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• 10 days in Kenya — 5 travel itineraries

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Offering an exhilarating blend of wildlife safaris, cultural experiences, outdoor adventuring, and visits to iconic natural attractions (hello, Mount Kilimanjaro!), tours of Kenya are nothing but varied and undeniably memorable. But with so much to see and do, planning your trip can take some work, which is where this run-down of 10 day itineraries in Kenya will come in handy. Read on to find out about five unforgettable itineraries that’ll help you make the most of your trip.

Is 10 days enough for Kenya?

Itinerary #1: bush to beach safari, itinerary #2: classic kenya explorer, itinerary #3: best of kenya and tanzania, itinerary #4: off-the-beaten-path kenya, itinerary #5: ultimate kenyan safari, tailor-made travel itineraries for kenya, created by local experts.

11 days  / from 3089 USD

Bush To Beach Safari

Explore Kenya's vast national parks such as Lake Nakuru, the famous Maasai Mara and the well-known 'red' elephants in the Tsavo National Park. After a few days of waking up early to spot wildlife, relax on the fine sandy beaches of Diani in the Mombasa area.

10 days  / from 4059 USD

Best of Kenya & Tanzania

A fascinating trip across the Maasai Mara and the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Areas in Kenya and Tanzania. Learn more about the traditions and cultures of the Maasai and stare in awe at the wild roaming wildlife on your several game drives in different national parks.

7 days  / from 2791 USD

Family Safari in Kenya

Take your (grand)children and embark on the adventure of a (family) lifetime: 7 days in Kenya, with up-close animal encounters, game drives to see the Big 5 and plenty of fun day activities.

While 10 days can provide a fantastic overview of Kenya's highlights, whether it's "enough" depends on your personal preferences and what you hope to see and do during your trip.

On balance, though, for many travellers, 10 days is enough time to explore some of Kenya's key destinations, such as the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, and Tsavo National Park. With careful planning, you can enjoy multiple days of wildlife safaris and cultural experiences, along with visits to iconic natural landmarks (hello again, Mount Kilimanjaro!)

That said, Kenya is a diverse country, with plenty to  see and do after your safaris . For example, depending on your personal interests, you might also want to include Aberdare Mountains, Samburu National Reserve and Lake Naivasha, not least if you’re into bird-watching and hiking. 

Love  beautiful beaches ? You’ll also want to factor in spending time in coastal areas like Diani Beach.

It goes without saying that longer trips allow for a more relaxed pace of travel, giving you more time to savour each destination. So, while a 10 day itinerary in Kenya might be long enough to see everything on your wish-list, it’s also worth weighing up the benefits of not trying to pack too much in.

Want to make your planning experience easier? Read on for a run-down of five top 10-day itineraries in Kenya, and check out customisable Kenya itineraries .

You could also contact our local experts to forgo the hassle of planning and booking,

You could opt to start your 10 day itinerary in Kenya in Nairobi National Park © mbrand85/Shutterstock

True to its name, this 10-day itinerary in Kenya takes you from the bush of vast national parks such as Lake Nakuru, Maasai Mara and Tsavo National Park, to beautiful Diani Beach.

On day one  of this diversely rewarding trip, you’ll depart your base hotel in Nairobi for a stay in the world-celebrated Treetops Lodge. Built at the head of an ancient elephant migration trail, its observation deck overlooks a watering hole visited by elephants, rhinos, buffalos, and much more. How’s that for a special start to your trip? 

Day two will see you journey to the Great Rift Valley to visit Lake Nakuru National Park, where you might get to see black and white rhinos, baboons, leopards and lions on a game drive.

Come day three , the magic of the Maasai Mara awaits. On arrival, you’ll experience an afternoon and sunset game drive to see big cats, elephants, giraffes and more. 

Day four will see you rise early to experience a legendary Maasai Mara sunrise and champagne breakfast before heading out for a full-day safari.

For extra adventure, you could add a hot air balloon safari to your trip plans, or relax in your lodge for a few hours before heading back out when the temperatures have cooled. 

On day five , you’ll transfer from the Maasai Mara to Amboseli National Park. Come lunchtime, you’ll be served fine local food with fine views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and have time to see its famed elephant herds.

Rise early on day six to see another breath-taking sunrise before heading to Tsavo East National Park.

Day seven will see the safari segment of your adventure come to an end as you transfer to Diani Beach area for the remainder of your trip. 

Expect day eight, day nine and day ten of your bush-to-beach adventure to be filled with swimming in blissfully warm waters, enjoying water sports, and taking local cultural tours. Book this trip .

Diani Beach, Kenya © Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Read on for an overview of this 10 day Kenya itinerary.

• Arrive in Nairobi, transfer to Treetops Lodge.
• Overnight in Treetops Lodge.
• Travel to Lake Nakuru National Park and enjoy a game drive.
• Overnight in a hotel near the park.
• Transfer to the Maasai Mara and enjoy an afternoon and sunset game drive.
• Overnight in Ol-Maran camp.
• Sunrise champagne breakfast followed by a full-day safari in the Maasai Mara, with optional hot air balloon safari.
• Transfer to Amboseli National Park.
• Overnight in Kimana Camp Amboseli.
• Explore Tsavo East National Park.
• Transfer to Diani Beach.
• Overnight in Diani Beach.
• Relax and take tours around Diani Beach.

Day 10 

• Relax around Diani Beach before heading to the airport.

Ready to see Kenya? Book this trip today.

Lake Nakuru, Kenya © Shutterstock

This Classic Kenya Explorer itinerary takes in a rich mix of culture and wildlife, with a spot of beach time breaking things up in the middle.

You’ll spend day one and day two of your trip in Nairobi, where visiting the Nairobi National Museum and the Karen Blixen Museum are among the best things to do .

On day three , transfer to Amboseli National Park, where you’ll spend the rest of the day and day four  on game drives delivering epic views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

On day five on your adventure, you’ll move to Tsavo West National Park for more thrilling game drives. On day six , expect to see the park’s incredible landscapes — out-of-this-world lava flows and Mzima Springs — alongside more unforgettable wildlife.

After all that adventure, the bliss of Diani Beach awaits on day seven and day eight . Take the opportunity to relax in the pool or sea before heading to Masai Mara National Reserve for the last leg of this trip.

On day nine, enjoy a couple of game drives, and visit a Maasai village on day ten — what a way to wind up your trip. Book this trip . 

Maasai, Kenya © Thomas Brissiaud/Shutterstock

• Arrive in Nairobi, explore the city. 
• Overnight in Nairobi.
• Visit Nairobi’s museums.
• Overnight near Amboseli National Park.
• Game drives in Amboseli National Park.
• Transfer to Tsavo West National Park.
• Overnight near Tsavo West National Park.
• Game drives in Tsavo West National Park.
• Overnight in a Diani Beach hotel/resort.
• Relax in Diani Beach.
• Transfer to Maasai Mara National Reserve.
• Overnight near the Maasai Mara National Reserve.
• Maasai Mara National Reserve game drives/village visit.

Zebra in Tsavo National Park, Kenya © ANTONIO JIMENO JIMENEZ/Shutterstock

Doing exactly what it says on the tin, this best of Kenya and Tanzania itinerary takes in the wonders of the Maasai Mara, and the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Areas across Kenya and Tanzania. 

The experience begins with spending day one and your first night in Nairobi. Come day two , transfer south to the Maasai Mara. After stopping en route to soak up views of the Great Rift Valley, you’ll arrive in time for lunch in the park and your first game drive.

On day three , more game drive adventures await. You’ll rise at dawn before heading into the park on a safari jeep, or enjoying a hot air balloon safari. 

Day four will see you move to Lake Victoria in and overnight in Speke Bay Lodge, which is stunningly sited on the south-eastern shore of the lake in Tanzania.

The Serengeti awaits on day five,  when you’ll game drive through the western zone of the National Park and overnight in the Central Serengeti — an area that’s known for its big cat population.

Day six will see you experience a sunrise safari followed by an exploration of the Ndutu region and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This will see you visit the shores of Lake Ndutu and Lake Masek, where wildebeests await.

The next stage of your trip will see you travel to the Ngorongoro Crater on day seven . Often hailed the eighth wonder of the world, this area is one of the world’s most desirable safari locations, with the Big Five calling it home.

Culture and adventure awaits on day eight , when you’ll travel south to the Kilimanjaro foothills and stay in the Maasai-run Africa Amini Lodge — the perfect place to learn about Maasai culture.

Day nine heralds the start of your trip back to Kenya, and elephant adventures in Amboseli National Park. On your afternoon game drive you’ll most likely also get to see wildebeest, zebras, lions and hyenas ­— and more.

Day ten will see you rise early to see Kilimanjaro at dawn before enjoying one last game drive and returning to Nairobi. Book this trip .

Wildebeest jumping into Mara River © Shutterstock

• Arrive and overnight in Nairobi.
• Transfer to the Maasai Mara.
• Overnight in Mara Leisure Camp.
• Maasai Mara game drives.
• Transfer to Lake Victoria.
• Overnight in Speke Bay Lodge, Tanzania.
• Explore the western Serengeti.
• Overnight in the Central Serengeti.
• Sunrise safari and exploring to the Ndutu region and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
• Overnight in Kati Kati Tented Camp in the south of Serengeti.
• Explore the Ngorongoro Crater.
• Overnight in Country Lodge, Northern Tanzania
• Transfer south to the Kilimanjaro foothills.
• Overnight in Africa Amini Lodge.
• Explore Amboseli National Park.
• Overnight in Kibo Safari Camp.
• Rise early to experience one more game drive before returning to Nairobi.

Why waste hours planning? Book this trip today. 

Ngorongoro crater wildlife, Tanzania © Travel Stock/Shutterstoc k

If you’re looking to see Kenya through a different lens, this off-the-beaten-track trip has your name all over it, not least if you’re into bird-watching and cultural experiences.

For example, day one could see you take a street art tour of Nairobi to see beyond the usual tourist attractions before transferring to Meru National Park on day two . 

Set against a backdrop of rolling hills, lush forests, and winding rivers, this is something of a hidden gem among Kenya’s national parks. As such, it offers a more intimate experience. On arrival, take time to see some of the site’s 400+ species of bird, and to visit Adamson’s Falls. 

On day three , enjoy more game drive adventures, or experience local culture. Communities around Meru National Park — including the Meru and Kikuyu tribes — offer cultural tours that offer insights into local traditions and ways of life.

Come day four , head to Aberdare National Park. Alongside enjoying a game drive on day five , don’t miss the chance to enjoy a night-time nature and wildlife tour.

Next, Lake Bogoria’s geysers and hot springs await on day six. Nestled in the heart of Kenya's Rift Valley, this is a spectacular destination for adventurers who want to soak up the raw beauty of nature. 

Renowned for its geothermal activity, the lake hosts over 200 hot springs and geysers, and it also known for its vibrant flamingo population.

You'll spend day seven and day eight in   Kakamega Forest. Located in western Kenya, this lush, equatorial jungle offers a unique ecological experience — it’s distinctly different from the savannahs and arid landscapes commonly associated with the country. 

With 300+ bird species, Kakamega Forest is a birdwatcher's dream, and a haven for primates. Get lucky, and you might also catch a rare sighting of a bush pig, giant forest hedgehog, and tree pangolin.

In addition, Kakamega offers a network of trails you can explore at your own pace. Highlights include the Isiukhu Falls and Lirhanda Hill.

On day nine , travel to Kisumu to see the wonder of the Dunga Boardwalk. This hidden gem offers a serene escape from which you can witness the rich biodiversity of Lake Victoria's shores. 

Another haven for birdwatchers, the Dunga Wetland, adjacent to the boardwalk, is a conservation effort that showcases the importance of preserving natural habitats. 

Finally, transfer back to Nairobi on day ten before flying home. Book this trip . 

Lake Victoria, Kenya © Shutterstock

• Take a street art tour in Nairobi.
• Transfer to Meru National Park and visit Adamson's Falls.
• Overnight near Meru National Park.
• Go on a game drive in Meru National Park.
• Transfer to Aberdare National Park and take night-time nature tour.
• Go on game drives in Aberdare National Park.
• Transfer to Lake Bogoria to visit the geysers and hot springs.
• Overnight near Lake Bogoria.
• Transfer to Kakamega Forest to enjoy nature walks and bird-watching.
• Overnight near Kakamega Forest.
• Explore Kakamega Forest.
• Explore Kisumu and the Dunga Boardwalk.
• Overnight near Kisumu.
• Return to Nairobi for your flight home.

Pangolin © 2630ben/Shutterstock

Ultimate in name and epic in nature, this suggested 10 day itinerary in Kenya offers a rewarding blend of safari adventure, mind-blowingly diverse landscapes, and unforgettable cultural experiences. 

On arriving in Nairobi, spend day one  visiting the Nairobi Safari Walk. Located at the Kenya Wildlife Service headquarters, just a short drive from the city centre, this unique conservation-based recreational facility offers a glimpse of Kenya's vast wildlife diversity. 

Here an elevated boardwalk traverses different habitats — including savannah, wetlands, and forestry environments — affording opportunities to see rare animals, including the albino zebra, the bongo (an endangered forest antelope), white rhinos, and big cats.

On day two, journey to Tsavo East National Park to enjoy game drives in one of Kenya's largest and oldest parks. On day three , visit the segment of the Galana River that runs through the park. The river supports a rich ecosystem along its banks, providing water to elephants, lions, buffaloes, and a wide variety of other fauna and flora.

The wonders of Amboseli National Park await on day four  and day five. Located in southern Kenya near the Tanzanian border, it offers spectacular safari experiences with breath-taking scenery dominated by Mount Kilimanjaro.

Highlights include seeing huge herds of elephants, plus opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, hyenas and 400+ species of bird.   Book this trip . 

Top tip: don’t miss Observation Hill for panoramic views of the park.

Kilimanjaro © Shutterstock

Come day six, take time to explore Tsavo West National Park, with its rhino sanctuary and lave flow landscapes.

Next, spend day seven at Lake Naivasha. Nestled in the Great Rift Valley, this freshwater lake is known for its remarkable variety of birdlife. The best way to experience it is to book a boat safari, during which you can spot hippos lounging in the water, and observe an array of birdlife, including African fish eagles, herons, and pelicans. 

We also recommend hiking Hell’s Gate National Park. Just a short drive from Lake Naivasha, it offers spectacular scenery of towering cliffs, gorges, and geothermal steam vents. 

From here, head to Lake Nakuru National Park to spend day eight . Famous for its flamingos, it’s home to 450+ species of bird, and an unmissable rhino sanctuary.

For the last leg of your trip, spend day nine and day ten in the Maasai Mara National Reserve, where you can enjoy unforgettable game drives, explore the Mara River, and learn about Maasai culture.

Flamingos, Lake Nakuru, Kenya © Shutterstock

• Arrive in Nairobi and visit Nairobi Safari Walk.
• Travel to Tsavo East National Park.
• Overnight near Tsavo East National Park.
• Visit the Galana River in Tsavo East National Park.
• Travel to Amboseli National Park.
• Visit Tsavo West National Park.
• Visit Lake Naivasha for a boat safari, bird-watching and hiking at Hell's Gate.
• Overnight near Lake Naivasha.
• See flamingos and visit the rhino sanctuary in Lake Nakuru National Park.
• Overnight near Lake Nakuru National Park.
• Explore Maasai Mara National Reserve.
• Overnight in the reserve.

White-tailed eagle on Lake Naivasha © kyslynskahal/Shutterstock

Keen to visit Kenya? Read up on some of the best things to do in Kenya , and browse our customisable Kenya itineraries.

With a local expert on hand to take care of all the details, they take the hassle out of planning, leaving you to focus on counting down to your trip of a lifetime.

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 11.03.2024

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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A Magical Kenya Itinerary – Safaris, Cities & Beaches

Kenya is an incredible and diverse country, perfect for an introduction to African travel.

Kenya is one of those countries that really has it all – great safaris, excellent beaches, mountains, traditional culture and modern cities.

My ideal Kenya itinerary would involve some time on safari at the beginning of the trip, as well as time at the beach at the end of the trip. The options are endless, so here are a few ideas to get you started planning your own Kenya trip.

Please Note:  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate sales help with the running costs of this site, so thank you for your support!

Table of Contents

A Magical Kenya Itinerary (Plus Things To See & Do)

Here are a few ideas for what your itinerary could look like for 1, 2 and 3-week trips. I’ve written about all the destinations in more detail below so that you can build your own itinerary. You might want a more safari-focused Kenya itinerary, or you could do a little bit of safari and lots of beaches! The options are endless!  

Kenya Itinerary – 1 Week

• Day 1 – 2: Nairobi
• Day 3 – 5: The Masai Mara
• Day 6 – 7: Diani Beach, Kilifi, Mombasa or Lamu

Kenya Itinerary – 2 Weeks ( Option A)

• Day 3 – 6: The Masai Mara
• Day 7 – 8: Amboseli National Park
• Day 9 – 10: Mombasa or Diani Beach
• Day 11 – 12: Kilifi
• Day 13 – 14: Lamu

Kenya Itinerary – 2 Weeks ( Option B)

This is the itinerary for my Rock My Kenya Adventure – check it out here.

• Day 1: Nairobi
• Day 2 – 5: Samburu National Reserve
• Day 6 – 7: Ol Pejeta
• Day 8: Lake Nakuru
• Day 9 – 11: Masai Mara
• Day 12 – 14: Lamu

Kenya Itinerary – 3 Weeks

• Day 12 – 13: Amboseli National Park
• Day 14 – 15: Tsavo National Park 
• Day 16: Mombasa
• Day 17 – 18: Watamu or Malindi
• Day 19 – 21: Lamu Island

Other destinations you could add to your itinerary if you have more time include:

• Lake Turkana: 5 – 7 Days
• Mount Kenya National Park: 4 – 6 Days
• Lake Naivasha & Hell’s Gate National Park: 2 – 3 Days

Kenya Itinerary Map

Here’s a little visual guide to the places I mention above.

How to Get Around Kenya

One thing you need to consider when planning your Kenya itinerary is how you will get around.

Kenya is a relatively easy country to travel by public transport. There are good coaches between major cities, smaller minibuses known as matatus that go everywhere and even an excellent train network between Nairobi and Mombasa. There are also lots of taxis and in Nairobi, Uber is a popular way to get around.

However, if you are short on time, sometimes taking a Kenya group tour is a good option, saving you time (most importantly) and sometimes money, and you won’t waste precious time on your Kenya holiday trying to find groups to join.

I would try to avoid travelling by matatu for long journeys as they are not known for being the safest or most comfortable method of transport.

If you are heading up towards Lake Turkana, check the safety situation on the ground as you may need an armed escort to travel and between Malindi and Lamu, it is advisable to fly.

When To Visit Kenya

Kenya is best visited during the dry season from June to October. I would avoid the rainy season from mid-March to May. January and February can also be quite nice, although pretty hot in places.

If you’re hoping to see the Great Migration in the Masai Mara, July to September/October is usually the best time although sometimes the herds have arrived earlier, in June.

How Long To Spend in Kenya

On this Kenya itinerary, you’ll find a ton of different places to visit, as well as lots of things to do. Kenya has it all!

Kenya is a big country and it would be impossible to see it all in a one or two-week trip. But, in a couple of weeks, you can definitely get a good feel for the country.

Under each location, I’ve suggested the minimum amount of time I recommend you spend there. The full itinerary below would take around a month, but if you’re on a shorter trip, you can just miss certain places out.

For instance, Kenya is very safari heavy, so you could easily just pick 1 or 2 Kenya safari destinations and then spend the rest of your time soaking up the atmosphere in Nairobi or on the coast, near Mombasa.

Combining Kenya & Tanzania

People often ask me which is better – Kenya or Tanzania ? They can easily be combined in one trip, but again, these countries are huge, so you won’t be able to see everything in 2 weeks, but you’ll still be able to have an incredible trip either way.

My Kenya & Tanzania Adventure tour takes in the major highlights of both countries – so definitely consider that if you want to maximise your time and let someone else (me) sort out the logistics for you!

For further ideas, check out my suggested Kenya & Tanzania itinerary and my Tanzania itinerary .

Detailed Kenya Itinerary

Nairobi may seem a bit intimidating for a first-timer to Africa, but it’s actually a great city. The first time I visited I wasn’t that impressed as it just seemed crowded, busy and congested.

But I’ve been back many times since then and now it feels like home. It’s still crowded and hectic, but it is also vibrant, exciting and full of adventure, I just didn’t see it the first time around.

Nairobi is the perfect place to begin or end your Kenya trip and you can either head straight out of Nairobi and come back later or spend a few days there first before you go on safari.

How Many Days to Spend in Nairobi  

1 – 2 days. You could spend a night in Nairobi and then head straight out to other parts of the country, but there are lots of cool things to do in Nairobi too if you have time.

Things To Do in Nairobi

• Visit the Nairobi Giraffe Centre (they’re the same giraffes at Giraffe Manor).
• See the baby elephants at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
• Learn about Kenya’s tribes at Bomas of Kenya.
• Visit the Maasai markets.
• Go on safari in Nairobi National Park.
• Do a walking tour of the city.

Where to Stay in Nairobi

• Wildebeest Eco Camp : I often stay at Wildebeest Eco Camp which is a great place for groups and families. They have dorm tents too so perfect for solo travellers.
• After 40 : If you want to stay in the city centre, try After 40 for a mid-range option.
• Villa Rosa Kempinski : To treat yourself, stay in Villa Rosa Kempinski in the city centre.

Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve lies around 300km north of Nairobi on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River. 

Believe it or not, Samburu Reserve in Kenya was the first safari I ever went on back in 2009. I cried when I saw an elephant in the wild for the first time. It was such a special moment in my life.

I also visited Umoja Women’s Village, an initiative set up by a lady called Rebecca Lolosoli. The project was set up to help women and girls from the Samburu tribe who are the victims of violence from their husbands or forced into marriage with older men from a very young age.

If you don’t fancy the drive, you can fly up to Samburu from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport.

How Many Days to Spend in Samburu National Reserve

2 – 3 Days. As it’s a bit of a drive from Nairobi, I would recommend spending at least 2 – 3 nights there. It’s also a great place to stop if you are exploring Northern Kenya . and can easily be combined with a safari to Ol Pejeta Conservancy too.

Things To Do in Samburu National Reserve

• Go on safari in Samburu National Reserve or Buffalo Springs National Reserve on the other side of the river. The daily park fee covers you for both places. You can see my guide to Samburu National Reserve here .
• Visit the Umoja Women’s Village  (see a Youtube video about the village here ). It costs 1000 KES per person to visit for the day.  

Where to Stay in Samburu National Reserve

• Umoja Women’s Village: For a truly local experience, you can stay at the Umoja Women’s Village.
• Sabache Camp : Alternatively, I’d recommend Sabache Camp, a good mid-range option.
• Elephant Bedroom Camp : For a more high-end stay, have a look at the wonderful Elephant Bedroom Camp.

