Kenya

1. Watch Nature’s Most Enthralling Show: The Great Migration

No Masai Mara safari is complete without seeing one of nature's most epic wildlife journeys: the annual Great Wildebeest Migration. Securing a front-row seat to this thundering parade of hooves sweeping across the savannah is arguably the biggest reason why so many flock to this East African region time and time again.

The best time to visit Kenya to see the wildebeest migration is typically from July to September/October. Depending on the movements of the mega-herds, you're likely to see everything from the battles for survival during the iconic Mara River crossings to hunkering down to watch these majestic creatures as they graze on the plains, indulging in the abundant food and water. Each moment of this grand show will leave you enraptured.

Highlights:

2. A Year-Round Safari Destination

Wildlife in Kenya is abundant and thriving, with all of Africa's favourite species residing in one region or the other. The country's mild climate, wide open spaces, and varying landscapes make it perfect for year-round game viewing.

Comprising several picturesque regions that appear as if they were specifically designed for adventurous wildlife safaris, visitors to Kenya can expect thrilling sightings of iconic animals, from the famous Big 5 (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino) to common favourites like giraffe and cheetah.

Where Can You See Wildlife In Kenya?

3. Lodges & Camps For Every Traveller

A diverse range of luxury safari lodges and camps in Kenya make it an ideal destination for every traveller. From unforgettable family properties that offer child-friendly activities and services, to exclusive hideaways for romantics, from adventurous Kenya honeymoons to exclusive-use camps for small groups of friends, there's not much that this premier safari destination can't cater to.

Whether you're seeking an authentic, rustic experience without foregoing modern comforts, or an opulent sojourn in lavish, Victorian-style lodges with all the trimmings – or maybe something in between – Kenya has it all and then some.

What Can You Expect?

4. Easily Combine Kenya With Other Travel Destinations

Why choose between a Kenya vs Tanzania safari when you enjoy both in one impeccable itinerary? Kenya's infrastructure network blends seamlessly with Africa's travel logistics. Regular flights and easy accessibility make adding on other nearby destinations simple and convenient.

Often combined with top attractions like the Serengeti, gorilla trekking in Rwanda, or the pristine coastline comprising the best beaches in Kenya, the options to round off your African getaway are practically endless.

Your Kenya Safari Can Easily Be Combined With:

5. Soul-Stirring Encounters & Unforgettable Unique Experiences

While the Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the biggest reasons travellers from all over the world visit Kenya on safari, the East African country has so much more on offer. There's an activity and experience for every traveller's interests.

The best places to visit in Kenya encompass more than just the favourites, like the Masai Mara. A rich, diverse land, Kenya boasts awe-inspiring hidden gems and off-the-beaten-track destinations that offer a wealth of unique experiences and unforgettable adventures. From scaling Mount Kenya, Africa's second-largest peak, to stepping back in time with a sunset dhow cruise off the coast of the UNESCO World Heritage Island, Lamu. Trade 4×4 vehicles for guided horse and camelback safaris or go on foot and track wildlife on walking safaris. Or head down to the country's coast for a beachside luxury getaway.

Wildlife enthusiasts enjoy the mega-herds of the migration but also delight in classic Big 5 safaris in the Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo. Even Kenya's capital, Nairobi, has a few incredible experiences in store. Enjoy a game drive in Nairobi National Park, a truly unique reserve surrounded by skyscrapers and city blocks.

For the conservationists among us, Nairobi also offers experiences like feeding Rothschild's giraffes at the Giraffe Centre and spending time with orphaned baby elephants at the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. Ol Pejeta in Laikipia is best known for its conservation of endangered black and white rhinos, and guests have the special opportunity to get up close to these gentle creatures.

Kenya isn't only home to wildlife; the people who reside here are incredible and have so much wisdom to impart on others. Immerse yourself in the culture of traditional Samburu and Maasai communities, where you'll gain life changing insight and new perspectives on life.

