travelling to kenya with a toddler

Subscribe to be the first to get new family travel inspiration Sign up today!

MUMMYTRAVELS

Can you really keep travelling with a child in tow?

Subscribe to be the first to get new family travel inspiration

Tips for visiting Kenya with kids: family guide to Kenya

From my daughter’s first safari experience to the gorgeous Indian Ocean coast, our trip to Kenya instantly became one of our most memorable family travel experiences – and one which took a lot of planning, as my tips for visiting Kenya with kids show.

contains affiliate links *

From working out the essentials to pack for a Kenya family holiday to working out an itinerary (especially with a relatively short time to spend in the country), the practicalities like visas and antimalarial tablets to squeezing in the fun stuff, this isn’t a trip where you can just grab your passport and go.

At least, I certainly wouldn’t have been happy doing that! But every moment of planning was worth it: this really is a fabulous country for families – so if you’re dreaming of an escape to Africa, check out my tips for visiting Kenya with kids in this essential guide.

Contents - click to jump to a section

Before you go

While there’s nothing too complicated to sort out when it comes to the essential Kenya checklist of paperwork, healthcare and money, you do need to get planning a little way in advance.

You can’t get visas on arrival so make sure you apply for yours beforehand – I was told it should take around 48 hours, but to allow around two weeks to be on the safe side. In the end, mine was approved the same day.

The best way to apply is through the official Kenya e-visa portal – just sign up for an account, upload the various documents and photo, pay and you can track your application online. A single entry visa for tourists currently costs $51.

You’ll also need some proof of return flight and the hotel where you’re staying, or a travel itinerary from a tour operator – your standard confirmation should be fine. The application process is the same for both the UK and the US at present, as well as most European countries.

Children under 16 from these countries do not need to have a visa (though you will need to add their details to your application).

Make sure you print the visa out to show at flight check-in and on arrival in Kenya.

Vaccinations/Malaria

Check an official site like FitForTravel for the latest information on vaccinations required, but as well as the usual course recommended for life in the UK, you’re advised to ensure your vaccinations for Diphtheria, Hepatitis A and Tetanus are up to date or arrange a booster jab.

A yellow fever certificate isn’t needed unless you’re coming from a country where it’s prevalent.

You’ll also need anti-malarial tablets if you’re visiting any part of the country outside Nairobi (and its immediate surroundings).

During our visit, there was a choice of three different antimalarials which were suitable, but always check the latest advice. We tend to take Malarone (Atovaquone/Proguanil) as it has the shortest course and often fewer side effects – although in the interests of full disclosure, I did have more problems this time for some reason.

Despite this, I strongly strongly recommend you do always take antimalarial tablets – malaria itself is significantly worse, and mosquito repellent/nets/long sleeves alone are not enough

One recommendation is to take the tablet with a high-fat meal (or eg dairy products) and do take them at the same time each day.

There is also a paediatric option, with the dosage depending on your child’s weight. If, like my daughter, your kids are not fans of tablets, it’s well worth taking something to disguise the small tablet.

We packed a small tub of Biscoff spread (which has the advantage of completely hiding the crushed tablets, as well as tasting nice!) – I also added a couple of teaspoons to crush the tablets up. These did get queried at the airport X-ray of one internal flight (although not for any of the others) so better to keep those in hold luggage.

Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and tourist areas, but it’s still well worth having some cash.

US dollars are also widely accepted so it’s a good idea to bring some with you – there is also an ATM to withdraw dollars at Jomo Kenyatta international airport in Nairobi, although as they’re easy to get in advance, you can tick one thing off the list before arrival.

It’s also a good plan to have some Kenyan Shillings for during your trip. While you can get these outside Kenya, they’re not as easily available and the exchange rate isn’t always great, so it’s simplest to pick these up on arrival.

There’s an ATM at the airport in Nairobi where you can withdraw these before exiting to baggage reclaim. Do check the approximate exchange rate beforehand and don’t try to do as I did after our long flight, and blearily attempt to withdraw 200 shillings… which is around £1.50!

These are useful for tipping, for buying food at Wilson airport if you’re waiting for internal flights, as well as for picking up souvenirs. You’re unlikely to need a huge amount though.

What to pack

While a lot of your family packing list will look the same as for any hot weather/beach holiday, there are a few things to bear in mind when it comes to your packing list for Kenya with kids.

Bear in mind too, that while you might have a generous weight allowance for international flights, you’ll probably be limited when it comes to any internal flights, as well as needing soft-sided bags or cases.

What colours to pack for Kenya ?

Avoid blue (and black) clothing on safari as this can attract tsetse flies – wearing insect repellent should keep them at bay, but better not to give these nasty insects any added incentive to check you out.

Bright colours can also make you more visible to the animals, so muted shades are better – although having said that, our guide wore traditional Maasai patterns including red and vibrant purple as well as neutrals, so don’t feel you have to replace your entire wardrobe. Khaki is always good though.

Pack warm clothes for safari

It sounds counter-intuitive to pack something warm for your Kenya safari – given temperatures hit the mid to high 30s during our stay, we certainly weren’t cold by lunchtime.

But it can be unexpectedly cool first thing, and with our morning game drive starting at around 6.30am – as for most people on a guided safari – a hoody and long trousers came in very handy.

With open windows in our Toyota Landcruiser, there was a breeze as we drove along too, which added an extra chill. Our guide did have ponchos to borrow, but it’s best to bring your own layers.

Check if you need rainwear

There are usually two main rainy seasons during the year in Kenya – the ‘short rains’ for a few weeks during November and December, then the ‘long rains’ from April to early June (sometimes at the end of March as well).

January and February could see occasional showers, although climate change means the weather is tending to get drier rather than wetter at present, and we only had one 10-second shower (quite literally) during our week in Kenya in February.

Travelling during the height of the rainy season is not recommended but if you’re visiting at the start or end of one of the rainy periods, it’s worth packing accordingly with a lightweight raincoat that can be bundled up into a bag.

Take closed toe sandals

When you’re out in the bush, it’s also worth taking closed-toe sandals, especially for after dark in case of any stinging insects or scorpions.

Depending where you stay, this may not be essential – for two days in our tented camp, where we were only venturing to and from the restaurant after dark, we managed fine without.

We love the range of kids sandals from Keen , which includes closed-toe options. Not too hot, they’re still protective and very hard-wearing.

First aid kit & toiletries

I never travel without a first aid kit, and that goes double if you’re planning a safari in Kenya with kids.

While there will be essentials available at tented camps, the options for children will be more limited – and if you discover you need a dose of Calpol, it’s not as if you can nip to the nearest pharmacy.

Check out my complete family and child first aid kit list of essentials to pack

As well as the usual essential medical supplies, you’ll need high-strength insect repellent too.

I like the Jungle Formula range which has an impressive variety, including various maximum strength products and roll-on options (which I often prefer to spray), as well as the Slap It band for kids.

Not all the range is suitable for all ages so do check before buying though. However, the Boots Repel roll-on is fine for children aged 2+ and is also maximum strength – while my daughter was not a fan of putting it on, it did mean she avoided getting many bites.

You’ll also need a high-strength SPF. I’m a big fan of the Ultrasun range and even in the high temperatures, including lots of time in the water, my fair-skinned daughter didn’t burn.

The Ultrasun Kids SPF50 is my go-to product from the range, but this 50ml SPF50 face protection was also great for keeping in hand luggage (just in case!).

Read my full review of the Ultrasun range including Ultrasun Kids SPF50 here

Essentials for a safari in Kenya with kids

While there’s nothing like seeing Africa’s amazing animals in the wild on safari, it does involve a fair bit of driving around and often some waiting.

Our experience exploring the Naboisho Conservancy in the Masai Mara was fabulous as there seemed to be something to see around every corner, but it still pays to have a few essentials to keep kids engaged,

Firstly, binoculars : however good your camera, there’s nothing like a great pair of binoculars – we were recommended 10 x 40 strength (minimum), and this pair of bird-watching binoculars were perfect.

Not too heavy – both for my daughter to keep them around her neck, but also for weight restrictions on internal flights – they come in their own little case, and won’t break the bank.

We also packed this great East Africa animal spotting chart – not only did it keep her entertained crossing off all the species we saw, it was great for learning a bit more about the animals which are found in east Africa. Plus a nice little souvenir of our trip.

Do also pack a decent camera if you have one – phone cameras are amazing these days, but you don’t get the kind of zoom you’ll need a lot of the time on safari.

If you’ve got a DSLR gathering dust, as I had, hunt it out and make sure you have a spare memory card and battery, or consider packing your charger if your camp has electricity. If you have a good zoom lens, so much the better.

It’s also worth packing your kids’ cameras if they have one. The quality might not be amazing, but children will love being able to snap away as well.

Add in a torch – a headtorch is ideal to keep your hands free if you’re walking around camp after dark, or trying to read while kids sleep – as well as a power bank to keep all the devices charged.

Not all camps will have electricity in the tents (though ours had lots of sockets, electricty and WiFi) and you don’t want your camera phone running out of battery just as a lion appears! I also take a 3-port USB plug charger so if there is a socket, you can charge everything in one go.

Bear in mind that if you’re taking internal flights, the small planes usually have a 15kg per person weight allowance (including hand luggage) and you have to take a soft sided case or bag. The FlyMax range has expandable versions which aren’t too heavy.

Other packing essentials for Kenya with kids

Bring a reusable bottle for water – firstly, you need to ensure that everyone is drinking enough to stave off dehydration (although don’t drink the tap water).

Kenya has banned single-use plastic bags, but with plastic pollution becoming an increasing problem world wide, it’s good to avoid adding to the plastic bottle waste where you can.

A lot of hotels are switching to glass, which is great but not so good to carry around so having your own is much easier. I like the Chilly’s range as it helps it stay cool, isn’t too heavy and my elephant print bottle fitted right in!

If you’re planning to head to the coast and do some snorkelling – and there are great options for kids there – it’s also a good plan to take your own snorkel. My daughter uses the Subea Easybreath all-in-one snorkel and mask from Decathlon.

Most snorkelling boat tours will provide their own but they’ll be adult size only (and you won’t get fins either).

Getting around Kenya with kids

Kenya is the world’s 48th largest country by area – around 28 times the size of Wales or the state of New Jersey, so unless you have time to spare (and kids who are happy with long drives), you’re likely to be taking some internal flights to help you get around.

However if you start your trip in Nairobi, as we did, you’ll need a way to get around the city to explore first. Nairobi traffic definitely isn’t something you want to attempt unless you’re accustomed to it, so the best option is to arrange a driver – your hotel can normally advise if you don’t have another recommendation.

It’s easy to prebook an airport transfer in advance too

There are also self-drive options for a family safari but with limited time, we found that visiting with an experienced safari guide was much better.

For starters, all the guides will talk to each other to find the latest and best sightings so you’re not driving around wondering where everything is, they know how to stay safe, and they know what to expect from the animals – I know we wouldn’t have spotted our leopard without our guide.

While some areas will have tracks to drive on, some need proper off-road vehicles as well. Not all national parks and conservancies will allow you to self-drive, and those which do will have limits on the amount of time you can spend inside – scroll down to read the rest of my tips on a safari in Kenya with kids.

There are several companies offering internal flights in Kenya, including the memorably named Jambojet, as well as Safari Link who we used for our flights. These connected Wilson Airport in Nairobi to the various camps in the Mara, as well as down to the coast at Malindi and Diani.

For the shorter routes around the Mara, expect them to be pretty small – ideal for hopping between the small airstrips, but often bumpy and noisy so nervous fliers need to be aware.

Don’t necessarily expect them to run to time or timetable – our 11am flight stopping at various other Mara camps before heading to Nairobi ended up arriving over 30 minutes late and going direct. A hakuna matata attitude is definitely a good approach!

The end result was pretty much the same, but it’s a good idea not to book a short connection – though the Safarilink area at Wilson airport is very compact.

Be ready to point out your hold luggage as you board too, so there’s little chance of it going astray as you literally watch it being loaded and unloaded. Your bags must be soft sided and both your hold and hand luggage will be weighed so don’t exceed the 15kg per person maximum.

How to plan your Kenya itinerary

From bucket list events like the Great Migration to game reserves galore, the chance to discover Kenyan culture and relax by the Indian Ocean, you won’t be short of ideas to fill a family holiday in Kenya.

But if you’re short of time, you can pack a surprising amount into a week’s stay. We had around 8 days in total, including flying time, for our February half-term escape and managed to fit in a brief stop in Nairobi, 48 hours on safari and time at the coast in Watamu.

I’d have very happily have spent longer, especially with a few more days at the coast at the end, or adding in some of the wildlife of northern Kenya if I had had more time. Don’t rule it out if you’re looking for a week’s winter sun though.

While I often plan our trips independently, it can pay to work with a specialist tour operator for a trip like this too, especially if it’s your first safari or you haven’t visited Africa much.

Ours was arranged with Far & Wild Travel , who are Africa specialists, had a great app (Vamoos) to keep all the information and tips in one place, and have an emphasis on sustainability, helping you see the carbon footprint of your trip (and how to offset this).

For more inspiration on things to do in Kenya with kids, check out the Lonely Planet Guide to Kenya

If you’re flying internationally, you’ll start your trip in Nairobi, so while you could jet straight out again, it’s well worth having a day in Nairobi to start the trip.

Bear in mind that traffic in Nairobi can often be bad, although a new Expressway is easing the jams, so don’t try to pack too much in if you’re limited on time.

Travelling from the UK there are overnight flights which get you to Nairobi first thing in the morning, so it’s good to have the option of a quick nap and at least an afternoon to explore before moving on the following day.

Check out my review of a stay at Hemingways Nairobi with kids

Other international flights (such as ours with Kenya Airways) land early evening, with just enough time for dinner and bed. While you could fly straight out the next morning, there’s plenty to see in the capital – it’s the only city in the world with a national park on its doorstep, for starters.

You can take a guided tour of the national park , if you want a taste of safari without an additional stop (or the cost). A private tour of Nairobi National Park can also be a good option if you’re visiting Kenya with kids, as there’s more flexibility than with a larger group.

