Kenya Safari Holidays

Why choose a Kenya Safari?

A safari holiday is possible in many areas of Africa, so why should you choose to go game-viewing on safari in Kenya? Well a safari in Kenya is perfect for the first-timer, and can offer real value-for-money compared to some other safari hotspots. Kenya is also home to a multitude of National Parks and Game Reserves, offering a variety of terrains, landscape and experiences. The country’s safari regions are connected by a superb flight network allowing the traveller easy access to all corners of the country, with even the businessman able to easily go on safari in the Nairobi National Park, which is just 60 minutes drive from downtown Nairobi.

The game-viewing opportunities in Kenya are also unrivalled - in addition to being home to a huge variety of animals and bird species, the country was the first to introduce the concept of the Big Five, a collective group of animals consisting of elephant, lion, rhinoceros, buffalo and leopard, so named as they were considered the most difficult animals to hunt on foot by big-game hunters.

Best safari parks in Kenya

Kenya is a land of explorers, farmers and over 70 indigenous tribal groups, and it houses some of the most magnificent National Parks and Game Reserves on the continent.

Masai Mara

Located in the country’s south-west, bordering Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, the Masai Mara is a world-famous game reserve famed for fantastic sightings of its big cats and for being a haven for large numbers of animals and a quite staggering variety of species including Grant’s and Thomson’s gazelles, topi, eland, impala, buffalo, zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, elephants, and black rhinos. This is your chance on a Kenya safari holiday to see prides of lions and cheetahs hunting on the open plains and leopards stalking in the forests, as Masai Mara safaris are known to consistently deliver fantastic sightings of these big cats.

The Masai Mara is also famed for being a stage for one of the planet’s greatest wildlife spectacles; the annual wildebeest migration. Every year between July and October, vast herds of migrating wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebra and gazelles, arrive from the Serengeti to feed on the Masai Mara’s grass plains. The exact timings of this natural phenomenon are dependent on rainfall and grass growth, but one thing is for sure – if your Kenya safari in the Masai Mara coincides with the migration you will have a truly spectacular safari with huge numbers of animals grazing on the plains, and plenty of predator action. The very fortunate may also witness the herds braving a crossing of the Mara River, where crocodiles wait patiently for their prey.

Amboseli National Park

In the south of Kenya, Amboseli is famous for its views of the snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro, just over the border in Tanzania, and for its elephant herds, a combination of the two making for great photo opportunities. The park is a mix of swamps, woodland and areas of open plains and as well as elephants is home to hippos, buffaloes, giraffes, wildebeests and zebras. Birdwatchers will not be disappointed either, amongst the numerous species being kingfishers, herons, pygmy falcons and secretary birds stalking through the grass.

Tsavo East & West

The largest reserve in Kenya, Tsavo East National Park is renowned for its elephant herds, and predominantly flat, open plains which contrast to neighbouring Tsavo West National Park, which is characterised by woodland, volcanic hills and lava flows. A major attraction here is the Mzima Springs where a nature trail takes you to an underwater viewing chamber famed for its hippo population. Like Tsavo East, elephants are found in large numbers as well as lions, giraffes, buffaloes and various antelope species.

Great Rift Valley & Lakes

The Great Rift Valley runs down western Kenya from north to south creating dramatic escarpments and both freshwater and soda lakes. Loldia House is located on the shore of Lake Naivasha, which has abundant birdlife including waterfowl, kingfishers and fish eagles with the chance to see plains game and hippos by the lakeshore, whilst neighbouring Lake Nakuru is an important sanctuary for white rhinos and flamingos. Further north Lake Baringo has superb birdwatching including herons, pelicans and spoonbills.

Laikipia Plateau

Found in central Kenya between Mount Kenya and the Great Rift Valley, the vast Laikipia region is largely a high altitude plateau with open plains, undulating hills, woodland and scrubby bush. Traditionally the land was used as cattle ranches and while ranching still continues much of Laikipia’s land is now devoted to wildlife and conservation, often in partnership with local communities. The game viewing here can be exceptional and Laikipia is home to various rare and endangered species including Grevy’s zebras, reticulated giraffes and wild dogs. A number of the conservancies serve as vital sanctuaries for both black and white rhino making this region the best place in East Africa to see these threatened species. Without the constraints of National Park rules Laikipia has a wide range of safari activities available, including walking safaris, camping out in the bush, camel riding, horse riding, river swimming and even scenic flights by bi-plane.

Meru National Park

To the east of Samburu, Meru National Park is famous as the place where the lioness Elsa of Born Free fame was released. A contrast to Samburu, the park is criss-crossed by rivers with lush grasses, doum palms and dense forests of fig and mahogany trees. There are very few camps here, the pick of them being the hilltop Elsa’s Kopje, so visitors can explore the park with relative exclusivity. In addition to prolific birdlife, animals found in Meru include the northern specialities seen in Samburu as well as elephants, large herds of buffalo and, in a specially protected part of the reserve, rhinos are thriving.

