SAFARI HOLIDAYS AND TOURS IN KENYA

Kenya offers an incredibly diverse range of activities catering to every interest. The absolute highlight for many is experiencing the world-renowned game parks like the Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo, where you can witness the incredible wildlife in their natural habitat on thrilling game drives. Beyond the wild parks, you can visit heartwarming animal sanctuaries such as the Nairobi Animal Orphanage, The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) for orphaned elephants, and the Giraffe Centre near Nairobi. For a different kind of wildlife encounter, Haller Park near Mombasa offers coastal forest trails and animal viewing. If you’re interested in vibrant city life, explore the bustling nightlife in areas like Nairobi, Nakuru, and Eldoret. To delve into Kenya’s rich cultural tapestry, consider visiting traditional Kenyan villages, particularly Maasai and Samburu villages, where you can learn about their ancient customs and way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. For relaxation and marine adventures, the Kenyan coast is a paradise with stunning beaches in areas like Diani and Watamu, offering opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring historic coastal towns like Mombasa. Other experiences include hiking Mount Kenya, exploring the Great Rift Valley, or simply soaking in the breathtaking landscapes that vary from savannahs to forests to coastlines.

Kenya is home to numerous iconic destinations that promise unforgettable experiences. The Masai Mara National Reserve is arguably the most famous, particularly for the Great Wildebeest Migration, and we offer specific Masai Mara packages to help you explore this incredible area. Amboseli National Park is known for its large elephant herds and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Tsavo (East and West) offers vast open plains and diverse wildlife. For a blend of history, culture, and beautiful beaches, the coastal city of Mombasa and surrounding towns like Diani and Watamu are must-visits. Adventurous travelers can challenge themselves by hiking Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak. For cultural immersion, guided trips to Maasai and Samburu villages provide a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and understanding traditional lifestyles. Other epic places include Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its flamingos and rhinos, Lake Naivasha for boat trips and walking safaris, and Samburu National Reserve for unique northern species.

Kenya is blessed with spectacular natural attractions. The most famous is undoubtedly the Great Wildebeest Migration, a natural spectacle where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of greener pastures. Mount Kenya, an extinct volcano, stands as Africa’s second-highest mountain and offers challenging climbs and stunning alpine scenery. Kenya is also a crucial country for rhino conservation, hosting the largest rhino sanctuary in East Africa at Solio Conservancy, as well as significant rhino populations in other parks like Lake Nakuru and Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The dramatic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley, with its escarpments, lakes (like Nakuru, Naivasha, and Bogoria), and geothermal features, are a natural wonder. Other attractions include the coastal coral reefs teeming with marine life, the diverse forests like the Aberdare Range, and the semi-arid landscapes of the north.

The best time for safari in Kenya largely depends on what you want to see and experience, as well as your budget. Generally, the long dry season from July to October is considered the best time to go on safari in Kenya. During this period, wildlife is easier to spot as vegetation is sparse and animals congregate around water sources. This is also the time of the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Masai Mara (typically peaking around August-September). The short dry season in January and February is also excellent for wildlife viewing.

The shoulder seasons (March-May and November-December) can offer good value with fewer crowds, although these are the wet seasons. Rains are often short showers, and the landscape is lush and green, which is great for photography, especially for birdlife.

For budget travelers, the low season (April-May) often sees lower prices for accommodation and tours, though some lodges might close, and road conditions can be challenging.

Choosing the right clothing for a Kenya safari is important for comfort, safety, and cultural respect. In the national parks and reserves, opt for neutral, earthy colours like khaki, brown, olive, and grey. Bright colours are discouraged as they can potentially scare animals. Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton are ideal. Layers are essential as temperatures can vary throughout the day, mornings and evenings can be cool, while midday is often hot. Long sleeves and trousers are recommended for protection from the sun and insects, especially in the evenings.

When visiting towns and villages, it’s important to dress modestly out of respect for local culture. Shoulders and knees should ideally be covered, particularly when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing.

Essential items include comfortable walking shoes or boots, a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection, and a light jacket or fleece for cooler times.