If you have longer to spend, there are also day tours from Nairobi to Nakuru National Park and the hippos of Lake Naivasha

Or head to the Giraffe Centre where you can find endangered Rothschild giraffes and learn more about these beautiful creatures, as well as getting to feed them. The Centre also has a short nature walk trail.

Or meet elephants at the Sheldrick Wildlife Centre – visitors are only allowed between 11am and 12 noon so it does get booked up very quickly, especially during holidays. Make sure you book early!

You can also get skip-the-line tours which visit both the Giraffe Centre and Sheldrick Wildlife Centre, including transport

There used to be an option to visit later in the day if you sponsored an elephant (and a chance to meet the one you’d sponsored at the same time) but this option has now been stopped.

If you fancy picking up some souvenirs, there is a string of shops near the two animal attractions at Langata Link . Or head over to the Nairobi National Museum and nearby Nairobi Snake Park, to learn some more about the country’s history and culture (as well as its reptiles!)

Save some time to relax too. Picking a hotel with a pool is a good option to ease yourself in gently, and a good option to end a first day after some exploring – we stayed at Hemingways Nairobi , which is based near the attractions in Karen.

It’s worth knowing that hotel pools in Kenya close at 6pm (and this is usually enforced), plus they tend to be unheated. With the sun on them, that’s not a problem, but you may want to consider packing short wetsuits for younger ones.

One of the biggest draws of a holiday in Kenya with kids, a safari is absolutely unmissable if you have the opportunity.

While it’s rarely a cheap option, there’s nothing like getting to see the country’s wildlife in the wild – our safari experience in the Naboisho Conservancy was unforgettable, and seeing the animals with my daughter was even more special.

When you’re planning a safari in Kenya with kids, do bear in mind not all camps will allow younger children so check for a minimum age. You do also need to ensure your kids are going to have enough patience if you’re driving around looking for some of the animals, that they can stay quiet as required.

Check out my review of a stay at Hemingways Ol Seki in the Masai Mara

A camp with a pool is ideal too – there are early starts each day before it gets very hot, so factoring in a bit of time to cool off after the first game drive of the day (and a nap or downtime after lunch) is a good plan.

Allow a couple of days for your safari if possible – that way, if you aren’t lucky enough to spot something on the first day, you’ve got another chance. Don’t attempt to pack everything into a day: it’s too hot to keep driving for hours on end (even if your kids could stand it) and the animals will have sought out the shade too so there’ll be less to see anyway.

While you could spend longer than two or three days, it’s not the cheapest part of the trip, and after a couple of days you probably want a bit more of a chilled time.

Read on for more of my top tips about a safari in Kenya with kids

The Kenya coast

Finish your Kenya family holiday by the coast with some time to relax and wind down – if you’re doing a relatively short trip, you’ll be more than ready for a break after a long flight + safari.

You could do it the other way round and head to the coast before the safari, but it makes sense to end your trip by the beach on a relaxed note.

The two main tourist areas in Kenya are Watamu on the northern stretch of coast and Diani in the south.

Diani Beach has its own airport at Ukunda, and you can take internal flights from Nairobi, otherwise it’s around a 90-minute journey from Mombasa.

Watamu is a couple of hours from Mombasa but you can also fly to Malindi airport, as we did, which is around 20-30 minutes away. Most of the main hotels are in a row along the same stretch of coast, including Hemingways Watamu where we stayed.

Read my full review of a stay at Hemingways Watamu with kids

Both areas are home to national marine reserves, as well as turtle sanctuaries which help to protect the local marine life and educate both tourists and locals too.

You can also spot dolphins at both: Diani is home to bottlenose dolphins, while Watamu has both bottlenose and the rare humpback dolphins by the coast. There are also spinner dolphins in Kenya but you’re unlikely to see those closer to shore on one of the short boat trips on offer.

Tips for a safari in Kenya with kids

It doesn’t matter how old you are, seeing a family of lion cubs playing together or a leopard in a tree with its kill is the kind of experience you never forget – not to mention the array of other animals you can spot on a safari in Kenya with kids.

To get the most from your safari experience, especially as this is usually the priciest part of the trip, it pays to plan in advance though.

Check out my packing tips above for the essentials to pack for a safari in Kenya with kids, including binoculars, camera and animals spotting list among other items

The first question to consider is whether your kids are old enough. You absolutely can do safaris with younger kids, as fellow family travel bloggers Travelynn Family and Twins and Travels have proved but it’s worth considering whether a safari in Kenya with kids is best for your family, or self-drive elsewhere.

Some parks will have minimum age requirements for guided drives as well – the guides themselves are fantastic with kids, and having an expert on hand can transform the whole experience. Bear in mind different areas will also have different fees to pay, included in accommodation at some camps.

It’s also worth considering your own children’s personalities. While we spotted a string of animals during our safari, there are always moments when you’re driving around without much success or waiting for a big cat to emerge – will they have the patience to do this (or do you simply need something to keep them entertained while you do?)

Will they be able to stay quiet if needed – especially around the lions. While the big cats mostly ignore the safari vehicles as random metal boxes, children are just the right size to be considered prey and the higher pitch of their voices seems to put the lions on alert (although we had more than 15 sightings and didn’t get anything beyond a hard stare from one lioness).

My 10-year-old was good at curbing her excitement when she needed to, but you don’t want to be constantly hushing chatty kids. We did see other groups on the guided game drives with children younger than my daughter too so it’s definitely an option.

Expect to go off-road at times too – we found the seats towards the front were best as my daughter could brace her legs to help with the jolting.

And with early morning and late afternoon drives, the days can feel long for younger kids (though there’s plenty of time for a nap in between). If you visit a national park, you may well need to leave by 6.30pm as dusk falls too, while private game reserves like the Naboisho Conservancy allow you to be more flexible.

In our case, this meant we could hang around waiting for a leopard to emerge from the undergrowth and enjoy the astonishing sight of it climb its tree to enjoy the remains of its kill – as it was at the far end of the conservancy from our camp, it did mean we weren’t back for dinner until around 8pm.

Aged 10, my daughter had no problem with this but younger ones might struggle (or at least consider making back-up plans).

Unless you’ve picked a self-drive option, food is often included in your safari for practical reasons – camps will usually work with you to sort something with kids will enjoy but there’s obviously a limit to how flexible they can be. Speak to them about any dietary restrictions or what they can do for picky eaters beforehand.

As well as the game drives, you might have the option to visit a Maasai village as well as extras including a hot air balloon flight over the Maasai Mara – these usually have a minimum age restriction though and involve a very early start.

Tips for the Kenya coast

Set on the Indian Ocean, with marine reserves along parts of its length, there’s no better way to end a trip to Kenya with kids than relaxing by the beach.

Check out my packing tips above for the essentials to pack for a holiday in Kenya with kids, including child snorkels

It’s easy to veg out by the pool or on the beach itself, but save some time to discover some of the highlights of the Kenyan coast too.

At Watamu, where we stayed, there are various different ways you can discover the marine national park. Local tour operators work with the hotels to run family friendly boat trips, including dolphin-spotting and snorkelling, as well as the option to book sunset dhow cruises.

It’s worth knowing that the current can be quite strong at the main reef and there are lots of small boats stopping here. It’s best to choose an early start if you can: our trip was due to set off at 8.30am, and while we didn’t get underway until 9am, it still meant we were among the first at the reef, even after heading out to spot dolphins first.

You do get a lifevest so kids don’t need to be the strongest swimmers, but it’s best if they’re comfortable in the water – and a good plan to keep hold of younger ones to ensure they’re not pulled off by the current or getting too close to boats.

The best option is to start by swimming against the current away from the boats, then you can let it carry you back over the reef once you’ve finished.

You can also snorkel right off the beach at Watamu at high tide too: we spotted bluespotted ribbontail rays and a lionfish as well as lots of reef fish darting through the shallow water.

At low tide, you can see plenty more in the rocks pools – we bumped into one of the guys running our boat trip who led us around pointing out creatures we’d otherwise have missed, including a puffer fish, sea urchins, seastar, a whole family of moray eels and even an octopus. Bring some shillings with you to tip!

The powder white sand and clear water is increasingly at risk though, so it’s well worth tearing yourself away from the beach to visit some of the local initiatives protecting local marine life and helping tackle plastic pollution.

We headed to Turtle Watch Watamu (there’s a similar initiative in Diani too), where visitors – both tourists and locals – can learn more about the marine habitat and threats to it.

There are often rescued turtles in the sanctuary as well, being treated before being re-released – happily there were none during our visit, although the sanctuary is happy to contact visitors to re-visit if that changes during your stay.

And EcoWorld Watamu is another fantastic initiative which is well worth supporting. After starting out with a simple beach clean, it’s grown to provide jobs for the local community dealing with some of the area’s plastic pollution, as well as projects helping locals turn their trash into cash.

But that’s only the start. As well as educational programmes in school, there are some creative new approaches to the problem of plastic waste, including recycling it into bricks which can be used to build a house in two days.

While the towering heaps of plastic are a stark reminder of the scale of the issue, it’s a really inspirational place and a great way to get kids engaged.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links – any purchases you make are unaffected but I may receive a small commission . My trip to Kenya was courtesy of the Hemingways Collection and Far and Wild Travel (though I paid for some flights myself) – all opinions remain my own .

Images copyright MummyTravels

Award-winning family travel blogger and mum to the mini traveller, aka Minnie. Together we've visited Europe, America, the Caribbean, Africa and Asia, tried a cruise and a road trip, and survived countless long-haul trips. London (UK) based. Serious beach habit.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

The Traveling Child

If kids live there, kids can visit!

Kenya Safari: The Ultimate Planning Guide

October 5, 2018       Africa , Kenya

This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more information. All opinions are my own.

We spent 8 days exploring Kenya’s many national reserves, visiting local tribes, and enjoying the most beautiful beach we’ve ever seen. In this article I’ll help you plan your own African safari with kids in Kenya!

Cheap Flights to Kenya? Yes It’s Possible!

We flew Lufthansa from Miami to Nairobi after finding a flight deal last year. It was a deal we couldn’t pass up at $520RT per person! We find a lot of flight deals  on Skyscanner , download their free app here . Our first leg was 9 hours to Frankfurt where we had a 3.5hr layover until our 8-hour flight to Nairobi. Flying with kids like we were? Here are 6 Ways to Survive Long Haul Flights with Kids .

The Best Time to Visit Kenya

We traveled to Kenya the first week of September hoping to catch the Great Migration in Masai Mara. September is a great month to visit as it’s during the dry season. The weather was great, a little cool in the early morning and evenings but very comfortable throughout the day. Here’s more information on the best time to visit Kenya .

The Best Cities for a Kenya Safari

Kenya is huge and with limited time we couldn’t visit everywhere. We decided on Amboseli National Park, Lake Naivasha, Maasai Mara, Diani Beach and Nairobi.

Visas and Vaccines Needed for a Kenya Safari

You can easily apply for an e-visa online prior to arriving to Kenya. At the time of our trip visas were $50 per adult and kids 16 and under were free and did not require a visa application. We were approved within a week of applying, just log on to check your status. If you don’t do an e-visa you can get a visa upon arrival but we just thought why go through that hassle if we could avoid it.

When planning an African family safari many parents are worried about vaccines. Rest assured no vaccines are required to visit Kenya. Typhoid and yellow fever are recommended so prior to our departure we made appointments with our doctors. Both the girls pediatrician and our doctor confirmed neither were necessary. They said unless we were adventurous eaters and planned to eat street food or drink non-bottled water we would be fine.

We did however take malaria pills prior to, during, and for 7 days after our visit. The girls had a different type of pill than us that they took less frequently and was more of a chewable tablet. None of us suffered from side effects of the malaria pills. Both my husband and I previously took them on prior trips to Botswana and Ghana and while I didn’t suffer from side effects then my husband did. There is really no way to know how your body will react to the medication. Be sure to also pack insect repellent as anti-malaria pills are only 90% effective.

Kenya Safari With Kids

Many parents are skeptical of going on an African safari with kids because they think there is a minimum age for safaris. Our daughters were 2 and 4 year old toddlers on our Kenya safari and had the most amazing time.

The Best Kenya Safari Itinerary

Day zero: arrival in kenya and the best nairobi airport hotel.

After leaving the US Thursday late afternoon we arrived in Nairobi Friday 8pm local time. Following my rules for  preventing jet lag  allowed us to be tired when we landed which was exactly what we wanted. We were so happy we did the eVisa so we could quickly go through immigration!  We printed the forms prior to traveling to present to immigration upon arrival.

The next morning we would be departing to Amboseli National Park from Wilson Airport. We needed a Nairobi Airport Hotel that was close to both airports since we’d be arriving into Nairobi Airport. At the recommendation of a friend we booked the Acacia Tree Hotel . As we had a 8AM flight in the morning it was the perfect location. It was 30 minutes from Nairobi Airport and only 15 minutes from Wilson Airport where we were departing from.

Day One: Flight to Amboseli National Park & Game Drives on Kenya Safari

After such a long flight the night before the last thing we wanted was a long 4.5 hour bumpy drive to Amboseli National Park so we chose to take a 30 minute flight instead. Natural World Kenya Safaris took care of the booking for us and picked us up from our hotel to take us to the airport. We flew Kenya Airways on a 12 row propeller plane and landed on an airstrip in the middle of Amboseli National Park at 8:30AM . What a warm welcome we received when our plane had to do a circle before landing because animals were occupying the runway.

When we landed John, our driver for the next 6 days, was waiting for us on the landing strip. As promised we had a private vehicle just for our family with car seats for each of the girls. The safari truck sat 9 and there were only 7 of us including John so we weren’t cramped at all and the truck was very spacious. John took us on our first game drive immediately after leaving the airport on our way to our hotel. We spotted a lion within the first ten minutes and also saw herds of elephants, hyenas, zebras, hippos, wilder beast, gazelle’s, ostrich and more. We even had a herd of elephants cross right in front of our truck.

After an exciting game drive we checked into the Serena Amboseli Hotel . This lodge is perfect for family safari as they have a family room. It has two bedrooms with 3 beds and one bathroom. One room had a king sized bed while the other had two twin beds and a couch. The bathroom was in between both rooms and each room had outdoor seating.

