solo Kenya Tour Tour

Picturesque Solo Kenya Tour

Life-changing trip, supported by a top-notch experience from Indus Travels. The logistics, travel services, accommodations, tour guides, tour experiences, and itinerary excelled my greatest expectations. Cannot wait to tour with them again!

Kenya Safari Tour Reviews

Everything was Amazing
"AMAZING SAFARI" Bon Voyage Safari provided an unforgettable 6-day journey to Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, and Mt. Longonot. From start to finish, their professionalism and attention to detail were exceptional. The personalized itinerary perfectly catered to my interests, showcasing their expertise and knowledge of the region. The knowledgeable guide made me feel welcome and at ease from the moment I arrived. Their passion for wildlife was evident, and their ability to spot elusive creatures was remarkable. Lake Nakuru's thousands of flamingos and diverse wildlife made every game drive an exhilarating experience. Lake Naivasha's tranquil beauty and boat ride allowed for up-close encounters with hippos and stunning bird species. The landscapes surrounding the lake provided a serene backdrop for relaxation and reflection. The pinnacle of the safari was the awe-inspiring Mt. Longonot. The hike to the summit was challenging but rewarding, with breathtaking panoramic views of the Rift Valley. The guide's support ensured a safe and unforgettable experience for everyone. Bon Voyage Safari delivered a dream-like experience in Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, and Mt. Longonot. Their dedication, professionalism, and expertise surpassed expectations. I highly recommend Bon Voyage Safari for an extraordinary adventure in Kenya's natural wonders. I highly recommend Bon Voyage Safari's.
I went with my daughter on a safari. Our contact with Bryan of Bigzone was very good. Quick replies whenever I had a question. We had a private tourguide named Samuel Muthee. Sammy was helping us with everything we asked for. Having 2 women on board we had to frequently stop for a washroom visite and Sammy always knew where it was clean to go. Also we trusted him making the right dicisions and showing us the way. The last day we would have to wait for 10 hours on the airport and Sammy was already 7 days on our side he came up with solutions what to do and stayed with us. Great time with Sammy! The lodges were very different in luxury. Only Lake Naivasha was very beautifull, clean and very good restaurant. The rest of the accomodations were not that clean unfortunatly.

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  • Kenya Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
  • Best Time to Visit Kenya for a Ultimate Safari Experience

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Right Choice Tours & Safaris

6-Day Super Mid Range Masai Mara/Nakuru NP/Amboseli NP

kenya safari how many days

5.0 /5 – 237 Reviews

Enjoy thundering herds of migrating wildebeests, magnificent parades of great elephants and Africa’s Big Five stalking the endless savannah. You’ll experience all this plus Rift Valley lakes on this active 6 day safari. Mara is known for almost guaranteed sightings of the Big Five. Lake Nakuru is home to a huge population of pink flamingos and 400 species of birds while Amboseli is known for the large herds of elephants and most especially with its stunning view of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

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Tour Features

Mid-range tour.

This mid-range tour uses tented camps.

Private tour

This tour will be organized exclusively for you and won't be shared with others.

Can start any day

If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.

Can be customized

You can request changes to this tour.

Not for solo travelers

Solo travelers cannot book this private tour.

Minimum age of 12 years

The minimum age for this tour is 12 years.

Activities & Transportation

Accommodation & meals.

  • Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
  • Day Accommodation Meals

Double room

  • 6 End of tour (No accommodation) – Breakfast & Lunch Included Breakfast & Lunch Included

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Your request will be sent directly to the operator

If preferred, you can contact the operator directly

  • This tour is offered by Right Choice Tours & Safaris , not SafariBookings.
  • This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
  • If you request changes to this tour, the advertised rates will likely change.
  • The exact order, contents and rates of this tour is subject to availability.
  • If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.

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Comparable tours.

