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Kenya Safari Tours and Holiday Packages

Find and book your dream safari in magical Kenya. There are 866 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.

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Best kenya safari tours based on 1,360 reviews.

• Christmas & New Year

7 Days 6 Nights Kenya luxury Safari

Of course, I can never have everything at heart that other travelers thinks of the Royal Safari tour BUT I would say it's so perfect and anyone else who would wish to go on a tour would consider Royal Safari since its one of the best. I was guided by Mr. Okumu Isaac throughout the entire time and I would describe him to be a gentleman, he explained everything I and my family asked. I seriously consider revisiting Royal Safari.

Kenya Wildlife Safari

The best trip I’ve ever done. Such an incredible experience. Absolutely magical to see these animals in the wild. And the team are amazing. I felt very safe at all times.

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.

Premium Kenya

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

Amazing Safari!!!! I recently embarked on a remarkable 6-day Safari to Maasai Mara and Serengeti National Park with Bon Voyage Safaris, and it was an experience that exceeded all my expectations. From start to finish, the trip was flawlessly organized, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable adventure. The knowledgeable and passionate guides truly made the journey exceptional. Their expertise and deep understanding of the wildlife and ecosystems enriched every moment of the safari. We witnessed awe-inspiring wildlife spectacles, including breathtaking lion sightings and the incredible wildebeest migration. The guides' ability to spot and interpret animal behavior was truly remarkable. Bon Voyage Safaris also took great care of our accommodations and meals. The lodges and tented camps we stayed in were luxurious, providing a comfortable and authentic safari experience. The delicious meals served showcased the flavors of the region and were a delightful complement to the overall journey. Overall, my 6-day Safari with Bon Voyage Safaris was an absolute dream come true. The company's attention to detail, exceptional guides, and unforgettable wildlife encounters made it an experience of a lifetime. I cannot recommend them highly enough for anyone seeking a truly exceptional African safari adventure.

Kenya Family Safari

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

Masai Mara Camping Safari

Our guide was great and interacted well with the group. He had lots of animal knowledge and found us some great animals. Our transport was a van but it made it there and back and wasn't too bad for game viewing. Plenty of space for the 6 of us. Accommodation is a basic tent with bed and mossie net but was all we really needed. Meals were good and there was always plenty. While the trip is advertised as 4 days, it's only 3. I would have enjoyed having an extra day to spend in the Mara.

Kenya Safari Experience National Geographic Journeys

It is Tim and I first time at a safari and we had a fantastic experience because Lilian and Vincent the driver from G-adventure was knowledgeable in their work. We very much enjoy it and is looking forward for the next trip. Thanks.

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.

Amboseli & Masai Mara Budget Safari By 4x4 Jeep

It was definitely an experience of a lifetime and you would not regret it.

7 Days, 6 Nights Safari To Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha And Amboseli With Complimentary First Night Accommodation at After 40 Hotel and free airport pickup.

We loved the variety of this tour - safari by vehicle, hot air balloon, bike, boat, and foot. The accommodations ranged from basic to good, so this tour is best for those who don’t need luxury accommodations, which we did not. The food was always very good and plentiful. We had 2 guides - Nathan and Tony, and both were excellent. They were friendly, knowledgeable, patient, and good drivers. The optional tours need to be updated on the description of the tour, as inflation has caused an increase in prices. The hot air balloon safari was $450/pp (a wonderful experience with a nice champagne picnic breakfast afterwards). The Massai village visit was $25/pp. We recommend both. Bring lots of cash for drinks, souvenirs, and tipping. We underestimated and ran out, but our guide made a stop at a bank for us to get more. Good communication and customer service from the tour company as well. Overall an incredible vacation. We will be back in Kenya in the future and would definitely use this company again.

7 Days Taylor -Made Kenya Luxury Safari

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

7 Days Kenya mid range Joining Safari

The communication with John was very good. He was very responsive and answered all of our questions. At first we were slightly hesitant to do a down payment but this is just how safari operators work and in the end was nothing to worry about, it all went fine. The safari was great! The 4x4 van was very comfortable and steady and brought us to the most remote places of the parks. Kennedy, our driver, was awesome and has a lot of knowledge on the animals, the country and is an amazingly skilled driver. He made our safari just as we wanted it and was as thrilled to see animals as we were. We saw all of the Big Five and managed to get very close to them. Thank you so much Kennedy and John!

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.

6 Days Kenya Budget Small Group 4x4 Jeep Safari

This safari was most excellent! Our driver/guide, Zack, was absolutely phenomenal! He was a wealth of knowledge about all the different wildlife, made every effort to ensure that we saw as much as we could and provided plenty of photo opportunities. I didn’t think it could get any better than the first day, but I was wrong! Overall, we saw 70+ species of wildlife in their natural habitat, to include a cheetah and 4 cubs! I truly enjoyed this unforgettable experience (including the food and culture)! Also, Albert was great at setting everything up, handled pre-safari hotel reservations, scheduled airport pickup and was very prompt with communication. If you’re looking for a safari adventure, I highly recommend Exciting Africa Holidays!

Kenya Safari Tour Reviews

I enjoyed the tour The good was good and the guide was sharp

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• Kenya Safari

The ultimate guide to your next Kenya Safari

Get to know kenya.

By Matthys van Aswegen

Safari Travel Planner

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

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

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

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Enjoy an authentic African experience, with peace of mind

• Meet and learn about the famous Maasai culture during a safari in Kenya.
• About 60 national parks and reserves are located in Kenya. The Masai-Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo national parks are some of the most well-known.
• It’s a great destination as it has a selection of rustic beaches to relax on after an exciting safari in Kenya.
• Observing the Great Migration in Kenya is a must for every wildlife lover visiting Kenya. This is nature’s most fantastic migration, with hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle moving through East Africa.
• The lakes of Africa’s Rift Valley connect three sizable catchments and cross numerous countries. Eight lakes, including the gorgeous birdlife-attracting Lake Naivasha, are found in Kenya. A “soda lake,” Lake Nakuru is well known for drawing sizable groups of flamingos that feed in the shallows.

Where to go in Kenya

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

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

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

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

Highlights of Amboseli National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Practical Advice for an Amboseli Safari

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights of Laikipia Plateau

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Tips for Laikipia Plateau

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights of the Masai Mara National Reserve

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Practical Advice for the Masai Mara National Reserve

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights of Mombasa and its Surrounds

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Practical Advice for Mombasa and Surrounds

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Tips for Mount Kenya and Aberdares

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights of the Northwest Kenya Safari Circuit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Practical Advice for a Northwest Kenya Safari Circuit

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights of Rift Valley Lakes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights of Samburu Springs and Mount Meru National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Practical Advice for Samburu Springs and Mount Meru National Park

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

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

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

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

Highlights of a Southern Safari Circuit in Kenya

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Practical Advice for a Southern Safari Circuit in Kenya

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights of The Coastal Belt of Kenya

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Practical Advice for The Coastal Belt of Kenya

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights of Tsavo East and West in Kenya

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Practical Advice for Tsavo East and West in Kenya

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights of Watamu and Malinda

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Practical Advice for Watamu and Malinda in Kenya

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

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When is the best month to travel to kenya.

• Kenya in January

January tends to fall in Kenya’s wet season in the broader sense of the term (November to May). It lies outside of the two notable ‘long’ and ‘short’ rain periods, which means that you can expect much less rain with stunning landscapes, albeit unpredictable at times. Potential showers are generally quite short and occur in the afternoon, so they won’t affect your safari.

Nairobi and the central highlands are hot by day, cool by night, and receive moderate rain. Mombasa and the coast are scorching by day, rather hot at night, and receive little rainfall.

The Rift Valley and western interior are hot by day, cool at night, and receive very little rainfall.

• January is a good time for beach holidays on the Kenyan coast, though daytime temperatures can get very high. This is an excellent time to visit the Mara because January is when it experiences one of its driest spells, with only around five days of rain.
• Game viewing in most Kenya safari destinations is good in January. Birdlife is boosted by a variety of intra-African and Palaearctic migrants.
• For divers and snorkelers, January is probably the best month to see larger marine creatures such as whale sharks, manta rays, and various sharks, dolphins, and turtles.
• Being relatively warm and dry, January is one of the best months for climbing Mount Kenya.
• Kenya in February

Nairobi and the central highlands are hot by day, cool by night, and receive a moderate amount of rain. Mombasa and the coast are sweltering by day, rather hot at night, and receive very little rain.

• February is a good time for beach holidays on the Kenyan coast, though daytime temperatures can get very high. Game viewing in most safari destinations in Kenya is good this time of the year, while birdlife is boosted by various intra-African and Palaearctic migrants.
• February experiences the lowest precipitation levels in the Masai Mara, compared to the rest of the year, with only around three days of rain. Due to this, the chances of spotting the wildlife at the watering holes are higher.
• For divers and snorkelers, February is a good month to see the larger marine creatures such as whale sharks, manta rays, and various sharks, dolphins, and turtles. Being relatively warm and dry, February is one of the best months for climbing Mount Kenya – Africa’s second highest peak after Mount Kilimanjaro in neighboring Tanzania.
• Kenya in March

Nairobi and the central highlands are hot by day, comfortable at night, and receive moderate to high rainfall. Mombasa and the coast are very hot by day, rather hot at night, and receive occasional rain.

The Rift Valley and western interior are hot by day, cool at night, and receive periodic rain.

• March is the hottest month on the coast, but if you can tolerate the heat, it’s a good time for beach holidays .
• March usually signals the start of the long rains in most Kenya safari destinations , which means that game viewing can be relatively challenging, as animals are dispersed away from water sources. Thick vegetation tends to reduce visibility, and minor tracks may be inaccessible when inundated with water.
• Coastal areas will benefit from clear sea visibility before the arrival of the rains, so diving is excellent, and marine life abounds.
• Kenya in April

Nairobi and the central highlands are hot by day, comfortable at night, and receive plenty of rain. Mombasa and the coast are very hot by day, rather hot at night, and receive little rain.