All meals are included in the hotel stays so we got lunch. Meals were buffet style with some made to order options such as a pasta station. After a long flight the day before an early flight this morning we were tired and it was definitely time to rest and reconvene for our evening game drive at 5PM. After joining about 15 other safari trucks looking at a pack of lions in the distance through binoculars. About 5 minutes in we got the biggest treat of our lives when a female lion came out of nowhere and walked right past our trucks.

Everyone must be back to their lodges by 7pm so we went back for dinner and for bed as we were leaving early in the morning and had to be out of the park by 8am, which was the time we arrived in order to avoid paying an additional day’s fee for the park which is $60 per person. We chose to visit Amboseli National Park as it has views of Mt. Kilimanjaro in the background and thought it would be an amazing sight. Unfortunately, it was too cloudy during our stay to view the mountain but we still enjoyed our time.

Day Two: Lake Naivasha and Kenya Safari at Kenya Safari

We heard some horror stories about the drive to Maasai Mara taking forever and being very bumpy. When planning your family safari and deciding whether to drive or fly between cities consider the age of your kids and how they handle long car rides.  For us price was the determining factor.  Flights cost significantly more and since we wanted to save money we opted to drive. In my research I found Lake Naivasha as a great way to break up the drive and one of the best places to do a walking safari. We chose to take the chance and were happy with our choice. You know your children best, ours sleep well in cars and ended up sleeping most of the drive.

You may be interested in reading: Tips on Road Trips with Kids

The drive from Amboseli National Park to Lake Naivasha was 6 hours. While it was long it was nice getting to see different parts of Kenya we would have missed flying. Along the way we stopped at the viewing point of the Great Rift Valley, which is a valley that goes all the way from Israel down to Mozambique.

Upon arrival we checked into our hotel, Lake Naivasha Country Club . The rooms are in little duplex homes and each room has a veranda. There isn’t anything special about the rooms but they were clean!

After lunch, John took us on our Lake Naivasha Boat Safari, just 5 minutes from the hotel. We boarded our canoe and were able to see hippos and a multitude of birds on the way to Crescent Island. Our guide got a fish from one of the local fishermen who was fishing on the bank and took some pieces from one of the lake plants and stuffed it in the fish to make it float. He then whistled, threw it in the water and this huge bird flew down to snatch it, it was quite a site to see.

After our little show we made it to Crescent Island where we would be able to do a walking safari. There are no cats in the park but there are giraffes, gazelle, zebras, hippos, water bucks, and buffalos. It was the most amazing experience ever to walk amongst the wild animals.

We went back to our hotel and relaxed until dinner. The hotel grounds have so much green space that the girls loved running around. They also had a lot of activities for kids including a trampoline, swing set, and soccer field. The hotel also has a pool and tons of wild animals that roam the grounds. During our stay, we saw hippos, waterbucks, and monkeys and while we didn’t see any during our stay apparently it’s not uncommon for giraffes and zebras to pass through as well.

Day Three: Drive to Sarova Mara for Kenya Safari in the Kenya Safari

We made the 5hr drive from Lake Naivasha to Maasai Mara. Upon arrival we checked into our hotel, the Sarova Mara Game Camp , where we would be glamping for the next three nights. Here’s a look inside our tent.

We settled in, had lunch, and walked around the premises until our evening drive with John. On our first night we saw a pack of 5 cheetahs, known as the 5 Brothers. What we thought would be just a good time watching them hang out turned into the most exhilarating experience ever when we experienced a kill. Out of nowhere the cheetahs went from sitting down to a heightened stance, walked right past our safari truck and then chased down a Topi right in front of our eyes.

Every evening at 7 the hotel offers an activity for guests. This could be a cultural walk, Maasai dance or history lesson. This night the activity was a dance by one of the nearby Maasai Tribes. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about the Maasai tribes if you don’t have enough time to visit a village. All of these events are free for hotel guests!

Day Four: Morning Game Drive, Maasai Village Visit, & Evening Game Drive

We met John at 7:30AM to head out for our morning game drive. After finding some male lions sleeping under a tree we also came across zebras, elephants, topi, ostrich and more. We exited the reserve and went passed the town until we arrived at the Maasai Tribe we would be visiting. The chief’s son came to greet us and tell us a little bit of what to expect during our visit before members of the tribe came out to welcome us.

They welcomed us by singing to us and blessing us prior to entering the village. Once we entered the women in the village sang us their celebration song, inviting us to join them. Afterward, the men sang us their celebration song showed us their jumping competition. They then showed us how they make fire and let my husband and little ones try. We toured their homes, which are made by the women out of cow dung, lasting 10 years.

The village visit was $20 per adult and $10 for each child, paid directly to the chief’s son. After our village visit we headed to the hotel for lunch and an afternoon break. At 4pm we headed out for our evening game drive where we finally came across some giraffes. My favorite part however was watching Jordyn be our tour guide and sharing all the knowledge she learned so far.

Day Five: Drive to Mara River, Kenya/Tanzania Border & Bush Lunch

Again we met John at 7:30AM for a long drive to the Mara River. On the way, we, of course, stopped for several animal spotting’s including lions, a hyena, giraffes, baboons, zebras, and elephants. One of the coolest things we saw was a herd of wildebeest and two zebras that were migrating to the Serengeti. They were in a single file line and it was such a site to see.

Our first stop was to the Mara River where a ranger escorted us to the river to see the many hippos and crocodile that inhibit it. He also walked us to the point in the river that the animals cross to get from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Maasai Mara during the migration season. The best time to see a lot of animals migrating is in July.

Afterward John drove us to the Kenya/Tanzania border where were able to have our feet in two countries at once. There are beacons every 2km separating the two countries to help you identify which country you are in. There is no border control so no passport needed!

John drove us to a shaded area under a tree in the middle of the Maasai Mara when we had a picnic with food from the hotel. We sat in the open with hundreds of thousands of animal surrounding us and enjoyed the scenery. After lunch we hung out for a bit and the girls were able to run around and burn some energy off.

We then drove back to the hotel, again seeing animals along the way. We got back around 3PM and had the rest of the day to relax. The hotel offers free spear throwing and archery lessons and we took some. We didn’t quite master the spear throwing but we did great with the bow and arrow.

Day Six: Morning Game Drive & Flight to Diani Beach

It was time for our last Kenya Safari in the Maasai Mara. A black rhino was spotted the night before at 7PM so we searched that area but had no luck. Black Rhinos are extremely endangered due to poachers in the area. We were able to see some wildebeest migrating and spotted a male lion but it was actually was a pretty dry morning in terms of spotting animals.

After our game drive we went back to the camp to check out for 10AM and hung out in the public spaces until lunch at 12:30. We were still able to eat on site even though we had checked out and then proceeded to the airstrip for our 2PM flight to Diani Beach. There is no security, check-in, anything at this airstrip. You just show up 15-30mins before your flight and when the pilot arrives he has a paper with your name on it. Our game camp was closest to the Keekorok Airstrip so that’s the one we flew out of but depending on where you’re staying in Maasai Mara you will fly out of a different one. Our flight was operated by Safarilink  and it stopped in Amboseli first to let two passengers off.

We got into Diani Beach (landing at Ukanda Airstrip) at 4:30PM as our plane had to make a stop in Amboseli. It was an extremely small 14-passenger plane; including the pilots whom you could see the whole time as there is no cockpit door. I really wish we had an earlier flight this day because by the time we got checked into the hotel and settled it was too late to enjoy the beach and pool and we already had a great experience with the safaris so it wasn’t as if we really needed that last one.

We chose the Swahili Beach Resort and were not disappointed. The rooms are gorgeous and super spacious along with the entire property. There is also an entertainment staff hosting various activities throughout the day. During our visit there were salsa lessons and dancing, beach volleyball, zumba, and karaoke.

Day Seven: Swahili Beach Resort Pool and Diani Beach

After some long drives getting to each area we visited we were ready for some relaxation! There are way too many pools to count at Swahili Beach Resort and we took full advantage of all of them. Some of the pools included a kiddie pool, one with a volleyball net, and mini pools that cascade down forming a pool waterfall.

During the time of year we visited high tide at the beach began at 12PM. It was amazing to see the drastic difference between low tide and high tide. Once high tide came we moved to the beach with where ocean temps were about 75 degrees, perfect for swimming.

If you want to do more than relax you can take a tour to Mombasa. Just an hour to 90 minute drive and you can learn more about the rich history of the coast. Our hotel offered a round trip taxi for $60 total (not per person). We thought about doing it but decided to just soak up some sun instead.

Day Eight: Nairobi City Tour & Flight Home

It was our last day and since we were flying out of Nairobi to go home we decided to leave Diani Beach on an 8AM flight to Nairobi so we could explore a bit of Kenya’s capital city before our 7:40PM flight. The flight is only 45 minutes so it allowed us plenty of time to see a few sights. On the flight from Mombasa you fly over Mt. Kilimanjaro which is a great sight to see.

When we arrived at the airport our driver picked us up and we went to the David Sheldwick Elephant Orphanage. The doors open at 11:00AM and people start lining up by 10AM to get the best views. The required donation fee is 500 shillings for adults and 200 shillings for children 2 and up. The orphanage rescues elephants whose parents have been poached by hunters and elephants cannot survive in the wild without their mothers until they are 2-3 years old. Once they reach the age (or health if also injured) the orphanage reintroduces them back to the wild.

We had lunch at the Karen Blixen Museum before heading to the Giraffe Center. We would have loved to visit Giraffe Manor but the cheapest room was $595 per night per person so we passed. The Giraffe Center is the perfect alternative and is a conservatory for endangered Rothschild Giraffes. You are able to feed the giraffes here for a small entry fee of 500 shillings.

We were able to stop at a local market before heading back to the airport for our flight. The Swiss Airlines terminal has a kid’s playroom with toys, a TV, couches and plenty of space for the kids to run around!

How We Planned the Perfect Kenya Safari with Kids

I am so happy we booked our Kenya Safari with kids through Natural World Kenya Safaris . Not only did we receive world-class service but they also made planning the trip a breeze. When I reached out to them I knew the areas of Kenya we wanted to visit on our trip. They provided amazing suggestions to make the most of our time and helped us pick the best accommodations. Natural World also handled all of the bookings for us. This included domestic flights, airport pick-ups and drop-offs, our safari driver, and bottled water for our entire trip. They also booked our hotel accommodations except Diani Beach. The reason was they said it would be cheaper for us to book on our own and I appreciated their honestly. Even still they provided recommendations and we ended up booking one of them with no regrets.

My favorite part about Natural World Safaris is that local Kenyans own it. If you choose to go through Natural World Safaris request John as your safari driver. John grew up near Tsavo and knows the game reserves like the back of his hand. He is so knowledgeable about the areas, animals, local tribes, culture and anything you could possibly want to know. It amazed us that he can literally spot a lion from more than a mile away. He also gets you really close to them so you can get a good look and great photo like this one!

John went above and beyond to make sure we had an amazing time and was so good with the girls. He is the perfect guide for those planning a Kenya safari with kids. If you have him please tell him Jordyn and Kennedy from Florida said hi!

Money in Kenya

Kenya uses Kenya Shillings and at the time of our visit, the exchange rate was $1USD to 100 Kenyan Shillings. All the hotels we stayed at accepted credit cards if you were purchasing extras like alcoholic beverages or spa services. Tips and purchases made in the Maasai Mara village were the only time we used cash. We exchanged our cash at the airport on arrival as there is an exchange counter at baggage claim. Four of the five hotels we stayed at also exchanged foreign currency.

Our Kenya safari was everything and the only thing I wish I could change was that we spent more time there. I hope we’ve inspired you to plan an African family safari. If I left something out that you have questions about, drop them below. Please share this post if you found it helpful!

The Traveling Child is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to  amazon.com ,  amazon.co.uk ,  amazon.ca . Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

Newsletter Subscribtion

Reader interactions.

October 6, 2018 at 12:26 am

I was wondering if the Natural World group booked your driver for the day 8 Nairobi city tour? And if not how was th transportation arranged?

Side note: I love your blog and how you show that it’s possible to still travel but work a regular job! I was wondering how you find trustworthy companies for your excursions and transportation around the places you visit, for ex. The Natural World group.

Thanks, Traci

October 6, 2018 at 12:26 pm

Yes Natural World took care of everything!! One of their drivers met us at the airport in Nairobi, took us around for the day and then dropped us back for our flight home.

You’re so welcome, it takes a lot of sacrifice but so worth going back to work the next dat after landing home from Kenya at 7PM the night before to be able to travel often. I wrote a post on The Best Travel Apps You Need to Download Now and TripAdvisor is one of them (they have a desktop version too). I always check reviews for tour companies and hotels there after discovering them on someone else’s blog or even the forums on TripAdvisor. They are some really good resources there, all under the Trip Planning Category on my site.

October 6, 2018 at 2:51 pm

Hi! I found my way here via BTM on FB. I am always wanted to go to Kenya and now, after seeing your blog post, I am more excited than ever. I literally bookmarked your page and plan on using all your tips for our future trip, which we are anticipating being next year.

Thank you so much for sharing!!!

Happy Travels <3

October 11, 2018 at 8:08 pm

Yay, I am so happy to hear you found my blog so helpful. You will absolutely love Kenya! Feel free to steal the itineraries from any of our other trips.

October 6, 2018 at 3:09 pm

Just wonderful and very informative, thank you for sharing the info and instilling the desire to visit the great continent called Africa

October 11, 2018 at 8:09 pm

You’re so welcome!

October 6, 2018 at 3:10 pm

Thanks so much for this its helpful and insightful

October 6, 2018 at 4:27 pm

I smiled the entire time that I read your blog!! Great information and we will visit soon!!!!

October 6, 2018 at 7:09 pm

Excellent blog; I will be traveling to Mombasa (Diani Beach) in December. I will take all your saged advice while visiting Kenya 🇰🇪. Thank you for taking the time to share you and your family‘s experiences while traveling to Kenya. Respectfully, Mark

October 6, 2018 at 8:48 pm

I’m from Kenya, Mombasa and I’m soo happy that you came and enjoy our country. Thank you for the positive reviews. Welcome back again.