Lake Turkana

Remote Lake Turkana, also known as the ‘Jade Sea’, doesn’t find itself on many Kenya itineraries, but it can be an amazing adventure for the intrepid traveller, especially if you venture up there during the Lake Turkana Festival which takes place in June (usually – they have been known to move it).

The Lake Turkana Cultural Festival was created to help relations between the different tribes who live within the region and promote ‘cross-cultural interaction, harmony, cohesion, integration, cooperation and trading’.

At the festival, you will have the opportunity to observe and interact with people from around 14 remote Kenyan tribal groups, including the El Molo, Randille, Samburu and Turkana as well as learn about their way of life.

This is definitely something special if you can squeeze it into your Kenya itinerary. Just keep an eye on the safety warnings around the region and seek local advice before you drive up there.

How Many Days to Spend in Lake Turkana

5 – 7 days. The festival lasts for 3 days and it will probably take you a good couple of days to get up there and a couple of days to back down (even without stops), so allow a week altogether, unless you fly. Samburu, Mount Kenya or Ol Pejeta are good places to stop en route.

Things To Do in Lake Turkana

• See the Teleki Volcano.
• Go fishing on the lake.
• Visit some prehistoric sites.
• Take a boat ride on the lake.
• Go bird watching.
• Visit a local tribe.
• Take part in the Lake Turkana Festival.

Where to Stay in Lake Turkana

• Camping by Lake Turkana: The festival takes place in Loiyangalani. If you’re on a budget, camping is usually the best option – there is very little infrastructure so it is best to be self-sufficient.
• Malabo Resort : Don’t fancy camping try Malabo Resort.
• Eliye Springs Resort : On the other side of the lake, the most reliable option is Eliye Springs Resort.

Mount Kenya National Park

Near to the Samburu National Reserve lies Mount Kenya, Kenya’s highest mountain at 5,199 metres – in fact, it’s the second-highest mountain in Africa.

Reaching the summit requires technical climbing, so most trekkers head to the 3rd highest peak, Point Lenana which usually takes between 4 and 6 days. Shorter treks are also available. Most trekkers start from the town of Naro Moru.

If you’re feeling less energetic you can take a helicopter ride over the summit. Flights usually depart from Nanyuki.

How Many Days to Spend in Mount Kenya National Park

4 – 6 days if climbing the mountain. More if you want to stay somewhere close the night before and after your trek or want to visit some of the other nearby areas, less if you are just passing through and doing a day hike.

Things To Do in Mount Kenya National Park

• Hike or climb Mount Kenya.
• Take a helicopter ride over the summit.
• Visit the Ngare Ndare waterfall.
• Visit nearby Meru National Park.
• Visit the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.
• Visit Aberdare National Park.

Where to Stay in Mount Kenya National Park

• Noro Moru River Lodge : Some treks offer transfers from Nairobi but if you want to stay closer, try the Noro Moru River Lodge.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Ol Pejeta is one of my favourite places in Kenya . This privately-owned wildlife conservancy to the west of Mount Kenya National Park houses the largest population of the endangered black rhino in East Africa so sightings are pretty much guaranteed. 

There are so many great things to do in Ol Pejeta and it’s perfect for families. You can even go horse riding through the reserve, allowing you to get close to the animals without scaring them, that includes the rhinos.

The great thing about this conservancy is that you don’t have to be staying there to visit. You can just pay to visit for the day. One of the main highlights is the waterhole at Sweetwaters Serena Camp where you will often see rhinos coming to drink.

How Many Days to Spend in Ol Pejeta

1 – 2 days at the minimum. But I reckon you could easily spend longer! Plan your stay around the activities you want to do. You can read more about planning your trip in my Ol Pejeta travel guide .

Where to Stay in Ol Pejeta

• Ol Pejeta Campsites : There are a number of campsites available inside the park.
• Sweetwaters Serena Camp : Part of the Serena portfolio, Sweetwaters Serena Camp is an excellent choice.
• Olepangi Farm : For a luxurious stay, I would suggest the Olepangi Farm which is just outside the park.

Things To Do in Ol Pejeta Conservancy

• Go horse riding to see Fatu & Najin the last two Northern White Rhinos.
• Visit Baraka, the blind black rhino.
• Join the K9 dog tracking team.
• Go on a lion tracking game drive.
• Visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary.

Lake Naivasha & Hell’s Gate National Park

The next stop on this Kenya itinerary is around Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate National Park.

On the way, you could stop at Thomson Falls , which lies between Ol Pejeta and Lake Naivasha, either for a picnic stop or an overnight stay if coming from further away.

Naivasha town lies close to Lake Naivasha. Nearby you’ll find the wonderful Hell’s Gate National Park, said to be the inspiration for the Lion King due to its dramatic landscape. What’s also special about Hell’s Gate, is that you can take cycling safaris allowing you to get a completely different safari perspective.

Naivasha is also close to the extinct Mount Longonot which can be climbed in a few hours and offers great views over Lake Naivasha, as well as Elsamere, home of Joy Adamson, the writer of Born Free.

How Many Days to Spend in Naivasha & Hell’s Gate National Park

2 – 3 days. If you were in a rush, 1 night could be ok if you’re not travelling to or from too far.

Where to Stay in Naivasha & Hell’s Gate National Park

• Camp Carnellys : The most popular budget option is Camp Carnellys.
• Elsamere Lodge : This is the lodge on the site of Elsamere, of Born Free fame, where Joy Adamson lived.
• Enashaipai Resort & Spa : The name of this lodge means ‘state of happiness’ in the Maasai language.

Things To Do in Naivasha & Hell’s Gate National Park

• Go cycling or do a safari at Hell’s Gate National Park.
• Take a dip in the Ol Karia Geothermal spa.
• See the flamingos at Lake Oloiden.
• Take a boat out on Lake Naivasha.
• Go walking on Crescent Island .
• Visit Elsamere.
• Climb Mount Longonot.

Lake Nakuru National Park

At one time, I would have definitely said to go to Lake Nakuru, which used to be famous for its flamingos, however, rising water levels have forced the flamingos to move to Lake Bogoria (around 4 hours north) and pollution from the nearby town has also had a negative effect – it’s very sad.

Saying that it’s still a good place to see rhinos, there are a couple of wonderful viewpoints and it’s a good stopover between the Mara and Ol Pejeta – but I probably wouldn’t include it as a main destination on your Kenya itinerary. Read more here .

How Many Days to Spend in Lake Nakuru National Park

1 day, for the reasons I mentioned above.

Things To Do in Lake Nakuru National Park

• Go on safari to see the white rhinos.
• Visit Baboon Cliff Viewpoint.

Where to Stay in Lake Nakuru National Park

• Lake Nakuru Lodge : This is a great mid-range option in the park.

Masai Mara National Reserve

The next stop on our Kenya itinerary is the incredible Masai Mara, home to the ‘Big Five’ and arguably the most famous safari destination in the world.

As well as game drives through the park, you can take a balloon ride to see it all from above (with a champagne breakfast at the end), which is especially cool if you time it when the Great Migration is passing through ”“ this varies slightly from year to year, but usually happens around July, August & September.

If you want an amazing and varied Masai Mara safari, I’d definitely recommend coming along on my Rock My Kenya & Tanzania Adventure . It’s a really special and awesome trip (if I do say so myself)!

How Many Days to Spend in the Masai Mara National Reserve

3 – 4 days. It takes at least half a day to get to and from the Masai Mara by road (from Nairobi), so I would suggest spending at least 3 nights here. You can save a bit of time by flying into Keekorok Airstrip and I believe they are considering making this an international airport – watch this space.

Things To Do in the Masai Mara National Reserve

• Go on a Masai Mara safari.
• See the wildebeest & zabra migration (usually July – October).
• Spend time with the Maasai people.
• Go hot-air ballooning.
• Go on a horse riding safari.
• Visit the Sekenani township.

Where to Stay in the Masai Mara National Reserve

• Kobi Farm : My favourite place to stay is Kobi Farm, run by my friends who used to own Mara Explorers Camp.
• Governor’s Camp : Beautiful tented camp in the heart of the Mara.
• Mara Explorer Camp : Beautiful luxury camp, not to be confused with the old Mara Explorers Camp.
• Angama Mara : One of the best, Angama Mara is the place to go if you’re looking for somewhere really special with an ‘Out of Africa’ romantic vibe.

Amboseli National Park

When planning your Kenya itinerary, you should definitely consider Amboseli National Park, one of Kenya’s most iconic yet not that widely known travel destinations.

Amboseli is special for a couple of reasons, firstly for having one of the densest elephant populations in the world, and secondly for the fact that it lies at the base of Kilimanjaro, which provides an incredible backdrop for all of your photos. Simply magical!

Unless you fly between the Mara and Amboseli, you’ll probably need to stop over in Nairobi, otherwise, it would be a very long travel day.

Alternatively, you could also visit Tsavo National Park which is a little bit further on towards Mombasa.

How Many Days to Spend in Amboseli National Park

1 – 2 days. Allow yourself at least 1 full day to really enjoy your safari. Just be aware that the weather can affect the view of Kilimanjaro, so the longer you spend here, the more chance you will have for good views. 

Things To Do in Amboseli National Park

• Spot elephants and other animals on safari.
• Admire Kilimanjaro.
• Visit the Maasai people.

Where to Stay in Amboseli National Park

• Kibo Safari Camp : My favourite place to stay in Amboseli is Kibo Safari Camp which has great views of Kili from the rooms.
• Amboseli Eco Camp : If you’re a fan of eco-camps, you might like to stay here.

Tsavo National Park

I first read about Tsavo National Park in one of my favourite books, Love, Life, and Elephants: An African Love Story by Daphne Sheldrick, founder of The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

Tsavo is famous for having lots and lots of elephants and is split into two sections, Tsavo West and Tsavo East.

How Many Days to Spend in Tsavo National Park

2 – 3 days. You could spend more if you hadn’t been on too many other safaris during your trip.

Mombasa is a fantastic coastal city, with a very different feel to Nairobi. Whereas Nairobi is a very cosmopolitan, Mombasa has a distinct old-world, meets new-world Swahili flavour.

Mombasa is steeped in history, being one of the oldest and busiest ports on the African continent and is a great place to immerse yourself in Swahili culture.

Take a tour of the city and enjoy some of the great restaurants and bars too.

If you don’t go through Amboseli or Tsavo, you can easily get the train from Nairobi to Mombasa. Alternatively, you can also jump on the train at various different towns, including Voi, near to Tsavo National park. Booking in advance is advisable as the train almost always books up.

How Many Days to Spend in Mombasa

1 – 2 days. Mombasa is a great and important historical city, however, it’s not my favourite place in Kenya so a day or two is enough for me.

Things To Do in Mombasa

• Take a city tour.
• See the Mombasa tusks.
• Visit Uhuru Park.
• Explore the spice markets.
• Visit Fort Jesus and the Old Town.
• Shop for souvenirs.
• Visit Haller Park and visit the Nguuni Wildlife Sanctuary.

Where to Stay in Mombasa

• Tulia House : The main backpacker hangout in Mombasa is Tulia House. The bathrooms aren’t great, and the rooms are ok, but they have a pool and sociable bar, great for meeting new friends.
• Best Western Plus Creekside : If you want somewhere reasonably priced, with nice views and close to town, check out this place.

Diani Beach

You can end your Kenya holiday in Diani, one of those picture-perfect locations, known for beautiful blue seas and white, sandy beaches. Diani is a popular honeymoon spot, as well as a backpacker favourite, so it’s a great place to add to your Kenya itinerary.

Whether you’re looking to relax, get adventurous or party – there’s something for everyone.

The trade winds make Diani a popular spot for kite surfing and it’s also one of the best places for sky diving in Africa.

At night, the backpackers tend to gather at Forty Thieves (although I believe it’s closed at the moment) which is always fun, especially on the weekend.

How Many Days to Spend in Diani Beach

2 – 3 days. Diani Beach is a great place to relax!

Things To Do in Diani Beach

• Go skydiving over the Swahili coast.
• Explore Shimba Hills National Reserve.
• Take a dhow trip to Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park.
• Relax on the beach and party the night away.

Where to Stay in Diani Beach

• Stilts : Stilts is a backpacker place, set back from the beach in a jungle setting. It’s one of my favourites and you also get to use the facilities at their sister hotel, Flamboyant.
• Flamboyant : Owned by the same people as Stilts, for mid-range, try Flamboyant is a nice choice, with a pool and lying directly on the beach.
• AfroChic : For a more luxurious stay, check out AfroChic, part of the Elewana Collection.
• Diani Villa : If you have a big group, I would suggest Diani Villa.

Kilifi, a town north of Mombasa, is one of my favourite places in Kenya.

I think a lot of this has to do with the incredible backpackers there, which is called Distant Relatives. It is truly is backpacker’s paradise and I’ve known many a person to go there for a couple of days and leave weeks, even months later.

The friendly, laid back-vibe tends to attract a lot of cool people including locals, independent travellers, so there’s always something going on and someone to hang out with.

You can spend your time relaxing in a hammock, swimming in the creek or the pool or taking a day trip out somewhere. There are lots of things to do in Kilifi.

Again, you could stay in Kilifi and easily explore Watamu and Malindi from there, but I guess your Kenya itinerary will depend on how much time you have – but the options are there!

How Many Days to Spend in Kilifi

How long is a piece of string? On a serious note, at least 2 full days.

Things To Do in Kilifi

• See the bioluminescence in the waters of Kilifi Creek.
• Relax on the white sands of Bofa Beach.
• Sail on a traditional dhow boat.
• Visit Vuma Cliffs.
• Go snorkelling or scuba diving.
• Take a village tour.

Where to Stay in Kilifi

• Distant Relatives Ecolodge & Backpackers : I love Distant Relatives. It’s one of those places that people either really love or they don’t and lots of people get ‘stuck’ there. It’s got a strong hippy/eco/permaculture vibe if you’re into that!

Watamu & Malindi

North of Kilifi, you’ll find Watamu and Malindi, two beautiful beach towns and popular Kenya holiday destinations, both with plenty of activities, hotels and restaurants to keep you busy for a good few days, if not longer.

I’m putting these two together because they are so close to each other (approx 30 mins) – so you could stay in one place and enjoy both. Kilifi is also nearby, but Kilifi holds a special place in my heart, so Kilifi gets a section of its own.

You can fly to Malindi from Lamu or Nairobi, or you can get a local minibus (matatu) from Mombasa.

How Many Days to Spend in Watamu & Malindi

2 days + (more if you can) – is there such a thing as too much beach time?

Things To Do in Watumu & Malindi

• Visit Arabuko Sokoke Forest.
• Go scuba diving or snorkelling at Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve.
• Explore the Gedi Ruins.
• Relax on Golden Beach.
• Hang out at Osteria Beach Restaurant.
• Visit the Marafa Depression.
• Do some watersports (SUP, surfing, kite surfing).

Where to Stay in Watamu & Malindi

• White Elephant Sea Lodge : Beach lodge in Malindi.
• Kobe Suite : Mid-range beach resort in Watamu.

Lamu, in northern Kenya, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and possibly the best place in the world to experience the traditional Swahili culture – even more so than Mombasa or Stone Town in Zanzibar .

Visitors to this sleepy island often spend much longer here than they intend to, sucked in by the laidback way of life. Spend your days getting lost in the alleyways, relaxing on the beaches and immersing yourself in this intoxicating place.

I absolutely love Lamu and wrote a whole Lamu travel guide to help you plan your own trip.

The road to Lamu is not known for being very safe, so it is advisable to fly. You can catch a flight from Nairobi, Mombasa or Malindi. Once you arrive, it’s a short ferry ride to Lamu from Manda Island.

How Many Days to Spend in Lamu

3 days at least. I spent 4 nights there and that was great, but I could have stayed longer. 

Things To Do in Lamu

• Wander through Lamu town.
• Visit the market, fort and the museum.
• Take a trip on a dhow boat.
• Go to a festival.
• Go sunrise swimming and relax on Shela Beach.
• Visit the donkey sanctuary.

Where to Stay in Lamu

• Banana House & Wellness Centre : Check out this lovely Swahili house which also hosts retreats. This is where I stayed and I loved it!
• Manda Bay : Manda Bay is a beautiful, boutique beach lodge.

I hope this helps you plan an amazing Kenya itinerary! Got any questions? Leave them in the comments below!

Other Kenya posts you might enjoy…

• 25 Awesome Things to Do in Nairobi, Kenya
• The Perfect 2-Week Kenya & Tanzania Itinerary (Plus Map, Tips & Things To Do)
• A Little Guide to Lamu Island in Kenya
• Planning a Trip to Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya – Everything You Need to Know
• Kenya vs Tanzania – Which is the Best Country to Visit?
• The Best Hostels, Guesthouses & Campsites in Kenya
• How To Get Visas for Kenya & Entry Requirements Explained
• 10 Unique Places To Visit in Northern Kenya
• How to Travel to the Masai Mara on a Budget (Under $500)
• A Guide to Visiting Samburu National Reserve in Kenya
• Visiting the Umoja Women’s Village in Kenya
• A Guide to Amboseli National Park – Kenya’s Most Iconic Unknown Safari Destination

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I love to travel all over the world, but it's Africa that holds a special place in my heart. My mission is to help people travel Africa in an authentic, safe, fun, adventurous and ethical way.

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Hello Helen, Hope you’ve been well. May name is maggy and i really enjoyed reading your blogs. I would have sent you a private message but there is no contact me link. I just started a blog and i’m looking for people who have traveled to my city to share there story. If interested it will be honor to feature your articles and pictures. send me a message and let me know if it’s an option

Best regards Maggy

Hi Helen! I will be in Kenya over the Christmas and New Year holiday this year. I am traveling solo (female) and wonder where in Kenya, and perhaps what hostel, you’d recommend to spend New Years Eve.

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10 Days In Kenya: The Ultimate Itinerary

Best known for its incredible safaris and beautiful coastline, it would be easy to spend 10 days in Kenya exploring the tourist hot spots alone. But Kenya has a lot more to offer that is a little further off the tourist trail if you are prepared to do a little research.

It is a country perfectly suited to travelers who want to get away from the crowds and experience Kenya’s vibrant and fascinating culture and history. It really is a country for everyone.

This 10 days in Kenya itinerary will pack in the best of all Kenya has to offer, from incredible safari experiences, to rain forests and high altitude views. This really a country that has it all, and we don’t want you to miss out on a single bit of the fun!

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also earn from other affiliate programs. This means we may receive a small commission on products purchased through our links at no extra cost to you.

Quick Guide To Your 10 Days In Kenya

When to plan your 10 days in Kenya

Getting around in Kenya

The Ultimate Itinerary For Your 10 Days In Kenya

• Explore Nairobi
• Relax at Lake Naivasha
• Take in Lake Victoria
• Explore Kakamega rainforest
• Camp at Ol Pejeta safari
• Mount Kenya day hike

Staying safe

Entry requirements

Staying connected

What to pack

Book suggestions

Local knowledge

Rough prices

Food for thought

When To Plan Your 10 Days In Kenya

As a general rule, you can expect the weather in Kenya to be something like this:

• January to March – hot and dry
• April to June – hot and wet (the “long rains”)
• July to October – warm and dry
• November and early December – warm and wet (the “short rains”)

The main tourist seasons tie in with the rainfall patterns: the biggest influxes of visitors are in December–January and July–August .

During the dry season you’ll have the obvious advantages of less rain and better visibility. This is especially good for seeing wildlife! Expect variable weather in certain regions, though. Higher altitudes tend to bring rain and cooler weather, so plan for raincoats and jumpers when visiting Kakamega rainforest or the mountain regions.

July to September is probably the best period, overall, for game-viewing, with early September almost certain to coincide with the annual wildebeest migration in the Maasai Mara.

October, November and March are the months with the clearest seas for snorkelling and diving.

During the long rains, the mountain parks are occasionally closed, as the muddy tracks are undriveable. The rainy season does come with some advantages though, such as fewer tourists and strikingly green landscapes!

Getting Around During Your 10 Days In Kenya

The best way to see Kenya has to be by car. Now, I’m a pretty nervous driver, and I have to say that driving in Kenya would have probably given me a nervous breakdown.

This is not the way to travel if you aren’t a confident driver, or with someone that is. Luckily my friend doesn’t mind the hectic roads and slightly erratic driving, and seeing the country with the freedom of a car was incredible and I can’t recommend it enough if you have the confidence.

There are all the usual car hire companies in Nairobi, but my vote goes to Roadtrip Kenya . They offer sturdy, reliable 4x4s that are perfect for Kenya’s back roads. They have 24 hr roadside assistance and can offer a whole load of helpful add ons such as fridges and tents, to help maximise your trip.

The next best way to see Kenya would be by tour, and preferably a private one so that you can make your own itinerary and go to the places you really want to see, without others getting in the way.

If you’re heading to Kenya to see it’s incredible wildlife then we’d thoroughly recommend a safari tour – the local guides know all the best animal sighting spots! Some of the highest recommended are listed below.

6 Day Tour From Nairobi – This 6 day wildlife tour will take you to some of Kenya’s key safari spots, including the best places to spot elephants, bird life, hippos and of course the chance to spot the big five.

4 Day National Park Tour – This tour will take you to some of the best wildlife spots in Kenya but also take you to some of the best natural sight-seeing view points for some fab photo opportunities.

Buses and Matatus

Buses and Matatus have a bad safety record in Kenya, and you should be a little cautious when travelling by either.

Don’t be afraid to ask to get off if you feel unsafe! The great thing about them is that they are cheap, and it is possible to travel the length of the country in them (though be prepared for an uncomfortable ride!)

Buses  cover almost the whole country. Head to the bus station and ask there for the routes available. You’re better off looking for the main, larger companies as they often list proper ticket prices and the routes on offer.

Once you’ve reserved a seat, the wait can be an adventure in itself, as the hustle and bustle of street vendors selling their wares through the windows of the buses is an interesting experience.

Matatus  (colourful mini buses) give you a real taste of local life, and can be great fun – but they drive pretty darn fast and aren’t the safest form of transport in Kenya.

We’ve heard that you shouldn’t pay until you’ve left town, as they often drive around town to try and pick up more customers before heading back to the exact same spot they picked you up from! Also bear in mind that they don’t leave until they’re full.

The trouble with both of these modes of transport is that they stick to certain main routes, and you will struggle to get to some of the lesser known places on this itinerary.

The Ultimate 10 Days In Kenya

I’ve based this itinerary on what I feel are the must visit locations if you have 10 days in Kenya to travel and sight-see. They aren’t necessarily the most popular, and they certainly aren’t all safari destinations, but I think these destinations give a great taste of the diversity and culture you will find in Kenya. It isn’t all just elephants and lions!

I’ve included places to stay at each destination. I bought a tent and camped where it was allowed which worked perfectly. Y

ou could bring your own lightweight tent if you’re making your way by bus or public transport, or you could hire a tent from the car hire company I recommended above.