• The Rift Valley and western interior are hot by day, cool at night, and receive high rainfall. April can produce some moody backdrops for wildlife and landscape photography – be sure to take the correct gear along to protect yourself and your equipment from the elements.
• April is one of the wettest months on the coast and not suitable for beach holidays or underwater activities. As a result, game viewing can be challenging, as animals are dispersed away from water sources, and thick vegetation tends to reduce visibility. Minor tracks may be inaccessible when inundated with water. Most Intra-African and Palearctic migrant birds will have flown north by April.
• Kenya in May

The Rift Valley and western interior are hot by day, cool at night, and receive high rainfall.

May could be an excellent (more cost-effective) option for seasoned safari-goers because it offers the chance to experience a Kenya safari in a completely different light.

Although, this is not recommended for first-time safari enthusiasts because the chances of seeing much wildlife are slimmer.

• May is by far the wettest month on the coast, with an average monthly rainfall of more than 300mm (12in), making it a very poor time for beach holidays or underwater activities.
• The long rains continue into May in many Kenya safari destinations . As a result, game viewing can be challenging, as animals are dispersed away from water sources, and thick vegetation tends to reduce visibility. Minor tracks may be inaccessible when inundated with water.
• Kenya in June

Nairobi and the central highlands are warm by day, cool at night, and receive little rainfall. Mombasa and the coast are hot by day, relatively cool at night, and receive a fair amount of rain.

The Rift Valley and western interior are hot by day, cool at night, and receive occasional rain. Some of the rains brought in by the Kusi monsoon occur early in June. However, as the month progresses, the cooler, drier weather develops.

The climate throughout June becomes much more comfortable than in the preceding months, particularly in the highlands.

Although drier, it is likely to remain cloudy, keeping the sun and higher temperatures at bay. This can be a great time to travel with children as you don’t need to worry about humidity and constant sunscreen application.

• June is one of the wettest months on the coast and not suitable for beach holidays or underwater activities.
• Game viewing in most safari destinations in Kenya is good in June.
• First held in 2008, the annual Lake Turkana Festival, a colourful showcase for 14 traditionalist ethnic communities associated with the northern deserts, takes place in the small town of Loiyangalani, usually in June.
• Kenya in July

Nairobi and the central highlands are warm by day, cool at night, and receive practically no rain. Mombasa and the coast are hot by day, relatively cool at night, and receive a fair amount of rain.

The Rift Valley and western interior are hot by day, cool at night, and receive moderate to high rainfall.

Come prepared with lots of layers, especially for morning and night drives – this is even more important in higher altitude parks and conservancies such as the Mara and Laikipia.

• July is an ideal time for beach holidays on the Kenyan coast, being the coolest month and relatively dry. Game viewing in most safari destinations is good in July.
• The wildebeest migration sometimes arrives in the Masai Mara towards the end of the month, making it a spectacular opportunity to possibly view river crossings.
• Kenya in August

The Rift Valley and western interior are hot by day, cool at night, and receive rather high rainfall.

• August is an ideal time for beach holidays on the Kenyan coast, being the second-coldest month and relatively dry. Game viewing in most safari destinations is good in August. August is usually when the migration arrives in Kenya from Tanzania and prime wildlife-viewing season in the Masai Mara.
• Although safari guides will try their best to take you to the quieter areas at the right time, if you’re looking for a less crowded experience, consider a different time of the year.
• Humpback whales are often seen off the coast in August-September.
• Kenya’s quirkiest annual event since it was first held in 1990 is the International Camel Derby Festival. This three-day event takes place in Maralal, usually on the second weekend in August.
• Kenya in September

Nairobi and the central highlands are hot by day, cool at night, and receive practically no rain. Mombasa and the coast are hot by day, relatively cool at night, and receive a fair amount of rain.

The Rift Valley and western interior are hot by day, cool at night, and receive moderate rainfall.

• September is a good time for beach holidays on the Kenyan coast, being relatively cool and dry.
• Game viewing in most safari destinations during a holiday in Kenya is good in September. The wildebeest migration is usually well ensconced in the Masai Mara, making it arguably the best time to visit this reserve.
• Humpback whales are often seen off the coast in August-September. Being relatively dry in the highlands, September is one of the best months for climbing Mount Kenya .
• Kenya in October

Nairobi and the central highlands are hot by day, cool by night, and might receive occasional rain. Mombasa and the coast are very hot by day, rather hot at night, and receive moderate to high rainfall.

• October is a reasonable time for beach holidays on the Kenyan coast, being relatively cool and not too wet.
• Game viewing in Kenya on safari at most safari destinations is good in October. The wildebeest migration is usually still found in the Masai Mara, making it a great time to be on safari there.
• The post-migration calm and pleasant climate make October a good time to visit Kenya for a safari. Wildebeest and zebra can still be seen in their numbers throughout the Mara, offering great photographic safari opportunities .
• Kenya in November

Nairobi and the central highlands are hot by day, cool by night and receive a high rainfall.

Mombasa and the coast is very hot by day, rather hot at night, and receives a moderate to high rainfall. The Rift Valley and western interior are hot by day, cool at night and receive a moderate rainfall.

• November isn’t the best time for beach holidays on the Kenyan coast, since it is quite wet and daytime temperatures can get very high. Game viewing in most safari destinations is good in November, though there is a risk of it being interrupted by storms during the short rains. This transitional month also usually heralds the arrival of large numbers of intra-African and Palaearctic migrant birds.
• For divers and snorkelers, November is a good month to see larger marine creatures such as whale shark, manta ray, and various sharks, dolphins and turtles.
• The multicultural Mombasa Carnival, Kenya’s most colourful street festival, is held in the eponymous port city every November.
• Kenya in December

Nairobi and the central highlands are hot by day, cool by night and receive a moderate to high amount of rain. Mombasa and the coast is very hot by day, rather hot at night, and might receive occasional rainfall.

The Rift Valley and western interior are hot by day, cool at night and receive occasional rain.

From December onwards the Tsavo sees an increase in humidity and although it can get rather intense, it’s still a good time to visit the coastal regions. The ocean breeze also helps to alleviate the heat and the warm water is a pleasure.

• December isn’t the best time for beach holidays on the Kenyan coast, since it is quite wet and daytime temperatures can get very high. Game viewing in most safari destinations is good in December. Birdlife is boosted by a variety of intra-African and Palaearctic migrants.
• For divers and snorkelers, December is a good month to see larger marine creatures such as whale shark, manta ray, and various sharks, dolphins and turtles.

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Faqs about kenya.

• The currency that you will be using on a Kenya Safari is the Kenyan shilling.
• Pack neutral-coloured clothing to blend into the bush during Game drives
• Long-sleeved shirts help to provide sun and mosquito protection
• T-shirts and shorts are also great for warmer days
• Evenings and cooler days call for jeans or longer pants 
• A rain-proof jacket is always a good idea to pack along
• White Rhino
• Cape Buffalo
• Masai ostrich
• African Leopard
• The Nile Crocodile
• African Elephants
• The most apparent area to look for rhinos is Nairobi National Park, which is located on the outskirts of Nairobi, Kenya's capital. This national park is a fantastic place to visit during a safari in Kenya . 
• Nairobi National Park is a national park in Kenya's south-central region, located 5 miles (8 kilometers) south of Nairobi.
• August is the best time to see the wildebeest migration cross the Mara River . The crossings will continue through September - which is generally your last chance of seeing them cross the Mara River.
• Kenya has a world of variety when it comes to tented accommodation camps, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another realm in the bush as your every desire comes try.

Our Recommended Activities in Kenya

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

A fairly new activity to the African safari, camelback riding is an incredible experience.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See Kenya in Your Comfort

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Holiday Styles and Options in Kenya

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who is Travelling to Kenya with you?

• Couple Holiday in Kenya
• Solo Travelling Through Kenya

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

Highlights on a Couple Holiday in Kenya

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

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

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

Travel Tips on a Couple Holiday in Kenya

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

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

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

Highlights of a Family Safari in Kenya

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

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

Travel Tips for a Family Safari in Kenya

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

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

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

Highlights on a Solo Safari in Kenya

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

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

Travel Tips for Solo Safari in Kenya

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

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

What You Need To Know

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

Often regarded to be the ultimate safari destination, Kenya undoubtedly incorporates some of the continent’s most rewarding and exciting national parks and wildlife reserves. Best known is the incomparable Masai Mara , whose undulating green grasslands support staggering concentrations of lion, cheetah, spotted hyena, and other predators.

From August to October, the Mara also hosts the world’s greatest wildlife spectacle , when hundreds of thousands of manically stampeding wildebeest stream across the Mara River from neighboring Tanzania.

No less iconic is Amboseli, where some of the continent’s most impressive and well-habituated elephant herds can be seen crossing the dusty plains below snow-capped Kilimanjaro , the world’s tallest freestanding mountain.

The country is bisected by a dramatic stretch of the Rift Valley floor, which is studded with gem-like lakes. There’s Lake Nakuru, shores grazed by prehistoric-looking rhinos; Lake Bogoria, its shallows tinged pink by more than a million flamingos; and lovely Lake Naivasha, fringed by reedbeds that are alive with birds and hippos.

Arguably the most unique of the Kenya reserves are those lying north of the equator. Here, Laikipia, Samburu-Buffalo Springs, and Meru support a range of dry-country specialists – the lovely Reticulated giraffe, the outsized Grevy’s zebra, the freaky Gerenuk, and many dozens of colorful birds – at the southern limit of their restricted range.

There’s no better index of Kenya’s biodiversity, perhaps, than its national bird checklist of more than 1,000 species – placing it third in Africa, a figure made all the more remarkable when you realize that it doesn’t make the continent’s top 20 countries in terms of surface area.

Kenya is undoubtedly one of Africa’s finest Big Five safari destinations . But it has a great deal more to offer than just safaris. Culturally, it is a fascinating mass of contradictions.

One of Africa’s most developed countries, it has an unusually high level of education, a substantial middle class, world-class tourist facilities, and a growing industrial belt sprawling out from its bustling capital.