October 11, 2018 at 8:11 pm

I am so happy to have your stamp of approval! We hope to return soon, your country is so beautiful.

October 8, 2018 at 9:47 pm

I I truly enjoyed your blog!! I am encouraged to visit Kenya now. I would love to do a safari. Was always concerned about vaccinations but if you took your babies you felt secure and good about it and I do now as well. I’ve been to Ghana and loved it there so I look forward to doing Kenya. Your family is beautiful!!..God bless you all.

October 11, 2018 at 4:41 pm

I loved this post! My husband and I went on a safari in Tanzania before we had kids, and I’d love to go back now with the whole family. I didn’t know if it was possible, but you’ve convinced me!

October 20, 2018 at 8:33 pm

This trip seems so amazing! I’m in the process of researching an African trip for my family of four, but not sure to which country as yet. I would love to know the costs break down for the trip if you are comfortable sharing that information. I have no idea how much we should budget!

• South Korea
• Indonesia (Bali)
• Central Asia
• African Safari
• South Africa
• Itinerary Ideas
• How to plan a Family Trip To Kenya That Everyone will Enjoy

Kenya, with its variety of wildlife, is a perfect destination for a family adventure. A trip to Kenya can be a life-changing experience for both you and your kids.

However, when it comes to planning the trip, it can be exhausting. How to choose the best safari destinations and activities catering for all family ages, finding out if there any lodges suitable for families...

We have tailored trips across Kenya for families. We know what you are looking for. Based on our experience, we have given you the following tips for planning your once-in-a-lifetime family journey to Kenya.

The Best Things to Do with Your Family in Kenya

Not all of the "best things to do" recommended by the TA may be suitable for your family. Based on our experience, we have recommended the best family-friendly activities below.

1. Take a Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha

Naivasha is a fantastic place for your kids. Take a relaxing boat ride across the lake to enjoy seeing hippos and a wide variety of birds.

Your family could also ride around the spacious wilds on bikes and get close to the wild animals. There are no large carnivores, so you can enjoy riding around without worrying about lions, leopards, or cheetahs. Kenya's most popular area for biking is inside Hell's Gate National Park just to the south of Lake Naivasha.

2. Take an Interesting Walking Safari with Your Family

Your children could get tired of the long game-viewing drives, so a walking safari offers a refreshing change.

During a walking safari, your kids would have the chance to get close to wildlife. Loisaba Conservancy and Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia, as well as some camps in Maasai Mara, offer guided walking safaris, allowing you to explore the wilderness and encounter wildlife up close.

Hell's Gate National Park is one of the few parks in Kenya that allows unescorted walking safaris. You can walk or cycle among zebras, giraffes, and other non-predatory wildlife.

3. Visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

One of the best activities for your kids is probably this elephant orphanage. Kids usually love seeing the adorable elephant calves, some of which may walk up close to them.

Children particularly enjoy watching the playful baby elephants during feeding time and listening to the individual stories about how each elephant was rescued. The

David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is a sanctuary in Nairobi, Kenya, dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned elephants and rhinos before reintroducing them into the wild.

4. Take a Hot-Air Balloon Ride over Maasai Mara

Imagine seeing animals running in the wild beneath you from the sky. Your family could feel the immense excitement of watching a multitude of animals spread across the expansive plains.

Your kids can feel proud as they spot a giraffe among the trees or an antelope on a plain. Your family will enjoy an incredibly beautiful view when the sun comes up. That would definitely be an unforgettable experience for all of your family members.

5. Visit a Tribal Village

You may want your kids to learn about the local culture and people in Kenya. We recommend that you visit a Maasai Village. The Maasai people are famous for their colorful clothes and are good at dancing. We can arrange a visit to the village, and, during the visit, your kids will learn a bit about their life and culture, which would definitely open their eyes.

6. Relax on Diani Beach

After a few days of busy game-viewing, spending a few days on Kenya's inviting beaches is a very good choice. There is a lot to do for families: playing on the beach, snorkeling, kayaking, taking dhow cruises to Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve…

Other family-friendly activities include feeding giraffes at the Giraffe Center and seeing flamingoes at Lake Nakuru — there are so many things to do in Kenya.

Discuss with your family what you are most interested in and tell our travel advisor. He/she will tailor a personalized tour for you based on the interests of your family.

How Long to Travel in Kenya for a Fulfilling Family Tour

There are many things to see in Kenya and we recommend staying for about 10 days to explore at a comfortable pace .

We suggest planning to spend about 2 nights in each of the top national parks . Your children may get tired of safaris if you schedule too many days in the same park. You also don't want to be moving too much and wasting your time on the way by spending 1 night in each park.

Mix your safari experiences with some relaxation (around 2 days) on Kenya's beautiful beaches. Diani is the most famous beach for families. Your family could enjoy just playing on the beach or some activities, such as snorkeling and kayaking.

The Top Kenya Itineraries for Families

Kenya makes a perfect introduction to Africa. Whether you are traveling for a birthday gift or graduation present for your children, there will be an itinerary for you.

Below, we outline two classic Kenya family itineraries to inspire you. All of our itineraries can be tailored to meet your personal schedule and interests, including your preferred travel days and dates as well as any other specific requirements you may have.

1. The Classic 10-Day Kenya Itinerary for Families

This itinerary offers a mix of wildlife, cultural experiences, and relaxation opportunities on beaches. It is considered the best itinerary for families.

Looking for a unique itinerary for your family? Contact us to tailor-make one! Our Kenya expert will contact you within 24 hours and customize an itinerary for you!

2. 1-Week Summer Vacation in Kenya

If you are considering a summer family vacation in Kenya, this quicker 7-day itinerary may be perfect for you. This 1-week adventure combines Kenya's dramatic landscapes and fascinating wildlife.

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

How Much Does a Family Trip Cost?

For a high-quality travel experience in Kenya, we recommend booking a private tour for your family trip. Our private tours with an experienced local guide, a skillful driver, and a private vehicle offer a more personalized, flexible, and immersive experience. Your driver will know where the Big Five may appear and he can help to maximize your chances of encountering a wide variety of wildlife.

Generally, a 10-day private tour for a family of four can cost between US$1,000 and US$15,000 per family. This cost typically includes lodgings at quality 4- or 5-star hotels, domestic transportation, guided tours, and some meals.

Kenya's most expensive travel season is from July to October during the animal migration season in Maasai Mara. If you want to travel at a more affordable price, you may choose to travel during December, which is the short rainy season.

We have tailor-made trips for families from Europe and America for decades. We understand what once-in-a-lifetime experiences for families should be. Let's tailor-make a Kenya itinerary for your family .

How to Choose Suitable Hotels for Your Family Trip

Choosing family-friendly hotels in Nairobi and by Kenya's beaches is very easy as there are many options available. However, you may need to do some work when choosing safari lodges.

In Mombasa and Diani Beach, Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort and Spa and Baobab Beach Resort and Spa are good choices.

• Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort and Spa : Offers spacious family rooms, a kids' club, and direct beach access.
• Baobab Beach Resort and Spa : Known for its expansive grounds and excellent facilities, such as swimming pools and a kids' club.

When choosing a lodge for your family for your safari trip, here are some things you may need to know: some lodges have age restrictions for game drives or walking safaris, and not all of the lodges offer kid-friendly meals, a pool, or a play area.

• Sarova Mara Game Camp is a good choice in Maasai Mara. It offers spacious family tents, kid-friendly foods, and a pool.

We can help you book a suitable hotel/lodge for your family if you travel with us.

How to Travel Around Kenya with Kids

The best way to travel around Kenya is definitely by flight. There are flights from Nairobi, Kenya's capital and major entry city, to Mombasa (Kenya's coast) and Kenya's national parks, such as Maasai Mara. There are also flights traveling between Kenya's major national parks, such as between Maasai Mara and Naivasha.

There are other cheap options available, such as traveling by private transfer, but we don't recommend using them unless you and your kids will probably cope well with the longer bumpy and dusty road journeys in Kenya.

By t aking a private family tour with us , your guide and private car will transfer you to the airport for your flight to the next destination. It will save you a lot of hassles.

Things to Know Before Going on a Family Trip in Kenya

1. For a safari trip, it is important to remind your kids to be patient during game drives. Unlike zoos, wildlife reserves showcase animals in vast, open areas where they roam freely, so spotting them may take time.

2. Game drives usually take place around dawn and at sunset when the animals are most active. Therefore, be prepared for early starts, often around 5.30 a.m.

3. Roads in Kenya may not be as smooth as those in your home country, so prepare your children for potentially bumpy and dusty rides.

Why Global Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)

• Save Your Time:
• Less research, more enjoyment!
• Real-time 1V1 expert planning
• Maximize Your Flexibility:
• Personal local guide and ride
• Explore at your own pace
• Celebrate Your Journeys:
• Specially-crafted family adventures
• Celebrate milestones with style!
• 9-Day Kenya Active Family Private Safari Tour
• 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Best Safari Tour
• 12-Day Kenya Best Safari Tour with Amboseli
• 15-Day Egypt and Kenya Highlights Tour
• 1 Week in Kenya — 4 Time-efficient Itineraries
• How to Plan a Lifetime Trip to Kenya
• 2 Weeks in Kenya — 4 Unique Itineraries for Families and Couples
• Kenya Weather in January: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Kenya Weather in February: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Kenya Weather in March: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Kenya Weather in April 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Kenya Weather in May 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Kenya Weather in June 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Kenya Weather in July 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Kenya Weather in August 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Kenya Weather in September 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Kenya Weather in October 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Kenya Weather in November: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Kenya Weather in December: Travel Tips for First-Timers

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

More travel ideas and inspiration, sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why Global Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Southeast Asia
• Japan, South Korea
• India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri lanka
• Travel Agents
• Loyalty Program
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

• Massachusetts
• Pennsylvania
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Washington D.C.
• Washington State
• Niagara Falls
• Playa Del Carmen
• Paris, France
• Rome, Italy
• Venice, Italy
• Florence, Italy
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Madrid, Spain
• Barcelona, Spain
• Seville, Spain
• London, U.K
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Cayman Islands
• Saint Lucia
• Turks and Caicos
• United Arab Emirates
• Cartagena, Colombia
• New Zealand

• All Inclusive
• National and State Parks
• RV Vacations
• Skiing/Winter Activities
• Summer Vacation
• Winter Travel
• Spring Break
• Animal Encounters
• City and Culture
• Virtual Vacations
• Weekend Getaways

• Packing Tips
• Road Trip Tips

Family Travel Tips

• Travelling With Babies
• Travelling With Toddlers
• Gifts and Gear -Travel Gift Ideas
• Submission Guidlines

An Exciting Kenya Safari Itinerary For Families

SHARE THIS ARTICLE

This exciting Kenya itinerary is a fantastic choice for families looking for their next adventure! Wildlife lovers can’t miss the chance to see incredible animals, nature, and scenery during a vacation to this East African country. From Nairobi, once the home of famous author Karen Blixen, to the Lakes Region, there’s so much variety awaiting you in Kenya. Not to mention seeing elephants, giraffes, and other amazing creatures up close! Visiting Kenya as a family can seem daunting, between booking places to stay, plane tickets, and more. You may also be wondering about the best time to visit Kenya as a family or how to plan a trip to Kenya with kids. That’s where this guide to visiting Kenya as a family comes in! Whether you have a trip planned or it’s on your bucket list, keep reading for an Exciting Kenya Safari Itinerary For Families!

Also, read : Exciting 6-Day Safari Itinerary In Tanzania For Families

What’s the Best Time to Visit Kenya as a Family?

You’re probably wondering the best time to visit Kenya as a family. Our family took a trip over the “festive” period in December 2021 with two kids, 8 and 10. They had the time of their lives seeing Kenya during the holidays ! Kenya is one of the few countries that does not have age minimums for a safari, although there are camps that are adult only. While we had an amazing time on our Kenya safari with kids , there are definitely some things I would change.

I would recommend 1 full day in Nairobi, 3 days each at 2 different safari camps, and if you have time, 3-4 days at the beach. We did not have enough time to add beach time, so we opted for the Lakes Region in the Great Rift Valley. If you have time for the beach and want to stay in Kenya, AfroChic Diana Beach is a nice place to stay. 

How to Plan a Trip to Kenya as a Family

To put things in context, planning international travel during the pandemic was no easy feat. First off, since most safaris were canceled in December 2020, most places had north of 60% occupancy already due to the carry-over of vacations. I expect this to be less of an issue in 2022, although there were a lot of cancellations in mid-to-late December 2021. Secondly, our flights changed 4 times, so our original trip was 2 days shorter than what we ended up with due to flight cancellations and rebookings. Lastly, travel between different countries is a challenge because of the various entry restrictions and requirements, so we didn’t attempt it.

Besides this, travel in Kenya as a family felt pretty safe. At the safari camps, the staff lives on-premises for weeks at a time and many camps require testing. Masks wearing was also mandated to all hospitality employees, as well as temperature checks.

Day 1: Checking Into Our Hotel in Nairobi

On the first day of our exciting Kenya itinerary for families , we arrived late. Once we got settled, we spent the night at Ole Sereni Hotel , which is 15 minutes from the airport and next to Nairobi National Park. If you stay here, stay in the new section (Emara), not the old section, as there’s a material difference in quality. Emara has an outdoor pool, a spa, and a fitness center. Originally, we weren’t planning to stay long, so we’d planned to spend the night at Four Points near the airport. But, when our flights changed and we added an extra day, most of the nicer hotels were fully booked. The Ole Sereni Hotel was fine, but I recommend staying in the Karen district, where most attractions are located. Family-friendly accommodation options include Hemingways , Giraffe Manor , or House of Waine.  Or, stay inside Nairobi National Park at The Emakoko . 

Day 2: Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, Karen Blixen Museum, and Giraffe Center 

One full day is enough to explore Nairobi on a Kenya safari with kids . So, on day two of our exciting Kenya itinerary for families, we visited the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, aka the Elephant Orphanage! Certainly, this is one of the best things to do in Kenya with kids . Animal lovers can get up close and personal with baby elephants at this special rehabilitation center. You’ll see them being fed with a big baby bottle, and some may even come close to say hello! To see endangered Rothschild Giraffes, we also visited the Giraffe Centre while visiting Kenya with kids .

