budget travel kenya

17 ways to help you visit Kenya on a budget

Nov 30, 2023 • 9 min read

Camping in national parks is an excellent way to stretch your budget in Kenya © PeopleImages.com - Yuri A / Shutterstock

Kenya is not generally considered an expensive place to travel, but its developed tourist industry means prices can be a little higher than other African countries.

If you plan to see a lot of this beautiful nation, costs can add up – especially if you want to go on safari. While luxury lodges have come to symbolize the safari experience in tourism campaigns and glossy magazines, there are plenty of alternatives – you can camp, opt for midrange accommodations, stay with a local community or travel off-season.

With a wide choice of hotels, apartments and restaurants, Nairobi has options for every budget. Eating street food and using low-cost transportation will also save you money. Beach resorts span the price spectrum, too, from 5-star luxury and stylish, staffed villas to beach bungalows and cut-price boutique hotels. Here’s how to visit Kenya on a budget.

1. Compare direct and indirect flights

Indirect flights to Kenya are often cheaper, so consider flying into other African hubs, such as Addis Ababa in Ethiopia or Johannesburg in South Africa , to see how much you can save. Excellent deals are not uncommon, and a number of African carriers have frequent flights into Nairobi.

If you’re traveling from the west coast of North America, you could also consider flying via Southeast or East Asia. Set up flight alerts on sites like Skyscanner or Google Flights to get a notification when the route and dates you’ve chosen see a price drop. It’s worth signing up for airline newsletters such as the one from   Kenya Airways , which often publicizes exclusive offers within a specified time period.

2. Hop on the bus or take an Uber from the airport

If you’re landing in Nairobi, use the free airport wi-fi to log into Uber. Fares via the app are up to a third cheaper than those charged by official airport taxis – typically KSh2000 to the city center. Alternatively, take the airport bus (number 34), which costs KSh35 from outside Terminal 1.

3. Book a car with a driver for multi-stop itineraries

Hiring a private car and driver is an affordable and fun way to travel around Kenya, particularly for groups, as it gives you the freedom to stop off at viewpoints, roadside cafes and anywhere else you want. Arrange hire with a local travel agent or at your accommodation, but make sure you confirm the day rate. This can vary depending on the vehicle, distances and terrain, but it works out to around KSh6000 a day, plus the cost of any extras, such as gas and money for the driver’s meals and accommodations.

Some lodges and hotels will have their own accommodations for drivers, but it’s not always the best quality, so be responsible and ethical by asking what they offer in advance (directly or through your tour operator). If it’s not up to scratch, add another KSh1500 to KSh6000 to the day rate so the driver can find their own accommodation. They’re usually familiar with the area.

4. Travel during Kenya’s shoulder seasons

There are several ways to save money if you’ve got the flexibility to travel outside of Kenya’s busiest tourist periods , typically July to October and January and February, after the short rains. International flights and accommodations will both cost a little less, and if you travel outside of the Great Migration (July to October), you can also pick up good deals for the Masai Mara , which is fantastic pretty much any time of year. For a cheaper safari, book between the short and long rains (January to March) when prices are usually lower than during the peak vacation season.

Beach resorts and hotels offer great deals outside the peak periods too. Shop for bargains in October and November or before the rains in March and April. Traveling in the rainy season can also be a winner as the downpours are often short-lived, the landscapes are lush, and the price difference can be significant.

5. Avoid domestic flights in favor of slow travel

Domestic flights are fairly reasonable in Kenya – costing around KSh7500 for a one-way from Nairobi to Mombasa  or other coastal destinations such as Malindi . But it's cheaper and more eco-conscious to travel by long-distance bus, with equivalent fares of around KSh1600. For a slower, even more sustainable journey, take the train. Routes are limited, but Nairobi to Mombasa only costs KSh1000 in economy class and KSh3000 in first class.

6. If you have to fly, book in advance

Despite a growing number of carriers, popular domestic routes still get fully booked. Buy flights in advance to get lower fares and secure the days and times you wish to travel. Airlines differ in when they release new tickets, so book as soon as you know your dates – flights are often either non-refundable or not easily changed.

7. Try street food and korogas

Kenya has a flourishing restaurant scene, but street food and cafes can be a great way to eat well and save money – it’s hard to resist roadside snacks like freshly grilled corn on the cob, nyama choma (roasted meat), and grilled matoke (plantain). Kenyans will also head to restaurants that specialize in koroga (barbecue) to share large, good-value platters of meat, tawa (griddled) dishes, and pizzas cooked on a jiko (charcoal-burning stove).

8. Don’t dismiss the hostels

Hostels across the world have modernized in the last few years and Kenya is no exception. It’s now standard for dorm rooms to have beds with privacy curtains, personal plug sockets, USB points and reading lights. Many also offer private rooms with en-suite bathrooms.

Kenyan hostels are often cheaper than their hotel equivalent, with many new or recently refurbished establishments offering better quality private rooms than some midrange hotel options. A few standouts include the award-winning eco-hotel Distant Relatives above Kilifi's lagoon, sustainable eco-accommodation Kobi Farm on the border of the Masai Mara National Reserve, and Wildebeest Eco Camp , which has everything from deluxe tents to dorm beds in Nairobi.

9. Go camping

The cheapest way to stay inside Kenya's national parks is to camp. Sleeping under the stars can be a magical experience, especially as most parks have showers, restaurants and bars, too. Rates vary but expect to pay anything upwards of KSh1300 a night with your own tent and bedding, or around KSh2500 for a pre-constructed tent. It's around KSh6500 if you want cooked meals included too.  Kenya Wildlife Service lists the amenities for each park. Because they’re much cheaper, they’re also popular – book ahead, especially in the high/dry season.

10. Stay outside the national parks

Lodges and accommodations inside national parks usually come with a hefty price tag. If you’re looking to save shillings, book a safari lodge or hotel located just outside the park’s boundaries (but not too far if you’re planning an early-morning game drive). For cheaper digs, check out village stays or camps aimed at backpackers (even if you aren’t one). As well as pitches for tents, many offer pre-pitched tents or cabins.

11. Book a beach villa with a chef (honestly)

Accommodation with its own cook might sound indulgent, but renting a private house or villa along the Indian Ocean coast or the Lamu Archipelago has become increasingly popular. Costs vary depending on the quality of the property, the location, and the facilities, but you can often rent a 5-star, luxury property for around half the price you’d pay for a hotel of equivalent standard.

Most properties are staffed with a chef and housekeeping. With such delicious, fresh ingredients in Kenya, this is an affordable way to dine like royalty (while also saving on eating out each night). You can request meals or ask the chef to cook their own specialties for little more than the price of a grocery store shop. We recommend tipping at the end of your stay, even if service is included in the rental cost.

12. Plan your itinerary carefully…

You can save a lot – and avoid unnecessary travel – by planning your trip carefully. Many of Kenya's best things to do are spread out across the country, so unless you’ve got plenty of time and money, trying to visit Lake Turkana in the north, then Lamu Island and Tsavo National Park in the southeast in a single trip just isn’t feasible. 

13. …and add in time for Nairobi

Whatever your proposed itinerary, factor in a few days in Nairobi. The often-overlooked capital is a great place for anyone on a budget – you can always find a good hotel deal, there’s a wide choice of restaurants and bars, and if a safari trip is out of the question, you can always head to Nairobi National Park for the day. It’s the only national park in the world located inside a city.

14. Book your safari when you’re in Kenya

Unless you’re staying at high-end lodges, Kenya is actually an affordable safari destination with a wide selection of mid-range lodges, eco-camps, community village stays, and hotels. If safari lodges aren’t as full as expected or if it’s low or shoulder season, you can pick up excellent packages that include transport, meals, guides and game drives for half the expected cost.

This doesn’t necessarily mean booking directly. Local travel agents can often find stellar last-minute deals, but you can check out websites such as Safari Bookings , which brings together a wide range of operators offering budget (and luxury) safari packages that are bookable for the next day onward. They include trips for solo travelers too.

15. Don’t forget about national park admission fees

If you're traveling independently, don't forget to budget for National Park admission costs, which vary from park to park. For example, Nairobi National Park charges US$40 to non-residents for entry, while admission to the Masai Mara is US$80 for 24 hours if you are staying outside of the reserve and US$70 if you're staying inside.

16. Be mindful of the exchange rate

Don’t lose out by changing money in a rush. While rates are generally decent in banks and official money exchange bureaus, it’s always advisable to check the day’s exchange rate on an app such as xe.com to make sure what you’re getting is reasonable. If you’re en route to Tanzania and have leftover Kenyan shillings, you’ll get a more favorable exchange rate on the Tanzanian side of the border.

17. Barter a little, but not too hard

It’s standard to haggle a little in Kenya – with a smile – at markets and in certain shops like fabric or souvenir stores. Market stall holders may start with a higher price in the first place, and even expect good-natured haggling. Decide what you feel you want to pay, but don’t push it too low. Most sellers won’t accept a price they don’t want to sell at, so  don’t haggle to the last shilling  and always remain respectful.

Daily costs in Kenya

• Dorm bed at a hostel: KSh1400–2200
• Double room in a midrange or boutique hotel: KSh4000–20,000
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from KSh7500
• Three-day budget to mid-range safari package: KSh50,000–80,500
• Public transport ( matatu or minibus): KSh150–650
• Uber across town: KSh160–800
• Taxi with driver for sightseeing: from KSh3000 for a half-day
• Admission to major attractions: KSh1200–3000
• Coffee : KSh250–390
• Sandwich or light cafe lunch: KSh380–900
• Dinner for two: KSh1200–4000
• Beer at a bar: KSh150–260

This article was first published August 2022 and updated November 2023

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Wanderlust Movement | A South Africa Travel Blog

How to Travel Kenya on a Budget

April 18, 2019 by Lauren Melnick

Last Updated on September 27, 2023 by Lauren Melnick

Hell, it’s sometimes cheaper to fly to Europe than our African neighbours. And with quite a few countries using the US dollar, it doesn’t take much to make your wallet burst into years.

But I’m happy to report that Kenya is one of the cheapest African countries I’ve travelled to over the last three years. I whizzed around the country in dirt cheap domestic flights , I ate my weight in glorious R 3 avocado s, and I didn’t have to pay for anything in dollars!

If you’re heading to Kenya and you want to know how to save your money for travel  and make your Rand or Dollar stretch further, ya girl has got your back.

Here’s how to travel Kenya on a budget!

Table of Contents

How to Find Cheap Flights from South Africa to Kenya

Cheap domestic flights, nairobi to mombasa train, local transportation, diani beach, food costs in kenya, giraffe center, private snorkelling half-day trip in watamu, walking safari in hells gate national park, bush babies, stand up paddle boarding or kayaking, visit the golden spider restaurant in watamu, masai mara on a budget.

The first step in any budget traveller’s plan is to find cheap flights. When I booked my flights to Kenya, I came across an incredible deal on Skyscanner and ended up paying almost half price for my airfare ticket.

If you want to get in on these incredible deals and up your cheap flight game, I’ve written a full guide on travel hacking tactics I use to get a better price. Earlier this week, I snagged return flights from Johannesburg to Belgium for R 3900.00!

My credit card has never been swiped faster.

But if you’re too lazy to read the guide or you’re short on time, the biggest takeaway is BE FLEXIBLE with your dates. It’s how I find the majority of the deals.

Read More:  How To Book Cheap Flights From South Africa To Your Dream Destination

Getting Around Kenya on a Budget

I spent a month in Kenya, basing myself in Nairobi as part of a digital nomad retreat . During the week, I explored the city’s delicious restaurant and cafe scene, and on the weekend’s I bought cheap flights to Kenya’s incredible coastline.

If it weren’t for the ridiculously cheap local flights I found, I wouldn’t have been able to travel Kenya on a budget and see as much as I did. I found that the best budget airlines were Fly-Sax (I used them for the weekend trip to Diani Beach) and Kenya Airways (I flew with them to Malindi).

I paid around R 1000 ($70) for return flights for both destinations

I wish I had the time to take the Nairobi to Mombasa train! It’s a high-speed service that shoots across the two cities reducing the travel time from 15 hours to 4h 30 minutes!

Tickets cost Kshs 1,000 ($11) for economy class and Kshs 3,000 ($31) for first class.

As you can see, a return journey costs the same price as return airfare between the two cities. But the train is the better option for the environment if you’re trying to reduce your carbon footprint while travelling.

You can buy your tickets at the train station, via Mpesa or through the Madaraka Express website. Book your trip at least seven days in advance as tickets sell out.

I don’t know what I’d do without Uber in my life. I haven’t haggled with a taxi driver in eons, and I don’t miss it one bit.

With that off my chest, I spent quite a lot of time in Uber’s while living in Nairobi. It’s a massive city, and while it’s safe to walk around, it’s going to take you ages to get anywhere.

(That being said, if you leave your hotel during rush hour in the morning or evening, it will be quicker to walk. lol)

Uber is a safe, reliable way to get around Kenya on a budget. You can expect to pay anywhere from 250 KES (R34 / $2)  for a short trip for 350-500 KES (R49-70 / $3-5)  if you’re gallivanting across the city like me.

Oh, Taxify is also a thing in Nairobi, but I’m brand loyal.

If you want a unique Kenyan experience, you have to take the local transportation. Just like in South Africa , shared transport is organised chaos is big cities like Nairobi, but there will never be a dull moment.

The bad driving is not for the faint of heart. It’s best to close your eyes and only open them again when you arrive at your final destination.

If you don’t, you’ll squeal endlessly with your eyes bulging out of your head like me.

In Nairobi, you can use the local matatu’s (shared minibus taxis) to go just about anywhere. Whether it’s a ride through the city or you want to travel further afield to Hells Gate National Park.

If you’re visiting one of the smaller coastal towns like Diani Beach and Watamu, you can take tuk-tuks! These little guys are way less scary and are a super affordable way to get around.

I paid 1,500 KES (R200 / $14) to get from Malindi Airport to my hotel with a tuk-tuk. A regular taxi would have cost 2855 KES (R400 / $28).

In Diani, you can get to pretty much anywhere in the town with 50 KES (R7 / $0.50) and a tuk-tuk.

Read More:  Travel to Kenya: 15 Useful Things To Know Before You Go

Where to Stay in Kenya on a Budget

I don’t think Nairobi has great mid-range hotels. The city shines with its apartment rentals. Whether you’re an AirBNB’r or you’re in a committed relationship with Booking.com , there are tons of super affordable listings to choose from on those sites.

Uptown Studio Flat is a private apartment that costs R 300 per night. It’s centrally located, and the apartment comes with a fully equipped kitchenette, a 24-front desk, a private bathroom, a patio, and a garden.

Bring along a friend, and you’re each paying R150 a night – that’s how much a bed in a dorm room costs!

Stilts Backpackers is where I wished I had ended up for my weekend away in Diani Beach. It’s a beautiful hostel only minutes from the beach and has a delicious on-site restaurant (Stilton Pub) where you can hang out with bush babies every evening. The price for a dorm room is R140 ($10), and you can rent private apartments starting at R350 ($25) per night.

Watamu has a lot of bougie all-inclusive resorts, and it’s not the most budget-friendly destination in Kenya for solo travellers. If you’re on a tight budget, I’d recommend coming here in a group to split costs for accommodation.

I travelled to Watamu off-season (October) and got a really good deal on a room at Mawe Resort Watamu Boutique Hotel. Rooms here are usually well over R 1,000 a night, but my friend and I split a room for R 300 each per night.

Read More:  7 Epic Things to Do in Diani Beach, Kenya

When I walked into a Nairobi grocery store for the first time and saw R3 avocados.

I cried a little.

Back at home Woolies was charging R 60 an avocado. I couldn’t have avocado toast every morning, the basic white girl inside me had been suffering.

Besides gorging myself on avocados for an entire month, I cooked most of my meals at my Airbnb, or I gave into UberEats. Here are some of the prices for food in Kenya to give you an idea of how affordable the city is for budget travellers.

Here are some of the prices for groceries I bought during my one month stay in Nairobi:

• Avocado: 10 – 20 KES (R1.38 – 2.76 / $0.099 – 0.20)
• Cereal: 650-800 KES (R90 – 110 / $6-8)
• Pasta: 130-230 KES (R18 – 32 / $1-2)
• Vegetables: 20 – 40 KES (R3-6) per item

Here’s what you can expect to pay when eating out at restaurants or on UberEats:

• Cup of coffee: 170 -240 KES (R23 – 33 / $1.60 – 2.37)
• A large bottle of local beer (600 ml): 200 KES at local places and 300-350 KES at upscale spots.
• Fresh orange juice: 400-500 KES (R55.23 – 69.04 / $3.95 – 4.93)
• Meal at a kibanda (roadside food stall): 300 KES (R41.42 / $2.96)
• Meal at basic restaurant/coffee shops: 700-900 KES (R96.95 – 124.26 / $6.91 – 8.88)
• Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 1100 KES and up (R151.88 / $10.86)

Read More:  The Best Restaurants in Nairobi for Vegans

Activities in Kenya on a Budget

How often in your life are you going to get to feed giraffes? The majority of the world: 0

But if you’re in Nairobi, you’ll be one of the few people in the world who will know the texture of a giraffes tongue.

The Giraffe Center is one of the best things to do in Kenya on a budget. It’s also the closest your frugal ass is going to get to stay at Giraffe Manor which is on the same property.

The centre is open every day from  9 AM to  5 PM, and I’d suggest getting there as soon as it opens to avoid the tour group crowds.

You’ll also need to bring along a card that has been authorised for international payments. The Giraffe Center doesn’t accept cash payments, only card or Mpesa.

Entrance for Non-Residents: 1000 KES (R138 / $10)

Besides the crazy hotel prices, Watamu is one of the best places to visit in Kenya on a budget. You can go on a PRIVATE half-day snorkelling trip in the beautiful Watamu Marine National Park for only 5000 KES (R690 / $ 50)!

When I went, I split the cost with two girls, bringing down the price to only 1,666 KES (R230 / $16)  per person.

The marine park has some of the best snorkelling conditions I’ve ever come across, and the reefs are healthy and full of all kinds of creatures. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a sea turtle and some spinner dolphins.

You also don’t need to organise your trip in advance. All you need to do is go to the Blue Bay entrance first thing in the morning and hire a guide.

You will need to pay in cash, and the half-day trip fee doesn’t include the marine park entrance fee ($17 / R230)

Total Cost for a Solo Traveller: R920 / $66

Despite the deceiving name, you won’t find demons lurking in Hells’ Gate National Park or a gateway to the underworld. Instead, you’ll want herds of zebra, giraffe, eland and more!

The best part? There’s no predator’s in the park so you can go on a self-guided walking safari and see them up close!

Hells Gate National Park is an easy day trip from Nairobi.  If you don’t want to rent a car, you can catch a local matatu to the town next to the park and get a local taxi to take you to the park’s entrance.

Or if you’re feeling bougie, you can sign up for a day trip with various tour companies in Nairobi. It’s not cheap, but it’ convenient.

With the entrance to Hell’s Gate costing $26, I highly recommend staying over at one of the nearby lodges or backpackers so you can have a full day at the park. The park opens at 6 AM closes at 6 PM, and with so much to see and do – you’ll want to get your money’s worth.

Hell’s Gate National Park does not accept cash – you’ll need to pay with a credit card or Mpesa.

Entrance Fee: $26 (R350)

If you’re planning to visit Diani Beach while you’re in Kenya, you can feed bushbabies (also known as Galagos) for FREE at Stilts Backpackers . Feedings take place every evening at 7 pm and as cute as the babies are, you’re not allowed to touch them.

Total Price: Free!

There are loads of places in Watamu and Diani Beach that rent out SUP boards and kayaks. You can expect to pay around R160 ($11) for an hour, or you can sign for a one hour lesson that will cost R400 ($29).

Total Price: R160 / $11

Crab Shack is one of the best restaurants in Watamu. The restaurant is famous for its population of giant spiders that spin beautiful golden webs all over the property.

It’s not the kind of place you’ll want to bring your arachnophobia friend.

Set on the banks of the Mida Creek, Crab Shack is a popular spot for sunset. You’ll have an interrupted view to watch the day end in one of the most picturesque destinations in Kenya.

If you want to come here for dinner, you’ll need to phone ahead to make a reservation for 6:30 pm. If your name is not on the list, you’ll be charged an entrance fee, and you’ll get a shitty non-sunset facing table.

While the restaurant does specialise in seafood, the menu does have vegan and vegetarian-friendly options! Plus, the bar serves up one of the best Dawa cocktails I had in Kenya!

Total Price: R 80 ($5) +

Visiting the Masai Mara on a budget is possible! And by that I mean, you’ll pay slightly less out of your ass than usual, but your wallet will still feel a bit of a sting.

Mara Explorers Camp offers some of the best prices for travellers wanting to go on a budget safari in Kenya’s Masai Mara.

You’ll be staying outside of the park, which already brings down the cost by a whole lot. If you book accommodation inside the park, you’ll have to pay $80 for each day you’re in the park on top of your safari.

Here are the prices for a two-night-three-day budget safari in Masai Mara with Mara Explorers Camp:

• Price based on 1 adult USD 1590
• Price based on 2 adults USD 960pp
• Price based on 3 adults USD 750pp
• Price based on 4 adults USD 650pp
• Price based on 5 adults USD 590pp
• Price based on 6 adults USD 540pp

The price includes pick up and drop off in Nairobi and all your Masai Mara entrance fees.

Now would be a good time to start making friends. So you can slowly brainwash them into coming with you and avoid paying that painful single supplement fee.

**Mwahahahahahaha**

Do you have any tips for travelling Kenya on a budget? Anything that I missed that you think budget-travellers need to know? Hit ya gurl up in the comments!

Psst…Want more Kenya travel inspiration? Check out my other posts below:

• Travel to Kenya: 15 Useful Things To Know Before You Go
• 7 Epic Things to Do in Diani Beach, Kenya
• A Digital Nomad’s Guide to Living in Nairobi
• The Best Restaurants in Nairobi for Vegans
• 50+ Genius Ways To Save Money for Travel

?If you like it, then you should put a pin on it ?

About Lauren Melnick

Lauren Melnick is the founder of Wanderlust Movement, Wander to Here and is a South Africa travel blogger. She's been travelling the world as a full-time freelance writer since 2016 and has visited over 40 countries.

When she isn't typing up a storm, you can find her conquering overnight hikes around the Western Cape, rock climbing, and hosting sold out group travel trips around South Africa, Namibia and Morocco.

Reader Interactions

April 20, 2019 at 11:22 am

I’ve been dreaming of traveling to Kenya for years, and this is such a good guide for how to do it on a budget! Thanks for all the tips — I’ve pinned it for later. And also, your pictures are stunning!

April 20, 2019 at 2:24 pm

This is very helpful, as I will be heading to Kenya in July 2020. Good to know things can be done on budget there. I splurged on one night at Giraffe Manor so will have to tighten a budget a bit for the rest of the trip 🙂 Thanks for putting this together.

April 20, 2019 at 2:36 pm

I’ve pinned this to my bucket list board! I don’t have any plans to visit Kenya in the immediate future, but it WILL happen someday. Thanks for such a thorough post on budget friendly travel in Kenya!

April 20, 2019 at 6:16 pm

Really appreciate the budget breakdown! That image with the buffalo? herd is just wow! Now I need to find 5 friends who want to do Masai Mara with me…

April 20, 2019 at 6:43 pm

Love this! I am dying to see some more African countries and Kenya is very high up on my wishlist!!

November 26, 2020 at 3:13 pm

This is super helpful! Thank you for posting. Do you know anyone traveling to Kenya this december? I would love to split costs with someone like your post suggests!

November 26, 2020 at 3:32 pm

Unfortunately, I don’t. I’m also not sure what’s happening with Kenya’s borders at the moment.

March 9, 2022 at 11:48 pm

I’m looking to going to Kenya for one week and that entire time I have a hotel in Nairobi. However, I would love to go on a safari tour in Maasai maa, and go to Lake Naivasha and Dani Beach as well, but my question is how do I go about getting around? Is it a good item to stay in one place or should I stay as I move along?

March 14, 2022 at 2:02 pm

Hey Kelly, getting around really depends on your budget. You could fly in, go with a private tour company, hire a car etc. Diani Beach does have local taxis and tuk-tuks you can use for short trips around town. Nairobi has Uber. You can base yourself in one place or move around. It depends on your travelling style. If you feel more grounded having a home base you can totally do that. I’d just look at the costs and see what is the most practical option.

January 7, 2023 at 8:49 pm

I’m about 99% sure that Mara Explorers has changed its name. I kept reading about it and saw in a comment that it’s not called that anymore. Unfortunately I don’t recall the new name. I I think it’s something in Swalhil. Thanks for the information as we are headed for 3 weeks and a bit shocked by the prices 😳!

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

7 Days Kenya mid range Joining Safari

Good day. We would like to express gratitude the SCS Company, represented by John and Simon, for a fantastically prepared and conducted nine-days safari in August 2021 on Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, Amboseli, Tsavo West, Tsavo East National parks! The guys are really professionals in their field! Simon is an excellent guide and a professional driver! He is very friendly, polite and punctual. He knows national parks perfectly well and masterfully finds and notices wild animals. We are also very grateful for the stories and providing information about animals and birds, as well as about the country and Africa as a whole! It was very nice to explore the parks and watch the wild world with you! We saw all the animals from the “Big five” and not only, many stunning bird species, indescribable views and landscapes of African nature, fantastic sunsets and sunrises, stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

• Great Migration

Budget Luxury Masai Mara Safari in Kenya (in A Private JEEP with A FREE NIGHT at Nairobi Hotel)

Don't hesitate, don't doubt. It's amazing.

6 Days Kenya Budget Small Group 4x4 Jeep Safari

This was a great tour! Very knowledgable expert guides and a great way of experiencing Kenya’s beautiful nature & wildlife. The participants of the tour were all very nice people which made the journey fun and unforgettable! Accommodation is basic.

3 Days, 2 Nights Masai Mara Group Joining Safari From Nairobi with Complimentary Airport Pickup.

The main safari was very good we got to see 3 out of the big 5 along with other wild animals. In regards to accommodate the staff where very friendly and attended to our need but accommodate was bear minimal and cleanliness was sufficient for that I give a good otherwise it will have been more.

10 Day Kenya Safari Adventure and Relaxing Mombasa Beach Vacation

10 Day Kenyan Safari Adventure and Tranquil Mombasa Beach Getaway

8 Days Untamed Africa Safari Expedition

7 Days Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Amboseli budget Safari

Our tour to Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Amboseli was quite awesome and we really enjoyed it. The tour guides were exemplary professionals who did their job diligently and that made us really love to pay another visit there. We were guided in all places we visited and I would recommend other travellers to visit these places and have their outstanding experience on their tour. The experience was really good. We really loved it.