Yet, away from the cities on dusty plains populated by pastoralists such as the Maasai, Samburu, and Turkana, it ranks among the most visibly traditional of African nations.

Then there is the sultry Indian Ocean coastline, which comprises more than 500km (311mi) of idyllic beach frontage set to a backdrop of mysterious medieval ruins, dense tropical jungles, and traditional Swahili port towns.

Offshore are coral reefs whose kaleidoscopic swirl of fish is as delightful to snorkelers and divers as the country’s more familiar terrestrial wildlife.

• Almost all visitors from abroad fly in. Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta Airport (NBO) is the main port of entry for international flights, and it has excellent connections to most other parts of Kenya and many other African capitals. Some carriers also operate international flights to Mombasa Moi International Airport (MBA).The national carrier, Kenya Airways, operates an extensive network of flights to and from major cities in Europe, Asia, and elsewhere in Africa.
• Most major international carriers operate direct flights between their home country and South Africa, among them Air France, Air Mauritius, British Airways, EgyptAir, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, Etihad, KLM, LAM Mozambique Airlines, Lufthansa, Malawian Airlines, Oman Air, Qatar, Rwandair, Royal Air Maroc, South African Airlines, Swiss International Airlines and Turkish Airlines and Virgin Atlantic. Particularly coming from a major European city such as London or Paris, there might be dozens of indirect options, and you can save a lot of money by shopping around.
• It’s possible to enter Kenya overland from the neighboring countries of Ethiopia, Uganda, and Tanzania, but you’d only be likely to do so as part of an extended overland trip through Africa or if you were doing a multi-country safari.

A safari in Kenya attracts plenty of repeat visitors. The main reason for this is the unpredictability of its game reserves (no two days on safari are ever alike) and its immense variety of safari destinations (it would be difficult to do full justice to more than half of them in the course of one vacation).

Many people develop an affinity of one particular beach resort, be it Diani, Watamu or Malindi, and return there every few years to soak up the sun and relaxed atmosphere. For independent travelers, Kenya’s extraordinary diversity and number of attractions are enough to keep you busy for a two-month trip – or several shorter ones!

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

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

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

South Africa is a far more family-friendly safari destination than Kenya. Both countries have a superb coastlines, but South Africa’s beach resorts tend to be better developed for families and children. In contrast, the ancient ports of Kenya have an interesting cultural dimension provided by the Swahili people and some fantastic ruins dating back to medieval times.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nairobi and, to a lesser extent, Mombasa and Malindi are equipped with a fair selection of shops and malls, at least by African standards. Shops in smaller towns are less varied and more poorly stocked, but most regulation items likely required by tourists will be available.

Once on safari in Kenya, the only options are usually gift shops in lodges and camps, which generally stock a fair selection of basic toiletries, books about Kenya, expensive touristy clothing, handicrafts, and a few packaged goods such as chocolate bars, crisps, and chewing gum.

The opportunities for craft shopping in Kenya are practically endless. There are handicraft shops, and stalls dotted all around Nairobi and the various coastal resorts, as well as along several of the more widely-used trunk roads and outside game reserves, and national parks.

In addition to an almost limitless choice of tacky identikit wildlife carvings and paintings, a range of more interesting and individualistic items are available.

These include the intricate Makonde carvings and fantastically stylized Tingatinga paintings from neighboring Tanzania, inventive batiks, traditional musical instruments, Akamba basketwork, Gusii soapstone carvings, malachite knick-knacks, Maasai beadwork, and other tribal items, as well as toys made inventively from wire, wood or whatever other materials the creator found to hand.

Craft shops generally charge fixed prices, though there may be some slight wiggle room for negotiation. Bargaining is essential at craft stalls. To get a feel for prices, ask the price of a few similar items at different stalls before you contemplate buying anything.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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DISCOVER AFRICA SAFARIS

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Discover Africa

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

WILD & UNTAMED SAFARIS

Explore a Kenya safari

Unrivalled wildlife experiences.

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

Governors' Camp Collection

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

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Kenya at a glance

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

Kenya key facts

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

POPULATION SIZE

Kenyan shilling (KES)

GEOGRAPHICAL SIZE

582,646 km²

BEST TIME TO GO

All year round

Swahili & English

Open plains

Classic savannah landscape, with grassy plains.

Riverine forests

Lush green forest on the banks of the Mara River.

Saline lakes

Lake Nakuru, surrounded by wooded grassland.

Central Kenya is mountainous.

Blue wildebeest

Seen in huge numbers in Kenya’s Masai Mara.

Grevy's zebra

The largest of the zebras and a welcome sighting.

Masai giraffe

This species is native to East Africa.

Kenya is a stronghold for Africa’s cheetahs.

Kenya weather

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

March to June & November

GREEN SEASON

July to October

TRANSITION SEASON

January to February

Where is Kenya located?

Kenya is in East Africa.

What language is spoken in Kenya?

Swahili and English

What to wear on safari in Kenya?

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

Are Kenya safaris safe?

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

When to go on safari in Kenya?

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

Do I need a visa to travel to Kenya?

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

Vaccinations

What is the covid protocol for travelling to kenya.

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

Do I need a yellow fever vaccination to visit Kenya?

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

Is there Malaria in Kenya?

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

Let’s plan your next journey

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

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Sub regions inside

Broader region.

Kenya is located in East Africa and encompasses classic savannah, mountain highlands, colourful tribal cultures, freshwater lakes and pristine coral reefs. The Masai Mara is world renowned for the “ Great Mammal Migration ” and sightings of the famous “Big Five” (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino). The soda lake known as Lake Nakuru lights up with pink flamingos, whilst the Amboseli National Park offers sanctuary to an abundance of wildlife and birdlife. Kenya is home to Africas second highest mountain, whilst the Tsavo and Samburu game reserves offer rewarding safari experiences. Kenya boasts unforgettable bush and beach vacations with destinations such as Diani Beach providing the perfect setting for some well-deserved relaxation.

Kenya is a year-round destination for both safari and beach holidays.

The main tourist seasons tie in with the rainfall patterns: the biggest influxes of visitors are in December – January and July – August .

Dry-season travel has a number of advantages, not least of which is the greater visibility of wildlife as animals are concentrated along the diminishing watercourses. July to September is probably the best period, overall, for game-viewing, with early September almost certain to coincide with the annual wildebeest migration in the Maasai Mara.

October, November, and March are the months with the clearest seas for snorkeling and diving. In the long rains, the mountain parks are occasionally closed, as the muddy tracks are undrivable. But the rainy seasons shouldn’t deter travel unduly: the rains usually come only in short afternoon or evening cloudbursts, and the landscape is strikingly green and fresh even if the skies may be cloudy. There are bonuses, too: fewer other tourists, reduced prices and often perfect light for photography.

Renowned for its classic savanna safaris, Kenya is a beautiful country with deserts, alpine snows, forests, open plains, colorful tribal cultures, freshwater lakes and coral reefs. The wildlife safaris have always been the top attraction in Kenya. This huge wilderness is home to the most impressive wildlife spectacle on earth; The great migration. The great migration is a pilgrimage of millions of wildebeest and zebra in search of new pastures. The herds are followed by vast numbers of predators, including lions, hyenas and cheetahs. Other activities to be experienced in Kenya include trekking Mount Kenya, ballooning over the Masai Mara and snorkeling in Malindi on the Indian Ocean coast.

Masai Mara National Park

The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the top tourist attractions in Kenya and the country’s most popular game park. Each year the Masai Mara National Reserve is visited by thousands of tourists who come here to watch the exceptional population of game and the annual migration of zebra and wildebeest. The “Great Migration” takes place every year from July to October when millions of wildebeest and zebra migrate from the Serengeti in Tanzania.

Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park is a relatively small park located close to the Tanzania border at the foot of Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro. The park is famous for being the best place in Africa to get close to free-ranging elephants. Other wildlife includes giraffes, zebras, cheetahs and hundreds of bird species. ‘Must do’ attractions in the Amboseli National Park include meeting the Maasai people and witnessing the spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park is just a short drive from the center of Nairobi with only a fence separating the park’s wildlife from the metropolis. It is the only national park in the world to be found within the precincts of a capital city. Nairobi’s skyscrapers can be seen from the park. Despite its proximity to the city and the relatively small size of the park, Nairobi National Park boasts a large and varied wildlife population including the endangered black rhino, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, buffaloes, giraffes and diverse birdlife with over 400 species recorded.

Malindi is a town on Malindi Bay, in southeastern Kenya. It sits amid a string of tropical beaches dotted with hotels and resorts.Malindi provides a very nice introduction to the coastal tourist attractions in Kenya with its extensive coral reefs and beautiful beaches. There are surfing, snorkeling, deep-sea fishing and other water sports. The Malindi Marine National Park and nearby Watamu Marine National Park have protected areas with beautiful beaches, clear water, turtles and very colorful fish. Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve harbors elephants and more than 200 species of birds.

Mombasa is Kenya's main tourist destination. It is on the eastern coastline of Kenya, bordering the Indian Ocean which has made it a popular destination for its beaches. Mombasa is a place where both history and progress are greatly valued, where a busy harbor existence is lived at its own unique, tropical pace. Mombasa offers a diverse marine life, world-class hotels, and friendly atmosphere. There is a tropical climate all year and it is a great destination filled with activities for all ages.

Mount Kenya

Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya and the second-highest in Africa, after Kilimanjaro. The mountain is an awe-inspiring sight and is often referred to as the ‘Place of Light’. Its ragged series of peaks are crowned with snow, and its slopes are covered with forest. The 5199 meter (17,057 ft) high summit is a difficult technical climb, several lowers peaks, however, are an easy destination for any fit trekker. The majority of animals live lower down on the slopes of Mount Kenya. Here there is more vegetation and the climate is less extreme. Various species of monkeys, several antelopes, tree hyrax, porcupines and some larger animals such as elephant and buffalo all live in the forest.

Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve is a very peaceful national park in Rift Valley Province of Kenya. It attracts wildlife because of the Uaso Nyiro River that runs through it and the mixture of forest and grassland vegetation. All three big cats, lion, cheetah and leopard, can be found here, as well as elephants, buffalo and hippos. The Uaso Nyiro River contains large numbers of Nile crocodile. Samburu also offers a sublime birding experience.

Hell’s Gate National Park

Hell’s Gate National Park is a small park named after a narrow break in the cliffs, once a tributary of a prehistoric lake that fed early humans in the Rift Valley. It is unique among Kenya’s wildlife parks, as you are allowed to walk or cycle without a guide. There’s dramatic scenery, with steep cliffs, gorges and basalt columns. The national park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, though many are few in number. Examples of little-seen wildlife include lions, leopards, and cheetahs.

Lamu Island

Lamu Island is a part of Kenya’s Lamu Archipelago and has managed to stay unspoiled and untouched by the mass tourism that has hit much of Kenya’s coastline. As the oldest living town in Kenya, Lamu Town has retained all the charm and character built up over centuries. There are no roads on Lamu Island, just alleyways and footpaths, and therefore, there are few motorized vehicles on the island. Residents move about on foot or by boat, and donkeys are used to transport goods and materials.

Tsavo National Park

Tsavo is one of the oldest and largest national parks in Kenya and in the world. Due to its size, the park was divided into Tsavo West and Tsavo East. The Tsavo West has spectacular scenery with a rolling volcanic landscape while Tsavo East has more open savannah than its western sibling. Tsavo National Park is the ideal destination in Kenya for people who seek solitude and privacy as well as the chance to explore the wilderness. The park is home to most of the larger mammals, vast herds of dust-red elephant, Rhino, buffalo, lion, leopard, pods of hippo, crocodile, waterbucks, Lesser Kudu, gerenuk and the prolific bird life features 500 recorded species.

Lake Nakuru

Lake Nakuru is a very shallow lake in central Kenya. The lake’s abundance of algae attracts vast quantities of flamingos, sometimes more than one million at once. Often called the greatest bird spectacle on earth, the flamingos are one of Kenya’s top attractions. Visitors can enjoy the wide ecological diversity and varied habitats that range from Lake Nakuru itself to the surrounding escarpment and picturesque ridges. Lake Nakuru National Park is ideal for bird watching, hiking, and game drives.

Apr 20, 2024

Excellent news information and service…

Excellent news information and service from Sara. She made it a smooth experience booking a safari.

Apr 17, 2024

Great experience!

Leigh-Ann was very helpful, responsive and knowledgeable about our safari options. Handled our safari booking, transfers and even hotel in Cape Town for us! We’re excited for our trip - Thank you :)

Apr 16, 2024

Sara is really friendly and helpful. She has planned everything according to our wishes and made all our wishes feasible.

Apr 12, 2024

Anja is very attentive and patient.

Apr 11, 2024

Shann is a great professional

Shann immediately demonstrated pleasant professionalism, competence, experience and patience. She advised and accompanied me in organizing the trip. She listened to all my needs and the suggestions were very fruitful for me. he was very kind and always available even during the holidays. thank you Shann

It was easy

It was easy, it all worked as planned, our expectations were exceeded. Anja was easy to communicate with through Whatsapp and always responded promptly to any questions.

Apr 10, 2024

She made it so easy to book

She made it so easy to book - Leigh-Ann was great to deal with . She made it so easy and worked with the dates I gave her . I appreciate it so much and when I book my next safari - I hope to have the same experience - which was awesome !!!!

Botswana Experience

Anja, our agent, was very kind and helpful all the time to organize the perfect trip. She did it quickly and efficiently. The amount of days we spent in every place was perfect to really enjoy the hotels and the different activities they proposed (in general the hotels are very nice but we don’t have the time to really experience the place but here we did). Also the selections of hotels was very very nice. Nice infrastructure, excellent service (very professional) and outstanding places to visit (all the parks were great). We had a wonderful experience with the company in Botswana.

Thank you Heleen for great service and…

Thank you Heleen for great service and always very helpful with all the changes we made. highly recommended

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Kenya Safari Tours & Holidays

• Destinations
• Kenya Safari Tours & Holidays

Go beyond the city limits and out into the African wilderness - safari style 

There are so many reasons to visit Kenya  ( delicious food , rich culture and friendly people are just a few) but embarking on a wildlife safari through this country’s breathtaking landscapes has to be at the top of the list. Whether you’re itching to head out on a game drive in search of animals you’ve never seen in the wild, can’t wait to take your African adventure off land and onto the water with a cruise along Lake Naivasha or you're eager to learn about the daily life of the Maasai warriors during a village visit, a safari in Kenya will steal your heart (and refuse to give it back).  

Our Kenya safaris

Gorillas & game parks, 16 days from 3029.

Encounter the wildlife of Kenya and Uganda on this adventure including a gorilla trek...

East Africa Highlights

10 days from 2112.

Travel through East Africa from Kenya to Tanzania, stopping at the Masai Mara, the...

Kenya Wildlife Safari

8 days from 1029.

Experience Kenyan wildlife on an eight day trip travelling from Nairobi to Lake...

East Africa Safari & Coast

13 days from 2659, road to zanzibar, 12 days from 1533.

Experience the beauty of the Ngorongoro and Serengeti, Usambara Mountains and Zanzibar...

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

The Masai Heartlands

15 days from 2576.

Uncover Kenya and Tanzania on a 2 week trip with Serengeti safaris, Ngorongoro, Nakuru,...

Serengeti Trail

8 days from 1354.

Roam the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Amboseli National Park to spot Africa's Big...

Gorillas, Game Parks & Beaches

27 days from 5190.

Go deep in East Africa on this epic trip, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Gorillas & East Africa Safari

18 days from 7110.

This 18-day tour hits Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania for tracking gorillas in...

Tanzania Family Safari

8 days from 1725.

Experience the people, culture and wildlife of Kenya and Tanzania on a small group...

Best of East Africa

20 days from 3024.

Step out onto the Serengeti and keep your eyes out for rhinos, lions, leopards and a...

Serengeti & Kilimanjaro

15 days from 4361.

Explore the wonders of Tanzania and Kenya, including a trek to the summit of Mt...

Premium Kenya & Tanzania

15 days from 6750.

Discover the best of Kenya and Tanzania on a Premium adventure through the Masai Mara,...

Nairobi to Stone Town

9 days from 1125.

Marvel at East Africa from Nairobi to Stone Town on this epic trip with safaris, hikes...

Kenya Family Safari

8 days from 2045.

Track your way across the plains of Kenya on this thrilling safari, covering Nairobi,...

Essential East Africa

10 days from 1510.

Hit the (dirt) road through Kenya and Tanzania. Safari in the Serengeti, Ngorongoro...

Africa Encompassed Northbound

64 days from 9280.

This epic journey with explores Southern Africa in detail including Botswana, Kenya,...

Johannesburg to Kenya

37 days from 5050.

Travel the waterways of Botswana, the beaches of Zanzibar and the savannahs of the...

Premium East Africa in Depth

21 days from 13284.

Search for Gorillas in Uganda, uncover the history of Rwanda, explore the wild plains...

Cape Town to Kenya

49 days from 5900.

Experience the ultimate African adventure on this epic trip including Kenya, Botswana,...

Premium Kenya

7 days from 2503.

Embark on a seven-day Premium journey through Kenya’s wild grasslands and vast plains...

Premium Uganda, Rwanda & Kenya

13 days from 8033.

Search for Gorillas in Uganda, uncover the history of Rwanda, and explore the wild...

Premium Kenya & Southern Africa Highlights

15 days from 9945.

Embark on a 15-day Premium Adventure through Kenya, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana...

Gorillas to Vic Falls

42 days from 6975.

Explore Kenya, Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe on this epic trip that included a...

Kenya safari highlights

Spot endangered black and white rhino in Lake Nakuru National Park

While the park’s stunning Lake Nakuru isn’t a sight to scoff at, it’s Africa’s endangered rhino population that avid safari-goers long to see. If you’re lucky, you might spot one or two white rhinos stopping to drink at the water’s edge after a morning spent walking the arid landscape. But if you’re really lucky, you might spot an elusive black rhino – an animal that’s been critically endangered since 1996.

Explore the Masai Mara Game Reserve in search of lions and cheetahs

The Masai Mara Game Reserve promises a whole heap of unforgettable wildlife sightings, from a herd of elephants wandering across the landscape to gazelles staying wary of a predator’s watchful gaze. But the chance to catch sight of a black-maned lion as it basks in the African sun or see the spots of a cheetah as it prowls through the brush makes all of those early wake-up calls and late nights worth it. 

Learn about the annual wildebeest migration across the Great Rift Valley

Your local leader’s not just there to keep you safe from the wild animals you see on your game drives but also to teach you about their mating rituals, eating patterns and migration habits. As you cross the Great Rift Valley, learn about the spectacular display of wildebeest migration that happens every year where one million wildebeest move towards greener pastures into the Masai Mara region. 

Cruise along Lake Naivasha for a chance to see thirsty hippos and birdlife

Take your wildlife adventure off land and onto water with a boat trip on Lake Naivasha, the highest lake in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. Cruise the lake’s surface in search of thirsty, thirsty hippos in need of rehydration at the water’s edge and get your camera out to take photos of the magnificent birdlife in this part of the world – think African fish eagles, saddle-billed storks and lesser flamingoes. 

Kenya safari tour reviews

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join a kenya safari.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises). However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Learn more about Intrepid's COVID-19 policy

When's the best time to go on a safari in Kenya?

Generally speaking, January, February and June to October are the best times to go on safari in Africa. This is the dry season, so animals tend to come out into more open spaces in search of water, making them easier to spot. However, you’ll be able to spot animals year-round and enjoy fewer crowds if you travel outside peak season.

Read more about the best time to go on safari .

Am I guaranteed to see animals?

We can’t guarantee you’ll spot the Big 5, but you’d have to be seriously unlucky to see no animals at all. On our safaris, you’ll explore some of the best game parks and national reserves in the world. These protected areas are filled with a huge variety of species and your expert driver and local leader will be on hand to point you in the right direction (literally).