4-Day Mara & Nakuru Private Jeep Safari-Budget Option

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4-Day Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru Midrange Private Jeep

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7-Day Thrilling 7-Day Adventure Safari on a Budget

7-Day Thrilling 7-Day Adventure Safari on a Budget

$1,210 to $1,650 pp (USD)

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Home » How Many Days Do You Need For A Safari In Kenya?

How Many Days Do You Need For A Safari In Kenya?

How Many Days Do You Need For A Safari In Kenya? Kenya should be your only stop if you only have time to visit one African nation. The iconic Maasai Mara is one of the most well-known wildlife reserves in this East African Region. This vast reserve is teeming with lions, cheetahs, elephants, zebras, hippos, and other wild animals. Another highlight is Lake Nakuru, which has some of the most beautiful scenery in the nation. Meanwhile, Nairobi, the bustling capital, is a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities.

kenya safari how many days

PLANNING YOUR SAFARI TRIP TO KENYA

Travelers flock to Kenya in droves to go on safari and take in the vibrant Maasai culture . On either brief tours or longer, more leisurely ones, there are ways to accomplish both. The number of days you have available will determine how far you can travel outside the city because the majority of travelers will fly into Nairobi, the capital. On shorter trips, it makes sense to stay close to Nairobi because there are still some great opportunities to see wildlife within a couple of hours of driving. You can travel farther and farther afield on longer itineraries.

Regardless of how long you plan to stay in Kenya, it’s crucial to time your trip to coincide with the best season for the sights and activities you want to experience. You can only go on safari during the dry season if you want to see the Great Migration or climb Mt. Kenya . Additionally, because it’s peak season, prices will be the highest. Travel to Kenya off-peak to save money, but be aware that the weather won’t be ideal for viewing wildlife. You must take safety precautions into account if you plan to climb Mount Kenya , and visiting during the off-season is not a good idea.

HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I SPEND IN KENYA?

If you’re unsure of how long to stay in Kenya, we advise that you extend your stay as much as you can. Although this is not an option, our recommendation is that you book a trip to Kenya that lasts at least five days and takes in the main attractions of the region’s southern safari circuit. Even though there are shorter safari tours available, it might not be worthwhile to visit Kenya for just a long weekend.

If you have more time, we advise going on a trip that lasts between ten and fourteen days. Both well-known and obscure wildlife destinations are adequately covered by this time frame. If you have more time, you can go further north to Samburu to see endangered animal species like the Somali ostrich and the East African Oryx.

5 DAYS IN KENYA

During a five-day visit to Kenya, choose the quickest and likely most well-liked wildlife safari loop. Go on a safari in the Maasai Mara, where the Big Five call home, from Nairobi. Explore the wildlife reserve for two days before moving on to Lake Nakuru. Giving Lake Nakuru at least one day is what we advise. However, just in case you are an enthusiastic birder, you might want to stay two days here, where countless bird species congregate every year and tens of thousands of flamingos line the shores. On the final day, take a drive back to Nairobi to catch your flight home.

7 DAYS IN KENYA

If you plan to stay in Kenya for seven days, you can fit a couple more places into your itinerary. From Nairobi, take a drive south to Amboseli National Park, known for its sizable herds of wild elephants and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro .

 Continue on to Lake Naivasha to see Mount Longonot, an extinct volcano. Take an off-road safari through the Maasai Mara’s grassy plains. After a few days and a safari, you can go to Shaba National Reserve, where sizable prides of lions congregate during the daytime beneath thickets.

10 DAYS IN KENYA

If you intend to spend ten days in Kenya, in addition to the places mentioned above, you should also add the Aberdares range, which is nearly four hours away from Nairobi. As you hike through the mountains, you’ll come across majestic peaks, gushing waterfalls, forested ravines, and vast moorlands. If you’re lucky, you might have the opportunity to see mountain bongos and long-haired colobus monkeys.