The great thing about having a tent with you is that you’ll save a bit on accommodation costs, but then you’ll also potentially miss out on some really awesome accommodation!

Days 1 and 2-Nairobi, a must visit on your 10 days in Kenya

Chances are you flew into Kenya’s vibrant and busy capital, Nairobi. Depending on what time you arrive here we would recommend spending 1-2 days in the city.

There is so much to see and do here that you could easily spend all 10 days of your time wondering the urban streets, dining in fancy restaurants and soaking up the Kenyan city life. But with so much else to see it seems a shame to spend all your time in the city, so try to limit your time to just a few days.

Take a day to visit some of the tourist attractions. Nairobi’s metropolitan area and outskirts are full of things to see and experience – all within easy walking distance or a short taxi ride away. You can find out all about Nairobi in our ultimate guide , including ideas on where to stay, places to eat and a huge variety of things to do.

An absolute must do while you’re in Nairobi is a visit to the elephant orphanage . Find out all about they incredible work they do here, opening times and prices in our guide to Nairobi’s famous elephant orphanage.

If you would rather the hard work was done for you then why not consider one of these fantastic tours.

Elephant orphanage and Giraffe sanctuary tour

Private city tour

Lunch at the famous Carnivore restaurant

Places To Stay In Nairobi

Fairview Hotel is quiet and peaceful but still has a central location. It’s a very pretty place to stay and unusual for a city centre hotel!

If you’re like us and prefer the freedom to cook if you choose then consider a stay at Prime Living Apartments . Great views, central location and fitted out with home comforts too.

Day 3 -Lake Naivasha, home to crocs and hippos!

Leave early and head straight to Lake Naivasha (you may even want to head there the evening before so you have a whole day here, especially if you’re more of a fan of rural areas!)

Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake just a few hours drive from Nairobi. It is full of crocodiles and hippo’s, and you may well spot them coming out of the water if you’re lucky.

This lake is a recreational area to many Kenyans, so there are a lot of activities in and around Lake Naivasha.

To be honest, I would be more than happy just taking a day to relax beside the beautiful lake and get used to the relaxed Kenyan way of life after a hectic few days in the city. But there is also plenty to do here if you like to make the most of your time.

Why not take a boat safari trip and spot an incredible variety of bird species.

You can also take a trip to  Hell’s Gate National Park where you can go on a walking or horseback riding safari and spot wildlife like giraffes, buffalo, Colombus monkeys, wildebeest and more.

If you can afford to spend longer here then an easy day trip from Lake Naivasha would be to climb  Mt. Longonot . It’s an adventurous 4-5 hour hike into the crater of Mt. Longonot, with stunning views and the chance to spot buffalo, antelopes and maybe even leopards if you get really lucky.

Another favourite thing to do here is to visit  Elsamere and learn more about The Joy Adamson Story-the woman who raised the lion cub, Elsa, and successfully reared her and released her into the wild many years later.

You can visit the beautiful lodge she lived in, with an amazing view over Lake Naivasha and enjoy a nice cup of Kenya tea. Her best-selling book, ‘Born Free’ , is definitely something you want to read while you travel through Kenya.

Where To Stay

Camp Carnelley’s offers a wide range of different accommodation including traditional camping, twin rooms, bandas and dormitories. They are all located right at the edge of the lake, so you really feel as though you are out in the wild.

They offer accommodation for every budget and serve amazing food at the “Lazybones” Bar and Restaurant. I can thoroughly recommend it here, it really is idyllic for people who love character and a ‘camping’ experience!

Day 4-Lake Victoria, off the beaten track

Settle in for a 5 hour drive, preferably through Kericho’s charming tea plantations. This would be a great place to stop and break up the drive if you have time.

You can head to Kisumu, a town on Lake Victoria’s Eastern side, where there are plenty of options for accommodation overlooking the lake. Or if you’re feeling a little more adventurous then stay overnight on Rusinga Island, and take the car ferry across the lake to continue your journey.

Lake Victoria is completely off the beaten track, and an amazing place to visit. I felt like I was seeing the real Kenya on my visit here, and loved doing something a little different to the usual Kenyan safaris.

If you have time to spare then you could take a boat trip out onto the lake and search for hippos. I was content to watch the beautiful sunset, and was pleased I got up early to watch the sunrise over the lake. It was one of the most magical moments I had on my 10 days in Kenya.

I stayed on Rusinga Island, in a beautiful Eco lodge overlooking Lake Victoria. Situated in Mbita, 5 miles from Tom Mboya Museum, Wayando Beach Eco Lodge has little hut accommodation and space for camping, with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a garden.

This is the perfect retreat to get away from it all and has the best views of Lake Victoria at the end of the long garden. Get up for sunrise and you won’t be disappointed. The huts have a private bathroom with a shower and free toiletries. There is also free WiFi. It’s garden is a lovely space to relax in, with hammocks and a large communal area.

Day 5 and 6-Kakamega Rainforest, a 10 days in Kenya highlight

Kakamega Rainforest was the biggest surprise for me on my 10 days in Kenya. I just never imagined so much green in a place that I thought was all about the sandy, bristly landscapes of the safari scene.

Kakamega is a lush, deep green jungle just teeming with wildlife and moody atmosphere. You will feel in the middle of no where here-we didn’t see another tourist the whole time we were here.

Take a ferry across Lake Victoria (an experience in itself) and drive through little villages where the children run out onto the road to wave you past. The entrance to the rainforest centre is a little hard to find. Ask for directions if you get lost!

There are many different areas to explore, so enlist the help of a knowledgeable guide who will show you all the best spots and will know all about the local wildlife and the best places to spot it. You will be walking, so make sure you have decent walking shoes. The humid paths are very likely to be muddy!

The best place to stay, in my opinion, is in a tent amongst the wildlife. Make sure you keep your eyes peeled for fireflies as you walk to your tent at night, and keep your food well locked away or the local monkeys will have it for sure!

Check out our ultimate guide on Kakamega rainforest for more information.

Day 7 and 8- Ol Pejeta , safari with a difference

Leave Kakamega Rainforest early because today is a long drive through some beautiful scenery. I promise it’s worth it!

Ol Pejeta is the safari park with a difference. This incredible place is home to the last two Northern White Rhinos left on Earth, and does amazing conservation work for endangered rhinos and elephants.

As well as their pioneering efforts to save animals, this conservation park offers you the chance to see all the safari big five, and the ultimate experience of camping in the bush. I can’t rave about this place enough-watching wild elephants walk past my tent in the moonlight is definitely one of my all time top travel experiences.

And don’t worry if you can’t get hold of a tent, they offer a wide range of different lodges, all with their own unique features. You can self drive yourself around the park if you hired a car, or take a jeep tour of you would prefer.

To find out all you need to know about this amazing place, including where to stay, check out my Ol Pejeta safari guide here.

Day 9-Mount Kenya day hike, one to squeeze into your 10 days in Kenya

Rather than taking most of your holiday to climb all the way to the top of Mount Kenya why not just do a day trek. This way you will get a taste of the incredible mountain scenery and still get to experience some of the other Kenyan highlights during your 10 days.

There are several different routes you can take, each one slightly different, but all of them only last a day. Make sure you take a guide-not only is it a huge area but it is also full of wildlife that may be dangerous if not treated or approached in the right way.

A knowledgeable guide will be able to show you all the best places to go and keep you safe. You’ll also be supporting local businesses, so it’s good all round!

Alternatively, you could head back to Nairobi and see Mount Kenya as a day trip, like this popular trip here . Or if you have time, why not see a little more of this incredibly mountain with an overnight stay.

Day 10-Home time

Time to head back to Nairobi for your flight home. If you have time, why not stop at the Nairobi National Park to fit in a last minute safari in a park that’s right next to a city! Or perhaps you have longer to spend in Kenya? The perfect end to such a busy holiday would be to head to the beach for some rest and relaxation!

Staying Safe

I visited Kenya right before a big election and felt totally safe in every area I visited, both as a woman and given the current political hype.

That being said, my friend who I was visiting had stocked up on food ready to sit out the week over the election period for fear of riots and protests. Keep an eye on local news in the lead up to your visit and take precautions as you would when visiting any foreign country.

Kenya is a safe destination compared to some surrounding African countries and there is a big tourism industry here, but like most major cities there are issues with crime, and many government travel advisories warn travellers of the threat of terrorism. You should check your Government’s travel advice for the latest information.

You can minimise your risk of being targeted by pickpockets by following simple precautions like wearing a money belt , using a bag with added security like theft proof pockets and taking out only the money you actually need.

LGBTQ+ Travellers

It’s hard to accept but important to be aware that the  Kenyan Penal Code criminalizes homosexual activity , with a recent ruling upholding a law with a punishment of 14 years in prison for offenders. Plenty of gay and lesbian travellers visit Kenya every year, but public displays of affection aren’t tolerated.

The same modest code of conduct and dress also applies to heterosexual couples. Kenya is a conservative and traditional country.

Health Matters

Proof of yellow fever vaccination needs to be presented, and they do check this on arrival! Check with your medical centre for advice on any other vaccinations needed before you visit, and make sure you get malaria tablets if you are visiting malaria affected areas.

Don’t drink tap water unless it has been boiled or purified. Carry a reusable water bottle and purification tablets or a water filter bottle, so you don’t have to buy too much plastic water bottles!

Insurance For Your 10 Days In Kenya

I don’t need to bang on about why you need insurance when you travel. It’s obvious, and it’s so important, but it’s also easy to forget with all the other paperwork you’re trying to get through.

This is your reminder!

It doesn’t have to be expensive, just make sure it covers you for doing the activities you might be tempted to do while you’re out there, things like trekking and safaris are must-do activities on your visit to Kenya so make sure your insurance covers them!

You can get easy to navigate travel insurance designed for adventurous backpackers from  Safety Wing . They honestly make insurance seem easy – you just go through their list of activities and make sure it’s ticked for the package you’re buying!

Entry Requirements For Your 10 Days In Kenya

You should check for the current entry requirements on your countries government website to make sure you’re up to date with current requirements in such a changing climate.

Some regular entry requirements include:

You need a visa to enter Kenya. Kenyan entry visas are exclusively issued electronically, with passengers required to obtain their e-visas before departure. You can apply for single entry and transit visas on the  e-visas website

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Kenya. Make sure you have two blank pages in your passport on arrival.

Yellow fever certificate requirements

You may need a yellow fever certificate when entering Kenya from certain destinations. Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s  TravelHealthPro website .

Money, Money, Money

Currency Exchange

The Kenyan shilling ( KES ) is the official currency of Kenya. Credits cards are commonly accepted in most mid-range to high-end restaurants and hotels.

ATMs are plentiful within all main towns throughout the country, where money can be withdrawn. Make sure you check your banks transaction fees before you go to avoid being stung too hard, or sign up for a Revolut card (get it free through the link) and never worry about being overcharged when you travel again!

Staying Connected In Kenya

Unless you’re going really off the beaten track on your 10 days in Kenya, staying connected is relatively easy. I used the free WIFI available in most accommodations, bars and cafes and it was widely available (except in Kakamega rainforest and camping in Ol Pejeta!) Just make sure you turn off roaming on your smartphone to avoid the hefty roaming fees!

What To Pack On Your 10 Days In Kenya

Here’s a rough guide to what to pack for a trip to Kenya, but it largely depends on what season you’re travelling in and how you intend to travel! These are some essentials you’ll want no matter the weather!

• Shirt or blouse
• Jumper or fleece
• Scarf for sun cover and for visiting religious buildings
• Hiking Shoes
• Rain Jacket
• Camera and equipment/smart phone
• Plug Adapter 
• Chargers for all your devices
• Binoculars 
• Hand Sanitizer/wipes
• Insect Repellent 
• Medications
• Passport/visa/travel documents
• Travel Insurance
• Travel first-aid kit

Book Suggestions

Lonely Planet Travel Guide: My go to travel guide is always the Lonely Planet, but you might have an alternative favourite. You can find out most things you need to know for your visit on the internet, but I love having a book version with me to read and make notes in while I travel. They become a little like souvenirs!

A Grain Of Wheat: This is a Kenyan classic, set in the years leading up to independence from Great Britain, in 1963. The novel centers on Mugo, who has been celebrated for leading a hunger strike during his imprisonment and who holds a deep secret: He betrayed Kihika, a Mau Mau rebel fighter from his village, resulting in Kihika’s death.

Dust: Kenya’s 2007 presidential election descended into violence and left more than 1,000 people dead .  This story is based on these events, and is a great (sobering) read about modern day Kenya. The book was  shortlisted for the London-based Folio Prize  in 2015.

Rough Prices For Your 10 Days In Kenya

Just as with all travel, it’s possible to holiday in Kenya on a serious budget or in serious luxury. It all depends on how you’re prepared to travel! You can stick to a very small budget in Kenya by eating in local cafes, staying in budget accommodation and doing less of the tourist type activities (like safari) that tend to be more expensive.

I spent around £100 a day on my trip to Kenya, with some parts of my trip being cheaper than others. Camping in Kakamega rainforest, for example, was a whole lot cheaper than the days I spent camping in Ol Pejeta. I saved money by cooking a lot of my own meals, and I had a friend to stay with in Nairobi so I saved money on a few nights accommodation there.

Food For Thought

I was worried I’d struggle as a vegetarian in Kenya but that certainly wasn’t the case. Kenya has some truly delicious local dishes that you should try while you’re here. In the main hotels and restaurants you’ll also always find a selection of western food like burgers and pizza! Here are a few traditional Kenyan dishes to sink your teeth into!

• Ugali (Cornmeal Staple)
• Irio (Mashed Peas and Potato Mix)
• Githeri (Beans and Corn)
• Kenyan Pilau (Spiced Rice)
• Wali wa Nazi (Coconut Rice)
• Sukuma Wiki (Collard Greens / Kale)
• Kenyan Stew
• Nyama Choma (Roasted Meat)

The main Christian religious holidays and the Muslim festival of Id al-Fitr are observed in Kenya.

On the coast, throughout the northeast, and in Muslim communities everywhere, the month of fasting called  Ramadan , and the festival of  Id al-Fitr  are the only religious festivals that might impact your travel. A lot of shops and hotels will be closed at certain times during this period.

Maulidi , the celebration of the prophet’s birthday, is worth catching if you’re on the coast at the right time, especially if you’ll be in Lamu, where it is celebrated in great style.

The Lamu Cultural Festival is a raved about Kenyan festival.

Kenya’s first annual outdoor music festival, the Rift Valley Festival , has taken root on the shores of Lake Naivasha and happens in late August. If you’re keen to see the Maasai Mara migration safari you can combine the two.

If you’re visiting in May you should try and make it to the Lake Turkana Festival – a hugely enjoyable tribal gathering at Loiyangalani.

Hopefully you have some ideas about the most beautiful places to visit on your 10 days in Kenya. Obviously, as it is such a huge country, there are a lot more places to explore, but this guide should give you a feel for the incredible wildlife, culture and scenery that makes Kenya so unique and special. Next time you’ll want more than just 10 days in Kenya!

Leave a comment below if you’ve been to any of the places on the list, it’s always great to hear from you!

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how much does it cost?

Thanks so much for your mention of Wayando Beach Eco Lodge. We appreciate.

Am surprised you are advising tourists to public transport,eg Matatu and buses when there are many tourists vans with very experienced guides who can drive in the terrains compared to these reckless Matatu and bus drivers..

Hello, thanks for your comment. The purpose of this post is to give travellers as much information as I can on the place they’re visiting. Although I give a clear warning about safety at the beginning of the section about buses, I believe it’s up to each individual to make their own choices and I would rather give them as much information as possible so they can decide on what’s right for them. Hope that makes sense! Emily

I just started planning to visit Kenya and was happy to came across this post. However, you didn’t mention Maasai Mara National Reserve. Is there a reason?

Hello, thanks so much for reading. I didn’t mention Maasai Mara reserve for the simple reason that with only 10 days in Kenya you really can’t see it all. For me, Ol Pejeta had it all – the wild camping, the good they are doing with the rhinos there, and also a high chance of spotting the big 5 and much other fascinating wildlife. Hope that clears it up! Emily

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Great Kenya Itineraries: How Many Days to Spend?

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If you are planning to visit only one African country, make it Kenya! This East African country is home to some of the world’s most famous wildlife reserves, including the iconic Maasai Mara. This enormous reserve is full of lions, cheetahs, elephants, zebras, hippos, and more. Lake Nakuru, yet another highlight, offers some of the country's most stunning scenery, while the lively capital of Nairobi is a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities.

• Mark Bromley

How much time should I spend in Kenya?

If you are wondering how many days to spend in Kenya, then we suggest that you stay in the country as long as possible. However, since this is not an option, our advice is that you go for a Kenya trip that lasts at least five days and covers the highlights of the country’s southern safari circuit. While you will find safari tours that last shorter than that, it might not be worth traveling to a country like Kenya just for a long weekend.

If you have more time, then we suggest that you opt for a trip lasting between ten to 14 days instead. This duration does justice to popular wildlife destinations as well as a few hidden gems. With more time to spend, you can travel further north to Samburu to see rare animal species such as the East African oryx and the Somali ostrich.

5 days in Kenya

Go for the shortest and probably the most popular wildlife safari loop during a five-day stay in Kenya. From Nairobi go for a safari in Maasai Mara , home to the Big Five . Spend two days exploring the wildlife reserve before heading for Lake Nakuru. We suggest giving at least a day to Lake Nakuru. However, just in case you are an avid birder, you might want to spend two days in this area, where thousands of flamingos line the shores and countless avian species flock every year. Drive back to Nairobi on the last day and catch your flight home.

For more inspiration, check out our list of 5-day Kenya trips .

7 Days in Kenya

You can squeeze a couple more destinations into your itinerary if you are looking forward to spending seven days in Kenya. Drive south from Nairobi to Amboseli National Park , which offers a breathtaking view of Mount Kilimanjaro and is famous for its large herds of wild elephants.

Next, continue to Lake Naivasha and see its extinct volcano, Mount Longonot. Go on an off-road safari trip through the grassy plains of Maasai Mara. A couple of days and safari later, you can then travel to Shaba National Reserve, where large prides of lions congregate under thickets during the day.

Browse through all our 7-day Kenya itineraries for more ideas.

10 days in Kenya

In addition to the destinations mentioned above, you can add the Aberdares range, located nearly four hours away from Nairobi, to your bucket list if you are planning to spend ten days in Kenya. Discover majestic peaks, cascading waterfalls, forested ravines, and vast moorlands as you hike through the mountain. Just in case you are lucky, you might get the chance to see long-haired colobus monkeys and the mountain bongo.

From there, you can continue to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, which has the highest concentration of large mammals in Kenya, including the rare reticulated giraffe and Grevy's zebras. Make your final pit stop at Lake Naivasha before returning to the capital.

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? Check out our 10-day itineraries in Kenya .

2-weeks in Kenya

A two-week Kenya trip can easily include nine stops and take you from the south of the country to its northern tip. Spend a day taking in the sights and sounds of the capital city before heading for your first stop, the archaeological site of Olorgesaille. Here, you can go on a guided tour and learn more about how the first homo sapiens lived. Continue to Magadi Lake thereafter and enjoy a picnic lunch at the hot springs of Soda Ash.

Give two days to Lake Elementaita and Sleeping Warrior Hill, both of which are located in the Great Rift Valley. The shores of the lake provide refuge to numerous animal species, including zebras, gazelles, elands, and the rare Rothschild giraffe. Just in case you want to give your weary muscles some rest, the hot springs and geysers of Lake Bogoria are less than three hours away from the lake.

Next, switch up your trip with a visit to Iten, home to some of the best distance runners in the world. Then discover Lake Turkana and learn more about why this lake is a vast breeding ground for various species of crocodiles before making your way back to the capital city.

Go through our list of 2-week Kenya trips for more itinerary ideas.

Planning a trip to Kenya?

Get in touch with one of our travel experts in Kenya for a customized trip. If you’d like to book a package trip or join a group, check out our tours in Kenya .

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The Ultimate Kenya Itinerary for 10 days

Kenya is a beauty to behold and this makes it a top tourist destination in Africa. Aside from its scenic landscapes, stunning beaches and a playground for the most amazing wildlife, the people of Kenya are very welcoming to tourists. Are you planning a trip to Kenya to see the diverse wildlife reserves, the panoramic geography and want to experience their rich culture but only have 10 days to visit Kenya? 

Then this is your ultimate Kenya itinerary for 10 days. In a little more than 1 week I will bring you to some off the beaten path tourist destinations in Kenya, but of course also show you the Kenya top sights .

Ready to go on an Africa Safari? Check these Safari Quotes for your next Instagram caption!

Related: 23 Amazing Things To Do In Kenya  or 33 Kenya Travel Tips !

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Is Kenya safe for tourists?

Compared to most other Africa destinations Kenya is relatively safe for travelers. Of course always use common sense, dont be an ignorant tourists! Always be aware of petty theft, but in general no major incidents happen with tourists in Kenya. Don’t travel alone at night, stay in a group, take licensed taxi’s only, if you want to explore off the beaten path destinations take a guide… some general Kenya travel tips.

Some areas see a higher crime rate, but all the places that I am recommend you to visit on this Kenya itinerary are pretty much safe destinations in Kenya.

How to get around Kenya

Kenya has a great network of domestic flights and they are remarkably reliable for African standards. Kenya travel is pretty well developed and it is easy for tourists to go around.

Although you might be hesitating to drive in Kenya, one of the best ways to explore Kenya is to rent a car for this ultimate 10 day itinerary and do it all yourself. Rentals start already from $30 per day and gas in Kenya costs around $1,20 per Liter. Kenya traffic and road conditions can be challenging, but if you drive with care you will easily get through it.

To rent a car in Kenya you must be older than 23 years and be aware… in Kenya they drive on the left! ;)

Read all about how to get around kenya in my latest article in the link.

Kenya on a budget

Are you thinking about backpacking in Kenya but are not sure if that is possible. Here you go… you have my blessing, do it! There are many budget travelers in Kenya and it is very much possible. There are long distance busses and trains, connecting most of the most beautiful places to visit in Kenya.

Route for 10 days in Kenya

If you are looking to travel to Kenya for 10 days you have a pretty limited amount of time to experience the hugely diverse country with pristine sandy beaches, world-class game parks, reserves, picturesque mountains and lakes. But don’t worry you are still able to see some of the most beautiful places to visit in Kenya on this 10 day itinerary.

Selection is the most important part when planning a trip to Kenya. To make the most out of your trip, you ought to combine several Kenya travel destinations. Do this in such a way that you don’t reroute through Nairobi constantly, Therefore I designed this itinerary for Kenya for you so you don’t end up spending too much time on the road.

Skip the tourist trail, go off the beaten path in Kenya! Most tourists flock to the same old places to visit in Kenya, especially those who only have limited amount of time. Visiting the Masai Mara is definitely a highlight and absolutely amazing, but there is more. Therefore in my Kenya itinerary I suggest you some much more authentic highlights of Kenya as well.

