Kenya Safari: The Ultimate Guide to Planning the Perfect Tour

Kenya is one of the best places in the world to catch a glimpse of the Big Five, the country’s sprawling parks and reserves laying claim to healthy numbers of your favourite species.

Not only is the wildlife viewing truly spectacular, but Kenya is one of the most accessible safari destinations in Africa, both in terms of pricing and getting there. This makes Kenya a fantastic choice for pretty much every safari-enthusiast!

Kenya houses over 40 national parks and reserves, and that number keeps growing year on year as more land is re-wilded. This can make choosing exactly where to go on safari pretty challenging. How do you know where to prioritise?

Planning a safari can be tough. When first-time visitors come to Kenya, they often severely underestimate the journey time between parks and can easily end up spending more time on-the-road than actually out on safari which ultimately doesn’t lead to the best safari experience.

I’m here to help! Having visited Kenya numerous times and been on countless game drives, I’ve amassed enough experience to confidently advise you on how to plan the best Kenya safari.

I’ve also turned to local experts as well as carried out ample research to ensure this article is comprehensive – so you can have the ultimate Kenya safari!

In this guide, I’m going to dive into everything I wish I’d known before booking my first Kenya safari. I’m going to discuss the best time of year to visit, how much a safari costs, how to book your safari as well as share tips and tricks that will make your safari truly memorable!

Kenya Safari Map

Below is a map of Kenya, including my favourite safari destinations in the region.

8 Reasons to Go on Safari in Kenya

Kenya is the birthplace of safari. The very word ‘safari’ means ‘journey’ in the country’s national language, Kiswahili. And centuries after the first safaris were conducted, Kenya remains one of the most popular places in the world where you can embark on this activity and received a whopping 2.4 million visitors in 2024. That number is estimated to grow.

Below we will dive into the key reasons on why Kenya is so popular.

1. The Great Migration

Kenya is perhaps most famous for hosting the great wildebeest migration between July and October each year.

It’s a spectacle that you’ll have no doubt seen on nature documentaries – thousands of wildebeests and zebras descending into the treacherous Mara River, battling against strong currents and snapping crocodiles on their quest to reach fresh grazing on the other side.

Whilst the majority of the great migration actually takes place in neighbouring Tanzania, the most sought-after and dramatic part of their journey is when the herds reach the Mara River which snakes between Northern Serengeti in Tanzania and Maasai Mara in Kenya, making the crossings possible to witness in both countries.

You can read my full guide to the great wildebeest migration in detail.

My Verdict on Self-Drive Safaris: 

My Verdict on Local Tour Operators

Option 3: Hotel-Provided Safaris

Some lodges and hotels offer their own safari packages. The lodges that tend to offer this service are high-end and so this booking option requires a larger budget than if you were to book with a local tour operator.

As you’ll often have to arrange your own travel between hotels, I’d also only really recommend this option if you are staying at each lodge for a prolonged period of time (at least 4 nights per lodge).

Hotel-provided safaris are best suited to those who wish to fly between lodges rather than journey by road.

My Verdict on Hotel Safaris:

Lodge-provided safaris can be a good option if you have a larger budget and would be prefer to stay in a limited number of locations for longer periods.

Private game drives cannot be guaranteed as many lodges only provide shared drives with other guests. At more exclusive and high-end camps, they can be requested but at a much higher price.

If you have a high budget and would like the ease of an agent booking everything for you, including your international flights, booking through an overseas travel agent may be a good choice.

The main drawback of this method is the cost. You’ll be paying up to 40% more for pretty much the same experience provided by a local tour operator.

International travel agents actually outsource the safari to local tour operators so, in my opinion, they’re not good value for money as you’re paying so much more for the exact same experience.

The large mark-up is necessary for the travel agent to stay profitable. You’re not only paying for the safari but for the company’s overheads, which are understandably higher than a local tour operator’s due to their location.

My Verdict on International Travel Agents:

I’ll be honest, I’m struggling to really see any advantages of booking with an international travel agent. It’s by far the most expensive way to book your safari and you can’t even guarantee that the agent will outsource your safari to a good tour operator to carry out the safari.

Booking international flights these days is extremely quick and easy. And, as not all agencies allow you to earn points with airlines, there are actually benefits to booking your flights yourself.

Protection schemes sound enticing but they really don’t protect you any more than comprehensive travel insurance combined with paying via credit cards can. Just make sure your travel insurance includes ‘supplier failure’.

From my personal experience, booking through a local tour operator gives you the best combination of value and experience.

Private vs Group Kenya Safaris

Deciding how to book your Kenya safari is just part of the booking process. You also need to decide if you’d rather embark on a private or group safari.

A private safari refers to a safari where it’s just your party on safari. A group safari is when you book to join an organised safari for a number of strangers.

The type of safari you choose will have a large impact on your overall safari experience.

Let’s delve into the pros and cons of each option.

Private Kenya Safaris

Private safaris are my favourite option and I truly believe they are the best option for most travellers, as the entire safari experience is custom-made to your individual needs. 

Group Shared Kenya Safaris

Group shared safaris can be a good option if you are a solo traveller, looking for the best deal and to make friends. They can also be ideal for those travelling on a tight budget.

How Much Does a Kenya Safari Cost?

The starting price for a private Kenya safari is typically $300 per person per day. This price assumes budget accommodation but allows you to visit Kenya’s flagship (and more expensive) parks, including the Maasai Mara.

This price includes all accommodation, meals, park fees, the cost to hire the vehicle and driver guide as well as fuel.

You can expect the safari cost to rise as you increase the level of comfort of your accommodation, with mid-range safaris starting at $400 per person per day.