• €99 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

7 Days Amazing Safari To Masai Mara Nakuru Naivasha And Samburu Parks with a complimentary airport pick up with first night accommodation at After 40 hotel in Nairobi.

First two nights in eco lodge was a bit basic the tour guide Robert was excellent. We saw the big five in one day in masie Mara Outstanding! The river trip to lake navasha was great. Samuel was excellent. Saw hippos eagles etc Best hotel was sambura simba lodge was beyond expectations. Only down side was electricity was only available certain times of the day Great holiday and met some great people I. Our three groups as we went for seven days and most did four or three days Peter was one of our guides and was not very accommodating as others to stop for photos and hard on luggage when packing jeep

7 Days Kenya Budget Standard Camps & Lodge Safari

I had a great tour with my friends. The services were absolutely excellent. Guide was very professional and accommodations were nice too. We really enjoyed every part of the tour days. Thanks

Budget Tours & Trips to Kenya Reviews

Everything was Amazing

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

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Kenya Budget Safari Tours

Few countries are as well-suited to the budget safari as Kenya. The country’s safari industry highlights its budget safaris and takes advantage of ideal expedition conditions. A seemingly endless array of possibilities is created by cheap accommodation and low-cost transport options, such as the pop-top safari minivan. Kenya is, in many ways, the home of the East African safari, and there are few finer places to plan your trip than here. A string of iconic national parks and reserves provide the venues for excellent wildlife viewing, including the Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo East, Tsavo West, Lake Nakuru and Samburu.

7-Day Masai Mara Lake Nakuru Amboseli Kenya Budget Tour

$739 to $1,045 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 7 people per vehicle) Budget Tented Camp & Hotel

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

Bienvenido Kenya Tours and Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.3 /5  –  76 Reviews

3-Day Masai Mara Private Budget Jeep Safari

$660 to $935 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Budget Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Nairobi (End)

Hyrax Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.9 /5  –  252 Reviews

7-Day Kenya Adventure Safari

$1,032 to $1,307 pp (USD)

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

Super Eagles Travel and Tours   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.8 /5  –  159 Reviews

3-Day Safari Van Masai Mara Group Joining

$352 to $554 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Budget Tented Camp

Axis Africa Expedition & Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.9 /5  –  1089 Reviews

5-Day Masai Mara and Great Lakes Group Sharing Safari

$721 to $960 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Budget Tented Camp & Hotel

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

Jungleroam Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  13 Reviews

3-Day Great Masai Mara Group Sharing Budget Safari

$385 to $605 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 7 people per vehicle) Budget Tented Camp

Across Horizon Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  8 Reviews

7-Day Masai Mara, Nakuru & Amboseli Kenya Budget Safari

$879 to $1,320 pp (USD)

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

Let's Venture Africa Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  25 Reviews

4-Day Masai Mara National Reserve Memorable Safari

$616 to $913 pp (USD)

Javiva Adventures   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  41 Reviews

3-Day Amazing Masai Mara Group Joining Safari (Jeep)

$391 to $605 pp (USD)

Cover Kenia Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  14 Reviews

9-Day Kenya Scenic and Wildlife Budget Safari Adventure

$2,640 to $3,520 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Budget Hotel & Tented Bush Camp

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

Nature Insight safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

7-Day Kenya Magnificent Budget Tour

$2,310 to $2,530 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Budget Tented Camp & Hotel

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Amboseli NP, Lake Nakuru NP, Great Rift Valley, Masai Mara NR, Giraffe Centre (Nairobi) , Nairobi (End)

5.0 /5  –  122 Reviews

6-Day Budget Safari in a Minivan

$1,205 to $1,859 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Budget Lodge & Tented Camp

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

Kameraz of Afrika   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.8 /5  –  98 Reviews

5-Day Kenya Group Joining Safari

$1,425 to $1,460 pp (USD)

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

Morning Star Tours & Travel   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.9 /5  –  165 Reviews

3-Day Masai Mara National Reserve - Budget Tour

$1,000 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Budget Tented Bush Camp

Gosheni Safaris Africa   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.9 /5  –  418 Reviews

3-Day Masai Mara Reserve Budget Safari

$792 pp (USD)

Ways Of Africa Travel   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  65 Reviews

4-Day Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara Budget Game Safari

$1,109 to $1,472 pp (USD)

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

Kevic Tours and Travel   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5-Day Group Safari from Masai Mara NP-Lake Naivasha

$1,706 to $2,272 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 7 people per vehicle) Budget Tented Camp & Resort

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

Jastro Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.9 /5  –  26 Reviews

4-Day Masai Mara Low Season Special Offer

$770 to $1,067 pp (USD)

Safari Line Defender   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.8 /5  –  67 Reviews

7-Day Masai Mara – Lake Nakuru - Lake Naivasha– Amboseli

$1,150 to $1,375 pp (USD)

Tropical Wild Expeditions   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  5 Reviews

7-Day Best of Kenya Wildlife Budget Safari Tour 2024

$869 to $1,089 pp (USD)

Baboon Budget Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  195 Reviews

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6 Questions About Kenya Budget Safaris

Answered by

Anthony ham.

Why should I choose Kenya for a budget safari?

“Nairobi’s role as a hub for African budget travel has given Kenya a long and reliable tradition of budget safaris. Nairobi is one of the cheapest African destinations when it comes to both international air travel and budget accommodation. Building on this foundation, the Kenyan tourism industry has experience in taking budget travelers into the heart of some of Africa’s premier wildlife areas. Choosing a budget safari in Kenya will not limit your options to view the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo) or other African animals. While per-day national park fees are expensive, budget operators are adept at ensuring costs are kept to a minimum. Budget accommodation is almost always possible within or just beyond park boundaries.”

What is included in a budget Kenya trip?

“There is a range of possibilities. All-inclusive safaris should include all accommodation, three meals a day, transport and game drives. Other safari operators may build in more flexibility – breakfast and dinner may be included but not lunches. If your safari includes a camping component, you might be expected to help with the setting up of camp, the preparation of meals and cleaning up afterwards. But the biggest variable is the standard of the accommodation. There is everything from simple two-person tents to basic rooms in lodges or large safari-style tents in tented camps. Clearly the more you pay, the higher the levels of comfort. Exactly what is included is a question that you should always ask any operator when planning your safari. Don’t necessarily go for the cheapest option. Extras added later to your overall costs may cancel out the appeal of a low (but perhaps misleading) upfront price.”

How do I avoid the crowds in the parks?

“You can avoid the worst of these crowds if you’re flexible with dates. Kenya is one of the busiest safari destinations in Africa, so expect to share safari trails with plenty of other travelers. The busiest times are usually around Christmas, Easter and July and August, when international travelers choose to spend their holiday time in Kenya. The migration of wildebeest and zebra between the Serengeti and the Masai Mara is surely one of the greatest spectacles on the African calendar. However, the sheer number of travelers who visit at this time can spoil the experience for many. It’s also the most expensive time to visit and a cheap Kenya safari at this time is more difficult to find. The only way to increase your chances of finding a cheap safari during this period is to take your time looking at all of the available options. Last-minute deals are sometimes possible but waiting for one to appear can be a risk. Wildlife is abundant in most parks year-round, and if you’d prefer a thrilling encounter without waiting in queues of safari vehicles, you may choose to avoid the migration. Predicting when the migration occurs is an inexact science. The herds usually cross into the Masai Mara from the Serengeti from July to August and remain in Kenya until November when they return to Tanzania. But any of these events can happen earlier, later or not at all. That being the case, May and June, or September and October can be ideal to avoid the crowds.”

Can you describe a typical day on a Kenya budget safari?

“A typical day on a Kenya budget safari revolves around wildlife viewing and early morning and late-afternoon game drives, which are a near-constant of life on any budget safari. These are the times when wildlife is most active and easiest to see. If your budget safari has you staying in a simple tented camp or budget lodge, your time in between wildlife viewing and meals will largely be your own. You can either arrange excursions such as village visits or have some downtime to relax. One of the ways that operators keep costs down is by reducing the number of staff who accompany you on safari. What this means in a practical sense is that you’re expected to play a role in keeping camp life running. On a camping budget safari, you’ll participate in setting up camp, packing up each campsite and generally contributing to the smooth running of camp. This may mean helping out with the preparation of meals, and then cleaning up afterwards, as well as putting up and dismantling tents. On a camping safari, if you’re moving on to the next campsite, you’ll return to camp after the morning game drive, prepare breakfast, clean up, pack up camp, and then set off to the new location, usually with some wildlife viewing en route. Lunch is often a relatively quick affair, sometimes in the form of a picnic at a well-chosen spot along the way. On arrival at the new camp, you’ll join the communal effort to set everything up. After dinner in the evening, expect to spend time around the campfire.”

What type of accommodation can I expect?

“Most budget safari packages in Kenya offer a varied range of accommodation options, perhaps more so than any other major safari destination. At the cheaper end of the scale, simple canvas tents of the two-person variety provide you with overnight shelter. These will usually travel with you from one campground to the next. Also cheap are the budget lodges, usually offering a basic bed in a shared room. These are at their best out on the fringes of the major national parks. In the south, particularly around the Masai Mara and Amboseli, homestays in Maasai compounds are an atmospheric and rewarding option. More comfortable and roomy safari tents or simple lodges of varying levels of comfort are all also possible, although they do cost more.”

How much will this safari cost?

“As a starting point, count on per-person per-day prices that begin at US$110. This figure is usually based on a twin-share package, and solo travelers can expect prices to begin closer to US$140 to US$165 per day. Finding the right balance between a small group size and reasonable levels of comfort with a low price is the key to planning a budget safari. Prices vary greatly from one safari to the next, costs depend upon a whole range of variables, and the range of tours is extensive. The per-person rate can vary according to group size, accommodation standards, the amount of travel required between parks and so on.”

Kenya Reviews

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

A Safari Behemoth

In some ways, Kenya rates as the best country for safaris in Africa. That is a contentious statement and many would argue that Tanzania should be given that title. Whichever way you go, Kenya is undeniably a destination which will fulfill...

Full Review

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

From game-packed hotspots to little known wilderness

Kenya’s stunning landscapes include rainforest, beaches, deserts and mountains, but it’s the first class wildlife watching that keeps so many visitors flocking back. Not only is it one of the best places in Africa to see the Big Five,...

Amazing experience

We visited Amboseli, Lake Naivasha and Masai Mara. Our safari company was Unscripted Safaris who were very helpful and professional throughout. A special mention for our guide/driver Daniel who was exceptional - very knowledgeable and went...

Excellent Safari Experince

I booked a trip with Leisure Escape Safari. They did an excellent job. The trip to Kenya was very good. Hospitable people. I visited four national parks. I started in Nairobi and first visited Amboseli, then Naivasha Lake, Nakuru Lake and...

It was simply beautiful

We really enjoyed the tour. The vastness of the parks is impressive. There is something to discover everywhere. The landscape alone is fantastic. Watching the animals makes it even more exciting. Our driver Maromaro was very friendly and...

Great sights on the Mara

I had a great stay in Masaai Mara. It was my second time and there are so many incredible sights. We got very close to a group of elephants and saw an interesting encounter with a pack of hyenas following a big cheetah. I really enjoyed it!...

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Backpacking Kenya: The ULTIMATE budget Kenya travel guide

  Backpacking Kenya: Top experiences

• Watching the wildebeest migration in the Maasai Mara — the most iconic safari destination in Africa
• Relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Lamu, followed by a tour of the ancient Swahili town
• Witnessing a heartwarming conservation success story — and baby elephants — at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi
• Shopping and chatting with the salespeople from Kenya’s huge diversity of cultures at the local markets
• Riding a bicycle through the landscape that inspired The Lion King in Hell’s Gate National Park

Jump to the list of posts from Kenya , or read on for my comprehensive Kenya travel guide.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you decide to purchase through these links, I receive a percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you.

Kenya itinerary ideas

The highlight of any trip to Kenya is undoubtedly a safari in one of the country’s national parks. In fact, many travelers spend their entire Kenya holiday bouncing between parks to see a diversity of wildlife and landscapes.

But the Big 5 are only part of Kenya’s appeal. You won’t want to miss out on the gorgeous beaches and ancient cultures along the Swahili Coast, or the vibrant capital Nairobi, or the Afro-Alpine terrain on the slopes of Mount Kenya. Adventurous travelers may even want to travel north into the vast desert that borders Ethiopia .

The ideal short-stay Kenya itinerary is at least two weeks. Start off with a couple days in Nairobi to recover from jetlag and see the baby elephants at the  David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust . From here, you can book a day tour or a DIY-overnight to Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate National Park to cycle alongside zebra and buffalo.

Next, head out for a three-day, two-night safari in the Maasai Mara! The best trips involve staying in the park, but if you’re on a tight budget, you can use public transport to get to the amazing Mara Explorers Camp and organize game drives and cultural visits from there. Your safari days will start with before-sunrise wake-up calls, game drives at dawn, long afternoon siestas, and evenings back in the car for more game drives.

After doubling back to Nairobi, you have a couple of options. You could make the five-day trek up Mount Kenya. It’s much cheaper than Kilimanjaro, far less crowded, and widely referred to as more scenic.

Alternatively, take the overnight train to Mombasa and spend a week bouncing up the Kenyan coast. Popular stops include Diani, Kilifi, Watumu, and Malindi. Then hop on a short flight to the legendary  Lamu Archipelago , where you can spend the remainder of your trip backpacking Kenya wandering abandoned Swahili ruins, lazing on totally empty beaches, grilling seafood on board a dhow, and exploring the ancient city.

Kenya weather and when to visit Kenya

Look at Kenya’s equatorial location on a map and you’d assume it’s hot and humid year-round. But in reality, like much of East Africa , most of Kenya is at a high enough elevation to keep the weather nearly perfect year-round.

If your trip to Kenya centers around Nairobi, the Maasai Mara, and the Rift Valley, expect daytime temperatures in the low 80’s (Fahrenheit). Evenings drop into the 50’s — you’ll want a fleece.

Trekkers summitting Mount Kenya need to be prepared for extremely cold conditions. Pack or rent a down jacket and four-season sleeping bag — you may even encounter snow near the peak!

On the other hand, if you’re traveling to the coast or the northern desert, you can expect extreme heat and humidity. Mombasa is infamously swampy, and air conditioning is extremely rare in these areas.

Rainfall should be the biggest factor you consider when deciding when to go on a Kenya tour. Kenya has two wet seasons and two dry seasons. Almost everyone will want to visit during a dry season — you have a much better chance of seeing wildlife, and the coast is far more pleasant.

Dry season in Kenya runs from January-February and from June-October. You very well may still experience afternoon rainstorms during this time — but they only come a few times a week and aren’t overly disruptive. Time your trip for July or August for the best chance of seeing the wildebeest migration in the Maasai Mara. The only downside to traveling in dry season is prices are high and crowds are larger.

The rest of the year is wet season, when severe storms and rain pass through almost every day. The storms are typically short, but they’re intense enough to wash out roads and disrupt travel. Additionally, the high volume of water means animals in the bush have no trouble finding places to drink — so they stay hidden in the greener thicket and don’t venture out to be easily visible. The only advantage to backpacking Kenya in wet season is costs are lower.

Language in Kenya

Kenya is a multilingual country — due to the diverse tribal cultures, at least 68 languages are recognized. Most are derived from Bantu languages, similar to the rest of East Africa.

The main language locals use to communicate across tribal boundaries (and in cities) is Swahili. This is also the dominant local language in coastal regions. It’s quite simple to learn a few words (in fact, you probably already know ‘jambo’ and ‘asante sana’). Locals very much appreciate any small effort you make to speak Swahili with them. You can now take basic Swahli lessons through Duolingo .

Can’t express yourself in Swahili? No worries! English is the main colonial language in Kenya, and most Kenyans learn it in grade school. You can usually get by in English unless you travel independently to very remote areas. Due to education disparities, men are more likely to speak English than women. Almost everyone in the tourism sector speaks English.

Budget for Backpacking Kenya

 Many first-time Africa travelers experience sticker shock when they arrive on the continent. While the day-to-day cost of living here is very low, any and all activities are quite expensive, especially compared to much of Asia.

Still, it is possible to backpack Kenya on a budget of around $50 USD a day. This would cover one big-ticket activity (like a safari), while most of your trip would involve hanging out at beaches or organizing activities independently. You’d eat mostly street food and camp in your own tent on this budget.

A more realistic Kenya travel budget is around $100 a day. This would allow you to stay in hostels, combine a few activities or go on a longer safari, and eat in local restaurants and cafes.

At the top end, the sky is the limit. You could stay in boutique bush camps, hire a private driver for your entire time in the country, and take a hot air balloon ride over the Maasai Mara . But this would run you upwards of $1,000 a day — you wouldn’t really be backpacking Kenya at that point!

Sample Costs

Private room in a hostel or simple guesthouse: From 2000 shillings/night

Street-stall meal of nyama choma: 500 shillings

Cup of good local coffee: 200 shillings

Museum or historical site admission: 500 shillings

Bus ticket from Nairobi to Mombasa: 1,600 shillings

Taxi from Kenyatta Airport to central Nairobi: 3,000 shillings

Three-day safari in the Maasai Mara: from $400 USD

Kenya Visa Requirements

Nearly everyone needs a visa for Kenya travel. Luckily, these are easy to get online and on arrival.

Most visitors to Kenya require a single-entry, 90-day tourist visa ($50). You can get this on arrival at any international airport or at the borders with Uganda and Tanzania. You cannot get them at the border with Ethiopia.

If you prefer to arrange your visa in advance, you can apply for an e-visa . The turnaround time is about 48 hours. The process is straightforward — print your confirmation and show it to border authorities on arrival.

If you plan to visit Uganda and Rwanda as part of a larger East Africa backpacking route, it’s cheaper and easier to buy an East Africa Tourist Visa. The EAT visa covers all three countries, with limitless border crossings between them, for 90 days. It costs $100 (so the same price as visiting Kenya and Uganda separately, and cheaper if you want to visit Rwanda too). You must apply in the first country in the region that you’ll arrive in. You can get this visa on arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or arrange it at a consulate from home.

A word of warning: While both single-entry and EAT Kenya visas are theoretically available at land border crossings, you’re better off arranging them in advance. This goes double if you plan to use a low-traffic (or low-tourist-traffic) crossing. Many of the border posts in the region are tiny, underresourced, and staffed by officials who are unfamiliar with the laws. When I traveled from Uganda to Kenya by bus there was no option to get a visa on arrival (I had a pre-arranged EAT visa).

Accommodation in Kenya

Hotels in Kenya run the full spectrum — grubby urban concrete blocks to spectacular luxury bush camping. If you’re backpacking Kenya on a budget, you’ll probably use a lot more of the former.

The cheapest accommodation in Kenya is your own tent, pitched at community campsites around the country. These campsites can be as cheap as 400 shillings, and even in popular national parks, they can be under 1,000 shillings. There’s usually an on-site restaurant so you don’t have to worry about carrying your own food.

 Next up in terms of price and luxury is “lazy camping” — where you rent out a tent from the campsite you’re staying at. This is much more convenient than self-camping because you don’t have to carry all your gear. A lazy camping site runs about 1,000-1,500 shillings.

Big cities and areas popular with travelers have typical backpacker hostels, known locally simply as “backpackers.” Two of the most famous are Milimani Backpackers in Nairobi and Mara Explorers just outside the gates of the Maasai Mara. You can usually choose from a range of dorm rooms, shared-bath rooms, and private rooms with a bathroom inside, each priced accordingly. It’s pretty uncommon to find breakfast included. Dorms cost about 1,200 shillings a night, and a private room in a hostel costs upwards of 2,000 shillings.

Hostels and campsites are great for backpacking Kenya because they have a really social vibe. But if you don’t want to camp, it can be hard to find these traveler-focused options — they only exist in very touristic places. And if you want to save money you’re better off choosing local hotels anyway.

Local hotels usually have a (cold-water) indoor bathroom, four walls, a hard bed, and a lock on the door, but little else. Still, they’re safe, cheap and cheerful — you’ll also likely meet some colorful locals on their patios. They start at around 1,000 shillings a night for a room. Many towns in Kenya have a particular hotel where backpackers congregate — the Backpacking Africa Facebook group can help you identify them.

If money is no object, you can of course find more luxurious places to stay. Plan to spend around $50 a night for a mid-range bush camp, but these can easily top $1,000 a night the more luxurious you get. Camps inside national parks will always be dramatically more expensive than those just outside the park gates.

Food in Kenya

I’m going to be honest — no one plans a trip to Kenya for the food. Like most of the region, Kenyans’ primary focus with food is utilitarian. If it has calories and nutrients, no one seems too bothered by flavor.

That’s not to say you can’t eat well — you absolutely can. I enjoyed nearly every meal I had in Kenya. But you’ll mostly have to go to international restaurants and cafes.

The most popular food in Kenya is called nyama choma — grilled meat.usually goat. It’s reasonably tasty and cheap as chips — 500 shillings will get you a plate of it with a couple sides.  Carnivore in Nairobi   is the iconic place to try it, but you can save money by ordering at any streetside stall.

Nearly every meal in Kenya comes with ugali, a corn/millet/grain-based porridge. It’s boiled until fairly solid, such that you can pick it up with your hands and dip it in the accompanying sauces. It’s inoffensive — the texture is weird but it has little flavor. Most travelers try it only a couple times before steering clear. You can usually get rice as an alternative.

Spinach is the most common vegetable, but you may find other vegetables or beans as a side depending on time of year. Grilled corn with chili and lime is another popular snack.

Swahili food on the coast is an entirely different story. Here, the mix of Indian, Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern cultures has led to a truly exciting cuisine. Fresh seafood is the highlight, but coconut rice, coconut beans, plantains in tomato sauce, and tropical fruits round out your meal. Swahili curries are also worth a try. Swahili food tends to be spicy.

Cafe culture has exploded in Nairobi, Kisumu, and other large inland towns. You can always find a place to get a tasty sandwich or fresh pastry for breakfast. Java House is the biggest chain, and a haven for vegetarians, but be sure to try some of the local places as well.

Unfortunately, due to safety issues that prevent people from walking anywhere after dark in much of urban Kenya, most travelers end up eating dinner at their hotels and camps. The upside is the food is often better than what you’d find at restaurants. Most camps cater to vegetarians as long as they know in advance. More luxurious places will offer three-course meals (soup, main, dessert), and it’s often included with your room rate.

Drinks in Kenya

Kenya is a large producer of coffee and tea. And luckily for backpackers, some of the best beans stay local. If you’re in a city or town you’ll always be able to find at least one great coffee shop.

In the bush, most coffee is of the instant variety. Even luxury tented camps tend to serve mediocre coffee — but when you’re sipping it while watching a lion family play in the Maasai Mara, you won’t mind.

Along the conservative Muslim Swahili coast, women alone may not feel super comfortable in male-dominated coffee shops. This is mostly an issue in Mombasa and other southern coastal cities. By the time you get as far north as Lamu, it’s a total non-issue.

Another popular beverage in Kenya — especially along the coast — is fresh fruit juice. The tamarind juice is to-die-for. You can also buy fresh young coconuts in tropical areas.

When it comes to alcohol, beer is king, and it’s mostly lagers. You can also find millet beer and corn and millet-based whiskeys. You won’t find much alcohol on the Muslim Swahili coast (Lamu has only a single hotel bar and a single covert local liquor store).

If you venture out into remote villages, you may have the opportunity to try some ~interesting~ beverages — like cow’s blood or fermented milk. If it’s offered to you on a tour, by all means try it. But it’s best to wait for an invitation, as these beverages are usually part of rituals and foreigners ‘ordering’ them is a pretty big overstep.

You should not drink tap water in Kenya. You can buy bottled water everywhere. If you want to cut down on plastic waste, consider bringing a Steripen . This small UV wand purifies water and kills bacteria when you stir it around for 90 seconds. I’ve never gotten sick using a Steripen, but I did cave in Lamu and buy bottled water because the donkey-crap-filled wells grossed me out so much. If you drink water from an unfiltered source that’s cloudy or dirty, use the Steripen for 180 seconds before drinking.

Activities you can do while backpacking Kenya

The one activity everyone who visits Kenya wants to do is go on safari. Luckily, the country has many options for all budgets.

Even if you’re backpacking Kenya on a shoestring budget, you can still get up close to several of Africa’s most iconic species with a bike ride through  Hell’s Gate National Park . The park doesn’t have any predators, but it does have buffalo, giraffe, wildebeest, and many different varieties of antelope.

The Maasai Mara is Kenya’s most popular game park, where the annual wildebeest migration across the Mara River occurs. You can see the park on a three-day, two-night trip from Nairobi.

Other popular parks include Amboseli (famous for the elephants walking in front of Kilimanjaro), Nakuru, Tsvaro East and West, and — right near the airport — Nairobi National Park. All of them offer something a little different, but you can get the general idea by picking one plus the Mara. Be sure to check out my  safari packing list   before you go!

If you’re after more active pursuits, nothing beats the trek up Mount Kenya. Mount Ololokwe in the far north is a cheaper (but much less accessible) option. On either, you’ll likely have the hike to yourself aside from your guides.

The other big draw to Kenya is the beach. Kenya’s coast combines history with relaxation, with plenty of Swahili ruins sites to break up your days sunbathing. Dhow trips are a popular activity, and you can book snorkeling tours, dive trips, and dolphin-watching tours as well.

Many backpackers in Kenya are surprised by how quickly expenses for activities add up. For each of the things on this list, you’ll need a driver, a guide, tips for each of them, admission fees, food, accommodation…it’s a lot. So you may want to add a few days to your itinerary that consist of little more than wandering around villages and seeing local attractions. You can usually find a local to show you around for about $5 for half a day (hotels and campgrounds advertise this as a “village walk”), and you’ll get much more out of the experience that way.

Transportation in Kenya

As far as East Africa goes, Kenyan transportation is really good. The bus service is relatively safe and efficient, the train service is outstanding, and even the matatus are nowhere near as bad as they are in Uganda. A reliable network of domestic flights rounds out your options.

The main way travelers get around Kenya is by bus. Buses are affordable — about $2 per hour — and comfortable. I traveled with the company Mash POA and had a great experience (plus, their office is in a relatively safe part of Nairobi). You can usually get a bus ticket the day you want to travel, but it’s best to book (online, by phone, or in person) a few hours in advance for long trips.

One thing you’ll hear a lot about overlanding Africa is to never travel after dark. But in Kenya, it’s actually pretty okay to take the night buses. They don’t pass through major wilderness areas and the lack of traffic on the roads means you’re less likely to be in a blind-overtaking situation.

If you’re traveling among smaller cities — like Naivasha-Nairobi, or Mombasa-Diani Beach

0– you’ll probably end up on an occasional matatu in Kenya. These are fairly organized, with fixed (and posted) fares. Conductors cap it at a relatively sane number of passengers compared to neighboring countries, and drivers mostly stay under 100 km/hour. Still, matatus are not as safe as buses and you should avoid them when possible. They don’t operate on fixed schedules — they leave when full.

