kenya safari specialists

Welcome to The Kenya Specialists

The Kenya Specialists specialise in Kenya luxury safaris and honeymoons, drawing on years of experience to help you design your ultimate luxury safari to Kenya . In the course of the best part of a decade, we have endeavoured to visit every hotel, eat at every restaurant, safari in every region and swim in every body of water in Kenya, in the name of research!

The Kenya Specialists are experts at tailoring Kenya luxury safaris to our clients, rather than the other way round.

As one of the most popular countries in Africa and the world, a luxury Kenya safari has an absolute wealth of options to choose from. In this web site we endeavour to cover all the different angles from which to come at a safari to Kenya... the family safaris and the Kenya honeymoon amongst others.

Featuring a whole myriad of options, a Kenya safari ranks amongst one of the top experiences in the world and, with over 40 years of experience under its belt, the country and its people are amongst some of the most friendly and professional in both Africa and the rest of the globe.

The main destination that will draw the attention, is, of course, the infamous Masai Mara National Reserve , located on the southern edge of the country, on the border with Tanzania. Featuring one of nature's most famous mass migrations, the wildebeest herds of East Africa are truly a delight. Featuring multiple options to choose from from family friendly private houses, to camps located right on crossing points to private, romantic tented camps.

Second to the Mara, there are plenty of luxury safari options to choose from. Be it the multiple activities that are possible in the private concessions in the Laikipia Plateau , or the frontier parks of the north such as Samburu and Shaba National Park.

Please see some pointers to get you started but we can't underline enough that the very best way to get started to to either give us a call or Contact us

The Kenya Specialists are experts at tailoring luxury Kenya safaris to our clients, rather than the other way round.

As one of the most popular countries in Africa and the world, Kenya safari has an absolute wealth of options to choose from. In this web site we endeavour to cover all the different angles from which to come at a safari to Kenya... the family safaris and the Kenya honeymoon amongst others.

Second to the Mara, there are plenty of safari options to choose from. Be it the multiple activities that are possible in the private concessions in the Laikipia Plateau , or the frontier parks of the north such as Samburu and Shaba National Park.

When is best to go to the Masai Mara?

The beauty of the Masai Mara is that it is a year-round destination, with plentiful resident game situated in the national reserve and the greater conservancies. However many visitors come for the wildebeest migration and the best time to visit the Masai Mara for this famous spectacle is between July and November. Although we have an understanding of the annual movement of the herds, the dates will differ every year due to varying rainfall patterns (the herds will move on quicker if the rains come early, and stay longer if the rains are late).

With wildebeest and zebra in their thousands, and other species of animals that often tag along, speckled across the reserve, predators such as the cats are ready awaiting their next meal. It is a very exciting time to visit… although this does attract high numbers of visitors and so it can get quite busy. The Greater Mara Conservancies , located further from the national reserve on areas of private land, offers a quieter alternative, and still home high game concentrations to enjoy.

For more information please follow this link: http://www.thekenyaspecialists.com/where-to-go/the-masai-mara

Is this your first safari?

A Kenya luxury safari is quite often featured on a bucket list. Karen Blixen's Out of Africa, as with many other films and books, has romanticised the continent, and rightly so! Whilst the Masai Mara homes this picturesque landscape, not all safari destinations offer vast open plains, and instead offer dramatic rising plateaus, rift valleys, riverine forests and many more. As well as the topography, the climate, seasonality and logistics all play a big part in choosing the perfect destination for your first safari.

There are quite a few different options and logistics involved in a safari. A ‘fly in’ safari means that you are flown, in a small Cessna caravan plane, into the park and met on arrival at the bush airstrip. During your stay at camp, all game viewing activities is done by the camps local guides and vehicles on a shared basis. Some destinations, especially when combined, are best done by a driving itinerary because of their location and proximity to one another. Although this can save you the flight of an internal flight, it does add to the amount of time you are traveling.

Climate is another important factor when considering a first safari. Although the parks in Kenya vary with seasonality and game patterns, East Africa generally share the same climate. April and May is the rainy season and most of the camps take the opportunity to close and undergo renovations so we usually recommend avoiding this time to travel. The months between June and October are deemed the best time to go on safari, as you can enjoy sunny, blue skies with almost no rain… but this also means that they are the busiest months, especially in the Masai Mara as the wildebeest are present in these months. November marks the start of the short rains, however it’s difficult to predict when exactly it will start and the rains are very brief.

For more information please follow this link: http://www.thekenyaspecialists.com/when-to-go/when-to-go-to-kenya

Which destination in Kenya is best for me?

As arguably, the most diverse countries in Africa, deciding which national park to head to for a safari in Kenya is a tough decision… as they are all pretty spectacular! There are a couple of questions that will help as a starting point. Do you want to see the wildebeest migration? Do you want to do walking safaris? Are you travelling in a family, in a group or on your honeymoon? How long do you have to travel? Are you adventurous and wanting to do activities such as horse and camel riding?

If you are looking for a short safari to get your fix of wildlife, the Masai Mara is the definitely the place to head to. Camps such as Governor's Camp , Rekero Camp and Naibor Camp are sat inside the reserve and are perfect for those looking for an earthy safari experience in the heart of the game. Camps located in the conservancies, such as Elephant Pepper , Richard's Camp and Saruni Mara allow guests to do activities, like walking safaris, night drives and cultural visits, which are all activities that the camps inside the reserve are not able to do.

The Laikipia Plateau offers a more ‘active’ safari. Horse and camel safaris, bush walks and hikes, fly camping and mountain biking are among some of the activities that the camps offer, and guests can do as much or as little as they like. This is a great destination for families and children especially as some of the camps, such as Loisaba Starbeds , provide memorable accommodation to sleep under the stars.

For more information on the different destinations in Kenya, please visit http://www.thekenyaspecialists.com/where-to-go

How much does a Luxury Kenya safari cost?

There is no simple answer to this question, but one you can soon gauge once you have had a quote or two. The cost of a Kenya safari will depend on many things including the destination you head to, the time of year you go and the camps or properties you stay in.

The nightly cost of a camp on safari may initially seem expensive, especially if this is your first safari, but the price usually includes all meals (full board basis), accommodation, all game viewing activities, park and concession fees, laundry services and transfers. Many of the camps also offer special offers throughout the year, such as 4 nights for the price of 3, honeymoon discounts, or low season rates in high season dates, which are things we keep a close eye on when putting together your itinerary! Contact us for a quote now!

To see our luxury Kenya safari itineraries please visit http://www.thekenyaspecialists.com/itineraries

YOUR PROTECTION - OUR ATOL BOND

We are fully bonded with ATOL so your money is safe!

This means that we have been through a vetting process with the Civil Aviation Authority who have deemed us reliable and reputable.

All monies paid by you for the air holiday package shown [or flights if appropriate] are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 10286 . For more information see our booking terms and conditions OR go to their web site at http://www.caa.co.uk/application.aspx?catid=490&pagetype=65&appid=2 and, if you would like to check on us then put in our registered number, 10286, into their finder service... (you just need the number)

All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. But ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services listed on this website. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all the parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will not be ATOL protected.

Please see our terms and conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate or ask any of our consultants who are fully versed on the ins and outs of the bonding scheme.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

• Australian Dollars
• British Pounds
• Canadian Dollars
• Namibian Dollars
• New Zealand Dollars
• South African Rands
• Swiss Francs
• U.S. Dollars

Talk to an expert 1-800-242-2434 Lines open now

Kenya invented the safari: with its spectacular wildlife, cultural diversity and breathtaking landscapes, this is an utterly dazzling destination.

“Wonderful, but very hard to describe”: that was one recent traveller’s summary of an Expert Africa safari in Kenya, his first visit to Africa. “The impact is emotional and spiritual as well as literal. Yes, there are many animals and birds and these are real wild creatures in their natural habitat, but it is so much more than that. I will never forget this trip. It was one of the great experiences of my life.” With the Indian Ocean lapping its coral-fringed coast and Mount Kenya rising from the middle of its extraordinarily beautiful natural environment, Kenya is one of Africa’s most rewarding countries to explore. The remarkably diverse scenery, the rich variety of its wildlife and its ever-stimulating social tapestry – from traditionally dressed Maasai herders on the plains to sarong-wrapped Swahili fishermen on the coast – could keep you enthralled for months. Think of Kenya like the Maasai do – as a land formed especially for them by God. Imagine he pulled the land up in the middle – that’s Mount Kenya, with its glacier-covered peaks, dominating the highlands – then tore the east and west apart leaving the great trough of the Rift Valley with its lakes. The Maasai Mara lies in the southwest and its fabled grasslands can reveal scenes that sometimes look like a children’s animal wall frieze, as a dozen or more species of megafauna – from elephants to lions and from buffalos to zebras – mingle on the plains in front of your camera. On the Kenya coast you could be in a different country, with mosques and palm trees, crystal-blue sea and a coral reef. Wherever your trip takes you, Kenya is hard to beat as a country to thrill and impress, whether you’ve been on safari before or it's your first visit to Africa.

Kenya's top safari and holiday destinations

Kenya's key areas for visitors are spread across the country.

In the southwest, bordering the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, lie the Maasai Mara National Reserve and the Maasai Mara Conservancies . This is the land of the Great Migration .

North of Mount Kenya lies Kenya's second best wildlife region, the plateaux and wild bush lands of Laikipia , where you can see hunting dogs and black leopards. Laikipia is also Kenya's rhino stronghold, with all three African species present.

To the east lies Meru National Park , where a tiny handful of camps and lodges in a huge wilderness make for a magical safari.

Further north is the Samburu National Reserve , with its dry-country mammals including reticulated giraffe, gerenuk and Grevy's zebra, and beyond that the deserts and semi-deserts of Northern Kenya , and the largest desert lake in the world, Lake Turkana.

In southern Kenya, head to Amboseli for those fabled views of Kilimanjaro framing "big tusker" elephants, or to Tsavo East for giant landscapes and baobabs or Tsavo West for hilly scenery and a plethora of wildlife – though you may have to look harder for it.

Finally, Kenya's coast is everything you could wish for in a tropical beach - with the bonus of a fascinating cultural tapestry.

Kenya Coast

32 places to stay

Kenya’s coast is an alluring region and – relatively – little developed. As well as beautiful beaches and a coral reef, it has fascinating historical sites and forest safari areas.

Mara Conservancies

29 places to stay

The wildlife-rich private conservancies are the Maasai-owned lands outside the national reserve. They tend to be much less busy than the reserve, but no less rewarding.

26 places to stay

Laikipia is an extensive region of large ranches and rolling, semi-arid savanna and bush country that is growing in importance for wildlife conservation and adventurous and luxury safaris.

21 places to stay

Capital of Kenya and East Africa’s biggest city, Nairobi has large hanty towns and wealthy suburbs, as well as a many green spaces, including the magnificent Nairobi National Park.

Maasai Mara

The Maasai Mara is the northern extension of the Serengeti-Mara eco-system. Together with the Mara conservancies outside the public reserve, this is Kenya’s most wildlife-rich region.

Northern Kenya

10 places to stay

Northern Kenya – split by giant Lake Turkana – is one of the country's best regions for cultural contact, and the forest-cloaked mountains have local micro-climates and much wildlife.

Amboseli & Chyulu Hills

7 places to stay

This region encompasses one of Kenya's most iconic national parks and a little known district of volcanic hills topped with misty cloud forest.

Rift Valley

4 places to stay

Most visitors take in the Great Rift Valley – embellished by a string of beautiful lakes – during the course of a road safari. It's also possible to use one or two airstrips for a fly-in safari.

2 places to stay

This extensive park of volcanic landscapes encompasses rolling savannah, woodland and streams, and the magnetic attraction of Mzima Springs.

3 places to stay

This rejuvenated national park on the well-watered side of Mount Kenya has excellent game-watching, Kenya's best KWS-run rhino sanctuary, and barely a handful of camps and lodges.

5 places to stay

This richly rewarding dry-country ecosystem depends on the seasonal Ewaso Nyiro River to support its elephants and many other species.

The largest park in Kenya is a vast area of dry bush, inhabited by huge herds of brick-red elephants, and dramatically cut through by the Galana River.

Our top ten Kenya safaris and holidays

Every one of Expert Africa's tailor-made itineraries is as individual as the traveller undertaking it.

The itineraries we have put together here are just examples of what is possible, with costs and details included. They are not set plans, or indeed set in stone at all. You can pick any combination of camps and lodges that is logistically possible, and start your trip on any date you like, subject to availability. See all 24 Kenya safari ideas here .

Most of our trips in Kenya are based around Fly-in Safaris , on which you fly by scheduled light aircraft between the different areas on your trip, typically staying for a few days at a camp or lodge in each place, and exploring the area in an open safari vehicle, guided by a seasoned driver-guide based at the camp, accompanied on daily safaris ("game drives") by other guests staying at the camp.

On a Guided Safari , you’ll travel by private closed safari vehicle, with a pop-top roof and sliding windows, led by the same driver-guide all the way.

Our Beach Holidays showcase ideas for stays along the Kenya coast's beautiful beaches.

Call Expert Africa now to speak to a Kenya expert who can address your questions and craft a trip for you that’s perfectly tailored for you.

Black Kite Fly-in Safari

10 days • 4 locations NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

Explore Kenya in-depth with visits to Nairobi and Meru national parks, the Mara Conservancies and Amboseli. Nestled in remoter regions, four camps provide fantastic access to rich game, a range of activities and beautifully diverse landscapes.

US$10,140 - US$12,240 per person

Gabar Goshawk Fly-in Safari

Experience Amboseli, the Maasai Mara ecosystem and Laikipia during this economically priced safari. Two simple camps offer adventure before a stopover in Nairobi and a final stay in the charming, wildlife-rich Il Ngwesi Eco-Lodge.

US$5,800 - US$6,090 per person

Elephant Safari

10 days • 3 locations NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

This example of a mid-range Kenya safari and beach trip explores the wildlife of Tsavo West's volcanic plains and woodlands, Tsavo East's immense plains and the white-sand beaches and lush environment of Diani Beach.

US$5,110 - US$5,760 per person

De Brazza Monkey Fly-in Safari

9 days • 3 locations NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

Enjoy a range of activities in the remote wilderness of northern Kenya before exploring the wildlife-rich plains of the Mara ecosystem. Private vehicles and guides heighten the personalisation of this highly immersive safari.

US$12,310 - US$16,320 per person

Hamerkop Fly-In Safari

8 days • 2 locations NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

Different wildlife, contrasting camps and a whole host of activities, this is a safari for those wanting to get out and about and not just sit in a vehicle.

US$6,350 - US$10,960 per person

Rothschild Giraffe Safari

8 days • 3 locations NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

A example of a luxury Kenyan safari, starting at the iconic Giraffe Manor before fabulous stays on the spectacular Solio Reserve and Sala’s Camp in a remote corner of the Maasai Mara.

US$11,720 - US$16,510 per person

Big Cat Fly-in Safari

Combining two of Kenya’s best wildlife-viewing areas, this slow-paced safari to the Lewa Conservancy and Maasai Mara guarantees iconic wildlife. The long-established, well-rated camps are great value, too.

US$5,010 - US$8,190 per person

Golden Jackal Fly-in Safari

A contrasting safari of a lodge and a tented camp, with action-packed activities in Laikipia and wildlife-filled game drives in the Maasai Mara, offers a consistently high-quality experience.

US$9,730 - US$13,080 per person

Lanner Falcon Fly-In Safari

Three sister camps offer access to wonderfully remote regions across northern Kenya and the Maasai Mara ecosystem. Enjoy an exclusive safari experience focused on great wildlife, superb guiding and considerable comfort, with a range of activities.

US$6,620 - US$8,400 per person

African Finfoot Fly-in Safari

7 days • 3 locations NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

After a unique start in Nairobi National Park, classic, luxurious camps combine for a high-end and exclusive safari in fantastic wildlife destinations.

US$9,900 - US$16,050 per person

View all holidays

Expert Africa's 10 most recent Kenya trip reviews

Feedback from Expert Africa's thousands of travellers is extremely important to us.

The reviews they send us are a real help to future travellers planning their trips. The feedback helps us stay up to date with changes to the camps and lodges we book, and it's also very valuable to our partners across Africa who appreciate that it is guaranteed genuine. It is often very constructive for the management of their properties and guiding operations.

All our Kenya trip reviews are published in full without any edits by Expert Africa. See all 596 Kenya safaris reviews here , or click on a card below to read one of our ten most recent reviews in full.

Arrived 29 Feb 2024, 10 nights

"Perfect Kicheche camps "

Overall rating: Excellent

Arrived 11 Mar 2024, 19 nights

"My Mar 2024 trip"

Arrived 22 Mar 2024, 9 nights

Arrived 27 Feb 2024, 6 nights

"My Feb 2024 trip to Lewa and Naboisho"

Arrived 13 Mar 2024, 10 nights

"March 2024 - Lewa and Maasai Mara"

Arrived 26 Feb 2024, 7 nights

"My Feb 2024 trip"

Arrived 24 Jan 2024, 26 nights

"My Jan 2024 trip"

Arrived 5 Feb 2024, 15 nights

Arrived 15 Feb 2024, 14 nights

Overall rating: Average

See all Kenya reviews

Our travellers' wildlife sightings across Kenya

When travelling through Kenya, many of our travellers document their wildlife encounters – be they of lions, leopards or black rhinos – and generously share their records with us.