Shared safaris come in a bit cheaper, starting at $220 per person per day. This price assumes basic camping accommodation.

Below you can view a chart of typical Kenya safari costs based on the luxury level.

For an in-depth cost breakdown, you can have a look at my up-to-date guide to Kenya safari costs.

Kenya Safari Costs Breakdown

The bulk of the price, around 60% of the cost of a private safari booked with a local tour operator is allocated to accommodation and park fees.

For example, a typical budget tented camp just outside the Maasai Mara costs $100 per person per night and park fees to enter the Maasai Mara in peak season are $200 + 18% tax per person per day. If you add this all up, we’re already at just over $336 per person for this one day on safari, not even considering the costs for your vehicle, driver guide and fuel.

Once you factor in all the costs involved in the safari, the local tour operator is left with just over 3% profit. This is why local tour operators are such good value.

You can see the complete breakdown in the chart below.

Factors Affecting Kenya Safari Costs

There are various factors that can affect your overall safari price, including the type of accommodation you stay at, how you book your safari and even the size of your group.

Let’s take a closer look at each of the key factors which will affect your safari cost below.

How you Book Your Safari

You can save up to 40% on your safari by booking with a local tour operator as opposed to an international travel agent.

Booking a self-drive safari will be marginally cheaper than with a local operator. And when I say savings are nominal, I really mean nominal. A reason that savings aren’t as much as you might expect is that tour operators are often able to book accommodation for a better price than you can due to their close relationship with camps and lodges.

In fact, a guest who recently booked their safari with one of my recommended local tour operators emailed me earlier this year saying they couldn’t believe the rate that the tour operator managed to secure them a lodge for, saying it was far cheaper than if they’d booked it themselves.

Below you can view a chart of typical budget safari costs based on the booking method.

My Preference: I always choose to book all my safaris through local tour operators. Even when I occasionally opt for fly-in safaris, I still rely on local tour operators for these bookings, as well as for game drives and other arrangements, as they handle everything, including airport transfers.

Accommodation Comfort Level

The level of accommodation that you opt for will have a significant effect on your overall safari cost.

A budget Kenya safari starts at $300 per person per day compared to $400 per person for mid-range accommodation and $600 per person for luxury accommodation.

Mid-range and luxury accommodations have guaranteed private ensuite bathrooms. Whilst private bathrooms are common with budget accommodation, they’re not always guaranteed.

The main difference with the three options is the room comfort, quality of amenities and levels of service.

Below I’ll show a visual comparison of the different accommodation levels.

Time of Year

Kenya safari costs can vary wildly throughout the year. If you come at the right time of year, you can snag lower prices on both park fees and accommodation costs.

But to make things a bit complicated, what the parks class as peak season vs what the lodges class as peak season is a little different. Don’t worry, I’ll break it down for you.

When it comes to park fees, January to the end of June is classed as low season. July to the end of December is classed as high season. It’s generally double the price to visit in high season compared to low season. For example, Maasai Mara’s park fees between January and the end of June is $100 per person per day, compared to $200 per person per day if you visit between July and the end of December.

Kenya’s seasons are a bit more nuanced that the above would lead you to believe. For example, January, February, October and December are actually all shoulder season whilst March, April, May and November are low season. Everything else is high season. Lodge and camp prices typically reflect these seasons and prices can vary as much as 40% with high-end lodges.

Mode of Transport Between Parks

There are two key ways to travel between parks: by road or by air.

The default option is to travel by road which is the most budget-friendly option as you’ve already paid for the vehicle for the entire day. However, driving isn’t always convenient, especially when journeying between parks which have a significant distance between them, such as Maasai Mara to Amboseli which is 10 hours. Many of the main highways in Kenya are single-carriageway and it’s easy to get stuck behind slow-moving lorries. The more rural roads may be quieter but are often untarred, bumpy and dusty.

In my opinion, it’s all part of the fun! Especially if you’ve never been to Kenya before (or East Africa for that matter), it can be mesmerising to sit and stare out the window, admiring a landscape that’s so different to back home. You can also stop whenever you fancy to take photos or explore a roadside stall and purchase food or souvenirs.

There are situations however where I do think it’s worth considering flying between locations. If you want to maximise your time on safari and cut-out any long drives, or if you just aren’t a fan of long drives, flying offers an easy and convenient alternative. I also think flying is very much worth it if your drive is estimated to take over 6 hours.

All of Kenya’s key parks and reserves house airstrips which makes it extremely convenient to fly from location to location. A flight typically takes around 1-2 hours.

The main drawback of flying is the cost. A flight costs around $300 per person.

Another drawback is the luggage limitation. Depending on which airline you fly with you typically have between 15kg – 20kg of baggage allowance, including 5kgs of hand luggage. You can only take soft-sided bags.

Group Size

The number of people travelling with you on safari can significantly influence individual safari costs.

Solo travellers can expect to pay up to 40% more for the safari as they don’t have anyone to share fixed costs like the vehicle and driver with. Lodges also add single supplement fees.

On the other hand, savings can be had if you are travelling as part of a large group. The most optimal number for your safari is 7 people as most vehicles can take 7 guests. The costs of the vehicle, driver and fuel can be split amongst all 7 guests.

My Preference: I personally like a maximum of 2 or 3 people, including myself in the back of the safari truck to allow me to move around freely for sightings on both sides of the truck, and to take photos.

How You Travel Within Parks and Reserves

There are two types of vehicles typically offered on a Kenya safari: a Toyota minivan or a Toyota Land Cruiser.