Highlights:

Plan Your Kenya Safari With Local Experts

With offices in Kenya and South Africa, our Africa Safari Experts are perfectly positioned to provide comprehensive, first-hand knowledge and advice when planning your greatest adventure. Kenya is more than a travel destination – it's our home. Get in touch and let us curate an epic journey that gets the best out of Kenya.

1. Masai Mara: Wildebeest Migration & Year-Round Game-Viewing

Kenya’s flagship conservation area, the Masai Mara, may not be the country’s largest but it forms part of the Masai Mara-Serengeti ecosystem that is home to the famous Great Wildebeest Migration. It's here where a Masai Mara safari offers the most dramatic game viewing and widest range of experiences suited to all travellers. It’s where to go in Kenya for hot air balloon flights, action-packed game drives, cultural interactions and guided nature walks in private conservancies. All of this, coupled with spectacular Masai Mara lodges, make it one of the top Kenya destinations.

2. Lamu Archipelago: Classic Barefoot Luxury Beach Experience

Scuba diving and snorkelling on pristine reefs, sunset dhow cruises and swimming with dolphins – the unspoilt Lamu Archipelago combines all the elements of a fantastic beach holiday and is a perfect add-on to a Kenya safari. It is also one of the best holiday destinations in Kenya for a sensational honeymoon getaway. Superb luxury accommodation is available both on Lamu Island and nearby Manda Island.

3. Nairobi: East Africa's Logistics Hub

With the majority of our best Kenya safaris starting or ending in Nairobi, a stopover in this city is almost inevitable. International visitors will fly into Jomo Kenyatta Airport but it’s Wilson Airport, some 90 minutes away, that provides regional and charter flights to Kenya’s top destinations such as the Masai Mara. Nairobi is an extremely lively city – the largest between Johannesburg and Cairo – and is one in which you can experience the authentic ‘everyday Africa’.

Downtown Nairobi is best avoided however, especially as most of the city’s main places of interest – the Karen Blixen Museum, the Giraffe Centre and the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage – are located in the city’s leafy suburbs. Speaking of giraffes, a must-visit Kenya vacation spot is the otherworldly Giraffe Manor, where the gentle creatures poke their heads through your bedroom window for a truly unforgettable experience. The Nairobi National Park, despite a startling backdrop of city skyscrapers, is a haven for lion, rhino, zebra and various species of antelope and serves as a great introduction to ethical animal encounters in Africa.

4. Mombasa & Kenya Beaches: Family Resorts & Luxury Lodges

With all the attention on Kenya’s safari destinations, it’s easy to forget that the country has a dazzling tropical coastline. However, the sandy shores and crystal blue oceans are widely considered some of Kenya's prime vacation spots. Mainland Mombasa is a one of the family-favourite Kenya destinations for got-it-all Kenya beach resorts, but ask us about Kenya’s more exclusive mainland beach lodges where the accent is on exclusivity, luxury and indulgence.

5. Amboseli National Park: Best Views of Mt Kilimanjaro

A short distance from Nairobi, Amboseli National Park is the ideal Kenya destination to soak up the classic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, ironically situated across the border in Tanzania. There’s great big game viewing as well – especially around the Amboseli’s wetland areas – although it’s a popular and busy park at the best of times, given that year-round here is considered the best time for a safari in Kenya -­ so expect to share your sightings with other visitors. Want to explore more? We've got a great guide on how to decide between Kilimanjaro vs Mt Kenya, helping you make your travel experience that much more memorable.

6. Laikipia Plateau: Private Reserves & Outstanding Accommodation

Kenya’s newest safari destination lies just north of Nairobi on the rim of the magical Great Rift Valley. An area of thriving private reserves, luxurious family-friendly accommodation and considered one of the best honeymoon destinations in Africa, Laikipia is a must-visit Kenya vacation spot. If you’re in search of an air of exclusivity and a diverse, intimate Kenya safari experience away from the crowds, this is it.