For travel between Nairobi and the coast, easily the best option is the train between the capital and Mombasa . It takes under 5 hours and second-class seats cost just 900 shillings. Book in person at any Kenya Railways office.

If you’re in a hurry or on a bigger budget, flying is a great way to cover the enormous distances in Kenya. It’s the only option to reach Lamu, and it’s convenient for some of the northern mainland coastal towns as well.  Silverstone   is the most affordable airline, but travelers hopping between parks or on a schedule that doesn’t have space for delays will be better off using  Safarilink .

If you’re visiting national parks, you will usually have to book an organized tour or hire a private driver. Public transport may reach the outer park gates, but won’t work for a game drive. This is the main thing that drives up safari costs. Budget upwards of $100 a day. The only alternative is to rent your own vehicle, but with terrible roads and reckless driving, it isn’t worth the hassle.

Safety When Backpacking Kenya

Kenya doesn’t have the best safety reputation in the world. Nairobi in particular is infamous for its robberies and terrorism threats, and Somali pirates have kidnapped tourists in coastal towns in years past. But the reality is most of these risks are overblown, and you can easily avoid them with a bit of caution.

Street crime

The key thing to remember on your Kenya backpacking trip is to never go out on foot after dark. I don’t mean “at night” — I mean literally when the sun sets. Streets that are safe during the day turn into deserted, crime-ridden danger zones at night. You can stay safe by taking taxis/Ubers or eating at your hotel. This holds true in both cities and rural areas. For example, it is not safe to walk along the lakeshore at Lake Naivasha after dark.

Mombasa and Nairobi have the worst crime in the country. In these cities you’re better off locking valuables in your hotel while exploring at all times of day, and bringing only the cash you need for the day with you. Know your neighborhoods (for example Karen in Nairobi is very safe) and bring enough money to hop in a cab in an emergency.

“ Slum tourism ” has taken off in some of Kenya’s larger cities. I have serious questions about the ethics of visiting neighborhoods like Kibara, but on a practical level, if you decide you are comfortable with it, you absolutely must take a guide.

Yes, Kenya has experienced terrorist attacks, most famously at the  Westgate Mall in 2013. Yes, Kenya’s politics are regionally controversial, and the Somali community in Kenya is not exactly thrilled with many of the government’s actions.

But the odds of you, as a tourist, getting caught up in a terrorist attack in Kenya are so low that it’s not even worth worrying about. Follow all the typical safety precautions and you’ll be fine. This includes staying out of neighborhoods known for higher levels of terrorist threats (your biggest risk is getting caught in the crossfire when someone tries to take down a political target).

Currently, Mombasa is a bit on edge after a string of attacks last year . It’s nothing to be paranoid about, but I’d recommend checking your government’s travel advice before you leave home.

Wildlife and nature

Realistically, one of the biggest risks you’ll face in Kenya isn’t from crime. It’s from Africa’s most dangerous animal — the mighty mosquito. If you don’t take sensible precautions, you put yourself at risk of getting malaria in Kenya.

Everyone must make their own decisions about the pros and cons of taking antimalarials (link is to the CDC). For me, it’s a no-brainer — malaria is a serious disease and a pill covered by insurance with a small risk of minor side effects is well worth the protection it offers. There is little scientific evidence that homeopathic methods such as special teas work. Your risk is highest during wet season, but travelers can get sick year-round. I always take Malerone when traveling in malarial regions in Africa.

Compared to mosquitoes, the rest of the big wildlife in Kenya poses basically no risk to travelers. Don’t be an idiot — keep your distance from all wildlife, store your food safely when camping , don’t feed the baboons, and don’t ever get out of your car in a game park. If you’re camping, try to avoid middle of the night bathroom trips. If you must leave your tent at night, listen closely for wildlife. Be especially careful around water. Hippos — the most dangerous animal in Africa — may congregate here.

Kenya travel advice for women alone

Contrary to popular belief, East Africa is perhaps the easiest and safest part of the world to travel as a solo female. Kenya is no exception.

Kenyan men are exceptionally friendly, but rarely disrespectful. This is the kind of place where you can go to a beach cafe and play chess with the all-male clientele and no one will even think of you as a potential date, let alone look at or talk to you as if you are.

It’s not universal — Mombasa, in particular, is known for being more unpleasant for solo women. And if you go to a bar alone you’ll definitely raise eyebrows. But on the whole Kenya is one of the most hassle-free destinations I’ve ever traveled to.

In fact, one huge advantage of solo female travel in Kenya is most of the safari touts and scamsters will leave you alone altogether! They mainly target wealthy-looking couples and families.

Bikinis, shorts, and tank tops are totally acceptable on the beach and when you’re on safari. But in towns — especially along the Swahili coast — cover your shoulders and knees.

Ready to get started? Check out the posts from Kenya.

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Carrie is the founder of Trains, Planes and Tuk Tuks. For more than seven years, she's been solo-backpacking around the world to places few other tourists dare to explore -- from Ethiopia to Nicaragua to Jordan and beyond. When she's not on the road, you can find her hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains and eating the world's best barbecue in her home city of Asheville, NC.

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This is absolutely dreamy. I have always wanted to go on Safari in Kenya and assumed it would be very expensive. Great to know that’s not the only option to explore!

My family is from Kenya 🇰🇪 but I haven’t had the opportunity to go on a Safari or visit Kenya yet. Loved this post: it was really informative.

I agree with you about the slum tourism. It was a bit of a thing when I lived in the Philippines. But I would still very much like to visit Kenya!

Love this post, it’s so informative and the photos are great!

This post brings back sooo many happy memories! We were really lucky to have a friend that lived in Kenya for a few years, so when we visited she could give us good advice and make sure we went to the best spots.

I totally agree with you about the food. N yama choma was fun to try, but it was the swahili food near Mombassa that blew me away.

Can I check if you went on this alone? I did Kenya 5 years back but under Intrepid, and I’ve always wanted to return to explore the other parts as well – but I really cannot imagine navigating everything on my own! (I really want to check out Masaai Mara because I missed that the first time round)

I did go alone! I found it quite simple to navigate. The key is to remember that everything is going to take 3x longer than you expect it to. You’ll wait two hours for a matatu to fill up to take you on a 30 minute journey, you’ll ride in buses that break down and are taped back together with duct tape, EVERY interaction requires 10 minutes of casual conversation before you can ask a question or buy something. Once you mentally commit yourself to that pace (and plan an itinerary that allows for it/where delays won’t stress you out), …  Read more »

• Destinations

• Jan 20, 2020

Kenya Budget Travel: 10 tips & tricks

Updated: Jan 15

Do you want to travel around Kenya but you have a tight budget? We were in the same boat when we planned our 10-day journey around this incredibly diverse country. Even though Kenya’s infrastructure and steep park entrance fees make it challenging to travel cheaply, there is a way to overcome a few budget obstacles. This article highlights 10 budget-saving tips and tricks for your trip to Kenya.

Check out our video on Kenya to get a sense of what it's like there!

Kenya Travel Budget

During our 10 day trip through Kenya, we explored different regions and National Parks with a safari jeep. We spent approximately US$1,000, excluding our flight tickets to Kenya. This means that we had a budget of US$100 per day , which covered our accommodation, entrance fees for tourist attractions and parks, food and drinks, and jeep rental with the driver. This budget still allowed us to live the adventure we desired with the right comfort. Given that an organized 10-day tour around Kenya easily exceeds US$4,000, we managed well!

Kenya Price guidelines

Approx. exchange rate: US$1 = 100 Kenyan Shilling (KES)

Safaris, Beaches, Tribes, and Other Attractions

Tip 1: plan your itinerary with diversity in mind.

In spite of safaris usually being the main draw for travelers to explore Kenya, there is much more to discover. As stated before, Kenya is a diverse country which is reflected in its culture, people, wildlife, and landscapes. In addition to the national parks, Kenya offers splendid white-sand beaches, interesting tribes, and traditions, as well as historic sites. The beauty of our trip was the variety of activities we planned. We combined the safaris with beaches, culture, and cities. While safaris are undoubtedly the biggest expense, the beaches, and cities can be explored relatively cheaply. For example, we visited Diani Beach for a few days at the end of our trip to unwind, saving us some budget. We also explored the two biggest cities in Kenya, Nairobi, and Mombasa. Both cities have interesting sights, from local flea markets to historic sites.

Tip 2: Go on a jeep safari with a group

Most of Kenya’s National Parks are controlled by the government and therefore charge a fixed rate. The most popular National Parks and Game Reserves include the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and the Great Rift Valley Lakes. While there is no way to avoid the park entrance fee (only Kenyan residents and citizens are eligible for a discount), you can save A LOT of money by renting the jeep with a larger group . A standard safari jeep typically has 8 seats (7 in the back and one next to the driver). As you pay a fee per day for the jeep including the driver, the more passengers you have, the cheaper it will be for everyone. We paid a total of US$200 for a 7 days jeep rental because we were able to share the cost among 8 people.

Entrance fees to Kenya National Parks (2020)

Maasai Mara National Park - US$80 per day

Amboseli National Park - US$60 per day

Tsavo East National Park - US$ 52 per day

Meru National Park - US$ 52 per day

Nairobi National Park - US$ 42 per day

Tip 3: Negotiate prices

Whenever you see the opportunity to negotiate, we recommend you do so! Bargaining over the price is an important part of the Kenyan culture, so you shouldn’t feel embarrassed. Haggling is especially important when taking a tuk-tuk or buying souvenirs and street food. We also managed to get a discount on our snorkeling excursion to Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park on the Kenyan Coast. We brought the price down from US$120 to US$30 per person (including entrance fee) by arranging our own transportation and excluding the provided lunch and other unnecessities.

Transportation

Tip 4: take local transportation whenever possible.

In towns and cities, you can move around by various means of local transportation: the tuk-tuk, matatu, and Uber. We used the tuk-tuk in Mombasa and smaller towns, while we found Uber more convenient in a big city like Nairobi. The tuk-tuk is a cheap option (if you negotiate well!) and is ideal for short distances. The matatu is probably the cheapest option but requires you to have a good sense of where you are going. Take local transportation whenever possible and don’t let the hotels convince you to take their expensive “taxis”.

Tip 5: Don’t self-drive

While you may think that self-driving is cheaper than booking a jeep safari, we don’t recommend it. Truth is that the drivers in the parks are connected to one another and communicate where to spot the animals. When you are self-driving you are likely to miss the most exciting and rare animal sightings. On top of that, the roads in the parks are challenging with many potholes and sometimes floods. You can easily get stuck if you drive yourself!

Accommodation

Tip 6: book your accommodation outside the national parks.

Many travelers decide to stay within the National Parks during their trip to Kenya. This is a costly decision as you will need to pay multiple park entrance fees (the fee is usually valid for 24 hours only) and stay in a luxury resort. The food, drinks, and other facilities within the resort come at a price as well.

Alternatively, there are many cheaper hotels and eco-camps near the park entrance to choose from. Most neighboring towns or areas have a few low-budget options. For example, when we visited Tsavo East National Park, we stayed in the town of Voi. This town was right next to the park entrance, which is ideal if you want to have an early start.

Tip 7: Stay at hostels, AirBnBs, or low-budget hotels

Although the fancy resorts are mostly promoted, Kenya has a wide variety of other accommodation options. Each town usually has a few low-budget hotels and hostels for less than US$20 a night. Most rooms will come with a fan and a shared bathroom. Check out Hostelworld or Booking.com to find good deals. In addition, in major cities like Nairobi or Mombasa you will also have an attractive selection of AirBnBs . We rented an AirBnB in both Nairobi and Diani Beach, with good value for money.

Food & Drinks

Tip 8: bring your lunch when visiting the national parks.

The National Parks in Kenya don't have many lunch options. Generally, it is only possible to get food and drinks at one of the luxury resorts, which are extremely pricey. Therefore, it is suggested to bring your own packed lunch and snacks into the jeep. Not only will you have more time to spot the animals, but you will also save a lot of money and frustration. We would buy bread, cakes, fruit, and chips. Kenyan Chevda (Tropical Heat flavor), was our favorite and was very cheap. It hit the spot on those long safari days!

Tip 9: Buy local food

If you're on a budget, we recommend not going out for food at luxury restaurants. Although the food is tasty at those restaurants, it is usually a similar price to what you would pay in North America or Europe for the same food. Instead of restaurants, opt-in for local cuisine whenever possible. You will get a much better bang for your buck and will also be able to enjoy pure Kenyan food. Local grocery stores also have cheaper options than restaurants for alcohol, water, and essential bread to get you through your adventures. Bring snacks with you at all times as there are sometimes long stretches of road without any gas stations or stores.

Tip 10: Don’t be afraid of street food

Street food in Kenya is nothing to be scared of! In fact, it's some of the best food in the country if you go to the right places. When walking the streets, stop in and talk to the local vendors to see what they have to offer and for how much. Food is not usually something to barter prices on in Kenya, but the street food is generally very cheap already. You shouldn't have to pay more than US$5 for a full meal on the streets and we found the quality to be very good at the places we tried. Just make sure to always give the booth a once-over before making your purchase. Check if the cooking area is sanitary, the utensils look clean, and there are no bugs in the area. Also, make sure to be careful when eating fruits or vegetables as the water to clean them may have been local water from the river. This water has often not been purified, and thus you may get an upset stomach if you eat those. Instead, opt for cooked meats, rice, and bread when possible. If you are afraid of getting sick, then check out our article with 7 tips on how to stay healthy while traveling .

Are you having a hard time planning your trip to Kenya? Get our Interactive Travel Planner to keep it all organized.  

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10 Tips for Traveling on Budget in Kenya

Picture yourself standing in the middle of the African plains, gazing at a herd of wildebeests and zebras, feeling the sun on your skin as you take in the beauty of the majestic landscape around you. What a sight!

Such experiences could be expensive or achievable only by those with deep pockets, right? WRONG! With a little bit of planning and research, anyone can experience this adventure.

Discover how to travel on a budget in Kenya with these 10 tips. From finding affordable accommodations to exploring local markets, this guide covers you.

Introduction to Kenya

Are you looking for an out-of-this-world trip that won’t break the bank? Head to Kenya, one of the most beautiful countries in Africa! Kenya is a diverse destination for budget travelers, from its fantastic wildlife to its culture and breathtaking landscapes.

Not only is Kenya an affordable place to visit, but it’s also home to some of the world’s best safaris . Whether taking a game drive in the scenic Masai Mara or visiting the South Coast islands of Mombasa, you can experience one of the ultimate African adventures without breaking your bank balance.

However, there are specific tips and tricks to ensure you get the most out of your safari experience in Kenya while sticking to your budget. Read on as we share our top 10 tips for traveling on a budget in Kenya!

Accommodation Options on a Budget

If you want to experience the adventure of a lifetime in Kenya without breaking the bank, plenty of affordable accommodation options are available. From camping and glamping to budget hostels and homestays, you’ll be able to find something that fits your travel style without going over budget.

Here are some of the most popular budget lodging options in Kenya:

• Camping: Camping is a great way to get close to nature while reducing costs. With campsites scattered throughout Kenya’s national parks, you can find a spot within your budget that meets your needs.
• Glamping: Not feeling quite up for the camping vibes? Glamping—or glamorous camping—is a great alternative. Up your camping game by staying in a yurt or teepee with all the comforts of glamping, including electricity, running water and other amenities.
• Hostels: Budget hostels in Kenya offer basic accommodations at an even more basic price. Expect shared rooms, free Wi-Fi, and onsite cafes for your convenience!
• Home Stays: Homestays are another affordable lodging option in Kenya. Many homestays provide meals as part of their services, so you don’t have to worry about cooking while traveling.

Transportation around Kenya – Taking Local Flights, Busses &More

What’s the cheapest way to get around Kenya? Good question! Many transportation options exist, from airports and railways to buses and bikes. Depending on your budget and travel plans, you can opt for domestic flights, express busses, or even the good ol’ trains.

The cheapest option for getting around Kenya is generally by bus. Hundreds of Government-run express busses make regular stops in towns and cities, so you can quickly get on and off as needed. Traveling with a Kenyan-based operator can often save money on fares from international airlines.

If you’re looking for a more comfortable journey while still keeping costs reasonably low, an air safari is another great option. You don’t have to worry about getting lost in translation—small planes will fly you directly to your destination with the help of an expert local pilot.

One final option worth considering is car rental or carpooling. A few major rental companies operate in both cities and rural areas in Kenya, so if there’s a specific destination you want to reach but don’t want to take public transport, then renting a car might be the most convenient option. Carpooling is also becoming increasingly popular as young Kenyans have taken to sharing rides via social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp. So why not sit back and enjoy the scenery with some local company?

Exploring the Masai Mara on a Budget

In Kenya, a safari is one of the most popular and remarkable activities people look forward to. The Masai Mara National Reserve is ideal for an unforgettable safari experience. Here are some tips on exploring the Masai Mara on a budget:

• Opt for a shared tour with other travelers : Instead of private time, communicating with other travelers can reduce your costs significantly. You can find inexpensive tours such as our Masai mara safari and join the group with the lowest budget.
• Look for mid-range hotels instead of luxury ones: Staying in mid-range hotels near or around the reserve can save you money while still offering excellent service and value.
• Find an affordable transport option: You can get around quickly and cheaply in Kenya if you opt for buses and shared taxis over private ones.
• Consider camping in reserve: For an even lower price, camping in the reserve is an excellent option as long as you’re comfortable sleeping under the stars!
• Buy supplies before entering: Bring your snacks and drinks into the reserve to save money on food while you are there.
• Ask your driver about lesser-known spots: Experienced safari guides will be keen to show you where animals come to feed, which could be more cost-effective than visiting more popular locations within the reserve!

Suggested Itineraries for Budget Travelers in Kenya

Do you want to make the most of your visit to Kenya without breaking the bank? With some planning, you can explore the best of what the country offers while still sticking to your budget. Here are some suggested itineraries for budget travelers in Kenya:

Safari Itinerary

If you plan to go on a safari, there are many ways to do it on a budget. Start by choosing a less expensive destination — Masai Mara is known for its rich wildlife, which can be more costly than other parks. You can also save money by staying at campgrounds instead of traditional lodges and going on self-drive safaris. And since safaris usually take three days or more, buying multiple nights upfront will usually get you a better rate.

Beach Itinerary

Diani Beach is an excellent option if you’re looking for some beach time on your trip. You can save money by staying in guesthouses instead of resorts. Public transport, such as matatus (minibusses) along the Kenyan Coast, is much cheaper than taxis or private drivers. Plus, there’s so much to do in Diani – swimming, snorkeling, and exploring local markets – that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.

Mountain Itinerary

For those who want to experience some high-altitude action in Kenya without emptying their wallet, Mt Kenya is an ideal stop. Start with an overnight stay at Nanyuki town before proceeding with transport provided by the Mountaineering Club of Kenya (MCK). You can also save money by bringing packed meals from home or buying food from local vendors outside MCK campsites.

Tips for Staying Safe in Kenya

When you travel to any foreign country, it pays to take some extra precautions. Kenya is undoubtedly no exception. Here are some tips to help you be safe during your stay:

Be smart about where you stay and who you hang out with. If possible, stick to reputable lodgings, and avoid known rougher neighborhoods. If you’re meeting up with friends of friends, research a bit before committing to visit.

Watch Out for Pickpockets

Pickpockets can be found in touristy areas and crowded spaces like markets or busses. Keep your valuables close, wear a money belt if possible, and leave your flashy jewelry at home.

Be Careful When Driving

Driving in another country can sometimes be quite challenging! Ensure you know the local traffic laws and customs, as they may vary from what is typical in your home country. Avoid driving at night if possible, drive defensively, and watch for animals or pedestrians who may unexpectedly cross the road in front of you.

It’s also important to note that police may stop drivers for checking purposes, so always have your documents ready when driving in Kenya!

Sample Costs of a Kenyan Getaway on a Budget

Going on a Kenyan getaway can be incredibly exciting, but knowing the sample costs you might incur during your stay is essential. As with any holiday, there can be various costs depending on multiple factors.

Here are some sample costs you might encounter when traveling to Kenya on a budget:

• Hotel Accommodation: You can expect to pay between KES 3,000 and KES 5,000 ($30 and $50) per night for a private room in a guesthouse or backpacker hostel.
• Transportation Costs: Busses and matatus (minibus taxis) vary in cost depending on the distance you’re traveling but are known to be very affordable. A one-way ticket to Nairobi should cost no more than KES 250 ($2.50).
• Local Food and Drinks: You can get delicious local food for roughly KES 500 ($5) per meal. Drinks such as soda, water and beer are surprisingly cheap, with prices going for around KES 100 ($1) minimum.
• Safari Tours: Safari tours vary significantly in price, so be sure to do your research first. However, some budget options start around $60 per person.

Keep these sample costs in mind when planning your holiday in Kenya—the good news is that it is possible to experience unique journeys without blowing your budget!

How to Find Cheap Safari Deals

Kenya is a popular destination for safari enthusiasts, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some ways to find affordable safari deals in Kenya:

• Plan: Booking your safari in advance can help you secure early bird discounts and other promotional offers.
• Travel during the low season: The low season in Kenya typically runs from April to June and October to December. During this time, you can find cheaper safari deals as tour operators and lodges offer discounts to attract more visitors.
• Compare prices: Research and compare prices from different safari operators and lodges. You can find better deals by shopping around.
• Join a group tour: Group tours can be a cost-effective safari experience. You’ll share the costs of transportation and accommodation with other travelers, which can bring down the overall cost of your trip.
• Consider a budget safari: Budget safaris offer a more affordable alternative to luxury safari experiences. While the accommodations and amenities may be more basic, you can still enjoy an authentic safari experience without breaking the bank.

Following these tips, you can find cheap safari deals in Kenya and enjoy an unforgettable experience without breaking the bank.

In conclusion, visiting Kenya on a budget can be an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime experience. You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy all that Kenya has to offer – with a few tips and tricks and some research, you can find affordable accommodation and ways to see the country’s unique natural beauty on a budget. From Masai Mara to Lake Naivasha, Kenya is a destination gem; you don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy it. Happy travels!

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Home » Africa » Backpacking Kenya Travel Guide (2024)

Backpacking Kenya Travel Guide (2024)

Kenya is a dream destination for many — and it’s not hard to see why. From the unreal wildlife encounters you can get on a safari to its stunning coastline, Kenya is home to some pretty epic bucket list experiences.

And it isn’t exactly new to the backpacking scene, either. East Africa has been a mecca for travelers for years, and Kenya is often considered one of the most stable and friendly countries to visit in the entire region.

Can you go off the beaten path, though? Oh, you sure can — and I’m here to show you how.

Whether you have a couple of weeks or a couple of months, there is much left for the intrepid traveler to explore in Kenya. This guide will help you plan the ultimate East African adventure, giving you all the tools you need to have an epic time backpacking in Kenya.

We’ll be covering the best places to visit, our suggested itineraries, some safety tips, and how to cut down costs. Your trip to Kenya is one step closer!

Why go backpacking in Kenya?

Not much can beat spotting a lion in the savannah of the Maasai Mara or a herd of elephants against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Kenya offers some of the best wildlife spotting opportunities on the continent!

Do you know about the Big Five? It’s what they call the elephant, lion, buffalo, rhino, and leopard. They’re some incredibly magnificent animals, and you’ll get to see them all when visiting Kenya’s National Parks .

But while a safari is undoubtedly a highlight of any trip to Kenya, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to know what else the country has to offer.

Heading east to the Indian Ocean coast, you’ll find long stretches of palm tree-lined beaches with the clearest azure water. Towards the equator, the snow-capped jagged peak of Mount Kenya stands tall over the harsh arid plains. Then you’ve got the bustling metropolitan center of Nairobi!

You’ll soon find that Kenya is probably way more than you had in mind…

Linger long enough, and you’ll come to appreciate the proud and fascinating tribal landscape of Kenya’s population. The Maasai people, the Samburu, Turkana, Swahili, and Kikuyu… these are cultural experiences that are bound to stay with you for life.

With so much to see and do, I’ve prepared a few itinerary options for you to consider when backpacking Kenya. Let’s get this started!

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Kenya

Depending on what’s driving you to visit Kenya, I’d say you should spend anywhere from 10 days up to two months backpacking the country.

Most people opt for a quick safari trip and possibly a few days on the coast, but then again… most people never get to see the real Kenya.

You will, though! Below, I’m providing you with a few sexy itineraries for your Kenya trip. They’re based on my own trips there, but you can easily adjust them to suit your own adventure.

And mark my words: it’s gonna be an epic one.

Backpacking Kenya Itinerary 10 Days

Most people begin their Kenya backpacking journey in Nairobi, the capital. And while it’s had a bad reputation in the past, the city can be a hella vibrant! Save at least one full day to explore the markets and the Kenya Museum Society. You could even visit Nairobi National Park. 

From here, you’ll want to head straight to the Kenya’s number one highlight: Maasai Mara National Reserve. You can easily book a safari through any hostel or hotel — you can even book them online . The package deals are usually more convenient than booking it all separately.

After you’ve spotted the Big Five (hopefully!) in the national reserve, you can head north to Lake Naivasha, the highest freshwater lake in Kenya. It’s a popular place to spot hippos, crocodiles and many bird species.

From there, it’s onwards to Hell’s Gate National Park. It’s a great place to try to walk/bike your way through a more independent safari. And you’ve got affordable accommodation inside the park, too!

Try to allocate at least a couple of days for Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate to really enjoy the area. From there, head back east to Nairobi to wrap up. 

Backpacking Kenya Itinerary 1 Month

If you have up to a month in Kenya, you’re in for a real trip!

Following the above 10-day itinerary, you start moving further east to Mombasa. It’s the second-largest city in Kenya, and worth spending a couple of days in to check out its historical sites. Make sure you see Fort Jesus, Mandhry Mosque and the Spice Market. 

From Mombasa, you can travel north along the coast to some incredibly dreamy destinations. Depending on how fast you move, you can head all the way up to Lamu Island, stopping at Kilifi and Malindi on the way.

You should be warned, though, the Kenyan coastal towns are very enticing, and you’ll find most backpackers staying in the same spot for indefinite amounts of time — the place’s sticky!

On the way back to the start, take a detour to a lodge inside Tsavo West National Park. You can even combine a safari here with Amboseli National Park, and finish your trip with more animal sightings against the towering backdrop of the Kilimanjaro peak.

Backpacking Kenya Itinerary 6 Weeks

More than a month? What more could possibly be left to see in Kenya? Well… the entire northern half of the country! Travelers usually ignore this region completely, but for intrepid backpackers with the time, it can be the country’s ultimate adventure.