Both vehicles typically hold the same number of people (7) but vary in terms of comfort and quality. Seats in Land Cruisers are more plush and padded. You also have many more compartments to store your things. Land Cruiser windows are also larger, offering better wildlife viewing opportunities.

The most severe limitation of the minivans is that they are often 2-wheel-drive. This means that they cannot go everywhere. In contrast, Land Cruisers are built to go off-road and can navigate down roads which are off-limits to minivans, providing access to special wildlife sightings.

Land Cruisers are typically around $100 per day more expensive than minivans.

When it comes to Land Cruisers, there’s a range of specifications that you can choose from. Most companies offer either a standard Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof or a photography-ready Land Cruiser which has completely open sides. The Land Cruiser with open sides will be a bit more expensive.

My Preference: I always choose Land Cruisers for their comfort and reliability. As I’m a keen photographer I tend to opt for open-sided Land Cruisers where possible.

Best Time to Visit Kenya

Kenya is pretty much a year-round safari destination.

There are four distinct seasons that you can experience and each one offers different pros and cons.

My Preference: In my opinion you can’t go wrong with any time of year apart from mid-March to mid-May which is the long rainy season.

 Let’s look at the pros and cons associated with each season.

The Short Dry Season (December – February)

The short dry season is the perfect time to visitors who want to enjoy pleasant weather whilst beating the crowds of peak season and saving on peak season park increases.

This season classes as ‘shoulder season’ and so in terms of popularity, it ranks just behind peak season but still brings in more visitors than the low reason.

The weather is largely sunny and dry and wildlife sightings are abundant.

The Long Rainy Season (March – May)

The long rainy season is for travellers who don’t mind the challenges that come with heavy rainfall, including frequent downpours and less accessibility due to flooding, in order to enjoy the benefits of the lowest pricing and quietest parks.

The long rainy season is by far the most challenging time of year to visit as the heavy downpours can cause disruption to safaris. However, safaris are still very much possible and the wildlife is still present.

The Long Dry Season (June – September)

The long dry season is the best time if you wish to see the great wildebeest migration and the jaw-dropping Mara River crossing. This is by far the most popular time to visit Kenya and provides the driest and sunniest weather.

The parks are very busy at this time of year and as a result, things are priced accordingly, making it the most expensive time of year to visit Kenya.

The Short Rainy Season (October – November)

The short rainy season is a great time for those who want to escape the crowds but still enjoy mostly pleasant weather and an abundance of wildlife sightings.

This time of year classes as ‘shoulder season’ so it isn’t as quiet as the low season but still provides tranquil parks and pricing is more favourable than peak season.

There are still some chances to see the great migration in October.

How Long to Spend in Kenya

I strongly recommend spending at least 7-10 days on safari in Kenya as this allows you to visit Kenya’s very best parks and reserves without rushing.

If you have the time, a 2-week itinerary allows you to explore Kenya in much more depth, visiting some of my favourite hidden gems alongside the most popular parks.

For the ultimate Kenya safari, visiting all of my favourite locations at a pace that allows you to explore them in depth, a 3-week itinerary is ideal.

If you don’t have much time to spend in Kenya, it’s okay! You can still see the best of Kenya in a shorter period of time.

A 5-day itinerary will still allow you to visit Kenya’s flagship parks but just in a shorter period of time than a longer itinerary.

Finally, if you’re really short on time, a 3-day itinerary is possible. You will just need to have more of a regional focus or fly between parks to ensure you are able to enjoy the locations you visit.

My preference: I personally like to spend between 7 days and 3 weeks in Kenya depending on whether I’m focusing on of area of the country or covering all the key parks and reserves.

The Great Migration in Kenya

The great wildebeest migration is one of the most dramatic wildlife spectacles on earth, and between July and October each year, the great herds are visible in Kenya’s Maasai Mara.

The great wildebeest migration is the world’s second largest terrestrial mammal migration involving over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundred of thousands of zebras and gazelles.

They make an annual journey that covers 800 miles (1,000 km), looping in a clockwise direction through the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania before crossing the raging Mara River in the north of the park, into Kenya’s Maasai Mara.

During mid-July the first of the herds typically start crossing the Mara River and arriving into Kenya. The crossings then continue for a few months, with the last crossings taking place as the wildebeests journey back to Tanzania up until mid-October.

Between mid-July and mid-October is your only opportunity to see the great migration in Kenya.

If you wish to see the great migration but are planning your visit for another time of year, you may wish to combine your trip to Kenya with Tanzania for a combined Kenya and Tanzania itinerary that witnesses the great migration in Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.

What Are The Best National Parks and Wildlife Reserves In Kenya?

Home to over 40 wildlife parks and reserves, it can certainly be daunting to know exactly where to prioritise visiting, especially as each park has their own unique features.

Below we’re going to explore my favourite national parks and reserves and how you can visit them on your Kenya safari.

1. Maasai Mara National Reserve

Maasai Mara National Reserve and it’s surrounding conservancies is Kenya’s most famous and popular wildlife area. Home to healthy numbers of the Big Five and the stage of the great wildebeest migration, the Maasai Mara really has it all!

Read my ultimate guide to Maasai Mara National Reserve or, if you’re in a rush, I’ve included some quick facts below.

What Wildlife can you See in Maasai Mara National Reserve?

Maasai Mara National Reserve is a wildlife lover’s dreams. With high densities of big cats such as lions, as well as vast numbers of plains game, there will certainly be no shortage of sightings on your safari here.

Below I’ve listed the most popular animals and your likelihood of spotting them.

When is the Best time to Visit Maasai Mara National Reserve?

The time you visit can have an impact on what wildlife you see and overall experience. Whilst there’s no bad time to visit Serengeti, some months are more favourable than others.