Mount Kenya & Central Highlands: Game Viewing Away from the Crowds

While there’s no doubting the allure of the Masai Mara, visitors to Kenya who are after less crowded safari destinations should head for the rugged Central Highlands. Africa’s second highest peak, the 5200m Mount Kenya looms over much of the region which includes great wildlife destinations such as family-friendly and multi-activity Meru National Park, the private Lewa Downs Conservancy in the foothills of Mt Kenya, the Mount Kenya National Park and the amazing forests of Aberdares National Park.

It can be tricky deciding between visiting Mount Kenya vs Kilimanjaro, given each have their own unique charm. But, If you’re looking for a relaxed Mount Kenya safari, then any one of these parks fits the bill. Recently UNESCO has announced that the Mount Kenya-Lewa Wildlife Conservancy will be added as an extension to Mount Kenya National Park, enhancing the protection of the land as a World Heritage Site and skyrocketing the region to a top Kenya vacation spot.

8. Lake Nakuru: Spectacular Game Viewing

Lake Nakuru in Kenya is just a three-hour drive from Nairobi in the Great Rift Valley. It boasts an abundance of wildlife and spectacular landscapes. Rhino and hippo are among the heavyweights, though bird watchers will be more interested in the 400 species of birds recorded here. While there, book yourself into the sensational Lake Nakuru Lodge for a quintessential Kenya vacation.

9. Shaba and Samburu: Untamed Wilderness

Shaba and Samburu National Reserves lie to the north of the region where Kenya’s savannah gives way to desert scrub and mountains. The scenery is dramatic, and besides a familiar cast of classic African animals you’ll find species here that don’t occur in Kenya’s more popular parks, making it one of the most appealing places to visit in Kenya. Samburu National Reserve is widely considered one of the prime Kenya vacation spots due to its magnificent topography and wildlife, while Shaba is no different except for its slight change in landscape.

Visiting Kenya in January & February

January is a great time to visit Kenya for game viewing and is the height of the summer season. January lies outside of the two notable ‘long' and ‘short' rain periods and is a good time for beach holidays on the Kenyan coast, but the temperatures are high.

February is another great month for a Kenya safari, the central highlands are warm in the day and cool in the evening, while the coast is extremely hot in the daytime and temperatures follow suit in the evening. February experiences the lowest levels of precipitation in the Masai Mara, compared to the rest of the year, and the chances of encountering wild species at watering holes is higher. February is where to go in Kenya to conquer Africa's second highest peak, Mount Kenya.

Travelling to Kenya from March to May

In March, the weather transitions quite quickly from ‘hot and dry' to ‘wet and rainy'. Rain is commonplace throughout large parts of the country, and the savannah often becomes a muddy landscape – with some areas difficult to visit due to impassible roads. The silver lining to the less-than-ideal weather is that crowds are absent and costs are lower.

April is one of the wettest and rainiest months in Kenya. Nairobi and the central highlands are hot in the day and comfortable at night, while Mombasa is hot both in the day and at night. Game drives can be challenging on muddy roads in this month, but it's a fantastic time for photographers to go on safari. There is no dust, the landscape is lush and beautifully green, and the skies provide moody backdrops for incredible wildlife images. Just be sure to protect your equipment from the elements!

In May the long rains have settled in to quench the African plains, and along the coastline, the beaches are no longer a sunshine paradise. It's not an ideal time for a powder-soft sand, ocean escape.

Travelling to Kenya from June to October

The months of June through to October mark the start of the long dry season, which is regarded as the best time to go to Kenya for a truly ‘Out of Africa' safari experience. The weather is at its best in these dry months, wildlife congregate around water sources, and there is an air of anticipation for the arrival of the Great Migration's mega-herds into the Masai Mara.

Towards the end of July is when the herds of Mother Nature's greatest spectacle start arriving in the Masai Mara and when you could have a front-row seat to dramatic river crossings. The weather is temperate and dry but not too dusty, and occasional bouts of showers are still possible.