Following the one-month itinerary above, your next destination is Mount Kenya — and if you’re keen, you can spend almost a week trekking to the summit. This is one of the best spots in Africa for hiking, but you’ll want to make sure that you do this with a guide and porters.

After the summit experience, continue north by bus through Isiolo and all the way to Marsabit. From here, it’s best to arrange a driver to take you west to Lake Turkana in the wild northwest of Kenya.

You can venture further and try to reach Loiyangalani, an incredible lakeside settlement that0’s home to the Turkana and Samburu people. Take at least a couple of days to enjoy the lake and cultural experience in town.

After that, it’s back to Nairobi.

With the exception of Mount Kenya, northern Kenya is by far the least visited area of the country. You won’t find a lot of infrastructure here, especially when you compare it to the south. However, if you’re after a wild and adventurous journey, this is what you need in your Kenya itinerary.

Places to Visit in Kenya

Kenya is blessed with some incredibly beautiful landscapes, whether that’s the coast, the savannah, or Mount Kenya. And most of the top places to visit in Kenya are relatively near these locations, so it’s truly a nature lovers dream.

The southern half and the coast have been enjoyed by generations of travelers, so they’re a bit easier to navigate. Northern Kenya requires a bit more of a sense of adventure, but if you’re in for the ride… go for it!

Backpacking Nairobi

Nairobi might not have the best reputation, but it’s by far East Africa’s most cosmopolitan city. It is often nicknamed “Nai-robbery” by backpackers, but don’t let that put you away. As long as you protect your belongings and don’t carry any valuables around, you can the city’s beating heart and get a real feel for the country’s promising future. 

It has a number of great central markets where you can pick up arts, crafts, and souvenirs from all around the country. You can pick up some Maasai jewelry, wood carvings, and paintings on your way back home.

You can also head out on a safari within just kilometers of the city center. Nairobi National Park is something of an anomaly as you can literally spot giraffes and elephants against the backdrop of the city’s skyscrapers. It’s relatively small, so you can easily arrange a half or full-day trip.

Here are some of the best things to do in Nairobi:

• Maasai Market: an open-air marketplace in the middle of Nairobi where you can pick up souvenirs and crafts.
• Kenya Museum Society: A museum with exhibitions on East African traditions and history.
• Nairobi National Park: Head out on a safari just a short drive outside of the city. It’s one of the most accessible safari destinations in the world, and one of the only national parks that borders a capital city. 
• Karen Blixen Museum: You can tour the 1920s farmhouse where Blixen lived and wrote her famous memoir, Out of Africa.

Backpacking Maasai Mara National Reserve

Arguably the most famous safari park in the world, the Maasai Mara is an unmissable stop on any trip to Kenya. The reserve is contiguous with the Serengeti National Park across the border in Tanzania, and it’s the best place in East Africa to spot the Big Five.

It’s also the world-famous setting of the Great Migration, one of nature’s biggest spectacles — over 2 million animals travel from Serengeti to Maasai Mara, from July to September. 

The reserve spans an area of around 1,500 square kilometers and is characterized by open grasslands dotted with acacia trees and small hills. Sunrise and sunset missions are the real highlights because that’s when animals are most active and the lighting is killer for photos.

Most people visit the Mara on a safari package which includes accommodation, meals, and game drives — designed to take you close to the wildlife-rich spots. You’ve got packages with lodging inside the park included.

Backpacking Naivasha

Lake Naivasha is one of Kenya’s real highlights of the Great Rift Valley. It’s a shiny blue lake sitting at an elevation of just over almost 2,000 meters. It’s not far from Hell’s Gate National Park, so you can easily visit both in a matter of days.

The lake is rich in wildlife and there is a large hippo population living here. The surrounding forests are also home to buffalo, giraffe, monkeys, and a wide variety of birds.

Lake Naivasha is the perfect place to relax and get away from the chaotic hustle of Nairobi, which is just 100km away. The town itself is a very typical Kenyan urban setting with not a whole lot to hold your interest. It’s still where you’ll find transportation to Nairobi and other destinations.

Most of the budget accommodation around the lake are also based in Naivasha town, but some can also be found further around in Karagita.

Backpacking Hell’s Gate National Park

Don’t be put off by the slightly daunting name, because Hell’s Gate is a real treat to explore. The national park is just three hours northwest of Nairobi and slightly south of Lake Naivasha.

It’s characterized by volcanic rock formations, deep valleys, and high escarpments that are enough to get any outdoorsy person excited. For many, it seems to fit the bill as the real-life inspiration for The Lion King!

Amidst the incredible natural beauty, you can spot wildebeest, buffalo, and lions within the 68-square-kilometer area. It’s become increasingly popular among backpackers because it’s much more affordable than the Mara — plus, you can self-tour the park on foot or two wheels.

The easiest way of getting there is taking a minibus (or matatu) from Naivasha to the park’s entrance (Elsa Gate). And the daily park fee is only $30! An absolute steal compared to other parks in East Africa.

You’ll find plenty of bicycles to rent, but don’t expect much in terms of quality. Be sure that you at least have working brakes and you should be fine! Adventure , remember?

If you’ve packed a tent, you can also camp inside the national park at a few designated sites. This is, of course, the best way to experience it and allows you to see it once all the day-trippers have gone home. 

Backpacking Mombasa

Mombasa is the main hub of Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast, and it’s both rich in history and culture. It’s a huge bustling city and a major shipping port, but you can easily find the city’s charm amongst its historical sites. The Old Town area is where you’ll probably spend most of your time.

Kenya’s oldest city has a long history and a fascinating culture — an intoxicating blend of Arabia, India, and Africa. You’ll feel almost in a completely different country here! And it’s only really an introduction to the rest of the coast.

It’s likely that you have to return here after traveling more of the coastline since it’s well connected to Nairobi by both train and bus.

Here are some of my favorite things to do in Mombasa:

• Fort Jesus: This seaside fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Mombasa’s crown jewel. It was built by the Portuguese in 1593 and has stood the test of time as traders and colonizers have come and gone.
• Old Harbour: This is a disused harbor but the old dhow boats that are still docked here make for a picturesque image.
• Basheikh Mosque: The oldest mosque in the Old Town, it was built in the 13th century.
• Mandhry Mosque: A beautiful 16th-century mosque in Old Town.
• Spice Market: An aromatic and colorful experience in Old Town, on Nehru Road.

Backpacking Malindi

Malindi is the second largest coastal town in Kenya and it sits just 120km north of Mombasa. It’s welcomed foreigners since Vasco da Gama landed there in 1498, and has since become a popular getaway spot for travelers in Kenya.

It’s a bustling town and is not as laidback or charming as Kilifi or Watamu. Still, it makes for a great place to explore some sights and can be used as a transport hub for getting to more secluded spots on the coast.

The old town is an interesting place to wander and you can easily explore some of its history with its prominent Vasco da Gama pillar near the pier. However, its most enticing attraction is definitely the white sand and coconut palms on the water’s edge. 

Once you lay your towel down there, you may never want to move. Off the coast, the Malindi Marine National Park has incredibly crystal-clear blue water and is perfect for snorkelling and cooling off after baking in the sun.

There has been considerable resort construction along the coast in Malindi, but you can still find some relatively cheap guesthouses to stay at. If you want to escape the big town, most backpackers tend just head slightly south to Watamu, which has incredible coral reefs to explore.

Backpacking Lamu Island

Off the northern coast of Kenya is the Lamu Island archipelago. The main island, Lamu, is one of the most incredibly dream-like and picturesque spots in the country. It’s basically Kenya’s version of Zanzibar, except a lot quieter and maybe a bit more charming.

The little island is just 10km long but it is one of the culturally richest places in the whole of Kenya. Lamu’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its stunning traditional Swahili architecture.

There are no vehicles on the entire island, so you’ll be getting lost in the maze of streets with only locals and a few donkeys. The island is ringed by incredible sandbanks and floating dhow boats.

You can spend a few days by the beach, but if you’re feeling restless, take a boat to Shela Village or Manda Island which are even more secluded. 

If you’re able to, time your visit with a festival. The Lamu Cultural Festival happens every August and the Maulidi festival celebrates the prophet, Mohammed, during the third month of the Muslim calendar.

To reach Lamu, you can either fly straight there — there are regular flights from Mombasa or Malindi which are relatively affordable — or take a bus from Mombasa to Mokowe, and from there a 25-minute ferry ride.

Backpacking Amboseli National Park

If you’re in luck and Kili’s lofty peak isn’t shrouded in cloud, Amboseli is often considered one of the most picturesque national parks in all of Africa. The continent’s highest mountain, Kilimanjaro, stands across the border in Tanzania but looms high over the park for an incredible safari backdrop.

The park is known primarily for its herds of elephants, but it’s also home to cheetahs, wildebeests, giraffes, lions, and zebras. You can also spot over 370 species of birds in the park, making it a prime spot for bird watchers.

The park is not as big as the Maasai Mara, so a couple of days is usually enough to cover most of it. And just like the Mara, it’s best seen on an organized tour or safari that you can book virtually anywhere.

You’ll be close to Tsavo West National Park, which is just two hours away, so you can even combine the two for something a little different.

Backpacking Mount Kenya National Park

Mount Kenya is Africa’s second-highest peak, sitting at over 5000m. This rugged, lofty extinct volcano sits in central Kenya, almost directly north of Nairobi, and the peaks are covered in snow and glaciers year-round.

It actually has three distinct high points. The highest two are technical climbs and are reserved for mountaineers with proper knowledge and gear. The last one is Point Lenana at 4985m, which you can summit and come back down in about five days’ time.

In theory, anyone who is fit and able can climb up to Point Lenana, but around a quarter of trekkers fail mostly due to the sudden change in altitude. The weather conditions on the mountain are like nothing else in the country, so it’ll require some preparation. Get a team of guides and porters, and you’ll have one of the most thrilling experiences of your life.

Take your time and research into the tour operators before signing up and handing over any cash. You’ll need experienced guides who know the mountain, camping, and cooking equipment.

While a full summit attempt is an incredible adventure to be had, you can also opt for shorter one or two-day hikes in the lower slopes. You’ll get to take in the beauty of the landscape without risking altitude sickness. 

Nanyuki is the closest town to the mountain and has some good accommodation options.

Backpacking Loiyangalani

Looking for a place none of your friends ever heard of? Head to Loiyangalani! It’s unlikely for this town to come up in most backpacking Kenya guides, but to exclude it would be a real shame.

Loiyangalani is an incredibly fascinating place, and it should be your main destination if you’re heading north. It lies on the southeast coast of Lake Turkana in northwest Kenya, and you can reach it via a bone shattering bumpy road from Marsabit.

The town is a sort-of crossroads and home to some of Kenya’s most interesting tribes, the Turkana and Samburu. Although there’s not a whole list of attractions in town, the joy is in the journey of getting there and simply spending time with the local people.

The landscape is quite desolate and the harsh climate is a testament to the people who have called the area home for centuries. There is a local Desert Museum in town that is worth stopping by, but don’t think too much about swimming in the lake as it’s croc infested!

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Kenya

Kenya has one of the oldest running tourism industries in Africa, but it’s still not too hard to get off the beaten path. Most people traveling here just head to the Mara and the coastal towns, with very few exploring elsewhere.

This means that if you prefer to travel without the crowds, you can easily have Kenya’s landscape and culture to yourself.

Northern Kenya is by far the least visited area, and you’ll likely not encounter another foreigner here for days. This is certainly Kenya’s biggest adventure! You’ve got incredible cultural experiences and some crazy wildlife sightings waiting for ‘ya.

However, if you’re running low on time, you can try avoiding the crowds of safari jeeps and high-end resorts by opting for lesser-known parks and towns.

You can head to Tsavo West National Park and Tsavo East National Park, which are both between Nairobi and Mombasa and home to the Big Five. On the coast, try Tiwi Beach (south of Mombasa) or Kilifi to the north.

They might not boast recognizable names, but you can easily enjoy the highlights of Kenya without the crowds at these spots. 

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Top Things to Do in Kenya

Kenya packs a bunch of exciting activities for backpackers! To give you a little inspiration for the trip, I’ve put together a list of the ultimate things to do in Kenya:

1. See the Big Five on a Safari

Whether you decide to plan your own African safari on a budget or splash out on one of those more typical bougie tourist experiences complete with bucket hats and binoculars – a safari is easily the number one thing to do in Kenya. This is one of the best places in Africa to spot the Big Five, and with the number of national parks available here, you can easily hop around for weeks at a time.

Elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos — this is your chance to see them all. Maasai Mara National Reserve is the most popular and likely place to spot them all on the same trip. 

2. Witness the Great Migration

Hold on tight, because you’re in for one of the world’s greatest spectacles. The annual wildebeest migration in Kenya is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and the reason most people schedule their trip between July-September.

The migration is the largest mammal migration in the world and is one of the most breathtaking sights you’ll ever see. Two million wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes migrate from Serengeti National Park in northern Tanzania to Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Park.

3. Climb Mount Kenya

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for the ultimate bucket list experience, climbing Africa’s second-highest mountain is one of the best things you can do.

The two highest points of the peak are technical climbs, but Point Lenana is achievable on around a 5-day trek. It stands high up at almost 5000m!

If you don’t want to attempt a summit trek, you’ve also got shorter options for 1 or 2-day hikes inside the national park. 

4. Relax on the Beach

Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline is a true paradise. Adorned with palm trees, clear water, and white sandy beaches, the coastal towns in Kenya are an absolute delight.

This is the mecca of chill in Kenya. Come here if you’re looking to rest and relax — there’s plenty of opportunities to snorkel and explore the underwater world, too.

5. Explore the Old Town of Lamu

Lamu’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an incredible place to escape for a while. The small Swahili port town on the island of Lamu has an incredible blend of unique architecture and dhow boats floating in the water that reflect its Portuguese, Arabic and Indian influences.

Wander the skinny streets to admire the carefully preserved heritage and fascinating history of Kenya’s coast.

6. Visit a Maasai Village

The Maasai tribe is one of the most fascinating in the world. They inhabit the southern part of Kenya, around the Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Parks.  

They have been welcoming foreigners to their land for many years and villages often allow short visits by people wanting to have a brief glimpse into their traditional way of life.

This is something you don’t wanna miss!

7. Eat Nyama Choma

If you a real foodie, you have to try nyama choma, Kenya’s beloved national dish. And what is it, you may ask? Barbecued goat meat! They serve it on every possible occasion in Kenya.

You can also find it on most menus in restaurants. If you want to go full traditional, pair it with a side of ugali (maize) and eat it with your hands. Make your momma proud.

8. Cycle through Hell’s Gate

One of the most unique African safaris you can do is a cycle tour of Hell’s Gate National Park. The park is part of the Great Rift Valley and is characterized by a dramatic volcanic landscape.

There’s a range of different activities in the park, but one of the best things you can do is to grab a bike and take a self-cycle tour. The trails are well defined, and you can spot zebras, wildebeest, and even lions as you ride.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Backpacker Accommodation in Kenya

You’ll find accommodation options in Kenya for every end of the spectrum, and while the safaris might take a toll on your wallet, you can still practice the art of budget travel !

Despite having a longstanding history of tourism, Kenya doesn’t really have a solid hostel network. But that doesn’t mean that it’s expensive; you can still find plenty of affordable guesthouses in towns around the country. 

As a country that prides itself on its protection of wildlife and the environment, there are many great and affordable eco-lodg e in Kenya .

It’s not uncommon to find private rooms in basic guesthouses for the price of a dorm bed in other countries, but you’ve got other options to save up.

If you really want to travel Kenya on a shoestring, you can bring a tent and stay in campgrounds around the country — or wherever you feel like calling home, as long as it’s not a massive lion’s home already.

You can also try Couchsurfing or volunteering to save money, as you’ll often get a much more real experience, and accommodation included in the package. Try checking Workaway, for example!

The Best Places to Stay in Kenya

Kenya backpacking costs.

East Africa is generally a pretty affordable region to travel to, and it’s been on the Africa backpacker circuit for many years now. The cost of living in Kenya is pretty low, so accommodation, transport, and food won’t really break the bank.

In general, a safari will be the most expensive thing on your Kenya itinerary. These are expensive endeavors with exorbitant national park fees, but since most of it goes back to the conservation efforts, it ain’t all that bad in the end.

Still, a safari or climb up Mount Kenya will easily blow your daily budget out of the water and there’s not a whole lot you can do about it. 

A realistic daily budget for Kenya is around $30-50 per day, and this includes a guesthouse room or dorm bed, daily meals, groceries, transport, and maybe a beer or two.

You can push it even lower if you eat 100% local, stick to the crowded minibus, and camp. Or Couchsurf and make new friends! Best to try Couchsurfing once Covid has subsided.

A Daily Budget in Kenya

Money in kenya.

The Kenyan shilling is the official currency. ATMs are scattered around the country, and you can usually always find one (even in small rural towns).

It helps to travel with a wad of cash though, as almost all shops, restaurants, and ticket offices will only accept cash from foreigners. 

You should also keep small bills on you as much as possible and only use larger bills for paying things like accommodation. Most small vendors don’t appreciate having to break large bills for a small purchase.

You can easily get cash out at ATMs with most foreign cards but in larger cities, you’ll also find currency exchange shops.

Large expenses like safaris and treks are usually quoted in USD or Euros, but most of the time you can still pay in shillings as long as you can get that amount out of an ATM — and it will probably take a few withdrawals!

Travel Tips – Kenya on a Budget

• Carry a water bottle: This is both a budget AND sustainable travel tip. You can save money on bottled water and prevent plastic from being thrown into a landfill by bringing along your own bottle to refill. 
• Consider packing a tent: Camping is the best way to save extra money. There are plenty of places to camp in Kenya, with extraordinary landscapes to enjoy. To get some inspiration, check out our breakdown of the best tents to take backpacking .
• Cook your own food: If you’re really on a budget, then cooking your own meals is the way to go. Most Airbnb properties will have a proper kitchen, but you can also consider bringing a portable backpacking stove along if you plan on doing some camping/trekking.
• Volunteering: This is a popular thing to do in Kenya and is a great way to spend time in one place for a while. Usually, you can get free accommodation in exchange for work . Always do your research to ensure you are embarking on an ethical volunteering project.
• Do as locals do: The best way to stick to a tight budget anywhere you travel to is by sticking to what the locals do. Use the minibus to get around, pick unassuming local restaurants, and shop at local markets — haggle away, fellow backpacker !

Why Should You Travel to Kenya with a Water Bottle?

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful!

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller.

STOP USING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC! If you’d like some more tips on how to save the world .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Best Time to Travel to Kenya

Kenya’s weather patterns can be a little unpredictable. It’s a combination of hot, dry, and wet seasons, but you’re unlikely to ever feel really cold unless you hike up Mount Kenya.

In general, the weather is hot and dry from December-March, and hot and wet from April-June when the long, heavy rains arrive. July-October is warm and dry, and November to early December might bring along a few short rainfalls.

The coast is slightly different, and its weather is influenced by the Indian Ocean’s monsoon — this brings heavy rain from May to October. 

The first high season in the country runs from December to January because that’s when the weather is more pleasant across the country; the second coincides with the Great Migration (July-September), which is peak animal-sighting season.

Don’t let the wet seasons in Kenya put your travels on hold, though, as the rains tend to come for only brief periods of the day. You’ll also have fewer crowds in the parks and the landscape will be glowing green!

Festivals in Kenya

Kenya has surprisingly few festivals that are worth planning your trip around, but there are still a few that might interest you:

Lamu Cultural Festival: One of the best times to be in Lamu is during the cultural festival where the beauty and culture of the Swahili town are on full display. It happens every November for around 3 days and includes sailing, donkey races, and Swahili delicacies. 

Maulidi: This one is also held in Lamu, during the third month of the Muslim calendar. The festival has been going since the 19th century and consists of traditional music, dance, art exhibitions, and dhow races. 

Lake Turkana Festival: For a truly colorful and vibrant festival, this one is an incredible experience. The Lake Turkana Festival celebrates the Turkana tribe in Loiyangalani, on the coast of Lake Turkana. It runs every August for 3 days, showcasing traditional dresses, songs, and dances from 14 different tribes.

What to Pack for Kenya

If you’re wondering what to pack for your Kenya trip, here’s a list of my recommended essentials.

Travel Security Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

‘Monopoly Deal’

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Staying Safe in Kenya

While overall Kenya is a pretty safe country to visit, you’ve likely heard of stories related to crime and terrorist attacks. To get the bad stuff out of the way, there is a bit of a crime issue in major cities like Nairobi and Mombasa.

Pickpocketing is likely the worst offense that happens to foreigners. In crowded places, keep all of your valuables hidden or held in your hand. And keep your bags with you at all times — this is safe travel 101 !

The other major issue concerning people is terrorism. There are foreign government travel warnings for much of the coastline of Kenya and towards the Somali border for this reason.

Attacks have happened in the past, with members of Al Shaabab entering Kenya from Somalia. The most well-known incident, and one of the worst, occurred in 2013 in Nairobi’s Westgate Shopping Mall.

You should not ignore these situations, because they’re very real. But you should also have in mind that not only are they not directed at tourists, but they’re also not frequent. The situation has been stable even on the coast for some time now. 

As long as you use common sense and your special backpacker powers — we do have a reputation, don’t we? — you’ll do just fine. Carrying a money belt with you is a fine way of keeping your essentials protected at all times.

As a female solo traveler, I can tell you I’ve never had any bad experiences, and I’ve traveled to Kenya on three different occasions. I can certainly vouch for the fact that it’s a safe country for women and solo travelers too. 

Sex, Drugs and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Kenya

Kenyans love to get it down on the weekends, and you’ll find bars and clubs in major towns and cities around the country. Nairobi has by far the best nightlife and there are a variety of places that are open until sunrise.

If you’re keen on a good drink and boogie over the weekend, definitely go for it. East African hip-hop and RnB is probably going to be the soundtrack.

Beer is the most popular drink, along with whiskey, vodka, and basically any other spirit you can think of. It’s relatively cheap too, which helps, but make sure you maintain that common sense we’ve just talked about.

Drinking a bit too much can make you silly (and vulnerable), you know that!

Weed/hash and khat (a herbal stimulant that is chewed) are the most common drugs you’ll come across in Kenya. It’s not uncommon for the youth to smoke or chew, especially in the coastal areas.

Hard drugs are also becoming a prevalent problem in Kenyan society, however, I didn’t come across anything during my time there. 

Contraception is not as accessible and reliable as what you might be used to in your own country. And even though you’ll find condoms at most supermarkets and pharmacies, I wouldn’t rely on that. Come prepared!

Or don’t come at all… eheh. But seriously, stay safe.

Travel Insurance for Kenya

You never know what can happen on the road, and Kenya is unpredictable! Getting good backpacker insurance is a good way to cover your ass in case things go south.

I’ve been using World Nomads for some time now, and already made a few claims over the years. You can even buy or extend a policy mid-trip which really comes in handy.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Getting into Kenya

Most people arrive in Kenya by air. The main airport is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, which is around 30 minutes to one hour from the city center. You can also fly into Mombasa at Moi International Airport, but it’s not as commonly serviced internationally. 

Crossing into Kenya overland is quite common for backpackers, particularly between the East African nations. The borders with Tanzania and Uganda are relatively easy to cross and can even be entered with an eVisa.

There are regular bus services from Tanzania to Kenya across five different border posts, although the Namanga crossing is the most common — it connects Arusha to Nairobi. But then you’ve also got Loitokitok…

Between Uganda and Kenya, there are two border crossings open. The most common is Busia, which connects Kampala with Nairobi with regular bus services. With other borders, things get a bit trickier — there are no open crossings from Somalia to Kenya, for example.

The Ethiopian and South Sudanese borders are more precarious and entry requirements change all the time. However, you can still cross them with appropriate visas from an embassy, it’s just a long and arduous journey.

Entry Requirements for Kenya

Kenya’s visa policy makes it relatively easy for most travelers to get in. People from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and EU nations require a visa, but it’s easy to get.

eVisas are the most convenient and you can apply for one online . They can take up to seven days to process and give you 90 days with a single entry. You can also get multiple entry visas, but the price is heftier!

If your plan includes other East African countries, you should absolutely consider an East African Tourist Visa. It allows you to roam freely between Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. And it runs for three months — you save money, and you save the hassle of getting individual visas.

Get 15% OFF when you book through our link — and support the site you love so dearly 😉

Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

How to Get Around Kenya

Kenya is relatively easy to get around. You’ve got a wide range of transportation options depending on your budget and time constraints.

You can find domestic flights with Kenya Airways between Nairobi and regional cities. Even into national parks! It’s best to book way in advance, especially during the high season.

Trains are not so common in East Africa, but the new high-speed Nairobi to Mombasa rail service is certainly something you should consider. It cuts the journey time from a full day on a bus to just 4.5 hours by train. A lower-class ticket is around $9. 

By far the most common way of getting around Kenya is by bus. There is an endless network of buses and minibuses (called matatus), which service almost every town and city in the country.

Buses are all run by private companies, so comfort, quality, and speed vary wildly. Still, they’re the most convenient and cheapest way to move around — unless, of course, you’re a hitchhiking ninja . A bus ticket from Nairobi to Mombasa can cost around $6.

For all forms of transport, it’s best to book directly at stations or ticket offices. You’ll find bus ticket counters jammed up at major stops, but you can also pay directly to the driver.

Traveling by Motorbike in Kenya

Many travelers opt to bring their own motorcycle to Kenya, often as part of a bigger African odyssey. Your bike needs registration papers, insurance, and a valid driver’s licence. You also need a  Carnet de passage en douane , which is basically a passport for your vehicle to avoid paying import tax.

It’s common for people to ship their bikes in and out of Kenya from Mombasa to other destinations, although this is obviously a pricey endeavour. 

Having a motorbike allows you to explore the country at your own pace, and it can also enable you to see places that would otherwise be unreachable!

Be aware though that Kenyans are notoriously crazy drivers. If you’re riding a bike, you’re certainly the weaker element. Be aware of trucks and buses in particular, as they don’t tend to care much about other vehicles.

Hitchhiking in Kenya

This is a common practice in rural parts of Kenya, and locals will certainly understand what you’re doing. Flag them down on the side of the road, and good luck…

Hitchhiking is one of the main of getting around parts of Kenya where public transport doesn’t reach. And it’s one hell of an experience! Be wary though, as it’s not necessarily the safest option as a foreigner — do it in pairs if you can.

Working and Staying Connected in Kenya

While most people don’t think of Kenya as a remote-working hub, it’s certainly possible to work and stay connected in Kenya. Nairobi is by far the best option, as there is a growing start-up and digital nomad community.

Nairobi is also a popular place to live for expats in general, with many aid agencies and international companies basing there.

The city has over 30 co-working spaces with Nairobi Garage in Westlands being the first and most popular. You’ve also got Ikigai with four different branches across the city.