This wildlife conservation park lets guests feed the giraffes! Keep an eye out for other animals, like warthogs. Another fun destination for families in Nairobi is the Karen Blixen Museum. Located on a beautiful property at the foot of the Ngong Hills, visitors can explore the estate of famous Danish author Karen Blixen to learn more about her life. It’s a must for parents who are a fan of the movie Out Of Africa!

Day 3: Lewa Wildlife Conservancy 

Day three of our exciting Kenya itinerary for families was certainly an adventure. We departed Nairobi through the Wilson Airstrip on a small plane to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, which is located in northern Kenya. Not to mention one of the best things to do in Kenya for families . We chose Lewa because it’s one of few places to see an abundance of black rhinos and grey zebras, both of which are endangered species. Since we didn’t see any later in our trip, this was ultimately a good choice for my family. In fact, the wildlife viewing was so spectacular, that pictures don’t even do it justice! Lewa Wildlife Conservancy also offers a glimpse at elephants and other wildlife such as lions, perfect for a Kenya safari with kids .

We stayed at the Elewana Lewa Safari Camp for three nights. It was amazing in terms of location, service, and food. We had two tents across from each other (one for the kids and one for us). Definitely a great choice when visiting Kenya with kids .

Day 4: Maasai Mara National Reserve, and the &Beyond Bateleur Camp 

After staying three nights, we departed Lewa for the Maasai Mara National Reserve, located in Southern Kenya. As one of the most exciting parts of our Kenya itinerary for families, a visit to this nature preserve is a must during a family vacation. The wildlife diversity is so amazing that we spotted new animals every day, even on the 6th day of our safari.

In particular, we saw wildebeest, cheetahs, hyenas, and topi, which we didn’t see at Lewa. In terms of accommodations, we stayed at the Bateleur Camp , located in the Mara Triangle. It was more luxurious than Lewa Safari Camp, but despite that, the service didn’t quite compare in terms of attention to detail (Lewa truly went above and beyond, from fresh towels when returning from safaris to cocktail events for parents). At Bateleur Camp, there were even more animals but also a lot more people, especially over the weekend. However, the rooms were spectacular and the staff was very nice. If you’re going during peak season, try to avoid Maasai Mara over the weekend. 

Day 5: Lake Naivasha and the Great Rift Valley

On day five of our exciting Kenya itinerary for families, we departed for Loldia House in Lake Naivasha in the Great Rift Valley. When we originally booked our trip, we didn’t have enough time to fly to the eastern coast of Kenya for beach time. Instead, we opted for the Lakes region. While the Lakes region offers a different experience, I recommend visiting at the beginning of your trip.

Loldia offers views of Lake Naivasha and sits on a reserve of 6500 acres with lots of animals including hippos, buffalo, gazelles, topi, vervet monkeys, warthogs, zebras, and many birds. We loved seeing the hippos feed 50 yards from us at night! In Hell’s Gate National Park , we saw animals while biking and then hiked with a ranger through a slot canyon. We also took a boat ride on the lake and visited a bird sanctuary. The Lakes region provides an abundance of amazing things to do in Kenya with kids ! 

Pro Tip: A drawback of staying in the Lakes region is that most activities require at least an hour’s drive each way. So, you should only visit places you’re super enthusiastic about on your Kenya safari with kids . Lake Nakuru is only ~60km away but can take between 2-4 hours to reach with traffic.  

Day 6: Relaxing in Karen, Departure 

We ended our exciting Kenya itinerary for families by heading back to Nairobi. There, we had a relaxing stay in Karen, a suburb near some of Nairobi’s best attractions. This was a perfect way to wind down and prepare for our long journey back home. If you’re looking for things to do in Karen with kids, you can go shopping at The Hub Karen . We also enjoyed a few family-friendly restaurants in Karen, such as ​​ Talisman and Tamambo.

Happy Travels!

We hope you liked this Exciting Kenya Safari Itinerary For Families by our contributor Anna Massion ! Whether you have a trip planned or it’s on your bucket list, you won’t be disappointed with your dream vacation to Kenya with kids . Certainly, Kenya during the holidays adds a special treat to this bucket list family vacation! Enjoy visiting Kenya with kids ! 

Then, read : Best Weekend Getaways From Dubai For Families

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are that of the attributed author.

​​If you're looking for an adventure for families that will get everyone’s heart pumping and adrenaline flowing, try biking through Read more

Looking for the best hikes near Anchorage for families? You’re in the right place! A visit to the Anchorage area Read more

Alaska offers countless opportunities for adventure-seeking families, making it a perfect place to plan your next itinerary with kids! Given Read more

A one-week itinerary in Costa Rica with young kids will be filled with natural splendors, exciting excursions, and tranquil relaxation. Read more

Thanks for reading!

Love our content?

Stay in the know by  subscribing to our weekly newsletter .

Immerse yourself in a world of limitless exploration by joining us on  Instagram at families.love.travel .

Join our vibrant  Facebook community, "Families Who Love to Travel,"  (where family travelers like you can ask for advice and share tips with other families!).

Plus, you can read our latest articles by following our  Facebook page .

Shop for Family  Travel  Memorabilia  on Shop Families Love Travel.

Latest Articles

How to plan a yellowstone national park family vacation.

Everyone knows that Yellowstone National Park makes for a classic family vacation. Strolling the boardwalks...

Best Beaches® Turks and Caicos Review By A UK Family

Beaches Turks and Caicos may not seem like a typical vacation destination for a UK...

All About the Cayman Islands With Kids: Important Information You Need to Know

If you’re traveling to the Cayman Islands with kids, there’s some important information you need...

• Next »

Travel Gift Ideas

18 Exciting Travel Toys For Young Kids That Will Keep Them Entertained The Whole Trip

Top Travel Books for Little Kids

Top Travel Books for Tweens and Teens

National park with kids.

6 Days in Acadia National Park with Kids

One week itinerary in zion and bryce with kids.

Use These 10 Tips For Your Baby’s First Flight

Families Who Love To Travel contributor Meghan Oaks provides her 10 best tips for your...

When you're planning a family vacation, it's important to pack travel toys that will keep...

6 Best Travel Toys for Toddlers on a Road Trip

What are the best travel toys for toddlers? With help from our Facebook community, Families...

Families Who Love to Contribute

Last Updated on 4 months by Gunjan Prakash

Visiting Kenya With Kids: The Family Safari Guide

Kenya is children’s dream destination for fun and comfort. Taking your children to Kenya for a holiday can be a life-changing experience for the kids and yourself. The country has a breath-taking topography for adventurous activities, making it an incredible destination to visit in Africa. Kenya offers travellers wildlife spotting, a world-class safari, a beautiful coastline and several cities to have fun. Besides, the tourism industry has worked towards quality infrastructure to enable high-end tourists to access destinations easily. Comfort and luxury are guaranteed in many tourists’ places in Kenya.

Kenya is tourists’ favourite place in Africa to travel with kids. Whether you relax on a beach or visit the surreal mountains with your children, there are several activities for kids, including learning history and cultures in different museums. You can instil a spirit of adventure in the kids and let them make fantastic memories from a family trip in Kenya. Here is a guide for those planning an epic adventure with their family. This guide comprises what to pack, where to stay and things to do in Kenya with kids.

Why Kenya is an excellent destination to travel with kids

Nature and wildlife are very significant to children’s enjoyment. Nothing will make a kid happier than playing in natural settings or spotting their favourite animals in the wild. It is wiser for a parent to plan trips for kids involving nature. Kenya has great diversity in physical attributes and cultures.

The Maasai Mara National Reserve is the most famous destination for travellers. The national reserve is located in a savannah and hosts thousands of animals, and it is easier to spot the big five wild animals in Maasai Mara. The great annual migration along the River Mara is world-famous, making Kenya a top African country for wildlife watching. There are other national parks, game reserves and animal zoos in Kenya for a family safari. You can visit Amboseli National Park and view elephants up close or enjoy the scenic view of snow-cloaked Mount Kilimanjaro. The Great Rift Valley has scenic places to take holiday pictures and spot wildlife, including watching thousands of flamingoes flying above Lake Nakuru.

The country is blessed with blissful beaches along the Indian Ocean. You can relax with your children on the spectacular coastline either on Watamu or Diani beach, among many others along the coast. Kenya’s coastal region hosts several Swahili towns such as Lamu Island, Malindi and Kilifi. You can take cultural walks with your kids during your Kenya itinerary to learn about the Swahili cultures and try different cuisines offered in the coastal region. Read on to find out what you need to know when coming to Kenya.

Kenya holiday with kids guide

Is kenya a safe travel destination for kids.

Safety is vital when travelling, especially in a foreign country. A few towns in Kenya have been associated with crime, including a bombing in Nairobi several years back. It would be better to avoid the crowded parts of the cities and towns for the safety of your kids. If you have to be in overcrowded areas, watch out for pickpockets. There are serene places to visit with your kids without worrying about the constant disturbance.

Hotels, national reserves lodges, national parks, and gardens are guarded and secure for the kids. National parks and game reserves take precautions to protect visitors from wild animals. You do not need to worry about wild animal attacks. Besides, wild animals naturally prefer to stay away from humans unless disturbed.

Besides safety, health and hygiene are significant concerns when visiting with kids in Kenya. Your kids are likely to get malaria in tropical regions. There is a risk of yellow fever and food contamination when visiting some areas within the country. Yellow fever is preventable by getting a vaccination, which you must do before coming into the country. Learn more about health in the sections below.

Health in Kenya

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is a must before entering the country. You can be vaccinated against diseases like meningitis and hepatitis (A&B). Since food contamination is still an issue in the country, you can get cholera and typhoid vaccinations for your children, especially if your kids are street food lovers. Yellow fever is the most accessible, and a single shot will last you a lifetime. Getting the vaccinations earlier through your travel doctor is better because some take more than one dose. However, for children younger than 5 years swallowing pills to avoid malaria is not recommendable. Malarone has severe side effects on children, and it is difficult for children to swallow pills. Instead, children aged 0-5 years are given malaria pills with a small portion of chocolate every day. 

Hygiene in Kenya

Hotels and safari lodges offer visitors clean shelter, food and water. Tap water in Kenya is not safe for drinking. It would be better to allow your children to take food provided by the hotels or lodges you stay at instead of buying from the street. You can buy foods, beverages, and snacks from fast food joints along the major highways when on the road. If catering services fail to provide you with packed or boiled water for drinking, you can carry a steripen to sterilise tap water before giving it to your children. Avoid eating street food, especially in slums, because hygiene can be an issue. Carry rehydration and anti-diarrhoea pills to use if you encounter food contamination during your vacation. 

Travel Visa for Kenya

Travellers from the United States, United Kingdom, European Union, and Canada must have a visa to enter Kenya. Families can apply for a visa through a travel agency or get an evisa online. A 3-month single-entry visa will cost you about $51. If you come from South Africa, Singapore, San Marino or Malaysia, you do not need a visa to travel to Kenya. Once you meet the vaccination requirements, you can enter the country. Families need to be cautious about fraudulent websites when applying for evisa online. Ensure that you use an official website before submitting your details or paying any amount.

What is the best time to travel to Kenya with kids?

July to October is an excellent time to travel Kenya. The savanna grasslands are filled with thousands of animals, and it is easy for kids to spot them from a close range. The famous wildebeest migration on the river Mara starts in July to October. However, July-October is a tourist pick season, and you may get many destinations crowded and the prices relatively higher. November to February is a good time to visit Kenya. November, December, January and February have perfect weather, and destinations are less crowded and affordable.

It rains heavily during March, April and May, making the weather unfit for outdoor activities with children. Many lodges are targeting tourists close down temporarily due to the heavy rainfall and floods. It is challenging to spot animals while on safari because most of them hide deep in the forest or bushes to find shelter. The animals will rarely search for water like they do in the rainy season.

What to pack for Kenya with kids

Safari and other outdoor activities in Kenya involve driving and continuous exposure to the weather. Remember that game drives usually happen in the morning or the evening when the animals roam freely in the wild. Pack the kids wear depending on the weather. In Maasai Mara, for instance, the temperatures get as low as 12 degrees Celsius. Kids will need warm clothing under such low temperatures.

It is also recommendable to pack in style if possible. Use t-shirts and pants that can blend easily in the savannah environment. Select a stylish swimming costume for your child. A kid’s digital camera, kid’s binoculars or a book on African wildlife will make the safari more enjoyable. When selecting packing items for a safari, do not forget first aid kit to place the necessary medication and other safety items.

Besides the usual clothes, include the following in your packing list:

• Long-sleeved pyjamas for kids to protect mosquito bites
• Earth-toned safari-themed t-shirts
• Kids’ safari-themed underwear
• Zip-off convertible pants
• Hiking shoes
• Breathable socks
• A safari hat
• Keen water shoes or sandals
• Down jackets
• Kid’s fleece
• Polarised sunglasses (preferably with a strap)
• Mobile and headphones to listen to music
• Children’s binoculars
• Kid’s digital camera
• 70-300mm Tamron lens
• International plug converter
• Canon EOS 60D camera
• Flashlight or a head torch
• Portable power bank
• Insect repellant with DEET
• Kids’ books on wildlife

How long to travel Kenya with children?

Two weeks’ vacation is ideal for kids since there are a lot of places and activities for kids. Kids can explore at a comfortable pace without the rush of packing to go back home. If you take two weeks at minimum to travel Kenya, you can divide the days to visit different places at a particular time. For instance, you can spend two days at a national park then head to a beach or village. Mixing up your Kenya itinerary or changing the routine is vital to prevent the kids from getting bored.