10-day Kenya itinerary map

Here is my ideal 10 day Kenya itinerary to see unique and authentic places. The itinerary makes you go on safari, see various national parks, hike or mountain bike through the mountains, wake up in the forest, explore Nairobi for a day and end up relaxing on pristine beaches!

Day 1: Nairobi

Day 2: Aberdares National Park - Wildlife (B)

Day 3: Mt. Kenya National Park and Samburu National Park - Hiking & Wildlife (C)

Day 4: Mathews Range - Off the beaten path Kenya Destination (D)

Day 5: Marsabit National Park and Lake Turkana - Wildlife (E) + (F)

Day 6: Rift Valley) - Lakes and amazing landscapes (G

Day 7: Maasai Mara - Iconic Kenya Travel Destination (H)

Day 8: Amboseli National Park - Wildlife (I)

Day 9 & 10: Wasini Islands - Amazing Kenya Beaches (J)

Day 1: Nairobi - The Bustling Capital

Most Kenya tours start in Nairobi as this is where almost all tourists start their trip to Kenya. Begin your Kenya itinerary in Nairobi by visiting the Nairobi National Park which was established back in 1946. This for sure is one of the best things to do in Nairobi as here you can see four of the big five against a backdrop of not-so-distant skyscrapers. Breathe in the fresh air with the bustling city in sight just kilometers away and listen to the incredible chirping of the countless birds. Entrance to the Nairobi National Park for tourists is usually $50 for adults and $25 for children.

Other top tourist attractions in Nairobi are The Giraffe Center which was established in the 1970s and is located in the neighboring suburbs of Lang’ata.  After tracking down the endangered giraffes, head over to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage to spend time with orphaned elephants.

If you want something completely different then opt for one of the guided walking tours in the city itself and discover the craziness and bustling Nairobi by the hand of a local. I would actually suggest you do this at the end of your trip as then the contrast between fantastic landscapes and wonderful nature in one country is huge, but the crazy city life will still be captivating.

Where to stay in Nairobi?

Finding a hotel in Nairobi is pretty simple as there is a wide range of accommodation options available. 

If you want to stay near the airport I can recommend you to check in to Crown Plaza Nairobi Airport , pricey but directly at the airport. But you can already find a 5 star hotel for a little over $100 per night so check out the prices of: The Concord or the Mövenpick .

If you have a lower budget I can recommend the Edmor Residence or the Acacia Tree Lodge for around $60 a night.

For solo budget travelers there aren’t that many hostels but a good place to stay in Nairobi is: Khweza Bed & Breakfast has private rooms for $20.

Day 2: Aberdares National Park - Wildlife

At Aberdares National Park it’s time to get started with your Kenya safari. Heading south from the mountainside you get to this beautiful National Park. Unique thing about the Aberdares National Park is that it is located between 2,100 meters (7,000 ft) and 4,250 meters (14,000 ft) above sea level. It has more of an alpine feel with mountains, streams, and moorland.

Kenya travel tip for Aberdares national Park bring some warm clothes it can get really cold here. Even in June it can still drop to freezing level during the night.

There are so many organized activities in Aberdares National Park. You can go lion-tracking, simply cycling around, safaris of course, or just hike through the lush beautiful landscapes. If you love to go camping in Kenya, pick a camping spot from one of the countless options in Aberdares National Park. This will be one of the most rewarding adventures on your Kenya holiday.

Where to stay in Aberdares National Park

Spend the night in the two unusual lodges inside the park: the Ark Lodge which is built in the shape of Noah’s Ark and Treetops where Princess Elizabeth stayed in 1952 on the night her father died and she was crowned queen. Cool fact about Kenya, right?

For budget travelers there are a bunch of homestay’s a little drive away from the park entrance with good ratings. Some lodges I recommend are: Kuniville Guest House ($60), Anka Resort with outdoor pool ($100) and The Great Circle Lodge who has dorms for $15 per night.

If you want to splurge there is also the Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club , 5 stars ultra luxurious but also around $400 per night.

Alternative things to do around Aberdares National Park: if you have extra time on your hands, squeeze in a visit to Ol Pejeta Conservancy on Laikipia Plateau. The conservancy is home to the last remaining near-extinct northern white rhino. 

Day 3: Mt. Kenya National Park & Samburu National Park - Hiking and Wildlife

The journey from Aberdares National Park to Mt. Kenya won’t take that long. This is your first stop on day 3 before heading further north towards Samburu National Park.

In case you aren’t the active or adventurous traveler, or you just like watching wild animals much more, I recommend you to skip Mt. Kenya National Park and head straight to Samburu National Park.

But before you decide to leave Kenya’s Central Highlands I would recommend you to immerse yourself in some relaxing or intense moutainbiking or hiking through the picturesque trails and valleys of Mt. Kenya National Park. The views are extremely rewarding and there are many adventurous things to do in in Mt. Kenya National Park.

This place is heaven for travelers who are looking to be active on their Kenya vacation. One of the amazing things to do in Mt. Kenya National Park is hiking to Lake Michaelson or Lake Ellis. There are also mountainbike trails around for daredevils. 

Of course is climbing to the top of Mt. Kenya also an option. There are actually three peaks, the easiest and most popular peak to climb is Point Lenana, but there are many tours leading you to either Batian peak or Nelion peak.

Are you having too much fun in Mt. Kenya National Park and want to stay there I can totally recommend you to stay at Besotted Farmstay . Im sure their friendliness helped a lot getting a great rating of 9.1 out of 10. The Besotted Farmstay only costs about $60 per night.

Do you decide to travel onwards after your adventures in Mt. Kenya then head north towards Samburu National Park which is about 3 hours away.

Another full game-drive around Samburu National Park awaits you in the late afternoon or even opt for a night safari. This park sits on the Ewaso Nyiro River and offers a different kind of safari game drive because the animals gravitate towards the river. Some animals to look out for include giraffes, elephants, lions, leopards, cheetah, hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, hyenas, Somali ostrich, Greyy’s zebras. Haha pretty much everything I would say. A cool travel tip for Samburu National Park is that here you can spot the Gerenuk, which is a special antelope that can reach up into trees. Also there are more than 365 bird species.

Visiting Samburu National Park is not on many standard Kenya itineraries and therefore a little more off the beaten path. Much less touristy and that is why Im recommending you to go.

Beyond seeing the animals along the river banks, you’ll also see them among the acacia, and river forests. There’s also a high likelihood of spotting the red-robbed Samburu tribesmen grazing their cattle.

Where to stay in Samburu National Park

Inside the national park there are two luxury accommodation options which are both amazing but also expensive: Elephant Bedroom Camp & Ashnil Samburu Camp . A little South you can find the city of Isiolo where you can find much more affordable accommodation like Bomen Hotel for $70. Also check out the boutique Sabache Camp north of Samburu National Park for $150 per night with great ratings.

Day 4: Matthews Range / Lenkiyio Hills - Off the beaten path Kenya travel destination

I am sending you even more off the beaten track on day 4 of your Kenya holiday. Continue the adventure trail leading to the desert frontiers in the Northern areas. But before you get there first make your way north past Samburu National Park and you will get to the Matthews Range.

There is excellent hiking in the Mathews Range and great for those looking for unique things to do in Kenya . There is no phone signal and walking safaris and guided hikes deep into lush green mountain range is what you will be doing here. There is wildlife around and you will for sure hear the sounds of the jungle, but spotting animals is hard in this thick vegetation. Guides can take you up to natural rock pools with rope swings, viewpoints, etc. 

There is only one place to stay in Mathews Range: Kitich Forest Camp . This luxury tent camp will surely live up to your off the beaten path adventure in Kenya.

Day 5: Marsabit National Park and Lake Turkana - Wildlife and Lakeside

The road leads further through the barren but beguiling landscape North towards the Ethiopian border. Marsabit is a dusty tribal center and is also home to the Marsabit National Park & Reserve. The main tourist attractions here are extinct volcanic craters, Lake Paradise and of course its wildlife.

Marsabit National Park was once known as the place where you could find the elephants with the longest tusks in the world. Besides elephants you can also spot huge zebra populations and with more than 300 bird species Marsabit National Park is a real bird sanctuary.

Lake Turkana is not a usual Kenya travel destination, but even more so I included this place in the ultimate itinerary. For more secret Kenya travel tips, read my article with 33 things to know before you travel to Kenya .

After visiting Marsabit National Park take the western loop towards the Turkana Lake. From here, the trail leads south again passing all kinds of scenic landscapes and the lovely stopover towns like for example South Horr. 

The other side of Turkana Lake has the lovely Eliye Springs where you will find lakeshore beaches. IT is a pristine place and one of the places often found on a list of tourists destinations in Kenya. Unfortunately the drive is too long (more than 10 hours) from South Horr to Eliye Springs and in my opinion therefore not worth it.

You can decide to overnight around South Horr. There are two amazing but also expensive lodges: Desert Rose Kenya and Samburu Lodge . More South towards your next day adventure you will find the much cheaper Ngari Hill Guesthouse & Campsite .

Day 6: The Rift Valley - Lakes, Waterfalls, Rock Formations

This is one of Africa’s most defining geological marvels and there are so many places to visit in the Rift Valley that I have to be included in anyone’s Kenya itinerary. Gorges, hot water springs, craters and waterfalls, you will find it all in Rift Valley.

Mount Longonot is one of Rift Valley’s prettiest vantage points. Afterwards, walk amid the dramatic rock formation and gorges of Hell’s Gate National Park. These two national parks are next to each other and can be visited on the same day. Lake Naivasha is also nearby.

More things to do in Rift Valley are the lakes of Baringo, Bogoria, as well as the Lake Nakuru National park. This national park is located just a stone throw away from the town and is one of Kenya’s compact and excellent parks. It is home to many pink flamingos and hippos. Other species that are found here are buffalos, antelopes, giraffes, zebras, lions, rhinos, and leopards.

Where to stay in Rift Valley

There are plenty accommodation options near Lake Nakuru. A great mid range option with very good reviews is Empolos Hotel Nakuru for $85 per night. The Ziwa Bush Lodge is about $150 per night but has meals included for 2 persons.

If you want to splurge the Enashipai Resort & Spa near Lake Naivasha is totally worth check out.

Day 7: Maasai Mara - Most Iconic Kenya Travel Destination

On your second day here, take a loop down to Kenya’s far southwest into the Maasai Mara National Reserve which is 5 hours away from Nakuru by road. Between July and October, the Mara hosts one of the greatest wildlife concentrations on earth: the annual wildebeest migration. Hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and a few zebras and antelopes arrive from Tanzania in search of fresh grazing. 

No need to introduce the Maasai Mara even more or tell you what to do. Though the ultimate thing to do in the Maasai Mara Reserve is a hot air balloon ride. It gives you a magnificent view of the animals and the best opportunity to witness plenty of animal action.

Where to stay in the Maasai Mara

There are plenty Maasai Mara hotels, guesthouses and lodges to chose from. You can find incredibly luxurious lodges that charge close to $1,000 per night. Places for the more ordinary traveler I can recommend are: Oseki Maasai Mara Camp as well as Maji Moto Eco Camp both for around $130 per night.

There is even a Kempinski Olare Mara  down here or check out the Olarra Lodge or the Entumoto Main Camp if you feel like a once in a lifetime experience.

Day 8: Amboseli National Park - Wildlife

Catch a glimpse of Africa’s highest mountain peak in Amboseli National Park. Home to lions, cheetahs, elephants, and more than 600 bird species in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro. 

If at this time you still haven’t gotten enough from the spotting wildlife (this is why you traveled to Kenya, right?) then from Amboseli head southeast and make stops at the Tsavo West National Park which is home to all the big five as well as the outstanding Tsavo East National Park to get closer to elephants.

The driving time directly from Amboseli to Mombasa is 6 hours, from Amboseli to Tsavo is 4 hours while from Tsavo to Mombasa is 2 hours. Therefore Tsavo West National Park is worth another stop on your roadtrip through Kenya.

This day I would actually recommend you to drive to Mombassa already. It will be a little bit of an adventure during to drive in Kenya at night but nothing better than have 2 full days at one of the best Kenya beaches, right?

Day 9 & 10: Wasini Islands - Kenya Beaches

There are so many things to do at the Kenyan coast (check out my things to do in Kenya travel blog) which is very diverse and you are guaranteed to have lots of fun as you experience the beauty there. If you’re keen on diving or snorkeling, visit in October, November, or March for the clearest waters. Local marine includes crabs, starfish, turtles, and a variety of colorful corals. A trip in a traditional dhow should be top on your bucket list.

You can go fishing, surfing, snorkeling, paddle boarding, kite-surfing, or skydiving at Diani Beach. Make sure that you try some of the delicious Swahili food like pilau, biryani, mahamri, and madafu.

Learn everything there is to learn about Mombasa, a city with historical and cultural significance. From there you can either head to the fabulous beaches in Lamu or head over to Watamu to watch some majestic whales. In the Watamu Protected Area, tourists get to watch whales and dolphins jumping out of the water with their calves.

Heading south there’s Tiwi Beach which is a tranquil white-sand paradise that’s quite popular with independent travelers. Just down the road, make another stop at the perfect holiday destination of Diani Beach. Further south near the Tanzanian border are the Wasini Islands which provide a dose of unspoiled coastal life. These Islands offer easy access to the excellent Kisite Marine National Park where you’ll see lots of crocodiles along the mangrove-lined rivers.

A couple more amazing places to visit in Kenya can be found if you head north along the coastal trail. You’ll get to the charming town of Kilifi before pressing on to the Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve which is one of the largest remaining tracts of indigenous coastal forest in East Africa with prolific birdlife, forest elephants, and the golden-rumped elephant shrew. Further north is the Gede Ruins which is an ancient Swahili city that dates back to the 13th century. Another historic destination along the coast is Malindi which is one of Kenya’s leading beach destinations, especially for Italian holidaymakers.

From here you can either fly straight back home from Mombasa International Airport or go back to Nairobi to catch your flight from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

Best time to travel to Kenya

You have most probably already decided when you will travel to Kenya, but if you are still in doubt… you can visit Kenya year round! Different seasons attract different kind of tourists. The Kenya beaches can be visit year round, but January till March sees the least tourists and is dry season.

If you specifically travel to Kenya for the great migration of the Wildebeest, you want to be there in July and August as that is when they cross the Mara River. For hiking in Kenya I recommend you to plan your Kenya trip in the one of the dry seasons: January till March and July till October.

Check out the average rainfall, sunshine and temperature per month in Kenya on the Weather Atlas website .

Enjoy your trip to Kenya!

Don't forget to check out this blog with ideas for Instagram captions about Safari , in total 45 famous Safari Quotes!

Kenya is a vast country and as mentioned earlier on, there’s so much to do and see there. This means that you need at least a month to cover everything satisfactorily and still you’ll be left wishing you could stay longer. But if time is not on your side I hope that this piece helps you manage your time well and make the most out of it for an unforgettable trip.

If you’re looking to explore the beautiful country on a budget, it’s best that you avoid visiting during the peak season which is dictated by the weather. This slight compromise means cheaper rates for Kenya tours and accommodation.

If you have any more questions please leave me a comment below.

This Kenya travel blog is created with the help of Kim Paffen, one of the Traveltomtom team members . Her outstanding photography skills and multiple trips to Kenya contributed a lot creating this ultimate itinerary for Kenya.

• maasai mara
• Wasini Islands
• Amboseli National Park
• Rift Valley
• Marsabit National Park
• Lake Turkana
• Matthews Range
• Samburu National Park
• Mt. Kenya National Park
• Aberdares National Park

The Best 10 Day Kenya Itinerary!

Looking for that perfect 10-day itinerary in Kenya? Look no further. We’ve made an itinerary for you to get the most out of your travel experience in Kenya with culture, safari and relaxing time on one of the most beautiful beaches of Kenya.

This 10 day Kenya Itinerary is a unique roundtrip where you’ll visit the highlights of Kenya. It includes a safari, you might be able to spot the big five! A citytrip to Nairobi, and days of relaxing at the Kenyan Beaches!

• Nairobi – 1 day
• Kenya – 1 day 
• Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha – 2 days
• Maasai Mara Game Reserve – 3 days
• Mombasa (Diani Beach) – 3 days

Kenya will have you falling in love with the landscape, wildlife and culture the moment you step off the plane. It’s the best safari destination in the world, but Kenya has so much more to offer than just wildlife. So let’s get started!

Make sure to read are other blogs about Kenya:

• The 10 most beautiful beaches in Kenya
• Kenya Travel Guide (practical information)
• 13 mindblowing things you need to know about the Maasai Tribe
• Kenyan Tribes: Everything you need to know before you travel to Kenya
• 20 awesome things to do in Nairobi

10-day Kenya Itinerary

1. nairobi – 1 day.

The first stop on your 10-Day Kenya Itinerary is Nairobi. Typically, when you fly into Kenya, you will fly into Nairobi International Airport. Or you fly into Mombasa the exotic town at the coast of Kenya with stunning beaches. It’s what you prefer. Nairobi is closer to the best safari parks and ending your trip in Mombasa is what we advise you to do.

So while already in Nairobi, why not make the best of it for a day before you head out to your first destination. Stay the night at Giraffe Manor and have breakfast with giraffes. An alternative is to visit the Giraffe Centre close by where you be able to feed the endangered Rothschild Giraffes. And learn more about this endangered giraffe species. Or visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to get close to orphaned elephants and rhinos.

A few top places add to your Kenya Itinerary is visiting the Parliament Building , the City Market with local produce and craft markets in Nairobi and get some cultural history at the Nairobi National Museum . And if you are a carnivore you should definitely eat at the famous Nairobi restaurant: Carnivore .

Nairobi is the gateway to your Kenya safari and an excellent place to learn more about the culture and people of Kenya. Another tip is to check the events before you travel to Kenya. A great event to experience the local vibe is the   Blankets and Wine Event that’s every first Sunday of the month.

The best venue to catch some live music is at the Live at the Elephant.  It’s the perfect location in Nairobi to relax and enjoy listening to some local live Kenyan music.

Useful information

• Read our Nairobi article: 20 awesome things to do in Nairobi
• Places to stay in Nairobi (check the latest prices on Booking.com)

2. Mt. Kenya – 1 day

The Mount Kenya National Park is the second stop in your Kenya Itinerary. Mt. Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya and the second highest mountain in Africa (highest: Kilimanjaro). The highest peaks are covered with snow and it’s the perfect backdrop for a safari filled with elephants. Well, hopefully, because the surroundings of Mt. Kenya are perfect for spotting the beautiful African elephants. So make sure to go on a walking or 4WD safari when you’re in the area.

Unfortunately, in this 10-day itinerary, there isn’t enough time to climb Mt. Kenya, but that’s a great activity to do when you come back for another time in Kenya. In this itinerary there sure is enough time to hike around Mt. Kenya and sit back and relax on the porch of the many lodges in the area. Having a cold beer overlooking the beautiful landscape and spot great wildlife is also enough for a day. And a great start to the rest of your trip through Kenya.

• Places to stay Mt. Kenya (check the latest prices on Booking.com)
• Activities to book Mt. Kenya (Book your activities via GetYourGuide!)

3. Lake Nakuru/ Lake Naivasha – 2 days

Lake nakuru.

The third stop on your 10-Day Kenya Itinerary is Lake Nakuru. Here you will want to spend a couple of days, with all there is to see. Lake Nakuru National Park is located in central Kenya and is the perfect spot to see a wide variety of African wildlife. It is a beautiful natural escape you will fall in love with, which is why it is noted in this Kenya Itinerary. It’s a destination in Kenya you won’t want to miss.

You can explore the national park and see beautiful animals such as rhinos, hippos, leopards and many others. One unique thing that makes this location a top spot in your Kenya Itinerary is that it is the best spot to see the Lesser pink flamingos. The algae in Lake Nakuru is what attracts these flamingo’s to this lake in is the reason why the lake and flamingo have a pinkish colour. It is a beautiful site and one of the highlights of your Kenya Itinerary.

There are several safari resorts and lodges right in the National Park so you can wake up amidst the natural beauty of wildlife surrounding you. Or you can stay in the town, Nakuru, nearby so you can get the local town feel.

Due to dry periods in the past in Kenya Lake Nakuru shrinks from time to time. The abundance of water depends also if you’re visiting Lake Nakuru during the rainy or dry seasons of Kenya.

Kenya has two rainy seasons. The long rain season is from April to June and the short rainy season is from October to December. The hottest period in Kenya is in February and March. 

• Best places to stay Lake Nakuru (check the latest prices on Booking.com)

Lake Naivasha

The other option in your Kenya Itinerary is to visit Lake Naivasha instead of Lake Nakuru. Both are nearly close to each other so it’s up to you. If you’re a quick traveller and driver maybe you can do both.

Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake and is a totally different experience to Lake Nakuru. You can spot crocodiles and hippo’s coming out of the water every evening and this lake is a recreational area to many Kenyans. So there are a lot of activities to in and around Lake Naivasha. Go on a boat safari and spot an incredible variety of bird species. And at Hell’s Gate National Park you can go on walking or horseback riding safari and spot wildlife like giraffe, buffalo, Colobus monkeys, hartebeest and many more.

An easy day trip from Lake Naivasha is to climb Mt. Longonot . It’s an adventurous 4-5 hour hike into the crater of Mt. Longonot where you can spot buffalo, antelopes and maybe even leopards. If you’re lucky ;).

Another great activity is to visit Elsamere . Visit the beautiful lodge with an amazing view over Lake Naivasha, have a delicious cup of tea and learn more about The Joy Adamson Story. The women who raised the lion cub, Elsa, and successfully released her into the wild many years later. Her best-selling book, Born Free, is definitely something you want to read while you travel through Kenya.

• Best places to stay Lake Naivasha (check the latest price on Booking.com)
• Interesting Book to read: Born Free (check the latest price on Amazon)

4. Maasai Mara Game Reserve – 3 days (Best stop in the Kenya Itinerary)

The next stop on your 10-Day Kenya Itinerary is the Maasai Mara Game Reserve and the most exciting one. You haven’t travelled to Kenya if you haven’t visited the Maasai Mara, so put this for sure in your itinerary. In this park, you will have the ultimate safari experience as you have seen on the National Geographic channel and dreamed about after watching.

We recommend spending a good three days in this stunning location. This is the picture perfect destination to get your full safari experience and see the big five on your game drive.

What is the big five? It’s a bit outdated but the big five is actually an old hunting term. It refers to the five most difficult animals in Africa to hunt on foot: the rhino, leopard, buffalo, elephant and lion. Now it’s used as a safari term by African tour operators.

Best Game Reserve to visit in Kenya

The Maasai Mara is one of the best game reserves in the country due to its abundance in wildlife. This will mean that your chances of seeing all the magnificent animals you want to catch a glimpse of are much more likely than in other areas or parks in the country. And you need three days to give you a chance to spot them all (if you’re very lucky) and make the most out of your African safari experience. There is such a variety due to the vastly different terrains all located in this reserve. You will want to get your camera ready!