Wi-Fi at cafes is not usually reliable, but getting a SIM card in Kenya is pretty cheap (and easy). Safaricom is the most reliable 4G provider, and you can always top it with more data. Pick one up at the airport or at one of their shops in Nairobi.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Teaching English in Kenya

Teaching English is probably one of the most popular options when it comes to volunteering in Kenya . Although many people in Kenya are relatively fluent, there is a constant demand for help in schools, especially in rural areas.

Most English teaching gigs are volunteer-based, with accommodation and food in exchange. However, with a course certificate from MyTEFL and a Bachelor’s Degree, you can often find paid work teaching in private schools. 

Volunteer in Kenya

Volunteering overseas is a great way to experience a culture whilst doing some good in the world. There are lots of different volunteer projects in Kenya which you can join ranging from teaching, to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much anything!

Kenya is a developing country where volunteers are always in high demand. Community development, social work, and teaching are all areas where backpackers can make a huge difference to small communities. You’ll also find opportunities to help out with eco-projects, like tree planting or agriculture. Most travelers only need a tourist e-visa to volunteer in Kenya, which you’ll need to have before arriving.

If you want to find volunteering opportunities in Kenya, then we recommend that you Signup for Worldpackers –  a volunteer platform that connects local hosts directly with traveling volunteers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10 when you sign up. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers are usually very well-managed and reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering, do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

What to Eat in Kenya

Food in Kenya has a plethora of influences from early Arab settlers to Indian railway workers. And while it might not be anything extraordinary to write home about, you should still try it! I found it delicious, and there’s plenty of options for meat lovers and vegetarians alike. 

Kenyan food is very carb and meat-heavy. The main staple is corn or maize, which is ground into coarse flour and then cooked into a thick paste/cake called ugali. This is then served as a side dish with a stew or sauteed spinach known as sukuma . For many backpackers, ugali is the one thing they have to learn to acquire a taste of in Kenya.

If you can’t get into the ugali, rice is the other main carb staple and can be served instead of ugali. With a bit of a South Asian twist, you’ll often find chapati or flatbread served with the stew, too.

Kenyans consider meat a staple to their diet, which is bad news for vegetarians. Nyama choma (aka grilled goat) is the national dish and is often on most menus, but you’ll also find sauteed spinach dishes, sukuma, and plenty of other legumes as well.

The Best Food in Kenya

Here are some of the best foods that you should try in Kenya.

• Nyama choma: Grilled or barbequed meat, usually goat, served with relish and eaten with your hands.
• Ugali: Kenya’s staple food dish is made of coarse, white maize meal cooked into a spongey cake. It’s served with relish, spinach, and stew, and you eat it with your hands!
• Mandazi: A sweet or savoury deep-fried dough, similar to a doughnut. You usually eat it in the morning with chai.
• Chapati: Flatbread inspired from the Indian continent and served as a side dish to stews. 
• Githeri: A hearty bean stew made with an assortment of beans in a tomato sauce. It can sometimes come with potatoes!
• Pilau: Another aromatic Middle Eastern-inspired dish in Kenya is pilau. This fragrant rice dish is usually made with beef or chicken. 

Kenyan Culture

Kenya is far from a homogenous country in terms of ethnicity and culture. There are around 13 main ethnic groups and 27 additional groups scattered across the country.

There’s also a significant portion of Kenya that is of non-African descent, with large populations of Indian, Arab, and European immigrants living here.

This makes Kenya a fascinating cultural experience. And one that you can’t describe as one whole: from the Maasai villages in the south to the Turkana in the north, all the way through the Mijikenda tribe on the coast… you’ll witness a change in language, dress, and traditions as you move from one side of the country to the other.

There is real distrust between some of the tribes in Kenya, too. It’s not uncommon for a Maasai to tell you to never trust a Kikuyu and vice versa. Many of these animosities date back generations and are more tongue in cheek these days.

In general, the different tribes live together in relative harmony, although in rural Kenya they still tend to stick to their traditional territory.

Kenyans are incredibly friendly, heart-warming, and kind people. You will usually always be met with a big smile and a friendly chat, or a helping hand. The Kenyan people hold a dear place in my heart and is the main reason that I return to the country again and again!

Speaking Swahili – Useful Travel Phrases

It is believed that over 50 languages are spoken in Kenya, belonging to the various tribal groups in the country. However, English and Swahili are the two official languages. Swahili was adopted as a common language and is taught in schools so that the entire country can understand one another.

However, English is slowly taking over that role and most young people prefer to speak English, especially in Nairobi. The youngsters usually know their English well, but the older generations are more into their tribal language and Swahili.

Many people are multilingual, so it’s unlikely that you run into a lot of communication barriers — although to me it just makes traveling more exciting!

Before you start your journey backpacking Kenya, be sure to learn a few useful phrases in Swahili:

Jambo – Hello

Habari gani – How are you

Nzuri – Fine

Kwa heri – Goodbye

Asante sana – Thank you very much

Unasema kiingereza – Do you speak English?

Sielewi – I don’t understand

Samahani – Excuse me

Books to Read About Kenya

• Out of Africa : By far one of the most famous books about Kenya. This is the memoir of Karen Blixen, who lived at the foot of the Ngong Hills and managed a coffee plantation from 1914 to 1931. The language can be a little hard to swallow, but it’s a testament to the time it was written.
• A Grain of Wheat : A fiction book set in the time of the Mau Mau rebellion in a small village. It’s written by Ngugi wa Thiong’o who was 25 when Kenya received independence and reflects the struggles of colonialism in his work.
• Dust : This book takes a more current look at Kenyan society. It starts with the violence that followed the 2007 presidential elections and questions the brutality in the society by going back to the time of independence. Shortlisted for the Folio Price in 2015!
• Unbowed: A Memoir : This tells the story of the incredible woman who led an environmental and social movement to save the Karura Forest in Kenya. She tells her story as she went from peasant to movement leader to Nobel laureate. 

Final Advice Before Visiting Kenya

There are very few places in the world that can offer this much variety in landscapes, wildlife, culture, and natural beauty. Kenya is truly one of the most memorable places that I’ve ever traveled to, and I’m sure you’ll soon be on my side!

I hope this guide gave you the tools and motivation you needed to plan your Kenya trip. The country’s been welcoming tourists for quite some time, so you’re unlikely to run into any issues while navigating it.

Still, you should always keep in mind that you’re a mzungo (a foreigner) in the country. Be respectful of the people, the wildlife and the environment. Take photos, but ask first. Leave your footprints, but no other trace behind.

Backpacking Kenya is a magical experience and one that I didn’t know I needed so deeply. Enjoy your time there, amigos!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Elisha Donkin

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Hi Christian, We have a newly built exclusive luxury camp in Taita hills, fronting a river with 4 waterfalls . This should be perfect for you and your friend as it is 20 minutes away from Tsavo east. You will also enjoy privacy as the property only takes 2 guests at a time. Karibu Kenya.

Hi Elisha – my friend and I want to go to Kenya this summer in late July. We’re both guys in our late 20s and we want to do a mix of safaris (wildebeest migration at the Mara then maybe one other park) and seeing some of the native tribes. I’ve been corresponding with one safari guide but their price for 4 nights in the Mara is around $3500 for travel, accommodations, food, park entry and drives. I’m also not sure who the clientele will be, but I’m worried that it could end up being a bunch of families with kids (not that I have anything against travelling families, just not the vibe we’re looking for). Can you recommend any tour providers or camps for us considering what we’re looking for? Thanks!

Hi Christian

Sorry but we don’t have any tips for tour providers. We do know that they can be very expensive and prices have reportedly spiked owing to a high, post COVID demand.

Best of luck.

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12D Budget Kenya Safari Itinerary under $1.1k: Hidden gems in Nairobi, Safaris in Maasai Mara, chill Mombasa

No need to break the bank to fulfil your Nat Geo safari dreams.

From unforgettable animal safaris and National Parks, to beautiful beaches and friendly people, Kenya is one of the most accessible and attractive countries in Africa.

As a kid that grew up watching and reading National Geographic, visiting Kenya and going on a safari has been on my bucket list for the longest time. I’ve always dreamt of observing animals in their natural habitat and seeing the circle of life in action.

Unfortunately, visits to National Parks and safaris can also be notoriously expensive for tourists. Tours charge a premium, and information on how to travel around budget isn’t readily available. But it’s possible.

During my 12 days solo backpacking adventure around Kenya, I spent a total of only  US$1,099 ! There were plenty of conscious decisions, but I never had to compromise safety or miss out key experiences. In fact, it gave me the opportunity to mix around with the locals and learn more about their daily life!

That said, you do have to be comfortable squeezing on public transport, getting hustled, and staying in basic but comfortable accommodation. It can still go a lot cheaper, but this to me has the right amount of comfort and experiences to make a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime trip to Kenya.

Here’s my budget Kenya safari itinerary, with a summary of costs (at the end), tips, and FAQ on how you can do it too.

P.S. If you love travelling off-the-beaten-track, join TTI Experiences as we explore exotic destinations like Mongolia ! 

Pre-trip Essentials

Currency Exchange : The Kenyan Shilling (KES) is the Kenya’s currency. Major tourist attractions accept USD and EUR, but it’s always best to carry KES around for normal purchases. As it’s almost impossible to exchange KES in Singapore, I brought USD to exchange at the airport money changer, which had reasonable rates.

If you’re from Singapore, I suggest using the pre-paid  YouTrip Mastercard to save on currency exchange fees. Credit card payment is readily available in Kenya.

At the point of writing, SGD1 = KES73.71 & USD1 = KES99.66

Connectivity : The most affordable and reliable option is to purchase a SIM Card at the airport. I got a  Safaricom  SIM Card with 5GB Data and 30 minutes of call time for KES1,400 (US$14). I’d recommend getting call time to help with making travel arrangements on the go.

Kenya Itinerary Overview

I took an open jaw flight to Kenya , landing in Mombasa and flying out from Nairobi. Most people will do the reverse journey from Nairobi to Mombasa as it’s easier to make travel arrangements from Nairobi. However, I planned it this way as I wanted to build the trip up towards a climactic safari experience at Maasai Mara. Flights were also cheaper!

Check Flight Prices to Mombasa

Day 1: mombasa.

Settle into Kenya in the less chaotic Mombasa , explore a little, and make arrangements for your safari tours. It’s a great base and much more manageable than Nairobi, which can be overwhelming for first-time visitors.

There are limited touristic things to see, but do take a walk around the historic Old Town and UNESCO Fort Jesus .

I organised my first custom Safari Tour with Alex from Alexander Africa Safaris  upon recommendation from my hostel owner, and was impressed by the service. Alex was super professional, and even travelled down to the hostel to finalise plans with me. As I wanted to visit Amboseli National Park (more on that later) with a drop off at Nairobi, the custom tour was a little more expensive than their standard return tours to Mombasa. That said, it was still competitively priced compared to other local operators (I enquired with three other agencies).

*Pro-tip : If you’re staying in a hostel, make friends and convince other travellers to join you for a better rate!

With four people, you pay €300 (~US$340) each for an all-inclusive 2D1N tour that included: – Transport from Mombasa to Amboseli National Park to Nairoibi – 2 x Game Drives in Amboseli National Park + Guide – Amboseli National Park Entrance fees (US$60) – All meals during the tour – 1N Resort Accommodation

More about this part of the trip in Day 4–5.

Accordingly to Alex, he also has the network to plan trips from Nairobi if you’re starting from there instead.

Where to stay in Mombasa

Stay in a hostel. You get to make friends, trade information, share costs, and learn more about foreign cultures. Interestingly, there were plenty of visiting Kenyans staying there too.

Tulia Backpackers is probably the most value-for-money hostel when I was there. There’s a beautiful poolside bar, loads of space for games, three dogs, and an adorable cat. Dorms start from KES1,300, and hammocks for KES900 if you’re really on a budget.

There’s a Naivas Supermarket nearby where you can get affordable cooked food.

Getting Around : Either on foot or by local matatu (shared minivan) for ~KES50 to the Old Town Area

Day 2–3: Diani Beach

The long stretches of white sand beaches in Diani makes it one of the most popular resort towns in Kenya. It’s a great place to relax, party, and take in the atmosphere before venturing into the heart of Kenya. There are also loads of water sports and nature walks to keep you entertained. There’s a vibrant backpacking crowd here, making it perfect for meeting travel companions as well. If you have more time, consider taking a dhow (boat) trip down the south coast to snorkel or dive in some of the most beautiful waters in Kenya.

Beyond relaxing, Colobus Conservation Centre  organises one-hour Primate Eco Tours for KES750 to highlight the conservation efforts of the nationally threatened Angolan Colobus monkey.

After a day of chilling at Diani Beach, I headed back to Mombasa, ready to fulfill my National Geographic dreams.

Where to stay in Diani Beach

The sister hostel of Tulia Backpackers in Mombasa, Diani Backpackers is a party hostel with dorms starting from KES1,150. There are plenty of lounging areas, a pool, and people to meet.

Getting to Diani Beach from Mombasa

You can either take a taxi for ~KES3,500, or a couple of local transport to Diani Beach: – Matatu from Mombasa Town to Likoni Ferry — KES40 – Take the ferry across the river — Free – Matatu from other side of Likoni Ferry to Ukunda (30km) — KES70 – Matatu from Ukunda to Diana Beach (5km) — KES40

Day 4–5: Amboseli National Park Safari

Known as one of the best places in Africa to spot large herds of elephants, Amboseli National Park is also one of the most scenic National Parks in Kenya with Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro , towering across the border from Tanzania.

Amboseli is also unique as you get to see animals from different habitats in a relatively small area. There are lakes, wetlands, woodlands and of course the savannah.

We started the tour with an early morning hostel pick-up from Mombasa, before arriving at our accommodation  AA Lodge Amboseli  for lunch. For a budget-ish place, the lodge was amazing with a swimming pool, buffet meals, and a large room with warm showers. The more expensive resorts are located inside the National Park, but honestly I can’t justify paying twice the price when I’m spending only an extra 15 minutes to get inside the park. The chances of a wild elephant hanging outside your room is definitely shorter than its trunk.

The animals are most active in the mornings and evenings, so our safari game drives naturally happened around that time.

By 10AM the next day, we left Amboseli National Park for Nairoibi. What made things better was that my street smart guide managed to hook me up with another vehicle heading to Lake Naivasha when he learnt that I was going there next. While I did have to tip the new driver KES1,000, this was a lot faster and more convenient!

If you’re planning a safari in Kenya, do check out Alexander Africa Safaris .

Day 6: Exploring Naivasha — Mount Longonot & Crescent Island

Northwest of Nairobi is Lake Naivasha , a freshwater lake with plenty of hippos in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya. The surrounding landscape is quite out of this world, and the funny thing is that you don’t even realise you’re 1,884m above sea level at the lake.

The area around Naivasha is a DIY National Park haven, and you don’t need to go on any tours to enjoy the sights around here.

Mount Longonot

Start the day with a morning hike up Mount Longonot , a dormant volcano with a thick forest within the crater. The two-hour hike from the park entrance to the top of the crater rim was like walking into Jurassic Park. I was half expecting some Pterodactyls to fly out from the crater every time I look up. Did I mention the crater was MASSIVE?

The hike is pretty simple for a moderately fit person, and you don’t need a guide. Factor in another two hours if you want to walk around the crater.

National Park Fees : US$26 Getting to Mount Longonot from Lake Naivasha : For the budget traveller, transportation is a series of local matatus and motorcycle taxis. Buffer one to two hours each way including waiting time. Matatus usually only leave the station when they are full, so it’s best to travel in the morning and during lunch when there are more people. – Matatu from Lake Naivasha to Naivasha Town — KES100 – Matatu from Naivasha Town to Longonot Town — KES100 – Motorcycle Taxi from Longonot Town to entrance Longognot National Park — KES100

I got the vibe that I was overcharged a little more, but honestly paying a few extra cents is alright compared to hiring an expensive taxi for the day.

*Pro-tip : Take your time to look around and don’t get pressured by the matatu drivers. They will often say they are leaving now when the vehicle is only half full. Go for the matatu with the most people.

Crescent Island

Mid afternoon, I headed to Crescent Island Game Sanctuary , a private island owned by one the families from Kenya’s colonial past. It’s a very magical place with no fences and plenty of wildlife making it their home. I found it extremely serene roaming the island, walking on the same grounds as the wild animals nearby.

Crescent Island Entrance Fees : KES3,000 (payable at the house), KES100 if you’re walking (payable at the gate). Getting to Crescent Island : Most people arrive on a boat tour, but the budget way is to walk, cycle, or take a motorcycle taxi. I took a matatu to the outside gate, and stupidly decided to walk for 20 minutes. Not only was it a pretty long walk (before more walking on the island), I had to look out for hippos that stared at me threateningly. Hippos may look cute, but they account for the largest number of deaths by wild animals in Africa. I took a motorcycle taxi out for KES100 after some negotiation with one of the staff. Bicycles can be rented from most accommodations.

Where to stay in Lake Naivasha

Dorms at Camp Carenelley’s  start from KES1,000. There are also campsites and cabins to suit any budget. I particularly liked the restaurant, which is frequented by many people staying elsewhere. It’s a little pricey, but the portions are huge and the food is pretty good.

What to eat in Lake Naivasha

There are a couple of local restaurants that offer really cheap food for KES100–300 along the main road. The better ones can be found at the campsites and resorts. I particularly enjoyed going back to this Chinese restaurant called Hubei beside Camp Carnelley’s (see map above) as the food is much cheaper. There are plenty of local provision shops and a supermarket to buy supplies too. As I was out the whole day, I generally prepared sandwiches and snacks to eat while I was hiking.

Day 7: DIY Hell’s Gate National Park on a bike

Going on a safari tour isn’t the only way to see animals. Enter Hell’s Gate National Park , where you can literally walk and cycle with wild animals. It’s one of two national parks in Kenya that doesn’t have large carnivores, so it’s perfectly safe as long as you don’t aggravate any animals.

The rock formations are pretty epic, and you can easily spend a day exploring the ancient Hell’s Gate Gorge and other Geothermal sites.

I rented a bicycle for KES800 from my hostel at Camp Carnelley’s, and cycled to the entrance of the National Park 30 minutes away. For food, I mainly packed food to eat on the go, but do look out for the monkeys near Hell’s Gate Gorge.

Hell’s Gate National Park Entrance Fees : US$26 + KES215 (bicycle fees)

Day 8: Travelling to Mara Explorers Camp

After two active days of hiking and cycling, it was time to make my way towards Maasai Mara for the ultimate safari experience. Most people take expensive tours from Nairobi, but if you’re on a budget, I suggest staying at Mara Explorers Camp. It’s 3.8km from Sekenani Gate of Maasai Mara National Park, and you can easily hop on a full-day safari game drive for a fraction of the cost.

Here’s the cheapest way to get to Mara Explorers Camp: – Matatu from Lake Naivasha to Naivasha Town — KES100 – Matatu from Naivasha Town to Narok (2 hrs) — KES300 – Shared Taxi from Narok towards Sekenani (2.5 hrs). Tell them to drop you at Mara Explorers — KES500

I’ve met other travellers who got charged KES100–200 more for each leg and they may also charge for big bags. Try to reach Narok around lunchtime as there may not be any transport heading to Sekenani after that.

Be prepared for a good squeeze though. There were about seven of us in the shared taxi with bags and all! The drivers try to maximise their trip so they may pick up and drop passengers along the way.

Where to stay in Maasai Mara

Mara Explorers Camp is the best budget option, really. They have comfortable dome tents with proper beds, beautiful common areas, and a couple of really lovely dogs. Mara Explorers also organises guided nature walks, tours to a local school and Maasai Village, on top of full day safari game drives into Maasai Mara National Park.

A Budget Dome Tent with Full board (three meals) costs KES5,000 per person a night, and the food is pretty good. Accommodation is only  ~KES2,000 with hostelworld . There are kitchen facilities, so you can buy your supplies from the Naivas Supermarket in Narok and prepare your own meals to save more money. Camping is from KES1,000.

There are shared toilet facilities, with warm water that worked pretty well. Generally, the reviews are pretty good and worth what you are paying for. Power supply is only available in the common room though!

Day 9: Maasai Mara National Park Safari

Known as the greatest wildlife show on Earth, Maasai Mara (Kenya) and Serengeti National Park (Tanzania) are the grounds for Africa’s Great Migration — where hundreds of thousands of wildebeest cross the Mara River from July to October every year looking for fresh grazing grounds.

The wildebeest attracts a lot of carnivores, making it easy to spot wild animals. While the actual migration is hard to predict, Maasai Mara remains one of best safaris in Africa as there is simply so much to see.

I took a full day game tour from Mara Explorers for US$60 (excluding National Park Fee of US$80), and was really impressed at how skilled the guides were at spotting wildlife. It was like watching National Geographic in real life. I still get the chills thinking back to the moment when I saw four cheetahs successfully hunt a wildebeest.

In one full day, we spotted: – Four of the Big 5 African Game – Four cheetahs successfully hunting a wildebeest – A leopard dragging her kill up a tree – An antelope giving birth – Lions feasting on their kill – Wildebeest, gazelles, giraffes, elephants, hippos, vultures, hyenas, wild boars, foxes…

Most people would do at least two days in Maasai Mara National Park, but having had a really lucky first day, I decided to skip the second to visit a local Maasai Village (KES1,000 donation) before leaving for Nairobi. It was an interesting glimpse into the past, seeing how tourism has affected their traditional way of life, though that’s a story for another time.

Getting to Nairobi from Maasai Mara

Mara Explorers arranged a shared taxi for KES600 to Narok (2.5 hrs), where I took a local Matatu to Nairobi for KES350 (3 hrs).

Day 11–12: Nairobi

David sheldrick elephant & rhino orphanage.

Having visited many self-proclaimed animal orphanages, I was initially a little doubtful about the real impact at the  David Sheldrick Elephant & Rhino Orphanage . But after visiting the place, I’m happy to say that this isn’t a tourist trap. For an hour every day, the keepers bring the adorable baby elephants out for an open feeding session, sharing individual stories of how they were rescued and their plan for rehabilitation.

The orphanage hopes that through these interactions, they can educate both tourists and Kenyans (there were many school children on excursion) the importance of conversation and fight the war against poaching.

You can also support a baby elephant/rhino from US$50/year, receiving updates on the progress of your newly adopted kid.

*Pro-tip : Arrive at least an hour before opening hours if you don’t want to stand behind.

Entrance Fee:  KES500 Opening Hours:  11AM – 12PM Address:  KWS Central Workshop Gate, off, Magadi Rd, Nairobi, Kenya

Giraffe Centre

Made popular by social media influencers, Giraffe Centre shares the same grounds as the always booked Giraffe Manor . I loved how they managed to successfully leverage tourism for the conservation of the highly endangered Rothschild Giraffe .

Here you can feed and get up really close with the Rothschild Giraffe while learning more about their rehabilitation programme.

Entrance Fee:  KES1,000 Opening Hours: 9AM – 5PM Address: Duma Rd, Nairobi, Kenya

Kibera Tour

Despite high tourism prices, Kenya has a per capita GDP of only US$1,594 in 2017 . Kiberia is Nairobi’s largest slum, and you can take a tour to get a glimpse into the lives of some of the poorest in Kenya’s capital. There are certainly moral dilemmas to slum tourism , but there is no doubt that it has benefitted some people from the local communities by creating additional jobs.

Depending on your comfort level, tours can be arranged for KES2,500 with Kiberia Tours , where a portion of the proceeds go back to local community projects.

Where to stay in Nairobi

Wanting to wind down before heading home, I opted to stay at Wildebeest Eco Camp . Located far from the hustle and bustle of Nairobi’s city centre, it felt like another world. The grounds were beautiful and there were glamping tents for all budgets. Dorm tents start from US$22. You can also use the camping grounds for US$16.

Tours and food are pretty expensive though, so I suggest eating out and doing your own day trips. The camp was also pretty far from the main road.

Getting around Nairobi

Local Matatus for anywhere with a direct route, Uber for everywhere else. Uber is affordable and convenient in Nairobi, and there is no real need to get your own private driver.

12D Budget Kenya Safari Itinerary Breakdown

Accommodation:  $183.47 Food:  $182.71 Activities:  $657.08 Transport:  $76.46 TOTAL: US$1,099.72 (~S$1,484.62) Click here for the  detailed breakdown .

Note : I’ve excluded flights as it varies depending on where you’re flying in from. You can check flight prices here:

Frequently Asked Questions for Kenya

1) how many safaris should i visit.

Safari fatigue is real. While all the safaris are unique in their own ways, they can still be pretty similar and it’s advisable to spread the safari tours out. The ones in this itinerary were specifically picked for variety so it’s a pretty decent.

– Maasai Mara National Park — Best National Park in Kenya. If you only have time for one, this is it. – Amboseli National Park — The backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro sealed the deal for me. The terrain is also different from Maasai Mara so you get to see different things. The focus here are the elephants. – Hell’s Gate National Park — You get to cycle or walk in a National Park surrounded by wild animals. That’s pretty surreal to me.

2) Is it really safe in Kenya?

The short answer is yes! There’s plenty of hustling around tourist areas, but most mean no harm. Look after your belongings as you normally would, don’t flaunt wealth, and travel in groups at night.

Try not to give your number away though. A common scam is that someone will claim to have accidentally sent you money via M-Pesa (a mobile payment service) and ask for it back. Just ignore and they’ll stop after awhile.

3) When is the best time to visit Kenya?

The Great Migration of the wildebeest between July to October is the best. Hundreds of thousands of wildebeest crossing the river between Kenya and Tanzania is pretty darn amazing. Prices are highest during this period, so my suggestion is to visit at the tail end of the season to save money.

Budget travel in poorer countries like Kenya

While budget travelling is great, it’s also important to remember that travel is a privilege. I’m guilty of this too sometimes, but do be respectful while negotiating prices. An extra dollar to us may mean a full meal for others. We are often victims of circumstances, so don’t get too caught up with getting the “local” price for everything. Whenever I feel overcharged, I’ll simply say no thank you and go to someone else for a price that is acceptable to them.

Hope you found this budget Kenya Itinerary useful. Let us know if you have any other tips or questions in the comments below! 🙂

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Wow, this blog post really makes me want to travel to Kenya in the future. Just curious, do you need yellow fever vaccination for Kenya and how much is it?

Hey Zenneth, you will only need proof of Yellow Fever vaccination if you are travelling to Kenya from another Yellow Fever Zone. However when I was there, no one asked for it.

I do have the vaccination as I visited South America a couple of years back. Then it was about S$164?

What camera did you use to get these shots?

I used a Sony Mirrorless 6500 for these shots!

Hi! Can you recommend what lens is best for such a trip like this? Are the animals really far away, etc? Do you use an all-in-one lens for these situations?