Here is a sample:

• Day 1-3 –Stay in Nairobi; visit the museum, Nairobi National Park, Arboretum or the Bomas of Kenya
• Day 3-5 – Explore the Lamu Island
• Day 5-8 – Visit Lake Nakuru (enjoy watching the flamingoes and spot animals in the park)
• Day 8-11 – proceed to Maasai Mara National Reserve
• Day 11-13 – relax on Diani or Watamu beach
• Day 14 – prepare to fly back

How to get to Kenya

The most manageable way to get to Kenya is by air, and you can book a ticket to Kenya through a travel agency. The aeroplane will drop you and your kids at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. If you have arrangements with your hotels, they can pick you up at the airport. If not, you can take an Uber or a taxi to Nairobi City centre, 11 miles away. When travelling with kids, it is recommendable to check Fly4Free.com for airfare promo and books tickets in advance. You may be interested in the exciting deals offered online. For instance, a flight from Amsterdam-Nairobi-Seychelles costs about $600. A flight from New York to Istanbul to Nairobi and Return costs around or from London to Nairobi directly is relatively affordable.

How to get around Kenya with children

Car travels can be tiring and troublesome when travelling with children. Domestic flights are relatively affordable in Kenya. You can board a plane from Nairobi to Mombasa, Kisumu or Nakuru to get there within a few minutes. Helicopters are widely available to drop your children from one destination to another. Thus, instead of using over 6 hours on the road with a car, it is easier to take a plane to Maasai Mara and get more time to enjoy.

Rental cars

Although roads in Kenya have undergone massive development, congestion around Nairobi and main highways can be a nightmare. You require a 4WD to drive into a reserve or a national park. Renting a Toyota Land Cruiser is affordable, and your kids can have the best safari experience. If you are not experienced in driving 4WD, you can make transport arrangements with a lodge which also comes with a driver for similar prices with rentals.

A hired driver

Various safari lodges and camps in Kenya provide a road package that includes pick-up and drop-off from the airport or hotel and games drives during the day. Land Cruiser safari jeeps and Toyota vans are often used to travel Kenya for adventure. A driver is not necessarily a tour guide, so you cannot depend on them to spot animals.

Travel Kenya with a tour guide or independently

It is better to get a tour guide than travelling Kenya independently for a first-time African safari with kids. A tour guide helps the kids easily spot the animals and educate them about various animals and interesting facts about how they behave. The need for a guide will depend on the season. It is easier to spot wild animals from July to October in the savannah. A responsible tour guide company with good policies is essential when selecting a tour guide. G Adventures or Intrepid Travel for an 8- day National Geographic Kenya safari trip or 8-day Kenya family safari, respectively. Kenya and Tanzania camping safari is also an excellent option if you travel from July to October to experience the great wildebeest migration between the two countries.

Places to stay in Kenya with kids

A comfortable and safe place is vital when choosing accommodation. You need to keep your children happy all the time to keep them interested in the vacation. Swimming pools, kid’s programs, and clubs are vital when selecting a lodge or a hotel. If you travelled to Swaziland or South Africa, getting a safe hotel can be a problem because most do not accept children under 6 years. Luckily, most lodges and hotels have no problem hosting kids of any age.

What to consider before choosing a lodge for Kenya family safari

• It must be a fenced property- kids need to be prevented from wandering in the wilderness, and fences protect against roaming animals.
• Swimming pools and play areas are vital
• Is the lodge a hotspot for wild animals? For instance, does it have a borehole where animals come to drink water?

Best family hotels in Kenya

Sarova mara game camp.

Sarova Mara Game Camp is in the famous Maasai Mara and offers spacious, well-designed luxury tents. It is an ideal big-scale family lodge with swimming pools for kids and a restaurant serving international dishes. Sarova Camp is a nice place to rest as you anticipate early morning safari rides in the Maasai Mara National Park.

Kizingo is located along the sandy Kizingo beach in Lamu Island. Its thatched-roofed chalets face the Indian Ocean providing a scenic view of the waters. Kizingo offers visitors a serene place for guests to unwind, and kids will enjoy playing on their verandah and sleeping in the swing beds.

Lake Nakuru Lodge

Lake Nakuru Lodge is located inside the Lake Nakuru National Park. The lodge has well-maintained rooms, a swimming pool, and bushes and forests, making it easier to spot animals. The balcony allows a perfect view of the flamingo-filled lake. 

Villa Mandhari

Villa Mandhari is located in Diani Beach, a serene place some few meters away from the Indian Ocean. It is a favourite place for kids to hand out and swim in the ocean or play on the sandy beaches. The facility is modern, providing visitors with spacious villas to stay in at affordable prices. The outside pools are kids’ favourite places to hang out and have huge spaces to lounge.

The Emakoko

Emakoko is a scenic lodge surrounded by savannah, making families feel like they are in the wilderness. It provides families with a spacious family cottage. Its location is a few minutes drive from Nairobi National Park’s east gate. It is an ideal place to stay and explore Nairobi City.

What to eat in Kenya with kids

Safari lodge serves international dishes comprising various cuisines from all over the world. Kenya has diverse communities, and each tribe has their unique dishes. Your family can enjoy sampling different Kenyan foods, especially in the coastal region.

Main Kenyan dishes to try

• Ugali –is one of the staple foods in Kenya and can be categorised as cornmeal. It is served with vegetables and meat (beef stew, fish, goat or chicken, among others).
• Nyama Choma – is the Swahili word for roasted meat. It can be Kuku Choma (roasted chicken), Mbuzi Choma (roasted goat), Ng’ombe Choma (Beef choma), or samaki Choma(roasted fish). A hearty meal you do not want to miss is nyama choma prepared in a barbeque.
• Irio is prepared differently in various communities but commonly comprise a mash of potatoes, peas, and corn. It is served with a Kenyan meat stew or nyama choma.
• Kenyan stew – is one of the top Kenyan meals one should look forward to. The stew is prepared with beef, chicken or goat and can be served with ugali or rice.
• Kenyan pilau rice is prepared with rice where several spices such as cinnamon, cardamon, cloves and cumin are added to make it tasty.

Things to do in Kenya with Kids

Visit the nairobi national park.

Nairobi National Park is a 15-minutes drive from the city centre. It is a haven for hundreds of animals, including lions, cheetahs, leopards, monkeys, zebras, giraffes and tigers. It is ideal for a safari day, especially when you do not want to take your children out of the city. It is easier to spot wildlife within a close range of the acacia bushes and grass plains under the guidance of a tour guide.

Maasai Mara

Maasai Mara is a world-famous national reserve and a magnificent safari destination. It is famous for the great migration when wildebeests, zebras and gazelles cross the Mara River from Tanzania. Mara’s scenic expanse borders the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to the south, and they both lie along the Great Rift Valley. It hosts thousands of animals, including the big five. It is easier to spot animals in Mara Park regardless of the season you have visited.

Another package to look out for is the hot air balloon rides at the Maasai Mara. It is exciting for kids to go for hot air ballooning over the Maasai Mara to see the entire serenity from above. Your family can enjoy a hearty breakfast from the bush. You can book for a safari day and hot air balloon experience for one day and let the kids get the best from their trip. 

David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

David Sheldrick Wildlife Conservancy rehabilitates orphaned elephants under 2 years and raises them. Seeing the elephants so close is one of the favourite activities for any kid. If you are lucky, baby elephants will get close to you, and the kids learn so much about elephants. You can book a day tour at the elephant orphanage for your kids at affordable prices.

Bomas of Kenya

 Bomas of Kenya is not far away from Nairobi city centre, just 10 kilometres away. It is a top cultural destination with a traditional village comprising several homesteads (Bomas). The tourist destination celebrates various tribes of Kenya through cultural activities such as traditional dancing, acrobatic shows and music festivals that kids can enjoy watching.

Lake Nakuru

Lake Nakuru is an excellent place to take the kids for a relaxed setting as they watch thousands of flamingoes on top of the alkaline waters. The lake is located on the floor of the Rift Valley, and its surrounding landscape of grasslands and woodlands is perfect for hiking, family picnic and game drives. It is also a haven for birds that migrates from Europe to escape the cold, and kids can spot them in the surrounding bushes.

Visit Diani Beach

Diani Beach has a long stretch of soft white sand where kids can play and relax. It’s an excellent place to go kayaking, snorkelling and ocean swimming. After days of endless safari and hiking, Diani Beach is the place for your children to be.

Amboseli National Park

If you did not make it to Maasai Mara, you could visit the second top national park in Kenya, the Amboseli. Amboseli National Park is crowned by the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, and its picturesque landscapes. Kids can enjoy an up-close range of elephants, spot other wild animals in the vast plains of the savannah, and take pictures of the elephants or the snowy peaks of the mountain.

Visiting the Giraffe Center

Giraffe Center is located in Nairobi and hosts endangered Rothschild’s giraffe. It combines rehabilitation with fun activities for children. You can feed a giraffe or let it kiss your hand from a wooden structure. It is an incredible experience for visitors who visit the conservancy.

Visit a Maasai Village

Maasai is a Kenyan nomadic community that holds on to its traditions to date. They live in the savannah plains, grazing their livestock and setting up their settlements. Places like the Maasai Mara are known as the land of the Maasai people because they are the main communities in these areas. The Maasai men were brave warriors and killed lions to indicate their strength and manhood from ancient times. The Maasai community is recognisable from their pierced ears, bearded jewellery and red robes, which they also sell to the tourists. Your kids can learn a lot about the culture and buy a robe or a piece of jewellery.

UNESCO Lamu Island

UNESCO Lamu Island is a well-maintained Swahili settlement established way back in the 14th century. Lamu’s architectural features attract visitors who want to learn about the trading history among the Indians, Persians, Portuguese and the Omani. Kids can enjoy donkey rides as it is the primary mode of transport as they wander in the old town enjoying the spectacular old buildings.

Watamu Marine National Park

Watamu Marine Park is the most-sought after destination that offers visitors marine activities like snorkelling and camping. Children can dive into the coral reefs found in the park. After a long day of adventure, the family can rest on the Watamu sandy beach in the evening. Watamu Marine National Parks makes an excellent destination for water babies.

Budget Travel in Kenya

You will need to budget for the following to travel Kenya with kids

• Accommodation fees
• Transport costs, including pick off and pick up to and from the airport
• Budget for safari- ensure you visit each official lodge website to get accurate estimates

Cost of travel in Kenya

Travelling in Kenya is relatively affordable. Using a lodge road package is less costly than hiring a driver or renting a car. Food is also cheap whether you decide to dine at the lodge or buy from a restaurant. However, Kenya family safari packages for several days can be slightly more expensive than a day safari. National parks entrance fees are other significant fees that you may find a little higher. Adults and children are charged differently, with grown-ups paying more than kids. The entrance fees are charged per head but do not apply for kids under 3years. Keep in mind that lodges differ in their policies, and it is essential to check official websites to ensure you have the correct information.

Tips to travelling Kenya with Kids

• Kenya is a developing country with world-class wildlife, beautiful sceneries and diverse culture. Yet, it is recommendable to manage your expectations to accommodate the differences between various continents.
• You can buy takeaway foods at petrol stations or use clean toilets in curio shops along the highway. They can be pushy at times, but you must decline politely, and they will leave you in peace. You are not obligated to purchase anything against your wishes.
• Watch out for your kids around the city; they can easily get lost in the crowd and be aware of pickpockets that laze around the town.
• Come prepared for emergencies because travel with kids can be unpredictable.

The bottom line

Trips or holidays to a new country are the best way to get your kids out of their comfort and let them try new things and explore nature. Game viewing and abundant wildlife make Kenya an excellent place to enthral the kids. Hopefully, this guide will help you make new and meaningful experiences when you go on a Kenya trip.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Travelling Toddlers

Tips for travelling with a toddler

Kenya is a popular travel destination for families, and there are several places that are perfect for traveling with a toddler. Here are some of the popular destinations in Kenya for families with toddlers:

• Nairobi: Kenya’s capital city has several child-friendly attractions, including the Nairobi National Park, which is home to a wide range of wildlife, and the Giraffe Centre, where toddlers can get up close and personal with the gentle giants.
• Mombasa: This coastal city is a popular beach destination and is home to several child-friendly resorts, such as the Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa, which has a children’s pool and a kids’ club.
• Maasai Mara: This national reserve is a great place to take your toddler on a safari adventure. Many lodges and camps in the area offer child-friendly activities, such as nature walks and cultural experiences.
• Lake Nakuru: This lake is home to thousands of flamingos and is a great place to take your toddler to see these pink birds up close.
• Mount Kenya: This mountain is not just for seasoned hikers. There are several child-friendly activities in the area, such as horse riding and nature walks.

Remember to always prioritize your child’s safety and comfort when traveling with a toddler. It’s always a good idea to consult with your doctor before traveling and to pack essential items such as sunscreen, insect repellent, and appropriate clothing.

Mombasa with Toddler

Mombasa with Toddler If you’re planning a family vacation to Mombasa, Kenya, you’re in for a treat. This coastal city has plenty of attractions that cater to both adults and …

• WHERE TO GO
• WHERE TO STAY
• EPIC HOTELS
• DIY HOLIDAY ITINERARIES
• WORLDSCHOOLING
• PHILIPPINES
• MALAYSIA ITINERARIES
• THAILAND ITINERARIES
• BALI ITINERARIES
• CAMBODIA ITINERARIES
• VIETNAM ITINERARIES
• ISRAEL ITINERARIES
• JORDAN ITINERARIES
• FAMILY FRIENDLY HOTELS
• FLYING WITH KIDS
• BUDGET TRAVEL TIPS
• BEST TRAVEL GEAR
• BUDGET HOTELS
• LUXURY HOTELS
• VILLAS WITH PRIVATE POOLS

KENYA , TRAVEL DESTINATIONS | , WHERE TO GO

What is it like to travel kenya with kids in 2024 .

Table of Contents

Meet the Ongera family. They are excited to share top tips and inside secrets for travelling in Kenya with kids in 2024. Peter, Veronica and their 3 beautiful kids are from Kisii county in Kenya and are excited to share their local expertise with the community.

Right: Peter and friends Emily and Chad in Kenya. Left: Pete’s wife Veronica with their daughter Natalia and their friend Emily. If you would like to connect with Peter check out his facebook page .

What is it like traveling in Kenya?

Transport is up and running as normal in Kenya with no restrictions. There are three International airports: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, Moi International in Mombasa and Eldoret International in Eldoret. There are also two domestic airports; Wilson and Kisumu. There are also over 250 airstrips enabling connections to remote rural parts of the country.