 You can continue on from there to the Ol Pejeta Conservancy , which has the highest number of large mammals in Kenya, including the rare reticulated giraffe and Grevy’s zebra. Before heading back to the capital, stop one last time at Lake Naivasha.

kenya safari how many days

2 WEEKS IN KENYA

Nine stops can easily be made on a two-week trip through Kenya to get you from the southern to the northernmost point of the nation. Before proceeding to your first destination, the archaeological site of Olorgesailie, spend a day taking in the sights and sounds of the nation’s capital. Here, you can take a guided tour and discover more about the lifestyle of the earliest Homo sapiens. After that, proceed to Magadi Lake and take in a picnic lunch at the Soda Ash hot springs.

Give two days to Sleeping Warrior Hill and Lake Elementaita, both of which are in the Great Rift Valley. Numerous animal species, such as zebras, gazelles, elands, and the endangered Rothschild giraffe, find refuge along the lake’s shores. Less than three hours from the lake are Lake Bogoria’s hot springs and geysers, in case you want to give your tired muscles a break.

 Then, change up your itinerary by going to Iten, which is home to some of the world’s top distance runners. Before returning to the capital, see Lake Turkana and gain more knowledge about why it serves as a significant crocodile breeding ground.

FACTORS AFFECTING HOW LONG YOU MIGHT STAY ON KENYA SAFARI

Numerous factors will determine how long your Kenya safari lasts. Among the most important ones are:

Your budget: When planning an African safari, this may be the most important factor to take into account. A number of variables affect how much a safari costs.

The number of parks you will be visiting

The type of accommodation you will be using

Whether you will have exclusive transport or share it with other travelers

Travel time between parks: The travel time between parks can occasionally equal an entire day. When figuring out how much time you’ll need for your Kenya safari , you must consider the time it will take you to travel from one park to the next. Although flying on one of the light aircraft that service these parks can cut down on the amount of time you spend traveling between them, doing so will add significantly to your costs and may not be feasible for many visitors.

Jetlag: You must account for the time it will take you to acclimate to East African time once you get there. For visitors from the USA, daytime in East Africa is equivalent to nighttime in their home countries. Give yourself a day or two to rest once you get there if you want to enjoy your safari without feeling grouchy and exhausted. You can stay in Nairobi or Arusha during this period.

Beach time: Before returning home, many visitors enjoy spending a few days on one of East Africa’s white sandy beaches.

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Safari in Kenya

Easy steps to explore kenya.

1 . Share your Kenya plan below

2 . Check matching tours with prices on the next page

3 . Select any tour or check with us for personalized suggestions

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1. How big is your party?

Group size for your Kenya Safari. We arrange Private Safaris only.

Solo

"Phenomenal"

"Yes, that was the word on loop this trip.Letaloi planned perfect safari drives for the 3 days.He is informative & trained with a natural instinct to track;he came across genuinely warm, patient and friendly..." Read full review

Dr. Simon & Swapna

Wonderful safari.

"We had an amazing 6 days safari to Masai Mara, lake Nakuru, lake Navasha and Amboseli in late October, and it was our best travel experience ever. We booked through Mojhi.com and the process was smooth and hassle-free..." Read full review

Trip of a lifetime

"My wife and I came for our honeymoon and monkey could not have been better or more responsive. They arranged great places, even on short notice in the high season. It was such an exceptional experience that two days before the end we extended another three days..." Read full review

Alexander P

Magical experience.

"Monkey Adventures were very professional from start to finish. I was recommended the perfect itinerary and luxury accommodation for the length i was staying in Kenya. The communication from the outset was impressive with all questions promptly dealt with.They were..." Read full review

Safari of a Lifetime

"If you want the trip of a lifetime, you have to book with Monkey Adventures with Dennis as your guide! You get to spend 5 days with the guide and let me tell you by the end of the trip we felt we were family..." Read full review

An Amazing Experience

"We had a great great and another great experience in our safari in Masai Mara, Naivasha Lake and Nakuru Lake. This experience wouldn't have been this great without Dennis our guide. I would highly recommend going on safari with Monkey Adventures..." Read full review

Kamal Elsoueni

Absolutely fantastic.