I generally used a Sony 70-300mm lens. To be honest, most of the animals were pretty close and a 105mm lens was enough for most situations. For example, the lions were literally <10m away from us!

However, I may have been lucky and you also don't want to be in a situation where the animals just happen to be too far away. If equipment is not a problem, I will recommenced bringing the longest telephoto lens you have.

Hi! Thanks for sharing your experience! I’m curious, did you book all your safaris at the hostels where you were staying at that moment? Is that the way to go?

For Amboseli, I was on a 2D1N tour as I needed the transport. For Hells gate National Park, i just rented a bicycle from the hostel and cycled there myself. That’s the cheapest but there are probably also tours can organise this. For Maasai Mara, i booked my safari tour at the hostel after I booked my accom!

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Kenya daily travel budget

Kenya is not a low-budget destination. However, it is surely possible to enjoy a roadtrip in Kenya with a smaller pocket if you follow our budget travel tips.

On this page, we'll advise you on ways to cut costs, how to handle money in Kenya and what daily travel budget to expect when paying for accommodation, food and drinks. Any travel-related questions that are not covered here? Then don't hesitate to contact our team at Roadtrip Africa , we are happy to assist you!

Tips for visiting Kenya on a budget

Your travel budget for hotels, food and drinks in kenya, payment options in kenya.

While Kenya may not be considered a low-budget destination, it's entirely possible to enjoy its beauty without breaking the bank. Here are some budget travel tips to make the most of your experience:

• Self-driving:  Choosing a self-drive holiday in Kenya greatly saves on aeroplane -, safari - and taxi costs. On top of that: it's a wonderfully adventurous way to explore the country! Check out our self-drive itineraries here , and find car rental options with or without camp gear. 
• Camping savings:  Camping is a great way to cut down on accommodation costs. Campgrounds outside protected areas can be as budget-friendly as $5 per night. Discover and plan your stay with ease using the iOverlander app , which provides detailed plots and reviews for almost every campsite.
• Smart grocery shopping: Save on everyday expenses by buying groceries at local markets instead of Western supermarkets, where prices might even be higher than back home.
• Dining choices: Dining out at local restaurants is a lot more budget-friendly than eating in at an upmarket lodge or beach resort. Explore the local culinary scene for authentic flavours without a hefty price tag.
• Strategic timing: Consider planning your visit during the low and shoulder seasons, typically from March to June and often in November. During these periods, hotel rates can drop by 25-50%, and even car rental rates are more budget-friendly. For more information and detailed insights, check our blog - best time to visit Kenya .

Dining out in Kenya is generally quite cheap, with local restaurants offering plenty of budget-friendly options. However, if you opt for a three-course meal at a lodge inside a safari park, the cost is slightly higher, ranging from approximately $15 to $25 per person. It's customary to tip in Kenya, and a 10% tip is common and greatly appreciated. If you're satisfied with the service, consider being more generous, keeping in mind that tips are usually shared among all staff at most places.

When it comes to lodging inside a national park or conservancy, the price categories are as follows:

• Budget: Up to US$120 for a double room (Bed and Breakfast)
• Mid-range: Up to US$400 for a double room (Full Board)
• High-end: Beyond US$400 (Full Board)

For those seeking more budget-friendly accommodations, there are plenty of guesthouses and hotels outside national parks that offer lower rates. 

The cost of petrol can fluctuate, and for the most up-to-date fuel prices, it's advisable to do a quick online search. 

In Kenya, it's important to note that most restaurants, lodges, or campsites do not accept foreign debit cards. However, payment with credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) is generally accepted at more upscale hotels and restaurants.

For accessing cash, ATMs are widely available throughout the country. KCB, Barclays, and Citibank are reliable banks in Kenya that accept MasterCard, Maestro, and Visa. To ensure smooth transactions, bring additional cards, as daily withdrawal limits may apply to foreign cards at ATMs.

Currency exchange is easily done at Forex Bureaus in most provincial towns, where US Dollars and Euros can be converted to Kenyan Shillings.

Use mobile money for easy transactions

A convenient way to manage money during your travels in Kenya is through mobile money. This system allows you to store, send, and receive money using your mobile phone. Contrary to what you might think, Kenya is no longer a cash-centric economy due to the widespread use of mobile money. You can seamlessly settle bills or make payments (such as entrance fees at park gates, purchases at local markets, or restaurant bills) directly from your phone. To take advantage of this system, purchase a local SIM card (Safaricom is recommended), load it with airtime and an internet bundle, and register for MPESA at any Telecom kiosk. You can transfer Kenyan Shillings to your mobile money account through platforms like  Wise or load cash at a Telecom kiosk, enabling you to make mobile money payments effortlessly.

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Kenya budget: prices in Kenya and costs of traveling in Kenya!

How expensive is a holiday to Kenya? Is it possible to do a budget safari in Kenya? Can you backpack in Kenya? In this blog, I will answer all these questions. I also tell you how expensive our backpack trip through Kenya was, what a realistic daily budget for Kenya is and how high price in Kenya are!

Is Kenya a budget destination? Budget travel in Kenya!

No, Kenya is certainly not a budget destination. The country has traditionally been visited by wealthy, elderly tourists. You will notice this in many things such as accommodation and safari prices. The entrance fee to national parks is higher than in neighbouring countries such as Uganda and Tanzania.

How much money did we spend in Kenya?

First a disclaimer: Everyone travels in his or her way and has different priorities. That is completely fine, but keep this in mind when you read through our budget. It can always be more expensive or cheaper.

We made a budget trip through Kenya, mainly staying in hostels and travelled by public transport. Our trip through Kenya is part of our world trip where we also travel through Madagascar , Uganda and Rwanda .

During this trip we have had collaborations, resulting in discounts on accommodations. I did not include these discounts in the calculation below to give a representative picture of the actual prices in Kenya.

Budget facts on Kenya:

Total spent in Kenya: 351,139 Sh / € 3066.45 / $ 3411.41 Expenses per person in Kenya: 175,570 Sh / € 1533.23 / $ 1705.71 Average expenses per day in Kenya: 13,505 Sh / € 117.94 / $ 131.21

How much money to budget for accommodations in Kenya? – 41% of total budget Kenya

Total spent: 143,828Sh / € 1256.03 / $ 1397.32 Number of nights: 25 Average overnight stay for 2 people: 5752.99 Sh / € 50.24 / $ 55.89

Luxury hotels, beautiful lodges and beautiful safari tents are abundant in Kenya. However, these are generally not cheap! In some safari parks, a price of €1500 per night is not at all crazy. With our average spending of €50.24 per night for two people, we were a lot below that amount.

Hostels, backpackers or campsites in Kenya!

We often stayed in hostels or budget campsites where we slept in a rented tent. However, our last seven days were spend in luxury on the beautiful island of Lamu. Here we stayed in the beautiful  Jua House . Totally worth it!

Below you will find all the (budget) hotels we stayed in Kenya:

• Nairobi: Wildebeest Ecocamp , Nairobi Bush House and Camp , Nairobi Mansionette Home-Stay
• Masai Mara: Mara Explorers Camp
• Lake Naivasha: Naivasha Treehouse , Camp Carnelly’s
• Kisumu: Family Nest Guesthouse , Sooper guesthouse
• Lamu: Jua House

Click here for a free travel guide on  Lamu in Kenya!

How much money to budget for transport in Kenya? – 16.5% of total budget Kenya

Total spent: 58,450 Sh / € 506.46 / $ 563.43 Taxi: 9,051 Sh / € 79.04 / $ 87.93 Flights: 30,186Sh / € 263.61 / $ 293.26 Buses: 7,500 Sh / € 65.49 / $ 72.86

In Nairobi, we used Uber, very easy and really needed with the large distances that you sometimes have to cover in the city. We, therefore, incurred most of the above taxi costs in the seven days we spend in Nairobi.

Budget travel in Kenya: Use the Matatu!

Furthermore, we mainly travelled by public transport: Ries will definitely never forget the Matatus in Kenya. With his 1.93m he became didn’t really like the tiny vans. The Kenyans manage to put at least 22 passengers in one Matatu with 14 seats. Oh well, it’s definitely an adventure. In addition, the Matatu drivers are often so flexible to drop you off wherever you want to be dropped off, and that is very handy.

We booked our flight to Lamu a few weeks in advance, making it slightly more expensive than normal. Booking a bit more in advance, you will be able to fly for less than €100 per person.

How much does a flight to Kenya cost?

Depending on your departure country, you can already find return flight tickets to Kenya starting at 700 USD per person (travelling from Europe or the United States). Click here for the most current flight deals to Nairobi and Kenya. Because we traveled from Madagascar to Kenya, I did not include our flight ticket costs in this budget.

The ultimate Kenya itinerary can be found in this blog!

How much money to budget for food in Kenya? – 21.9% of total budget Kenya

Total spent: 77,025 Sh / € 672.65 / $ 748.32 Of which food and drinks: 55,995 Sh / € 489 / $ 544.01 Of which groceries: 21,029 Sh / € 183.65 / $ 204.31 Expenditure per day (2 people): 2,962 Sh / € 25.87 / $ 28.78

The costs of eating in Kenya were somewhat higher for us than in neighbouring country Uganda. This was mainly because we could not cook much ourselves here. In Uganda we travelled with camping gear, making it very easy to cook. In Kenya, we were often dependent on restaurants, which were not always cheap.

However, I still think that €12.90 expenditure per person per day on food is better than expected. For this, we ate tasty and relatively healthy. Especially the food on the island of Lamu was delicious: tuna, fresh fruit and local vegetables!

Read more: all about Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate National Park!

How much money to budget for activities in Kenya? – 15.1% of total budget Kenya

Total spent: 53,434 Sh / € 463 / $ 515.08 Kenya safari price: 120,000 Sh / € 104 / $ 115.69 Access to national parks: 27,134 Sh / € 235.11 / $ 261.56 Lamu boat trip: 5,186Sh / € 44.94 / $ 50

Kenya safari costs and other activities in Kenya on a budget

The costs for activities were not too bad for us and that is mainly because we did most safaris in neighbouring country Uganda. We only did two safaris in Kenya: the Masai Mara (so cool) and a bike safari in Hells Gate. If we had only visited Kenya, these prices would have been absolutely higher because we would have done more safaris

A budget safari in Masai Mara: Kenya safari costs with a small budget. 

Activities in Kenya are generally very expensive. You pay high entrance fees to enter national parks or reserves and game drives are also not cheap. In general, you should count at least 300 dollars for a Kenya safari price per person per day (including food and accommodation). Most often safari’s in Kenya are even more expensive because of the high costs of accommodation and food in the park. However, we did manage to do a safari in Kenya on a small budget. Our Kenya safari costs were about 200 dollars per person for a safari. Read more about how we did a safari in Masai Mara on a budget in the blog below:

Free travel guide: inspiration on how to organise a budget safari in Masai Mara !

Other expenses in Kenia – 0.5% of total budget Kenya

Total spent: 19,424 Sh / € 168.31 / $ 187.24 SIM card: 2,505 Sh / € 21.71 / $ 24.15 Beauty products: 2,117 Sh / € 18.35 / $ 20.41 Tip: 7,573 Sh / € 65.62 / $ 73.00 Souvenirs: 7,228 Sh / € 62.63 / $ 69.68

Kenya was our last country and so we also bought the necessary souvenirs here.

We bought a prepaid SIM card from Africell with 8GB of internet and 400 calling minutes. We paid 1000 sh for this (around 10 dollars). The corresponding SIM card cost 550 sh. We had good coverage almost everywhere with Africell.

Prices in Kenya: of food and general travel expenses

Below you will find prices in Kenya. Information like the cost and prices of food and general travel expenses in Kenya. When cooking yourselves, budget travel in Kenya is defenitly possible!

• 1 kilo of apples: 299 Sh / € 2.59 / $ 2.88
• 250 ml olive oil: 525 Sh / € 4.54 / $ 5.05
• 1 bag of chips: 150 Sh / € 1.29 / $ 1.43
• 1 kilo of bananas: 84 Sh / € 0.72 / $ 0.80
• Yoghurt (0.5 L): 92 Sh / € 0.80 / $ 0.89
• 1 bread: 120 Sh / € 1.04 / $ 1.15
• 1 avocado: 30 Sh / € 0.26 / $ 0.29
• Pack of milk (1L): 129Sh / € 1.09 / $ 1.21
• Bottle of cola (2L): 149 Sh / € 1.29 / $ 1.44
• Pot of Nutella (350 ml): 600 Sh / € 5.19 / $ 5.77
• Bottle of water (1.5 L): 70 Sh / € 0.61 / $ 0.67
• Wine in supermarket (750 ml): 1200 Sh / € 10.39 / $ 11.56
• Bottle of beer in the supermarket: 176Sh / € 1.53 / $ 1.70
• Shampoo: 300 Sh / € 2.59 / $ 2.88
• Cappuccino: 250 Sh / € 2.16 / $ 2.40
• Glass of wine in restaurant: 450 Sh / € 3.89 / $ 4.32
• Local beer in a restaurant: 234 Sh / € 2.02 / $ 2.25
• Simple lunch/evening meal (1 person): 1000 Sh / € 8.66 / $ 9.63
• 1 liter of diesel: 100Sh / € 0.88 / $ 0.97

Travel tips: the ultimate Africa packing list ! What to pack for a trip to Africa?

Conclusion: is Kenya an expensive destination?

Yes, Kenya is an expensive country to visit as a tourist. Prices in Kenya lay high. The gap between what locals earn and what you spend as a tourist is also very large…  The minimum salary in Kenya is only 20038 sh, which amounts to €173, while as a tourist we already spend €117.94 per day. This makes Kenya even for Kenyans themselves very expensive!

What is a realistic daily budget for Kenya?

Because prices in Kenya are high, a realistic daily budget for Kenya as a backpacker is around 75 euros per person per day. You will travel by public transport, sleep in hostels, eat simple meals with the occasional outlier, do about three budget safaris and visit several national parks. This is roughly in line with what Lonely Planet has as spending indication for a budget backpacker (100 USD)

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More travel blogs on Kenya

Masai mara safari: how to do a budget safari in masai mara in kenya, jua house on the island lamu: the most relaxing place and hotel in whole kenya, africa packing list: essential packing tips for east africa and madagascar, lake naivasha and hell's gate national park in kenya: 6 cool things to do, 10 comments.

Hi dear Charlotte I'm Hossein from Iran . Thank you so much for your notes about Kenya . It is very useful for me and hope one day can see you and talk about your experience in your travels and your dreams . Thank you so much and be happy for ever . Best regards Hossein

Hi Hossein, Thanks! Enjoy your future trips and stay safe! kind regards, Charlotte

I like your blog. Thanks for share your information with us.

That is very kind! Thank you!

Thanks so much for the great post! I’m excited to start planning my trip.

Nice Article! I’ve really been enjoying your posts, Keep it up.

Nice Article! Planning ahead is certainly the way forward with holidays, especially popular destinations.

Thanks for the info. I have always wanted to visit the country, especially the Mara. When is the best time to see the wild beast migration while crossing that crocodile-infested river?

What airplane did yall used to travel into Kanya?

Hi Clos, We used KLM- Keyna Airways, not sure which airplane. We came from Madagascar and before that from Amsterdam. Kind regards, Charlotte

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Kenya Budget Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 145 most popular kenya budget trips. compare tour itineraries from 47 tour companies. 194 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating., popular kenya budget tours.

Serengeti & Kilimanjaro

• Explore Serengeti National Park in depth with two early-morning and two late-afternoon game drives through this spectacular wildlife arena.
• Take a mind-blowing safari across the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater in an open-roof 4WD for a chance to see the endangered black rhinoceros.
• See it before you climb it! Not only is Amboseli National Park home to the largest population of African elephants in Kenya it also has exquisite views of Mt Kilimanjaro on clear days.
• Hike Kilimanjaro's climactic last stretch by lamplight and give yourself as much chance as possible to watch a sunrise over ice fields from behind Africa’s highest peak.
• We’re an official partner with the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project. Hike easier knowing that while our porters are taking care of you, there’s someone looking out for them.

Gorillas & Masai Mara - Camping

• Spend a precious hour in the company of mountain gorillas
• Enjoy game drives in the Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Queen Elizabeth National Parks
• Visit Murchison Falls National Park
• Track chimpanzees and other primates in Budongo Forest
• Option to do white-water rafting

East Africa Highlights

• Meet Kenyan Maasai warriors and visit a Maasai village that champions women’s health, and spend time with a Hadzabe community in Tanzania to see how their ancient culture exists today.
• Venture into the incredible Masai Mara National Reserve for a full-day game drive in 4WDs.
• Explore the Serengeti National Park in depth, with two early morning and two late afternoon game drives through this spectacular wildlife arena.
• Accompanied by a local crew — a leader, driver and cook – you'll be in excellent hands for the duration of your adventure.

Kenya Photographic Safari with Paul Goldstein - Premium Adventure

• Photographic safari guided by Paul Goldstein– every detail considered with photographers in mind
• Six nights atthe superb, intimate Kicheche Camps, which are in prime locations across exclusive conservancies
• Off-road driving permitted in the Mara conservancies, getting you closer to the action
• Strict rules enforced on vehicle conduct within the Mara conservancies to prevent overcrowding
• Private conservancies work in harmony with Maasai landowners and ensure low-tourism density – just one bed per 350 acres (141ha) of wilderness

Nairobi to Zanzibar: Serengeti & Sunsets

• Track the "big five" across the serengeti and the ngorongoro crater
• Get close to nature by camping in the wilderness
• Bliss out on the white-sand beaches of zanzibar
• Experience the hustle-and-bustle of stone town

Kenya & Tanzania Adventure

• Enjoy game drives in Lake Nakuru National Park searching for endangered rhinos
• Explore the Masai Mara a grassland teaming with wildlife
• See wildlife in the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater
• Visit the exotic spice island of Zanzibar and chill out on the coast

Tanzania Family Safari

• Encounter roaring lions and magnificent zebra in the famous Serengeti National Park as our small safari vehicles get you close to the action in this spectacular wildlife arena.
• Experience the thrill of camping among nature and drift off to sleep to the sounds of the African night.
• Meet some Maasai Mamas (the name for women artisans in Tanzania) and learn about their village life, including how to prepare a local Swahili dish.
• Take a mind-blowing safari across the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater for a chance to see the endangered black rhinoceros.
• Accompanied by a local crew – a leader, driver and cook – you and your family are in excellent hands for the duration of your adventure.

Classic Serengeti & Zanzibar

• Enjoy wildlife drives in the serengeti
• Savour traditional cuisine in a local village
• Take in the views at ngorongoro crater
• Meet local artisans on a village walk
• Explore the unesco world heritage site of stone town

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Kenya budget reviews & ratings, great trip.

It was a great trip, wonderful to see the animals in their natural habitat. Some long days of driving but well worth it in the end. Erellah was great leader, poi...

Kenya & Tanzania safari adventure Aug 17

Saw all the infamous National parks &amp; so much awesome wildlife, too numerous to mention. Great group, relaxing tour pace &amp; even the camping was great! The w...

Kenya & Tanzania Safari Adventure Aug 17

Although we had previously visited Kenya six years ago (on the Gorillas and Masai Mara trip) we had never seen the wildebeest crossing so I had really hoped to be ...

A trip of a lifetime!!

This trip was a once in a lifetime trip and the memories we made will last a lifetime!! Hot air ballooning over the Masai Mara was incredible and the large numbers ...

Unbelievable adventure

Well where to begin in reviewing this trip? I guess at the start and it certainly is as advertised an adventure, and an adventure you will never forget. From the v...

See all Kenya Budget reviews

Kenya Budget Tours FAQ

1. Does Travelstride have all the tour operators?

2. How does the Member Savings program save me money?

3. Can I trust the tour operator and trip reviews on Travelstride?

4. What does ‘Stride Preferred’ mean?

Cost of a Trip to Kenya & the Cheapest Time to Visit Kenya

The average price of a 7-day trip to Kenya is $1,425 for a solo traveler, $2,382 for a couple, and $1,650 for a family of 4 . Kenya hotels range from $41 to $196 per night with an average of $78, while most vacation rentals will cost $60 to $470 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Kenya (from all airports) are between $1,029 and $1,811 per person for economy flights and $3,231 to $5,687 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $32 to $67 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Kenya

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to Kenya and stay in a Kenya hotel:

• January 8th to May 20th (except the weeks of March 12th and May 7th)
• September 3rd to October 7th
• October 29th to December 9th (except the week of November 19th)

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Kenya is usually early November .

Average Kenya Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Kenya for a week is $1,026-$2,331 ($147-$333 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $32 to $67 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $484 to $1,382 for economy

Lodging : $53 to $75 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $66 to $80 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Kenya for a week is $1,734-$4,174 ($248-$596 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $64 to $133 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $968 to $2,763 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Kenya for a week is $3,426-$8,295 ($489-$1,185 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $128 to $267 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,936 to $5,526 for economy

Lodging : $106 to $150 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $99 to $121 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Kenya

How cheap can you make a vacation to Kenya? The cheapest trip to Kenya is about $116 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 19% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $16 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $35.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Kenya for a week is $813-$2,105 ($116-$301 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $17 to $33 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $35 to $41 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $52 to $82 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Kenya for a week is $1,409-$3,717 ($201-$531 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $33 to $66 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Kenya for a week is $2,812-$7,176 ($402-$1,025 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $66 to $132 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $69 to $82 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $78 to $121 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very easy to travel to Kenya cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Kenya Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Kenya.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Kenya for a week is $2,342-$9,718 ($335-$1,388 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $65 to $132 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,215 to $3,334 for first class

Lodging : $112 to $196 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $453 to $910 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Kenya for a week is $4,013-$13,975 ($573-$1,996 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $130 to $264 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,431 to $6,667 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Kenya for a week is $8,026-$25,202 ($1,147-$3,600 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $260 to $528 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $4,862 to $13,334 for first class

Lodging : $224 to $392 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $676 to $1,362 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Kenya Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Kenya is much lower than the average city. On average vacation rentals are less expensive than hotels. Luxury hotels are more expensive in Kenya due to hotel employees. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Kenya Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Kenya hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Kenya.

Flight Costs to Kenya

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,811 average in late December to a low of $1,029 in early November. Median flight price is $957. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Kenya our data includes thousands of originating airports, and hundreds of airlines. The area has more variance in price compared with other locations.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Kenya, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $782, so you can easily save about 76% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Kenya can easily cost $247 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $17 per person. Private tours can cost $494 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Kenya Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Thika, Kenya
• Ruiru, Kenya
• Kasarani, Kenya
• Mlolongo, Kenya
• Athi River, Kenya
• Murang’a, Kenya
• Machakos, Kenya
• Gigiri, Kenya
• Nairobi, Kenya
• Ruaka, Kenya

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• Marbella, Spain
• Oleta River State Park, the United States
• Tbilisi, Georgia

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Africa , KENYA

How much does a kenya safari cost.

I think it’s one of the biggest misnomers in budget travel – namely that Africa is cheap to travel.

Again, that’s far too obtuse, let me reframe that…

I think it’s one the biggest misnomers in budget travel that East Africa is a cheap destination to head to.

Indeed, travelling in East Africa, of which Kenya is a part, can often be hugely costly to adventure in, especially if you don’t shop around for bargains or are constantly off on activities and excursions.

As usual, tours are always the most expensive way to travel but, because many people feel so nervous about travelling in this part of the world, they often opt for them, which although isn’t necessary, I do understand.

Now this is all fine – if you have a big budget, want to splurge on the trip of a lifetime or don’t have a lot of time to research and plan then having an expensive trip to Kenya is no problem!

However, if you want to visit this country on less than your average tourist and still have a good time, it pays to know a few key tips.

So here’s my guide to what you can expect to pay for a trip in Kenya, as well as some of my top budget tips for travel here.

Hope it’s helpful!

Related Posts

• 22 Things to Know Before You Travel Kenya
• Ultimate Kenya Packing List
• 14 Epic Things to Do in Kenya

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Introduction to this kenya travel budget.

This budget is based exactly on my travels in Kenya, which actually lasted a couple of months in total… so you can trust it’s entirely authentic!

And now that you trust me(!), let’s be clear about something – this budget involves travelling in Kenya as a solo shoestring adventurer i.e. eating in cheap local spots, staying at cheap local hostels and opting for cheap safari and scuba diving deals.

It involves using local public transport where possible and works towards keeping entrances fee, tours and guides services to an absolute minimum.

And that’s because I’m a budget travel blogger!

This means I’m always looking to do things as cost-effectively as possible while still having a good time and the odd treat 😉

And have a good time in Kenya I certainly did, which is why I’m so happy that my daily expenditure here actually came in lower than that of any other East Africa country I visited – namely Rwanda, Uganda and Tanzania.

Mostly this is down to the fact that I stayed in Kenya the longest and, in particular, stayed put in a number of places at the coast for quite a while, which certainly helped lower the cost.

As always, slow travel wins!

But I realise this isn’t everybody’s style and so this article is going to be based around what particular elements of your trip might cost and to give you some idea about what you can expect to spend, especially if you’re trying to watch your small pockets!

Things Not Included in the Budget

However, it’s worth pointing out that there are some elements I didn’t include in the budget, most of which involved expenses incurred before I reached the country.

For example, this budget doesn’t include the cost of any visas (which for Kenya you probably will need FYI), nor the cost of international flights, (I always use Skyscanner to find the best deals) so don’t forget to factor those in as well.

The budget also doesn’t include any gear I bought before the trip, nor does it include travel insurance.

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.

And with that preamble out the way, let’s get on with bringing you my full guide about how much travel in Kenya really costs…

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#1 Accommodation in Kenya

So the first thing that might start to surprise you about the cost of travelling in Kenya is the accommodation.

This is likely to be because it’s probably is not as cheap (on average) as you would expect.

As with a lot of travel services in this part of the world, there’s a reason for that – the infrastructure isn’t as well developed and it is mostly aimed at a foreign market and priced accordingly.

There are slight nuances to this in Kenya, mainly that the tourism infrastructure here is quite well-developed especially compared to other countries in the region, and also that I did travel with other Kenyans – hoorah (there’s a growing urban-based middle class that especially enjoy going to the coast) – but broadly speaking my initial assertion rings true.

Or at least, that’s how the tourism industry has developed in this country and that’s how it’s stuck!

In this way, your accommodation prices are likely to be comparable to countries like South Africa, Peru or Italy.

Think around $10-20 USD for a dorm bed and $25-40 USD for a private room in a hostel.

Hotel rooms start from around $65 USD and more deluxe options can easily run into hundreds of dollars a night.

If you’re interested in staying in hostels – and there are some seriously great ones in Kenya, then do check out my ultimate Kenya itinerary , which lists all my favourites.

In general, these are local businesses that really help enable cheaper and more lowkey forms of travel in Kenya, so I think it’s great to support them.

Most are very clean and comfortable places where you can easily meet other travellers and also score safari trip deals that are more appropriately priced for budget travellers.