Samburu National Reserve

To the north of Mount Kenya and Laikipia lies Samburu, an arid land of red soil, isolated hills and the muddy, palm fringed waters of the Ewaso Nyiro River. With its contrasting scenery and different species such as reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich and Grevy’s zebra, Samburu is the perfect place to combine with a southern safari park such as the Masai Mara. The area is most well-known for its elephants that are the subject of a number of research studies and lion, leopard, buffalo and cheetah can also be seen. As well as the Samburu National Reserve adjacent reserves include Shaba, home to Joy’s Camp, and the Kalama conservancy, where guests of Saruni Samburu can enjoy an exclusive safari away from other camps in the company of local Samburu guides.

Nairobi National Park

Bordering the city, Nairobi National Park is a wildlife haven with an urban backdrop, home to a wide variety of animal life including lions, cheetahs, rhinos and hippos. Just inside the park you will find the Daphne Sheldrick’s Elephant Orphanage which is open every morning for visitors to see the baby elephants that have been orphaned and are cared for by the dedicated team of handlers before their relocation to Tsavo East National Park. Another popular attraction is the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife’s Giraffe Centre, an educational centre for the Rothschild’s giraffe where visitors can feed this rare species. Next door is one of the most sought-after hotels in the whole of Africa, the unique Giraffe Manor, where you may find yourself sharing breakfast with the giraffes that wander the hotel’s wooded grounds.

Kenya safari itineraries and duration

Where to go and for how long are key questions when planning a Kenya safari. Do you just want to dip your toes in the safari waters with a short stay in the Masai Mara, or are you keen for a longer stay on safari, combining the Masai Mara with Samburu & Laikipia? Or perhaps you want to combine your safari with some down time on the golden beaches of the Kenyan coast - in Mombasa, Malindi or Lamu?

The minimum recommended safari stay would be three nights, which will allow you to get fully immersed in the ways of the African bush, but there really is no upper limit. Holidays to Kenya offer an unmatched mix of wildlife, scenery, culture and coastline, and because Africa Travel are able to tailor-make any itinerary for Kenya, you can stay where you like, for however long you like.

Accommodation options: From lodges to star beds

Kenya is blessed with an unrivalled range of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. The options include traditional lodges, which are most similar to hotels in that the fixtures and fittings are fairly fixed, and mod-cons such as air-conditioning, electricity, TVs and WiFi are standard, luxury tented camps, some of which boast copper bathtubs, chandeliers, Persian rugs & wine cellars, and tented fly-camps, which can easily be packed up and moved to follow the animal action. Then there is the more basic tented accommodation, more reminiscent of school boy camping, treehouse accommodation, where guests sleep amidst the bows of an ancient tree, or for something truly memorable, a sleep-out platform, where the beds are wheeled out under the night sky for the lucky few to spend a night under the stars. Whichever lodge, camp, accommodation or hotel you choose, and whatever your budget - be it luxury, mid-range or value, you can be guaranteed a great location, easy access to some of Africa’s finest wildlife, and a lifetime of safari memories.

Best time to visit Kenya for a safari (Migration season

To maximise the game-viewing on your Kenya safari, head to the country between July and October. This is the dry season when the weather will be perfect, the vegetation low, (which equals prime wildlife visibility), and the wildlife will be on show, particularly in the Masai Mara when the Great Migration will be in full swing. High prices and big crowds will be in evidence though during this time, so consider also visiting Kenya in January or February, which will be warmer and less crowded. The secondary rains come in November, but afterwards the lush scenery is home to excellent birding, and the birth of numerous young animals. The cheapest season is April and May, when the main rains arrive, bringing daily downpours, lower prices and fewer visitors, although some safari lodges close during this period and accessibility can be an issue.

Private safaris with local experts

If there is one area where Kenya excels, it is in the quality of their safari guides, and those choosing to book a private safari with their own guide will be in for a real treat.

Having your very own local expert and dedicated guide, who knows the terrain, eco-system, customs and wildlife can make such a difference to a safari experience.

They will know where to look and when, and will customise a guests’ safari itinerary to maximise their game-viewing opportunities.

Having a trusted local tour operator and contacts with the very best safari guides is so important, and Africa Travel are fortunate in contracting with some of Africa’s finest private guides. We regularly review our local partners, and only work with those we know and trust to deliver world-class safari experiences.

Kenya safari prices & what to expect

Beyond unforgettable wildlife encounters, expert safari guides and astonishing vistas, just what can you expect when taking a Kenyan safari?

In the majority of safari properties, regardless of whether your stay is luxury, mid-range or budget, you will be booked on a full board basis, which means that you will be served breakfast, lunch and dinner. Also included will be twice-daily game drives, which will allow you to enjoy an early-morning safari, normally heading off in the early hours before breakfast, and then a late-afternoon safari as the sun slowly disappears. The middle part of the day can be filled in many ways – perhaps on an escorted bush walk if they are offered, or with a massage in the safari camp’s spa, relaxing by the lodge’s swimming pool with a good book, or simply catching up on the sleep lost by your early start. Pre-dinner can mean sundowner drinks and chats around the campsite, with a night safari after dinner often completing a memorable day in the bush.