And visiting a Maasai village is a must-do as well. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime-experience you must add in your Kenya Itinerary. This tribe has become the symbol of Kenya and is one of the more traditional tribes of Kenya . Known for the tall men jumping very high in the air wearing red clothes. We wrote an article about the Masaai Trib that you might find interesting:

• 13 Mindblowing Things About the Maasai Tribe .

Whether you take a bush walk or go on a game drive, you will be amazed at the landscape and the beautiful animals surrounding you in their natural habitat. Where else would you be able to have a lion or rhino walk right up beside the vehicle you are sitting in. It is one of the prettiest places to explore in Kenya, thus making it a top destination in your Kenya Itinerary.

The most extravagant way to experience the Maasai Mara is to book a hot air balloon safari. You will be picked up before sunrise and just as the sun is coming up you will fly in the air to spot the wild animals at their most active time of day. Oh, and when you land in the middle of the savanne there will be a champagne breakfast waiting for you……

The best time to watch the annual migration of wildebeest and zebra in the Masai Mara is between June and September right after the long rain season.

• Best places to stay Masai Mara (check the latest price on Booking.com)
• Interesting Book to read: The White Maasai (check the latest price on Amazon)
• 13 mindblowing things about the Maasai Tribe (Made For Travellers article)

5. Mombasa (Diani Beach) – 3 days

The last stop on your itinerary for Kenya is Mombasa. This is the perfect destination for a little relaxation after your exploration of Kenya’s National Parks. Kenya’s beaches are quite stunning and a stop is definitely worth multiple days. So you have enough time to relax and process al the amazing experiences and memories you’ve made in Kenya.

Diani beach, in particular, has a little bit of everything. Located on the Southern portion of Kenya’s coast, Diani Beach is about an hour South of Mombasa. There are plenty of resorts along the beach that will provide perfect accommodations for your stay.

During the day you have the crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches to dip into. Lined with coconut palm trees the beach offers great snorkelling and marine life. You can even spot whale sharks. In the evening, you will be able to peruse the different shops and boutiques. There are several restaurant options for when meal time comes around. If the nightlife is your scene, there is a lively nightlife scene surrounding Diani Beach as well. Since your schedule is packed with so much to do, Diani really is the perfect beach option. You can relax and still having plenty to explore. It is the perfect stop in your Kenya Itinerary!

There are many stunning beaches along the coast of Kenya. We’ve made a list of the 10 most beautiful beaches in Kenya . So you can make the best decision to end your trip in Kenya.

• Read our Practical information Kenya Travel Guide
• Best places to stay Mombasa, Diani Beach (Check the latest price on Booking.com)
• Activities to book Mombasa (Book your activities via GetYourGuide)

Additions and Alternatives for Your Kenya Itinerary

• Visit Amboseli National Park instead of the Masai Mara. It’s near the border of Tanzania and during your safari, you’ll have an amazing view of the Kilimanjaro in the background. It’s a lot smaller than the Masai Mara but the view of the Kilimanjaro makes up for it.
• Go to Aberdare National Park instead of Mt. Kenya and spot beautiful waterfalls like the Karuru Falls, Thomson falls or the Chania Falls.
• Explore Tsavo National Park as an additional safari experience. It’s one of the oldest and largest national parks of Kenya. The park lies between Nairobi and Mombasa. Instead of flying to Mombasa from Masai Mara or Nairobi you can drive to Mombasa and you will drive through Tsavo National Park. Or take the train from Nairobi to Mombasa and you can spot wild animals from the train.
• Fly to Zanzibar (Tanzania) for the last few days relaxing in the sun at the end of your Kenya Itinerary. It’s a beautiful and exotic island of the coast of Tanzania with beautiful white sandy beaches, turquoise water and a lot culture to explore in Stone Town .

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Africa , KENYA

Ideal kenya itinerary for a tight budget & tight schedule.

If you only have a small budget, a small amount of time and want to experience an epic slice of Africa, then let me suggest Kenya as the perfect destination to choose.

Hugely diverse, from mountain lakes and world-class national parks to stunning coastline, Kenya is the perfect country if you want to feel like you’ve seen a lot of East Africa in just a couple of weeks.

It’s also one of the best countries if you’ve got small pockets like me and want to still tick some amazing sights and animals off your bucket list.

And did I mention the people are some of the friendliest in the world too?!

As you may have guessed, I absolutely loved my time in Kenya and was hard-pushed to pull myself away even after 5 weeks there!

However, I know many travellers don’t have that sort of relaxed timeframe (and which of us have masses of cash right?) so I’ve condensed my highlights down into this handy 2 week Kenya Itinerary for those of us on a tight budget.

If you really want to see the best of this fantastic country on a shoestring, then discover my top recommended spots here…

Related Posts

• 22 Things You Need to Know About Travel in Kenya
• The Ultimate Safari Gear List
• Your Unforgettable Africa Itinerary

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Day 1: nairobi.

Stay: Milimani Backpackers This well-located and lovely backpackers is set in a very safe area of Nairobi. With free wifi, free breakfast and some super friendly staff, it’s a great spot to relax into this hectic city.

Start your Kenya itinerary in the nation’s capital – after all, it’s the city you’re most likely to be flying into, given its excellent global connections.

Check out Skyscanner for the best deals – in my experience, Kenya Airways, tend to offer the most competitive prices.

Nairobi has a bad reputation (cue cries of Nairobbery!) but, as a bustling metropolis, you might be surprised to find how developed it is and rest assured there’s more than enough to occupy you for at least one day.

Choose from day trips to Nairobi National Park, the Giraffe Centre or the David Sheldrick Elephant Sanctuary if you want to get stuck straight into some wildlife.

Otherwise, the budget-friendly National Museum or free Uhuru Gardens and City Markets are great options for those looking to save their pennies.

READ MORE: Top 10 Things to Do in Nairobi

Day 2 & 3: Lake Naivasha & Hells Gate National Park

Stay: Camp Carnelley’s Right on the lake, listen to the sound of roaring hippos around the roaring fireplace in the fun bar here. Rooms are available, but the cheapest are the dorms or the camping options.

From Nairobi, it’s easy to catch a local bus or minivan (known as a matatu ) to the town of Naivasha, and then onto the nearby lake, which is a few hours west of the capital.

Situated in the gorgeous rift valley area, this beautiful lake is 1884m above sea level and the perfect place to take a sunset cruise.

With hippo spotting and great bird-watching possibilities, these evening trips are superb for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

The next day, I suggest taking a tour to the nearby Hells Gate National Park, which can easily be organised by most accommodation providers at the lake, or check out this top-rated one day trip from Nairobi if you are tight on time.

The fascinating geothermal landscape of this beautiful reserve is stunning and reminded me a lot of Windjana Gorge in Australia , with towering sandstone cliffs and deep gorges.

But the best thing about Hells Gate National Park however is the fact you can easily explore it on 2 wheels and 2 feet!

Yes cycling and hiking through Hells Gate National Park is unlike any other safari you’re likely to experience as you can get seriously up close and personal with warthogs, giraffes, zebras and more!

This makes for a great encounter with some of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife – an intimate experience you’re unlikely to repeat elsewhere in Africa and an absolute must on your Kenya itinerary.

And don’t worry both the cycling and the hiking here is pretty easy, although I do recommend starting this half day trip early in the morning when things are a bit cooler and you’ll likely have the place to yourself!

READ MORE : Why Hells Gate National Park Provides a Totally Unique Safari Experience

Day 4 & 5: Lake Nakuru National Park

Stay: Punda Millias Camp This delightful camp has some beautiful glamping safari tents, complete with double beds for bargain prices. It’s a popular spot for overland trucks to stop, but even if you don’t have your own cooking gear, the onsite restaurant can sort you out with some food and a beer or 2, as well as organise safari trips.

Sticking in the Rift Valley area, from Lake Naivasha it’s just a few hours bus or matatu journey further east to the stunning reserve Lake Nakuru.

Kenya’s first national park, this place boasts some amazing wildlife spotting opportunities with a huge concentration of animals from buffaloes to flamingos, baboons to gazelles and even the extremely endangered rhinos.

In fact, we saw 7 rhinos on our day safari in Lake Nakuru, plus a baby!

The park is also famous for its tree-climbing lions and yes, we spotted one of those too!

If you can, allow a whole day to explore this park as, despite its small size, there’s a lot to take in, including some stunning elevated lookouts and at least 1 waterfall.

In addition, the setting of this park – with the city of Nakuru in the background and the stunning salt lake at its centre, complete with flooded tree trunk scenery – makes for a fascinating backdrop to your safari shots.

Discover why Lake Nakuru is one of the top 7 national parks in Kenya here .

Day 6 & 7: Masai Mara

Stay: Mara Camp or Acacia Camp Nowhere in the Masai Mara is cheap, but staying slightly outside of the park at either of the above basic campgrounds is going to offer the most budget-friendly option. Both these camps should also be able to arrange game drives for you too if you haven’t sorted anything in advance.

2 nights is the absolute minimum you can get away with spending in the world-famous Masai Mara, but if you’re on a tight budget (and timeframe) you’re going to have to keep things short here!

Nevertheless, no Kenya itinerary would be complete without a visit to what I always describe as the best African safari .

From the stunning setting, abundant wildlife and strong indigenous cultural experience, there really is no place quite like the Mara!

In just 1 day there, we spotted more lions than we cared to count, as well as leopards, cheetahs and of course herds of wildebeest, towers of giraffes, dazzles of zebras, pods of hippos and a heap of elephants, baboons, warthogs, hyenas, elands, topis, mongeese … the list goes on and on!

Smaller than the Serengeti and with some seriously photographic green rolling hills, this is the Africa you’ve seen in all the pictures.

You can access the Masai Mara via the town of Narok, which is a few hours bus or matatu ride from Nakuru. You can then try to get your accommodation to collect you from there, although the road is hellish – you have been warned!

That said, your best bet in terms of budget may actually be to join a pre-arranged tour to the Masai Mara in Nairobi and keep costs low by teaming up with others.

More Time? Add in trip to Tsavo East National Park from Mombasa or Amboseli National Park from Nairobi to extend your safari experience. Check out these good safari tour options . Feel Like a Splurge? Extend this Kenya itinerary with a trek to summit of Mount Kenya or upgrade to a lodge in the Masai Mara.

Day 8 & 9: Lamu

Stay: Amu House This beautiful, traditional Lamu home was been wonderfully renovated with all the love and care you’d want in a small, family-run guesthouse. The location is great and the staff absolutely fantastic. Plus prices here about as low as they get for a private room in Kenya.

Once you’ve had your safari fix, it’s time to head to Kenya’s coast to grasp the diversity of this dazzling country.

First port of call is the incredible city of Lamu, situated right in the north of the country.

Travelling here by road isn’t recommended so the best option for safety, time and possibly your budget too, is to hop on a cheap flight from Nairobi direct to Lamu.

Budget airlines FLY540 and Safarilink both offer competitive prices, which you can quickly compare using Skyscanner .

Get a one-way ticket to Manda Island and from there hop on the short ferry to Lamu itself.

Once you arrive in town, sink into the tantalising slow pace of life here as the steamy, Swahili coast seeps into your spirit.

There’s no cars on Lamu, only donkeys wandering the ancient streets of this UNESCO World Heritage-Listed town , as mosques sing out their call to prayer and the smell of simmering samosas lies thick in the air.

From thin winding streets to beautifully carved doorways, this is the sort of destination where the essence of the place is more a reason to visit that any listed tourist attractions.

It goes without saying, many people describe Lamu as the highlight of their Kenya itinerary.

If you like the sound of Lamu, then you’ll also love Zanzibar’s capital, Stone Town. READ MORE: Top 21 Things to do in Stone Town including 9 that are Free!

Day 10 & 11: Kilifi

Stay: Distant Relatives An amazing permaculture and sustainable-based backpackers, Romain and his team have done an super job of creating a wonderful rustic resort here that goes way above and beyond your average hostel. With everything from camping to private bandas available in the spacious and beautifully-tended grounds, enjoy swimming in the pool, playing on the volleyball court or relaxing on one of the many daybeds before trying desperately to pull yourself away… I guarantee it will be a struggle!

From Lamu, hop on a short, cheap flight to Malindi, which sits further south on Kenya’s Coast and then head on a matatu to the town of Kilifi.

This gorgeous, relaxed spot has a friendly local community and an arty-alternative crowd of expats that tend to orbit around Distant Relatives backpackers.

Set on the banks of a creek, there’s tons to do in Kilifi including day trips to the coastal resort of Watamu, visiting local markets, swimming in the nightly bioluminescence and enjoying sunset dhow rides.

However, if you just feel like relaxing with a good book and enjoying the sunshine as part of your Kenya itinerary, this is the perfect place to do that too.

READ MORE: What an Amazing Place: Distant Relatives EcoLodge & Backpackers

Day 12 & 13: Diani Beach

Stay: Diani Backpackers This cute little hostel is a delightful budget-spot in an otherwise expensive town. Well-located just 5 minutes walk from the beach, you’re bound to find a friendly face at either the pool or the bar here! Owners Jess & Justin are really lovely and always happy to help with any questions you may have.

The country’s top resort, no Kenya itinerary would be complete without a few days in the paradise spot of Diani Beach.

With the turquoise Indian Ocean lapping at its picture-perfect white sand, Diani is the kind of beach many of us dream about!

Largely dominated by all-inclusive resorts, the beach is thankfully still a public space, which means even those of us on a budget you can enjoy this dreamy spot too!

If you’re feeling active, there’s skydiving, scuba diving and kitesurfing all on offer here, as well as boat trips and snorkelling trips to enjoy.

However if you’re too spellbound by the scenery to do much, swinging in a hammock and staring at the ocean is totally acceptable aswell!

At night, let your hair down at Forty Thieves to mingle with both locals and visitors from the world over.

READ MORE: Why I Loved Diani Backpackers

Day 14: Mombasa

Stay: Tulia House Backpackers Affiliated with both Distant Relatives in Kilifi and Diani Backpackers, score a great deal on your accommodation in Mombasa by staying at Tulia House Backpackers.

On the final day of Kenya itinerary, head to the ancient city of Mombasa, just a hop, skip and a jump from Diani via tuk-tuk, matatu and a short ferry ride.

Once in Mombasa, explore this historic old Swahili coast city on foot, making sure you allow time for the UNESCO-listed Fort Jesus.

Plenty of international flights depart from Mombasa airport, so either make your way home from here directly or connect with a short flight or a long bus ride to Nairobi to grab your plane home.

It’s worth noting that the legendary overnight train ride between Nairobi and Mombasa has now been usurped by a modern speedy 4 hr daily train.

Tickets are cheap at only $7 USD one way, but need to be booked at least a 5 days in advance either via MPesa (a local mobile phone-based method of payment) or in person at the station – good luck!

LEARN MORE: Travel Guide to the Kenya Coast

Kenya Mini Travel Guide

When to Visit?

The best time to visit Kenya is during the long dry season from June through October or the short dry season from January to February.

Learn more in this post I wrote all about the best time to travel to Kenya .

How Long to Spend There?

I’d suggest at least 2 weeks in Kenya to ensure you have the chance to tick most of the major sights off your list.

This country is huge and travelling between places takes a lot of time, which you’ll need to factor in as well.

Best Safaris in Kenya

I travelled through Kenya as part of an amazing adventure with Absolute Africa who I highly recommend for their excellent prices, great customer service, wonderful itineraries and amazing overall experience.

And you can now get an exclusive discount on your Absolute Africa safari when you email them at [email protected] and quote the code BWSP .

For other Kenya tour choices, including those with a more comfortable travel style check out these top options .

Travel Insurance for Kenya

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

Travel Money in Kenya

When it comes to paying for things in Kenya, it’s great to know that accommodation and tours can generally be paid for by card.

ATMs are also available in most major towns.

Whether you use ATMs or pay by card however, you’ll want to ensure you’re not being charged overseas transaction fees or getting poor exchange rates, which is why I always take my Wise card away with me wherever I travel.

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups and no sneaky transaction fees, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card in Kenya… and it links easily with Google and Apple pay – sold! Get yours here .

PIN IT FOR LATER!

And that’s it folks, my Ideal Kenya itinerary for those on a tight budget … and a tight schedule!

Have you visited this incredible country?

What were your highlights and what have I missed out?

Please let me know in the comments below…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

26 thoughts on “ Ideal Kenya Itinerary for a Tight Budget & Tight Schedule! ”

Distant Relatives owner is not “Ramon”, but Romain. Otherwise, many thanks for this great itinerary suggestion.

Thank you Alain, I stand corrected!

Hey! This itinerary sounds ideal. Do you have an estimate of how much did you spend during this trip?

Hi Valeria, always hand to estimate costs, because depends if people like to fly / bus / train, how much they eat and whether they like to camp or stay in private rooms. Also the number of safaris / activities soon mount up. If you give me a few more ideas about your travel style I can try and help you out 🙂

Hi Steph, wonderful guide! Thank you! I’m also interested in Valeria’s question. If I’d follow the schedule of your guide, take the train whenever I can, eat much but cheap, stay in dorms of simple but fresh guest houses, do all the safaris you mentioned but only one day each, etc. What cost would you estimate? Excluding the flight to and away from Kenya.

Hi Theo Thanks for your question. The following rough outline is given in USD:

Dorms in basic hostels are a minimum of $10-20 per night in Kenya. Some safaris you can’t do in a day. The cheapest 2 day excursion to the Masai Mara for example will set you back at least $350 USD.

You should budget $10-20 a day for food / water. Uber is cheap. Local buses a few dollars. Internal flights can be picked up from $60.

Hope that helps 🙂

Hi there! Thanks so much for all this information! It’s super helpfull! I was wondering what kind of transport you used. For instance in between Lake Nakuru national park and Masai Mara? And how did you arrange these ways of transport? In your hostel or in the city centres?

Also I read you recommend Milimani and I see more people recommending them. However on hostel world they get some very bad reviews… what was your experience?

Thanks so much in advance!

Hi Charlotte, great questions and delighted to hear you are planning to travel to Kenya. I had a great experience at Milimani and am surprised they are getting bad reviews. That said, I was there over a year ago, so things may have changed. I used an overland company – Absolute Africa – to cover many safaris and national parks in Kenya. While you can get to Nakuru by local bus, you’ll need to do a safari tour when you’re there. Masai Mara is best arranged as a complete safari tour from Nairobi as the roads are awful and often inaccessible to public transport. Milimani Backpackers offer cheap Mara tours for backpackers. Happy travels 🙂

Hi Steph, We are in the early stages of trying to plan a trip to Kenya and we were wondering what month you experienced all the wildlife in Masai Mara? Did the safari guides say that they are usually seen most months out of the year? Thanks! Katie

Hi Katie and great question. I visited the Mara in late October and found it to be brilliant as you said. Now late October is meant to be the start of the “short rains” but we had no rain and honestly with global warming now you just cannot tell! “Long rains” are meant to be during June-August in Kenya, but again, who knows these days! Honestly, I think any time of year is pretty good for Kenya – the wildlife is there outstanding and you just can’t say on the weather anymore, so go for it!

Hi I am looking at 6/7 nights and 8/9 days budget vacation with my 17 yr year old son . Pl do suggest an itinerary which must incl Masai Mara

Hi Deepak, without knowing more about what sort of activities you enjoy and what you want to see in Kenya, it’s very hard for me to make recommendations. My suggestion is to take a look at all my Kenya articles, learning more about the best places to visit in the country, and make your selections from there. Best, Steph

Gretat post, I just wanted to ask, do safari prices stay the same even during the migration?

Thanks for your kind words. It is my understanding that they stay the same yes

Hi Steph, I noticed that you said you went to Maasai mara in late October. Did you get to see the animal migration?

Could you also please suggest the safari tour provider that you used?

We are thinking of going in October this year too!

Hi Lenny, please do drop me an email at [email protected] and I can give you all the info over email, which is much easier 🙂

Going to Nairobi from Addis Ababa by road

This info is as current as end of May 2019.

Every morning at 5 am a Selam bus leaves from Meskel square to Arba Minch. You should buy your ticket the day before. The Selam office is at Meskel Square as well. Selam has modern buses with 2 by 2 sets. Together with your ticket comes an allocated seat.

The distance to Arba Mich is 450 km and the roads are ok and the bus arrived at 1.30 pm. The ticket was 220 Birr.

From Arba Minch take a minibus to Konso. These buses are running frequently. It takes them 2 hours for the 100 km on a horrible road and will set you 100 Birr back.

In Konso you can stay in a simple Hotel with bucket showers very close to the bus station. There is a much better one some km away.

Next morning at 5 am there is a level 1 bus to Moyale i.e. 2 by 3 seats first come first serve. They charge Birr 150 and you run on excellent roads. My bus left at 6 am and arrived 11 at Moyale. It is a short walk to the border and the border processing is straight forward. On the Kenyan side you can have an East Africa Visa or a Kenyan visa.

300 m from the border is he Moyale Star bus station for Nairobi (KES 2000). I arrived at 4 am Nairobi. They allow staying on board until 6 am and later you can wait for daylight in their office. There was one stop on the long way for food.

In a short walking distance from the bus station are several budget places to stay overnight. I stayed in the Kilimanjaro lodge for KES 1200. The place was ok.

You can change your Birr either on the Ethiopian or the Kenyan side on the road. Ethiopian banks don’t give you real money for their birr.

Close to the Moyale Star bus station are some banks. Check the rates for KES there. I was offered on the road much poorer rates. Change only the money you will need to go to Nairobi. In my lodge in Nairobi a got a better black market rate.

Arthur, this is superb advice! Thank you so much for taking the time to comment with this to help other travellers and in such detail. What great tips about a very off the beaten track area. Truly appreciate your help here. Thanks again, Steph 🙂

Right now I found the same information here: https://wheretheroadforks.com/how-to-travel-from-addis-ababa-to-nairobi-by-bus/

Oh yes Arthur, this is also a very helpful account, thanks 🙂

I was wondering what lens did you carry with you for your Sony? Since weight is a concern worried about taking to much.

Hi Kathy, I actually have 3 with me! Check out my post about the best camera for safari for more info. In short, you need a zoom lens of at least 200mm for safari snaps. Best, Steph 🙂

Hello Steph, great post you have here. I plan to arrive in Nairobi first. I’m just wondering, looking at the itinerary order, does that mean I would have to keep going back to Nairobi to fly and connect to these places, especially for the maasai mara safari tour and the Kenyan coast tour (Lamu and Diani beach to be precise). I was also thinking to make hotel booking in Nairobi for my whole stay in Kenya but that sounds like a bad idea already. Please advise. Thanks.