This "citizen science" gives us a unique picture of the distribution of species, enlightening you on where you have the best chance of seeing a particular species during a Kenya safari ( Learn about this survey's methodology .)

The percentages below signify the average probability of a safari-goer seeing various large mammals where they naturally occur. Note that species with limited distributions, such as the black rhino, can attain high scores in the regions where they reside. For further insights into a specific species, click on its picture below and follow the link in the pop-up window.

For a broader perspective on Kenya's wildlife sightings, explore our interactive wildlife map of Kenya showing the prime locations for encountering various species.

99% success

98% success

93% success

92% success

91% success

89% success

83% success

81% success

79% success

77% success

62% success

56% success

53% success

37% success

14% success

11% success

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings in Kenya

The reports our travellers send us of their large mammal sightings can be very useful in assessing the best camps and lodges for seeing some of Kenya's key wildlife .

Whether you're looking for cheetahs , lions , wild dogs , or eastern black rhinos – or any one of a score of other species – our data-driven maps highlight the most likely areas to see each animal.

If you'd like to see a map showing the top camps and lodges for a specific mammal, click on the species below.

Panthera leo

Lions are at the top of the food chain and also most safari wish-lists, but with their numbers falling fast, any encounter with these majestic apex predators always feels like a privilege.

81% SUCCESS

2,964 sightings from 3,641 observations

Where to see lion in Kenya

Panthera pardus

The most numerous of Africa’s big cats, leopard occur across many habitats, from wild tracts to populated areas. Their grace and their elusive nature make them a unique safari drawcard.

47% SUCCESS

1,889 sightings from 4,029 observations

Where to see leopard in Kenya

Acinonyx jubatus

The cheetah is the fastest land animal and the only cat that hunts by pure speed. Found largely in open grasslands, its slim, elegant form is today an increasingly rare sight.

33% SUCCESS

1,028 sightings from 3,085 observations

Where to see cheetah in Kenya

Syncerus caffer

One of the ‘Big Five’, buffalo earned a fearsome reputation in hunters’ tales. By contrast, big herds of these sociable bovids are placid, but mount formidable defences against predators.

83% SUCCESS

2,504 sightings from 3,021 observations

Where to see buffalo in Kenya

Lycaon pictus

African wild dogs are among the continent’s most compelling animals. Much misunderstood, these rare, tie-dyed canids are amazingly efficient hunters with a fascinating social life.

31% SUCCESS

843 sightings from 2,707 observations

Where to see wild dog in Kenya

Spotted Hyena

Crocuta crocuta

The spotted hyena may be thought of as ‘ugly’ and ‘cowardly’. In fact, this versatile and intelligent carnivore is one of Africa’s most fascinating and warrants attention on any safari.

55% SUCCESS

2,127 sightings from 3,841 observations

Where to see spotted hyena in Kenya

Striped Hyena

Hyaena hyaena

The striped hyena is the most widespread of the world’s hyenas, but absent from southern Africa. A rarely-seen nocturnal scavenger, it is shyer and more solitary than its spotted cousin.

14% SUCCESS

122 sightings from 901 observations

Where to see striped hyena in Kenya

Loxodonta africana

By far the biggest of the so-called Big Five – indeed, the largest land animal on the planet – the elephant shapes the very landscape it inhabits and is a defining presence on any safari.

91% SUCCESS

3,537 sightings from 3,891 observations

Where to see elephant in Kenya

Black Rhino

Diceros bicornis

The black rhino is the smaller and rarer of Africa’s two rhino species but has the more fearsome reputation. Shy and heavily persecuted, it tends to stick to cover.

615 sightings from 1,995 observations

Where to see black rhino in Kenya

White Rhino

Ceratotherium simum

The white rhino is the largest and most numerous of the world’s five rhinoceros species. They are larger, easier to see and generally more approachable than the black rhino.

44% SUCCESS

481 sightings from 1,090 observations

Where to see white rhino in Kenya

Taurotragus oryx

Africa’s largest antelope, eland are culturally important from prehistoric rock art to modern game farms. Though widespread, they are also shy so sightings are uncommon and often fleeting.

49% SUCCESS

1,438 sightings from 2,916 observations

Where to see eland in Kenya

Litocranius walleri

With its slender frame and extraordinarily long neck, this unmistakable East African antelope resembles an attenuated impala and often stands on its back legs browse high shrubs.

76% SUCCESS

89 sightings from 117 observations

Where to see gerenuk in Kenya

Giraffa camelopardalis

The world’s tallest land mammal, giraffes are herbivores which have evolved many unique adaptations. Their iconic outlines tower above the bush in many of Africa’s wildlife areas.

86% SUCCESS

3,413 sightings from 3,953 observations

Where to see giraffe in Kenya

Oryx are impressive antelopes, with a powerful physique and elegant markings set off by rapier-like horns. They cut a distinctive dash in some of Africa’s harshest landscapes.

70% SUCCESS

1,280 sightings from 1,839 observations

Where to see oryx in Kenya

Hippopotamus amphibius

The territorial calls of the hippo create a signature soundtrack to Africa’s rivers & wetlands. Despite an endearing smile, this aquatic herbivore has a notoriously aggressive disposition.

89% SUCCESS

2,591 sightings from 2,910 observations

Where to see hippo in Kenya

Sable antelope

Hippotragus niger

Perhaps Africa’s most beautiful antelope, sable are renowned for their combative nature, even holding off lions. Shy and restricted in range, sightings of sable are always special.

22% SUCCESS

436 sightings from 1,954 observations

Where to see sable antelope in Kenya

Connochaetes sp.

Superficially bovine in appearance, wildebeests are known for their spectacular migrations sometimes in huge numbers. These resilient animals are some of Africa’s most successful herbivores.

68% SUCCESS

2,411 sightings from 3,557 observations

Where to see wildebeest in Kenya

The zebra is a quintessential African animal: the horse in stripy pyjamas at the end of every child’s A–Z. There are three species, of which the plains zebra is much the most common.

84% SUCCESS

3,723 sightings from 4,412 observations

Where to see zebra in Kenya

Orycteropus afer

The aardvark is one of Africa’s most bizarre and enigmatic animals. A shy, nocturnal termite-eater, signs of its presence may be scattered about the bush whilst sightings remain elusive.

67 sightings from 3,241 observations

Where to see aardvark in Kenya

Smutsia sp.

Pangolins appear to be more pine cone than animal in their unique armoury of scales. These nocturnal, ant-eating oddities are not only highly elusive but also increasingly rare.

54 sightings from 3,238 observations

Where to see pangolin in Kenya

When to go to Kenya

The earths's climate crisis is making the weather in Kenya increasingly unpredictable. Our month-by-month guide helps you weigh up the options based on the weather you're most likely to get.

Do bear in mind, however, that climate charts apply specifically to the town in question, and not to larger regions or the whole country. And they are based on the annual measurements taken, in the case of Kenya, over roughly the last century. Kenya's weather in the 1950s, was more predictable and regular than it is today.

While the country lies on the equator, temperatures are determined much more by altitude than by season, with the coast and everywhere below around 1000 metres above sea level (about 3,300ft) being hot in the day time and very warm at night all year round. At high altitudes, it may rain at almost any time of year. The northern deserts are largely dry all the time. Western Kenya, including the Maasai Mara region , has a scattered rainfall pattern influenced by Lake Victoria, while the eastern half of the country, and especially the coast , are largely controlled by the Indian Ocean’s monsoon winds – the dry northeast monsoon ( kaskazi ) blowing in from November to March or April and the moist southeast monsoon ( kusi ) blowing in from May to October. The kusi normally brings the heaviest rains to the coast in May and June. As these weather systems move inland, they bring rain to the east facing highlands, but the western slopes can experience a rain shadow effect and much drier conditions.

Broadly, the seasons that apply to most of the safari areas are: a warm, mostly dry season from January to March, getting increasingly humid before the rains break; then warm and wet from April to June (the “long rains” ); slightly less warm and mostly dry from July to October (Nairobians call the relatively cool, cloudy July-August period "winter" , thought it's barely wintry in a sense that people from higher latitudes would recognise; and then warm and wet for a few weeks in November and early December – a period called the "short rains” , which typically fizzle out before Christmas, but can sometimes be prolonged into early January.

Kenya in January

Clear, hot days and warm nights make this high season a popular time for safaris and it’s also good for diving and snorkelling as water clarity is excellent and gets better as the dry season progresses. Most lodges and tented camps treat January after the New Year week is over, as mid-season, making it a good compromise in terms of value for money with reasonably reliable, dry weather and some greenery left in the landscape. Expert Africa bases its description of climate and weather in January, like the other months of the year, on the climate records of roughly the last 100 years, and it's fair to say that the weather and seasons since the beginning of this century have been highly irregular and unpredictable.

• On average, January is the second driest month of the year
• Elephants dig waterholes in the dry riverbed in the Samburu reserve.
• Wildebeest and many antelope have their calving season, to February.
• Migrant birds are seen in huge numbers, especially in the Rift Valley.
• Sea water clarity around the coral reefs generally good.

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in January

Kenya in February

With the short dry season well established, the grass grazed down and wildlife gathering close to water points, this is still a good time for a safari. Good water clarity in the Indian Ocean's coastal waters makes for excellent diving and snorkelling conditions. Expert Africa bases its description of climate and weather in February, like the other months of the year, on the climate records of roughly the last 100 years, and it's fair to say that the weather and seasons since the beginning of this century have been highly irregular and unpredictable.

• On average, February is the driest month of the year.
• It’s sometimes possible to swim with whale sharks at Diani Beach.
• Migrant birds are still seen everywhere, especially near water.
• This is usually peak calving season for wildebeest and many antelopes.
• This month is often the hottest of the year, especially on the coast.

A very good time to visit

Weather in February

Kenya in March

Hot, increasingly humid weather – with good diving and snorkelling conditions at the start of the month – gives way to rains and lower accommodation costs. Expert Africa bases its description of climate and weather in March, like the other months of the year, on the climate records of roughly the last 100 years, and predicting the seasons since the beginning of this century has been difficult. March is the month when – traditionally – intensely hot conditions build up until a cloudburst finally happens at the end of the month or in early April, to relieve the humidity. As ever, regional variations across the country can greatly impact on visitors' experiences.

• Sea-water clarity is best for diving before the long rains start.
• Visitor numbers are low, though the Easter holidays can be busier.
• Night skies can be scintillatingly clear in early March.
• Cropped down savannah grasses can make it easier to see the wildlife.
• Temperartures climb high, especially at lower elevations.

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

Kenya in April

April sees the full onset of the southeast monsoon wind or kusi, which heralds the long rains. Temperatures drop soon after the rains are established and you’ll often have facilities largely to yourself in this more affordable low season, sometimes known as the "green season". The bush quickly springs to life, with greenery sprouting almost before your eyes. While you're likely to get a fair number of heavy showers, the breaks in the rain can yield sparklingly clear conditions. With the dust settled and bright sun piercing the clouds, conditions can be sublime for photography, especially first thing in the morning or in the late afternoon with another storm brewing. You may be lucky, or you may find conditions very wet and muddy.

• A wet month, the coast often gets more than 300mm (12in) of rain.
• Sunny spells can provide great light for photography.
• Buffalo and zebra calving season often happens in this month.
• Baby crocodiles hatch, for example on Central Island in Lake Turkana.
• Palearctic migrant birds gather to fly north to breeding grounds.

A time to avoid if possible

Weather in April

Kenya in May

While game viewing can be trickier as vegetation runs riot, between the cloudbursts the colours and light are great for photography at this time of year. Expert Africa bases its description of climate and weather in May, like the other months of the year, on the climate records of roughly the last 100 years, and while it's reasonable to expect heavy rains in many parts during this month, especially on the coast, the rains don't always come evenly or in some areas come at all. In an El Niño year, the so-called long rains that normally are established across much of the country by May can be meagre, to the despair of farmers. On the other hand in a La Niña year, the long rains can bring floods. On the coast, the monsoon winds make the climate much more predictable, with heavy rains common throughout this month.

• Frogs breed in the ponds in the Arabuko Sokoke Forest near Watamu.
• Wildebeest, impala and other grazers are in rut (the breeding season).
• Kilimanjaro looks its best as heavy rain falls as snow on the summit.
• There's a sharp peek of rainfall on the coast with many rainy days.
• Accommodation prices are uniformly low, while some camps close.

Weather in May

Kenya in June

The rains give way to cloudy, cooler weather, often making for comfortable conditions by the end of the month, especially in the highlands. Starting from mid-June or the beginning of July and running until the end of October, this is the high season, and accordingly has higher accommodation rates and – at least until early September – higher numbers of visitors. While the early part of June can often be rainy on the coast, it can be a great time to go on safari, with fresh greenery, many young animals and good photographic conditions with clear air.

• The Taru Desert, inland from the coast, is carpeted with flowers.
• The Lake Turkana Cultural Festival is held in Loiyangalani.
• Madaraka Day (commemorating self rule) is 1 June.
• The annual Lewa marathon runs a course through the wildlife.
• The Diani Rules "sports" event rips up the rulebook at Diani Beach.

Weather in June

Kenya in July

Kenya’s “winter" season sets in (winter is a misnomer but locals feel the change), and the highlands can be rather grey. Skies are often cloudy and the days can be surprisingly cool, with an average daytime high in many highland safari areas of 15-20°C and night-time temperatures dropping below 10°C in Nairobi and the highlands. Lower parts of the country and the coast are usually warm and dry, typically reaching highs of around 25°C with lows in the high teens. As this is the start of the high season, coinciding with the usual arrival of the wildebeest migration in the Maasai Mara, July is a busy month. Ask your Expert Africa specialist to advise on how to avoid the crowds, which is not that difficult to do.

• The wildebeest migration usually reaches the Maasai Mara in July.
• Simbi Lake (Kisumu) and Crater Lake (Naivasha) can attract flamingoes.
• Watersports start to pick up and some surfing is possible at Malindi.
• Afternoon thunderstorms are a common feature in the Maasai Mara.
• The sea can be choppy along the coast, making diving difficult.

Weather in July

Kenya in August

The Great Migration fills the plains of the Maasai Mara, and school’s out, so the park roads are full of tourists – ask your Expert Africa specialist for advice on crowd avoidance tactics. Choose a private conservancy rather than a public national park or national reserve for quieter conditions. Like July, August is generally mild and relatively dry in the safari areas, but it can be very chilly in the highlands, even in the middle of the day, and hail occasionally falls above altitudes of around 2,400m (8,000ft). Nairobi can be disappointingly overcast, with low cloud.

• Apart from Christmas holidays, this is the busiest month of the year.
• Late August sees peak wildebeest drama at the Mara River crossings.
• Coastal winds are good for kite- and wind-surfing.
• Few mosquitoes are around at this generally dry time of year.
• The annual Camel Derby takes place in the Samburu capital, Maralal.

Weather in August

Kenya in September

The skies clearing of cloud signals the start of hot, dry weather with little chance of rain – and, after the first few days of the month, far fewer visitors – making the latter part of September a good time for a quieter safari. While early September is often good for dramatic migration crossings along the Mara River, you might consider deliberately postponing your trip until later in the month, when the migration can still be very impressive and visitor numbers fewer. If tourist surges are somewhat predictable, however, the patterns of the wildebeest migration are more volatile, and like all of Expert Africa's climate and weather assessments, they are based on accumulated years of experience rather than guaranteed certainty.

• This is still high season, with prices to match.
• Many river crossings take place on the Mara river in both directions.
• Natural bush fires flush out insects and small animals for predators.
• The Rift Valley Music Festival takes place by Lake Naivasha.
• With school holidays over by early September, late-month is quieter.

Weather in September

Kenya in October

Still hot, mostly dry and not too busy, this is many people’s preferred month for a safari, and it’s also good for diving and snorkelling. The wildebeest and zebra herds of the great migration are often still to be seen, though in dwindling numbers. The swamps of Amboseli attract thirsty wildlife including large herds of elephants. While we wouldn't expect much rain across most of the country this month, the climate has become so unpredictable that you can never say never, and the possibiity of the short rains – usually associated with November to mid-December, starting early, can't be discounted.

• This month sees the tail end of the great migration in the Mara.
• Palearctic migrant birds start to arrive, staying until March.
• Turtle nests hatch at Watamu, until November.
• Amboseli elephants focus on the swamps for their daily water.
• The Indian Ocean monsoon winds turn from southeast to northeast.