Taxis are plentiful outside main hotels,shopping arcades and central city points. There are also app operated taxis like Uber, Bolt and Little. This assures a fair price and speeds up the process of getting a taxi. 

Buses operate long-distance and mini buses (called “matatus”) operate on short city routes. Several morning and evening commuter trains connect Nairobi city center with the suburbs.There are passenger train services between Nairobi and Mombasa (second largest city) and Kisumu( third largest city). Most international car hire companies are represented in Kenya.

What are the restrictions like in Kenya? 

At present there are no mandatory COVID protocols. There are no special restrictions. There is voluntary testing, masking and isolation. Restaurants, shops are open during the day. Restaurants can run till midnight. Government and some company offices remain closed during public holidays and weekends.

What is it like traveling in Kenya with kids?

If you are traveling in Kenya with kids you can expect a warm welcome. Kenyans are extremely polite and helpful and visitors will hear Swahili words “Jambo” (hello) and “Hakuna matata” (no worries). In respect to local customs, it is considered courteous to ask people if you may take their picture before doing so, particularly in more remote areas. A small token for the photograph may be expected, as a form of polite appreciation. It is easy to buy things you need. There are several supermarkets in towns and shops in the villages. Kenya has a tropical sunny climate all year round with long rains in April to June,short rains from October to December. Remember to bring sun protection (factor 50 sunscreen and sun hats) and drink plenty of fluids. 

Recommended family travel itinerary in Kenya with kids

Kenya really is a remarkable country with SO MUCH to offer. Kenya has it all. Waterfalls, jungles, mountains, lakes and grasslands. Not to mention the incredible biodiversity. If you are travelling Kenya with kids be prepared for a wild, exciting and intrepid trip.

This 10 day itinerary for Kenya with Kids will show you and your family the wild side of Kenya with lakes, mountains and grasslands. 

• Nairobi 3 days: Visit the Giraffe center and the famous giraffe manor (the iconic breakfast is really expensive!). Also visit the Karura forest – beautiful trekking and waterfalls. 
• Mount Kenya National Park 3 days: Trekking, camping and taking in the stunning scenery
• Lake Nakuru 2 days: Wildlife watching and take a boat trip on the lake. Amazing clouds of pink flamingos! 
• Maasai Mara National Reserve 2 days: For the real safari experience try camping at the Maasai Mara National Reserve. 

You may need to add a few additional days to this itinerary (especially if you are travelling Kenya with kids) – consider travel days and rest days.

Things you need to know before traveling Kenya with kids

Casual, lightweight and comfortable clothing is advisable as is strong, comfortable footwear. You may need a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings,or if you are spending time in the highlands. Binoculars, sunscreen, wide brimmed hats and insect repellents are recommended.

You may also be interested to read about travelling Tanzania with kids

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies
• Privacy Policy

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. More information about our Privacy Policy

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

More information about our Privacy Policy

• 0 Shopping Cart €  0,00 -->

Travelling with a Toddler in Kenya

Our tried-and-tested tips for a stress-free safari

One of the most common hesitations we hear from parents considering whether to travel with small children is, ..“But they’re never going to remember it!”

To this, we say – it’s something that you will remember as a family highlight for the rest of your life! On top of that, it will positively impact your little one’s development + you’ll have incredible family photos! 

Our daughter, Aurélie , was just one-and-a-half when we embarked on our ‘wild parenting’ safari in Kenya . She wasn’t even the youngest traveler we encountered whilst there, that prize went to a three-week-old we met at Emboo Camp. 

While traveling with a toddler is easier than you probably think (yes, even in Africa), there are some small things that can make a big difference: 

Don’t overdo the packing – you’d be surprised by how much you can get in Kenya – including diapers, and all the same formula brands available worldwide. 

A game-changer for us was booking a night flight, so that Aurelie could sleep on the plane. Having a young child at the airport is actually a perk, as you can often skip the queue! Also when we took the direct flight from Nanyuki, near The Safari Series in Lolldaiga Hills Private Game Reserve to Emboo Camp  in the Maasai Mara , Aurélie was delighted to be able to sit up front, next to the pilot.  

Once on Kenyan soil, plan your car trips or transfers for a maximum of three hours. Most toddlers are fine sitting for this long, but start getting wiggly for anything longer. Just remember to order a car seat in advance, as this isn’t something that Kenyans typically use! 🙂

As for game drives, Aurélie soon became very comfortable on the Land Rovers and Land Cruisers,  simply making a little nest on the back or front to sleep when she got tired of the game viewing.

A fun thing you must know is that as soon as you arrive at your destination, everyone’s focus will be on your child! So you’ll have lots of support wherever needed from the very helpful and friendly African staff! This kind of attention and affection from strangers is also great for raising a confident, sociable child we find. 

At the sustainable and socially-conscious Emboo, the female rangers Emily and Nas immediately became Aurélie’s caring Kenyan sisters at this unique home-away-from-home. At the family-friendly Safari Series, she made fast friends with an amazing ranger, James , who showed her his traditional Samburu outfits and let her drive the Land Rover on his lap even! 

Another highlight for Aurélie here was the makeshift ‘bathtub’ the lodge staff created for her from a bucket strategically placed outside on the deck of the tent, where bathing under the stars was a great adventure for her. 

The biggest adventure of all, though, was seeing the incredible wildlife for the very first time. A highlight for us all was Aurélie’s close encounter with a giraffe, which gazed at her through a window at the exclusive Giraffe Manor Boutique Hotel in Nairobi . It’s no surprise that this destination needs to be booked at least a year in advance, especially for those wanting to travel during the school holidays. 

The last (but certainly not least) place we stayed that was perfect for Aurélie was ZumZum Beachhouse , the spectacular private beach house on Diani Beach . 

With its 28 km of soft, white sand and slow, gentle ocean, Diani Beach was the perfect place for Aurélie to learn to swim. She also figured out pretty quickly where coconuts come from, and would point up the palm trees and say ‘num num’ whenever she wanted one! 

Back at the beach house, dedicated staff are available to assist with everything you need from 06:00 to 18:00 everyday. After that, you have the privacy of the place to yourself for the evening. Breakfast and lunch are prepared for you each day, and there are a myriad of wonderful restaurants on the beach itself (either within walking or easy tuk tuk distance). As Diani Beach is a single strip, it’s easy to find your way around. 

Four restaurants we particularly enjoyed were The Salty Squid Beach Bar and Restaurant, Nomad Beach Bar and Restaurant, Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant, and Tiki Bar – all of which have everything that you and your child could want! 

We were at ZumZum on Valentine’s Day, and the lovely manager suggested that they babysit Aurelie so we could go out for the night. We ended up having a wonderfully romantic evening, and are so grateful for this above-and-beyond gesture! We were also able to relax on the other evenings, as an ‘askari’ (Swahili for security guard) was stationed outside the room, listening in through the canvas to let us know if Aurelie woke up at any point. The cherry on the top of an all-round family-friendly experience! 

Inspired to plan your own unforgettable, all-ages getaway to Kenya ?

Contact us to discuss your unique dreams and needs!

Share this entry

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share on WhatsApp
• Share on Pinterest
• Share on LinkedIn

Stay in touch!

Email Address *

Testimonials

Why we create safaris..

7 Things To Do In Kenya With Kids

Imagine taking your kids on vacation to a place where they can kiss a giraffe, spot a lion roaming the savannah from afar, and play in pristine waters while a few local monkeys jump between trees! 

This is exactly the kind of experience you’ll enjoy in Kenya!

Now, a common question families ask is whether Kenya is a family-friendly destination.

And the answer is that Kenya has significantly improved its infrastructure over the last few years, making it an excellent destination for families. The country offers many family-friendly activities, from safari tours and hikes in natural parks to snorkeling and sailing adventures.

Got you intrigued?

To help you plan an unforgettable trip or get your kids interested in visiting one day, here are seven things to do in Kenya with kids.

Go On A Safari

This is the quintessential Kenyan experience, so we had to start this post with a Kenya safari tour.

The stunning East African country is home to a wide range of wild animals, from giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest to cheetahs and even panthers! But what most travelers and families are after when traveling to the Kenyan savannah is a sight of one of the “Big Five”: the East African lion, the Cape buffalo, the African elephant, the black rhinoceros, and the leopard.

They’re called the “Big Five” because early hunters considered these five species the most challenging and dangerous to hunt.

Taking your kids on a safari in one of the many stunning Kenyan reserves and parks will make for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and allow you to create unforgettable memories together.

Visit The AFEW Giraffe Center

The AFEW Giraffe Center is located in Lang’ata, which is a 20 mn drive from the capital, Nairobi. The center opened its doors in 1979 and was originally founded to save a particular subspecies of the giraffe; the Rothschild giraffe. 

After saving two young giraffes, Daisy and Marlon, from poachers, the team decided to bring them to the center, where passionate volunteers raised the calves. Today, the center welcomes visitors from all around the world to teach them all about the Rothschild giraffe and the importance of animals for the ecosystem. 

Not only is the center a great way to teach your kids about wildlife, nature, and the importance of protecting animals, but visiting this unique sanctuary is also a fantastic way to support the conservation efforts of the team.

And guess what?

Your children might even be able to kiss a giraffe during their visit! Pretty cool, right?

Dance With The Maasai

Did you know that the Maasai tribe is one of the oldest tribes populating East Africa? The first mention of the tribe dates back as far as the 15th century!

Including the visit of a Maasai village to your trip is a no-brainer if you want to immerse yourself into the country’s traditions and culture and enjoy an authentic experience. 

The Maasai people still live in their old ways respecting their traditions and proudly wearing their famous red, purple and blue shukas. And this is an incredibly enriching experience for adults and children wanting to learn more about Kenyan tribes and their way of life.

What’s more, the Maasai people still perform a welcome dance when greeting visitors, and you might even be able to join in as you step into their village!

How’s that for an authentic Kenyan experience?

Witness The Great Wildebeest Migration

If you can plan your family holiday in Kenya in August, we’d recommend that you do it.

Every year, from August to October, millions of wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras travel from the Serengeti area in Tanzania to the Maasai Mara region in southwestern Kenya in a quest for water and nutritious grass. The migration is the largest herd movement of animals on Earth and is so impressive that it can even be seen from space!

Naturally, the passage of so many wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles also draws famished predators such as lions, crocodiles, or cheetahs to join the show and try to score dinner.

Visit The Gedi Ruins

Gedi is a small historic town located 95 km (59 miles) north of Mombasa. It was founded in the 15th century by the Swahili people, who only used rocks and stones to build it. The place was listed as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1927, and the careful preservation of the town allows visitors to still admire the village’s original foundations to this day. 

Once there, you’ll be able to see some tombs, the ruins of century-old Swahili homes, the Great Mosque, and the « Well of the Great Mosque », which was most likely used for ablutions. And you’ll also discover a fifteenth-century palace.

Gedi ruins make for a truly inspiring and exciting trip back in time!

Swim At Diani Beach

With its long stretch of powdered sand, luxuriant palm trees, crystal clear waters, and spectacular coral reef, Diani Beach is the perfect spot to spend a day with the kids.

There are plenty of activities in Diani Beach for families. 

Along with swimming, snorkeling, and fishing, you will be able to hop onto a bike tour and even spot some local monkeys lazing around in the trees at the nearby Gongoni Forest Reserve! 

And if you’re in for a little cultural visit during your time at Diani Beach, head to the nearby Kongo Mosque. It was built in the 15th century and is really worth seeing. And so are the beautiful gardens surrounding the site and their incredible baobab trees.

Hop Onto A Dhow Cruise

A dhow is a sailing boat mainly found in the Indian Ocean region that used to be used to transport goods. They are easily recognizable by their settee sails and lengthy hull. 

Instead of letting these authentic ships disappear, Kenyans now offer visitors sailing tours aboard one of these beautiful vessels. This allows travelers to experience the beauty of the Kenyan isles that make up the stunning Lamu archipelago at their own pace. 

Watching the sun rise or set aboard a dhow is truly magical.

Want To Get Your Kids Curious About Kenya?

One of the best ways to spark your kid’s interest in a specific country is to teach them a little bit about the country in a fun and engaging way. 

And for that, we have exactly what you need!

 At  The Landmark Kids , we believe culture and geography are essential because they allow your children to get a global perspective on the world around them. That’s why, every month, we design mystery subscription boxes for children aged between 9 and 13+. These mystery boxes are all about getting your kids to explore a new country by solving clues, puzzles, and mysteries. 

And this month, our mystery box is about Kenya!

Sound like an exciting adventure?  Sign up now  and get your subscription box mailed right to your door! We look forward to having you embark on The Landmark Kids adventure and travel to faraway lands from the comfort of your own home!

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Opens in a new window.

Guide to a Kenya Safari with Kids

Kenya is home to some of the world’s majestic animals, including the Big 5, spread across vast savannah’s, with spectacular mountain backdrops, acacia trees and traditional Maasai villages. It’s because of these factors that an East African safari is considered by many to be the trip of a lifetime, but what if you are going on a Kenya safari with kids?

We are often asked if spending time on a safari is suitable for children. If so, which age range, is it safe, and how long is too long on a game drive? In our guide to a Kenya safari with kids below, we answer these questions and more.

How to plan a Kenya Family Safari

A major key to a successful family safari in Kenya is to research before you go. Booking with a reputable tour operator, or one that has a base in Kenya is advisable. They can help you navigate local cultures, will have knowledge of suitable safari lodges, camps, and hotels (some of which only take children over a certain age), and they can help to prepare you for what a safari entails, giving you information and advice on the best trips to experience as a family.

Are Kenya Safari’s Appropriate for Kids?

If you are travelling to Kenya with young kids, consider the type of safari you wish to book. A private tour with customised, open-sided vehicles allows children to view the animals easily, while out on a game drive. Another tip is to keep the safari drives short.

Full-day safari’s which aren’t broken up with other activities, may render young children restless. Realistically, children between the ages of 6-8 or higher are the ideal ages to take on a safari. Not only will they appreciate the animals and landscapes they see, but they will also remember the experience for years to come.