In August, the Great Migration is at its height. Temperatures are pleasant, and awe-inspiring action can be witnessed when thousands of zebras and wildebeest perform their death-defying river crossings, with hungry crocodiles in wait. The weather is generally dry in September and the game-viewing action continues.

In October, the migratory herds usually start leaving the Masai Mara, but Kenya has no shortage of resident wildlife that will keep safari enthusiasts delighted in Big 5 country.

Visiting Kenya between November & December

November is the start of the short rainy season and most of the parks and camps remain open, while some camps close on the Laikipia Plateau. Despite the rain, this is a good time to take the opportunity to enjoy a less crowded Kenya safari at lower prices.

The last month of the year can be very hot with potential rain, but viewing the local wildlife is – as it always is – spectacular. December is also great for birdwatchers as bird numbers increase greatly at this time of the year.

What is the difference between the Masai Mara National Reserve and a Private Conservancy?

This is a key choice for your safari! The National Reserve is the iconic heart of the Mara, home to the Great Migration crossings. However, it can get busy during peak season. Private Conservancies border the reserve and offer a more exclusive experience. In a conservancy, you can enjoy activities that are prohibited in the main reserve, such as guided bush walks, night game drives, and off-road driving for closer sightings, all while supporting local Maasai communities who lease the land for conservation.

Is there really a ban on plastic bags in Kenya?

Yes, and Kenya takes it very seriously. To protect the environment and wildlife, there is a strict ban on the use, manufacture, and importation of all single-use plastic bags. This includes duty-free shopping bags and even small Ziploc bags used for toiletries. We recommend removing all plastic packaging from your luggage before you land in Kenya and using reusable fabric or waterproof bags instead.

Can I go on a hot-air balloon safari anywhere in Kenya?

While the most famous balloon safaris take place over the plains of the Masai Mara at dawn, ending with a spectacular champagne breakfast in the bush,they are also available in other iconic locations like Amboseli National Park (with views of Mt. Kilimanjaro) and the Laikipia Plateau. It is a quintessential Kenyan experience that we recommend booking in advance, as spaces are limited and highly sought after.

Safety & Security

‘Can I travel to Kenya?’ is a question asked by many travellers, especially first-timers wanting travel advice for this wildlife-rich East African country that is home to the Great Wildebeest Migration over the plains of the Masai Mara.

Although Kenya has been a victim of tragic terrorist attacks, it is important to remember that these are very far from the main tourism hubs. Security has been stepped up at all airports – especially Jomo Kenyatta and Wilson – and at hotels across Nairobi. Travel conditions can change, so check current official advice before departure. We recommend confirming transfer arrangements and on-trip support with your accommodation and local operators.

For more Kenya travel advice, please read our expert blog on ‘Is it Safe to Travel to Kenya?’ that is packed with important information and insiders’ takes on the current situation.

Money & Spending

Kenya’s national currency is the Kenyan Shilling and although foreign currencies such as US Dollars are widely accepted (and indeed the currency required for activities like hot-air balloon safaris) we’d recommend using local currency to pay for bar bills, souvenirs and meals not included in your itinerary.

Please note that due to the number of fake notes in circulation, no US Dollar bills printed before 2003 are accepted in Kenya and, in fact, your safest bet is to carry notes printed after 2006.

Banking facilities and ATMs are found throughout Kenya’s major travel destinations and all major credit cards are widely accepted, in particular MasterCard, Visa and American Express.

Banking hours are from 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 11am on the first and last Saturday of the month for most banks.

Tipping

Tipping for good service is customary in Kenya although it is of course at your discretion – bear in mind that some of the larger hotels will add a service charge onto your bill. A 10% tip is customary in city restaurants and bars when a service charge is not included.

For in-depth tipping guidelines, enquire with one of our Africa Safari Experts – they’d be happy to share their knowledge with you.