My Experience in Maasai Mara National Reserve

You can watch a video of my personal experience going on safari in the Maasai Mara National Reserve.

You can also view my experience in safari in a Maasai Mara Conservancy (Mara North Conservancy) to help you identify the difference between a safari in the main reserve vs a conservancy.

2. Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park is a haven for bird-watchers, the great lake in the centre of the park attracting a plethora of feathery friends. The park is also a sanctuary for the critically endangered black and white rhinos and you stand a pretty good chance of spotting both here.

I’ve included some quick facts below.

What Wildlife can you See in Lake Nakuru National Park?

Lake Nakuru houses four of the Big Five, elephants being the only member that are absent. It’s one of the best places in Kenya to see both black and white rhinos.

Below I’ve listed the most popular animals and your likelihood of spotting them.

When is the Best time to Visit Lake Nakuru National Park?

The best time to visit Lake Nakuru is during the dry seasons as flamingos can be seen in higher numbers during these times.

My Experience in Lake Nakuru National Park

You can watch a video of my personal experience going on safari in Lake Nakuru National Park.

3. Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve is one of Kenya’s northernmost wildlife areas. As a result, the wildlife here is a little different and you can hope to encounter the Special Five (reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, beisa oryx, gerenuk, and Somali ostrich).

I’ve included some quick facts below.

What Wildlife can you See in Samburu National Reserve?

As well as the Special Five, Samburu houses healthy numbers of many of your favourite species, including elephants and lions.

Below I’ve listed the most popular animals and your likelihood of spotting them.

When is the Best time to Visit Samburu National Reserve?

Samburu is largely a year-round destination. The only time of year where wildlife viewing isn’t really optimal is the long rainy season of April and May.

4. Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a sanctuary for black and white rhinos. It also houses the world’s last remaining northern white rhinos.

I’ve included some quick facts below.

What Wildlife can you See in Ol Pejeta Conservancy?

Rhinos are the star attraction here. Both black and white rhinos can be found here in healthy numbers. Additionally, Ol Pejeta provides sanctuary to the world’s last two remaining northern white rhinos. But there’s much more to Ol Pejeta than rhinos – the entirety of the Big Five can be found here.

Below I’ve listed the most popular animals and your likelihood of spotting them.

When is the Best time to Visit Ol Pejeta Conservancy?

You can visit Ol Pejeta throughout the year and have good chances of seeing wildlife. The long rainy season which takes place in April and May is the worst time to visit due to the weather conditions.

5. Amboseli National Park

Home to some of the world’s last Big Tucker elephants and with superb views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is a very unique national park.

I’ve included some quick facts below.

What Wildlife can you See in Amboseli National Park?

Elephants are the main attraction in Amboseli National Park. Not only do you have a chance to see elephants with huge tusks, but the elephants appear in super-herds and it’s not unusual to see hundreds of them at once. As well as elephants, lions, buffalos and cheetahs are all here.

Below I’ve listed the most popular animals and your likelihood of spotting them.

When is the Best time to Visit Amboseli National Park?

The best times to visit Amboseli are in the dry season, when Mount Kilimanjaro is much more visible. In the wet seasons, Amboseli is also reduced as Lake Amboseli (a seasonal lake) fills up, meaning the park becomes much smaller and animals start to migrate out of it.

My Experience in Amboseli National Park

You can watch a video of my personal experience going on safari in Amboseli National Park.

6. Tsavo East & West National Parks

Tsavo National Park is the largest protected area of wilderness in Kenya. The national park is cut in two by the main highway and railway that link Nairobi to Mombassa. Tsavo feels incredibly remote and is home to all of the Big Five.

I’ve included some quick facts below.

What Wildlife can you See in Tsavo East & West National Parks?

Tsavo is a great place to the see the rare black rhino as well as Big Tusker elephants. It also houses healthy numbers of lions, leopards and cheetahs. There really is no shortage of wildlife here!

Below I’ve listed the most popular animals and your likelihood of spotting them.

When is the Best time to Visit Tsavo East & West National Parks?

Tsavo is popular for sighting its ‘red elephants’. This phenomenon can only be seen in the dry seasons, when the elephants bathe themselves in the red dust to protect them from the sun. Additionally, as Tsavo is pretty dense as it is, you’ll ideally want to visit in the dry seasons where visibility is best.

7. Laikipia County

Laikipia County is an area in central Kenya that’s comprised of several private conservancies. These conservancies are rich in wildlife and offer unique opportunities to embark on walking and horse riding safaris.

I’ve included some quick facts below.

What Wildlife can you See in Laikipia County?

Laikipia County is the best place in Kenya to see the critically endangered African wild dog. It’s also the only known place in Africa where you can see a black leopard. In addition to this, many of the conservancies here are rhino sanctuaries and provide great opportunities to view both black and white rhinos.

Below I’ve listed the most popular animals and your likelihood of spotting them.

When is the Best time to Visit Laikipia County?

Laikipia can be visited throughout the year. The weather is worst in the long rainy season months of April and May. However, all times of year provide great wildlife viewing opportunities.

How Does Kenya Compare to Other Africa Safari Destinations?

If you’re still undecided about exactly which African safari destination to visit, I’ve compared Kenya to some of the most popular safari locations below.

Kenya Vs Tanzania: Which is Best?

Kenya and Tanzania have a lot of similarities. The two countries are right next door to one another and experience similar temperatures and weather. They also have a similar range of wildlife.

However, there are a few key differences between them.

Kenya Vs South Africa: Which is Best?

South Africa is arguably the most well-known and popular safari destination in the world. Being located at the southern tip of the African continent, the wildlife is a little different to that of East Africa and so there are some drastic differences between Kenya and South Africa.

