Explore Kenya
Safari is an integral part of Tanzania’s essence, manifesting itself in almost every corner of the country. As East Africa’s second-largest nation, Tanzania has embraced this way of life for decades. Its exceptional wildlife and diverse landscapes make it a destination unmatched by many others in Africa. Prepare to be enthralled by the iconic savannahs of Serengeti, Tarangire, and Ngorongoro Crater, where encounters with magnificent creatures await. But Tanzania offers much more than that. Venture to the enchanting beaches and coral reefs of Zanzibar, and you’ll find yourself immersed in one awe-inspiring experience after another. And if you’re seeking hidden treasures off the beaten path, don’t miss the chance to embark on chimpanzee trekking adventures in the pristine rainforests of Mahale and Rubondo. Alternatively, opt for a crowd-free game viewing experience amidst the untamed and captivating landscapes of Nyerere and Ruaha. Whether you’re captivated by year-round game viewing opportunities, enticed by the Wildebeest Migration, or longing for a tropical beach finale, Tanzania promises a truly extraordinary journey.
Kenya offers a diverse geography and variable climate, making it a year-round destination for safaris and beach holidays. The prime time for Kenya safaris is from January to the end of March when the weather is mild, dry, and game viewing is excellent. However, visiting during the rainy seasons from mid-March to June and October to December can be rewarding, as it offers fewer crowds and discounted rates on accommodations and tours.
For witnessing the iconic Masai Mara wildebeest migration, the ideal time is from mid-August to late October when the herds return from Tanzania’s Serengeti. As for Kenya’s beach destinations, the weather is hot and humid year-round, with the possibility of rainfall at any time. It is advisable to avoid the coast during the peak of the rainy season from mid-March to late May when temperatures and rainfall are highest.
For more detailed information on the best time to visit Kenya, refer to our comprehensive climate guide or consult with one of our knowledgeable Africa Safari Experts.
Where To Go
As a part of the renowned Masai Mara-Serengeti ecosystem and renowned for the iconic wildebeest migration, Kenya’s flagship conservation area may not be the largest, but it provides the most awe-inspiring game viewing and diverse safari experiences. The Masai Mara is the ultimate destination for thrilling hot air balloon flights, exhilarating game drives, immersive cultural interactions, and guided nature walks in private conservancies. It’s no surprise that this extraordinary destination is hailed as one of the world’s greatest travel experiences.
Discover the untouched paradise of the Lamu Archipelago, where scuba diving, snorkeling on vibrant reefs, serene sunset dhow cruises, and enchanting dolphin encounters await. This unspoiled coastal gem seamlessly combines the elements of an idyllic beach getaway, making it an ideal addition to your Kenya safari or a truly remarkable honeymoon destination. Experience the epitome of luxury accommodation on Lamu Island and nearby Manda Island, completing your coastal escape with pure indulgence.
As a gateway to our Kenya safaris, a stopover in Nairobi is almost inevitable, with most international visitors flying into Jomo Kenyatta Airport. However, for regional and charter flights to safari destinations like the Masai Mara, Wilson Airport, located about 90 minutes away, is the preferred choice. Nairobi, the vibrant and bustling city between Johannesburg and Cairo, offers an authentic glimpse into everyday Africa. While downtown Nairobi is best avoided, the city’s leafy suburbs house notable attractions such as the Karen Blixen Museum, the Giraffe Centre, and the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. Amidst the striking backdrop of city skyscrapers, Nairobi National Park provides a remarkable haven for lions, rhinos, zebras, and various antelope species, offering a captivating introduction to East Africa’s wildlife.
While Kenya’s safari destinations often steal the spotlight, its stunning tropical coastline should not be overlooked. Mombasa offers popular beach resorts for families, but for a more exclusive and luxurious experience, inquire about Kenya’s secluded mainland beach lodges, where indulgence and exclusivity take center stage.
Just a stone’s throw away from Nairobi, Amboseli is the perfect destination in Kenya for capturing iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, located just across the border in Tanzania. Along with the breathtaking scenery, Amboseli offers excellent opportunities for big game viewing, particularly around its wetland areas. Keep in mind that the park can be busy due to its popularity, so anticipate sharing your wildlife sightings with other visitors.
Discover Kenya’s newest safari gem, nestled north of Nairobi on the edge of the Great Rift Valley. Laikipia is a captivating destination boasting vibrant private reserves, opulent family-friendly lodges, and awe-inspiring vistas perfect for honeymooners. Escape the crowds and indulge in an exclusive safari experience, immersing yourself in the diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes that Laikipia has to offer
Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Kenya’s Central Highlands. With Mount Kenya towering over the region, explore family-friendly Meru National Park, the picturesque Lewa Downs Conservancy, and the enchanting forests of Aberdares National Park for a relaxed and unforgettable Mount Kenya safari. UNESCO has also recognized the Mount Kenya-Lewa Wildlife Conservancy as an extension of Mount Kenya National Park, further preserving this remarkable World Heritage Site.
Nakuru, with its shallow soda lake, offers a prime opportunity to witness Kenya’s renowned flocks of flamingos. Alongside the stunning birdlife, you can also enjoy game viewing around the lake, spotting majestic rhinos and hippos. With over 400 bird species recorded here, it’s a paradise for avid bird watchers.
Located to the north of Kenya’s savannah, Shaba and Samburu National Reserves offer a captivating landscape where the savannah transitions into desert scrub and mountains. With its dramatic scenery, these reserves not only showcase the familiar African wildlife but also host unique species not commonly found in Kenya’s popular parks. This makes it a truly captivating and alluring destination worth exploring.