Climate

Average summer temperatures: 20°C / 68°F to 34°C / 93°F

Average winter temperatures: 18°C / 64°F to 29°C / 84°F

Rainy season: mid-March to June (‘long rains’) and October to December (‘short rains’)

Refer to best time to visit Kenya for climate charts, details on the best wildlife-viewing times and when to witness the Masai Mara migration.

What to Pack

For your Kenya safari, pack light casual wear in neutral colours (try to avoid white, black and blue) and a warm jacket for evening game drives. For more on what to pack for a safari, refer to our Africa Safari Guide travel advice section.

In Kenya’s major cities the dress code is conservative but not overly formal – jeans and modest tops for women are fine. Swimsuits are acceptable on the beach but you'll need to cover up in public places.

How should I interact with the Maasai or Samburu people?

Cultural interaction is one of Kenya's greatest rewards. Kenya is a fairly conservative society, especially where Islam holds sway, and much emphasis is placed on courtesy and manners. But by and large the people of Kenya are easy-going, amiable, humorous and helpful, making travelling and interacting with them a real pleasure.

Most lodges work closely with local Maasai and Samburu communities. If you visit a traditional boma (village), always ask your guide about the local etiquette. It is vital to ask permission before taking photographs of people. If you wish to support the community, purchasing authentic, handmade beadwork directly from the craftspeople is a meaningful way to contribute to the local economy.

Flights & Getting Around

For flight schedules, fares and booking terms, check directly with the airline or your chosen travel agent.

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport: East Africa’s major flight hub is located 13km / 8mi outside Nairobi and is the gateway to the Masai Mara, Amboseli, Mombasa and Kenya’s beaches as well as Zanzibar and Tanzania. There are also good connections from here to Uganda, Rwanda and the Seychelles.

Wilson Airport: a regional airport about 90 minutes by road from Jomo Kenyatta, Wilson is the hub for almost all of Kenya’s internal flights and serves its fly-in safari locations. Ensure you have time between your international flight and domestic flight to make the transfer between the two airports.

Moi Mombasa International Airport: located about 10km / 6.2mi northwest of the town itself, Mombasa’s airport is the gateway to the Kenyan coast.

Chartered flights are a great way to get around Kenya and avoid the country’s often dirt roads; transfers from airstrips to lodges are conducted in 4X4 vehicles.

Road transfers from airports and between major destinations tend to use mini buses as do scheduled safaris to popular destinations such as the Masai Mara. Sliding windows and a pop-up roof provide passengers on mini buses with ample viewing opportunities on game drives whereas safaris to more remote destinations and private conservancies use open-sided 4X4s.

What is the vibe of Nairobi? Should I stay a night?

Nairobi has evolved into a vibrant, modern African hub and is well worth a night’s stay. Rather than rushing straight to the bush, a night in Nairobi allows you to visit the world-famous Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (to see orphaned elephants) and the Giraffe Centre. The city also boasts a sophisticated dining scene and boutique hotels, like the legendary Giraffe Manor, which provide a wonderful soft landing before your safari begins.

Visa & Passport Requirements

Visas are required by most visitors to Kenya including British, American, Canadian, European, Australian and New Zealand passport holders. Citizens from some smaller Commonwealth countries are exempt.

Visas are valid for three months from the date of entry and can be purchased upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Visitors can pay for their visas in local currency and they must possess a passport that is valid until six months after the initial date of travel.

If you plan on travelling onwards from Kenya, visas for other East African countries such as Tanzania and Uganda can generally be obtained in Nairobi for around US$50 each.

History & Economy

Independence from Britain in 1963 may have been the beginning of a new chapter for Kenya but this East African country has a human history that stretches back to prehistoric times.

Lying at the heart of a region from which modern humans emerged some 150 000 years ago, Kenya’s history has been shaped not only by indigenous and migrating African ethnic groups but by European and Arabian traders, missionaries and colonisers as well. Jomo Kenyatta was the first leader of independent, post-colonial Kenya and his conciliatory rallying cry harambee – all pull together – became the national motto.