"The process of booking the Safari was easy and communication was great. We did a lot of travelling from Nairobi to Masai and Lake Nakuru, but always felt very safe and very interesting seeing different landscapes and villages. Would definitely recommend this company..." Read full review

IMAGES

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COMMENTS

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

    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 ...

  2. Number of Days Needed for African Safari

    1 Day: Many of the National Parks in Kenya will require you to enter the Great Rift Valley. If you will be taking your safari in Kenya, You will definitely get a chance to see this beautiful Scenery: Grassland Savanah: Abundant 1 Day: All of the popular Safaris are located in a grassland Savannah. Forests: Rare 1-5 Days

  3. Best Safari in Kenya

    Q: How many days do you recommend? A: My advice is to think long and hard about how many days you'll actually need for your safari. I had initially assumed we'd want at least 5 days, but our travel agent insisted that 3-4 days would be plenty. She was right.

  4. How Many Days to Spend in Kenya

    Many people travel to Kenya to go on safari and experience the country's proud Maasai culture. There are ways to do both on either short tours or longer, more leisurely ones. As most people will fly into Nairobi, the capital, the number of days you have at your disposal will determine how far you can travel beyond the city. It makes sense to ...

  5. How long to spend in Kenya when on Safari

    I also did some research with a number of tour companies and here is what I found. How long you stay in Kenya will depend on your budget the number of parks and attractions that you intend to visit. Ideally, though, you will want to spend at least 2 weeks in Kenya with the time being divided among three national parks and the coast.

  6. A Magical Kenya Itinerary

    Kenya Itinerary - 2 Weeks (Option B) This is the itinerary for my Rock My Kenya Adventure - check it out here. Day 1: Nairobi. Day 2 - 5: Samburu National Reserve. Day 6 - 7: Ol Pejeta. Day 8: Lake Nakuru. Day 9 - 11: Masai Mara. Day 12 - 14: Lamu.

  7. Great Kenya Itineraries: How Many Days to Spend?

    5 days in Kenya. Go for the shortest and probably the most popular wildlife safari loop during a five-day stay in Kenya. From Nairobi go for a safari in Maasai Mara, home to the Big Five. Spend two days exploring the wildlife reserve before heading for Lake Nakuru. We suggest giving at least a day to Lake Nakuru.

  8. Best Kenya Safari Guide

    That being said, there are still superb safari options here, including Samburu National Park, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy and Laikipia. The more arid conditions suit species like gerenuk, the Somali ostrich and Grevy's zebra. Lewa is also the best place in Kenya to see rhino regularly and consistently.

  9. Kenya Itinerary (Safaris, Culture & Adventure)

    A 7-day Kenya tour involves exploring Nairobi, hiking Mount Longonot, game viewing in Masai Mara, enjoying coastal vibes, and much more. 10-Day Itinerary: A 10-day trip to Kenya covers Nairobi, Hell's Gate, Masai Mara, Amboseli, and the Kenyan coast. An alternative to this itinerary is a 10-day trip to northern Kenya.

  10. Safari in Kenya

    For wetland safari & birdwatching. By Stuart Butler. 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.

  11. A Kenya Safari Holiday: How To Plan The Perfect Trip For You

    The first thing you need to decide when planning your safari holiday in Kenya is where you want to go. Kenya is a huge country, covering 225,000 square miles (582,000 square km), making it about the same size as Texas. Within that there are 23 national parks as well as a host of other game reserves, wildlife sanctuaries, marine parks and ...

  12. Kenya Safaris 101: A Comprehensive Guide for First-Timers

    Safari Vehicle (per day) under $100: $100 - $150: $151 - $250: over $250: Local Guide (per day) under $50: $50 - $150: ... Self-drive safaris in Kenya are available for those who prefer road travel, though poor road conditions in some areas can cause longer driving times. Car rental companies specializing in 4x4s typically offer driver ...