If you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure on your Kenya safari, consider joining a walking safari through the Laikipia region in central Kenya. Your tents and equipment will be carried for you by camels while you take in stunning landscapes, wildlife, birdlife and local culture.

How much you spend is dependent upon many factors – what time of year are you travelling, how long do you want to be on safari for, which parks would you like to visit, how luxurious do you like things to be, would you prefer to have your own guide or vehicle? However much you spend though, nothing beats a Kenya safari.

Plan your Kenya Safari: Expert advice

To plan and book your Kenya safari, contact the experts at Africa Travel. With almost 40 years’ experience in creating tailor-made safaris and holidays to Africa, there is no one more qualified to organise an unforgettable trip to Africa than Africa Travel. We are able to advise on the finest wildlife destinations in Kenya to visit and the best time of year to travel, and we have the widest range of safari accommodation to suit your needs. All of our staff have travelled extensively and you can trust that our personal recommendations will create an itinerary tailor-made specifically for you and deliver the Kenya safari that you have always dreamed of. To book speak to one of our experts on +44 (0) 20 7843 3500 or email info@africatravel.co.uk

FAQ

Is Kenya good for safari?

Yes, Kenya is considered the original home of the safari. It offers unrivalled wildlife viewing, including the Big Five, and diverse landscapes from the Masai Mara plains to the Indian Ocean coast.

What is the best safari in Kenya?

The Masai Mara is widely considered the best safari park in Kenya, especially for first-time visitors. It offers the highest density of big cats and hosts the Great Migration from July to October. However, for large elephant herds and views of Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is the top choice. But whatever you choose, the resulting Kenya safari will be unforgettable

How many days do you need for a Kenya safari?

The recommended minimum stay for a Kenya safari is 3 days, though longer durations allow for a more comprehensive experience.

Is Masai Mara better than Amboseli?

It all depends on what you would like to see. The Masai Mara is world-famous for big cats and the Migration, but the elephant & bird populations in Amboseli take some beating

What animals will I see on a Kenya safari?

You can expect to see a very wide range of animals – from the Big Five (elephant, lion, rhinoceros, buffalo and leopard), and well-known animals such as elephants, rhinos & giraffes, and lesser-known oryx, ostrich & wild dog. A Kenya safari offers everything from A-Z, in fact from aardvarks to zebras.

When is the best time to go on safari in Kenya?

Kenya can be visited year-round, with the exception of during April & May when the main rains arrive

Is a private safari in Kenya worth it?

Absolutely! You dictate your schedule - go when and where you want, and you will have the undivided attention of an expert safari guide.

How much does a Kenya safari cost?

A safari in Kenya can cost anything from £200-300 per person per night, right up-to ten times this amount – it all really depends what style and level of comfort you would like your safari to be.

Can you combine safari and beach in Kenya?

Of course – where better to finish a Kenyan safari holiday than with relaxation on the Indian Ocean coast. The Kenyan coast however is not just about palm-fringed beaches - there is also a rich Swahili culture along the coast that developed following the arrival of the Arabs. Important sites of Swahili history and culture include Lamu Town, which has been designated a World Heritage Site, Mombasa’s Old Town, and the 15th-century Gedi ruins south of Malindi. Most visitors however come to the coast to relax on the fine sandy beaches and to enjoy the range of activities - including snorkelling and diving, kite surfing, boat trips and big game fishing.

Africa Travel can tailor-make any itinerary within Kenya, so you can easily combine the Masai Mara with Mombasa, Laikipia with Lamu, or Meru with Malindi.

Is Kenya safe for safari travel?

Yes – Kenya is a very safe country to visit, but like everywhere, exercise common sense when in city areas.

What makes a Kenya safari truly exceptional?

There are few types of holiday which can match a safari in Kenya. Nothing will beat rising early, enjoying a pre-dawn tea or coffee, and then heading out across the vast African plains on an early-morning game drive in the company of a local guide, whose expert knowledge will be essential in ensuring that you have the best safari experience possible. After returning to the safari lodge or camp for a hearty brunch, the morning may then bring an escorted bush walk, allowing you to get up close to some astonishing creatures, or some simple R&R downtime before you set off again on an afternoon game drive. This will invariably conclude with a classic G&T sundowner, enjoyed whilst the sun sets on another day’s superb safari, before dinner and campfire chat round things off.

Africa Travel’s staff have all visited Kenya extensively and are able to recommend and create tailor-made safaris based on their own experiences.

We also have a host of insider tips which will make your Kenya safari even more remarkable – for example travel to the Masai Mara between mid-August and October for the Migration, book a private safari vehicle & guide for the best game-viewing experiences, take some USD dollars cash for tips & souvenirs, book at least 12 months in advance if you want to stay at the famous Giraffe Manor, and focus on the game park rather than the property.