Weather in October

Kenya in November

The northeast monsoon wind or kaskazi heralds the start of the “short rains", usually some time in the second half of the month. From November to mid-December, this is the low season, and accordingly has lower accommodation rates and lower visitor numbers. Across most of the country you can expect warm, somewhat cloudy weather, with occasional heavy showers and localised flooding. Expert Africa bases its description of the climate in November, like the other months of the year, on the records of roughly the last 100 years, and it's fair to say that the seasons since the beginning of this century have been highly irregular and unpredictable: some years the short rains don't come at all, or don't reach every part of the country. In an El Niño year, the November short rains can be very heavy, but in a La Niña year, they can fail completely.

• Swimming with dolphins in Lamu can be done from now until April.
• Birders gather at Ngulia in Tsavo West to ring Palearctic migrants.
• The Lamu Cultural Festival takes over the town and Lamu Creek.
• Agricultural shows often take place regional market towns.
• This is low season, so camps can be great value, with special offers.

Weather in November

Kenya in December

In a typical December, the rains usually finish by middle of the month, leaving the landscape looking its best, under clear blue skies, and heralding the start of the second peak tourist season from around 20 December to the first week of January. Our assessment of the likely weather in December, like the other months of the year, is based on climate records, and it's fair to say that the seasons since the beginning of this century have been highly irregular and unpredictable. Christmas can sometimes be wet, but most years the rains have finished a week or two earlier, with the festive season ushering in the perfect combination of clear skies and sunshine by day and starry nights.

• Christmas and New Year are busy, with the lodges and camps full.
• Rates are highest after 24 Dec, with supplements on public holidays.
• Republic Day and Independence day are celebrated on 12 December.
• Good kite- and wind-surfing restarts, with strong northeasterly winds.
• Mango season begins, providing excitement for primates and elephants.

Weather in December

Country guide

A rough guide to Kenya

This short guide includes some useful practical and background information about the country. If you book your Kenya trip with Expert Africa, we’ll send you a free copy of The Rough Guide to Kenya , a detailed travel guide written by Expert Africa’s East Africa Manager, Richard Trillo.

Where to go on a first visit

The options can seem overwhelming: with so many parks, reserves and conservancies, where to go on a first visit? Firstly, we’d strongly recommend including the famous Maasai Mara . At any time of year, the lands around the meandering Mara River host abundant wildlife and whether you’re watching a pride of lions hunting, a herd of elephants grazing in the marsh or hyenas squabbling with vultures over the carcass of a buffalo, you are conscious all the time of being in a realm apart, a human visitor to a landscape owned by the animals. Yes, the publicly accessible Maasai Mara National Reserve gets very busy, especially during holiday periods and when the wildebeest migration is on. There’s a new hard surfaced road from Nairobi which makes access easy for weekenders too. However, the former Maasai grazing lands around the reserve have mostly been converted to very successful wildlife conservancies, managed by the local community in association with small, high quality safari camp owners, and these Maasai Mara Conservancies are well worth considering if you want to avoid the crowds. The other region we very often recommend as a contrast with the Mara is Laikipia , the upland former ranches and hills northwest of Mount Kenya. Laikipia now largely consists of a patchwork of highly successful wildlife conservancies, providing extensive sanctuary to rhinos, wild dogs, leopards and most of the other megafauna of the East African plains and bush. If you want to include some beach time, Kenya's Indian Ocean coast , fringed by coral reefs, is the real deal – with the bonus of rewarding historical discoveries to be made in the old cities of Mombasa and Lamu, and the ruins of Gedi, near Watamu.

Local flight transfers

The workhorse of Kenya’s local aviation is the Cessna Caravan . It’s a turboprop plane, typically seating 9-12 passengers, plus the pilot and co-pilot. If you’re not used to flying in unpressurised light aircraft the experience can either be exhilarating or a little unexpected at first. Be prepared for the plane to be gently buffeted by wind and thermals and to drop into bush airstrips more than once in the course of your journey. Our scheduled airline partners strive to be reliable, but the final route and timings of any particular service are usually only settled the day before, when camps are notified of arrival and departure times.

Engaging with local culture

Village visits are offered as a standard activity or excursion by many safari camps, especially in the Maasai and Samburu traditional areas, often calling at a local compound – a circle of small houses – where the camp staff and guides have family contacts, during the course of a morning or afternoon game drive. You are normally expected to make a modest cash contribution, or to buy some souvenirs. These visits, which often include a few minutes inside a smoky hut built of straw and dried cow-dung, can be illuminating and rewarding, or sometimes can feel a little contrived (you only have to imagine the scenario in reverse). Villagers will sometimes put on a little dance show. Otherwise, you are likely to have the most rewarding encounters with local culture simply in conversation with your guide or camp staff: their life stories can be unforgettable.

Kenyan food and drink

Most Kenyans breakfast on the national staples of sweet, milky tea and white bread and margarine, with ugali (a stiff, polenta-like corn mash) usually eaten as the main meal of the day, with a little sauce or relish and green-leaf vegetables to liven it up. Traditionally, celebratory meals invariably focus around the consumption of huge quantities of meat . Roast meat ( nyama choma with ugali is the closest to a true national dish, but only the Swahili coast has a proper cuisine, based around the spices and ingredients of the Indian Ocean, Middle East and India. Not surprisingly, perhaps, most of the dishes you’ll be served in hotels and luxury safari camps will be quite familiar. Soups, bread rolls, tasty salads and fruit bowls (often grown in an organic kitchen garden at the camp itself), roast and stewed beef, pork, lamb and chicken, familiar vegetables, occasional fish and standards of the British-European dessert list like lemon meringue pie and profiteroles are all frequently on the menu. Many camps and lodges will have a curry night or a Swahili night (with aromatic dishes from the Indian Ocean coast) and most run menu rotations of at least five days to avoid presenting the same meals more than once. Local lager-style beer and familiar soft drinks are available everywhere, as is imported wine , often South African.

Kenya’s history

Some of the earliest fossil evidence of human ancestry has been discovered in Kenya, and the exhibits in Nairobi’s national museum and at several archaeological sites around the country are interesting, if not spectacular. The country’s original stone-tool-using hunter-gatherer inhabitants merged thousands of years ago with the first distinct migrations into the region of people from the highlands of what is now Ethiopia, who could have arrived at any time between 9000 BC and 1000 BC. The highland migrants brought an expanded material culture, including working in hard obsidian stone (better weapons) and a range of activities from refined pottery to leather and bark cloth clothing. For present-day Kenya, the key early arrivals (from around 1AD) were peoples from the forests further west, speaking languages of the huge Bantu family (including the forebears of today’s Kikuyu, Kamba and Mijikenda ethnic groups), and people from the upper Nile, who would have been the ancestors of today’s Rift Valley Kalenjin-speakers. These groups brought the knowledge of iron-working (essential for large-scale tree-felling) and by around 1000AD, most of Kenya’s peoples were engaged in an iron-age economy, with a good deal of intermarriage. On the coast, seafaring traders from the Arabian peninsula had already introduced Islam, and the cultures of the Indian Ocean were being introduced to the Bantu-speaking cultures of the coast to create the hierarchical society of the Swahili. The next big arrivals were American crops (corn, cassava, potatoes, tomatoes, tobacco) introduced by Portuguese merchant adventurers who had secured trading toe-holds on the coast, while new migrants into western Kenya included the ancestors of the Luo on the shores of Lake Victoria, and the Turkana , both groups coming from the upper Nile and hugely dependent on fishing. Finally the Maa-speakers (the Maasai and Samburu ) arrived in Kenya, again from the Nile region, and their economy was dominated by livestock and a diet largely consisting of milk and blood extracted from their living cattle. By the mid-nineteenth century, the Maasai were a dominant and militaristic force over much of Kenya. But severe droughts and civil war splintered them, so that by the end of the century, with European raiders moving rapidly across East Africa, building a railway to Lake Victoria and beginning to settle, the African peoples of Kenya were fragmented and easily subdued. Anti-colonial resistance fizzled out as Europeans flooded into Kenya between the first and second world wars. Many Kenyans fought with the British in World War II, especially in Burma, and the start of organised anti-British resistance in the 1950s included many returning servicemen. Britain fought an ugly war with the so-called Mau Mau , declaring a State of Emergency, sealing off villages and executing thousands of fighters. British atrocities have only been fully revealed in recent years. The inevitable withdrawal of the British and the return of Kenya’s independence , in 1963, were followed by decades of government corruption and mismanagement, though a greater degree of democracy has prevailed since the 1990s, together with freedom of the press. Kenya’s rampant free market economy and high birth rate, combined with tribal politics, has created a society that is forever and restlessly hopeful, but never at peace with itself. These conditions allow for a great deal of freedom for money to determine outcomes, and that includes in the fields of conservation and wildlife management . Kenya’s strict no-hunting law (applied by the first president, Jomo Kenyatta, in 1978) and its permissive land ownership laws mean that vast swathes of the country are effectively under foreign control, for the fundamental benefit of the wildlife, and tourism. Balancing this economic climate with the needs of Kenya’s millions of people living in deep poverty is the challenge for the 21st century.

Maps of the principal regions for a Kenya safari

These two quite different maps help you to understand the scale and features of Kenya: the GOOGLE MAP shows the country's diverse topography and landscapes: a country more than twice the size of the UK and 50 per cent bigger than California incorporates sweeping plains and highland peaks, arid deserts and an indented, mangrove- and beach-fringed coastline supporting coral reefs. Do click on Google's satellite view as well as the regular "Map" and "Terrain" views. Then our REFERENCE MAP is Expert Africa's own artwork map, clearly identifying Kenya's national parks, national reserves and private and community conservancies.

Need inspiration?

Let our trip chooser narrow down the options for you

Holidays and Safaris in Kenya

Expert Africa knows Kenya better than any other safari operator: our specialists combine decades of experience travelling and living in the country. So when we say we'll guide you to make the best choices for your trip from our own experience we say so with honesty and enthusiasm.

Kenya's key wildlife area is the Mara ecosystem; that includes the Maasai Mara National Reserve and the neighbouring Maasai Mara Conservancies . The majority of travellers include a visit to this region that has an iconic reputation for the Mara River that runs through it and the annual wildebeest migration – that also runs through it. We'll help you decide whether to stay inside the reserve or in one of the conservancies.

Easily reckoned as the second best wildlife area in Kenya, Laikipia consists entirely of private and community conservancies. You can easily see all the "Big Five here, as well as less obvious species such as wild dog and Grevy's zebra. And the region has also become famous among keen mammal-watchers and photographers for its black leopards.

Kenya's other principal safari areas are Samburu National Reserve and neighbouring conservancies, Amboseli National Park and the nearby Chyulu Hills, and Meru National Park (not to be confused with Mount Meru in northern Tanzania). We love them all, and many travellers have favourite camps that they return to year after year.

Please browse through our selection of safari and beach holiday itinerary examples below, then call us , so that one of our Kenya experts can help you to design an individual, tailor-made trip that will suit you perfectly..

The Highlights of Africa

17 days • 7 locations CAPE TOWN AIRPORT TO KIGALI AIRPORT

An epic adventure taking in some of Africa’s most incredible sights and wildlife experiences, from Cape Town to the Okavango Delta, Victoria Falls, the Maasai Mara and an encounter with mountain gorillas.

US$14,310 - US$18,170 per person

Gorillas and Maasai Mara Safari

9 days • 3 locations KIGALI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

This trip combines two of Africa's most unforgettable wildlife experiences – Rwanda's mountain gorillas and Kenya's Maasai Mara.

US$11,260 - US$14,090 per person

Purple Grenadier Fly-In Safari

6 days • 2 locations NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

Fantastic guiding from intimate, well-run mid-range tented camps, in superb conservancy locations: this safari is all about making the most of the incredible wildlife in Laikipia and the Maasai Mara.

US$5,010 - US$6,600 per person

Striped Hyena Safari

5 days • 3 locations NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

Just one example of a possible itinerary for keen walkers, this safari enables you to experience the sounds and sights of the bush, and its wildlife, in an unusually direct way.

US$5,020 - US$6,470 per person

Martial Eagle Fly-in Safari

9 days • 3 locations NAIROBI AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

This stylish fly-in safari visits two of Africa’s most iconic parks, the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya and Tanzania's Serengeti National Park.

US$12,590 - US$18,010 per person

Steppe Eagle Fly-in Safari

7 days • 2 locations NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

Two comfortable tented camps overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro and Mara River put you at the heart of the action. Experience spectacular diversity in species and habitat with safari in Samburu and the Masaai Mara National Reserve.

US$5,680 - US$8,620 per person

African Hawk-Eagle Fly-in Safari

Two luxurious camps provide relatively quiet game-viewing within Laikipia and the Mara ecosystem. Situated on private conservancies, both Lewa Wilderness and Naboisho offer the chance to sight all of the "Big 5" and to enjoy a range of safari activities.

US$7,780 - US$12,800 per person

Kinondo Kwetu Beach Holiday

7 days • 1 locations NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

Enjoy a ‘home away from home’ on a beautiful beach, where you will be exceptionally well looked after by a superb team. This holiday can be as relaxed or as action-packed as you like.

US$3,760 - US$5,540 per person

Greater Kudu Fly-In Safari

Experience a truly authentic bush experience on this safari at two classic tented camps, in Laikipia and the Maasai Mara. These are some of the best places to spot wild dogs and big cats.

US$7,170 - US$8,410 per person

Let us help you customise your trip

All of our holidays on this site are just ideas; none are fixed. All of our trips are tailor-made, so we'll always adapt them to suit you. Talk to an Expert and let us help you to work out your perfect trip.

Talk to an Expert

Call us now! We’ll match you with the Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you. Then together we can start planning your trip.

Set up your itinerary

Based on our experience and your ideas, your specialist will create a detailed, costed itinerary. We’ll refine it together, until we have a trip that you’re perfectly happy with.

Prepare for your trip

The same Specialist will make the seamless arrangements for your trip, send you detailed travel documents, and be available to answer any questions before you depart.

Travel with peace of mind

After you set off, you’ll be cared for by our partners in Africa, most of whom have worked with Expert Africa for decades. And if you ever need us urgently, we’re available 24/7.

When you return

We love to learn about your trip, and so will always be grateful if you’ve the time to give feedback to your Specialist when you return.

Kenya holiday styles & special interests

From family adventures to romantic breaks, find ideas here for your perfect Kenya safari

Beach holidays

Discover Africa's coast and tropical islands.

Birdwatching

Diverse habitats, discreet hides and superb guiding.

Cultural experiences

Get an insight into Africa's cultures and history.

Family holidays

Hand-picked camps for an incredible family safari.

Romantic safaris and castaway island retreats.

First-class service, scenic vistas and unparalleled comfort await you during these carefully selected luxury holidays. 

Photography holidays

Great holidays to suit the keen photographer.

Private villas & houses

Enjoy Africa with just your friends & family

Riding holidays

Explore Africa's wilderness on horseback.

Solo Travel

Trip ideas ideally suited for a solo traveller.

Explore Africa's most scenic trails on foot.

Walking safaris

Explore Africa's untouched wildernesses on foot.

Wellness escapes in stunning locations

Wildlife safaris

These trips include hard-hitting game and fascinatingly elusive species alike, as well as superb guiding and a variety of diverse ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions

At Expert Africa we often get asked the same questions - understandably. It can be hard to imagine how it works when you mix lions and elephants with human beings, or how you'll manage charging your phone out in the bush. Here we try to provide some answers.

Is Kenya crowded with tourists?

Kenya is the country where photographic safaris originated ( safari is a Swahili word meaning “journey”) so it’s not surprising that some parts of it can be busy with visitors, especially in the peak holiday seasons. However Kenya’s visitor numbers are tiny relative to its size, and it’s nowhere near as touristy as big holiday destinations such as Mexico or Thailand. Expert Africa has decades of experience in visiting every corner of the country, including some really off-the-beaten-track locations. If you want small camps and peaceful wildlife-viewing we know how to make that happen for you.

Is it safe? What about being in an unfenced safari camp or an open-sided vehicle with animals around?

This is one of the hardest things to get your head around if you’ve not experienced a safari before: what stops the animals from attacking the people? The facts of this are disarmingly simple: very few species of Kenya’s magnificent megafauna are dangerous to people in normal circumstances. The wildlife tends to stay away from centres of human activity, and that includes unfenced safari camps. All such camps are patrolled, especially at night, by askaris (night watchmen or security guards), usually traditionally dressed and armed with alarming spears and big torches. Harmless grazers (for example impalas or zebras ) sometimes come into camp to munch on the lawn, but only solitary buffalos and elephants are considered bold enough and unpredictable enough to be worthy of serious concern and are always carefully monitored and ushered out of the camp if possible. After dark, you will always be accompanied by an askari when walking between your tent and the central area of camp. The big cats are not considered dangerous while you’re in a vehicle, and rarely come into camps. Hippos are certainly dangerous, but not unless you come between them and the water – not something that a walking guide would ever allow.

I’m not sure about camping. What are the tents like?