Today, Kenya boasts the largest and most advanced economy in East Africa. Agriculture accounts for 75% of the work force but it is the service industry, dominated by tourism, which contributes nearly two thirds of Kenya’s GDP.

People & Culture

Kenya’s predominantly young population (nearly 75% of Kenyans are under 30) is made up of many ethnic groups that include the famous Maasai. English and Swahili are the official languages (any attempts to speak Swahili will be warmly received by locals!) and the vast majority of Kenyans consider themselves Christian. About 10% of the population are Muslim, the majority living on Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast.

Landscape & Wildlife

Straddling the equator, Kenya is dominated by the Rift Valley, a raised region of lakes, hills and mountains that is the result of a 6 000km crack in the earth’s crust. Dividing the flat coastal plains from the fertile shores of Lake Victoria, the rolling temperate grasslands of the central Rift Valley are home to huge numbers of animals and consequently Kenya’s most famous parks and reserves.

Northern Kenya’s hot and arid scrublands are home to wilder, more remote parks and a different set of animals while the Indian Ocean coast is a place of long sandy beaches, coral reefs and tropical islands.

Most famous for the wildebeest migration that moves through the Masai Mara and Serengeti ecosystem, Kenya’s ban on hunting plus private and local community conservation initiatives have helped to safeguard one of Africa’s most important populations of large animals. There are healthy numbers of the Big 5, abundant predators and plains game, and a long list of bird species. No wonder then that several Kenyan parks deliver the easiest game viewing in Africa!

Will I definitely see the Great Migration?

Nature follows its own timetable, but we can certainly help you be in the right place at the right time, or recommend a safari itinerary that ticks all your boxes while avoiding the migration crowds. Typically, the herds arrive in the Masai Mara from the Serengeti between July and October. This is the best window to witness the dramatic Mara River crossings. Outside of these months, the Mara still offers some of the best year-round resident wildlife viewing in Africa, including the Big 5 and high concentrations of big cats.

A Safari for Every Type of Traveller

Nowhere else on Earth will you find such an impressive combination of incredible game reserves and wildlife sanctuaries, golden beaches, and bustling cities. Kenya vacation packages are ideal for both first timers and seasoned safari travellers. Whether you are learning about local Maasai culture, relaxing on palm-fringed, white-sand beaches, or traversing wild landscapes for Nature's spectacles, Kenya is everything you'd imagine it to be and more.

Browse our recommended Kenya tour packages below or simply get in touch with one of our Africa Safari Experts to help tailor-make a South Africa itinerary that matches your travel wishes and budget:

From KSh995,720 to KSh1,347,530 pps

Kenya Classic Safari

Highlights

Front row seats to the world-renowned Great Migration. Exclusive wildlife encounters.

Destinations visited

From KSh784,115 to KSh1,032,070 pps

Kenya's Two Parks Conservation, Community & Wildlife Safari

Highlights

Stay in a private conservancies to escape the crowds. Enjoy day and night game drives.

Destinations visited

From KSh928,345 pps

Kenya’s Amboseli & Masai Mara’s Hidden Gems Safari

Highlights

An urban safari starts at Manzili House . Kilimanjaro views & wildlife wonders.

Destinations visited

From KSh533,560 to KSh734,780 pps

Kenya's Best-Value Mara & Diani Beach

Highlights

A classic ‘beach-and-bush' itinerary. Visit the famed Masai Mara.

Destinations visited

From KSh1,318,970 to KSh1,785,025 pps

East Africa Year-Round Migration Safari

Highlights

First night spent on a coffee estate with Mount Meru as your backdrop. Big Five encounters at the famed Ngorongoro Crater.

Destinations visited

From KSh2,526,295 to KSh3,329,885 pps

East Africa's Kenya, Tanzania & Uganda Gorillas Safari

Highlights

See the extraordinary Wildebeest Migration in season. Seek out Big 5 game viewing.

Destinations visited

From KSh911,175 to KSh1,189,475 pps

A Lion King Adventure for Kids (Value; Ages 8+)

Highlights

Stay at award-winning safari camps in stunning locations. Flights included between all camps – save travel time.