Hi Lam, thanks for your question. I certainly wouldn’t make a hotel booking for the whole time in Nairobi, as then you won’t be able to get out and see anything else in the country as travel takes too long for day trips. 1-2 nights at the beginning / end of your trip in the capital would be enough in my opinion. Because Nairobi is fairly centrally-situated, it’s likely that if you go out to the west, south and then east of the country you will have to route back through Nairobi due to transport links, but you don’t have to stay there – just get in and out again. The other option is out to the west and back to Nairobi, then down to the Mara, heading straight to Amboseli, possibly Tsavo and then onto the Mombasa and the coast. Hope that helps, Best Steph 🙂

hello steph.. thank you for the interesting post.. I’m trying to decide where to go – Tsavu or Ambosli .. What do you recommend if I’m look for different park then Massai Mara and Naviasha which I go before? I understand Tsavu is more easy to get to by train and then continue to Mombasa .. is that right?

Hi Amir, great question. Both Tsavo and Amboseli are good options. As you mention, Tsavo is handy if you are travelling to the coast as it is located that way. It tends to be a bit quieter too (less tourists during normal years), which is an added bonus. Amboseli is great if you’re hanging around closer to Nairobi or the Masai Mara – it also has those amazing backdrops of Kilimanjaro. which means you can get some amazing photos here if the weather is good. Really just depends where your priorities lie. Happy and safe travels, Steph 🙂

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An Epic 2 Week Kenya Itinerary: Plan the Trip of a Lifetime

Looking for a Kenya itinerary to help you save time planning your trip? You’ve come to the right place with this 2-week itinerary from a local.

Kenya offers a varied and captivating experience that satisfies every traveller’s desire, from the renowned savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the pristine beaches of the Indian Ocean shoreline. It’s on the top of many people’s bucket list, and for good reason.

In this detailed 2-week Kenya itinerary I’ll outline all the must-do activities which include unforgettable safari adventures, awesome beach destinations as well as an exciting city break in the capital, Nairobi. This itinerary will hopefully make the most of your stay in East Africa’s gem.

Let’s dive right in, shall we? Karibu sana!

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

What's in this article (Click to view)

How to get to Kenya

Kenya has two main international airports:

• Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi (JKIA)
• Moi International Airport in Mombasa

Most people fly into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as it provides the best connections and also the most flights. Most of the people who fly into Moi International Airport usually decide to start off their Kenya itinerary with a beach holiday. This is fine, however, based on my own personal experiences and also having had conversations with countless travellers, beach destinations are best visited towards the end of the trip as a relaxing “cherry on top” after having completed a comprehensive safari adventure.

When to visit Kenya

Depending on your interests and travel goals, there is no one optimum time to visit Kenya. The two main rainy seasons and two dry seasons that Kenya experiences might affect outdoor activities, wildlife viewing and the overall tourism experience. Generally speaking, the two dry seasons are the ideal periods to travel:

1st dry season (January to March): Between the light rains in November and the heavy rains in April and May, there is a brief dry period. It’s an excellent time to see wildlife because the weather is generally dry and mild at this time. In national parks and reserves, it’s simpler to see animals because the foliage is less dense. Many animals are giving birth during this time, so you could get lucky and view some young creatures coming into the world!

2nd dry season (June to October): This is the long dry season and basically Kenyan “winter” as the locals would describe it. It’s regarded as the ideal time to go on safari and see the wildlife because of the pleasant climate. Furthermore, between July and August, the Maasai Mara experiences the famous wildebeest migration, which draws tourists from all over the world. Although it might get chilly in the mornings and evenings, the weather is normally pleasant and the days don’t get too hot.

Find out what you need to pack for a trip to Kenya with this East Africa packing list .

How to get around Kenya

Short trips around nairobi…..

Uber will definitely be your best bet. It’s the safest and most cost-effective option. The only thing you’ll need is a sim card, which you can either get at the airport or you can visit one of the many shopping malls in Nairobi. Personally I prefer using Safaricom as it has the best connectivity and buying internet bundles are super affordable (1GB for 99 Kshs, which is about US$0.70).

If you feel adventurous, you can also use motorbikes, or locally known as boda bodas. They are in abundance here in Nairobi and quite cheap, however, it’s not the safest option to get around. I’d recommend this only for very short trips, however, for anything longer than a kilometre, Uber will be your best option!

Day trips around Nairobi….

Hiring a private driver is the most practical option. Once you agree a daily rate with them, the driver can pretty much stay with you, wait for you while you’re doing various activities, and then take you back to your hotel/Airbnb. It’s super flexible and although a little pricier than the Uber route, you’ll have less stress and fewer worries about someone running up your tab because you might want to spend a few more hours outside exploring.

Insider tip : Personally, I tend to hire Paul, one of the local drivers who has his own car and has extensive experience taking clients to various destinations. As I run an Airbnb , I work with tourists and explorers on a daily basis and they all have nothing but amazing things to say about him. You can also find him featured in the popular YouTube channel Fernweh Chronicles here . His contact information is in the description of the video.

For your safari trip…

Definitely go with a professional safari company. The guides and drivers who work for these companies are highly knowledgeable, take care of all the practical things like paying park fees, have lots of experience and know exactly how to get you from A to B, while maximising your chance of wildlife encounters and providing a comfortable travel experience. I’ve got more tips on how to pick a safari guide in East Africa .

There are lots of safari companies out there, so a simple Google search will provide you with lots of info. I’ve also outlined below some of the most popular international and local travel companies:

International safari companies

• Micato Safaris
• Wilderness Safaris

Local safari companies

• Bonfire Adventures
• Gamewatchers Safaris

Companies are usually very flexible and you can either create your own custom itinerary or join a group tour. Going solo is usually more expensive, however, you’ll have complete freedom over how you spend your time, can make last-minute changes to your itinerary if you feel like it and are generally more in control of your trip.

2 weeks in Kenya itinerary

So, now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s jump into the 2-week Kenya itinerary!

Summary of itinerary for Kenya trip

• Day 1: Arrive in Nairobi via JKIA
• Day 2: Explore Nairobi

Day 3: Visit to Lake Naivasha

• Day 4: Maasai Mara
• Day 5: Maasai Mara
• Day 6: Maasai Mara
• Day 7: Maasai Mara
• Day 8: Tsavo National Park
• Day 9: Tsavo National Park
• Day 10: Diani Beach
• Day 11: Diani Beach
• Day 12: Diani Beach

Day 13: Lamu

Day 14: nairobi.

Top tip: If you’ve got more time up your sleeve, why not tack on some more time in East Africa? I have an amazing Tanzania itinerary and guide to visiting Uganda to inspire you!

Day 1: Arriving in Nairobi

Once you arrive at JKIA to begin your amazing 2 weeks in Kenya, it’s usually a good idea to take it easy the first day and get used to the city. Day 1 can be used for light exploring, perhaps getting a sim card so that you’ll be well connected for the rest of your stay and will also be a good opportunity to go out for dinner at one of Nairobi’s popular restaurants.

If you arrive in the morning, you can even start exploring right away. I’d recommend visiting the Giraffe Center , one of the most popular things to do in Kenya. It’s quite easy to get there and not very time consuming, so it’s the perfect light activity for your first day in Kenya. Combining it with a late lunch at Boho Eatery would be an amazing way to kick off your Kenya adventure!

Where to stay in Nairobi

There are plenty of great accommodation options in Nairobi, so it just depends on your budget. I’ve listed some of the most popular stays below:

• Luxury: Tribe Hotel – with stunningly designed rooms, a pool and gym, you’ll be pampered here
• High end: Best Western Westlands – in a great location close to many Nairobi attractions
• Budget: Edaala Comfort Cottage Rooms – lovely B&B in lush gardens, run by a local couple who aim to create a home away from home

Day 2: Exploring the city

This is where the fun begins. If you are interested in the lesser-known, more “real” aspects of Nairobi life, I’d recommend starting this Kenya trip by joining an authentic Nairobi city street tour hosted by former street kids . The social enterprise is called Nai Nami and empowers former street kids to tell their stories about growing up on the streets of Nairobi. Having lived in Nairobi for a long time, I’ve only recently gone on this tour and learned so much!

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is another place that should be on your list. It’s a very popular tourist destination where you can watch baby elephants get nursed and taken care of – these are babies whose mothers have been killed by poachers. It’s an amazing sight to see and quite popular!

Pro tip : Make sure to book this well in advance as spots are usually booked out months in advance!

If you’re a history buff then I’d definitely add the Nairobi National Museum to your list. The Nairobi National Museum, one of the most well-known museums in the country, exhibits Kenya’s enormous cultural and natural history. It was established in 1910 and is one of the oldest museums in East Africa.

Another museum you should visit is the Karen Blixen Museum . The museum focuses on the renowned Danish author Karen Blixen and provides information about Karen Blixen’s life as a coffee plantation owner here in Kenya. If you’re a fan of Karen Blixen’s book or the movie Out of Africa (starring Meryl Streep), you should definitely add this to your list of things to do in Nairobi!

I added Lake Naivasha to this Kenya travel itinerary because it’s a personal favourite. Some like to head straight to the major national parks, however, I find Naivasha to be a little bit underappreciated as you can have an amazing time there and see great wildlife. Here are some of the activities you can do while in Naivasha.

Visit Crescent Island

On the east shore of Lake Naivasha, Crescent Island is a tiny slice of paradise. It’s frequently referred to as “Naivasha’s best-kept secret”. The island is ideal for nature walks, wildlife viewing and bird watching. A close-up view of the island and views of local wild species including hippos, zebras and giraffes can be seen on boat trips on Lake Naivasha. Please be aware that the only way to get to the sanctuary is by boat, which costs about USD$30 roundtrip, but it’s advised to have a look at the latest rates on the sanctuary’s website.

Spend a day hiking at Mount Longonot National Park

If you appreciate hiking as much as I do, then this should be on your list. It takes roughly five hours to complete the well-marked track. The trek to the mountaintop and along the crater’s rim is the park’s main draw. It provides stunning views of neighbouring hills, the Great Rift Valley and Lake Naivasha.

Hell’s Gate National Park

A picture of stunning scenery and riding among wildlife comes to mind when you think of Hell’s Gate. That and so much more can be found in this national park. I went to the park almost every weekend for the three months I lived in Naivasha. I was drawn to it because of its distinctiveness, and writing this piece makes me want to go back. Although a game drive is an option, cycling through the park is highly advised. In ways you can’t imagine, it draws you closer to nature.

Days 4-7: Head to Maasai Mara

Next on the list is probably the highlight of the entire trip when it comes to wildlife viewing.

One of the most amazing things to do in Kenya due to its diverse range of animals, breathtaking landscapes and cultural value, visiting the famous Maasai Mara national park is an experience you won’t forget.

The Mara is well known for having a wide variety of animals as well as for hosting the famous Great Migration. Millions of wildebeests, zebras and other species traverse the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of new grazing land during the yearly Great Migration, which is a stunning display. It’s a one-of-a-kind chance to see one of the most amazing natural phenomena in the world on game drives through the national park.

It is also home to the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) as well as a large number of other species. The only thing Kenya is missing is gorillas, which you can easily visit in Uganda or Rwanda !

Where to stay near Maasai Mara National Reserve

• andBeyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp
• Saruni Mara
• Governors Camp
• Mara Explorer Camp
• Angama Mara

Pro tip: If you’re not a fan of spending many hours in the car and want to save some time, you can also fly to the Keekorok Airstrip. It might be a bit pricey but if you’re on a tight schedule, I’d definitely consider it.

Days 8-9: Tsavo National Park

Tsavo National Park, which is split into East and West, calls with its wild beauty and appeal, making it an alluring location for nature lovers and explorers alike. You can experience a true African safari in the huge stretches of Tsavo East and its rocky terrain, where you can see a wide variety of species against the striking backdrop of the Yatta Plateau.

Tsavo West is home to stunning settings like the Mzima Springs, where clear waters flow amid thick flora and draw a variety of species. The park is also a hotspot for hiking and geological study thanks to the Shetani Lava Flows and the charming Chyulu Hills.

Where to stay near Tsavo National Park

There are various great places to stay during your Tsavo trip. I’ve listed below some of the best-rated camps:

• Finch Hattons Luxury Tented Camp
• Salt Lick Safari Lodge
• Ashnil Safari Camp

Pro tip: Alternatively you can switch Tsavo National Park with Amboseli National Park on this Kenya itinerary, if you prefer. Tsavo lies right in the middle between the coast and Nairobi, hence why it’s a convenient destination in the itinerary. Because Amboseli is a little further away, I’d add an extra night to make sure you get the most out of your Amboseli experience.

Days 10-12: Diani Beach

You can’t have 2 weeks in Kenya without some beach time. After a busy week of wildlife viewing at the Mara and Tsavo, I always recommend visitors to set aside a couple of days for a relaxing time at the beach.

Daini Beach has won various awards in the last couple of years for being the best beach destination in Africa. Due to its pristine beach and abundant marine life, it serves as both a getaway and a hotspot for water activities including snorkelling, scuba diving, kite surfing and deep-sea fishing. I’ve listed below a few recommendations of how you can best spend your time in Diani.

Relax by the white sand beach

Sometimes doing nothing is just as good as doing something, especially if you’ve just come back from a week of safari. Diani is the best spot to just sit by the beach, read a book, listen to some music and just let the day go by.

Go scuba diving/snorkelling

If you are into some adventure, then I’d definitely recommend scuba diving in Diani Beach. I obtained my PADI Open Water Diver certification earlier in the year and had an absolute blast doing it. The place I’d recommend is Diving the Crab . Their instructors are super professional and they always have the most-up-to date equipment at hand.

Have lunch at The Salty Squid

The Salty Squid is a popular beach restaurant and personally my go-to place when in Diani. Their food is delicious and they also have great outdoor seating right by the beach where you can spend a day working and enjoying the views of the ocean. Their wifi speed is quite good too!

Have dinner in an actual cave

Ali Barbours Cave Restaurant is a must-do when in Diani. The setting is quite unique as you’re having dinner in an actual cave. The ambience is quite nice and romantic which makes it the perfect place to go for dinners, especially if you are travelling with your significant other.

Where to stay in Diani Beach

Diani offers a wide range of accommodation options such as luxury resorts, boutique hotels and beachfront cottages. When I go, I usually stay at self-catering accommodation due to the flexibility it provides.

Places I would recommend are:

• Amani Luxury Apartments : Spacious self-catering apartments which are actually quite affordable. Due to its popularity it’s wise to book early, especially if you’re planning to visit during the high season.
• Swahili Beach : High-end luxury resort with excellent facilities.
• Diamond Leisure Beach and Golf Resort : If you’re into golfing, then this is the best place to stay. Not as pricey as Swahili Beach but still quite luxurious with excellent facilities.

Lamu is a lovely island off the coast of Kenya where ancient traditions and stunning nature combine to create an exceptional vacation destination. Lamu is a place where time seems to have stopped in the midst of stunning natural scenery. The lengthy Swahili cultural past is preserved there.

This East African treasure, with its beautiful beaches, magnificent architecture, and courteous hospitality, is for anyone looking for a real and immersive Swahili experience.

There’s no shortage of things to do in Lamu to fill the last few days of your Kenya itinerary.

However, there are two things everyone NEEDS to do when in Lamu:

Visit the Lamu Museum

One thing I’d definitely recommend is to visit the Lamu Museum. The museum houses a collection of the island’s extensive history, cultural legacy and maritime customs. It’s set in a gorgeously restored Swahili structure that displays the unique architectural design of the island.

Take a dhow ride (traditional Swahili sailboat)

The other must-do in Lamu is to take a dhow ride around the Lamu archipelago. There are various tour operators who offer such rides, which are quite amazing! You’ll set sail early in the morning and spend a couple of hours on a dhow taking in all the beauty that Lamu has to offer. The people working on the boat will also prepare fresh seafood, which is absolutely delicious! This is a must do activity for anyone visiting Lamu.

I would usually do the dhow ride early in the morning so that you can catch your flight back to Nairobi late in the afternoon. To save time, you’ll be able to also take your luggage with you so that you don’t have to go back to the hotel.

Pro tip: Make sure to let the dhow operator know when you have to be at the airport so that they time their ride in accordance to the tide. The last time I was there I almost missed my flight because we mistimed our schedule and had to wait until the tide was high enough to reach the part of the island where the airport is located.

Where to stay in Lamu

• Lamu House : Small boutique hotel in the heart of Lamu town
• The Majlis Resort : A luxury beach hotel, located on Manda Island in the Lamu archipelago, where you have panoramic views of Lamu Island and the Ras Kitau beach
• Various Airbnbs: Lamu is also home to various great Airbnbs . You can either stay in Lamu town, or in the more secluded Shela beach which is only a short boat ride away from the main town.

This is the last leg of the 14 day Kenya itinerary. It’s usually most practical to return to Nairobi as Jomo Kenyatta airport has the best international flight connections.

If your flight home is late at night, make sure to leave Lamu on the morning flight. Domestic flights can sometimes be unpredictable (including unexpected delays) so make sure to give yourself enough time between the Lamu to Nairobi flight and your flight back home.

Practical information

Kenya visa requirements.

An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required to enter Kenya for tourism-related purposes. By completing a very easy online eVisa application, applicants can get a Kenya Electronic Travel Visa. Kenya’s ETA is good for either 90 or 30 days, depending on the application type. In two to three days, applicants might receive an approved Kenya ETA. Passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

Before applying, please review the list of nations eligible for Kenya ETA.

Is Kenya safe?

I’ve been living in Kenya on and off since 2009 and believe it’s quite safe. When going on safari I don’t think there is anything to worry about when it comes to safety. The camps, their guards and drivers are all very professional and know the dos and don’ts when viewing wildlife. Therefore it’s always good to listen when they give instructions on how to behave during a safari and during a wildlife encounter.

When exploring Nairobi make sure you are always aware of your surroundings. Avoid crowded areas as this is where you will usually encounter pickpockets. Always stay in safe areas of town after dark i.e. I would personally avoid the CBD after dark, but areas such as Westlands, Lavington, Gigiri and Karen are usually very safe.

Political demonstrations do happen from time to time so it’s good to check your country’s government warnings before travelling. Here’s a link to Australia’s advice on travelling to Kenya, as well as the United Kingdom and the United States .

Kenya itinerary: Final thoughts

A trip to Kenya is one of those bucket-list vacations that you’ll never forget. With a magical mix of wildlife, history and natural beauty, I hope this 2 weeks in Kenya itinerary has given you some inspiration to plan and book a trip to this incredible country!

About the author

Sidney is the founder of Discovering Kenya , a Kenyan travel blog that focuses on providing travel guides to anyone interested in visiting Kenya. He is passionate about Kenyan tourism and showcasing Kenya’s natural wonders to the world. In his free time he loves spending time in the ocean either by scuba diving or kitesurfing. Find him on Instagram and Facebook .

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

Is Kenya on your bucket list?

Related posts

Before you go… you might like these other East Africa travel blogs:

• East Africa Packing List: What to Wear on Safari and Beyond
• A Unique 2-Week Tanzania Itinerary: Adventure, Safaris and Beaches
• A Wildlife-Packed Uganda Itinerary: One Week in the Pearl of Africa
• Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda: What You Need to Know

KENYA ITINERARY: PIN IT FOR LATER

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About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

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A first-timer's guide to planning a safari in kenya.

Experts share practical tips for preparing for a successful safari.

A First-Timer's Guide to Planning a Safari in Kenya

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Before you begin your once-in-a-lifetime African adventure, make sure you talk to your physician about recommended travel vaccines and pack strategically with plenty of layers.

You've been dreaming about going on safari in Kenya ever since the credits rolled in "Out of Africa," and now you're ready to embark on the trip of your dreams . To make sure you get the most out of the country's spectacular wildlife and jaw-dropping landscapes, here is the information you'll need, so that the only surprises you'll encounter are ones that you'll love.

An Average Day on Safari

While every accommodation is unique, most camps follow a similar schedule. Led by a wildlife guide, you'll go on at least two game drives per day with other guests for three to four hours per ride. Along the way, you'll stop at picturesque locations to stretch your legs, grab a snack and revel in incredible scenery. In the middle of the day, when predators and other species are hiding in the shade, you'll be in camp relaxing. Expect to take your meals at camp, though dining in the wild is also common. At night, you'll cozy up to a warm fire and mingle with the other guests to share your day's adventures before letting the sounds of the bush serenade you to sleep.

Susan Portnoy

(Susan Portnoy)

Activities and Extra Costs

Game drives are the crux of most safaris, but there are plenty of other activities for you to enjoy, from guided walks and visits to tribal villages to hot air balloon rides over the Masai Mara or camel safaris in the Northern Frontier. Some activities are included in your daily rate, but "it's always a good idea to know ahead of time what's included in your stay, as many options may come with an additional price tag," says Linda Friedman, CEO of Custom Safaris. Also, keep in mind that you may be charged for park entry fees, laundry, premium liquors and other amenities.

Wildlife-Viewing Opportunities

"Kenya is known not only for its massive concentrations of game but also for its vast open plains. You can spot and track wildlife from a fair distance and there is almost always something to see and some sort of interaction between species," says Andrew Beck, a professional wildlife photographer and a co-founder of Wild Eye, a photographic safari company. There are also certain areas that contain larger concentrations of specific species. If you love elephants, consider Amboseli where herds can reach 100 members or more. And from August to October, the Masai Mara plays host to millions of wildebeest during the Migration, while species like the Grevy Zebra, Somali Ostrich, reticulated giraffe and the gerenuk can only be found in the north.

Guides know all about animal behavior and the area in which your camp is located, as well as the location of recent sightings, dens and kills. Still, they can't make animals appear on cue, so stay open to what the day brings. In the bush, the world can change on a dime; with a little patience, you'll have the time of your life.  

Family  

Taking your child on safari can be one of the best ways to instill a lifelong love of wildlife and respect for the environment, and in the last few years, more companies are enticing families with larger tents or villas and special programs designed with families in mind. As Friedman points out, it's important to ask up front if children are allowed or if there is a minimum age requirement. If your child is very young, you may be required to reserve a private vehicle.  

Photography

A DSLR camera and longer lenses are best for wildlife photography , but if that's not your objective, Beck suggests getting a point-and-shoot with the maximum optical zoom. "Don't even bother looking at the digital zoom feature as this is essentially a crop of the image," he says. It's also a smart idea to bring plenty of memory cards. There is nothing worse than having to delete images from your camera on the fly to make room for your next shot.

When it comes to the bush, safety at any lodging is top priority. Upon arrival, you'll be given all the dos and don'ts and it's important to follow directions. While safaris are safe, Friedman cautions, "These are wild animals, not kittens."

Preparing for Your Safari

Paperwork  You'll need a passport that is valid for at least six months prior to your arrival. Your passport must contain a minimum of two blank pages for stamps. You'll also need a $50 visa . You can apply for a visa online at Evisa.go.ke or you can wait until you arrive at the airport in Kenya.  

Vaccinations

According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are no mandatory vaccinations for travel to Kenya though you may be required to get a yellow fever shot if your travels take you through endemic zones prior to your arrival. The agency also advocates being up to date on immunizations for Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies and meningitis. Additionally, you may want to consider pills for malaria. Make sure to speak to your physician about your travel plans to determine what you need. 