Kenya Vs Botswana: Which is Best?

Botswana is one of the most remote safari destinations in Africa. Over 40% of the country has been set aside for wildlife through national parks and private reserves and so the safari experience is unrivalled. Botswana is also the most expensive wildlife destination in Africa.

Is Kenya Safe?

Yes – in my experience Kenya is safe to visit. Kenya’s safari circuit, especially, is well regarded as safe as it largely takes place outside busy cities, which are typically where you will encounter the most crime (in any country).

Although Kenya is safe, there are some precautions you can take to ensure you have the most relaxing experience. I’d also always recommend keeping up to date on the latest travel advice for Kenya.

First and foremost, be sensible when in busy towns and cities. Your safari will likely start and end in the capital city of Nairobi. Nairobi is my favourite city in Africa and I always love spending time there. The city has really come on in recent decades so that it’s much safer than it used to be.

Whilst not dangerous, it is possible to experience some hassle on the streets of Nairobi so, if this is something which makes you uncomfortable, avoid walking for long distances. Nairobi has Uber which I find is an extremely convenient way to get around.

Roads are perhaps your biggest safety concern in Kenya. Steer clear of public transport such as buses where possible as they are typically overcrowded and the drivers aren’t the safest.

It’s common for vehicles to not have working headlights. Therefore I’d recommend avoiding journeying at night where possible.

Occasionally, like when going to or from the airport, a night drive is unavoidable. In these situations, keep the driving time limited (choose a hotel close to the airport) and book with a reputable taxi company. In my experience, booking your airport transfer with your safari company is the best bet as they provide large, modern vehicles and the drivers are careful.

Wildlife poses very little threat to visitors. However, you can minimise any chances of accidents by listening carefully to your guide and avoiding leaving your room at night when staying in or near national parks.

Best Kenya Safari Itineraries

Kenya is such a vast country and so it can be hard to know what to fit in to your itinerary and how long to spend in each destination.

How to Prepare for Your Kenya Safari

You’ve made the decision to go on safari in Kenya. Fantastic! You’re now likely wondering how you go about organising different elements of the trip.

I’ll break down everything you need to prepare for your safari below.

Key Kenya Safari Logistics to Consider

If this is your first time going on safari, tackling the logistics of your trip can seem intimidating initially.

The good news is, if you book through a local tour operator, they will deal with pretty much everything, from accommodation to park fees, meals to vehicle. So booking in your safari with your tour operator will actually tick off most things from your list.

There are, however, a few things you’ll need to handle yourself before travelling to Kenya.

Do You Need a Visa to Enter Kenya?

Whilst you don’t technically need a traditional Visa to enter Kenya, you do need to apply online for electronic travel authorisation in advance of your trip. I’d recommend applying for this at least 2 weeks in advance of your trip.

Allow at least an hour to fill out the form and make sure you have all your travel documents to hand, including flight and hotel confirmations as you’ll need to upload these as part of your application.

What Are Kenya’s Entry Requirements?

As well as the eTA (electronic travel authorisation) outlined above, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive and it must have at least 2 blank pages.

There are no mandatory vaccinations required to enter Kenya unless you are coming from a Yellow Fever area, in which case you’ll need to show a Yellow Fever vaccine upon arrival in Kenya.

Do You Need Vaccinations for Kenya?

Whilst you don’t need a Yellow Fever certificate to enter Kenya if you’re visiting from a country that doesn’t have a Yellow Fever risk, Kenya itself does have a risk of Yellow Fever. This means that if you’re planning on visiting any other countries in East Africa such as Tanzania, Uganda or Rwanda, you do need a Yellow Fever certificate to cross between the two.

You also need a Yellow Fever certificate if arriving in Kenya from another country which is deemed a high-risk Yellow Fever area.

Although no other vaccinations are mandatory to enter Tanzania, you should view the list of vaccines that are recommended and check in with your doctor a few months before your trip. 

Some vaccines your doctor may recommend are Hepatitis A & B, Diphtheria, Meningitis and Typhoid.

Do you Need to Take Medication in Kenya?

Kenya is a high-risk area for malaria, most notably during the wet seasons, so precautions are essential. 

As an initial step, consult with your doctor or pharmacist who will inform you which anti-malaria tablets are suitable for you, as side effects can vary.

In addition to medication, there are a number of steps you can take to prevent bites. Wear long, loose clothing and cover yourself with insect repellent. At night sleep under a mosquito net as the type of mosquito that carries malaria is most active at night.

You’ll also need to bring any of your regular medication with you. Make sure you bring enough for the entire duration of your trip plus a bit extra in case of emergencies. 

If you’re prone to travel and altitude sickness on flights or long road journeys, check with your pharmacy before travelling to see what they recommend. 

What is the Currency in Kenya?

The local currency in Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling. Local currency can be obtained at the airport via a Bureau de Change or ATM. Nairobi also has ATMs, banks and Bureau de Changes. 

USD (printed after 2007) is largely accepted at lodges, hotels, and tourist-focused establishments, however, smaller local businesses and roadside vendors typically only accept local currency.

Credit / Debit cards are widely accepted, especially Visa. Card payments can incur a fee of 3-5%, added by the establishment to cover their card fees. They will typically tell you about this before payment.

If you plan to use your credit / debit card, let your bank know about your travel plans first to avoid it being blocked. You can normally do this via your bank’s phone app or website.

I personally just take USD and a multi currency Visa debit card (E.g. those offered by Wise, Revolut etc.). I pay in USD cash to tip my tour guide and at lodges as well as to purchase souvenirs from road-side shops. If I’m eating at a restaurant outside my lodge (these don’t tend to take USD), I typically use my debit card.