If you prefer to look for a hotel or apartment however, then I highly suggest checking out the following major destinations options for some great deals…

• Accommodation in Nairobi
• Accommodation in Mombasa
• Accommodation in Nakuru
• Accommodation in Naivasha

When it comes to accommodation, you’ll also want to remember that travelling in high season is always going to involve the top price tags, as will visiting during a major holiday or festival, such as Christmas or Easter.

If you want to really work at keeping your accommodation costs down in Kenya, then a great tip is to stay in one place for longer.

By this I mean basing yourself in one city or destination for a lengthier period of time, and then simply day tripping from there.

As an example, there are several safari parks you can easily visit from Nairobi in a day and likewise from Mombasa or the southern coast.

The other top tip to keeping accommodation costs low in Kenya is to camp.

We’ll talk about this in the activities section, but in general, most safari parks offer camping and this is by far the cheapest way to enjoy some time here, especially as there’s often very little choice in between this and a luxury lodge.

I wouldn’t advise wild or free camping in Kenya, it’s best to do it either with a designated accommodation or tour provider, but within these parameters, it’s a good option.

To work out your overall accommodation costs for Kenya (or anywhere!), you simply multiply the average budget accommodation figure of say, $20 USD per night, by the number of nights you plan to spend in the country.

Et voila, you have your rough accommodation budget mapped out!

To be honest though, it’s hard for me to do this on this occasion because so much of the accommodation I booked in Kenya (especially the camping) was included as part of a safari tour and I therefore have no idea what I paid per night.

This is why working out the costs to travel somewhere like Kenya can be confusing as most people (even us hardcore budget adventurers) will end up taking at least some form of multi-day excursion.

And why not?

It really is often the best way to see some of the main attractions here.

#2 Transport in Kenya

This is another area that, when working out travel costs, can be tricky in Kenya.

And that’s because, once again, if you take any tours in Kenya, especially to safari reserves, they are likely to include transport costs, so it can be hard to ascertain what exactly the individual travel costs are.

However, as I did travel independently in parts of Kenya, I have got a reasonable grip on some of the costs of moving around this county.

First up, the cheapest way to get anywhere in Kenya is via a local bus or matatu.

The latter are minivans that ply short distances, say within a city itself or between neighbouring towns.

Normally there’s a lot of loud music and crowding involved and they can be very fun – just watch your pockets.

Trips through Nairobi on one of these cost less than $1, while ones that transport you between cities, say Nakuru and Nairobi, costs under $10.

These guys go fast and safety isn’t the best, but they are no worse than chicken buses in Central America or the marshrutkas in the Caucasus!

Otherwise, there’s also more “sophisticated” coach services that ply longer distances, say up to the north of the country, as well as the train that runs from Nairobi to Mombasa and is frequently used to get to the coast easily.

Finally, for short distances, it’s good to know that Uber operates in Kenya, and for longer stretches, there’s a domestic airline service, care of Air Kenya, that can get you to destinations like Mombasa or Lamu.

Flights can be booked for the best rates on Skyscanner , because these guys compare even budget airline options.

As an example, you’re looking at around $80 USD to get from the capital to Mombasa direct.

Otherwise, when it comes to rail and bus travel, it’s best to head to the station itself to buy a ticket and confirm the departure time – things can be a little flaky around here as you can imagine!

Of course, transport costs are going to be hugely dictated by how much you travel around Kenya and which modes of transport you use.

Buses are cheapest of course and flights are the most expensive – although booking these early will get you some good rates.

As such, a key way to keep transport costs down, if you don’t want to use local buses and just rock up on the day, is to plan your Kenya itinerary in advance so you know exactly which days you’re going where and book accordingly.

This will also allow you to book accommodation in advance and keep things cheaper there too, as you’ll be reserving spots ahead of the curve!

#3 Tour & Activity Costs in Kenya

Ok, where this is where things can really start to diverge, and also spiral, with your Kenya travel budget if you’re not careful.

And that’s because I’d say the biggest indicator of how much your Kenya trip will cost you will be based on this component – namely how many tours you take in this country, how long they last and what level of luxury they involve!

At the cheapest end, a standalone tour to one reserve near to Nairobi that has camping as its choice of accommodation is still likely to cost around $100-150 per day per person.

Generally, this will include a pick-up and drop-off, as well as 2 meals a day, secure accommodation, transport within the park and safari guides too.

When you consider all this, it’s really quite reasonable, especially given that all this will help you have the best time and see the greatest wildlife too.

On the other end of the spectrum, which I’m not really going to go into, there’s opulent luxury tours that can easily stretch into $1000’s of dollars for just a few nights.

Of course, these will have smaller group numbers, private transport and safari drive options and involve stays in boutique lodges.

If you can afford it, the sky really is the limit!

If the sky is not quite your limit however, and you’re trying to keep costs low in this country, then I’d certainly recommend minimising the number of organised activities and tours you take, because you really could go to town!

Honestly, I’d recommend reserving tours in Kenya to the places you can’t go by yourself, or you can’t get the same experience when you go by yourself – this would include scuba diving activities on the coast, hiking Mount Kenya or safari tours to parks you really want to visit (again research pays off here!)

In my opinion, these safari parks include:

• From Nairobi: Lakes Nakuru & Naivasha National Park Day Tour
• Nairobi National Park Half-Day Game Drive
• From Nairobi: Hell’s Gate National Park Full-Day Adventure
• Dhow Sailing Tour of Kisite Marine Park & Wasini Island from Mombasa
• Tsavo East & Salt Lick Lodge Safari 2-Day Tour

Taking guides or trips to these areas is a great way to experience the diversity of Kenya and dig deeper into the culture, landscape and history of this nation.

If that interests you too, then I do recommend spending some money on day trips and tours, as they will likely offer some fantastic and unforgettable experiences.

I certainly consider the money I put into tours and activities in Kenya well-spent – after all, why travel to a country if you’re not going to see the best of it?!

And when it comes to safaris or other excursions I’ve mentioned, the reality is they are very difficult, and often more costly, to do independently.

Weird, but that’s just how it works round here! Largely because companies can tap into bulk discounts and repeat deals, you simply can’t as an independent traveller,

Also it’s worth bearing in mind that if you book tours in person, last minute, you can always try to negotiate a good deal.

Likewise, if you take a longer tour, or a couple of tours with the same company, the price per day will come down.

All worth bearing in mind!

#4 Entrance Fees & Guides

In Kenya, most entrance or guide fees are included in day trips or tours you take, which means it’s likely that this section of your budget will be very low outside of those costs.

Great news if you’ve accidentally gone over budget in other areas!

For me, these charges amounted only to what I tipped guides and drivers at the end of a tour – this is the culture in Kenya and can make a real difference when it comes to what people earn.

#5 Eating & Drinking Costs in Kenya

Well hello to this category, because first up sticking to local offerings means food and drink is very cheap in Kenya.

This is because it’s the one part of the tourism offering that many local people obviously engage heavily with as well.

Ok, so I’m not talking about fancy restaurants in Nairobi, although of course they are there and attended by certain strata of Kenya society, but I’m also talking about just your average beer in a shop, local cafe or street food!

Because going local is always cheaper – local beer is the bargain of choice and you’ll likely drink a lot of it in the warm sunny climate of Kenya. Tusker is the most popular option!

Food-wise, there’s a lot of rice, beans, corn, eggs and goat if you eat as locals would – plus fish on the coast.

If you eat on the street or in a local joint, a plate will cost you just a couple of dollars…. And will fill you up!

Fresh veggies can be harder to come by – so go to supermarkets and shops for these.

Actually there are some “Western supermarkets” in more developed areas of Kenya that boast an impressive array of options, certainly in the major cities at least, so you’ll be fine.

I have to say though, even as a vegetarian, I always found something to eat in Kenya… and it wasn’t that hard!

There’s also bottles of drinking water to factor into your Kenya travel costs.

Although if you take a Lifestraw Go Water Filter Bottle as I did – this will reduce this cost to zero, thanks to the handy technology it employs that allows you to drink the tap water safely no matter where in the world you are.

#6 Miscellaneous Expenses

And finally, when it comes to your Kenya travel costs, you’ve got to factor in all those other incidental expenses like laundry (once a week should do it) and possibly a SIM and data package too.

Luckily, both these things are very cheap and readily available!

An average laundry load cost me around $4 USD and getting a tourist SIM with loads of data is possible in Kenya for around $10 USD.

I used Safaricom and found them excellent.

And don’t forget a bit of extra money for souvenir buying!

This is East Africa after all!

So…. How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Kenya?

And with all that in mind, I’m going to put my neck out here and say that you could probably travel Kenya on an average budget of around $70-110 USD a day at the very bottom end.

Some days will be less of course, but when you undertake tours, safari drives and activities (as you definitely should!), these will bump up the overall spend.

As I mentioned at the start of this article, I’m delighted to say my travel budget in Kenya was the lowest of any of the other East Africa countries I travelled at a similar time, and that’s largely because I spent longer in Kenya and didn’t move as much.

It’s also due to the fact that Rwanda is overall a more expensive country to travel, Uganda offers gorilla trekking , which is a very large spend in and of itself, and Tanzania transport costs more if you’re going to Zanzibar or up Kilimanjaro.

That said, the 1 return domestic flight I took in Kenya did hike up my budget, but luckily my saviour was the food budget, which was incredibly low as were the reasonable local bus rides and hostel rooms I opted for.

Also avoiding tours at the coast in Kenya and instead travelling Diana, Kilifi and Mombasa independently, helped keep my costs low.

I avoided Lamu for this reason too – it’s another set of expensive flights – but I’d def head there if I had the chance again!

I think you should spend at least 2 weeks in Kenya, as this allows you to see some of the best parts of this huge country in a limited time frame.

Here’s what an example budget for this timeframe might look like…

• Total Accommodation (private hostel rooms) x8 nights when not on tours = $240 USD
• Total Transport Spend (1x return domestic flight, bus, matatu and Uber rides) = $200 USD
• Total Tours and Activities (3 day Masai Mara trip & 3 day Hells Gate, Lake Naivasha & Nakuru trip with camping) = $700 USD
• Total Entrance Fees & Guides = n/a (included in tour prices)
• Total Food and Drink = $140 USD
• Other Expenses = $30 USD

Total 14 Day Trip cost= $1300 USD

Please remember this is based on a budget traveller, where much of the food, accommodation and transport costs are built into the tours and will vary wildly depending how many activities you do, whether you stay in dorms or private rooms and how much you eat, drink and shop!

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

So there it is, my guide on how much it costs to travel Kenya and what budget-saving tips you can use to keep the expenses down here.

Did my budget breakdown surprise you too?

Was it more or less expensive than you imagined?

Let me know your thoughts 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

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• Travel Planning Guide

The Best Budget Safaris in Kenya

Seeking an extraordinary safari experience? We've meticulously examined various safari tours in Kenya from highly-rated companies, taking into account important criteria such as price, guest ratings, service, destinations, and activities. The result? A handpicked selection of the finest safaris in Kenya that will immerse you in nature's wonders and create cherished memories. So, pick out one of the safaris below for an epic journey into the wilderness, as we're confident it will be fantastic.

• The Gorilla Trek 22 Days, $1860.94
• Nairobi To Kigali (13 Days) Gorillas & Gameparks 13 Days, $1273.27
• Budget Mombasa Amboseli Jeep Safari Tour (3-Day) 3 Days, $215.00

What are budget and low-cost safaris like in Kenya?

Here are the important factors:

• 26 trip options analyzed
• $136 average price per day (USD)
• 2 to 22 days in length
• 4.59 of 5 average rating
• 24 people or less on average

Curious about the diverse range of budget safaris? Prepare to be amazed by the array of options available to suit every traveler's preferences. It comes as no surprise that visitors adore these tours, given their exceptional average guest rating of 4.59 out of 5 stars. When it comes to group sizes, the average maximum capacity stands at 24 people, allowing for a comfortable and sociable experience. The shortest tour is 2 days, while the longest is 22 days. And for physical activity , you can choose between relaxing, moderate, and easy, with most of them being relaxing. With a comprehensive analysis encompassing 26 budget safaris, you can rest assured that Kenya has something tailored to your interests and preferences, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best Budget Safaris in Kenya

The gorilla trek.

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for budget safaris.
• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

Set off on an extraordinary journey, visiting Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, that has been awarded a 4.6 out of 5 stars by previous guests. And since the priority is on overlanding, wildlife, and safaris, this tour is a great choice. Guests on this trip get to partake in camping and gorilla trekking. With a duration of 22 days, this safari adventure offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 28 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to travelers from 18 to 80 years old. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 13 destinations, featuring Kampala, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kabale, and Lake Bunyonyi. Beginning in beautiful Nairobi, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in Kigali. Brought to you by Absolute Africa , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $104 per day.

• Overland Truck
• Gorilla Trekking

Nairobi To Kigali (13 Days) Gorillas & Gameparks

With this option you can experience an unparalleled trip for 13 unforgettable days, visiting Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. It ensures an intimate group setting with 24 participants at most. Uncover the beauty of 8 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru, Jinja, and Kampala. Nairobi will mark the start of your journey, while Kigali will serve as its final destination. Oasis Overland , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests travelers from 18 to 69 years old. Rest assured, this trip is all about overlanding, wildlife, and safaris, guaranteeing an unforgettable adventure. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $135 per day.

Budget Mombasa Amboseli Jeep Safari Tour (3-Day)

This fantastic trip has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. Mombasa will be both the start and end of your journey. This extraordinary adventure also revolves around wildlife, family-friendly activities, and safaris. Lasting 3 days, the maximum group size is 21 people, and it's good for travelers from 3 to 80 years old. Organized by Bonvoyage Kenya Safaris , this is a great deal because it's only $72 per day.

3 Days, 2 Nights Masai Mara Group Joining Safari From Nairobi with Complimentary Airport Pickup.

With a stellar 4.6 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary trip is the perfect choice. This terrific trip also highights wildlife, family-friendly activities, and safaris. Your adventure starts and ends in Nairobi. Spanning across 3 days, the trip accommodates 20 individuals, and is suitable for travelers from 1 to 90 years old. Offered by Perfect Wilderness Tours And Safaris , this remarkable trip is priced at just $70 per day. Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

Budget Luxury Masai Mara Safari in Kenya (in A Private JEEP with A FREE NIGHT at Nairobi Hotel)

This exceptional trip offering by Bonvoyage Kenya Safaris has received a 4.6 out of 5 rating. On this 3-day journey you can unwind while also making new memories. Nairobi will be the beginning and end of your trip. With a group size of 70 people, it's suitable for travelers from 3 to 80 years old. You're in for an epic adventure with a strong emphasis on wildlife, family-friendly activities, and safaris. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $118 per day.

• Great Migration

Kenya & Tanzania

Check out this safari trip that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 4.3 out of 5 rating, visiting Kenya and Tanzania. Explore 10 incredible locations on this trip, including Marangu, Dar es Salaam, Lake Nakuru, and Lake Naivasha. Nairobi marks the starting point, while Zanzibar stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. You'll love the emphasis on overlanding, wildlife, and safaris, too. Spanning across 20 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 28 participants, and it's great for travelers from 18 to 80 years old. Brought to you by the renowned Absolute Africa , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $113 per day - an unbeatable value.

Kenya Wildlife Safari

This 8-day safari adventure is ideal for travelers from 15 and up. And priced at only $180 per day, it's a great value, too. With an emphasis on wildlife and safaris, you know you'll have an amazing adventure. Discover a journey that spans 4 destinations, with notable stops in Lake Nakuru National Park and Lake Naivasha. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Nairobi. It's offered by Intrepid Travel , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

3 Day Amboseli Adventure All Inclusive

Priced at just $167 per day, this terrific 3-day journey is ideal for travelers from 3 to 75 years old. Nairobi kicks off your expedition, serving as both the starting and finishing point. Organized by the reputable Smile view Kenya tours and travel , this is one of the best tours on this list.

Nairobi To Nairobi (19 Days) Gorillas & Gameparks

Check out this incredible safari trip that has received a 4.5 out of 5 rating from previous guests, visiting Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. Rest assured, this trip is all about overlanding and safaris, guaranteeing an unforgettable adventure. With a duration of 19 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 24 people, and is good for travelers from 18 to 69 years old. With 9 destinations to explore, you'll get the chance to see Lake Bunyonyi, Kigali, Jinja, and Lake Naivasha, and more. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Nairobi. This fantastic option, organized by Oasis Overland , presents an unbeatable value at just $123 per day.

Nairobi to Zanzibar: Serengeti & Sunsets

• On Sale: 25% Off See Prices

Spanning over 10 days, this trip, visiting Kenya and Tanzania, has a maximum size of 20 individuals. Welcoming travelers from 18 to 39 years old, it is organized by G Adventures , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. Along the way, this journey encompasses 8 destinations, including Serengeti National Park, Mto Wa Mbu, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar. Beginning in beautiful Nairobi, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in Jambiani. Available at an unbeatable price of only $176 per day, this option also has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from previous guests. It's currently on a special discounted offer.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Kenya , The Best Wildlife Tours to Kenya , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Kenya , The Best 10-Day Tours in Kenya , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Kenya , The Best 3-Day Tours in Kenya , The Best 2-Week Tours in Kenya , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Kenya , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Kenya , The Best Overlanding Trips in Kenya , The Best Adventure Tours to Kenya , The Best Eco Tours in Kenya , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Kenya , The Best Cultural Tours in Kenya , The Tours for Animal Lovers in Kenya , The Best Camping Tours in Kenya , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Kenya , The Best Safaris in Kenya , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Kenya , The Best Luxury Tours to Kenya , The Best Budget Tours to Kenya , The Best Tours for Seniors to Kenya , or The Best G Adventures Tours to Kenya for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Nairobi , The Best 3-Day Tours from Mombasa , The Best 3-Day Tours from Maasai Mara National Reserve , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Nairobi , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Mombasa , The Best 10-Day Tours from Nairobi , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Nairobi for more package tour options.

How much do budget safaris in Kenya cost?

Travelers to Kenya will have a large number of terrific options for budget safaris at a variety of great prices. The price of budget safaris here can vary by type, destinations, length, and travel style. Based on thorough data from 26 budget safaris, their average daily price is a very reasonable $136 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Kenya .

And for more information on Kenya, see Kenya Travel Costs and Kenya Hotel Costs .

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• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

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 .

Similar Posts

Kenyan tribes: everything you need to know before you travel to kenya, 13 mindblowing things you need to know about the maasai tribe | kenya, 20 awesome things to do in nairobi, kenya, the most beautiful beaches in kenya.

Budget travel

Kenya is a fantastic country to travel to be it individually or as a group. It not only consists of vast savannah plains with amazing wildlife but also luxury and affordable accommodation that you can relax, unwind and enjoy during your stay. Most of us would love and wish to come for an African safari. Or wouldn’t we? Of all the African countries, Kenya is perhaps the best country to do it in, because Kenya is home to the world’s famous Maasai Mara Game Reserve among other premium parks like Amboseli National Park, Lake Nakuru National Park, Tsavo National Parks, and Samburu National Reserve. Many travelers (especially the budget ones) get very disappointed when they realize how expensive it can be, but luckily Explorer Kenya Tours & Travel also accommodates lower budget backpackers. A 3 day or more safari adventure to this beautiful reserve would be just perfect for you. While choosing this budget travel, you need to consider some factors such as: 1) Type of accommodation You don’t have to stay at the most expensive hotel just because you want to fit in or are afraid to look cheap. If you are on a budget, there are excellent hotels that don’t charge outrageous prices. Every national park has dozens of different campsites that accommodate guests on a budget some located inside and others outside the park and reserves. Examples of affordable lodges and camps in each park and reserve Masai Mara National Reserve – Mara Sidai Camp or similar Amboseli National Reserve – We4Kenya Guesthouse or similar Tsavo East National Park – Kiboko Camp Samburu National Reserve – Samburu Riverside Camp or similar Lake Nakuru National Park – Hotel Chester or similar Nairobi – Kahama Hotel or similar Naivasha – Peppercorn Holiday Resort or similar Coast – Sun n Sand or Similar

2) Camping Kenya has the most beautiful landscapes and so much to offer camping lovers. There are so many places you can go camping at a low price. Camping is a good way of connecting with nature. 3) Time of Travel Traveling during holidays and special days will mean you have to spend a little bit more than what you would have paid on the regular days, commonly referred to as low seasons. For instance, in December, valentines period and during the migration it will be more expensive unlike between March to May hence this will be the best time for you to travel. 4) Traveling in groups Traveling in groups will save you more than when traveling alone. At Explorer Kenya, we offer scheduled safari which will not only help you save but also get to meet and mingle with new people. This will be an exciting and memorable trip for you. 5) Booking in advance Booking with Explorer Kenya In advance has its own advantages for we offer a discounted price for those who book earlier. For instance, if you are planning to travel during peak season , booking in advance before the D-day approaches will mean you get to pay less than those who will book during that period.

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How to Travel Around Kenya on a Budget

Are you one of those people who love traveling but just can’t seem to due to financial constraints? Well, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few secrets that can take you around the country even on a tight budget.

When it comes to traveling, three things you should consider: travel means, accommodation and food costs. Kenya is one of the most beautiful countries to traverse, these few tips will see the wanderlust in your kick off

Travel by road

Instead of taking that expensive return flight down to the Coastal Region of Kenya why not opt to travel by bus or better yet drive. This might take longer than anticipated but this is one of the major ways to save your coins plus you get to explore more and marvel at how beautiful Kenya is. This way you get to use the money you would have paid for a flight to offset other costs.

Consider traveling during the low season

Traveling over the holiday season is honestly expensive since most places hike their accommodation costs due to the high number of tourists visiting certain places. Most hotels will charge up-to twice the normal prices compared to the low season when demand is low. Do your research and travel when places are less crowded, traveling during the low season is honestly better since you even get to enjoy better services.

Book in advance

Try plan your itinerary and book your accommodation and travel means in advance, most places will offer great discounts for clients who book in advance. Last minute rushes might mean you dig a little deeper into your pocket.

Skip that resort and opt for a hostel, airbnb or camping

Camping or staying in a hostel can cut accommodation costs by half compared to staying in expensive resorts. Most people think camping means sleeping in the cold, contrary to that sleeping in a tent might actually turn out to be more exciting. Imaging going to the Mara or Naivasha and sleeping out in tents and waking up to the most beautiful views and wildlife walking around your camping site. Hostels provide comfortable beds though one would have to share a room with several people.

Travel in groups

Traveling with a group of friend is not only a fun way of spending your vacation but you get to share costs among yourselves.

Do day trips

Why not join that group of friends, do hiking at Mt. Longonot, Visit Hells Gate or Ole Pejeta for a few hours and drive back to Nairobi in the evening? Day trips are popular and one gets to meet new people and interact.

Prepare your own meals

Dining at restaurants is way expensive compared to buying and cooking your own food. Find local grocery places, shop for food you would need and prepare your food. Most accommodation places like Airbnb provide fully fitted kitchens where you can take turns to prepare meals.

Remember, traveling does not mean having to spend thousands just to have a good time. Kenya is one of the cheapest countries to explore, follow these tips and save your coins!

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Kenya Safari Travel Guide

• Browse 88 Kenya tours
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We have tours of Kenya that depart from:

The Kenya safari experience is packed with unforgettable destinations and African adventures: Masai Mara, the Great Migration, Amboseli, Samburu, Tsavo, incredible beaches, Great Rift Valley lakes, the Maasai tribe, and more.

Kenya consistently ranks as one of the very best safari destinations in Africa. This is where African safaris were born. 

The fact that Kenya remains one of Africa's best safari destinations is down to a combination of factors. Excellent tourism infrastructure, classic African landscapes, open plains and mountain vistas, abundant herds of game, frequent Big 5 sightings, amazing beaches and its proximity to other top African safari destinations (Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda), and a mild climate all add to Kenya’s massive appeal.

Most Kenya safari bucket lists start with the great wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara National Reserve. Kenya has a lot more to offer though, from cultural to beach and wildlife highlights. These include experiencing the authentic culture of the Maasai people, seeing big bull elephants in Amboseli, spotting the Samburu Special 5 and so much more. Experience Swahili cuisine, a mixed infusion of European, Indian and African flavours, be thrilled by close encounters with Samburu’s leopards, enjoy some much-needed R&R on a tropical beach, and you are starting to get a feel for this amazing African destination.

Kenya has an African wildlife safari experience for everyone. From family safaris with child-friendly activities to secluded romantic getaways for newlyweds or young lovers. From luxury colonial-style lodges to boutique hotels or budget bush camps with swimming pools, Kenya Safaris aim to please all kinds of visitors. High standards of service and welcoming culture will make your Kenya safari vacation memorable for all the right reasons.

Kenya Safari Highlights

- The Masai Mara National Reserve – Wildebeest crossing the Mara River in the great migration spectacle.

- Amboseli National Park – Big game on open plains set against the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

- Samburu National Reserve - Unusual wildlife, the Samburu Special 5.

- Mount Kenya – Hike Africa's second-highest peak.

- Lamu Archipelago and Kenya Beaches – relax and unwind with white sand, clear turquoise water, and tropical Indian Ocean vibes.

- Lake Nakuru – A birders' paradise with over 450 bird species including greater and lesser flamingos.

- Nairobi National Park – African safari a stone's throw from downtown Nairobi.

Best Places to Visit in Kenya

In the Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Samburu national parks, Kenya has some of the most famous African safari destinations. Each of these epic African safari experiences delivers Big 5 game viewing with its own unique flavour.

Top Kenya Safari Destination: Masai Mara

The Masai Mara National Reserve  is undoubtedly Kenya’s most famous Big 5 safari destination. Safari enthusiasts flock to the Masai Mara every year to experience first-hand the wide open plains and wildlife extravaganza that unfolds during the Great Wildebeest Migration. Though most people visit Masai Mara for the Great Migration, game viewing is excellent all year round. The Masai Mara offers excellent Big 5 game viewing–elephants, lions, leopards, and buffalos are almost guaranteed on every safari while rhinos are more elusive. There are plenty of resident antelope like eland, topi, reedbuck, impala, Thompson's gazelle as well as Masai giraffe, cheetah, and a host of other animals. The Masai Mara is particularly famous for its high concentration of lions as well as cheetahs and leopards. The January- February calving season is an excellent time to see these predators in action. 

The highlight of any Kenya safari in Masai Mara National Reserve is the arrival of the massive herds of wildebeest and zebra between August and November. The mega herds of wildebeest, zebra, and Thompson's gazelles arrive as part of the Great Migration between the Serengeti and the Masai Mara. Lucky safari adventurers will get to witness the adrenaline-fuelled crossing of the Mara River, a life-and-death drama that plays out between the wildebeest and hungry crocodiles that lie in wait.