Pack enough light casual attire for a long weekend and take advantage of the same-day laundry service (weather permitting) that the majority of camps provide. It's chilly in the morning and evening, but hot in the afternoon, so dress in layers. A good sunscreen is also a must-have, in addition to a wide brim hat and a good pair of polarized sunglasses. And flip-flops are fine for the jeep, but also pack a pair of comfortable sneakers.  

Small commuter planes are the main mode of transport into the bush and all the domestic carriers are sticklers about baggage restrictions. Bags must be soft, no longer than 26 inches and wheel-free, and the total luggage weight per person cannot exceed 15 kilograms (33 pounds), including your carry-on. If you go over the limit, your best-case scenario would be paying a fee, but in a worst-case scenario, you may have to buy a separate ticket for your baggage or wait until there is a plane with space available.

Money Matters

Kenya shillings is the local currency. You can pick up shillings at the airport upon arrival, but U.S. dollars are also widely accepted. Keep in mind, accommodations will accept major credit cards such as Visa or MasterCard (American Express is not as widely accepted) for amenities or gift shop purchases, but you should bring cash for gratuity as well as extras, such as cultural visits to local villages or souvenirs like handmade jewelry or other trinkets from local artisans.

Tips are not mandatory, but they are customary. Your guide should be at the top of your list, and according to Friedman, you should plan to pay $15-25 per person per day. If you have a large family, less per person is acceptable. If you want to distribute gratuity to all staff members, most camps have a staff box where guests can leave a gratuity of $5-10 per person per day. When in doubt, ask a manager for advice, Friedman says.

Tags: Travel , Kenya , Travel Tips

About En Route

Practical advice on the art of traveling smarter with tips, tricks and intel from En Route's panel of experts.

Contributors have experience in areas ranging from family travel, adventure travel, experiential travel and budget travel to hotels, cruises and travel rewards and include Amy Whitley , Claire Volkman , Holly Johnson , Marsha Dubrow , Lyn Mettler , Sery Kim , Kyle McCarthy , Erica Lamberg , Jess Moss , Sheryl Nance-Nash , Sherry Laskin , Katie Jackson , Erin Gifford , Roger Sands , Steve Larese , Gwen Pratesi , Erin Block , Dave Parfitt , Kacey Mya , Kimberly Wilson , Susan Portnoy , Donna Tabbert Long and Kitty Bean Yancey .

Edited by Liz Weiss .

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7 Day Kenya Itinerary: Luxury Safari & The Big Five

Kenya Itinerary: 7 Day Safari Experience

Indulge your adventurous side by embarking on a 7 day safari traversing through Kenya while blending luxury and comfort with raw unscripted wildlife adventures. From walking alongside rhinoceroses, to being hypnotized as you watch thousands of wildebeests and zebras swarm into murky waters to cross the Mara River while threatening crocodiles lurk nearby waiting for the perfect chance to strike. A trip to Kenya on safari during the Great Migration is impossible to forget.

Where to Stay in Amboseli

Where to stay in samburu, where to stay in the maasai mara, where to eat in nairobi, visit a local tribe.

When to Travel to Kenya for a Safari

Wildlife viewings are plentiful year round. Anytime between June and October , which is the dry season, is an excellent time to visit Kenya. Since there’s less rain, this naturally corresponds to there being fewer mosquitoes, and animals are generally easier to spot since they often congregate by water sources.

A visit to Maasai Mara from around August through September gives you the chance to witness perhaps the most incredible wildlife spectacle in the world, when the migratory animals cross the Mara River. The wildebeest migration consists of an estimated 1.5 million wildebeests, accompanied by ~250,000 zebras, and antelope species often reach Maasai Mara around August and they generally start returning back to the Serengeti as the rains begin again. While the migratory pattern is fairly predictable, the exact timing can never be guaranteed as the animals are moving in search of better grass.

Winetraveler Tip: If you’re scheduling your trip around the Great Migration and you have an extra week, I recommend spending a week in Tanzania first and then pick up this itinerary that saves the Mara River crossings as the grand finale. Follow along with our suggested 7 day Tanzania safari itinerary .

Select a Tour Operator

There are many tour operators to choose from at a wide range of price points to guide you on a Kenya Safari. Selecting a reputable company with experienced guides will maximize your safari experience. We booked our trip with Odyssey Safaris . You’ll get to see the “Big Five” game animals: lion, elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros. The trip is completely customizable and they’ll walk you through every step of the planning process and offer recommendations based on your personal travel preferences and budget.

Every detail about our trip with Odyssey was flawless, luxurious, adventure-packed, and exceeded all expectations. Without the expertise of our guides, we would have easily driven by many lions and a few cheetahs without ever realizing they were there. The tawny colored fur of lions and the spotted fur of leopards and cheetahs blends right into the tall blades of the beige dry grass. The guides communicated with each other throughout the park about the whereabouts of any highly sought after sightings and brought us close to any within reach.

Schedule a Kenya Safari Experience with Odyssey Safaris

Traveling to and Around Kenya

If you started in Tanzania, you can cross the Namanga border post, clear Immigration formalities and start your journey to Amboseli, Kenya . Alternatively, you can fly into Nairobi and then transfer to Amboseli. You can search for deals on flights here .

The day-to-day driving is in safari vehicles by experienced guides. To avoid very lengthy car drives, this itinerary suggests taking a few single-engine charter planes departing and landing at small airstrips. You can search for these flights with Safari Link .

7 Days on Safari in Kenya

First stop: amboseli (1 night).

Amboseli National Park is well-known for its large elephant population of about 1,200, and viewing immense wildlife while the magnificent towering Mount Kilimanjaro rises in the backdrop. This park, which has been recognized as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO , is located in southern Kenya on the border of Tanzania. Herds of elephants with white ivory tusks cool off in the swampy waters mostly submerged, baby elephants nurse and walk alongside their mothers, and you may witness two male elephants aggressively fight to establish dominance.

Hyena clans lay sprawled out along the dry earth while little babies scurry in and out of shaded holes and nestle into their mother’s tummies. I never realized how adorable baby hyenas were and how much they resembled puppies.

Other common wildlife encounters include zebras, wildebeests, buffalos, giraffes, hippos, gazelles, some lions, and occasional cheetahs. We only came across a few lions in Amboseli, no cheetahs, and we were told leopards are rarely seen.

The luxurious Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge is nestled into the grasslands of the national park. The rooms are comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. From the spacious outdoor terrace, which is a great place to toast a wonderful day of safari adventures, you may see zebras, elephants, impalas, and gazelles scattered over the expansive savanna plains. Vervet monkeys, which are cute little monkeys with black faces and grayish colored fur, may accompany you.

You can arrange a Champagne toast on top of Observation Hill with tasty appetizers before returning back to the lodge for a bush dining experience among the murmurs of wildlife. Observation Hill, a large hill overlooking the park, boasts having fantastic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, especially at sunset.

Winetraveler Tip: Travelers desiring to splurge on ultra-luxurious accommodation, check out Elewana Tortilis Camp Amboseli .

Second Stop: Samburu (2 nights)

From Amboseli, fly to Samburu via a layover in Nairobi.

What makes the reddish colored desert frontier of Samburu National Reserve  special is that it is the home to animals not found in many other parks. Patches of green shrubbery dot the semi-arid savanna while Ololokwe Mountain stands proud in the backdrop. Enormous masterful termite mounds, many appearing to be at least 12 feet tall, are common, and occasionally bare trees grow out of them. Fierce crocodiles patrol the brown waters of the Ewaso Ngiro River that also provides escape to the wildlife from the equatorial sun.

The patterns on the zebras and giraffes in Samburu are remarkably different than those we saw elsewhere throughout Tanzania and Kenya. Grevy’s zebras, the largest species of zebras, have a white underbelly and distinctively narrower stripes in comparison to the plains zebras. The spots on reticulated giraffes, living in Samburu, are cleaner and more defined than the other giraffes we had seen. The long-necked gerenuk is an antelope with an elongated neck that stands erect on its hind legs to feed on the leaves of high tree branches. We came across our first oryxes, which are large grayish colored antelope with long straight horns that have an incredible ability to survive long periods of time without water.

Elephants and hippos are also common in Samburu. The big cats are not known to be commonly seen. We did, however, see a pride of lions basking in the sun, and we spotted a couple of cheetahs from afar while sitting on our balcony at our lodge.

Samburu Simba Lodge reminded me of a luxurious 2-story town home community in the States. Right from our spacious private balcony that extended out in a triangular form overlooking the vast game reserve, we watched zebras and elephants roaming the expansive lands while sipping on wine.

Another lovely hotel option is Samburu Intrepids Luxury Tented Camp .

Third Stop: Mount Kenya (1 night)

Samburu to Mount Kenya is about a 2 hour and 15 minute drive.

The Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club is a slice of paradise set on the equator offering spectacular views of Africa’s second highest mountain, Mount Kenya reaching over 17,000 ft. high. The club’s founder was movie star William Holden, and its most famous former member is Winston Churchill. The luxury hotel is spread out over 100 acres and features meticulously manicured and velvety green lawns, a 9-hole golf course, a large pool, entrancing gardens, a hedge maze reminding me of Alice in Wonderland, ponds, and a nearby animal orphanage. Horseback riding, fishing, nature walks, and tranquil spa treatments are also available.

The Animal Orphanage , located in the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy, is only a short walk from the main hotel. Most of the animals roamed freely around the grounds. The orphanage was the home to many animals including cheetahs, a bongo, ostriches, giant tortoises, buffaloes, all kinds of fun monkeys, and small hippos. The monkeys jumped and crawled all over us while we fed them. We hand fed the ostriches and the small hippos. One of my highlights of the trip was when I bonded with the baby buffalo that took a fancy to me and followed my every step around the property.

Fourth Stop: Maasai Mara (2 nights)

Transfer to the Nanyuki airstrip and fly to the Ngerende Airstrip. From there, you will be only about 10 minutes to the Fairmont Mara Safari Club .

Nowhere else we had traveled (including our 7 prior days in Tanzania) compared in terms of the amount, variety, and density of wildlife we observed in the Maasai Mara National Reserve. It lies in the Great Rift Valley and is the most prolific game reserve in Kenya and the host of the Great Migration. Every year, millions of migratory terrestrial animals cross the crocodile and hippopotamus infested waters.

The natural beauty of Maasai Mara is immense and the herds of animals appear endless. The timing of our trip put us there at the perfect time to join the herds of wildebeests. For long stretches, countless wildebeests appeared in every direction all around us as far as the eye could see across the vast plains until they appeared to be no larger than black ants. Elephants, giraffes, buffalos, lions, cheetahs, warthogs, gazelles, impalas, topis, and hyenas are common. Some are lucky enough to see a leopard. Black rhinos are rare.

Mara River Crossing

At the crocodile and hippo infested waters of the Mara River, swarms of wildebeests and zebras attempt a crossing. Long, wide, and thick crocodiles lurk in the distance waiting and plotting their ambush. Zebras take turns standing watch to warn fellow zebras and the masses of wildebeests when the crocodiles are getting dangerously close. Most traveled safely across the river. Many did not. We watched as a crocodile did the death roll with a zebra.

For as scary as the crocodiles were, the territorial hippos commanded the waters. Anytime the crocodiles got too close to a huddle of hippos, a large male hippo would swim toward the crocodile warning them to back off. The crocodiles always listened.

We watched the scenes unfold at the Mara River crossing for hours and I could have stayed for hours longer.

Winetraveler Tip: This is a trip worth investing in a better camera or renting one. If I have the chance to bring my children back here to witness this phenomenon, I would rent a camera with a 600 mm lens .

Walk with Rhinos

Walk with two southern white rhinoceroses named Koffi Anan and Queen Elizabeth that are kept under 24/7 surveillance by rangers keeping watch for poachers. Being close to these powerful and massive creatures without any fence or barrier is simply incredible. They appeared calm and undisturbed by our presence while they slowly moved around eating the grass. We were warned how aggressive they could be and to not make any sudden movements or loud noises. The rhino tour was a part of our game drives conducted during our stay at the Fairmont Mara Safari Club .

The Fairmont Mara Safari Club is a series of luxurious furnished tents featuring running water, hard floors, lights, four post beds with comfortable mattresses, and situated right along the Mara River. Our tent had a beautiful front porch overlooking the meandering river that was the perfect spot to relax and soak in the wilderness.

Fifth Stop: Nairobi (1 night)

Fly from Ngerende to Nairobi.

Where to Stay in Nairobi

The Nairobi Serena Hotel  was lovely and was comparable to nice chain hotels such as Hilton and Marriott.

The appropriately named Carnivore Restaurant was outstanding with attentive staff and a lively atmosphere. It is akin to a Brazilian steakhouse. Servers pass around the tables with a continuous supply of a variety of meats, including steak, crocodile and ostrich, and carve the meats of your choice table-side.

Safari Add-Ons

A hot air balloon ride over the Massai Mara plains at sunrise is surely a thrilling experience. We left our hotel by 4 am to take part in this activity, but sadly had to return back to the hotel since the winds were too strong. Waking up early was still rewarding as the red eyes of wandering hippos while it was pitch black were visible. We were told hippos walk around 5 miles every night.

Immerse yourself in the culture and lifestyle of nomadic African tribes. Different tour operators stop at various villages for a fee paid to the village. We visited a Samburu village in Samburu and I had a two-on-one meeting with a Maasai tribal member named Kenneth in Amboseli. The Maasai are a well-known nomadic African warrior tribe frequently traveling between Tanzania and Kenya following rainfall patterns for better pastures for their cattle. The Samburu chief told us the only major difference between their tribe and the Maasai are that the Samburu members are better looking.

The informal meeting was an enlightening learning experience about their history, customs, childhood, and culture. The elders send the warriors to scope out the land to determine where the tribe should move. Visiting a tribe offered a glimpse into their day-to-day life and into their homes, but it felt like a commercialized display for tourists.

As we approached the village, a group of ladies warmly welcomed us with a song and dance. They wore bright colored clothing and beaded necklaces that had multiple rows stretching 8-12ish inches around their necks. They energetically insisted the ladies in our group join along. The warrior men, also wearing brightly colored clothing, held long sticks while they demonstrated their impressive jumping abilities, and then they showed us how they make fire by rubbing sticks.

Eighteen small huts made by women with mud, sticks, cardboard and cow dung were spread around the village in a circular shape enclosed by a wall of dead tree branches. The interior of the huts, while still very small, was more spacious than I had imagined. There was a wall separating the parents’ room from the kids’ room. There was even a small walled off area for the kitchen with a hole in the roof to allow smoke to escape. The floor was the dirt of the earth. The bedrooms had cow hides laid out to make sleeping more comfortable.

Kenneth explained their diet consists nearly completely of cow. The Maasai believe all the cows on earth were given to them by God, which created conflict with other tribes in the past. They eat the meat and fat from the cow, occasionally from a goat, and drink the milk and blood from the cow. Sometimes they will combine the two to have what Kenneth excitably described as a “blood milkshake.” They don’t eat fruits, vegetables, or other animals.

Cows are given to the family of a bride as part of her dowry before the girl is married with the average number of cows being 5. The wedding ceremony is a full day affair that starts early in the morning. There’s lots of dancing and many cows are involved in the ceremony. As a man obtains more cows, it is common for him to marry a second or third wife.

You can read more and get inspired by Lenore’s other adventurous travel guides here .

Frequently Asked Questions about a Kenya Itinerary with a Safari

When is the best time to do a kenya safari.

If you’re interested in the Great Migration, which is one of the most impressive natural spectacles in the world, you should plan your visit Kenya between July and October . During this period, over a million wildebeest and zebra migrate from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya, providing incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. For general wildlife viewing, the dry seasons from June to October and January to February are considered the best times. During these periods, vegetation is sparse and animals tend to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. Additionally, the weather during these periods is more pleasant with less rainfall and clear skies. Bird watchers, however, might prefer to visit between November and April when many migratory bird species are present. It’s worth mentioning that Kenya’s wildlife parks offer great wildlife viewing year-round and each season has its own charm. The off-peak rainy season (April to June) may mean more challenging road conditions, but it also brings fewer tourists, lower rates, and the lush, green landscape is a beautiful sight in itself.

How many days are ideal for a Kenya safari?

A Kenya safari is a journey into the heart of Africa’s vibrant wildlife, and to truly soak in the experience, a Kenya safari itinerary of about 7 to 10 days is ideal . This span allows you to explore the diverse landscapes and ecosystems across different national parks and reserves. You might spend the first 2-3 days immersed in the vast plains of the Maasai Mara Reserve, a spectacular location teeming with wildlife, and if you time your visit right, you could witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Great Migration. Dedicate a couple of days to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its stunning flocks of flamingos and rich birdlife. Venture into Amboseli National Park, where the iconic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro complements your wildlife sightings. Finally, you could spend a day or two in Tsavo, one of Kenya’s largest national parks, known for its red-dusted elephants. Each location offers unique experiences, making every day of your safari a distinct adventure. Read our complete itinerary and travel guide to plan your perfect trip.

What animals can I expect to see on a Kenya safari?

Kenya is home to a diverse range of wildlife. During a safari, you can expect to see the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), as well as cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, wildebeests, and various bird species.

Are Kenya safaris safe?

Kenya is generally a safe destination for safaris, with well-established tourism infrastructure and experienced guides. However, it’s always important to follow the instructions of your safari guide, respect wildlife, and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Schedule a Kenya Safari experience with a reputable tour operator like Odyssey Safaris .

What is the Great Migration, and can I witness it on a Kenya safari?

The Great Migration is a spectacular natural event where millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other herbivores migrate between the Maasai Mara in Kenya and the Serengeti in Tanzania. Depending on the timing of your safari, you may be able to witness this awe-inspiring phenomenon in the Maasai Mara.

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• 1 Week in Kenya — 4 Time-efficient Itineraries

One week may seem a bit short for a Kenya safari tour, but if you are looking for a quick yet fulfilling vacation, get ready to be surprised at how many 1-week Kenya trips are possible!

Kenya is brimming with safari game reserves. For a 7-day timeline, we advise concentrating on two or three game reserves to make the most of your time. After all, you probably won't want to spend too much of your time on the road, right?

In this article, we offer our four most popular 1-week Kenya itineraries ranging from bucket list safari experiences, such as Maasai Mara's, to luxurious safari adventures, such as in Laikipia. Are you excited? Read on to discover the very best 7-day Kenya trip itineraries!

1. 7-Day Classic Kenya Safari and Wildlife Adventure for First-Time Travelers

This is the most classic K enya safari trip for a first-time visit . During the trip, you would encounter diverse wildlife across three game reserves, take part in some outdoor activities, and learn a bit about its people. Here is the itinerary for your inspiration.

At Lake Nakuru , you could enjoy an engaging bird safari. Marvel at the vibrant flamingos dotting the lake and flying across the sky. 

Get to be excited by the thrilling wildlife you would see in Maasai Mara while game viewing. If you are lucky enough, you may see the Big Five in the park. For a unique cultural experience, we could arrange a visit to a tribal village. You will learn a bit about the local people and their different cultures.

Engage in a thrilling boat ride on Lake Naivasha. Picture yourselves marveling at the hippos and various wildlife up close.

 Enjoy a walking or biking trip in Hell's Gate National Park to see the non-dangerous animals up close in their natural habitat.

We believe you have your own way of travel. Our Kenya experts are ready to tailor a personal trip for you .

2. One Week Kenya Safari Adventure and Beach Holiday

With its beautiful landscapes, abundant wildlife, and world-class beaches, Kenya offers travelers a diverse range of experiences to create innumerable memories. Here is a 1-week itinerary that combines Kenya's popular safari destinations with relaxation on the white sandy beaches:

You would have 3 days of game drives in Maasai Mara, including morning and afternoon safaris, to enjoy the excitement of spotting animals together.

For a special and memorable experience , we would arrange bush dinners in the evenings for you. You would enjoy the delicious food and happy times together under the stars in the wild, with the sounds of wildlife in the background.

To make your visit even more special, we would arrange a hot-air balloon ride over Maasai Mara. Enjoy a memorable time spotting giraffes among the bushes and antelope on the plains.

You could spend 2 days relaxing on the beach or indulging in spa treatments in Diani. For a unique experience , we would arrange for you to take a snorkeling trip on a traditional dhow. You would sail out over the turquoise waters and explore the colorful marine life on the coral reefs just off the shore.

We believe every traveler has unique preferences for their Kenyan adventure. Consider our itinerary as inspiration, and allow us to create a bespoke journey just for you.

3. One-Week Exclusive Safari Experience

This itinerary offers unique and exclusive safari experiences, such as walking, camel or horseback safaris on the wide-open plains of the Laikipia Plateau. It is perfect for families and couples seeking engaging wildlife encounters. See the simple itinerary below:

• Day 1: Nairobi
• Days 2–3: Laikipia
• Days 4–6: Maasai Mara
• Day 7: Nairobi

Enjoy 2 days of exclusive game drives in Laikipia . You would see lions, elephants, and hyenas in the vast expanse. Experience the thrill of searching for the Big Five with your family or partner.

Are you looking for something beyond the usual safari? We could arrange a camel or horseback safari for you. Whether you're traveling as a family or as a couple, you would love the exhilarating ride toward the horizon in pursuit of wildlife.

Relish two thrilling days in Maasai Mara, which is home to diverse wildlife. During your stay, you would have a memorable opportunity to glide over the stunning landscapes of Maasai Mara in a hot-air balloon . Cherish magical moments together.

We would also arrange short nature walks in Maasai Mara with your guide. What could be more memorable than spending a few hours on foot, exploring the African plains together, and keeping an eye out for amazing wildlife encounters? Your guide will also share extensive knowledge about the local wildlife with you.

Interested in this itinerary? Contact us to customize it to your personal journey , tailored perfectly to fit your preferences and travel desires

4. One-Week Grand Kenya and Tanzania Safari Adventure

Are you looking to blend the best of Kenya and Tanzania for a diverse wildlife experience in a single trip? This itinerary, tailored for such an adventure, takes you through three of Africa's most renowned national parks: Maasai Mara in Kenya and the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania.

• Days 2–3: Maasai Mara
• Days 4–5: Serengeti National Park
• Day 6: The Ngorongoro Crater

Enjoy two exhilarating days of game drives in both the Maasai Mara and Serengeti National Park. These adjoining parks teem with an impressive variety of wildlife, such as wildebeest, elephants, rhinoceroses, leopards, and lions.

The adventure would continue as you journey to the Ngorongoro Crater, which hosts the most concentrated population of lions in Africa. Embark on an unforgettable hunt for these majestic predators in their natural habitat.

The ideal time for this itinerary is from July to October during the migration season. During this time, you would see vast herds of zebras and wildebeest moving across the plains between Serengeti and Mara. You might also have the unique chance to see the dramatic river crossings.

We understand that you are seeking more than just a standard 7-day itinerary. You desire a unique and memorable experience in Kenya . Treat our itinerary only as an inspiration. We can help you create a personalized itinerary that caters specifically to your preferences. 