The only time you’ll really need local currency is if you plan on buying items from shops and stalls which are off the tourist path, for example, local fruit stalls.

How Much Cash Should I Bring to Kenya?

The majority of your safari will already be paid for (including meals) so cash is only really required for tips and souvenirs, plus some extra in case of an emergency.

Tipping in Kenya is customary, so although it’s not mandatory, it’s the norm and often expected.

Your driver guide is the key person who you may wish to tip. Guidelines for how much to tip your driver guide will vary depending on which company you book with. Each company has their own guidelines. But a tip is generally within the region of $10 – $30 per person per day.

Your driver guide is tipped in cash at the very end of your safari.

There are a couple of other people who you may wish to tip whilst in Kenya. This includes lodge staff and any expert guides you have for specific events (eg your hot air balloon pilot or walking safari ranger).

Lodges often have designated tip boxes. It’s recommended to tip at the very end of your stay. As a general rule, $5 per person per day is a fair tip. In cases where there is no tip box, I tend to tip as I go. For example, I will tip anyone who has helped me carry my bags to my room on the spot.

For a specific guide like a walking safari ranger, $5 per person is a good guideline.

Souveniers can be anything from $5 all the way up to $100 per item, depending on what it is. In my experience, bracelets are around $5 – $15 and wooden animal carvings are $15 or more. Most of my wooden animal carvings were around the $30 mark.

What Are The Plugs in Tanzania?

Tanzania mainly uses type G plug sockets (three square pins), the same plug socket as the UK.

Even if you live in a country with type G plug sockets (like me), I’d still recommend bringing at least one world adapter with you, just in case you encounter a hotel or lodge with unusual plug sockets.

Pro tip: If you have a lot of electronics like me, I’d recommend bringing a multi-plug. This has really saved me in hotels with only one working plug socket.

How Do I Book My Kenya Flights?

Kenya houses one of the largest and busiest airports in Africa, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, just outside the capital city on Nairobi. As a result, there are frequent flights to and from Nairobi from key hubs across the world.

My personal favourite airline to fly with is Qatar Airways. However, KLM and Emirates are other great choices.

For best prices, I recommend using a flight comparison website such as Skyscanner to find out what flights are available. Then I recommend you book directly with the airline themselves.

In regards to booking domestic flights, your tour operator can often assist you with this. They are often able to get preferable prices for small, local airlines.

How Should I Pack For A Kenya Safari?

If you’re embarking on your first African safari, packing can feel pretty overwhelming. You may be worried about whether you need safari-specific clothes or pondering if there are even any washing facilities available.

Don’t fret as I’m here to help! Below I will go into everything you need to know about packing for a Kenya safari.

Do I Need Specific Luggage?

You don’t technically need any specific luggage unless you are taking any domestic flights as part of your Kenya adventure.

Soft duffel bags and backpacks are preferable to hard-shell wheelie cases. This is because safari vehicles have limited boot space. They have just enough room for you to pile several duffel bags but if you are a group of over 2 people and you both have large hard-shell cases, it may be a struggle to fit them and putting luggage on the roof isn’t preferable, especially if you are going on safari as you need to pop the roof up to enjoy your safari.

Additionally, it’s much easier for camp and lodge staff to carry soft luggage. Camps and lodges often require you to walk through grass or sand to reach your tent or cottage and wheelie cases really struggle with these terrains. Trust me, I learnt this the hard way and felt so bad when a gentlemen had to carry my 25kg suitcase on his shoulders.

If you plan on taking any light aircraft in Kenya (if you fly between parks, for example), then soft-sided luggage is essential as these airlines require you to have soft luggage so that they can fit into the hold. The cabin also has limited space so wheelie suitcases won’t fit.

My go-to duffel bag for safaris is the 95-litre North Face Base Camp duffel.

My favourite carry-on rucksack is the Osprey Farpoint 55-litre. I find it the perfect size to transport my camera gear plus some essential extras for travel days.

Finally, I like to bring a small day-pack rucksack too (for walking safaris and other excursions where the 55-litre is far too big). My favourite is the Fjall Raven Skule 28-litre. For travel days, i just fold it down into the duffel bag.

If you don’t travel with lots of camera equipment, you could get away with using the smaller 28-litre as your carry-on.

What Are the Weight Restrictions on Light Aircraft?

The weight limits on light aircrafts such as the Cessna Grand Caravan 12-seater bush planes are less than your typical flights.

Most airlines, including AirKenya, Safarilink and Mombassa Air Safari have a 15kg baggage allowance which includes 5kg of hand luggage. That means you can only take 10kg of hold luggage. And yes, they do weigh the hold bags!

Some airlines may have slightly different requirements so do double-check with your airline before your safari.

Soft luggage is essential for these flights and they won’t accept hard-shell cases.

If you’re feeling concerned about the weight restrictions, you can take more luggage by purchasing a cargo or child seat (alongside your own seat). A child seat allows you to take around 10kgs extra and a cargo seat allows for 75kgs.

What Clothes Should I Bring?

Despite what some sources may lead you to believe, you don’t need to purchase safari-specific clothes for a safari. Regular items of clothing such as t-shirts, vest tops, leggings, chinos, shirts and hoodies are all suitable for a safari.

However, the colour does have some importance (avoid blacks and navy blues as they attract the biting tsetse fly) and the material may have an impact on how comfortable you are.

Natural materials such as linen, wool and cotton are more breathable and stop you from getting too hot.