Back in the day, safaris were conducted with the kind of tents you might be familiar with putting up yourself; not any more (at least not for the most part). The vast majority of the tented camps in Expert Africa’s Kenya programme are permanent properties set in beautiful locations, with very large, fully furnished en-suite tents or chalets, usually set on a plinth or platform, often with a pleasant deck at the front equipped with chairs or loungers. Bathrooms, which may be solid constructions, are usually plumbed in and 24-hour hot water and electricity are the norm. The central area of the camp will include a comfortable lounge and dining area, and many camps have small libraries, gift shops, sometimes even a swimming pool. If all that sounds too much, then more rustic but still fully furnished and comfortable camps are still widely in use – please ask your specialist consultant to suggest examples of the kind of camp you’d like to stay in.

What plugs does Kenya use? Will I be able to charge my phone and batteries?

Wall sockets in Kenya take the square, three-pin plugs used in the UK (“Type G”). The standard electricity supply (220–240V) from Kenya Power and Lighting is unreliable, and most tented camps and lodges are not on the grid and generate their own electricity from solar panels, with some using backup generators. Increasingly, guest tents and rooms have 24-hour electricity and some provide USB sockets as well as plug sockets. Safari vehicles in some camps are also fitted with plug sockets. It’s a good plan to take a power bank and possibly an extension lead for convenience.

What about bugs and snakes?

If you like creepy crawlies , you may be disappointed to see so few. You do tend to have to look for them, and a bush walk will give you some opportunities to see the smaller fauna. On the other hand, if you – or a travelling companion – are horrified at the prospect of insects drawn to the lights at night, or of the smaller critters that certainly dwell in the bush, then you’ll be relieved to know that your accommodation will always be insect-proof and the afternoon turn-down service will usually include some diligent bug spraying.

Is staying in a safari camp less expensive than staying in a more hotel-like lodge?

Usually not. Safari lodges (essentially hotels in the bush) tend to work on a volume-driven model, whereas tented camps are usually smaller, more personal and more expensive.

What happens if you need to use the loo/have a comfort break while on safari?

Game drives typically last for around three hours, and driver-guides are very used to receiving requests to “mark your territory” at some point. If you stop for a bush breakfast or sundowner drink, the area will already have been judged safe for you to be out on foot. Otherwise, driver-guides will always stop for your comfort and if no suitable safe bush is available to hide behind, then “checking the tyres” at the back of the vehicle is another popular euphemism. Safari vehicles are equipped with toilet paper, shovel and hand sanitiser.

Expert Africa's other destinations in Africa

Expert Africa offers tailor-made itineraries to 12 countries in East and Southern and Africa. Click below to see where else we've been - and where you might choose for your next trip.

You might well consider Tanzania , which borders Kenya to the south. It's a good deal larger than Kenya, with a wide variety of national parks, but few conservancies.

Tucked between East and Central Africa lies Rwanda , with its outstanding opportunities to do walking safaris tracking primates in the forest-clad mountain parks, including to meet a family of mountain gorillas.

Or consider Zambia , which stands out for exceptional wildlife and intimate camps. Malawi , to the east, has little visited parks and the crystal waters of Lake Malawi.

Further south, Zimbabwe offers an experience which can be more rustic, but is enhanced by the quality of its safari guides. Botswana , too, typically offers excellent guiding and and the allure of the Okavango Delta.

For an entirely different kind of safari, consider Namibia . Its vast landscapes allow for self-drive adventures. The same applies in South Africa .

If you're thinking of pairing your safari with diving, snorkelling or seaside relaxation, consider Mozambique , Zanzibar or the Seychelles , all of which are outstanding options.

The choices are vast and varied, so contact Expert Africa to craft your perfect safari, wherever that may be.

With big game, glamorous lodges and one of the greatest unspoilt wildernesses on Earth, Botswana is perhaps Africa's most exclusive safari destination.

With tropical rivers, Rift Valley plateaux, the crystal-clear waters of Lake Malawi and a stunning lakeshore, Malawi invites relaxed exploration.

An ocean paradise protected by world-class marine parks, Mozambique’s idyllic archipelagos offer heavenly hideaways, outstanding diving and laid-back luxury.

Spectacular scenery, diverse wildlife and a rich cultural heritage await discovery by air, with a guide or on a self-drive adventure.

This small, mountainous country offers Africa’s best gorilla treks, other good safari options and a profound human element in every trip.

The ultimate glamorous getaway: the lush islands of Seychelles are enchantingly beautiful and stylish sanctuaries for both wildlife and ocean-lovers.

South Africa

Cosmopolitan Cape Town, world-class wineries, brilliant ‘Big Five’ safaris and spectacularly diverse scenery make South African holidays fabulously exciting and enjoyable.

East Africa’s biggest country has a wide range of parks to explore and some of the Indian Ocean’s best island retreats.

Home to walking safaris, exceptional wildlife, superb guiding and the mighty Victoria Falls, Zambia is Africa at its most alluring.

The ultimate Spice Island: Zanzibar’s mystique, marine life and chic beach retreats make it Africa’s most alluring archipelago.

Stunning national parks teeming with game, plus Africa's finest professional guides and the spectacular Victoria Falls: Zimbabwe is enthralling.

Elephant safari in Linyanti

Login to Expert Africa

Sign in with password

Sign in with email link

New to Expert Africa? Create an account

Forgotten your details?

It's free & quick to set up

• Save your wish-list
• Send us an enquiry
• Pay online for your trip
• Subscribe to our newsletter
• Give us feedback on your trip
• Full site benefits of the site

Need some help? Talk to our team

African Safari Specialists: 16 Experts We Trust

By Paul Brady

Even the most hardcore travelers we know—the sort of people who plan their own hikes through Patagonia , ride motor scooters up and down Vietnam, and bareboat charter in the BVIs—get a little skittish when it comes to that most bucket-y of bucket trips, the ultimate African safari . And who can blame them? It’s tough to find legit info, the geography’s confusing, there’s a bunch of indecipherable lingo, and the price tag— oh, the price tag . When you’re spending more than $1,000 a day for what’s supposed to be the trip of a lifetime, even the most intrepid travelers are gonna get skittish.

Which is why we always advise travelers to book their next African adventure with the help of a travel specialist , somebody who’s actually stayed in the tented camps, walked through the bush with the guides, and been on those puddle-jumpers you’re planning to take. These experts know what’s up, because they’ve already been where you wanna go—and the other places you hadn’t even considered that may even be a little bit better. So whether you want to see the big five, track the Great Migration, paddle through the Okavango, or cruise the Skeleton Coast, these are the go-to experts that can help you pull it off.

Dan Achber, Trufflepig Achber knows Botswana particularly well—he’s organized multiday paddles on the Selinda Spillway and game counts with zebra researchers working in the Makgadikgadi Pans.

Cherri Briggs, Explore, Inc. Briggs has spent more than two decades planning trips to Africa , and her latest focus is lesser-known but awe-inspiring places like Cameroon, the Central African Republic, and Zambia.

Deborah Calmeyer, Roar Africa With her far-reaching network that includes some of the region’s savviest guides, she can get you into private homes, gardens, and art collections you can’t otherwise see.

Linda Friedman, Custom Safaris She’s planned lots of multigenerational family safaris, and she’s also expert at gorilla tracking in Rwanda .

Julian Harrison, Premier Tours He’s arranged trips with wildlife film-makers Dereck and Beverly Joubert, as well as with lion and rhino researchers.

Ryan Hilton, AuthentEscapes He’s planned photography workshops in the bush, connected travelers with anti-poaching teams, and coordinated a ten-day, 62-mile walking safari through raw wilderness.

Will Jones, Journeys by Design A native of Africa, Jones has been working in safaris since 1994, managing camps, guiding trips, and planning way-out-there expeditions into tribal villages and stretches of untouched wilderness.

Michael Lorentz, Passage to Africa Lorentz shines at back-of-beyond trips to Ethiopia and mobile safaris in Botswana, where you’ll spot meerkat, hyena, and other wildlife.

Henrietta Loyd, Cazenove + Loyd She’ll arrange safaris through tribal regions of Kenya, art tours in Cape Town , and meetings with politicos in Ethiopia.

Mark Nolting, The Africa Adventure Company For off-the-map safaris led by researchers in places like the rarely visited Mabuasehube Game Reserve, Nolting is our guy.

Wil Smith and Karen Zulauf, Deeper Africa They take walking safaris seriously, pairing you up with leading researchers, game wardens, anti-poaching teams, and guides for itineraries in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

Teresa Sullivan, Mango African Safaris Sullivan knows which routes, camps, and game reserves are best suited to families, and she’s coordinated multiday walks in the Kenyan bush.

Phoebe Weinberg, Greatways Travel Weinberg can get you the best rooms (like No. 6 at Singita Lebombo Lodge or No. 1 at Vumbura Plains), plus over-the-top extras like helicopter flights above the Okavango Delta.

Nina Wennersten and Daniel Saperstein, Hippo Creek Safaris This duo pulls off spectacular trips in Kenya (to the Segera Retreat, for example), South Africa (where they’ll arrange private wine tastings), and Tanzania (where they recommend Roving Bushtops).

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Deals of the Week   European Long Weekends   Up to 50% OFF

Kenya Safari Tours and Holiday Packages

Find and book your dream safari in magical Kenya. There are 869 Kenya safari adventures to choose from, that range in length from 1 days up to 21 days. The most popular month for these tours is October.

Best Kenya safari tours based on 1,351 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

7 Days 6 Nights Kenya luxury Safari

It was a trip our family will never forget. Your dedication, knowledge and excellent attitudes truly made the difference… When I asked our kids what they liked the most, their top answer was ‘the friendship we made with Simon and Isaac ’. Thank you for sharing so much with us! ~Jonas, NJ.

Kenya Wildlife Safari

This trip far exceeded my expectations, especially since this was my very first time going with a tour. We had an amazing group who made this experience all the more fun. Our driver, cook, and guide was so welcoming and we never once felt like we were in any kind of danger. Our guide, Martin, was always honest with us and made sure we weren't taken advantage of by local merchants. This was really a once in a lifetime experience and the people of Kenya were all wonderful, especially the local tribes who welcome us with open hands and always went out of their way to get everyone involved and taught us so much about their way of life, their culture, and traditions. The itinerary is pretty spot on and there weren't any ugly surprises, only wonderful ones. I would recommend everyone to thoroughly read through it and make sure you bring the right equipment as some people in our group were caught off guard with the storage size and night weather (their sleeping bag didn't hold up to the cold weather). We were able to see so many wild life on our trip, even driving on the highway we saw zebras just walking pass the street. Giraffes, monkeys, and hyenas (we always heard them at night) were also a regular occurrence! On our safari's we were able to see 4/5 big five (+cheetah!) and all of the ugly five. Really just an amazing experience that people of all ages can appreciate!

Kenya Camping Safari

It was more than what I expected. Every thing was well organised. The guide/tour leader is a important part of tour and I found the guide/ tour leader of both my trip with g adventure was good.

Premium Kenya

6 Days Kenya Budget Tours (with FREE NIGHT at Nairobi Hotel)

Amazing Safari!!!!!!! Embarking on a six-day safari with Bon Voyage Safaris to the Serengeti and Maasai Mara National Park was an unparalleled adventure of a lifetime. From the moment we set foot in the vast plains of the Serengeti to the majestic landscapes of the Maasai Mara, every moment was filled with wonder and excitement. Our journey was expertly curated by Bon Voyage Safaris, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience from start to finish. Our knowledgeable guide navigated us through the wilderness with precision, offering insights into the rich ecosystem and abundant wildlife that call these parks home. Witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti was a sight to behold, as thousands of wildebeests and zebras thundered across the plains in search of greener pastures. The sheer magnitude of nature's spectacle left us in awe of the natural world's beauty and complexity. In the Maasai Mara, we were treated to thrilling encounters with the Big Five, including up-close sightings of lions, elephants, and leopards. Each game drive revealed new wonders, from picturesque sunsets painting the sky to elusive predators on the prowl. Throughout our safari, Bon Voyage Safaris ensured our comfort and safety, with luxurious accommodations and delectable cuisine served under the African sky. Our six days in the wilderness were a transformative journey into the heart of Africa's wild beauty, leaving us with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Kenya Family Safari

Your staff did an excellent job. We had a great time and I would recommend this trip for my friends.

Masai Mara Camping Safari

Our guide was great and interacted well with the group. He had lots of animal knowledge and found us some great animals. Our transport was a van but it made it there and back and wasn't too bad for game viewing. Plenty of space for the 6 of us. Accommodation is a basic tent with bed and mossie net but was all we really needed. Meals were good and there was always plenty. While the trip is advertised as 4 days, it's only 3. I would have enjoyed having an extra day to spend in the Mara.

Kenya Safari Experience National Geographic Journeys

It is Tim and I first time at a safari and we had a fantastic experience because Lilian and Vincent the driver from G-adventure was knowledgeable in their work. We very much enjoy it and is looking forward for the next trip. Thanks.

5 Days Masai Mara and Amboseli Wildlife Safari

Our 5 day Kenya Masai Mara safari was fantastic. Everything was very good. Martin our driver guide, extremely hard-working, knowledgeable and helpful. From airport reception to on time performance all very good. Good company I can recommend.

7 Days, 6 Nights Safari To Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha And Amboseli With Complimentary First Night Accommodation at After 40 Hotel and free airport pickup.

We loved the variety of this tour - safari by vehicle, hot air balloon, bike, boat, and foot. The accommodations ranged from basic to good, so this tour is best for those who don’t need luxury accommodations, which we did not. The food was always very good and plentiful. We had 2 guides - Nathan and Tony, and both were excellent. They were friendly, knowledgeable, patient, and good drivers. The optional tours need to be updated on the description of the tour, as inflation has caused an increase in prices. The hot air balloon safari was $450/pp (a wonderful experience with a nice champagne picnic breakfast afterwards). The Massai village visit was $25/pp. We recommend both. Bring lots of cash for drinks, souvenirs, and tipping. We underestimated and ran out, but our guide made a stop at a bank for us to get more. Good communication and customer service from the tour company as well. Overall an incredible vacation. We will be back in Kenya in the future and would definitely use this company again.

7 Days Taylor -Made Kenya Luxury Safari

This is one of the best tours ever just loved the experience

7 Days Kenya mid range Joining Safari

CKC Safari is outstanding from first contact through to saying farewell at the end. Efficient, professional and nothing to much trouble to ensure a wonderful experience.

5 Days Kenya medium range safari for Amboseli and Tsavo Parks from Nairobi to Mombasa

I would highly recommend CKC Tours. John responded to all our queries promptly and went back and forth until we had an itinerary we were happy with. We were then met by John at the airport and given all the documentation for our trip which included lodges at Masai Mara and Amboseli and internal flights. It was all very easy and well organised. I also found it to be very competitively priced considering the service we received and the standard of accommodation.

6 Days Kenya Budget Small Group 4x4 Jeep Safari

I recently went on an African safari tour and it was truly an unforgettable experience. From the moment I arrived, I could sense that everything was well organized and the staff were all welcoming and friendly. The tour guide was an exceptional person with vast knowledge of the African wildlife and their habitats. We went on several safaris and each one was more exhilarating than the last. I was awestruck by the beauty of the animals and their natural habitats. It was truly breathtaking to see lions, elephants, giraffes, and other wild creatures in their natural surroundings. The tour guide was excellent at explaining the different species and their behaviors, which made the experience even more enriching. In addition to the safaris, we also went on several other experiences such as hot air balloon rides, village visits, and scenic walks. These activities gave us a chance to explore the local culture and learn about the people and their way of life. It was fascinating to see how different their way of life was from our own and how much we could learn from them. The tour was a great value, as we got to experience so much in a relatively short amount of time. I was amazed at how much was included in the tour and how well everything was organized. The accommodations were top-notch and the food was delicious, which made the whole experience even better. Overall, I had an amazing time on this African safari tour. It was truly one of the best experiences of my life and I would recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure. The combination of amazing wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and fascinating local culture made it a trip of a lifetime. I will always cherish the memories I made on this tour and I can't wait to go back one day!

Picturesque Solo Kenya Tour

Life-changing trip, supported by a top-notch experience from Indus Travels. The logistics, travel services, accommodations, tour guides, tour experiences, and itinerary excelled my greatest expectations. Cannot wait to tour with them again!

Kenya Safari Tour Reviews

I enjoyed the tour The good was good and the guide was sharp

Everything was Amazing

My first time camping and I had a blast! David was a fantastic CEO: helpful, patient, informative and good natured. The people, places and animals I’ve seen will stay will me for a long time.