Kenya Travel Advice
While concerns about travel safety in Kenya are understandable due to past terrorist attacks, it’s important to note that these incidents have occurred far from the main tourism areas. Security measures have been significantly enhanced at airports and hotels in Nairobi, such as Jomo Kenyatta and Wilson airports. As travel experts, we prioritize the safety of our clients and have carefully crafted itineraries that include private drivers, trusted suppliers, and experienced lodge staff. We maintain constant communication with our clients and provide them with exclusive access to a 24/7 hotline staffed by senior personnel in case of any emergencies. Rest assured that we only recommend destinations that we would personally visit ourselves. Kenya is a wildlife-rich East African country, famous for the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Masai Mara, and we strive to ensure a seamless and secure travel experience for all our travelers.
Tipping is customary in Kenya as a gesture of appreciation for good service, although it is ultimately at your discretion. It’s worth noting that some larger hotels may already include a service charge in your bill. In city restaurants and bars where a service charge is not included, a 10% tip is customary. For more detailed tipping guidelines, feel free to consult with one of our Africa Safari Experts, who will gladly share their knowledge with you.
Kenya is known for its conservative society, particularly in areas influenced by Islam, and it places great importance on courtesy and manners. When photographing local people, it is important to always ask for permission, and be prepared for the possibility of being asked for a reward, especially in popular tourist destinations. However, overall, the people of Kenya are known for being easy-going, friendly, humorous, and helpful, which makes traveling and interacting with them a delightful experience.
Most visitors, including British, American, Canadian, European, Australian, and New Zealand passport holders, are required to have a visa when traveling to Kenya. However, citizens from some smaller Commonwealth countries are exempt from this requirement. Visas can be obtained upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and are valid for three months from the date of entry. Payment for visas can be made in the local currency, and it is important to have a passport that remains valid for at least six months beyond the initial travel date. If you plan to continue your journey to other East African countries such as Tanzania and Uganda, visas for these countries can generally be obtained in Nairobi for an approximate fee of US$50 each.
Kenya is home to a predominantly young population, with nearly 75% of Kenyans being under 30 years old. This diverse population is composed of various ethnic groups, including the renowned Maasai community. English and Swahili are the official languages in Kenya, and locals appreciate any efforts to speak Swahili. The majority of Kenyans identify themselves as Christians, while approximately 10% of the population practices Islam, with a significant Muslim presence along the Indian Ocean coast.
The official currency of Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling, although US Dollars are widely accepted, particularly for activities like hot-air balloon safaris. However, it is recommended to use the local currency for bar bills, souvenirs, and meals not included in your itinerary. Please note that older US Dollar bills printed before 2003 are not accepted in Kenya, so it is advisable to carry notes printed after 2006. Banking facilities and ATMs are available throughout major travel destinations, accepting major credit cards such as MasterCard, Visa, and American Express. Banking hours typically run from 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday, with shorter hours on the first and last Saturday of the month, usually from 9am to 11am for most banks.
Kenya experiences average summer temperatures ranging from 20°C / 68°F to 34°C / 93°F, and average winter temperatures ranging from 18°C / 64°F to 29°C / 84°F. The country has two rainy seasons: mid-March to June (known as the ‘long rains’) and October to December (known as the ‘short rains’).
When packing for your Kenya safari, it is recommended to bring light casual wear in neutral colors, avoiding white, black, and blue, along with a warm jacket for evening game drives. For more detailed packing advice, you can refer to our Africa Safari Guide travel advice section. In Kenya’s major cities, the dress code is conservative but not overly formal. Women can wear jeans and modest tops, while swimsuits are acceptable on the beach but should be covered up in public places.
Key airports in Kenya include:
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport: East Africa’s major flight hub near Nairobi, providing access to Masai Mara, Amboseli, Mombasa, Kenya’s beaches, and neighboring countries like Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and the Seychelles.
Wilson Airport: Located near Nairobi, it serves as the main domestic flight hub, connecting to Kenya’s fly-in safari destinations. Allow sufficient time for transfers between Jomo Kenyatta and Wilson airports.
Moi Mombasa International Airport: Situated near Mombasa, it serves as the gateway to Kenya’s coastal region.
Chartered flights offer convenient transportation, especially for remote areas, while road transfers and mini buses are commonly used for transfers between airports and major destinations. Safaris in popular areas like Masai Mara utilize mini buses, while open-sided 4X4 vehicles are preferred for safaris in remote locations and private conservancies.
Kenya’s history spans from prehistoric times to its independence from Britain in 1963, marking a significant milestone in its journey. Situated in a region where early humans originated about 150,000 years ago, Kenya’s rich past has been shaped by indigenous African ethnic groups, as well as European and Arabian traders, missionaries, and colonizers. Jomo Kenyatta, the first leader of independent Kenya, emphasized unity with his rallying cry of harambee, meaning “all pull together,” which has become the national motto. Presently, Kenya boasts the largest and most advanced economy in East Africa, with agriculture employing 75% of the workforce and the service industry, particularly tourism, contributing a significant portion to the country’s GDP.
Kenya, straddling the equator, showcases the magnificent Rift Valley with its lakes, hills, and mountains. This diverse landscape divides the coastal plains from Lake Victoria’s fertile shores and hosts Kenya’s renowned national parks and reserves. The central Rift Valley offers temperate grasslands abundant with wildlife, while the northern region boasts hot scrublands and remote parks. Along the Indian Ocean coast, you’ll find pristine sandy beaches, coral reefs, and tropical islands. Kenya is famous for the incredible wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara and Serengeti ecosystem, and its commitment to conservation has safeguarded the Big 5, predators, plains game, and a wealth of bird species. With accessible game viewing, Kenya is a treasure for wildlife enthusiasts.