  13. 7 Day Kenya Itinerary: Best Luxury Safari + Big Five

    A Kenya safari is a journey into the heart of Africa's vibrant wildlife, and to truly soak in the experience, a Kenya safari itinerary of about 7 to 10 days is ideal. This span allows you to explore the diverse landscapes and ecosystems across different national parks and reserves. You might spend the first 2-3 days immersed in the vast ...

  14. Average Length of an African Safari (With 11 Examples)

    The average length of an African Safari is 5 to Seven days. When you include time spent on your international flight and resting from jetlag, most tourists have a total trip duration of 14 days from the time they leave their home country to the time they return. How long the Safari lasts will depend on budget and the number of parks they will ...

  15. Kenya Safari

    6-Day Kenya Budget Camping Safari. $847 to $1,177 pp (USD) Kenya: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Budget Tented Camp & Hotel. You Visit: Nairobi (Start), Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Amboseli NP, Nairobi Airport (End) Exciting Africa Holidays. 4.6 /5 - 25 Reviews.

  16. How many days do I need for a Safari in Kenya?

    However, many people find that a 7-day Kenya safari allows enough time to explore the diverse wildlife and landscapes of Kenya. This duration gives you the opportunity to witness different animal behaviors, experience various parts of the ecosystem, and enjoy the overall safari experience including seeing the Great wildebeest migration if you ...

  17. Kenya Wildlife Safari

    Kenya Wildlife Safari - 10 Days. View Map. This exciting 10-day itinerary allows you to truly discover Kenya's diverse wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Your trip will start in the bustling central city, Nairobi before you depart for the countryside and visit Amboseli National Park, which is home to Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro.

  18. How many days are enough for a perfect Kenyan safari?

    Many visitors come to Kenya in order to enjoy Kenya safari and learn about the rich Maasai culture of the nation. Both can be accomplished on shorter Kenya safari tours as well as longer, more leisurely ones. Since most tourists fly into Nairobi, the capital, how far you can travel outside of the city depends on how many days you have available.

  19. Best of Kenya: Landscape, Safari, & Beach

    If you want to experience all of Kenya's top destinations—while also getting the chance to lay back and relax—this exciting 12-day itinerary is for you. You'll start the trip in the bustling capital Nairobi before departing for Kenya's national parks to discover majestic landscapes, see the Big Five, spot diverse bird species, visit chimpanzees, watch an animal migration at Maasai Mara ...

  20. 15 Best Kenya Safari Tours 2024/2025

    Find the best Kenya Safari tours in 2024/2025 with TourRadar. Choose from 855 safaris with 1027 tour reviews. Book now and save up to 49% with TourRadar.com! ... 5 Days Kenya medium range safari for Amboseli and Tsavo Parks from Nairobi to Mombasa. From Nairobi to Mombasa. 4.0 (2 reviews)

  21. Kenya Safari: 6-Day Super Mid Range Masai Mara/Nakuru NP/Amboseli NP

    6-Day Super Mid Range Masai Mara/Nakuru NP/Amboseli NP. Enjoy thundering herds of migrating wildebeests, magnificent parades of great elephants and Africa's Big Five stalking the endless savannah. You'll experience all this plus Rift Valley lakes on this active 6 day safari. Mara is known for almost guaranteed sightings of the Big Five.

  22. How Many Days Do You Need For A Safari In Kenya?

    5 DAYS IN KENYA. During a five-day visit to Kenya, choose the quickest and likely most well-liked wildlife safari loop. Go on a safari in the Maasai Mara, where the Big Five call home, from Nairobi. Explore the wildlife reserve for two days before moving on to Lake Nakuru. Giving Lake Nakuru at least one day is what we advise.

  23. Monkey Adventures

    8+ Days. 4. When are you planning for the Safari? Give us an idea on when you are planning to visit Kenya. 5. And finally your contact Information. We will send quotes to your email ID. Your contact information will be confidential and will be used only to send quotes for Safari in Kenya. (We will send the quotes to this email id.