Safari Tours

• Wildlife (267)
• Big Five (106)
• Great Migration (52)
• Flying Safari (14)

National Park

• Masai Mara National Reserve (127)
• Lake Nakuru National Park (83)
• Amboseli National Park (55)
• Amboseli National Park (34)
• Tsavo National Park (32)
• Samburu National Park (11)
• Lake Nakuru National Park (7)

Regions in Kenya

• Masai Mara National Reserve (137)
• Masai Mara (121)
• Lake Nakuru National Park (85)
• Amboseli National Park (56)
• Amboseli National Park (36)
• Mount Kenya (22)
• Central Kenya (17)
• Lake Nakuru National Park (9)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Safaris in December 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in August 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in January 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in November 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in October 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in September 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in July 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in June 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in May 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in April 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in March 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in February 2024/2025
• 10 Best Luxury African Safari Tours 2024/2025
• Kenya Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best Time to Visit Kenya for a Ultimate Safari Experience

Luxury Kenya Tours & Safaris

Authentic tanzania safaris, rwanda gorilla & adventure safaris.

• Seychelles Holiday & Honeymoon Tours
• Bespoke Mozambique Tours
• Air Ticketing
• Premium Kenya Hotels & Lodges
• Best Tanzania Hotels & Lodges
• Best Uganda Accommodation
• Top Rwanda Accommodation
• Mauritius Holiday Hotels
• Seychelles Holiday Hotels & Resorts
• Top Mozambique Hotels & Lodges

We are your personal Safari planning Experts.

We at Konnect Safaris are experienced Safari specialists providing bespoke (custom-tailored) Africa safaris and trips for couples, families, and individual travellers to Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and other major African Countries that offer an authentic African Safaris off the beaten tracks. We are passionate about wildlife, excited about the natural world, and extremely proud to call Kenya and Tanzania our home. Your trip of a lifetime deserves the very best planning and we would be thrilled to help you arrange it.

We believe your experience should be as unique as you and we work best with those who enjoy that personalised attention.

We are always happy and willing to go the extra mile for our guests and even though we tailor-make each itinerary to your specification, we will also encourage and suggest that our guests try out new and unique travel experiences to add to the unique experience on their safari with us.

Air Ticketing Services

You have more important things to think about and do instead of spending valuable time searching online for a cheap air ticketing agent. At Bewin Africa Adventures, we have invested to take such stress away.

Our team of air ticketing staff will get you some of the most attractive fares for any flight trip you want to take world over.

Airlines We Book

For us, it’s not about creating a big name or making lots of noise; it’s about using our expertise and professionalism to create some of the best safaris and making many a dream come true! From arrival to departure, every detail is anticipated and every effort made to ensure a seamless, unforgettable travel experience.

We offer below a unique selection of sample itineraries that turn your dreams into realities, we are happy to modify any of the itineraries below to suit your preference. These are our Sample itineraries. Our main specialties are wildlife camping, lodging, and luxury safaris, Mountain climbing, Beach holidays, cultural tours, cycling adventure tours and so much more!

Experience a luxury Kenyan Safari & Tour like no other – no matter what your preference, be it a family-friendly holiday, romantic honeymoon or photographic safari that draws you to the African continent.

A Kenyan safari not only boasts spectacular natural beauty in one of the most unspoiled places on earth, but it also brings you up close and personal with Africa’s most sought-after wildlife.

We take care of all of the details for you from start to end. We will prepare you with visa information, health requirements for immunizations, arrange for Emergency medical evacuation, airport assistance, and more. We are here to make sure you arrange your dream safari, are ready and excited. Your personal Safari specialist will make sure that everything is going seamlessly. We are here for you 24/7 and account for every detail !

Good Value Kenya and Livingstone

Ultra-Luxury Mara & Diani Beach

East Africa’s Kenya, Tanzania & Uganda Safari & Gorillas

Kenya hotels & lodges.

Emboo River Camp

Sirikoi Lodge- Lewa Conservancy

Richards River Camp

Few destinations in Africa can rival Tanzania’s diversity of wildlife, cultures and landscapes. From the classic savannah destinations of the Serengeti, Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater to the beaches and coral reefs of Zanzibar and the tropical coast, a Tanzania safari holiday delivers one massive experience after another. And that’s before you discover the off-the-beaten-track experiences such as chimpanzee trekking in the magisterial rainforests of Mahale and Gombe or game viewing in the super-remote Selous Game Reserve.

3 days tanzania luxury safari

6 Day Tanzania Camping Safari

4 Days Zanzibar package

4 Day Tanzania Camping Safari

9 Day Tanzania Camping Safari

5 Day Tanzania Camping Safari

Seychelles holiday & honeymoon tour.

Set against the soothing blue of the Indian Ocean and with only granite boulders or the occasional cluster of palm trees breaking the long runs of powder-soft beaches, the islands of the Seychelles Archipelago are hard to beat as a beach holiday destination. And it’s not just the postcard-perfect beaches that sit among the world’s finest; with a scattering of award-winning resorts and super-stylish villas, a Seychelles holiday affords you the chance to live out your tropical island fantasy in pure, world-class luxury.

Kenya’s Mara & Seychelles’ Islands

Honeymoon Serengeti & Seychelles

Golf Sun City & Seychelles

Seychelles’ Mahe Island

Honeymoon Kruger & Seychelles’ Mahe

Honeymoon Cape, Kruger & Seychelles

Africa’s easiest and most accessible gorilla trekking is the main draw card of a Rwandan safari. After arriving at the capital city of Kigali, you are only a few hours’ drive away from the legendary Volcanoes National Park and its habituated but still wild gorilla families.

Rwanda Gorilla Encounter

Fly-in Rwanda Gorilla Trek

Secret Gorillas, Chimps, Serengeti & Crater

Adventurer Rwanda’s Gorilla Tracking

East Africa’s Gorillas, Safari & Beach

Why book your safari with us, pay the right price.

Our policy is that you don’t have to pay more to receive the best service! We believe that everyone has the right to get the best experience for their budget. Booking tours direct with us means no agent fees or middleman.

Customer Service

Our office staff, certified Mountain guides and safaris guides are always proud to share with you there in-depth acquired knowledge from years of experience. We strive to meet our clients needs and tailor our tours based on their preferences!

Testimonials

Thank you Ayesha at Konnect Safaris ls for organizing for us an amazing trip. From the moment we arrived in the Jomo Kenyatta airport until our back flight home, everything was perfectly arranged.

We were surprised that the managers at each property knew our names and interests. Thank you so much for helping us to make this trip possible. It was truly an amazing experience and we are already dreaming about our next trip to Africa. ~Michael Hagen

Safari specialists in Kenya

Answer a few basic questions about your envisaged Kenya safari below. Our destination experts will get in touch with a quote within few hours.

WHERE DO YOU WANT TO GO You can select multiple options

Masai Mara National Reserve

Pièce de resistance of Kenya, and arguably entire Africa. Big Cat sightings and activities don’t get better than Mara, anywhere on this planet!

Amboseli National Park

Sprawling views of Mt Kilimanjaro, world’s tallest freestanding mountain. African bull elephants and other wildlife against Kilimanjaro are highlight.

Ol Pejeta / aberdare

Famous for its Rhino conservation, Ol Pejeta is the home to last two Northern White Rhinos and home to healthy Rhino population.

Lakes Nakuru & Naivasha

These rift valley lakes together host some of the most iconic wildlife and birdlife of Kenya, including Black Rhino, White Rhino, Rothschild Giraffe, African Fish Eagle, Pelicans, etc

Samburu National Reserve

It is famous for its unique fauna like gerenuk, Grevy's zebra, oryx and reticulated giraffe, along with terrific leopard sightings.

Tsavo National Park

Hailed as the original safari destination, Tsavo East and Tsavo West together span about 22,000 square kilometers and boast of abundant wildlife.

Mombasa and Diani

The beach side of Kenya is vibrant with options, and particularly south coast of Diani is the star attraction. The azure water with white sands attract people.

Not sure/Others

If you are not exactly sure of your destinations, our destination expert will consult you and suggest a tailor-made plan for you.

HOW MANY DAYS ARE YOU PLANNING

When are you planning to travel.

It is ok to be tentative

HOW MANY OF YOU ARE COMING

No. of adults, no. of children, your contact information.

We will send quotes to your email ID. Your contact information will be confidential and will be used only to send quotes for Safari in Kenya

Processing. Please wait...

• United Kingdom
• United States
• GBP (£)
• US Dollar ($)

Luxury Kenya Vacations & Safaris 2024/2025

Wildlife wonders like the Great Migration and flamingo-covered lakes make Kenya’s safaris one of Scott Dunn’s unrivaled vacation destinations.

• Kenya safari tours crafted by award-winning travel specialists
• 24/7 seamless support throughout your entire trip
• Unique experiences led by trusted local guides
• Carefully curated collection of luxury safari lodges & hotels

Kenya, on the east coast of Africa, is the home and iconic heartland of 'safari'. The country is evocative of a romantic and pioneering age, made famous by the book and film Out of Africa, and Kenya holds a special place in the hearts of Africa-lovers.

One of the best spots for game-viewing year-round is the Maasai Mara , part of the greater Serengeti ecozystem, where you'll find big cats aplenty, and during some months it is also home to huge herds of wildebeest grazing on the sweeping plains on their annual migration.

Throughout the country, there are high concentrations of "big five" game, of which Kenya’s safari tours have some of the highest numbers in Africa. North and east of the Mara, the Great Rift Valley  cuts a swathe through the middle of the country, with glittering lakes and dramatic landscapes.

The Laikipia  plateau at the foot of Mount Kenya is another rewarding location for a Kenya vacation, with good populations of rhino as well as rarer species of zebra, giraffe and antelope, and a wide variety of safari activities ranging from riding safaris  to walking with camels.

If looking for a mix of beach paradise and intrepid wildlife excursion, head for the Indian Ocean coastline to relax on miles of white sand beaches, like Diani Beach, for the perfect Kenya vacation itinerary.

Top Kenya Safari Tours

We’ve traveled the length and breadth of Kenya and tested every possible route to enable us to curate African safari vacations that work seamlessly, taking in the country’s many highlights at just the right pace. Packed with unique experiences and Kenya’s safari lodges, our trips deliver unforgettable travel moments.

Ultimate Kenya

Exceptional Kenya and Tanzania

Family Fun in Kenya

Limitless Kenya and Seychelles

Top Kenya Hotels

Our specialists have traveled every inch of Kenya and stayed in countless hotels so that we can recommend only the very best ones to match your preferences. Whether you want to stay at Kenya’s hottest resorts in the area or are looking for somewhere with rustic charm, our handpicked selection of Kenya’s luxury safari lodges and hotels has every angle covered.

Hemingways Nairobi

Kinondo Kwetu

Saruni Mara

Saruni Samburu

El Karama Eco Lodge

Speke's Camp

Borana Lodge

Almanara Boutique Hotel

Meet our experts on luxury vacations in kenya.

Bjorn Behlert

Africa & Safari Specialist

I was born in Malaysia where my parents used every opportunity to travel Asia as much as possible. As a child I was taken on canoes through the jungle, on trains or elephants through India and many other countries in the region. After returning to Germany, we still spent every school vacation abroad, often traveling to remote areas, which cemented my ever-growing hunger to explore.

Key Information About Kenya

• Best time to visit : July to September
• Flight time : +15 hours
• Time difference : +8 hours EST, +11 hours PST
• Currency : The Kenyan shilling

FAQs About Your Luxury Kenya Vacation

Wondering what to expect on a luxury Kenya safari tour? From the best time to visit and what to wear to family vacation tips, our experts answer some of our most asked questions.

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

According to our experts, generally speaking, the best time to visit  is between July through September. This is when the Great Migration  is in full swing in the Mara and the weather is favourable and dry.

However, if the migration isn’t a priority for your trip, some gorgeous shoulder months for ideal safaris are October, February and March. During this time there are fewer visitors, the rates are lower and the game-viewing is still fantastic.

Where are the best safaris in Kenya?

For a classic African safari vacation , Maasai Mara is where you should go. Open grasslands, herds of animals, big prides of lions – it’s truly the safari we all imagine in our heads. If it’s your first time visiting or you’re really wanting a Kenya vacation full of game drives, we recommend coming here.

That said, Kenya’s Laikipia region also offers incredible game viewing, in addition to a much wider range of activities. There’s horse riding, quad bike excursions, and fishing trips to Mount Kenya or Lake Turkana. It’s a great place for those who have visited Kenya before or are with a group of travelers with multiple tastes to satisfy.

How long are your Kenya safari vacations?

Our Kenya safari tours range from 8 to 12 days, however, our vacations are bespoke so we can create an itinerary that suits your timings.

We recommend at least 4 days for a safari, but after that, you can country-hop or head over to the beach for a bit of R&R in Diani or even the Seychelles. When you speak with our travel experts, they’ll work with you and your schedule to create the ideal trip.

What animals can I see on a luxury Kenya safari?

When on a Kenya safari, you can expect to see the “Big Five”. This includes lions, leopards, elephants, African buffalo, and rhinos. However, you’ll also come across, hippos, zebras, giraffes, and cheetahs.

If you’re hoping to witness the Great Migration, then fully expect to see wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles barrelling through the wild on their constant migration through the Serengeti-Mara ecozystem.

What should I wear when on safari in Kenya?

When it comes to clothing, we always recommend our guests focus on layers when it comes to our luxury Kenya safaris.

Kenya is a high-altitude country, so when the sun goes down, so does the temperature. For morning game drives, we recommend a fleece paired with a windbreaker or light puffer coat for maximum comfort, but by midday be prepared to strip back to your t-shirt and shorts.

For colors, keep it neutral. Think creamy whites, light greys, olive greens, tans, and browns. No need to go full camouflage, but best to leave any brightly colored clothes at home or kept for festive dinners at the lodge.

For the beach, the weather is warm and humid, so lightweight clothing is ideal. Linen, cotton, and breathable material will have you live in your best beach paradise.

Where are the best Kenya safari lodges?

Finding the best Kenya safari lodges depends on what the traveler is looking for.

If you’re looking for ultimate luxury, the Angama Lodges , now in both Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Park, or camps from Great Plains Conservation  are excellent choices. Picture glass-fronted suites, exclusive views over the plains, and stargazing from your own private balcony.

For a more low-key boutique option, and for those who prioritize guiding, the Serian Camp  and Cottars 1920s safari camp  are perfect. Get an authentic “Out of Africa” feel with these luxury-fitted tents, private game drives, and some of the best guides available. The benefit of the private drives is you’re not bound to the early morning if you prefer to sleep in a little longer, and there’s also the option of night drives.

Families will love Lewa House  or Kicheche Mara Camp . The cottages at Lewa House are perfect for families and kids will love visiting the local villages. Kicheche has a more intimate feel, really immersing you in nature with their safari tents. Kids adore the feeling of adventure this camp brings to your family vacation in Kenya.

If you’re traveling with grandparents as well, Lengishu  and Cottars safari villa are ideal for accommodating a multi-generational safari. It has a distinct home-away-from-home feeling that will have everyone vacationing in comfort.

Can I book a luxury Kenya safari for my honeymoon?

Yes! In fact, not only can you book a Kenya safari for your honeymoon, but we also highly recommend it. According to our Africa expert Bjorn Behlert:

“The charm and intimacy that our authentic tented camps in Kenya provide will have honeymooners swooning. Your time in Kenya will be designed to thrill you with intimate wildlife encounters, adventurous activities from hiking to horseback riding, and the nights to spoil you with the romance of Africa.”

Is a safari suitable for a family vacation in Kenya?

Kenya is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Africa. Almost all camps accept kids from a young age, which isn’t always the case with safari lodges. Amongst our favorites is Lewa House paired with properties such as Kicheche Mara, Angama Mara or House in the Wild . These camps are fabulous at keeping young kids engaged and included in the wildlife activities.

If you’re looking to add a bit of beach to your family vacation in Kenya, Kinondo Kwetu  is an excellent boutique hotel on Diani Beach. Relax on the beach or partake in activities like water sports, tennis, cultural visits to the local villages and even game drives.

Where are the best destinations for a family vacation in Kenya?

While Kenya’s welcoming and warm culture is found all over the country, the best destinations for families are all about the activities.

Safaris are great for families, however, they do require patience and silence, so while we recommend experiencing one or two game drives on your vacation, you definitely want more activities available to keep your little ones engaged and entertained.

Location-wise, the Maasai Mara can be a little dull for younger children as it’s a game-drive-heavy area. However, in the Laikipia region, there is more to do such as horse riding, fishing, tubing in rivers, and other family-friendly activities.

Where do your luxury vacations to Kenya fly from?

There are direct flights to Nairobi from JFK Airport, or there are connecting routes through Europe or the Middle East.

In Europe, there are connections through London, Paris, or Amsterdam. In the Middle East, your flights will connect through Dubai or Doha.

How much do your luxury Kenya safaris cost?

Our Kenya safari tours start at about $10,000 and go up from there. However, as our trips are bespoke, these are estimates based on the sample itineraries we’ve put together. The final cost will be unique to your trip and dependent on the experiences, accommodation, and flights you book.

You’re updated on costs throughout the entire planning process though, so you’ll know the exact cost before booking.

How do I book my Kenya safari?

To book your Kenya safari, get in contact by calling the number listed below or filling out our online inquiry form .

From there, our travel experts will be in touch to start the introduction and get to know you a bit more before crafting your incredible customized itinerary.