What are the "Big Five"?

The “Big 5” used to refer to the five big game animals that were the most difficult to hunt. Now that most shooting is done on a camera, the Big 5 are the most exciting animals to spot while on safari: the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo.

What should I pack for a safari in Kenya?

Loose, light layers in neutral colours are the best attire for a safari (dark colours will get hot in the sun and can attract the Tsetse fly). You’ll also want a sun hat, some good walking shoes, a camera, sunscreen and bug spray. For more details, check out our  ultimate Africa packing guide . 

What type of food will be served on a safari in Kenya?

It depends on the trip style you've chosen. On our Basix trips, you’ll have a cook travelling with you who'll whip up a variety of local and Western-style dishes. Along your route, your cook will stop to purchase fresh, locally sourced food for your meals. You can expect a variety of things for breakfast like fruit, eggs, toast and cereal; lunch is often sandwiches and salads; and dinner is usually a hearty meal like pasta, curry or a BBQ.

On our Original and Comfort trips there'll be more meals at camps and lodges along the way. One thing's for sure: you definitely won't be going hungry on safari!

What are the toilets and showers like on safari?

Most of the permanent tented camps will have private bathrooms with flushing toilets and showers with warm water.

Many of the campsites we stay at have communal facilities with flushing toilets and showers with warm water. However, in some of the more remote areas, there may only be basic facilities (toilets and cold running water).

Will I be able to use my mobile phone on safari?

Some of our hotels and campsites will have Wi-Fi, however, internet and phone access may be limited in more remote areas. But you won’t think twice about emails and social media when you’re watching a pride of lions prowl through long grass or enjoying a drink around the campfire with your group.

Are Intrepid's Kenya safaris accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel accessible to everyone, so we will work with you to assess whether you will be able to complete an existing itinerary, or whether we will be able to make reasonable adjustments to meet your needs before you book. Please see our  accessible travel page  for more information. 

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Kenya Safari Tours, Package Holidays and Lodges

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

Magic of the Masai Mara

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

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Great Rift Valley

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

Amboseli and Tsavo

Mombasa Beach and Island Resorts

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

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Since 1999, we've been specializing in private tailor-made and customized holidays and Safaris in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania helping many design their dream African safari or holiday. We’ve guided literally thousands of visitors around our magical East Africa, which is why you’ll never be more than a click away from our friendly team of experts. We are committed towards personalized services to all our clients from the time of booking to during actual operations following everything to the little details that many over-look. Our safaris, tours, excursions, airport transfers, city hotels and beach holidays packages are affordable and can be tailored to suit your holiday budget...

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Popular Tour Packages

4 days Nairobi to Mombasa safari

If you’re short on time or just looking to extend an awesome Africa experience combined with beach holidays in Kenya

Face-off with Africa Big 5 at Masai Mara Safari

Embark on an exhilarating adventure through the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve with the diverse wildlife of Lake Nakuru and witness

3 Days Kenya Masai Mara Safari from Nairobi

Witness breathtaking wildlife and unforgettable moments on this 3 days Kenya Masai Mara safari from Nairobi.

7 Days Uncovering Great Kenya Wildlife Safari

There’s nothing better than a week of wildlife watching in Kenya. This tailor-made Kenya 7 days safari package starting Nairobi ending in Mombasa.

10 Days Kenya and Tanzania Safari

10 days Exploring the exquisite and never disappointing safaris in Kenya & Tanzania following the wildebeest migration routes which provides a unique and exciting experience

7 Days of Unlimited Bush Safari Across Kenya

This 7 days Kenya Highlights, include all the classic safari highlights as well as a few lesser-known encounters alongside. Tailoring a tour to coincide with the spectacular wildebeest migration

To discuss extra accommodation, or to join weekly group departures or customizing your trip, contact our customer service team.

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Kenya tourism directory

Kenya holidays: the best safari deals

Choose from a range of great Kenya holiday packages or request a personalised itinerary from one of our trusted travel partners. See you soon in Kenya!

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Booking your Kenyan holiday couldn’t be easier. Take a tour of Kenya’s amazing destinations and then book your trip direct with our most experienced and respected tour providers. Your Kenyan safari is just a few clicks away.

Explore Kenya’s favourite destinations

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Featured kenya holidays packages, simba safari – ks8a.

‘Simba’ means ‘lion’ in Swahili. A budget safari that delivers optimum variety in the minimum time without…

Masai Mara Safari – KS4

For those with limited time looking for a value-added safari that highlights Kenya’s most famous sights, this…

SkySafari Kenya Classic – SSKC

This exclusive flying safari showcases some of Kenya’s most famous and most diverse wilderness areas, while travelling…

Travel features

Sundowners on Pride Rock

Pride Rock is not easy to reach. But the road to triumph is always tough, especially in the world of Walt Disney where many a frog must be kissed to reveal a prince. In this case, we’re in the wilderness lands of Laikipia, Kenya’s heartland, following a tortuous path through thick khaki-coloured grass. It’s wide…

How Kenya is saving the African Wild Dog

African wild dogs, also known as painted wolves or Cape hunting dogs, have seen drastic population declines over recent decades. In this article from 2017, we looked at Kenya’s efforts to save the African wild dog from extinction, and discovered how these endangered animals are beginning to recover here. Painted wolves in the morning The…

Kristin Davis – Why I Love Kenya

American actress Kristin Davis is perhaps best-known for her role as Charlotte York Goldenblatt in the American TV series Sex and the City for which she received a 2004 Emmy Award nomination. She also starred in the films Sex and the City 2008 and 2010. A Global Ambassador for Oxfam, Kristin is also a ‘High…

Richard Branson – Why I Love Kenya

In this article, world-famous entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson – English business magnate, investor, philanthropist and founder of the Virgin Group – tells us why he loves Kenya. What were your first impressions of Kenya? I found Kenya to be a beautiful country – full of wonderful people, wildlife and landscapes. It’s always such a pleasure…

Friends with benefits: taking a ride with an oxpecker

It’s a common sight: a small bird with a bright red beak is taking a ride on a zebra. It might be perched on its neck or riding between its ears. The zebra doesn’t seem to mind and the bird seems to be having fun. With good reason. Bed and breakfast The bird, which is…

Born Free – an interview with Virginia McKenna

In this article, actress and activist Virginia McKenna OBE, who played Joy Adamson in the 1966 film, Born Free, tells us how her time spent in Kenya whilst filming Born Free changed her life. Virginia McKenna is a British stage and screen actress, author and wildlife campaigner, best known for such films as A Town…

Kenya’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites

There are some places on earth that are so unique and culturally significant that the nations of the world have come together to protect them for generations to come. These places are the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, listed and protected by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Proudly protecting seven of mankind’s…

Why are Flamingos pink?

Well, actually, they’re not. Strange but true: flamingos are born grey and their feathers only turn pink as they eat their preferred diet of the blue-green algae, Spirulina, which contains a natural pink dye called canthaxanthin. Consequently, flamingos kept in zoos turn from pink to grey, unless they have synthetic canthaxanthin added to their diets….

A Mother’s Love

Elephants are expressive creatures. They display joy, anger, grief, compassion and love. But a mother’s love for her calf is the strongest emotion of all. Elephant mothers carry their babies for almost two years before giving birth. Mother and child remain in constant touch, the calf never straying more than a trunk’s length from its…

The Maasai – the keepers of God’s cattle

It’s one of Kenya’s most iconic images. The Maasai warrior, spear in hand, scarlet shuka cloak thrown over his shoulder, one leg raised to rest on the other and his gaze turned to the far horizon. Certainly the most visually striking of the many colourful tribes of Kenya, the Nilo-Hamitic Maasai are a nomadic people…

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Kenya mesmerizes with its natural beauty and wildlife conservation efforts, offering legendary game viewing in the Masai Mara, cultural encounters with the Maasai, and vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro. Explore diverse ecosystems from Amboseli to the Laikipia Plateau, and witness the flamingo-laden lakes of the Rift Valley. Its coast boasts white sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs, complemented by warm hospitality. Embracing both tradition and preservation, Kenya remains a jewel of Africa's safari landscape.

LUXURY SAFARI BY &BEYOND 

If you would like to encounter luxury in the wild then you are in a for a treat. This itinerary discovers the scenic highlights of East Africa and has been designed to give you an experience of a lifetime.

KENYA SKYSAFARI

Embark on an eight-day luxury safari across Kenya, from the untouched wilderness of Meru National Park to the vast plains of the Masai Mara. Stay in exclusive lodges like Elsa's Kopje and Loisaba Tented Camp, experiencing thrilling wildlife encounters and cultural insights amidst Africa's breathtaking landscapes.

OUT OF AFRICA SAFARI

The Governors' Camp Collection features 6 luxury safari camps and lodges in Kenya, set amidst East Africa's finest wildlife and landscapes. Embark on a safari to Lake Naivasha and the Masai Mara, known for its vast array of big African animals and as the filming location for series like BBC Earth’s ‘Dynasties’ and Animal Planet’s ‘Big Cat Tales’. Experience the heart of wildlife viewing in unparalleled luxury.

CLASSIC KENYA

Surrender to the majestic beauty of your surroundings for an experience that will linger in your memory. Start your journey at the renowned Ol Pejeta Conservancy, famed for its Rhino conservation, then traverse the scenic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley. Your adventure reaches its pinnacle in the Masai Mara, the jewel of Kenya's wildlife destinations.

HEAVENLY HONEYMOON 

An exclusive, soulfilling safari and unforgettable experience of absolute luxury, relaxation and purity – from the remote, arid north and the Kenyan savannah to the sea.

SAFARIS & SANDCASTLES

Safari and Sandcastles. Kenya is packed with excitement that is great for family safari. From hand-feeding a giraffe and jumping with the Maasai to making sandcastles or playing golf at Vipingo on the Kenyan coast.

BEST OF KENYA & TANZANIA

Prepare for some of the best wildlife viewing in the world. Begin your adventure in the bustling capital of Kenya; then your off on safari, crossing over to Serengeti National Park. 