Temperatures can really fluctuate in Kenya so its best to layer-up. Your base layer may be a t-shirt or vest top. Atop that you may have a linen shirt. And then atop that you may have a jumper, hoodie, gilet or jacket.

The specifications of the car you’ll be journeying in will have a significant impact on how cold you feel. If you’re in an safari-vehicle with no sides then you’ll ideally wear more layers for the cooler mornings and evenings as you’ll get more of a breeze than someone in a typical open-top Land Cruiser.

Being comfortable is very important to me on safari. Days can be long and dusty so take this into consideration when choosing your outfits.

Comfort continues into the evening and you’ll find that the majority of people dress casually for their evening meal. Yo won’t see any flowing dresses here! It’s common to wear the same clothes that you wear on safari, or something even more comfortable.

Being completely honest with you, I frequently push the boundaries of this casual dress code, typically donning jogging bottoms and a hoodie, sometimes even pyjamas. Evenings are often cold so no-one bats an eyelid.

Can You Wash Your Clothes on Safari?

Yes! Most lodges and camps have laundry facilities. Laundry services are often an additional charge on top of your safari.

Some lodges and camps don’t wash women’s underwear for cultural reasons and so I always travel with my own washing powder, just in case.

I tend to wash my clothes every 4 or so days on safari.

Does the Colour of My Clothes Matter?

Yes! The colour of your clothing does matter on safari.

Most importantly, avoid wearing blacks or navy blues as these colours attract the tsetse fly which has a nasty bite.

It’s generally recommended that you steer away from bright colours as these could startle the animals. The wildlife is generally pretty used to visitors in a range of coloured clothing but if you have more muted colours, it’s best not to take the risk.

The best colours for safari are neutrals, beiges and greens as they help you to blend in to your surroundings more (and hide the fact that you’re covered in dust!).

What Footwear Do I Need?

My preference is to travel with a pair of walking shoes with ankle support and a pair of sandals.

If I have excess room in my luggage then I like to bring a third pair of shoes which is a more casual pair of close-toe shoes such as trainers.

I like boots with ankle support as they cover me for pretty much every situation. They’re perfect for walking safaris as well as offering protection in the car. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve bashed my feet in the car which is mostly made of metal. The roads are bumpy and your driver often repositions during sightings, whilst you’re still standing up, and so bashes are pretty normal.

Sandals are great to have as you can wear them on days at the hotel or when lounging by the pool.

How Can I Protect Myself From the Sun?

The UV rays in Kenya are strong and so it’s important that you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from the son.

In terms of suncream, I always travel with both factor 30 and factor 50. I always use factor 50 on my face and then factor 30 on areas which are less prone to burning, like my arms. Don’t neglect to bring suncream for your lips too. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve burnt my lips and, my goodness, it’s uncomfortable.

As well as my lips, I have burnt my scalp more times than I can count. I’m guilty of hating wearing a hat but my mistakes show just how essential it is. A cap will be sufficient but a brimmed hat covers the back of your neck as well and is perfect for full-day game drives where the sun is constantly changing direction. Beanie hats are great for cold mornings.

It’s often advisable to cover up to prevent too much sun exposure. Linen shirts are great for keeping you covered whilst also not too hot at the same time.

How Can I protect Myself From the Insects?

Tsetse flies and mosquitos can be found throughout Kenya’s prime wildlife viewing areas. Both bite and you’ll want to take precautions to avoid them.

There is a risk of malaria throughout Kenya which is carried by mosquitos. Anti-malarial tablets are 99% effective so I’d highly recommend consulting your doctor or medical professional on the best anti-malarial tablet for you. I take these every time I visit Kenya.

In addition to taking anti-malarial tablets, it’s advisable to use insect repellent. DEET is the most effective but there are natural options available too. Sleeping under a mosquito net is a simple but easy way to protect yourself as malaria-carrying mosquitos are most active at night. Finally, wear long, loose clothing.

But mosquitos aren’t the only insect you need to deter. Tsetse flies are biting insects and they have a rather unpleasant bite. They love blacks and dark blues so avoid wearing those colours.

In my experience, insects aren’t a huge problem on safari in Kenya. I’ve actually never encountered mosquitos whilst on safari in Kenya, even in the wet season. Even so, I would always recommend taking precautions.

Complete Clothing Packing List

Below I have shared with you my complete clothing packing list for a Kenya safari:

Other Essentials Packing List

Below I have shared with you my complete essentials packing list for a Kenya safari:

• Mosquito repellent
• Suncream (I always bring factor 30 and 50 as well as special suncream for my lips)
• Antimalarial tablets
• Power adaptors (Kenya has type G sockets)
• Appliance chargers (phones, power banks, tablets, cameras, laptops etc)
• Multi-plug (if you have a lot of devices)
• Power bank (useful for long days on safari)
• Camera and its accessories (you can view a list of all my camera gear)
• Your usual toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner etc)
• First aid kit (I create my own and pack essentials such as plasters, bandages, painkillers, eye drops / wash, rehydration tablets, antiseptic wipes, bite cream, lip balm, Imodium, antihistamines, anti-nausea tablets, tweezers, nail clippers) 
• Eye mask & earplugs (if you’re a light sleeper)
• Snack bars (if, like me, you’re always hungry)
• Cash (mostly USD and potentially a small amount of Kenyan Shillings)

Special Interest / Unique Safaris

Game drives are just one of the many wildlife-related activities that you can embark on. Whether you want a more specific safari such as one that focuses on birding, or maybe you’d rather search for wildlife on foot, there’s something for everyone in Kenya.

Let’s delve into some of the most popular options.

Can You Go On Dedicated Photographic Safaris in Kenya?