Call us on 858 523 9000 to start planning your holiday

Why choose Scott Dunn for Kenya Safari Tours?

Unique to You

• We listen to your travel goals and craft unique trips that are bespoke to you.
• We’re with you every step of your life’s travel journey, from honeymoons to family trips and beyond.

Seamless Service

• Global offices in the UK, US, and Singapore for 24/7 seamless service.
• We offer flexibility if your plans change so you can book with confidence and peace of mind.  

Carefully Curated Collection

• We’ve curated an elevated collection of accommodation, experiences, and guides.
• Committed to fostering close global relationships to continue bringing you unique experiences.

Luxury in Every Sense

• We deliver a sense of luxury that matters most to you.
• Awarded Condé Nast Traveler’s Top Travel Specialists in the World 10 years in a row.    

Our team of travel specialists are waiting to create your Kenya safari tour.

Explore Our Expert Travel Guides

Celebrate the beginning of your new adventure with an unforgettable luxury honeymoon in Kenya, one of Africa’s most vibrant and picturesque countries.

• Truly bespoke honeymoons in Kenya
• Access to unique experiences
• Award-winning luxury travel agent
• 24/7 support

Teeming with wildlife  and outstanding natural beauty, Kenya’s national parks and game reserves are a must-visit for this bucket list destination.

From the mighty African elephant to the extravagant pink flamingo, Kenya’s savannahs are home to some of the world’s most remarkable wildlife.

Continue exploring Kenya…

Things to do, places to visit, best time to visit, travel guides, plan your trip, when would you like to go, where would you like to go, how many nights, select your budget per person, contact details, tell us about your trip, unable to submit your request.

• You are here:
• Countries & Parks
• Kenya Travel Guide
• Expert Reviews

Kenya Travel Guide Kenya

Expert reviews (16).

• Parks & Reserves
• Best Time To Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Popular Routes
• Getting There
• Malaria & Vaccinations

​Expert Reviews – Kenya

Emma is an award-winning travel writer for Rough Guides, National Geographic Traveller, Travel Africa magazine and The Independent.

46 people found this review helpful.

Classic safari destination where it pays to be discerning

No true fan of the BBC’s Big Cat Diary or Disney’s The Lion King would ever admit this, but Kenya isn’t the best country in Africa for a safari. Its parks and reserves are full of animals and birds, of course, but all too many of them are stuffed with tourists, too. For a richer, more authentic experience, with stunningly diverse wildlife, pristine habitats and better opportunities to really immerse yourself in the wilderness, you should really be considering Tanzania, Zambia or Botswana instead. The people that enjoy Kenya most are those who have a strong personal connection with the country, or particularly positive associations with aspects of its history and ethnic make-up or its popular culture. Even if you have no particular interest in seeing the place where Big Cat Diary was filmed (the Masai Mara, easily one of the country’s finest reserves) or the location which inspired The Lion King (Hell’s Gate National Park), you may be enchanted by the Swahili towns and islands of the Indian Ocean coast, fascinated by Maasai traditions or thrilled at the thought of following in the footsteps of Karen Blixen and Ernest Hemingway. For me, the simple fact that Kenya was the first place I ever went on safari ensures that return visits always feel special. The best way to make the most of Kenya is to choose your area and operator carefully, avoiding the mass-market minibus trips which crowd out the more accessible parks such as Tsavo East, Tsavo West, Nakuru and Amboseli, and perhaps sampling some of the more imaginative ventures which can be found in quieter spots such as Laikipia, Lewa and Samburu. These are good places to find operations run by, or in close association with, local communities – a good way to ensure that your trip is meaningful and sustainable as well as enjoyable.

Nana is a travel writer and author of multiple guidebooks, including the Lonely Planet guides to Africa, Zambia & Malawi and South Africa.

34 people found this review helpful.

From game-packed hotspots to little known wilderness

Kenya’s stunning landscapes include rainforest, beaches, deserts and mountains, but it’s the first class wildlife watching that keeps so many visitors flocking back. Not only is it one of the best places in Africa to see the Big Five, it also counts among the world’s most important bird watching destinations, and is home to one of the most astonishing wildlife spectacles on earth - massive herds of wildebeest making their way across the savanna from the Serengeti plains in Tanzania to Kenya's Masai Mara in the annual migration. Tourist hot spots such as Amboseli (perfect for that money shot of elephants wandering against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro), and the Masai Mara - where on my last visit I witnessed a lion kill, had a close up encounter with a big cat whilst on foot, and sat watching vast streams of grunting wildebeest cross the river - are deservedly popular, but can suffer from 4WD traffic in high season. The good thing about Kenya, though, is that there are plenty of small and uncrowded parks, wilderness areas and wildlife conservancies where you can commune with animals and nature with hardly anyone else for company. A bumpy journey up though harsh desert to the country's north, for example, introduced me to Lake Turkana, a vibrant jade splash in a prehistoric landscape, which large numbers of crocodiles, hippos and snakes call home. On another occasion, I saw large herds of elephant traipse through the dusty plains of the Samburu, and sat by the rim a crater lake at little-visited Marsabit National Park, watching buffalo graze peacefully below.

Ariadne is a renowned African wildlife photographer whose work is featured in many well-known guidebooks and magazines.

28 people found this review helpful.

Kenya has it all

Kenya is a good choice for a first-time African safari. It has everything we image Africa to be: savannah plains teeming with grazers and predators, views of the snow-capped peaks of Kilimanjaro, palm-fringed beaches, sweaty jungles and a vast inhospitable desert. With the oldest safari industry on the continent, the Kenyans run a smooth operation and most tourists seem to walk away happy and fulfilled. I first went to Kenya in 1995 and I’ve been back many times since. It is easy to see a big variety of animals in Kenya. As a photographer, I love to go to the Masai Mara. I’ve been lucky to witness one of the biggest wildlife spectacles in the world here: the annual wildebeest migration. The timing for this is hard to predict exactly, but the Masai Mara offers some of the best all-year game viewing in a big eco-system. It is especially rewarding for big cats. Amboseli National Park with its big-tusked elephants is another one of my favourites. The Rift valley lakes in Kenya are some of the most accessible in East Africa, and seeing big flocks of flamingos in Nakuru National Park is another highlight. Deviating a little bit from the main tourist hotspots, I love going to Samburu National Reserve. This arid environment is home to many desert-adapted species, not easily seen elsewhere. Some people might like to end their safari with some time on the beach, and Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline is one of the finest. I’m not a beach person, but I love heading to some of the pristine coastal forests. Shimba Hills with its sable antelope and many forest creatures is excellent for birding as well.

Brian is an award winning travel writer, author of safari books and regular contributor to magazines such as BBC Wildlife and Travel Africa.

24 people found this review helpful.

Africa for Beginners

Kenya is so easy to get to – just eight hours away by air from London. Fly overnight and you can be in the bush in good time for lunch. Even before you arrive in Nairobi you can see giraffes wandering under the flight path in the city’s adjoining national park. Nairobi is where the whole safari industry kicked off and today it’s still the springboard for Kenyan safaris. Nowadays most visitors fly into the bush from Wilson, the world’s busiest airport for light aircraft. Prices are reasonable and distances short. The Masai Mara, Kenya’s must-see wildlife destination, is just a 45-minute hop away. You could easily spend your entire holiday here; but then you would miss out on Kenya’s incredible diversity, which ranges from the frost-shattered pinnacles of Mt Kenya and the cloud forests of the Aberdares to the flamingo lakes of the Great Rift Valley and the spectacular elephant strongholds of Tsavo and Amboseli. I would always include the Chyulu Hills among my top Kenyan destinations, together with Lewa on the Laikipia Plateau. And afterwards, where better to wash off the dust of a perfect safari than on the laid-back island of Lamu; or a barefoot luxury beach lodge on Kenya’s fabulous coral coast?

Mark is a travel writer who grew up in Africa and has written over 700 titles for Condé Nast Traveller, Travel Africa, BBC Wildlife and others.

23 people found this review helpful.

Home to ‘the greatest wildlife real-estate on Earth’

The Masai Mara has been called ‘the greatest wildlife real-estate on Earth’ and for the sheer density of its wildlife it probably as no competition anywhere in the world. For a first time safari these days you probably still can’t beat the Mara but you should pick your spot carefully and get a good driver who can help you to avoid the crowded spots. Amboseli has much of the same game with the added draw of one of the most beautiful views in Africa (over-looking as it does Kilimanjaro). Only Lewa Downs (on the slopes of Mt Kenya) could compete with that view for a sundowner setting. Mighty Tsavo is probably Kenya’s wildest park and offers the remotest safari experience for most visitors. I spent several days exploring isolated parts of Tsavo and saw almost nobody all the time I was there. At night I camped alone in a bungalow complex with nobody for several miles and the sound of hyena’s yapping around my campfire at night.

Lizzie is a reputed guidebook writer and author of the Footprint guides to South Africa, Namibia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe.

22 people found this review helpful.

An all-round destination with diverse landscapes, fascinating wildlife, beautiful coastline and intr

Kenya offers the classic quintessential image of a safari in Africa, and rightly so; the rolling hills and grassy plains really are stocked full of all the African animals people expect to see, including high concentrations of the crowd-pulling Big Five. Additionally, its stunning tropical coastline really does feature brilliant white sands backed by coconut palms, and the azure and inviting Indian Ocean really is alive with colourful reefs and fish. There are lots of reasons why I like Kenya, but it’s the dramatically diverse range of natural habitats and ever-changing scenery that is the greatest draw-card – rolling savannah roamed by massive herds of wildlife, mountain forests full of birds, high moors of Kikuyu fields, and stony parched northern deserts. There’s a fine collection of reserves and parks, the Masai Mara being the most famous, and while others are out of the way and don’t feature on normal itineraries, they do appeal for their geologically interesting landscapes or even marine life. I find Kenya’s historical and cultural makeup interesting too, which is still evident today – the majestic Maasai and Samburu still stalk the plains dressed in their trademark red and purple robes, ocean-going dhows still ply the Swahili coast, and you can still get a gin and tonic in a Nairobi bar. Kenya is totally jacked-up for tourism, and it can’t be disputed that the country relies on its natural assets to generate tourist income; although unfortunately in some respects I think too much so – there is one too many lodges in the Masai Mara, the presence of so many other tourists crowded around the same pride of lion in pop-up vehicles can be annoying, and some of the coastal resorts are insensitively-built and old-fashioned. But nevertheless, there are plenty of places to escape to, the typical safari experience is unrivalled, facilities are excellent, and there’s a lot to see and do, making Kenya a hugely rewarding place to travel in.

Gemma authored several Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the guides to Africa, Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa.

20 people found this review helpful.

World-class national parks and amazing diversity of habitats

Kenya was the first country to embrace the Western tourist trade, and it shows – the safari industry here is well-established and well organized, and the competition is hot enough to guarantee good value for money all round. The country has an amazing diversity of habitats from the semi-desert of the north to the volcanic highlands in the centre and the wide open plans of the south. There are some world-class national parks within easy reach of Nairobi, the capital, and Mombasa, the centre of beach holidays, so if you don’t have much longer than a week to spare Kenya’s good infrastructure and roads make the country a top option. You’ll likely be sharing your safari experience with lots of others though – Kenya leads the way in ‘mass’ safari tourism and minibuses abound throughout the year in the most popular spots. Don’t let this put you off, as it’s just a matter of doing a bit more research into less-visited areas (try Tsavo East and West National Parks for big five game viewing without the accompanying crowds) and opting for a knowledgeable safari company that understands you don’t want to follow the herd – the human herd, that is. It’s worth noting that the Great Migration of zebra and wildebeest actually spends part of the year in the Masai Mara rather than Tanzania’s Serengeti, so if you’re visiting East Africa between August and October and looking for a viewing of the migration, Kenya’s the place to be.

Philip is an acclaimed travel writer and author of many guidebooks, including the Bradt guides to Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya and South Africa.

18 people found this review helpful.

The home of the safari

Kenya is the original land of the safari. It is here that the likes of Karen Blixen and Ernest Hemingway pioneered the original early 20th century hunting safaris that eventually morphed into the more populist and eco-friendly photographic safari as we know it today. And it was also Kenya that first established itself as something approaching a mass safari destination, back in the 1960-70s – a circumstance that has led to it being labelled as being more commercialised and touristy than many other top African safari destinations (a rather lazy and unfair tag, in my view, as the country boasts more than its fair share of off-the-beaten track gems, ranging from the bird-rich Kakamega Forest and remote inland sea that is Lake Turkana, to the underrated Meru National Park and private reserves of the Laikipia Plateau) Of course, Kenya’s popularity is largely attributable to its immense scenic variety and beauty. Hemmed in by sensational Indian Ocean beaches, overlooked by the snow-capped volcanic peaks of Mount Kenya and Kilimanjaro, and bisected by the schism that is the Great Rift Valley, this is a land whose geographic diversity embraces sparkling lakes and palm-lined rivers, dense montane forests and parched deserts… but, above all, several of the world’s most celebrated savanna reserves. Indeed, Kenya’s biodiversity is such that its national bird checklist of 1,136 species is the second highest for any African country, despite it falling outside the continental top 20 when it comes to surface area. Perennial Kenyan favourites include dust-blown Amboseli, where peaceable herds of tuskers march majestically below iconic Kilimanjaro, and Lake Nakuru, with its shallows tinged pink by a million or more flamingos. Above all perhaps there is the Masai Mara, a northern extension of the Serengeti that hosts the world’s greatest wildlife spectacle, in the form of the tens of thousands wildebeest that hurtle across the Mara River annually between July and October. And as a regular safarigoer, I find northern Kenyan reserves such as Meru and Samburu-Buffalo Springs especially attractive for hosting such localised dry-country ‘specials’ such as Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe and gerenuk. Closely following the game reserves in the popularity stakes is Kenya’s superb coastline. My favourite destination here is Lamu, a richly atmospheric and remarkably laidback Swahili island town that’s barely changed shape in centuries. The old town of Mombasa, set in the heart of the country’s beach tourist industry, is notable for the Portuguese Fort Jesus, while Watamu is a haven for snorkellers and divers, with the added attraction of having the jungle-bound ruined mediaeval city of Gedi on its doorstep. Indeed, Kenya has so much to offer as a travel destination that the biggest difficulty facing prospective visitors is often where to start.

Mike is an award-winning wildlife writer, former editor of Travel Zambia magazine and author of the Bradt Guide to Southern African Wildlife.

17 people found this review helpful.

The home of safari

Kenya, to most people, is safari. This is where it all began, after all, and from Out of Africa to Big Cat Diary the country has provided the images that define the visitor’s idea of Africa. Certainly, when it comes to game viewing, this country has it all. Highlights include the Big Five spectacular of Masai Mara, with its celebrated wildebeest migration and legions of predators; the Rift Valley soda lakes, with their countless flamingos; the slopes of Mount Kenya, with its forest wildlife and famous lodges; the Laikipia Plateau, with its wild landscapes and rare species; and the marine wildlife of the numerous tropical beaches and islands. And that’s not even to mention the likes of Tsavo, Amboseli and Marsabit, all world-class reserves in their own right. I remember, on my first visit to Kenya, being amazed to find giraffe, zebra and gazelles in large numbers as we began to descend the Rift Valley, still many miles from any park or reserve – something that you simply wouldn’t find in Southern Africa, with which I was more familiar. Times have changed, of course, and a burgeoning human population means that game no longer roams quite as freely across as it once did. Wildlife now has to pay its way: more fences have been constructed and more bush turned over to farmland. Nonetheless, the safari industry is in a healthy state, and the development in recent years of private conservancies – such as Lewa and other properties on the Laikipia Plateau – has added some excellent new options for the visitor. All this choice brings dilemmas when planning your trip. The first-timer cannot go wrong with a classic package safari that combines Masai Mara with, say, Lake Nakuru, Samburu and the coast. More experienced safari goers might find Masai Mara too crowded, and look either to more exclusive lodges or to lesser-known reserves further north. The serious naturalist, meanwhile, might be just as happy tracking down rare primates in Tana River or golden-rumped elephant shrews in Arabuko Forest. And the birder will be happy anywhere: Kenya holds the world record for the most bird species recorded in a single day.

Anthony is a photographer and writer for travel magazines and Lonely Planet, including the guides to Kenya and Botswana & Namibia.

16 people found this review helpful.

Kenya: Home of the East African Safari

When you’re talking safaris, there’s really nowhere quite like Kenya, and that’s largely because Kenya’s portfolio of wildlife is outstanding. It was here that elephants and rhinos were pushed to the brink of extinction by poachers and it is here that these two very special species are making stirring recoveries. Lions, too, are something of a Kenyan specialty, as are leopards and buffalos. As such, Kenya is one of the best places on the continent to see the Big Five, with the Masai Mara and Tsavo just two of the places where you could see all of them in a day if you’re lucky. In the Masai Mara, the annual wildebeest migration, usually from July to October, is surely the greatest wildlife show on earth, an astonishing spectacle on an astonishing scale and the like of which you’ll see nowhere else on the planet. In Amboseli, you can get up close and personal with the Maasai and with elephants while Africa’s highest mountain, Mt Kilimanjaro, looms in the background. In the lakes of the Rift Valley, in the shadow of the volcanoes in the great fracture that almost slices the continent in two, flamingos mass in their millions, turning the earth pink. Then there are the deserts of the north, the primate-rich rainforests of the west, the idyllic marine parks of the coast… This variety of signature African experiences is what gives Kenya a special edge when it comes to choosing a safari, and places it firmly among the elite of African safari destinations.