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Apodiformes Adventures

8-Day Bush and Beach Luxury Holiday Safari

4.8 /5 – 174 Reviews

$2,146 to $2,947 pp (USD)

Your request will be sent directly to the operator

If preferred, you can contact the operator directly

With so many inland wilderness areas and coastal destinations from which to craft your ideal Kenya dream holiday, you may be torn between the high-pace action of a bush safari and the romantic, exciting aquatic setting of the Indian Ocean beaches. We want to share all that Kenya offers for you and your family. We will pick you up from the airport upon your arrival. Airport pickup and drop-off are covered in the tour package.

Tour Features

Luxury tour.

This luxury tour uses lodges and resorts.

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 minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.

Suitable for solo travelers

Solo travelers can book this private tour.

Minimum age of 2 years

The minimum age for this tour is 2 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

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

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• If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly

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• This tour is offered by Apodiformes Adventures , 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.
• Rates include a fixed budget for flights during this tour. If flights cost more, your quote will reflect this.
• The exact order, contents and rates of this tour are subject to availability.
• If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.
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Customer Reviews

Authentic, dedicated, and professional Tour Operator knows how to do all the details

We'd highly recommend Apodiformes Adventures for your safari to Kenya! Our tour guide and driver, Loi, was dedicated to every detail of the experience for us. He ensured we had everything that we needed, communicated really well about the...

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Tailor-made Kenya Holidays

Nothing says safari like Kenya. Whether you’re exploring the famed Maasai Mara, bird-encrusted Rift Valley lakes or arid Samburu plains, it’s as if you’ve stepped into a wildlife documentary. Watch the drama of daily life unfold from your 4×4, providing a front-row seat for big cat hunts and herd migrations, your days dictated by the rhythms of the wild. You’ll rise with the sun to see its first rays warm the savannah from a hot air balloon, then watch it set in red-gold splendour beneath an acacia tree while sipping an icy G&T. Meanwhile, evenings in the Kenyan bush are made for sharing safari stories around the campfire, the sky lit by a tapestry of stars, or for exhilarating night drives where the pinpricks of nocturnal animal eyes pierce the darkness.

Many are drawn to Kenya for its romantic Out of Africa associations and show-stopping headliners: Big Five sightings, Kilimanjaro views and million-strong herds of wildebeest during the Great Migration. Then there’s the soft white sands and warm waters of Kenya’s palm-fringed coast that provide a perfect end to your adventure. As you’ll find out though, it’s the tiny details and the people who call these timeless landscapes home that will really sear Kenya into your soul. It’s the humble dung beetles you’ll spot on a walking safari with a Samburu guide, the scarlet-robed Maasai chief who’ll teach you about the Mara’s medicinal plants and meeting the lesser-known Pokot tribesmen as they shepherd cattle on the Laikipia plains. Then there’s the market sellers in Nairobi peddling colourful kanga fabrics and the fishermen who navigate white-sailed dhows over Indian Ocean waves.

Let our Kenya specialists bring your dream African safari to life, selecting the best wildlife experiences, luxury camps and cultural excursions the country has to offer. Be it tailor-made travel or a shared small group safari experience they’ll shape your ideas into a holiday that’s just right for you.

Our  Kenya Travel Guide is a good place to start planning with essential travel information, when to travel and how best to get around. Or get familiar with Kenya’s diverse landscapes with our interactive map and regional guides.

Kenya itinerary ideas

Governors' safari, cheetah safari, big five safari, kenya fly-in family safari, taste of kenya, kenya family safari and beach, governors' grand safari, kenya bush and beach, laikipia fly-in safari and lamu, luxury samburu and maasai mara fly-in safari, kenya and tanzania safari, kenya skysafari, amboseli, tsavo and beach, porini wilderness safari, rwanda's gorillas and kenya's maasai mara, plan your holiday with alfred&.

Your journey will start with one of our UK team – someone like Becky, who's travelled extensively in Kenya. They’ll shape your ideas into the trip of a lifetime. But they won't do it alone. They'll draw on the expertise of our contacts on the ground, connecting you to the people who'll make your holiday one you'll always remember - the safari rangers, local village chiefs and camp managers you'll be talking about for years to come. Start planning today, call us, email an enquiry or arrange a phone or video appointment for ideas and advice.

Becky Souissi

Alfred& Tailormade Expert

With over 20 years of experience, Becky’s passion for travel has taken her across the globe from the patterned promenades of Rio de Janeiro to the lakes of Vietnam. You’ll most likely find her in Africa where she travelled the continent trying and testing over 40 game drives. One of her favourite places in the world is the picturesque Maasai Mara for its early morning balloon rides and exceptional game viewing. It’s when among the local communities though where she feels most inspired.

Mohamed Iribo

Safari Guide at Elewana Loisaba Tented Camp

Mohamed Iribo is a passionate safari guide who has worked across Kenya, including in Samburu National Reserve, the Maasai Mara and Meru National Park. Mohamed grew up at Ol Pejeta Conservancy, where his father was a game ranger, so conservation is in his blood. Having worked with the Elewana Collection for eight years, the last four of those at Loisaba, he offers expert insight on animal behaviour and has an engaging sense of humour that guests love.

Janine Anjarwalla

Director of Sales and Marketing, Mara Engai Lodge

Janine Anjarwalla was born and raised in East Africa and has been working in the luxury hotel market for over a decade. She's passionate about promoting the region's culture, experiences and rich heritage to guests from all over the world and has proudly  worked with Mara Engai Lodge since its inception. Janine loves to explore on safari and appreciates a good steak.

Mohanjeet Brar

Managing Director, Porini Camps

Mohanjeet Brar grew up in the forests of the Kenyan highlands, so he has a close connection with the country’s wild landscapes and local people. He’s a keen naturalist and conservationist with a doctorate degree in Plant Science, as well as a certified safari guide.  Mohanjeet is now the Managing Director of Porini Safari Camps and is married with two kids who love going on safari.

Jonathan and Angela Scott

Big cat writers, photographers and filmmakers

Jonathan and Angela Scott are award-winning wildlife photographers, TV presenters, authors and conservationists. The couple live in Nairobi and have a permanent base at Governors’ Camp in the Maasai Mara, where they’ve been documenting the lives of the area’s lions, leopards and cheetahs for over 40 years. Jonathan and Angela famously filmed the BBC’s Big Cat Diaries in the Maasai Mara for 12 years and have continued this legacy with Big Cat Tales on Animal Planet.

Christine Macharia

Sales & Marketing Executive at GoVacation, Alfred&’s partner in Kenya

Christine Macharia was born in Laikipia, Kenya. After working in hospitality, Christine transitioned to the tourism industry in 2018 and currently works as a Sales and Marketing Executive at GoVacation. She loves showing off all the wonderful destinations East Africa has to offer and is passionate about offering outstanding tour experiences that touch the soul.

Freephone an expert 01306230131 Open at 10am

Alfred&  from the multi award winning Kuoni  

Discover Things to do in Kenya

Glide over the maasai mara on a sunrise balloon safari, go granny go meet nairobi’s entrepreneurial grandmas, sleep under the stars at loisaba star beds, visit endangered rothschild’s giraffes, hemingways watamu: the boutique beach hotel in a unesco reserve, visit the mugie anti-poaching unit, the maasai warrior bush walk at selenkay conservancy, you’re in safe hands.

Going above and beyond to help our customers is just one of the reasons why we’ve been awarded Recommended Provider status by the UK’s leading consumer organisation Which? based on their latest survey results.

Travel with us for total peace of mind. All our holidays are ATOL protected, we’re members of ABTA (the leading travel industry association) and you’ll have our full support throughout your travels.

Places to go in Kenya

• Amboseli and Chyulu Hills
• Great Rift Valley Lakes
• Maasai Mara
• Malindi and Watamu
• Mombasa and Diani Beach
• Mount Kenya

Kenya Travel guide

• When to Travel
• Getting Around
• Eating & Drinking

Time difference : GMT +3

Flight time : London + 8.5-9.5 hours

Currency : Kenyan shilling (Ksh)

Language : Swahili and English

Electricity : 220-240v

Telephone code : +254

Tipping : Has become customary in up-market hotels, many of which will have a tip box in reception. It’s normal to tip bellhops an additional Ksh100 and to leave a 10 percent tip for great service in tourist restaurants. When you’re on safari, your tour manager or a printed guide in your lodge will explain how to tip correctly. As a general rule, budget around Ksh2,000 per room, per day of your safari, to be paid at the end of the experience.

Etiquette:   Kenyans love small talk and long greetings complete with a friendly handshake but as a rule, women should only shake hands with men in formal settings. When chatting, be sure to ask after the person’s health and family before you settle into the main conversation. In Kenya, ultimate respect is given to elders in the community and hissing isn’t considered rude, it’s simply a way to attract someone’s attention. However, be careful not to point your finger at anyone and always ask before taking photos of locals.

Religions : Christianity is the main religion in Kenya, brought over by missionaries in the 19 th century. While around 85 percent of the population identify as Christian, around 11 percent are Muslim due to Arabic traders who settled in Kenya’s coastal ports as far back as the 8 th century. Alongside these key religions, many Kenyans have indigenous beliefs that are unique to their specific ethnic group.

Use of plastic: The law bans the use, manufacture, and importation of all single-use plastic bags. Travellers arriving in Kenya with duty-free plastic bags will be required to leave them at the airport. The government however confirms that reusable zip lock bags are permitted. Plastic bottled water may be provided in vehicles although to stay hydrated on the go, we recommend travelling with a personal, reusable bottle which you can refill at airports, hotels and lodges.

Visas: You can look up the latest advice on https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/kenya . Please be aware that this information can change at short notice.

Vaccinations: Health risks vary depending on the destination so it’s essential to check the specific vaccination and hygiene requirements for Kenya on the NHS Fit for Travel website .

Kenya is a year-round destination in terms of sunshine and wildlife sightings. However, it’s best to avoid the Long Rains, which stretch from April to May and can cause roads to become impassable. The most popular time to visit is during the Great Migration between July and September, when you can watch millions of herd animals, pursued by fierce predators, flood the Maasai Mara. Visit between December and March and you’ll enjoy hot, dry weather that draws animals to key watercourses for easier viewing.