*For something extra special, experience the splendour of the Masai Mara plains and the huge herds from a bird’s eye perspective. Take an early morning hot air balloon ride and experience the exhilaration of an air-born safari journey gliding above the Masai Mara.

Be warned: the Masai Mara attracts safari enthusiasts from around the world and can get very congested. Booking in advance for the great migration is essential. A great way to avoid the safari crowds is to head to the Masai Mara Conservancies and explore from there.

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Best Kenya National Parks & Wildlife

While the Masai Mara is undoubtedly the jewel in Kenya's safari crown, there is a multitude of other world-class game reserves that are definitely worth a visit.

Amboseli National Park , in addition to an abundance of game including lions, elephants, and buffaloes, is world-famous for the iconic views of the world’s tallest free-standing mountain: Mt Kilimanjaro. Enjoy a classic African safari with a plethora of wildlife; gazelles, zebras, giraffes, big cats, hyenas, and more. Amboseli is also renowned for its high density of African elephants and the longest ongoing study of elephants anywhere in Africa.

Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Park

Tsavo National Parks  together form the largest conservation area anywhere in Kenya. Although they support significant numbers of all the Big 5, Tsavo East and West are considerably less popular than the Masai Mara and Amboseli. This is due to the dense acacia woodland that can make animals hard to spot. Tsavo West is a geographical treat with jagged volcanic outcrops, ancient lava flows, and acacia woodland overshadowed by a distant Kilimanjaro on the southwest horizon. Tsavo East is larger and less developed and the red-earth plains are likened more to Kenya's arid north. Both parks are popular with repeat safari enthusiasts for their unspoiled African wilderness atmosphere.

Samburu, Buffalo Springs, and Shaba National Reserve

Situated northeast of Mt. Kenya, these three game reserves are characteristic of Kenya's more arid, rugged desert scrub and form part of the much broader Ewaso ecosystem. This is the home of the Samburu people and the Samburu Special 5: Beisa oryx; reticulated giraffe; Somali ostrich; Grevy’s zebra and the gerenuk. Samburu National Reserve  is popular with seasoned safari goers who come for the dramatic scenery and to tick the Samburu Special off their bucket list. In addition to the special five, Samburu, Buffalo Springs, and the little-visited Shaba National Reserve are home to a long list of birds that are restricted to Kenya's north, Somalia, and Ethiopia making them a mecca for serious birdwatchers.

Mount Meru National Park

Meru National Park, home of Elsa the lioness of Born Free fame, Meru is becoming one of Kenya's sought-after safari destinations. A transitional zone between the moist central highlands and the arid north, Meru is a lush, well-watered savannah with plenty of wildlife. Comparatively unknown Meru National Park is a fantastic Big 5 safari destination. In addition to the Big 5, Meru is home to large herds of buffaloes, reticulated giraffes, Beisa oryxes, lesser kudus, and gerenuks. 

The Laikipia Plateau

Formerly a colonial-era livestock ranching district, the Laikipia Plateau has become one of East Africa's most exclusive wildlife destinations. The private conservancies cater mostly to the high-end safari market. Made up of numerous private and community-owned sanctuaries, Laikipia is now home to Kenya's second-largest conservancy area at over 9,500 sq km. Like Meru National Park, Laikipia is a transitional habitat between the moist highlands and the arid north. It is home to Ol Pejeta, Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, and the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. 

Lake Nakuru National Park - Birder's Delight

Northwest of Nairobi, Lake Nakuru is famous for the pink flamingos that sometimes flock there. Covering 180 km² of transitional savannah vegetation, Lake Nakuru National Park supports the illusive black and bold white rhino and regulars like warthog, buffalo, reedbuck, waterbuck, and for the lucky, leopards too. Lake Nakuru’s true calling, however, is 450 resident bird species that make this national park a birders' paradise.

See the best places for birding in our Kenya Birding Safari Guide

Lake Naivasha & Hell's Gate National Park

The Rift Valley's highest lake,  Lake Naivasha  is home to a variety of birds, hippos, and numerous other wildlife. The lake is close to Elsamere, where you can relax in the garden of 'Born Free' author Joy Adamson. Nearby Hell’s Gate is a wonder of geological activity where you can explore the gorge on foot or cycle alongside giraffes, wildebeest, and antelopes.

Mount Kenya National Park and the Aberdares

Mount Kenya is the second-highest mountain in Africa at 5,199m. Lushly vegetated and densely populated, Kenya's central highlands are a stark contrast to the rest of the country. Mount Kenya is linked to the more westerly Aberdare Range, both of which are protected within national parks. Home to Afro-montane forests and Afro-alpine moorland, the area hosts Big 5 safari animals alongside forest specialists like Sykes and colobus monkeys and some endemic bird species. Less crowded and more affordable, Mount Kenya draws hikers from around the world to summit Point Lenana at 4,985m. 

Top Kenya Attractions

• The Lamu Archipelago – Made up of Lamu, Manda, Pate, Kiwayu, and Manda Toto islands, the Lamu Archipelago is the perfect safari add-on or island break. Just off Kenya’s northeast coast, these beautiful islands are full of surprises. Culturally significant with African and Indian Ocean influences, Lamu offers excellent diving and snorkelling with whale sharks, manta rays, sharks, dolphins, and turtles. Soak up the unspoiled beauty on a sunset dhow cruise.
• Unique cultures – Home of the famous Maasai and Samburu people, Kenya is also an Indian Ocean melting pot of African, Asian, and Islamic cultures. 
• Giraffe House –  This historic manor house is today one of Kenya’s most famous boutique hotels. The star of the show is a resident herd of Rothschild’s giraffes who often share breakfast with patrons. The results? One of the most Instagrammable moments in Africa.
• Sheldrick Wildlife Trust – Rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned baby elephants is what they do. You can visit their Nairobi elephant nursery and see how this world-renowned organization facilitates the rescue, rehabilitation, release, and re-integration of these incredible animals back into the wild.
• Nairobi National Park – Not the biggest or flashiest of game parks, Nairobi National Park presents the most surreal safari experience. Endangered black rhinos, lions, leopards, giraffes, and a host of other African wildlife, all against the backdrop of East Africa’s busiest metropolitan area, Nairobi.

Kenyan Cities

Nairobi City often takes travellers by surprise. The gateway to East Africa's safari destinations, Nairobi is East Africa’s most cosmopolitan city. Exciting nightlife, authentic East African food, bustling café culture, museums, and some classic out-of-Africa experiences to boot. Visit the National Museum to delve deeper into Kenya’s fascinating past, indulge in some shopping, experience Kenya’s varied culinary traditions, and visit any or all of the out-of-Africa novelty stops - Giraffe Manor, the Sheldrick Wildlife Sanctuary or Nairobi National Park.

See  Best Things to Do in Nairobi  or Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, Kenya

The centre of Indian Ocean trade for thousands of years, Mombasa has an often overlooked cultural significance. A melting pot of both language and culture, Mombasa has a charm that evokes Arabian Nights. Visit the old town and hear the Arabic call to prayer, listen to the waves crashing against the coral shore below Fort Jesus, and watch the dhows, bound for  Zanzibar, slip timelessly over the horizon.

Best Time to Visit Kenya on Safari

When to go on safari in Kenya depends on where you are going and what you want to do.

June to October is the dry season, and it’s not too hot during the day, this is considered the best time to go for the classic “out-of-Africa” safari experience. This is a good time to visit any safari destination in Kenya. The game is easy to spot and the great migration in the Masai Mara is unforgettable.

Kenya safari destinations Amboseli, Tsavo East, and West, Lake Nakuru, and Samburu are also good from January to March – mild weather and mostly dry conditions mean it’s an excellent time for game viewing.

Kenya’s two rainy seasons are between mid-March and June and between November and December. This is off-peak and though a little damp at times is worth considering to avoid the high-season tourists.

With that said Kenya is considered to be an all-year safari destination. The climate is relatively mild and the Indian Ocean coastline is mostly hot and humid. These factors combined make Kenya a great bush and beach safari destination.

For more details, see  The Best Time to Visit Kenya  and The Best Time to Visit Masai Mara  

Kenya Weather & Climate

Kenya's climate is strongly influenced by altitude and the monsoon winds that blow from the Indian Ocean. The monsoon dictates Kenya's two rainy seasons. From November to March hot monsoon winds blow in from the Persian Gulf and cooler winds from the south blow from April to October.

The cooler 'kusi' monsoon brings the heaviest rains making April to June the 'long rain' season and late June to October cooler with less rain. The 'short rains' of November and December give way to the dry season from December to March.

Kenya's geography rises from sea level to over 5,000ft (1,500m) in Nairobi. Areas with higher altitudes can get very cool at night. Along the coast, temperatures seldom drop below 20°C even at night. But in Nairobi, it is not uncommon for the mercury to drop to 10°C at night in July and August even when daytime temperatures are up in the 20°C.

High-altitude safaris in places like the Masai Mara, Laikipia, and Samburu follow a similar pattern. Early morning game drives can get very chilly. It warms up quickly during the day but cools again in the evening. Lower altitude safaris, Amboseli, Meru, and Tsavo East and West are a little warmer without the high-altitude nip in the early morning and evening air.

During the dry season from June to October, daytime temperatures range from around 23°C/73°F at higher altitudes, like the Masai Mara, and 28°C/82°F along the coast. The coldest months are June to October. Early morning temperatures at higher altitudes can be as low as 10°C/50°F.

The wet-season temperatures, from November to May, range between 24°C/75°F and 27°C/81°F at higher altitudes and  30°C/86°F at lower altitudes.

Generally speaking, Kenya’s climate is ideal for an African safari experience. The hot and humid coastline is complemented by a temperate inland climate, cooler highlands, and a dry north and northeast.

How Much Does a Kenya Safari Cost?

Kenya has a broad range of safaris to suit just about any budget, from high-end luxury to budget accommodations and family-friendly safari experiences. How much a Kenyan safari costs will also depend on where and when you want to go.

High season to see the Mara River crossing will come at a premium whereas travelling during low season in the wet months will be significantly cheaper. There are other factors too like the size of your group, your time constraints, and the distances that you are expecting to travel. Below is a rough guide to how much a Kenya safari could cost per person per night. These prices INCLUDE park fees, accommodation, meals on safari, safari transport, and airport transfers. They DO NOT include camp extras like alcoholic beverages, telephone, tips, laundry or international flights to East Africa, visas, and related fees. 

Please note that this is a ROUGH price guide per night for All-Inclusive safaris.

• Peak Season $400 – $600 p/p per night
• Mid-Season $399 – $400 p/p  per night
• Low Season $200 – $399 p/p per night

For more about Kenya safari costs see  How Much Does a Kenya Safari Cost?

How to Get to Kenya

Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) is the busiest transport hub in East Africa. Located 11 miles/18 km from Nairobi’s central business district, Jomo Kenyatta is serviced by airlines from around the world. All Kenyan safaris will start here making Jomo Kenyatta the gateway to Kenya. Kenya’s national flag carrier is Kenya Airways.

South of Nairobi, close to Nairobi National Park and 15 km/9 miles from Jomo Kenyatta, is Wilson Airport (WIL). Many domestic carriers are running daily flights to popular destinations all over Kenya. Kenya Fly-in safaris to the Masai Mara and Amboseli as well as other destinations all depart from Wilson. Wilson Airport also does domestic flights to Mombasa and the Lamu Archipelago.

Be sure to leave at least 90 minutes to transit between the two.

Getting Around: Transport in Kenya

Most people choose to take a light air-craft short hop to their Kenyan safari destination. These routes, like Nairobi to Masai Mara, for example, are well-serviced by local carriers. It is by far the safest and quickest way to travel and allows you to spend the most time possible in the reserve and on safari.

Be aware that the baggage allowance for these flights is 15kg.

Once you arrive you will be collected by your safari lodge making your safari adventure easy and stress-free. Safari vehicles in Kenya generally fall into two categories; safari tour minibuses or 4x4 safari jeeps.

Safari tour vans are more budget-friendly and seat around 7 people. They come standard with pop-up game viewing roofs and sliding windows, a UHF radio for relaying and receiving game spotting info, and a cooler box. The safari vans lack the clearance of a 4x4 and there are luggage restrictions. These safari tour vans are often used for road transfers all around the country.

The safari jeeps are usually Toyota Landcruisers or less commonly Landrovers. These vehicles also seat around 7 people and have luggage restrictions but they do have 4x4 capabilities. If you are going to one of the private conservancies or lodges, you are likely to be in a safari jeep. Safari jeeps can be either closed or open-sided but will also have pop-up roofs, UHF radios, and cooler boxes.

Public transport on buses, trains, or taxis can take a long time and many holidaymakers prefer the ease of including transport in their safari package.

Kenya Travel Times & Distances

Kenyan roads are generally well-maintained. There are plenty of travel options from rental cars and shuttle buses to trains. However, considering the distances involved between safari destinations and the availability of short-hop flights, flying is highly recommended.

Below is a list of travel distances, flight times, and how long road journeys take.

• Nairobi to the Masai Mara 253km/157mi:

There are more than a few different options for getting to the Masai Mara from Nairobi. The 253km will take you just under 5 hours by car or, a direct flight from Nairobi Wilson (WIL) to the reserve airport (OLX), just under an hour. The bus ride, while significantly cheaper than flying will take about 15 hours.

• Nairobi to Amboseli 160km/99mi:

A flight from Nairobi Wilson to Amboseli (ASV) averages about 50 minutes. The 160km road journey by car, bus, or train combination will take over 4 hours.

• Nairobi to Mt Kenya 137km/85mi:

Fly Nairobi Wilson (WIL) to Nanyuki (NYK) in about 2.5 hours (including road transfer times), and train travel takes around 6.5 hours.

• Nairobi to Mombasa 441km/274mi:

There is a direct flight from Nairobi (NBO) to Mombasa (MBA) which takes around an hour and a half. You can make an epic bus journey which will take over 8 hours.

• Nairobi to Lamu 467km/290mi:

Flying from Nairobi Wilson (WIL) to Lamu (LAU) takes around 1.5 hours. There are other options for driving, bus, and train combinations which can take between 12 and 15 hours.

• Nairobi to Samburu 292.9 km/ 181mi:

There are no direct flights to Samburu National Reserve. Driving will take almost 14 hours. The quickest way to get to Samburu is to fly to Nanyuki (NYK) and then drive the remaining distance, all-in this will take around 5 hours.

What to Wear on Safari in Kenya

When packing for your Kenyan safari, consider what time of year you are visiting, where you are going, and what the luggage restrictions are on your chosen transport. Many hotels and lodges do have laundry services to help you along the way.

Kenya in general is casual but conservative. Aside from the occasional smart casual dress code for certain restaurants and hotels, jeans and t-shirts are acceptable with a little bit of extra modesty around cultural centres and places of worship.

When packing for your Kenyan safari, remember that your luggage will be restricted to 15kg for a fly-in safari. Paying careful attention to your packing list of lightweight but sensible is key. The way to think about a safari packing list is in layers.

Early morning game drives in open vehicles can be chilly, to begin with. You will need a warm hat and perhaps even gloves and a scarf if you are prone to cold. A lightweight puffer jacket or fleece with a hard or soft shell should do the trick. Things do warm up pretty quickly so it's important to be able to shed your jacket and have something lightweight and cool underneath. A cool shirt that is breathable is essential. Zip-off trousers can easily convert from trousers to shorts leaving you cool and comfortable. When evening falls and you head out on a game drive, think of this process in reverse.

Colourwise, keep your palette to natural hues–beige, greens, browns, and khakis are best. You want to avoid black, white, and anything loud. White gets grubby very quickly, black gets very hot and attracts mosquitoes at night, and loud colours like bright yellow or red can agitate animals and attract bees.

Closed comfortable shoes are best for your days on safari and a good pair of sneakers or trainers are perfect. Unless you plan on doing any serious hiking, hiking boots are unnecessary. For time spent in camps and lodges, a pair of flip-flops (slip-slops) can be a comfortable addition.

Month-by-Month Kenya Safari Guide

Kenya has two peak seasons, January to March and again from July to September. June, October, November, and December are considered shoulder seasons while April and May are low seasons.

Our month-by-month is a rough guide and while we try to be as accurate as possible, shifting weather patterns do make the weather difficult to predict. Ditto the movements of wild animals that follow their own rhythms.

January - Excellent game viewing, fantastic birdlife, a great time for marine life

January has less (although unpredictable) rain. Most safari destinations have excellent game viewing as this is the start of the calving season and January is particularly good for birding as many migratory species are present. On the coast, it is a great time to see whale sharks, manta rays, sharks, dolphins, and turtles. Warm and relatively dry, January is a good time to climb Mount Kenya.

February - Excellent game viewing, fantastic birdlife, a great time for marine life

The explosion of life that started in January continues through February. February is dry and a great time to witness lion prides hunting on the open plains. Birdlife is still prolific and on the coast hot weather makes for an ideal beach break with plenty of interesting marine life.

March - Hot on the coast, long rains begin, and wildlife starts dispersing

If you like the heat and fancy clear water for snorkeling and diving then March is the perfect time for a beach break. Inland the long rains begin. Water quenches the landscape and the game disperses into the thick vegetation making safari game viewing more challenging.

April - Low season, wet but good for dramatic landscapes

April is a "long rain" month. Mostly wet, April is not great for beach holidays or safaris. Although migratory birds have departed and game animals disperse into the lush vegetation, the rain showers can produce some astounding backdrops that are excellent for photography.

May - Drizzly with mud

May is still wet and cool but by this stage, there is more mud. Neither safari nor beach is at its best as May is by far the wettest month. Many bush camps close during May.

June - Good game viewing, Lake Turkana Festival

The long rains come to an end in June. A much drier month, temperatures are still cool but comfortable. Game viewing is good and this is the start of the high season in the Masai Mara which is lush and green, although the great migration has not yet arrived. On the coast, things are wet in June and not good for the beach or marine activities. Further north, the Lake Turkana Festival is a colourful gathering and celebration of traditional communities in the town of Loiyangalani.

July - Best for Big 5 safari wildlife sightings

July in Kenya is pleasant, warm, and dry. Be prepared for cool evenings and mornings, especially in the Masai Mara and Laikipia. The early-bird migrating wildebeest begin to arrive in the Masai Mara and wildlife viewing is excellent. The Beach weather is perfect, cool, and dry. Be prepared for crowds as this is Kenya's safari high season.

August - Great migration Mara River crossing and sublime beach weather

Cool and dry, August is the month for the great migration river crossing. Safaris are excellent with abundant wildlife and good game viewing. The coast is cool and dry making August a fantastic bush/beach safari combo month. August like other high-season months is crowded.

September - Great migration and beach combo

Game viewing in September is excellent. The great migration in the Masai Mara is still in full swing and the big cats are in action. The coast is cool and dry and whales can be seen frolicking off-shore. September is also dry in the highlands making it a good time to climb Mt Kenya.

October - Wildebeest herds and rising temperatures

Hot and dry, October is often the hottest month. Wildebeest herds in Masai Mara mill around the open plains grazing the last of the dry grass, waiting for the next leg of the great migration to begin. This is a good month for photographers. October is a fair beach month, cool and only a little wet.

November - Afternoon thundershowers and spectacular skies

The short summer rains begin in November. Though game viewing is good, expect afternoon rains and spectacular skies. The rains trigger both the final leg of the wildebeest migration and the arrival of migratory birds. November is good for diving and snorkelling but not great for the beach. November is carnival month in Mombasa.

December - Festive season tourists

Not great for a beach holiday, December can be wet with high temperatures. December is good for snorkelling and diving with a variety of marine life. Quieter than peak season with decent game viewing, December can be busy with local festive-season tourists. Bird watching is excellent.

Facts About Kenya

Geography of kenya.

Kenya is home to the classic African safari scenery. Located on the equator in East Africa, Kenya shares borders with Somalia, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Uganda, and Tanzania.

From the tropical Indian Ocean coast in the southeast, the landscape rises from low coastal plains to mountains and plateaus at its centre. The Kenyan highlands are where most people choose to live because of their fertile agricultural lands. The capital Nairobi is here at an altitude of 5,500ft. West of Nairobi the topography descends to the Great Rift Valley . The lowest point is Lake Victoria in the far west. Within the Rift Valley are the deserts of northern Kenya and the famous Lake Turkana.

Northern Kenya offers a more arid landscape with slightly different wildlife in excellent parks like Samburu, Lewa, and Laikipia. The Masai Mara is in the southwest and the iconic views of Kilimanjaro can be seen from Amboseli just south of Nairobi. For tropical white sand beaches head southeast to the Indian Ocean.

Central-south Kenya is the logistics hub and most Kenyan safaris will start here in Nairobi.

A Brief History of Kenya

It is believed that Homo sapiens emerged from the Great Rift Valley about 150,000 years ago. Pre-colonial Kenya was shaped by the migrations of first Cushitic speakers from North Africa and then Bantu speakers from West Africa. East Africa’s proximity to the Arabian peninsula and the weather system of the monsoons meant that Muslim settlements, premised on trade, were established along the coast. Swahili is in fact a mixture of Arabic and Bantu languages. Finally, first, the Portuguese and then the British entered the fray with a new form of global conquest and colonization.

In 1963 under the leadership of Jomo Kenyatta, after years of rebellion, Kenya became independent but remained a member of the Commonwealth. Over the years Kenya’s government has moved from independence to a one-party state and finally became a new democracy holding free and fair elections. Their last election was in 2022 when William Ruto was declared the country's next democratically elected President.

Today, Kenya is East Africa’s largest and most advanced economy. Though predominantly agricultural, Kenya’s service industry, which is dominated by safari tourism, accounts for almost two-thirds of Kenya’s GDP.

Fun Facts About Kenya

• 65% of Kenya’s wildlife is found outside of protected areas. 
• It is a criminal act to hunt any protected species in Kenya.
• The Lamu Archipelago is a car-free destination.
• The Great Rift Valley is 20 million years old.
• Dubbed ‘the running tribe’ for its unbelievable ability to spawn world record-breaking runners, the Kalenjin tribe calls Kenya home.
• The Maasai people are famous for drinking the blood of their cattle.
• While Swahili is Kenya's official language, there are 68 languages spoken throughout the country.

Kenya Tips & Travel FAQs

Is kenya a safe country.

Yes! Kenya is a safe safari destination. While there have been tragic terrorist attacks in the past, most of the problems with al-Shabab are along the Kenya-Somali border. This area is far away from Nairobi and any of the main safari destinations like the Masai Mara, Amboseli, Mt Kenya, Lamu, or Samburu. Because Kenya depends heavily on the safari industry they take your safety, and the security of Kenya, very seriously. In recent years security especially in Nairobi and Jomo Kenyatta has been improved. Most safari packages transit through Nairobi to the game reserves dotted around the country and these destinations are safe.

Travel Health: Vaccines Required for Kenya

Before you travel, visit your local travel clinic and find out well in advance what vaccinations are required. This is a changing landscape and does require planning. Kenya is a malaria region but prophylactics are both effective and accessible in your home country. It is advisable to organize your medication before you travel to remove any anxiety in this regard.

On Safari in Kenya

• Don't forget to pack your preferred insect repellent to keep the bugs at bay.
• The African sun can be severe. A hat and sunscreen are highly recommended and it's always a good idea to stay well-hydrated.
• Your safari guides are trained, and extremely knowledgeable, and their top priority is to keep you safe in the wild. Always listen to their advice about how to behave and what to do while on safari.

Cash & Tipping

Though most of your travel expenses will be inclusive, it's a good idea to take some cash for extra purchases like curios and gifts. US dollars are widely accepted but it is also a good idea to have some Kenyan shillings in supply. Major credit cards are usually accepted at larger establishments and cash can be obtained from ATMs in big cities. Tipping is customary in Kenya. How much is at your discretion and depends on the quality of service and your satisfaction, 10% is a good baseline to work from.

Kenya is conservative and high emphasis is placed on modesty, good manners, and courtesy. Locals are not always happy to be photographed. It is always a good idea to ask for permission before you snap.

Crime is more of a problem in more populated areas like Nairobi and Mombasa for example. By being street-smart and following a few simple rules, there is no reason to let a little petty crime ruin your safari.

• Always be conscious of your belongings.
• Don't leave your baggage unattended either at the airport, train station, hotel lobby or on the beach.
• Try to keep your valuables out of sight.
• Never flash your cash.
• It's a good idea to be on your guard in big cities especially when visiting markets where pickpockets sometimes target tourists.

Travel Tip: Best Practice

It's good practice to have photocopies of all your travel documents tucked away safely in your luggage.

Planning Your Kenya Safari?

Kenya has a lot to choose from. Take a look at a few of our safari tours for Kenya's top safari destinations:

• Masai Mara Safari Packages
• Amboseli Safari Packages
• Tsavo Safari Packages
• Lake Nakuru Safari Packages 
• Lake Naivasha Safari Packages
• Samburu Safari Packages

Wherever your dream safari destination is, talk to one of our expert travel consultants to start planning your Kenya safari today.

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• Delta Mokoro
• Fly-in Safari
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Tours Focused on Kenya

Kenya game parks 4x4 lodge safari.

Trip Style Kenya Budget Safari Packages

12 Day Kenya Wildlife Safari: Masai Mara & Kenya Game Parks

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9 Day Budget Masai Mara & Serengeti Safari - Tanzania & Kenya

Kenya Budget Safari - Masai Mara & Best Parks Lodge Tour

Lake Turkana, Chalbi Desert & Samburu Camping Safari

Kenya: Willem Hondius, Architect of Low Cost Air Travel in Kenya Passes Away

Jambojet founding chief executive Willem Alexandar Hondius has died, Kenya's budget carrier has announced.

Mr Hondius, who led the budget carrier for five years, passed away on April 14 at his home in the Netherlands.

Mr Hondius is celebrated for democratising air travel, making it accessible beyond the affluent, through the establishment of the low-cost carrier in 2013.

With over 30 years of experience in the aviation industry, the Dutch executive held various roles, showcasing his expertise and passion for air travel.

"We are deeply saddened by the loss of our former CEO, Mr Willem Hondius, who passed away on Sunday, April 14, 2024," stated Jambojet.

During his tenure as CEO, Mr Hondius played a key role in laying the foundation of Jambojet in the Kenyan market, setting up the essential framework that shaped the airline's success today.

Jambojet praised his passion for people, customers, and his unwavering vision, which, combined with his extensive industry knowledge, propelled the airline to great heights soon after its inception.

Mr Hondius also contributed as a Non-Executive Director on the Jambojet Board and served as the Chairman of the Strategy Board Committee until his passing.

Before his role at Jambojet, Mr Hondius held the position of General Manager for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines for Eastern Africa, stationed in Nairobi since 2012.

Before that, he served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of Transavia Airlines, a subsidiary of KLM, and was involved with various board memberships.

Read the original article on Business Day Africa .

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