Yes, you can! My favourite way to go on a photographic safari in Tanzania is to book a private safari through a tour operator who has dedicated photography-ready Land Cruisers and experienced guides who understand photography. I’ve had some really amazing photographic safaris by booking this way!

Many of my recommended tour operators have open-sided Land Cruisers which are perfect for photography. Simply let them know you’re interested in photography and would like the best guide for photography.

A secondary option is to book on a group photography tour led by a popular photographer. The limitations of this type of safari is availability, they are typically a lot more expensive and you don’t have a private vehicle and so are competing with others for the best view.

Are Balloon Safaris Worth It?

Yes! In my opinion there’s nothing like a balloon safari as they allow you to see the sprawling Maasai Mara from above. It’s only when up in the air that you see the scale of the savannah and of the great wildebeest migration.

Balloon safaris also come with a champagne breakfast in the bush afterwards, another unique experience.

Can You Go On Bird Watching Safaris in Kenya?

Yes, you can! A whopping 1,100 bird species have been recorded in Kenya, including resident, endemic, and migratory birds. This makes Kenya the ideal country for a bird-focused safari.

There are a limited number of operators who focus exclusively on bird watching. However, bird watching safaris are not limited to only these companies. I’ve had some incredible guides from local tour companies who have been able to point out hundreds of bird species to me. Just let them know you’re interested in bird watching and they’ll allocate their most skilled guide to you.

Can You Go On Walking Safaris in Kenya?

Yes, you can! Walking safaris are a great way to stretch your legs and truly immerse yourself in the natural landscape. But they are only available in select locations.

As a general rule, walking safaris aren’t permitted in Big Five national parks. However, private conservancies, including the Maasai Mara conservancies, all allow guided walking safaris.

The conservancies in Laikipia County, such as Ol Pejeta, are also great for walking safaris.

You can also go on walking safaris in areas outside of national parks. For example, it’s possible to go on a walking safari outside Amboseli National Park, in the wilderness that surrounds lodges near Kilima Gate.

A walking safari is a great way to breakup game drives on your multi-day Kenya safari. If you’d like to embark on embarking on a walking safari or two, just let your favourite tour operator know and they’ll include them in the itinerary for you.

Can You Go On Safaris By Bike in Tanzania?

Yes, you can! There are a number of locations that permit cycling safaris in Kenya.

The most well-known is Hell’s Gate National Park which allows you to cycle through jaw-dropping scenery, in the company of a warthog or two.

Private conservancies also allow cycling safaris. Ol Pejeta is a great example as they promote mountain biking safaris.

Like with walking safaris, a cycling safari can be arranged into your itinerary by your tour operator.

Can You Go On Horse Riding Safaris in Kenya?

Yes, you can! Horse riding safaris are offered by a number of private conservancies across Kenya.

Mara North Conservancy, which borders the Maasai Mara National Reserve, offers multi-day horse riding safaris.

Ol Pejeta and Loisaba are two of many conservancies in central Kenya which offer horse riding safaris.

Horse riding is not typically permitted within national parks and reserves.

Can You Go On Fly-In Safaris in Tanzania?

Yes! If you have the budget, a safari which allows you to fly from location to location is a great way to maximise time spent on safari and minimise journey time.

Most parks, reserves and conservancies throughout Kenya house their own airstrips, making it incredibly easy to fly from one wildlife destination to another.

Each flight costs around $300 per person so fly-in safaris are typically only included in luxury safari packages.

Can You Go On Helicopter Safaris in Kenya?

Yes, you can go on helicopter safaris in Kenya.

Scenic helicopter rides offer a great opportunity to see some of Kenya’s most unique and surreal landscapes from above, such as The Great Rift Valley, Mount Kenya, Lake Michaelson, Mukutan Gorge and Lake Bogoria.

Helicopter tours can be booked through your lodge if you’re staying at a luxury lodge and often start from your lodge. Alternatively, there are tours that can start from Wilson Airport in Nairobi.

Helicopter tours normally last for a couple of hours and some include a stop for a picnic lunch in a scenic location.

Can You Go Hiking And Trekking in Kenya?

Yes! Hiking and trekking trips are extremely popular in Kenya. Kenya hosts some beautiful natural scenery, from the towering peaks of Mount Kenya to the jaw-dropping gorges of Hell’s Gate National Park.

The most popular hiking trip you can embark on in Kenya is a multi-day hike to summit Mount Kenya.

Other mountains you can tackle are Mount Longonot, a now-dormant volcano and Mount Elgon, An extinct volcano that straddles the border with Uganda.

Can You Go Fly-Camping in Kenya?

You can fly-camp in Kenya in designated campsites. There are government-run campsites in many of Kenya’s reserves, including Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Samburu.

A fly-camping safari involves sleeping in basic ground tents. You can book this type of safari through many tour operators. Thee safaris typically come with your own chef who moves with you from campsite to campsite.

Can You Self-Drive in Kenya?

Whilst it’s possible to self-drive in Kenya, I wouldn’t endorse it unless you are very experienced at driving in foreign countries and have off-road experience.

Kenya isn’t the easiest place to embark on a self-drive safari. Several parks, including Maasai Mara, have strict regulations around which vehicles they let into them and the roads within the park aren’t the best maintained.

Final Thoughts

Kenya is in my opinion the perfect place for a first-time safari. With so much incredible wildlife and great infrastructure, it provides the ideal balance between ease and unforgettable experiences.

In this guide I’ve given you everything you need to arrange your own Kenya safari. If you follow everything outlined in this article, I’m confident you’ll have the safari of a lifetime!

If you wish to explore some of the topics that we’ve discussed here more in depth, I’ve included links to some of my other Kenya guides below.