Most Kenya trips begin and end in Nairobi, which is connected to the country’s national parks and coastline by a vast road network. The colonial railway system has received a funding boost in recent years and a high-speed Nairobi to Mombasa line will whisk you to the coast in just four and a half hours. Otherwise, getting around by bus or private car can be a long, arduous task so if you’re short on time, hop on a domestic flight. Carriers like Kenya Airways and AirKenya serve regional cities and some swanky lodges even have private airstrips.

No doubt you’ll spend plenty of time on safari, bumping across the plains in a jeep with a private driver and guide. When it comes to boats in Kenya, ferries will shuttle you across Lake Victoria and traditional dhows with white sails, originally brought over by traders, are great for exploring the coastline. As you travel through Kenya’s towns and cities, you’ll notice plenty of matatus, Nissan minivans that act as cheap shared taxis for locals, which are often painted in wacky designs. Matatus are usually crowded and are rarely used by tourists, although classic three-wheeled tuk tuks can be good for a quick ride.

Unless you’re dining in Nairobi’s international eateries or lavish safari lodges with five-star spreads, expect dining in Kenya to be a simple, carb-heavy affair. Most dishes revolve around potatoes, rice and the country’s signature doughy porridge, ugali, which is made from cassava flour or maize. Nyama choma, barbequed meat, is as close as it gets to a national dish and is usually accompanied by a healthy serving of ugali. When it comes to sweet treats, there’s plenty of tropical fruit and many hotels offer decadent afternoon teas, while locals love deep-fried mandazi cakes.

The most flavourful aspect of Kenya’s cuisine is its Indian fare, which was brought over by ancient Arabic traders who settled along the coast. Enjoy plenty of fragrant curries and biriyanis infused with coconut, tamarind and spices, served with fluffy pilau rice and chewy chapatis. Samosas are often eaten as quick, street-side snacks alongside mini kebabs and cassava chips. Along the coast and Lake Victoria region, you can also expect freshly-caught seafood on the menu. This is all washed down with the national drink, chai, and plenty of icy Tusker Beer.

Kenya is famed for its intricate wooden carvings, which usually come in the form of animal statues and kitchenware. The Makonde and Kamba artisans are some of the country’s most famous, with the latter also producing detailed woven baskets made from sisal. It’s best to buy straight from communities and local markets if you can. Most towns and villages will have a market or two heaving with carvings, as well as regalia aimed at tourists, such as colourful beads, drums, shields and even mock-traditional tribal spears.

You’ll be expected to haggle for your purchases. Start by knocking the price down by half and then negotiating up to a mutually-agreeable price, but always do so with a smile and after engaging in some all-important small talk. If you’re looking for typical African fabrics, brightly-printed swaths of Khanga, Kitenge and Kikoi cloth can be easily found, although much is imported. Team this with beaded sandals and some striking metal jewelry. Nairobi’s huge markets, including Gikomba and Kariokor, are a particular treasure-trove.

As well as observing the main Christian holidays, Kenya’s calendar is dotted with cultural and tribal festivities. The three-day Lake Turkana Cultural Festival in August is a favourite. Devised to bring together and celebrate the 14 diverse communities that live around the lake, this festival is bursting with colourful costumes, music and dance. Similarly, the UNESCO-listed Swahili coastal town Lamu hosts a cultural festival in November, complete with show sailing, carnivals and plenty of food.

While you’re travelling in Kenya, expect local businesses to close for national holidays, many of which commemorate Kenya’s historical moments. Madaraka Day on June 1 st marks the day Kenya shed its colonial British rule in 1963, while Jamhuri Day on December 12 th celebrates full independence. In some areas, especially along the coast, Ramadan and the Muslim festivals of Id al-Fitr and Maulidi may also affect your travel plans.

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The best Kenya tours & Safaris, hand-picked for you

• BEST ACCOMMDATIONS
•   3 Days 2 Nights Amboseli And Masaai Mara
• 5 Days Tsavo East, West, Amboseli & Saltlick
• 5 Days Tsavo East,West ,Voyager Ziwani and Amboseli Safari

6 Days Amboseli, lake Nakuru and Masai Mara

• 8 Days Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara and Lake Naivasha Safari
• Saltlick Safari Lodge
• Ziwani Safari Lodge
• Voi Safari Lodge
• 1 Day Wasini Island
• 1 Day Mombasa City
• 1 Day Shimba hills

5 days Amboseli, Tsavo West and Tsavo East Safari Saltlick

7 Days samburu , Aberdeare , lake Nakuru and Masai Mara safari

Welcome to Mackos Wanderlust Safaris

Welcome to Mackos Wanderlust Safaris, where we specialize in crafting extraordinary safari adventures across Kenya. Our passion lies in creating moments that linger in your memory long after the journey ends. At Mackos, we understand that every traveler seeks something unique from their safari experience. Whether it’s the thrill of encountering Africa’s iconic wildlife up close, the serenity of gazing upon vast savannas, or the cultural richness found in every corner of Kenya, we tailor our safaris to fulfill your dreams. Our commitment to sustainable tourism practices ensures that your journey not only leaves a positive impact on the environment but also supports local communities and wildlife conservation efforts. From the sweeping plains of the Maasai Mara to the hidden gems of Samburu, our expert guides unveil the wonders of Kenya with passion and expertise.

Explore Different Types of Safaris

Our holiday safari tour you can enjoy with us

AIR SAFARIS

MOMBASA ROAD  SAFARIS

UGANDA GRORILLA  SAFARIS

We’re Kenya  Tours &

For 10 years, we’ve been putting together awesome east africa safaris. We have wealth of experince and all our safaris are tailored to suite your holiday expectations. We’ll organize your accommodation, local transport, and a detailed itinerary. which will be memory back home.

2 Days Tsavo East  National  Kenya Safari

3 Days Tsavo East and West Kenya  Safari

3 DAYS  MASAI MARA AIR SAFARI Pick up at 7:00 am from your hotel then transfer to Wilson Airport, fly to world’s famous Masai Mara Game Reserve. On arrival start a game drive in a safari jeep en route to the lodge. Have a chance to view The Big Five; Buffalos, Elephants, Lions, Leopards and Rhinos.

5 Days Tsavo East,West ,Voyager Ziwani and Amboseli Safari 

8 Days Amboseli, lake Nakuru and Masai Mara Safaris

3 Days Tsavo West And Saltlick Kenya Holiday Safars

4 Days Tsavo East, West, Amboseli Saltlick

What our Clients Say

See what  some of our  Clients have to say about their holiday safaris with mackos wanderlust safaris Tours.

We visited Tsavo West and Tsavo East in 3 days trip (2 nights). That was our 3 best days in Kenya. Every next day we saw more and more animals. Special Thank to our guide. He knows where the animals are and can see them much earlier than we could. He is a professional!

Get inspired Find out when  and where to visit, and what to see, where to lodge

Excursions Find out Our exciting Day trips which you can enjoy after safari as refreshment.

Frrom our Blog

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Africa Safari Trip: A Comprehensive Guide To Crafting Unforgettable Memories

H ave you witnessed a lion’s roar echo across the savanna or watched a herd of elephants lumber by? An Africa safari trip is an otherworldly experience, but where do you even begin? This guide will equip you with all the essentials to plan your unforgettable adventure . Even though it can seem overwhelming at times, if you’re equipped with the right guidance and information, the procedure is rather easy.

To help you plan the perfect safari tour in Africa, in addition to answering the majority of your frequently asked questions, we’re put together some of the greatest tips and useful suggestions.

Choosing the Location of Your African Safari Trip

An Africa safari trip promises an enchanted world of discovery, where each expedition and place holds the potential to reveal a captivating tale. Every area of this enormous continent, from the lush deltas of the south to the brilliant savannahs of the east, offers a different fabric of fauna and culture. This is more than just a journey—it’s an exploration of the core of nature, where opportunity abounds at every turn.

African safaris are unique among travel experiences because of the authentic, natural spectacle of the wild. These excursions aim to fully immerse you in the world of animals, not just observe them. Planning your destination is among the most crucial aspects of preparation for any holiday, including this one. Africa is vast, so it’d be helpful to start with a “where to go on an Africa safari trip” Google search if you have no idea what to do.

To select the ideal safari destination, you must consider the things you wish to see. Are there any specific animals or cultural events you would like to see? Kenya and Tanzania from July to October are your best choices if you’ve always wanted to see the Great Wildebeest Migration. Visit either Botswana or South Africa to see a huge herd of African elephants throughout the year.

In East Africa and the majority of Southern African nations, the “Big Five” are also widely distributed. Travel to Uganda, Rwanda or the Congo for gorilla trekking; these countries are all in Central Africa. If you want to see chimpanzees on your Africa safari tour, Uganda is the ideal place to do it.

Top 5 Choice Destinations for Your Africa Safari Trip

Here are our top five African wildlife safari destinations to help you plan your trip.

Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve

At the Maasai Mara Reserves, the Big Five roam free, and boundless plains extend into the horizon on a wildlife safari. Traveling off-road and appreciating the lack of fences and lodging at any of the Mara conservation areas allows you to experience the breathtaking sight of countless wildebeests roaring across the East African savanna around the Great Migration.

From open safari vehicles, watch as lions hunt their prey with unparalleled subtlety. Elephants socialize within their close-knit groups, and elegant giraffes peruse acacia trees with grace. A fascinating insight into the Maasai people’s dynamic local culture, which is entwined with the land, its profusion of wildlife, and the natural beauties of the wildness itself, is provided by Maasai Mara.

Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park

Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is home to a large environment that is brimming with life. See the boundless plains packed with antelopes, zebras, and wildebeests as they migrate in a never-ending dance of survival throughout your Africa safari trip. It’s what you anticipate seeing on game drives following your viewing of National Geographic or PBS programs. You might be amazed watching the big cats lounging in the shade following a good hunt, or you might experience the exhilaration of seeing a cheetah racing across the landscape in a flurry of speed.