The cost of a Kenya safari varies significantly depending on numerous factors. These include:

Travel Style- Group tours are generally less expensive per person than private or solo travel.

Accommodation- Costs range from budget camping and basic lodges to mid-range options and luxurious high-end camps and hotels. Luxury safaris can cost several hundred to thousands of dollars per person per night.

Season- Traveling during the peak dry season (July-October) is typically more expensive than the shoulder or low seasons.

Transportation- Traveling by road is usually more budget-friendly than taking internal flights between parks, which saves time but adds cost.

Duration- The longer your safari, the higher the total cost will be.

Areas Visited- Some parks have higher entrance fees than others, and travel costs between parks can vary. On average, a mid-range safari can range from $200 to $500 per person per day, while budget options might be lower and luxury significantly higher. It’s best to get a custom quote from us based on your specific preferences.

Packing smart will enhance your Kenya safari experience. Besides the recommended kenya safari clothes (neutral colours, layers), essential items include:

Accessories- Binoculars are crucial for spotting distant wildlife. A good quality camera with extra batteries/memory cards is a must for capturing memories.

Health & Safety- High SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, personal medications, and a basic first-aid kit are vital.

Documents & Money- Your passport, visa (if required), flight tickets, and travel insurance details. Carry some cash in Kenyan Shillings for smaller purchases and tipping, although credit cards are accepted in many lodges and shops.

Comfort Items- A reusable water bottle, a small backpack for day trips, a universal travel adapter, and a headlamp or small flashlight.

Optional- A good book for downtime, a journal, and perhaps a small wildlife guide book. But this is not necessary because you wont even have time for all that, kenya is full of endless fun and things to do where you even need a whole 2 months before you experience it all.

Tipping on a Kenya safari is customary, particularly for guides, drivers, and lodge staff, but it is always optional and should reflect your satisfaction with the service. There isn’t a strict rule, and the amount can depend on the length of your safari, the level of service, and your budget. A commonly suggested figure for a safari guide/driver is around $10-20 per person per day. For excellent service over a multi-day safari, some guests choose to give a lump sum at the end, for example, around $50 per person or more depending on the duration and group size. Lodge staff often have a communal tip box, and a suggested amount is around $5-10 per guest per day. Ultimately, tip what you feel is appropriate and affordable for you.

Yes, generally it is safe for Americans to travel to Kenya. Millions of tourists visit Kenya each year without incident, and the country is a popular and welcoming destination. Like any country, it has areas and situations to be aware of. It’s advisable to take standard precautions, such as avoiding displaying valuable items, being aware of your surroundings, and not walking alone in unfamiliar areas at night, particularly in large cities. Safari areas are generally very safe, with guides and lodge staff prioritizing your security. It’s recommended to stay informed about current travel advisories from your government and to register your trip details with your embassy. Using reputable tour operators like Twinkle Star Tours and Safaris also adds an extra layer of safety and expertise to your trip.

If you wish to visit both Kenya and Tanzania, timing is key to maximizing your experience, especially if you want to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration.

For Kenya, the best time for wildlife viewing is generally the dry seasons (July-October and January-February).

For Tanzania, the dry seasons (June-October and January-February) are also excellent for wildlife. The migration is typically in the Serengeti from December to July, before moving north into the Masai Mara. To visit both countries to follow the Great Migration, the prime time is typically from July to October. During these months, the migration is often in the northern Serengeti and the Masai Mara, making it possible to see this incredible event in both countries on a single trip. However, wildlife viewing is excellent in many parks in both countries year-round; the best time depends on your specific interests beyond the migration. The two countries offer way more than wildlife viewing.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on required and recommended vaccines for traveling to Kenya, it is best to consult official sources. You should refer to the Kenyan Ministry of Health website https://www.health.go.ke/  or the official Kenya visa website https://immigration.ecitizen.go.ke/index.php?id=5  which provide comprehensive health information and entry requirements, including details on vaccinations and malaria precautions. Additionally, consulting with your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip is highly recommended, as they can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and the specific areas in Kenya you plan to visit.