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The best time to visit Kenya

By Maahi Shah

Kenya’s spectacular landscapes and phenomenal wildlife experiences make it worthwhile to visit throughout the year. The best time to visit Kenya depends on what you’re looking to experience and witness during your time there. The climate can be somewhat erratic, with the wet and dry seasons often overlapping. The most recommended season to visit the country is during the dry season which coincides with the Great Migration of the wildebeest and zebra. Here are all the essential details you need to know on the best time to visit Kenya.

Masai Mara National Park, Kenya

Jump to What is the best time to visit Kenya? Temperature throughout the year What is the best time to visit Kenya for safaris? What is the best time to visit Kenya for the Great Migration? What is the cheapest time to visit Kenya? How many days do I need for a trip to Kenya?

What is the best time to visit Kenya?

The best time to visit Kenya is from July to October. For those looking to witness the magic of the Great Migration, this season is ideal. These months are also a good time to experience many cultural events such as the Maralal Camel Derby – a day-long camel racing event in Samburu County, the East African Community Arts Festival Jamafest, which takes place every two years, or the Safari Sevens – an annual rugby sevens tournament hosted by Nairobi.

The dry season from mid-December is also a good time to visit. You might also get a chance to spot newborn animals such as baby giraffes and zebras. Besides safaris , you can also join in on the country’s many cultural festivals such as Jamhuri Day (Day of Independence, celebrated on 12 December every year), Rusinga Cultural Festival that celebrates the culture of the Abasuba people, Beneath the Baobabs Festival – a music festival in Kilifi, or ring in the New Year with festivities at Mombasa Beach.

January, February and March are good for safaris, but also for hiking in places like Hell’s Gate National Park, mountain climbing, snorkelling and diving at sites such as Watamu, Kisite and Kiunga. In February, you can experience the Mount Kenya Festival, which is a celebration of the country’s highest peak. These months also mark the peak season, drawing in larger crowds and leading to higher hotel and safari rates. The end of March marks the onset of the rainy season and it is best to plan your trip before that.

Temperature throughout the year

April to June: Heavy rains (25°-27°) July to October: Cool, dry and cloudy weather with a few wet spells (20°-26°) November to mid-December: Rains (24°- 30°) January to March: Hot, humid and dry weather (25°-30°)

What is the best time to visit Kenya for safaris?

While wildlife viewings are great all year round, the end of the wet season around mid-December up till March are particularly exceptional for wildlife sightings. Weather gods and clouds permitting, you can take in the sight of migratory birds amidst the lush-green landscapes at Masai Mara. January and February are usually the hot and dry months of the year, so animal sighting should be clear and easy during this time. On your safari, you will be able to spot the big five – the elephant, buffalo, leopard, lion and rhino along with other animals such as the spotted hyenas and big cats such as the jaguar and black panther. Kenya is home to 54 national parks and reserves, and depending on which one you go to, the safaris can last from three to four hours or the entire day.

What is the best time to visit Kenya for the Great Migration?

For wildlife enthusiasts, we’d definitely recommend planning a trip to Kenya around the Great Migration in the months of July to October, where you’ll get to witness over two million wildebeest, zebra and other herbivores such as gazelles making their way across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. Although July and August may encounter a few wet spells, the general lack of rain draws various animals toward the watering holes, making wildlife viewing easier. If you want to witness a sea of pink, you can also visit Lake Nakuru at the Nakuru National Park to spot flocks of flamingos.

Pink flamingos in Nakuru Lake, Kenya

What is the cheapest time to visit Kenya?

While you may be at an advantage if you visit the Masai Mara between January and February, as it marks the end of the Great Migration, these months are popular for safaris and other activities that draw a large number of travellers. To avoid peak-season crowds and enjoy lower rates on safaris, hotels and other experiences, October to December are ideal to plan your trip to Kenya. The advent of the dry season with a few erratic showers means you will be able to get clear wildlife sightings and also partake in a few cultural events.

How many days do I need for a trip to Kenya?

For those looking to immerse themselves in the culture and incredible wildlife of Kenya, a ten-day trip to the country is ideal. Your visit must include the Masai Mara National Reserve and other national parks such as Amboseli National Park for its view of Mt Kilimanjaro, Nairobi National Park and Aberdare National Park for its distinctive misty and lush-green landscape, valleys and waterfalls, amongst several others. Your trip will be incomplete without a visit to beaches such as Diani Beach – among the best spots for kite-surfing in Kenya, as well as Mombasa and Watamu beach. Kenya is also known for its diverse marine life, which you can explore through the many diving sites and marine national parks of the country such as Mombasa and Malindi. Depending on the month you choose to visit, you can also take part in the cultural festivities that take place across various regions of Kenya.

This story was initially published on Condé Nast Traveller India

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10 days Kenya itinerary: An Epic trip!

Last Updated on July 6, 2023 by asoulwindow

Table of Contents

10 days Kenya itinerary : An Epic trip !

Ten days may not allow a lot of time to experience Kenya in its totality, but this itinerary is enough to cover some of the top safari destinations and provide you deep insight into this fascinating country . 

Whether it’s endemic wildlife , dramatic landscapes , or simply the sheer variety of birds and animals , this unique safari package has been curated to offer the visitor the optimum gaming experience.

That said, all the parks listed here have a different feel, and there is no such thing like ‘best place to go’. While some have great wildlife viewing , others may have fewer animals , but fantastic wilderness appeal. So, let’s begin your ultimate wildlife trip to Kenya .

Day One: Nairobi 

This 10 days Kenya itinerary begins in Nairobi. Nairobi, the capital, with its unique blend of concrete jungles and natural beauty will be your point of entry in Kenya. You will be transferred to your hotel , to relax and unwind for the rest of the day.

Most tourists do not like to linger on in the chaotic city, but within its boundaries lies an untouched gem-the Nairobi National Park, the only game reserve in the world located within a city. They say, on a given day, you could be viewing a lion kill within 20 minutes of arrival into the country. Incredible!

Day Two: Amboseli National Park

Head early in the morning to Amboseli National Park. On arrival, have lunch at the Amboseli Serena Lodge, before heading out into the park for an afternoon game drive. 

When you see the large elephant herds , the park is famous for, and the stunning view of Mount Kilimanjaro in the background, you will realize why this is one of the most beloved parks of Kenya. Overnight at the Serena Lodge.

Day Three: Amboseli National Park 

Get cracking before dawn for an unforgettable morning game drive within the park. Not only Kilimanjaro looks stunning first thing in the morning, but the cool mountain air is best to see the big cats on the prowl.

You would be starving by now, so head back to the lodge for a late breakfast and relax for a few hours before heading out to the park for another afternoon drive. Animals may be a bit inactive at this time of the day, so it allows you to get a glimpse of them resting under the shade. Overnight at Serena Lodge.

Day Four: Lake Nakuru National Park

You will set off after breakfast for your next safari destination , the Lake Nakuru National Park in the Great Rift Valley. Once famous for its huge flocks of flamingos , Nakuru has now become a haven for large wild buffalo herds as well, apart from both the white and black rhinoceros .

Enjoy a hot and delicious lunch at the Elementaita Luxury Camp, before embarking on an afternoon game drive along the shores of Lake Elementaita to spot the flamingos, pelicans and other shore birds . Wildlife here includes baboons , waterbuck, lion, wild African buffalo, leopard , eland among others. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day Five: Masai Mara

You depart from Lake Nakuru after breakfast and drive to Kenya’s most famous park, the Masai Mara. A part of the massive Serengeti plains , the Mara plays host to the greatest wildlife spectacle on earth namely, the Great Migration .

Each year, nearly two million wildebeest and half a million zebras along with various species of antelope, endeavor to make a crossing across the crocodile-infested Mara River to access the green pastures on the other side.

After lunch at the Mara Serena Lodge, you will head out in the afternoon for a memorable game drive . Even if this is not the migration period, you have a good chance of seeing the Big 5 and other bird and animal life. Overnight at the Mara lodge.

Day Six: Masai Mara

Wake up well before dawn for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness the stunning Mara sunrise. Have a quick cup of tea and head out to the park to see the big cats in search of a meal in the cooler part of the day.

(Alternatively, you could opt by paying extra chance to go on a hot air balloon ride that will give you a bird’s eye view of all the action below, before setting down for a champagne breakfast in the bush)

Return to the lodge for a late breakfast and some rest. After lunch head out for another exploration of the Masai Mara, once the weather has cooled off a bit. Overnight at the Mara Lodge.

Day Seven: Naivasha

You bid a sad farewell to the Masai Mara after breakfast and drive towards Lake Naivasha for a day of lake exploring one of Kenya’s most beautiful lakes . On arrival, relax and have lunch at the Naivasha Simba Lodge and then head to the lake for an afternoon game drive .

Here you will come across the resident hippos and many different water birds . At the end of the day, retire to your Lake Naivasha accommodation.

Day Eight: Sweetwaters 

After early breakfast and a picnic hamper in hand depart for the Ol Pejeta Conservancy , also referred to as Sweetwaters. Your host here will be the elegant Sweetwater Tented Camp.

You will be driving through the beautiful farmlands of Kikuyu, before arriving at the foothills of Mount Kenya , the country’s highest mountain. Once at Ol Pejeta, you will be visiting the park’s famous chimpanzee sanctuary and meeting its other adopted residents like the rhinoceros . 

Here 26 orphaned chimps live in peace and harmony in their natural environment . Head out into the park proper for an evening game drive. Overnight at the camp.

Day Nine: Sweetwaters

The Sweetwaters Tented Camp is located overlooking a waterhole that is deftly illuminated at night so as to not disturb animals coming to drink. Keep a sharp eye as wild animals often come to the waterhole to quench their thirst.

After early morning breakfast, head out to the bush for a safari framed under the towering peak of Mount Kenya. Apart from the Big 5, Ol Pejeta is home to many other mammals and birds.  

Return to the lodge for lunch, enjoy some chill time and leave for your final safari on this Kenyan trip. Overnight at Sweetwaters Tented Camp.

Day Ten: Nairobi 

Enjoy a hearty breakfast and leave for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi to catch the flight to your next destination.

How best to pay for your Kenyan safari from abroad?

Note: How best to pay for your Kenyan safari from abroad?

Unfortunately, at some stage, you will have to figure out the best way to make payment for your Kenya trip . There is a broad range of methods available to minimize the charges you pay, both to the receiver and your bank. Here are some tips:

#1. Pay all your flight and safari bookings with your credit card as this method includes global insurance coverage in case things go wrong. However, you end up paying the surcharge.

#2. Exchange your currency through your local bank at home to save on unnecessary exchange costs. Though safaris are usually all-inclusive, you will still need cash for tips and miscellaneous purchases.

(Dollars are widely accepted and even preferred, so simply use USD all the way)

#3. Tips can add up on a safari trip, given the number of people behind the scenes who make the safari work. Set aside $100/day, for two people, and pay half to the hotel staff and the other half to drivers and guides

#4. M-Pesa is the preferred way to transfer money across Kenya due to its safety and unmatched convenience. It serves people who don’t have bank accounts or limited access to banking services.

#5. International Bank Transfers: They will charge between $40-$60, depending on the bank you use. This form of payment takes five working days for the transaction to complete.

#6. Credit card: As discussed above, you can pay by online credit card, subject to a surcharge of 3% added. They are better than banks, but you end still up paying a lot extra.

#7. Money Transfer Company: Money Transfer companies are a fast, low-fee way to send money to Kenya as their charges range between 0-1% depending on the currency in question. Wise formerly TransferWise, charges the real-time exchange rate, thereby making it the best option.

Frequently asked questions

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions on 10 days Kenya itinerary.

How many days in Kenya is enough?

It is never enough to stay in Kenya. Anything between 10 days in Kenya or 2 weeks in Kenya are perfect, whether you are travelling to Kenya for the first time or not. Although, personally I like to spend at least a month in a country. But many of my trips have been around 10 days long . 10 days are great to explore the best places to see in Kenya. During ten days in Kenya, you can explore wildlife as well as the city life!

What is the best month to go to Kenya?

The months of January and February are perfect if you want to spend 10 days in Kenya in good weather. This is also when it is easier to spot wild animals in and around the protected national parks of Kenya. However, I know many passionate wildlife enthusiasts who aim to visit Kenya for 10 days in the months of June, July, August, September and October so that they can witness the grand spectacle of the annual wild beast migration . People avoid visiting Kenya in the months of March, April and May because this is the rainy season here.

Is Kenya cheap for tourists? Is Kenya an expensive destination?

The wildlife safaris in Kenya do not come cheap. Especially if you are traveling around Kenya for 10 days, expect to allocated a heavy budget for the trip. The luxury hotels, game drive jeeps, meals etc add to the overall cost of 10 days in Kenya.

How many days do you need for safari in Kenya?

How many days do you need for safari in Kenya? 10 days are great if you want to do safari in Kenya to your heart’s content. It is not every day that you visit Kenya, so it makes sense to explore Kenya as much as you can. 10 days will help to enjoy the best of Kenya.

Is it safe to travel to Kenya right now?

Yes, Kenya is absolutely safe to visit any time of the year. Being a tourist magnet, thanks to its rich wildlife and vibrant Masai culture , Kenya remains one of the most tourist friendly nations of the world.

Conclusion: Are 10 days in Kenya worth it?

Is it worth it to spend 10 days in Kenya? Yes, I know many wildlife enthusiasts who, driven by their passion, spend millions on a 10 days Kenya safari. There is so much to do in Kenya that even 10 days are not enough. You can also customize this 10 days Kenya itinerary as per your taste, budget and time in hand.

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What Solar Eclipse-Gazing Has Looked Like for the Past 2 Centuries

Millions of people on Monday will continue the tradition of experiencing and capturing solar eclipses, a pursuit that has spawned a lot of unusual gear.

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By Sarah Eckinger

• April 8, 2024

For centuries, people have been clamoring to glimpse solar eclipses. From astronomers with custom-built photographic equipment to groups huddled together with special glasses, this spectacle has captivated the human imagination.

Creating a Permanent Record

In 1860, Warren de la Rue captured what many sources describe as the first photograph of a total solar eclipse . He took it in Rivabellosa, Spain, with an instrument known as the Kew Photoheliograph . This combination of a telescope and camera was specifically built to photograph the sun.

Forty years later, Nevil Maskelyne, a magician and an astronomy enthusiast, filmed a total solar eclipse in North Carolina. The footage was lost, however, and only released in 2019 after it was rediscovered in the Royal Astronomical Society’s archives.

Telescopic Vision

For scientists and astronomers, eclipses provide an opportunity not only to view the moon’s umbra and gaze at the sun’s corona, but also to make observations that further their studies. Many observatories, or friendly neighbors with a telescope, also make their instruments available to the public during eclipses.

Fredrik Hjalmar Johansen, Fridtjof Nansen and Sigurd Scott Hansen observing a solar eclipse while on a polar expedition in 1894 .

Women from Wellesley College in Massachusetts and their professor tested out equipment ahead of their eclipse trip (to “catch old Sol in the act,” as the original New York Times article phrased it) to New London, Conn., in 1922.

A group from Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania traveled to Yerbaniz, Mexico, in 1923, with telescopes and a 65-foot camera to observe the sun’s corona .

Dr. J.J. Nassau, director of the Warner and Swasey Observatory at Case School of Applied Science in Cleveland, prepared to head to Douglas Hill, Maine, to study an eclipse in 1932. An entire freight car was required to transport the institution’s equipment.

Visitors viewed a solar eclipse at an observatory in Berlin in the mid-1930s.

A family set up two telescopes in Bar Harbor, Maine, in 1963. The two children placed stones on the base to help steady them.

An astronomer examined equipment for an eclipse in a desert in Mauritania in June 1973. We credit the hot climate for his choice in outfit.

Indirect Light

If you see people on Monday sprinting to your local park clutching pieces of paper, or with a cardboard box of their head, they are probably planning to reflect or project images of the solar eclipse onto a surface.

Cynthia Goulakos demonstrated a safe way to view a solar eclipse , with two pieces of cardboard to create a reflection of the shadowed sun, in Lowell, Mass., in 1970.

Another popular option is to create a pinhole camera. This woman did so in Central Park in 1963 by using a paper cup with a small hole in the bottom and a twin-lens reflex camera.

Amateur astronomers viewed a partial eclipse, projected from a telescope onto a screen, from atop the Empire State Building in 1967 .

Back in Central Park, in 1970, Irving Schwartz and his wife reflected an eclipse onto a piece of paper by holding binoculars on the edge of a garbage basket.

Children in Denver in 1979 used cardboard viewing boxes and pieces of paper with small pinholes to view projections of a partial eclipse.

A crowd gathered around a basin of water dyed with dark ink, waiting for the reflection of a solar eclipse to appear, in Hanoi, Vietnam, in 1995.

Staring at the Sun (or, How Not to Burn Your Retinas)

Eclipse-gazers have used different methods to protect their eyes throughout the years, some safer than others .

In 1927, women gathered at a window in a building in London to watch a total eclipse through smoked glass. This was popularized in France in the 1700s , but fell out of favor when physicians began writing papers on children whose vision was damaged.

Another trend was to use a strip of exposed photographic film, as seen below in Sydney, Australia, in 1948 and in Turkana, Kenya, in 1963. This method, which was even suggested by The Times in 1979 , has since been declared unsafe.

Solar eclipse glasses are a popular and safe way to view the event ( if you use models compliant with international safety standards ). Over the years there have been various styles, including these large hand-held options found in West Palm Beach, Fla., in 1979.

Parents and children watched a partial eclipse through their eclipse glasses in Tokyo in 1981.

Slimmer, more colorful options were used in Nabusimake, Colombia, in 1998.

In France in 1999.

And in Iran and England in 1999.

And the best way to see the eclipse? With family and friends at a watch party, like this one in Isalo National Park in Madagascar in 2001.

When is Eid al-Fitr 2024 and how is it celebrated?

The three-day festival celebrates the completion of the fasting month of Ramadan by Muslims across the world.

As a new moon was not sighted on Monday evening after Maghrib prayers, Muslims in Saudi Arabia and neighbouring countries will fast one more day, completing 30 days of Ramadan. The first day of Eid will then be celebrated on Wednesday, April 10.

The first day of Eid al-Fitr is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon marking the start of the month of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar.

Keep reading

A ramadan no palestinian will ever forget, the cost of a ramadan iftar meal around the world, ramadan 2024: where do your dates come from, in washington, dc: celebrating ramadan, protesting israel’s siege of gaza.

Lunar months last between 29 and 30 days so Muslims usually have to wait until the night before Eid to verify its date.

Other countries follow independent sightings.

When the sighting has been verified, Eid is declared on television, radio stations and at mosques.

How do Muslims celebrate Eid?

Traditionally, Eid is celebrated for three days as an official holiday in Muslim-majority countries. However, the number of holiday days varies by country.

Muslims begin Eid day celebrations by partaking in a prayer service that takes place shortly after dawn, followed by a short sermon.

On their way to the prayer, which is traditionally held in an open area, Muslims recite takbeerat, praising God by saying “Allahu Akbar”, meaning “God is great”.

It is customary to eat something sweet before the prayer, such as date -filled biscuits known as maamoul in the Middle East. This particular festival is known as the “sweet” Eid – and the distribution of sweets is common across the Muslim world.

Muslims usually spend the day visiting relatives and neighbours and accepting sweets as they move around from house to house.

Each country has traditional desserts and sweets that are prepared before Eid or on the morning of the first day.

Children, dressed in new clothes, are offered gifts and money to celebrate the joyous occasion.

Girls and women in many countries decorate their hands with henna. The celebration for Eid begins the night before as women gather in neighbourhoods and large family gatherings for the application of henna.

In some countries, families visit graveyards to offer their respects to departed family members right after the morning prayers.

It is common for Muslim-majority countries to decorate their cities with lights and hold festivities to commemorate the end of the fasting month.

Eid amid the onslaught in Gaza

For some 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza this Eid, this will be the first Muslim religious holiday after more than 33,000 people have been killed in Israeli attacks. With little food aid, and very limited water, Gaza’s Eid al-Fitr will be mired in destruction amid the continuing attacks.

What are common Eid greetings?

The most popular greeting is “Eid Mubarak” (Blessed Eid) or “Eid sa’id” (Happy Eid). Eid greetings also vary depending on the country and language.

The video below shows how people say Eid Mubarak in different languages around the world.

Watch CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

More from CBS News

How often do total solar eclipses happen?

When is the next total solar eclipse in the U.S.?

Is it safe to take pictures of the solar eclipse with your phone?

See the list of notable total solar eclipses in the U.S. since 1778

2044 solar eclipse path: See where in US totality hits in next eclipse

Compared to this year's eclipse, with a path of totality that will cross over 13 states, the 2044 total solar eclipse won't have as quite as broad of a reach. here's what to know:.

Millions of Americans are by now eagerly awaiting the next total solar eclipse , which is only hours away from passing over a large swath of the continent .

But when the celestial event comes and goes, the awe-inspiring impression it leaves on skygazers may leave them with one question: "When can we see that again?"

Unfortunately, we'll have to wait awhile – this sort of spectacular astral phenomenon doesn't happen very often . Here's what we know about the next total solar eclipse that will cross over the contiguous U.S.

Solar eclipse glasses: What to know about glasses, safe viewing before the solar eclipse

When will the next total solar eclipse happen in the U.S?

Only seven years have passed since Americans had the opportunity to view a total solar eclipse, a relatively rare celestial event in which the moon appears to us here on Earth to completely block the sun.

The resulting fleeting moments of darkness can last for minutes or just mere seconds and is known as " totality ," whereby the sun's outermost layer known as the corona makes a rare appearance.

Today's total solar eclipse , the first in North America since 2017, will travel over portions of northern Mexico, thousands of miles of the U.S. and the maritime provinces of Canada, according to NASA . According to astronomers, this eclipse will be brighter, will last longer and will be visible to more people than the last one in North America.

It's also the last one for 20 years in the United States.

After Monday, the next total solar eclipse viewable from the lower 48 states will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

2044 total solar eclipse path of totality

Compared to this year's eclipse, with a path of totality that will cross over 13 states, the 2044 total solar eclipse won't have as quite as broad of a reach .

The Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach and political space advocacy, says that during the 2044 eclipse, the path of totality will only touch three states.

The eclipse will begin in Greenland, sweep through Canada and end around sunset in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

It's not too early to start thinking about where you want to witness it. According to whenisthenexteclipse.com , Americans may want to make sure their passports up to date.

The place to be will likely be Banff National Park in Alberta and Jasper National Park , with Calgary and Edmonton also within the path of totality.

What to know about the 2033 eclipse in Alaska

Outside of the "lower 48," Alaska is set to experience a total solar eclipse much sooner.

On March 30, 2033, a total solar eclipse will occur in Russia and cross over Alaska, according to nationaleclipse.com . The maximum duration of totality for this eclipse will be 2 minutes and 37 seconds.

Contributing: Mary Walrath-Holdridge and Gabe Hauari

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]