Stuart is a travel writer and author of numerous Lonely Planet guidebooks, including 'Kenya', 'Rwanda' and 'Tanzania'.

14 people found this review helpful.

East Africa’s Most varied Nation

Kenya is the original home of the safari. This is the land of the world renowned Masai Mara National Reserve where tawny coloured lions feast off the hundreds of thousands of wildebeest that annually migrate into the country from neighbouring Tanzania. This is the country where lakes can be brushed pink by a million flamingos, where elephants trumpet below the snows of Kilimanjaro and where red robed Maasai stride over savannah plains. With such classic images as these being everyday sights in Kenya there is quite possibly nowhere else in Africa better for a safari. A Kenyan safari can be as easy and luxurious - or as remote and challenging - as you want it to be. You can travel by light plane from animal studded park to animal studded park while staying in some of the most decadent safari camps in Africa and reaping the benefits of the continent’s finest wildlife guides. Or, you can hop on a matatu minibus crammed with locals going to market and camp out under an acacia tree all alone in the wilderness. From a personal perspective Kenya means more to me than most countries. My father and grand-parents grew up here and over the past twenty years I’ve spent many months travelling around the country. So where are my favourite parts of Kenya? Well, of course, like everyone I adore watching the sun set over the Masai Mara grasslands, but perhaps my favourite parts of Kenya, of Africa even, are a world away from these safari clichés. I love the green and wet western highlands where few tourists venture but where the mass of Kenyans live. This is a muddy, agricultural region with small market towns whose populace is more concerned with the price of maize than the antics of a lion. Travelling the west is about taking ferries to remote and beautiful islands on Lake Victoria, hiking through Congolese-like forests and eating sausage and chips in cafes with red-checked table clothes. Then there’s my next favourite area. The north. This is different again. It’s a wild frontier land of vast, shattered lava rock deserts, lakes of jade, lonely forests on hilltops high in the sky and feather bedecked Samburu warriors in full regalia. Travelling the north is, in my opinion, one of the best adventures in Africa. But Kenya has so much more still to offer. There’s snow on the Equator at the summit of Mt Kenya, sultry white sand beaches with coral reefs teeming in multi-hued fish down on the coast and a buzzing cosmopolitan cultural scene in the capital, Nairobi (itself the most interesting city in East Africa). Add it altogether and you have the most varied, exciting and rewarding country in East Africa. If I had to pick just one country in the world to return to time after time then without hesitation it would be Kenya.

Lucy is travel writer for a range of publications, including Lonely Planet's guides to Africa, Southern Africa and South Africa.

9 people found this review helpful.

Quintessential safari country

My first safari experience was in Kenya's Masai Mara, an unforgettable week that brought sightings of each one of the Big Five and to date my only glimpse of lions on a hunt. Kenya is the archetypal safari spot, boasting flat savannah land dotted with acacia trees, tribal guides in customary dress and the iconic image of giraffes grazing to a backdrop of Kilimanjaro's snow-capped peak. Although all offer something special, parks vary considerably, with the northern reserves such as Samburu often offering a wilder, more rough around the edges experience than southern parks like Tsavo and the Masai Mara. It was in Samburu that we returned to our overland truck after an amazing drive to find that vervet monkeys had found their way in, stolen our snacks and left some not-such-pleasant presents in their place!! Although most people visit with only animals in mind, there is a lot more to the country than wildlife, including scenic hikes up and around Mount Kenya and beautiful beaches along the Indian Ocean coastline.

Christopher is a British travel writer and has contributed to various Fodor's guidebooks and a range of travel magazines.

8 people found this review helpful.

East African safari stalwart

Kenya is a fascinating place inhabited by fascinating people and brimming with rich cultures, while its wide variety of parks are overflowing with an unprecedented density of wildlife. The Masai Mara was the first place I ever went on safari and I saw the Big 5 on day one within about 3 hours. But sadly, this particular experience was slightly tainted by the swarm of vehicles that quickly descended on any interesting sighting. Far more rewarding, in fact, were other trips to some of the lesser-known gems. These included the picturesque Lake Nakuru National Park, with its abundance of rhinos and the millions of flamingoes that cover the lake’s surface in a great pink cloud. Lake Elementaita is also a beautiful, tranquil spot to see the flamingoes against the backdrop of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. But the absolute highlight of Kenya for me was the wild and remote Lake Turkana, known to locals as the Jade Sea, in the arid northern reaches of the country, a long way from the beaten path, and from many of my preconceptions about Kenya for that matter. In fact, Kenya is far more diverse than many visitors will realize. It’s a big country that many only experience small fractions of. For the most part, the urban areas are overpopulated and unattractive, and tourists will have to deal with a lot of hassle from local vendors if they want to explore on foot. Nairobi has some good restaurants and nightlife and is a good place to stock up on curios before heading home, but it’s noisy and sometimes just plain scary. The coastal towns, too, are sometimes overpopulated and sport a little too much tourist kitsch, but the coastline itself is stunning and makes Kenya, like neighbouring Tanzania, a good “combination” destination.

Alan is a travel writer and author of over 20 Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the guides to Southern Africa and Zambia & Malawi.

7 people found this review helpful.

A Safari Behemoth

In some ways, Kenya rates as the best country for safaris in Africa. That is a contentious statement and many would argue that Tanzania should be given that title. Whichever way you go, Kenya is undeniably a destination which will fulfill your African safari dreams. It’s the variety and density of wildlife interspersed among a network of parks and reserves that are so varied and intricately woven into Africa’s rich fabric of landscapes, that it sometimes feels like you’re on a different planet. The parks are backed by a well-developed infrastructure, a sophisticated nightlife and culinary scene in the urban centres, and accessible traditional cultures including the famed Maasai. In fact, many parks and conservancies employ Maasai warriors to guard the camps at night, which usually involves chasing away inquisitive elephants, cheeky baboons or hyenas who like chewing through exposed water pipes…. But it’s the wildlife and the Big Five especially that visitors come to see and Kenya doesn’t disappoint. Don’t forget that the Masai Mara in Kenya and the Serengeti in neighbouring Tanzania are host to possibly the greatest wildlife show on Earth during the annual Great Migration. It’s an event not to be missed if you’re in the region at the right time of year. From the classic African savannah of the Masai Mara, to the mist shrouded mountains of the Aberdares, or the arid, scrubby, gnarly beauty of Samburu, and the stunning Rift Valley scenery of parks like Lake Bogoria and Lake Nakuru, the mesh of landscapes is as much of an attraction as their inhabitants. Kenya may surprise, it may enchant, it may become an addiction but if you are up for a safari it rarely disappoints.

Harriet is a zoologist with more than 20 years’ experience. She has the privilege of working with the world’s top wildlife photographers and photo-guides.

1 person found this review helpful.

The Quintessential ‘Out of Africa’ Safari Destination, but…

Yes, Kenya is the classic ‘Out of Africa’ safari destination, with sweeping savannah vistas and home to ‘Big Cat Diary’ and countless other wildlife documentaries. However some parts of Kenya are at risk of being overrun by mass tourism, so choose carefully where you go. The Masai Mara National Reserve, in particular, can get overrun with hordes of tourist vehicles, jostling round predator sightings and jamming up the river banks during the wildebeest migration – uncomfortable scenes the wildlife films rarely show. Kenya has so many other game reserves to offer. Amboseli National Park is home to photogenic elephants with the backdrop of Mt Kilimanjaro. Samburu National Reserve, in the north, has unusual arid-adapted wildlife, and the vast Tsavo National Park (East and West) is famous for its big tuskers. In addition there are a number of private concessions, including the central Laikipia Plateau reserves, which offer lower-density tourism and are rightly proud of their ecoconservation success stories. Kenya caters for all budgets from overland trucks and group-package holidays to exclusive private itineraries. If budget allows, consider internal flights between your destinations, to avoid long car journeys dodging speeding trucks and getting snarled up in Nairobi’s suburbs. To relax after your safari, Kenya also offers beautiful white sand beaches with palm trees on the Indian Ocean. Again do your research to avoid some of the insensitively developed coastal resorts.

Dale is a multi-award-winning writer and photographer with more than 500 published magazine articles featured in magazines such as National Geographic, BBC Wildlife, Travel Africa, and CNN Travel.

The pinnacle of iconic African everything…

Kenya has a reputation as the primary African Safari destination, and I can’t find myself arguing against that. If you yearn, as I do, for vast open landscapes dotted with acacia trees under which cheetahs lounge and lions roar, then the Maasai Mara is a top pick for you. The country boasts a plethora of diverse and amazing parks, all of which have their own particular flavours, landscapes, cultures and wildlife. Take Amboseli for instance, a scenic wonderland where you will taste the dust, breathe the ambience, and touch the soul of the African wilderness in its purest form. You’ve likely seen the postcards… A grand old tusker stands beneath a tree; the flat-topped snow-covered peak of Kilimanjaro forming the perfect backdrop. It’s magical, and I really do love this place. Then there is Lake Nakuru, a relatively small park, but one which I highly recommend due to the presence of hundreds of thousands of flamingoes. Again, you have probably seen the pictures of rhinos, lions, and buffalo grazing on grassy fields with a mass of elegant pink birds behind. Of course, the Mara River crossings are one of nature’s great events, and even though sometimes the chaos, tragedy, and dare I say it ‘horror’ can be overwhelming, the sights and sounds of a million wildebeest hurtling through dust and water is something one never forgets. Throughout Kenya, there are lodging choices galore, ranging from cheap backpacker-style digs with minibus safaris, all the way up to apex-luxury and privately guided safaris in concession areas where tourist numbers are kept deliberately low. And once you tire of the bush, Kenya has numerous beach destinations such as Diani Beach, Malindi, and Lamu Island, to name but a few. If I have one criticism of Kenya, it’s that the parks can sometimes get overcrowded, and not everyone obeys the rules.

Average Expert Rating

Rating breakdown, safari tours to kenya.

5-Day Mara, Nakuru & Naivasha Midrange Private Safari

$1,375 to $1,925 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Tented Camp & Hotel

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Lake Naivasha (Naivasha) , Nairobi (End)

Hyrax Safaris

4.9 /5  –  250 Reviews

7-Day The Great Southern Savannah Economical Safari

$1,958 to $2,379 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Amboseli NP, Lake Naivasha (Naivasha) , Lake Nakuru NP, Masai Mara NR, Nairobi (End)

Mufasa Tours and Travels

4.9 /5  –  385 Reviews

10-Day Luxury Kenya Safari Tour

$7,723 to $9,343 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Samburu NR, Mara North (Greater Masai Mara) , Diani Beach, Nairobi (End)

Wayfairer Travel

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

• Kenya Private Safari
• Destinations
• Kenya Safari Holidays

PLAN YOUR CUSTOM PRIVATE SAFARI TO KENYA

Private guiding is widely available throughout Kenya , either with local guides in specific safari areas, or with specialist private guides who host you across multiple destinations throughout your time in Kenya. You may wish to consider a Kenya private safari if you are experienced on safari, have specialist wildlife interests or would simply like to prioritise the flexibility and exclusivity that a private safari will offer.

There are also a number of completely private safari houses or family suites which can provide very exclusive and flexible safari experiences. Naturally, private safari houses and suites are perfect for families or groups of friends travelling together.

Kenya Private Guided Safaris Trips: Private Vehicles & Activities

Whilst it is very possible to book your entire Kenya safari to be hosted by one private guide, we often recommend combining a few different private guides who each specialise in their particular geographical areas. For example, an itinerary combining three different safari regions could include a private guide in each area. The benefit of this approach is to get the best guiding for each region and to enjoy a more varied overall experience. Some of the local guides are truly exceptional, especially when it comes to detailed knowledge on the local landscape and wildlife, and they usually offer a deeper cultural experience too. This style of private safari is also usually less expensive as you are not paying for extra travel and accommodation costs for a freelance private guide.

This style of private safari tends to be very appealing to more experienced safari travellers who have specific interests such as birding or photography , or to travellers that just prefer higher levels of exclusivity and personal service.

Where to stay for a private Kenya safari

Whilst it is usually possible to pay extra for private guiding and activities in most safari camps and lodges we recommend in Kenya, some properties will actually give each set of guests their own private guide and vehicle at no extra cost. This can be viewed as a significant advantage when deciding where to stay. The following Kenya safari accommodation includes the exclusive use of a guide and vehicle as standard:

OL PEJETA SAFARI COTTAGES

SERIAN ‘THE ORIGINAL’

NGARE SERIAN

SERIAN’s NKOROMBO MOBILE

As mentioned above, there are also several great options for entirely private safaris, whether that is staying in exclusive safari houses or private safari camps. Some good examples are:

SErian’s Kimya Kimya

OL MALO HOUSE

COTTAR’S BUSH VILLA

Kenya private safari guides.

Taking things one step further, it is possible to hire specialist ‘private guides’ in Kenya. Historically, the safari industry in East Africa developed from privately guided safaris, and it is still common today to find reputed specialist guides hosting families and groups on a private basis. This can be within the framework of permanent camps and lodges, or combined with a luxury mobile tented safari, where permanent lodges are visited for a few nights while your private camp is moved from one region to another.

With many years’ experience as a leading Africa specialist, we know personally and have worked with a wide range of specialist and professional guides. While we do not promote ‘hand holding’ just for the sake of it, the benefits of travelling with a top quality private guide are not limited to just their guiding qualities and the wildlife experience, but extend to encompass your whole safari experience. Hosting at meal times, smoothing your way through transfer arrangements and telling entertaining stories of Africa around the camp fire all fall under the remit of a top private guide.

If you feel that you would appreciate private activities during your safari, or would like to consider hiring a specialist private guide for all or part of your safari, please advise us when you speak to us. We are very flexible and all our safari itineraries are individually tailored to suit personal requirements. Different regions present different opportunities, so we will simply work with you to include the level of exclusivity and guiding that you desire.

To start planning your luxury Kenya private safari or if you are interested in finding out more about Kenya private guides, please call our friendly and knowledgeable team on +44 (0) 1787 888590 to discuss your requirements, or email us via our Contact Us page.

Kenya is one of Africa’s most popular destinations, it is often credited with developing the modern tourist safari, so much so that the word safari even comes from Swahili, the official Kenyan language. Kenya offers a unique and classical style of safari that brings to mind colonial era explorations of Africa’s interior, just with a lot more comfort and none of the hardship! From romantic honeymoons to family adventures all the way through to the hardcore safari there is something for everyone.

The Masaai Mara is possibly the most famous national park in the whole of Africa and every year plays host to the incredible Wildebeest migration, one of the most amazing spectacles on the planet, however, the Masaai Mara is worth visiting even without this event being home to some of the highest density of big cats in Africa.

There are a number of other fantastic wilderness areas in Kenya that are comparatively unknown and have far fewer visitors, yet still offer world class safaris and interesting cultural experiences, our favourites are Samburu for the incredible arid landscapes and fantastic nomadic people, Meru for untamed wilds and Laikipia and Lewa’s dedication to conservation, family run properties and an array of activities.

To talk about your perfect tailor made Africa holiday call us today on 01747 445060 or send us an email.

Top Kenya itineraries

A short break to Africa, a great safari and beach break offering superb value.

Masai Mara and Beach

Best Value Safari

Duration: 7 nights Guide price: £3,135

A luxury exploration of two of Kenya’s best safari areas and the coast.

Kenya in Style

Classic Safari

Duration: 12 nights Guide price: £7,570

A fantastic safari combination of two great properties in central Kenya.

Central Kenya Exploration

Duration: 9 nights Guide price: £8,870

A great combination of two stunning properties in very different areas.

Masai Mara and Laikipia

Duration: 7 nights Guide price: £5,190

A fast paced safari visiting three of Kenya’s top safari areas in style!

Kenya Highlights Safari

Superior Safari

Duration: 7 nights Guide price: £7,130

If you are interested in a safari in Kenya get in touch today and let us design your perfect trip. Call us on 01747 445060 or email us.

Kenya Destinations

Laikipia and Lewa

Top Kenya Camps

Enkewa Mara

Masai Mara, Kenya

Perfect for those looking for an incredible value safari option that offers a small, comfortable and personal camp in one of the quietest areas of the Masai Mara.

Saruni Samburu

Samburu, Kenya

Perfect for luxury in the wilderness, one of our favourite areas of Kenya with fewer visitors but great wildlife and stunning accommodation

Laikipia, Kenya

Perfect for a truly experiential stay in an amazing location and hosted by a charismatic and engaging family making you feel like this is your home in Africa.