Destinations visited

From KSh776,325 to KSh1,012,595 pps

Kenya's Big Five, Ol Pejeta & Mara

Highlights

Excellent Big 5 game viewing. Day & night game drives.

Destinations visited

Enquire for pricing

Kenya’s Immersive Samburu, Lewa & Mara

Highlights

Luxury and relaxation meets culture. Visit local villages & markets.

Destinations visited

From KSh1,951,195 to KSh3,322,095 pps

Romantic Kenya's Mara & Coast

Highlights

Incredible views of the Masai Mara. Great Wildebeest Migration viewing in season.

Destinations visited

From KSh995,720 to KSh1,347,530 pps

Kenya Classic Safari

Highlights

Front row seats to the world-renowned Great Migration. Exclusive wildlife encounters.

Destinations visited

From KSh784,115 to KSh1,032,070 pps

Kenya's Two Parks Conservation, Community & Wildlife Safari

Highlights

Stay in a private conservancies to escape the crowds. Enjoy day and night game drives.

Destinations visited

From KSh928,345 pps

Kenya’s Amboseli & Masai Mara’s Hidden Gems Safari

Highlights

An urban safari starts at Manzili House . Kilimanjaro views & wildlife wonders.

Destinations visited

From KSh533,560 to KSh734,780 pps

Kenya's Best-Value Mara & Diani Beach

Highlights

A classic ‘beach-and-bush' itinerary. Visit the famed Masai Mara.

Destinations visited

From KSh1,318,970 to KSh1,785,025 pps

East Africa Year-Round Migration Safari

Highlights

First night spent on a coffee estate with Mount Meru as your backdrop. Big Five encounters at the famed Ngorongoro Crater.

Destinations visited

From KSh2,526,295 to KSh3,329,885 pps

East Africa's Kenya, Tanzania & Uganda Gorillas Safari

Highlights

See the extraordinary Wildebeest Migration in season. Seek out Big 5 game viewing.

Destinations visited

From KSh911,175 to KSh1,189,475 pps

A Lion King Adventure for Kids (Value; Ages 8+)

Highlights

Stay at award-winning safari camps in stunning locations. Flights included between all camps – save travel time.

Destinations visited

From KSh776,325 to KSh1,012,595 pps

Kenya's Big Five, Ol Pejeta & Mara

Highlights

Excellent Big 5 game viewing. Day & night game drives.

Destinations visited

Enquire for pricing

Kenya’s Immersive Samburu, Lewa & Mara

Highlights

Luxury and relaxation meets culture. Visit local villages & markets.

Destinations visited

From KSh1,951,195 to KSh3,322,095 pps

Romantic Kenya's Mara & Coast

Highlights

Incredible views of the Masai Mara. Great Wildebeest Migration viewing in season.

Destinations visited

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Try expanding your search or let one of our Experts plan this trip for you!

Enquire for pricing

Governors' Private Camp

Activities Travellers Enjoyed

Enquire for pricing

Maasai Trails Camp

From KSh86,980 to KSh142,155 pps

Entim Mara Camp

Enquire for pricing

Tawi Lodge

Activities Travellers Enjoyed

From KSh77,890 to KSh83,735 pps

Kitich Forest Camp

Activities Travellers Enjoyed

From KSh41,540 to KSh85,680 pps

Ilkeliani Camp

Activities Travellers Enjoyed

From KSh62,315 pps

Manzili House

Activities Travellers Enjoyed

From KSh133,065 to KSh171,360 pps

Borana Lodge

Activities Travellers Enjoyed

From KSh241,305 to KSh280,215 pps

Siruai Mobile Camp

Activities Travellers Enjoyed

Kenya Safaris: What Are Your Options?