There are other methods to observe wildlife, such as taking a hot-air balloon flight across the savanna for breath-inspiring, all-encompassing views of this iconic African terrain. Seasonality is essential when thinking about visiting the Serengeti; never schedule an unplanned online vacation.

Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park

You can feel the African wilderness in Zambia, not just see it. In contrast to safaris that are limited to metal enclosures, South Luangwa encourages you to stroll among the animals rather than drive by them. Imagine your heart racing as you make your way through verdant riverine forests full of leopards hiding in their disguises, only to be astounded by vast herds of buffalo crossing wide-open savannas.

As you approach elephants bathing, listen to the Luangwa River’s rushing waters, which will lead you to the echoes of night safaris. You can unwind in the unexpected comfort of fly tents or treehouse retreats when the stars adorn the sky.

South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park

You can journey across acacia woodlands and tour places with sun-filled savannas along the rushing waters of the Sabi River in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park. Hear the echoes of prehistoric existence and see the exhilarating dance of adventures amidst the rare species. Renowned for its almost assured Big Five meetings, you get to experience the exhilarating thrill of seeing elephants trumpeting by a waterhole or lions relaxing in golden light—you don’t have to imagine it.

There is more to Kruger’s artistry than the Big Five. Higher populations of predators and a more varied array of species can be found in the superb private game reserves found in the Greater Kruger National Park. Wander along the river where crocodiles and hippos sunbathe before becoming lost in the rainbow of more than 500 different bird species.

Botswana’s Okavango Delta

Emerald islands emerge from the reflecting waters of the spreading waterways of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A mokoro is a native dugout canoe in which you may sail softly and intimately while spotting sleeping hippos afar and thirsty elephants sipping at the riverbanks .

Search among the trees for one of the greatest spots to see leopards or take in the aerial views of storks, eagles, and pelicans.

In such a distant location, the Okavango Delta boasts one of the largest concentrations of upscale safari resorts in Southern Africa, providing you with exclusive access to convenience and uncrowded rivers for a singular embrace of unspoiled wildlife.

Tips For An Outstanding African Safari Adventure

The foundation of a great African safari is effective communication. It makes sure you get the best possible experience out of your trip by bridging the gap between what you expect and the actual conditions of the environment. There are three communication techniques to help you receive the experience you want by interacting with an Africa safari trip guide or travel advisor .

Clearly state your demands and desires. Tell us about your ideal speed, cultural attractions, the wildlife you hope to see, and any unique interests you may have, such as birdwatching or photography. This enables your guide to customize your safari adventures based on your interests and budget. Mention any possible restrictions. Any physical restrictions or sensitivity should be disclosed to your guide to guarantee a fun and safe trip.

Pose inquiries. Never be afraid to ask questions about anything that piques your curiosity, be it local customs or the behavior of animals. Your guide holds a wealth of information that is just waiting to be discovered.

African safaris are an ode to the diversity and grandeur of nature. Every excursion offers a chance for a profound and intimate connection with nature. However, in a world full of breathtaking locations, the real art of travel is in how you take in each one. Each destination has a spirit of its own, and you can make transforming vacation experiences with the correct itinerary in addition to ones that are simply memorable.

Whether you’re traveling to the wild African savannahs or the charming countryside of Tuscany, creating a one-of-a-kind, dreamlike trip requires careful planning and vital information. It all comes down to creating a seamless, stress-free, and uniquely personalized tapestry of memories.

People Also Ask

How far should my Africa safari trip be scheduled? It’s advisable to make reservations eight to twelve months in advance of when you wish to go or depart for your selected African safari location. Enough time guarantees availability and your place at the top of the line for the most desirable experiences that Africa presents. It is always better to schedule your safari trip earlier than undergo a last-minute rush.

When is the ideal time to go on an Africa safari trip? The dry season, which runs from June to October, is the ideal time to go on a safari. Since it’s a warmer period of the year, there’s a greater chance that you’ll spot creatures looking for water. You can also witness the famous Masai Mara migration during these months.

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

I accidentally ended up on a Saga holiday – aged 30

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My mother and I were sitting in the open restaurant of a lodge in Amboseli National Park in southern Kenya .  

Kilimanjaro was hidden behind a low cloud. We were waiting to set off for another afternoon safari when suddenly, an adult elephant peered over the back fence. 

Pointing in delight, we sat and watched it in silence as it continued to nose around, waving its trunk. inquisitively.

It felt like a moment in a movie, which was pretty apt as I’d spent our whole dream holiday feeling like I’d stumbled into the starring role of a comedy film.  

At the age of 30, I found myself on a Saga holiday to Kenya and Tanzania.

It had always been my mother’s dream to travel to Africa. She wanted to see wild animals in their natural habitat since she watched Born Free and Daktari as a kid. But, for one reason or another, she’d never made it there. 

Then, in 2023, thanks to her retirement and me becoming my own boss, we were finally in a position to book it. 

For almost a year, Mum searched for the best value-for-money trips that visited all the places she had dreamed of seeing, before ultimately landing on Titan Travel’s ‘The Great Migration Tour’. 

The Titan Travel package included everything we wanted, including visits to Amboseli National Park, which is known for its elephants; Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and its elephant orphanage, where we’d see young elephants being bottle fed, and The Olduvai Gorge, which is referred to as the cradle of civilisation. 

The trip also included the Masai Mara and the Serengeti , where we could see the Big Five and enjoy African wildlife and nature. 

The accommodation was luxury camping and lodges so we’d have an authentic experience in comfort – perfect for Mum, who has some health concerns and couldn’t spend 10 days on a blow-up camping bed. 

With our excitement brewing, we wasted no time in paying our deposit – though, in hindsight, I wish I’d paid more attention to the Saga logo at the bottom of the payment form. 

Saga, for those that don’t know, offers exclusive holidays for those over-50 – although companions over 40 are welcome, too. 

I remember thinking it was strange that their logo would be associated with this tour, which seemed to be for everyone. But a quick Google search explained that, though Titan Travel had been bought out by Saga back in 2009, the two companies still operated separate tours, so I thought nothing more of it. 

Before I knew it, November 2023 arrived, and Mum and I were headed for Africa. 

When we arrived at Nairobi airport, our tour guide was waiting for us amidst the sea of tour operators and hotel pickups. He was easy to identify thanks to the Titan Travel sign he held – though somewhat confusingly, the other side of his sign said ‘Saga’. 

I reasoned that, as the logo had featured on all the paperwork, it was just another way for folks to identify this as their trip. 

But as our group of 16 slowly began to gather, I realised that, at 30 , I was the only person under 60 on the trip. 

Some people explained that they’d noticed the trip was available through both companies and weren’t too bothered that younger people may be included. 

But others critically eyed my nose ring and tattoos, as well as Mum’s wonderfully pink hair. 

Things didn’t exactly get better from there, either. 

At the hotel, the receptionist asked if I was part of the Saga group during check-in. When I reluctantly confirmed that I was, they must have presumed I was the tour guide as, giving a kindly smile to Mum, they gave me the keys and the paperwork. 

And I cringed later on that night as I made my way to the long, pre-assigned dinner table with a large Saga sign on it. 

I hadn’t really known who to expect on this Titan Travel trip when it came to my fellow travellers. I knew safaris were often associated with ‘retirement holidays’ – and I knew it wasn’t going to be full of twenty-somethings partying all night – but I thought we might be a little more mixed, age-wise.  

That first night, I felt like I was at a job interview , rather than making small talk on holiday.

I was quizzed about how I could afford the holiday, why I was travelling with my mother, and why I had chosen not to marry and have children .

I could tell many in our group immediately were wary of me, and I had to prove to them I wasn’t a petulant teenager, or the drinking-and-dancing stereotype often depicted in Ibiza weekender horror stories. 

I could see the shock on their faces when they found out I read classic literature, was well-travelled and listened to music from the 60s. 

Of course, the main question was whether I knew I would be on a Saga holiday with an older demographic. ‘Definitely not!’ I assured them. 

However, everyone on the trip had to overcome their judgements of the others to get along, and the more I spoke directly to people, the more they warmed to me as a fellow traveller and I saw their fun, jovial sides coming through.  

Once home, my friends asked me how my holiday had been. ‘Well, it turns out that turning 30 has some unexpected side effects,’ I laughed. ‘You can even go on a Saga holiday.’ 

But in all seriousness, I messaged Titan Travel, expressing my disappointment at the lack of warning about the trips. I’d already combed through both companies’ pages, and nowhere on the marketing material did it indicate that the two tours would be combined. 

I’d also spoken to our tour guide before we left, who confirmed we were not the first travellers to find themselves accidentally on a Saga tour. On the tour before us, a couple had been similarly grouped with people decades older than them. 

Titan Travel did respond, saying that ‘although Saga customers are now travelling with those who have booked with us, the tour provided by both brands is highly complementary, and there should be minimal impact on the level of service provided’.

It felt pretty dismissive to me. While I didn’t want any compensation, they didn’t seem to want to acknowledge that they hadn’t been totally upfront in their marketing. It just leaves other people open to taking a trip that is wrong for them. 

Granted, accidentally ending up on a Saga tour didn’t affect my enjoyment of the trip. 

I’ll never forget seeing wildlife in their natural habitat and the thrill of seeing my mother finally live out her dream. 

It was incredible to look out of our hotel room’s bathroom window and see a zebra grazing. Nothing will spoil that. 

Yet, we could have avoided a few awkward dinners, and it would have allowed Mum and I to relax and enjoy every moment from the off, if we’d been made aware. 

Still, at least I’ve learnt that you are never too old to go on an adventure. 

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A Saga spokesperson said: ‘It’s lovely to hear the customer thoroughly enjoyed her holiday. Our tours are designed and operated by Titan, and we do our best to communicate that to all customers as many book through other companies. Our commitment is to inclusivity and transparency for all those who travel with us. We welcome customers from all high street retailers as well as through Saga, our sister company, and have no age restrictions for adults.’

Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing [email protected] . 

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