Alex Walker’s Serian

Perfect for safari enthusiasts looking for one of the most authentic and exclusive tented camp experiences available in Kenya today.

• Destinations
• Safari Type
• Experiences

Email Address *

KENT Specialists Safaris

Authentic Africa Travel Experience

Find Your Best Safari Package

Search for a trip, destination, kent specialists safaris.

Kent Specialists Safaris is a Kenyan tour company comprising a team of highly trained and experienced tour managers. Our range of services includes providing tours, safaris, cultural, and adventure holidays across East Africa . Kent Specialists Safaris is officially registered in Nairobi, Kenya, dedicated to offering travel-related services in the tourism, hospitality, and leisure industry.

Our team is supported by a proficient group of multilingual professional driver-cum-guides who will accompany you on your safaris. We ensure they are extensively trained to provide an authentic experience. They are members of the Kenya Professional Safari Guide Association and hold bronze and silver medals, demonstrating their expertise in Flora, Fauna, History, Geography, and culture.

Adventure Activities

That’s what we do our best to create a custom experience from your wish list whether it’s adventuring out on the massive savannah, watching the sunset from your own camp, working hand with you and helping with the local community for more experience

Wildlife Safaris in Kenya

One of the most sought-after adventures in Africa. It is a dream come true to many and we are here to make that happen most exceptionally and distinctively Possible.

Accommodation Booking

We circumspect and furnish with you Accommodation Options depending on your budget and interest.

Balloon Safaris

Against a backdrop of stunning sunrises, hot-air balloon flights in the Masai Mara will give you a quirky vantage point of the abundant wildlife living below.

Honeymoon Packages

We at Kent Specialists Safaris understand the assignment that, beauty inspires romance.

Mountaing Climbing

If you have a particular Mountain you want to conquer? Reach out to us and we will be more than happy to be at your service.

Cultural Safaris

East Africa is of course, about wildlife, but most tourists, are equally interested in the continent and its people.

Amazing Magical Kenya Packages

The big 5, a beautiful diversity of landscapes, animals, bird and plant life and fascinating cultures. Kenya is endowed with all these and more.

8 Day Summer Holiday

6 Day Safari Masai Mara & Zanzibar Extension

6 Day Classic Wildlife Safari and Zanzibar

3 Day Affordable Safari Through the Best National Parks

5-Day Comfort Safari Experience

9 Day Bush to Beach – Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Beach

Discounted rates.

The diversity of game in Kenya is simply astounding. From the big five to the small five, Kenya’s game parks, reserves and other wildlife protection areas host some of the wildest game thus the reason why this is home for the safari.

TripAdvisor Multiple Award winning company

We've received Certificate of Excellence award from TripAdvisor, the world's largest travel website.

100% Customizable

Tell us about your trip requirement. We'll work together to customize your trip to meet your exact requirement so that you have a memorable trip.

Local Experts. Middle-man Free Pricing

We're a local travel agency. When you book with us, you get best possible price, which is middle-man free.

No Hidden Charges

We don't add hidden extras cost. All trips include travel permit, lodging and fooding. There are no surprises with hidden costs.

Craft Your Dream Safari with Kenya Safaris Experiences

Who are we.

We are a local travel agency with over a decade of experience in creating unforgettable experiences for our clients. With our extensive knowledge, personalized service, and meticulous attention to detail, we ensure that every journey is a memorable one. Whether you're seeking a relaxing beach vacation, an adventurous trek in the mountains, or a cultural immersion in a vibrant city, our team of seasoned travel professionals possesses the expertise to design the perfect itinerary tailored to your unique interests, preferences, and budget.

Our team comprises certified travel specialists, local guides, and industry veterans who have a profound understanding of the destinations we serve. We take pride in our commitment to continuous professional development, ensuring that our knowledge remains current and our service offerings are at the forefront of industry trends.

Furthermore, we have forged long-standing partnerships with a global network of trusted and reputable partners, including luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and renowned tour operators. These collaborations enable us to offer a wide range of destinations, accommodations, transportation options, and immersive activities, ensuring that every aspect of your journey is curated to the highest standards.

From meticulously planned guided tours to off-the-beaten-path excursions, we pride ourselves on our ability to craft seamless and enriching travel experiences that cater to the discerning traveler. Our commitment to excellence has earned us numerous industry accolades and a reputation for delivering exceptional service, making us the premier choice for those seeking truly unforgettable adventures.

Why Choose Kenya Safaris Experiences?

Unforgettable Encounters, Untamed Beauty: Discover Kenya's Hidden Gems

Expert Local Knowledge

Our team of experienced travel experts has extensive local knowledge, ensuring that you get insider tips and recommendations to make the most out of your travel experience.

Personalized Services

We believe in tailoring your travel experience to your unique preferences. Our personalized services ensure that every aspect of your trip is customized to meet your needs and desires.

Competitive Prices

We offer competitive prices without compromising on quality. Our goal is to provide you with the best value for your money, making your travel experience affordable and memorable.

24/7 Support

We understand that travel can come with unexpected challenges. That's why our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist you and ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

Testimonials

See Why They Choose Us: Unbiased Customer Experiences

Kenya Safari Experiences: dream-worthy safaris, breathtaking landscapes, and genuine adventures. Unforgetable memories await! 🦓🌍🌟

Kenya Safaris Experiences delivered an incredible journey, blending adventure and nature seamlessly. Highly recommend!

Accreditations & Affiliations

Building Trust & Expertise: Our Accreditations & Affiliations

• Sign up to Newsletter

Travel Information

Discover the wonders of east africa's culture, beauty and wildlife by choosing one of safari guru's short safaris in kenya..

Whether you're travelling to Kenya for business or pleasure or to support one of the world's excellent courses, such as World Jenny's Day Safari Cycle Fundraiser Ride 2024 , you have a world of opportunity to discover the wonders of East Africa's wildlife with one of Safari Guru's short safaris in Kenya.

Choose from our handcrafted collection of short safaris in Kenya, tailored to suit different preferences and interests and still flexible to add more days or swap destinations. Whether you're seeking indulgence and relaxation or specialist activities like wildlife photography and walking safaris, our selection of properties ensures a perfect balance between professional commitments and wildlife exploration.

Kenya is a land of extraordinary beauty, ethnic culture and mesmerising wildlife. It doesn't matter if you're in the country for a conference or personal commitments; why not extend your stay and embark on an unforgettable safari adventure with Safari Guru?

Extend your trip and immerse yourself in a quick, easy, and fulfilling safari experience. Safari Guru offers luxury and classic safari camp accommodations in iconic game reserves, carefully selected to provide authentic safari experiences amidst Kenya's rich biodiversity.

Tailored Safari Experiences: Each of our short safaris in Kenya itineraries is fully customisable to suit your dates and travel preferences.

With Safari Guru's short safaris in Kenya, you can make the most of your time in East Africa and embark on unforgettable wildlife adventures.

While we present various pre-designed packages below, we're eager to customise your safari to match your unique taste and preferences. With numerous options available, the possibilities are vast and varied. Contact your Safari Guru  African travel specialist  and share your travel preferences for rates and availability of the most suitable safari camps and lodges over your expected travel time.

Safari Guru's short safaris in Kenya: Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

Lewa, spanning 45,000 acres, is a distinguished private game ranch situated 30 miles north of the equator, nestled at the foothills of Mt. Kenya. It proudly hosts the renowned Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, featuring limited private houses and camps, ensuring an exceptionally exclusive game viewing experience. Recognised as one of Africa's premier rhino-watching destinations, the reserve not only houses the Big Five but also boasts the world's largest population of the rare Grevy's zebra and other unique northern species. Activities abound, ranging from horseback riding, scenic flights, and night drives to walking safaris, camel riding, and photographic hides.

A selection of Safari Guru's preferred lodges in Lewa Wildlife Conservancy: Lewa Safari Camp , Lewa Wilderness , Lewa House and Sirikoi Lodge

Alternatively, should you have more time, why not combine Lewa with another premier wildlife destination? Lewa connects well with the Maasai Mara National Reserve.

Safari Guru's short safaris in Kenya: Maasai Mara

Affectionately known as "The Mara," this impressive expanse of protected land is widely acclaimed as one of Africa's premier wildlife sanctuaries. The Mara forms part of the Greater Serengeti , spanning two countries, including Tanzania, and hosts some of Africa's most incredible wildlife phenomena. Essentially, the Mara serves as the northern extension of the Serengeti ecosystem, hosting the extraordinary natural spectacle known as the Great Wildebeest Migration. Over a million animals make their way through the areas in search of fresh grazing between the months of August and October each year.

The stunning backdrop of the Siria Escarpment in the west provides a captivating view of vast savannas, riverine woodlands, and forests across a deceptively flat landscape, studded with free-roaming wildlife, including all of Africa's big cats, such as cheetah, lion and Leopard.

A selection of Safari Guru's preferred lodges in the Maasai Mara: Governors' Camp , Mara Expedition Camp , Rekero Camp . And for high-end luxury options, offering elevated service levels and private vehicles,  Mara Plains Camp , Angama Mara , and Mara Nyika Camp

Safari Guru's short safaris in Kenya: Beach Extension

Kenya's coastline is a paradise waiting to be explored, and at its heart lies the stunning Diani Beach. Nestled along the Indian Ocean, Diani Beach is renowned for its pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, making it a haven for sun-seekers, water sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers.

Visitors to Diani Beach can indulge in various activities, from snorkelling and scuba diving to kite surfing and dolphin watching. The beach also offers opportunities for relaxation, with plenty of beachfront resorts and spas where you can unwind and soak up the tropical ambience.

Diani Beach boasts an array of exquisite lodges and resorts for those seeking a luxurious stay as an add-on to your short safari in Kenya. From boutique hotels to eco-friendly lodges, accommodation suits every taste and budget. Many of these lodges offer stunning ocean views, private beach access, and world-class amenities, ensuring a truly unforgettable stay.

Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a slice of paradise, Diani Beach and its lodge offerings provide the perfect escape for tourists looking to experience the beauty of Kenya's coastline.

Alfajiri Cliff Villa is one of Safari Guru's all-time favourites along this magnificent coastline.

Like the Serengeti in Tanzania, Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve becomes part of the ‘great migration’, a never-ending circle of life followed by over a million animals. The infamous river crossings, with giant scavenging crocodiles and countless wildebeest charging across the Mara Rivers steep banks into the perilous waters below,   are the most prominent happenings associated with this mind-blowing event.

The  great wildebeest migration , with millions of grazing animals moving from the  Serengeti National Park  to the Mara, usually starts to arrive in the Mara towards the end of June and leaves by early October. Another smaller migration of wildebeest takes place from the Loita plains through the Mara Conservancies, starting in Ol Kinyei in February and March (when calving takes place) and then moving during the following weeks through Naboisho and Olare Motorogi Conservancies towards the Mara Reserve.

Email the team at Safari Guru with your preferred destinations in Kenya, and we will share a comprehensive list of lodges and camps offering the best safari guides and services, as well as a suggested itinerary to meet your safari journey budget and expectations.    EMAIL NOW ...

Kenya Airways and several other airlines offer daily connections to this part of East Africa , including Tanzania ,  Rwanda  and  Zanzibar . Kenyan safaris and experiences complement and connect well with primate trekking and beach and island holidays. Let Safari Guru guide you on a well-rounded and rewarding safari experience.

Family Safari Specialists

If you’re dreaming of Africa, your journey has already begun!

EXPERIENCES

• Southern Africa
• East Africa
• Islands of Africa
• Primate Safaris

SOCIAL MEDIA

• Privacy Policy
• Press Requests

REQUEST YOUR PERSONALISED ITINERARY

Answer a few simple questions to start planning your safari, and we will contact you and provide you with a personalised itinerary absolutely free.

Where would you like to travel?

What time of year, how long would you like to travel for, how many people in your party, do you have a budget per person.

Yes, I accept

Contact us for your Safari Vacation

Let us take the stress and hassle out of your booking process.

Get the latest

Read about the amazing adventures through Africa

Jossec Tours & Safaris | Kenya Safari Specialist Group Budget safaris

3 days masai mara joining safari, 4 days masai mara joining safari, 4-day masai mara-lake nakuru, 5 days masai mara-lake nakuru & naivasha., 7 days mara-lake nakuru-amboseli., 8-days samburu nakuru masai mara naivasha & amboseli, most visited safaris discover top-rated tours and safaris, 3 days great migration safari., 1 day nairobi excursions., 8 days safari package, 3 days amboseli safari, 12 days best of kenya & tanzania safari., 11 days mara/nakuru/samburu/amboseli/tsavo, plan the vacation of your dreams jossec safaris will give you a satisfying scenic african safari full of adventure and an extraordinary lifetime experience. jossec safaris offers affordable camping and luxury safari tour package to the most beautiful unexplored east african parks .book with us and you will have a holiday of a lifetime. we are excited to offer a wide range of different safari packages that can be tailored to your unique preferences. we can accommodate different interests, budgets, and timeframes to create the perfect safari package for each traveler or group of travellers. you can find us on, jossec reviews travel with confidence, highly recommended., francis kenya september 2017, ottimo safari in kenia organisato da jossec tours., grace italy september 2017, was once in a life time experience,i loved it., peter uk september 2017, one of the best tours i have had., james usa september 2017, safari tour with jossec tour n safaris, timothy qatar september 2017.

Helpful Links

• General Conditions
• Safari Vehicles

happy to be trusted by:

Color switcher.

• Photography

Kenya Photography Safaris

A diverse world through the lense.

“Photography” and “travel to Africa” are two activities that are inextricably linked together due to the stunning visual locations available, the magical African light and the variety of superb subjects to capture on film. As a specialist operator to Kenya for over 10 years we have been asked more and more for opportunities for clients who are both knowledgeable and those that are new to photography if there are any trips we offer that are more specialised and include help with the use of the equipment as well as guides who are versed in photography.

Fortunately, as one of the most prolifically filmed and photographed countries in Africa, with the long running presence of the BBC and the Big Cat Diaries, there are plenty of great opportunities for photographers in Kenya. Below we have discussed a few of the best ways to make the most of your trip!

A Private Vehicle For Limited Periods

Definitely one of the preferred options for many of our clients is simply to pay a supplement to have your own vehicle and driver for a few of the days of your safari itinerary. Many of the properties throughout Kenya have this as an option these days with the approximate cost running to around the U per day mark. Many of the guides are keen photographers themselves and so, while this is definitely for the more experienced photographer, they can offer help with positioning, apertures and other tips on photographer out here.

A Private Vehicle Throughout

As a slight variation on the above, rather than having a driver/guide from the property you are staying in, you can also look to have your own vehicle for the duration of your itinerary. This option does give you the freedom to do exactly as you like and we have a great range of guides who understand things like positioning of the vehicle. This option does tend to involve more driving between destinations but for visiting places like Lake Nakuru and Naivasha is essential.

A Photography Workshop

Definitely aimed at the more amateur photographer, there are also photography workshop trips that are operated out of certain properties (such as Kicheche Main Camp and Rekero, both in the Masai Mara), that offer both a full, photographic safari, but with sessions in the evenings to run through some of the photos of the day and to offer expert advise on where photos and techniques can be improved. A great example of this is the week long work shop hosted in Little Governors’ Camp in the Mara with Jonathan and Angie Scott who are famed for the BBC Big Cat diaries amongst other accolades.

Photography Lodge

More and more of the properties in Africa are recognising the need to help photographers with the restrictive luggage allowances and the specialist equipment that is required for photography in Africa and so a few of them now offers things like specialist vehicles and even free use of long range photography lenses as part of their rates. This can, obviously, be a very big draw in your decision as to where to stay. Take a look at Alex Walker’s Serian Camp or Ol Donyo Lodge in the Chyulu Hills.

Best camps for photography safaris:

Little Governors Camp , Porini Camp , Ol Donyo Lodge , Great Plains Camp

When to go to Kenya for photography:

  = Yes   = No   = Maybe

Further reading...

• › Luxury African Safari
• › Africa Honeymoon
• › Best time to visit Africa
• › Kenya Photography Safaris

Get a Quote »

Why book with us.

We can help:

• Fully tailormade itineraries
• Guaranteed best price or price match
• Personal knowledge of everywhere we sell
• Personal service, 24/7
• We're ATOL bonded

Call us direct on: UK: +44 1525 840 149 US: +1-917-336-2937

The best regions for Kenya Photography:

Amboseli National Park

Samburu National Reserve

The Laikipia Plateau

The Masai Mara

Our top five kenya photography lodges:.

Mara Plains

Saruni Samburu

Angama Mara

Rekero Camp

Tortilis Camp

To see our full list of top photography hotels & lodges in kenya click here..., our top five travel itineraries for kenya photography:.

Honeymooners Delight

This itinerary contains a collection of remote and romantic camps in three Kenya's best parks and coast resorts...

Lions and Elephants

Go On, It Will Be Worth It!

The Discerning Safari

Plateaus and Plains

To see our full list of photography itineraries click here....