Costs are impacted most by aspects such as the type of accommodation chosen, group vs private experiences, the number of non-inclusive activities you wish to do, the level of exclusivity, and the time of year. While there are certainly firm favourites, the best places to visit in Kenya largely depend on the traveller and will also impact cost – more remote locations often require charter flights and the combination of several destinations will also have an impact, as will the type of safari you embark on.

It’s worth noting that charter flights are not the only option and road transfers are also available from Nairobi. This is usually done via 4×4.

How Much Does a Kenya Safari Cost?

A Kenya safari typically costs between $1,320 and $3,400 per person per night based on double occupancy, depending on the level of luxury, season, and travel style. Mid-range fly-in safaris range from $1,430 to $1,760. For those seeking a high-end experience, luxury fly-in or 5-star safaris can reach up to $3,400 per night.

Accommodation pricing is also influenced by lodge location – especially during the Great Migration peak season – with 4-star options starting from $770 and 5-star properties going up to $2,420 per night.

Kenya Safari Tour Costs

* Please note: all the costs are guidelines only and an average for per person, per night, sharing a room in High and Low Season. They exclude international flights, visas and optional activities. Note that conservation fees, levies and permits are all subject to change. Peak or High Season generally runs over Christmas and New Year, and from about July to October.

Kenya Accommodation Costs per Night

Kenya accommodation ranges from traditional tented camps and classic colonial lodges to mobile tented camps that track the migration and luxury lodges that defy the imagination. Of course, when looking to combine with a little beach vacation, Kenya's coastline features some sensational private villas, boutique hotels, and indulgent retreats. Back to safaris, one of the factors that will impact the cost of accommodation in Kenya, aside from luxury, is location, particularly during peak Great Migration season when space is at a premium. Below is a guideline to costs for Kenya accommodation:

Kenya Accommodation Pricing

* Please note: all the costs are guidelines only and an average for per person, per night, sharing a room in High and Low Season. They exclude international flights, visas and optional activities. Note that conservation fees, levies and permits are all subject to change. Peak or High Season generally runs over Christmas and New Year, and from about July to October.

How the time of year can affect the cost of a Kenya safari

The best time to visit Kenya will greatly depend on what you are going for. If it's the Great Migration you're after, peak season is considered July and August when the Mara River crossings occur. Though it is worth noting that timings can never be considered definite and there is no way to predict when herds will tackle the crossing – which is part of what makes it so exciting! It's also a cyclical phenomenon and takes place year round so there are opportunities to spot herds at various times.

When it comes to low or shoulder season, mid-March to June and November to the end of December are less popular due to the rains. Don't discount this time as it means less crowds, lower rates, and still great game viewing. Peak season is considered January to the end of March and again from June to October. Kenya tours and safaris are available year-round so when to go is truly up to what you wish to see and experience.

Additional Costs To Consider

It's important to note that ‘all-inclusive' may not be as comprehensive as you first expect. In Africa, and on safaris, that can mean a range of things and it's always worth clarifying what is not included. One of the first things to do is consult our blog on visa free African countries for US citizens as that may tick off one of the boxes regarding associated costs already. What possible additional costs could you come across? Have a look at our list below:

Should you wish to plan your next great adventure with the help and guidance of one of our Africa Safari Experts, they will be able to advise you on all of the above and ensure each of your transfers is organised ahead of time and occurs as seamlessly as possible – just remember, in travelling, anything can happen and sometimes delays are unavoidable.

Browse Kenya Safari Tours

Tours & Safaris

Kenya’s Amboseli & Masai Mara’s Hidden Gems Safari

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Kenya's Two Parks Conservation, Community & Wildlife Safari

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Romantic Kenya's Mara & Coast

Tours & Safaris

A Lion King Adventure for Kids (Value; Ages 8+)

Tours & Safaris

Kenya’s Amboseli & Masai Mara’s Hidden Gems Safari

Tours & Safaris

Kenya's Two Parks Conservation, Community & Wildlife Safari

Tours & Safaris

Romantic Kenya's Mara & Coast

Tours & Safaris

A Lion King Adventure for Kids (Value; Ages 8+)