Is it Safe to Travel to Kenya with Kids?

Kenya is a great country to travel to with kids, especially if you have booked with a tour operator that specialises in family safari travel. They can make life so much easier for you, by advising on family-friendly lodges with swimming pools and activities, located in safe surroundings, organising airport collections, and booking excursions and suitable game drives.

Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge

Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge is the first safari lodge ever built in a Kenya National Park and is superbly situated in the largest national park in Kenya - Tsavo West National Park. Strategically located midway between the Kenyan capital city Nairobi and its coastal town of Mombasa, only about 3 hours’ drive from each.

Sweetwaters Serena Camp

Sweetwaters Serena Camp is located inside Ol Pejeta Conservancy. It offers a tranquil respite in the wild, with en-suite bathrooms, free WiFi and a private balcony or veranda. Begin or end your day with a delicious meal and superb views at our light-filled restaurant, enjoy a guided game drive on the conservancy, indulge in a massage in our treatment room or simply relax by the pool.

Ashnil Mara Camp

Ashnil Mara Camp is located in the Masai Mara National Reserve and close to the Mara River, famous for the wildebeest migration.Our luxury Masai Mara Camp is arguably in one of the very best positions in the Masai Mara for game viewing and also provides the perfect setting to sit and relax at the end of an exciting day of game drives. The Ashnil Mara Camp is a 4 – 5 hour drive from Nairobi or there are daily scheduled flights from Nairobi to the Masai Mara which take just 45 mins. You may also fly from the Mombasa Coast to our luxury tented camp in just 2 hrs.

Best Time to go on a Family Safari

Any time of the year is a good time to travel to Kenya for a family safari. However, most visitors prefer to travel during dry season which is typically from late December to early March or late June to October. The scarcity of rain during these months sees animals flock to the watering holes in National Parks, meaning kids won’t have to wait long before they come into view on a game drive.

In August, the annual wildebeest migration reaches the Masai Mara . If you want to see them crossing the river on their return to the Serengeti , plan your trip for early September time.

Travelling during wet season between March and May or during November until late December is also rewarding. Newborn animals can be seen during these months, scenery is lush and green and rates for lodges and flight prices are lower.

How Long is too Long on a Safari with Kids?

Most safari game drives take place in the early hours of the morning or late afternoon/evening. These are the best times to observe wildlife seeking out food and water. A game drive will usually last 3-4 hours, and this is just enough time for kids before they begin to get restless.

If you are travelling with young children, plan just one game drive a day, then the rest of the day can be spent enjoying other activities. If your lodge/camp/hotel has a swimming pool for example, it gives everyone in the family a chance to relax and unwind. Another alternative is to choose accommodations located next to a watering hole, then you can view the animals at any time, without spending hours in a vehicle.

What Activities are There for Kids on a Kenya Safari?

Where to begin! There are so many activities for kids to enjoy on a Kenya safari and beyond. We have listed a few below for inspiration, so you can begin to plan your itinerary.

Meet the Big Five Kenya Safari

Price From $ 1,820 USD

On this exciting 6-day safari you will first head north into the foothills of Mount Kenya and the celebrated Ol Pejeta Conservancy. One of the most successful privately-run conservancies in Kenya and

Lakes and Plains of Kenya Safari

Price From $ 1,680 USD

Taking in the icons of safari in Africa, this tour will show the wonders of the Masai Mara National Reserve, explore the lakes of the Rift Valley, and show you the wonders of Amboseli National Park. T

Experience Kenya Family Safari

Price From $ 2,240 USD

Perfect for families and groups of friends, this Kenya family safari winds its way through the great parks and past the great lakes of Kenya. All the animals of your dreams are roaming wild through th

Safari Game Drives

Kids will enjoy observing and learning about the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos. There are also giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, flamingos, and lots of exotic birdlife to see on a game drive. If you travel to Kenya with kids during the annual wildebeest migration, you will see tens of thousands of them crossing the river, to and from the Masai Mara – a natural spectacle you won’t see anywhere else on earth.

Guided Nature and Bird Watching with Kids

Some tour operators and lodges can organise guided bush walks, along walking trails with experts who can point out birdlife, wildlife and plants and flowers of Kenya.

Visit the Local Homesteads with Children on a Kenya Safari

Older children may be interested in learning about other cultures, and the perfect introduction is to visit a Masai homestead. They can learn how the Masai tribespeople live, how to track animals, discover what they eat, a little about the crafts they make and more.

Tree Planting with the Children on Safari at Amboseli, Kenya

All journey’s leave a carbon footprint, and to offset yours, you can become an eco-conscious ambassador for the wildlife by helping locals and other tourists plant trees in Amboseli National Park. The saplings planted are all indigenous species, helping to continuously provide food for the animals.

Kenya Horse-Back Safaris with Your Children

A peaceful way to see wild animals on safari as a family, is on a horseback riding trip in the Masai Mara or around Mount Kenya. Some tour operators and lodges offer riding excursions, some of which are suitable for older children with riding skills.

Masai Mara Hot Air Balloon Ride with Children

At sunrise, soar high above the savannah on a thrilling hot air balloon ride. See the animals as they frequent the watering holes, giraffes feeding from trees and elephants as they navigate the huge expanse of land. These trips may only be suitable for older children, therefore it’s wise to check before you book.

Kids Watching Dolphins at Kisite Marine National Park

If you plan to combine your Kenya safari with a few days at the beach, head to Kisite Marine National Park for dolphin watching. You can sail on a traditional dhow boat through waters to see dolphins playing in their natural ocean habitat.

Let Your Kids Visit Orphaned Elephants as You Adopt One

In Nairobi National Park, there’s a shelter for orphaned elephants called the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Kids will adore spending a few hours here, learning about the elephants, the work they do at the centre, and you can even adopt an elephant or two, helping staff feed and care for them throughout the year.

Feed the Rothschild Giraffes with Your Kids

Learn all about Rothschild Giraffes at the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi. Educators will talk to you about the endangered species, you can walk along the nature trail or even head to the feeding platform to hand over food to these majestic creatures and see them up close.

Stargazing on Safari in Kenya

There’s no better place to stargaze than in the Masai Mara or Amboseli National Park in Kenya. The night skies are unpolluted and clear, as the region is populated mainly by animals, with fewer humans. You can have a front row seat of the Milky Way and abundant constellations, almost to yourselves.

These are only a few of the activities to enjoy on a family safari in Kenya, there are many more. Feel free to contact us for further information or to book a trip today.

Leave A Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

ADVANTAGES OF BOOKING WITH FLASHMC TOURS

Personalized service by travel experts with first-hand knowledge

Customizable tours to your preference

400+ 5-star TripAdvisor and Google reviews

Booking Security - Money - back guarantee & 24/7 support

Our Partners and Booking Security

Africa FlashMc Tours and Travel is a member of Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO), membership code: No.AS/687. KATO is one of the key tourism trade associations in Kenya, representing the interests of over 400 of the most experienced professional tour operators in Kenya. As a member, our services have been checked and are bound by the Code of Conduct to provide the highest possible quality of service to their clients. The scheme is insured to guarantee your holiday safari in the unlikely event that a bonded KATO member ceases operating.

Request a Callback

Enter your details below to request a call back and we will get back in touch as soon as possible.

• City or Town*

Personal Details

Travel details, contact details, tell us about yourself, details of children, destinations, travel with us.

• Our vehicles
• Accommodation
• All safari tours
• Ask a question
• Call us: +254 726 042 070

Flash McTours and Travel

Click one of our representatives below to chat on WhatsApp

14 things you need to know before traveling to Kenya

Nov 21, 2023 • 7 min read

Make the most of your travel through Kenya with these practical tips © Bartosz Hadyniak / Getty Images

Think of Kenya and your mind instantly fills with exquisite scenes of safari jeeps and beautiful beaches lapped by the Indian Ocean. 

But the incredible experiences stretch beyond Kenya's natural landscapes –  Nairobi offers exciting urban and cultural encounters, too.

Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of a trip to this East African nation, from clothing and etiquette to safety and visas.

1. Check the visa requirements for Kenya

Many nationalities need to obtain a visa before departing for Kenya. Check the  official visa website and allow time to complete your application. Random checks can mean extra questions for some travelers, even after submission and payment.

You won’t receive an email confirmation of your Kenya visa application or payment, so you need to log in to check its status. Once issued, print a color copy (or two) of the visa and payment and keep them on hand, even for domestic flights, such as between Nairobi and Mombasa.

The good news for citizens of African countries is visas for Kenya will be a thing of the past next year. The Kenyan President, William Ruto, recently announced that visa requirements will end for all African nations by the end of 2023.

Proof of a COVID-19 vaccination and a negative PCR test is no longer required to enter Kenya. However, travelers exhibiting flu-like symptoms will be required to take a PCR test and fill out a passenger locator form.

2. Pack smart for Kenya – it’s not always hot

Early morning safaris can be chilly, so it’s wise to take layers for a trip to Kenya. Similarly, temperatures can drop at night in the highlands. Fleeces and even windproof waterproofs are recommended.

On the other hand, staying cool is key by the coast or in the city. Pack cool, breathable fabrics and always cover up in the midday sun.

3. Leave your plastics at home

Kenya banned single-use plastic bags in 2017, so leave any carrier bags (and preferably single-use plastic water bottles and straws) at home. The bag ban is countrywide – luggage is often scanned, so don’t pack shoes or other items in plastic bags.

Single-use plastic bottles and straws are banned in national parks – bring a reusable water bottle from home. 

4. Do you need malaria tablets for Kenya? Probably.

The risk of malaria is low in Nairobi, and in the highlands above 2500m (8200ft), but you should still avoid being bitten. The majority of Kenya falls into a malarial zone, so take advice on which antimalarial is best suited to you between atovaquone/proguanil, doxycycline or mefloquine.

Brand names you might be more familiar with include Malarone and Lariam, but check with your physician, pharmacy or travel clinic. Ideally do this a month in advance of your trip, as you may have to begin taking the pills some time before your trip begins.

5. Greet people with “ mambo ” or “ niaje ”

“ Jambo ” is the best-known greeting in this fantastically friendly country, but if you want to show off your sheng (a Swahili and English combo originating among Nairobi’s younger population), try greeting people with “ mambo vipi .” The common reply is “ poa .” Alternatively, say “ niaje ,” to which someone will reply with “ niaje .”

6. Feel free to bargain, but don’t go too far

A sense of humor is essential when bargaining. It’s fine to offer a lower price in markets and some shops – many sellers will start with a higher price, and it can be fun to barter and meet in the middle.

Few sellers will accept an offer that's too low so have some fun with it – just bear in mind what you’re prepared to pay, be respectful and don’t over-haggle.

7. Leaving a tip goes down a treat

Tipping isn’t expected in Kenya, but if you’ve had a good meal or service, leaving around 10% is appreciated. In hotels, you can also tip porters and housekeeping staff. Some calculate it at Ksh100 to Ksh200 a day while others round it up at the end. Keep small change on you for tips and shopping in markets.

If you’re taking a taxi, round up to the nearest 100, but tips are not always necessary. Taxi apps are popular, and you can add a tip at the end of the journey through the app. Avoid giving money in exchange for preferential service.

8. Be respectful of local communities

Never take photos of people without asking permission, particularly in rural areas and in Mombasa . If you want to publish any photos, even on social media, it’s respectful to carry a consent form and say “ asante ” (thank you).

Be particularly conscious around children or other vulnerable people. If you’re given the OK to take a photo, show it to them after you've taken it. Think twice before visiting a school (or anywhere that would be strange or inappropriate for you to go to in your home country).

Also note: anyone taking photos of infrastructure, airports and the military may come under suspicion.

9. Dress appropriately – but don’t overthink it

Kenya is moderately conservative, but that doesn’t mean you need to cover your shoulders and knees everywhere. In Nairobi, in towns and on safari, shorts, dresses and sleeveless tops are fine to wear, and the same goes for most beach resorts , although walking around in swimwear isn’t appropriate.

In Muslim communities such as Lamu Town, dressing more conservatively is advised. Loose clothing can be more comfortable in the heat.

10. Don’t rush – go with the flow

It’s misleading to suggest the whole of Kenya operates on some slower “Kenya time” – Nairobi can have the same pace and rhythm as any major city. But the heat and humidity of the coastal areas, around Mombasa, Malindi and Lamu for example, can mean life needs to be lived at a more relaxed pace.

Bear that in mind before expecting certain tasks and services to be carried out immediately, and instead, go with the flow and enjoy a pole pole  (“slowly” in Swahili) way of life.

11. You can boil the tap water in Kenya and drink it

Tap water in Kenya isn’t off-limits. If you have the facilities, you can boil the tap water – it’s soft and sweet – and drink it once cooled.

Obviously, that's not always an option, in which case filtered water in restaurants and hotels is safe. You can buy plastic-bottled water, but it’s obviously a lot more ecofriendly to bring your own reusable bottle and water filter or tablets. 

12. Pack a power bank

Power cuts in Kenya can occur (they’re usually not for long), so if you rely on your smartphone, take a power bank and ensure it’s always charged. Take a spare camera battery if you're going on safari – and a decent flashlight is helpful in case of power cuts but also when walking around the safari camp at night.

In addition to helping you navigate in low light, it will help you look out for insects and snakes. Headlamps are especially handy on a campsite for reading and for nighttime bathroom trips.

13. Don’t be scared by headlines, but know your geography

People often ask, “Is Kenya safe for tourists?” Few incidents involve tourists, especially in game reserves and tourist areas, but there are a few areas it's better to avoid.

These include but are not limited to, within 60km (37 miles) of the Kenya-Somalia border, Garissa County and Lamu County (excluding Lamu Island and Manda Island – travel by air if you're planning a visit).

Check the latest guidelines from your government before traveling. In Nairobi, as with any major city, keep valuables safe and your wits about you.

14. Keep embassy and consulate details to hand

Wherever you’re from, it’s savvy to know the contact details of your embassy or consulate. Take photos of your passport, visa and other documents, so you can access them on your phone or email.

Carry an original form of ID if possible. A driver's license is useful if you don’t want to carry your passport with you every day.

This article was first published March 2022 and updated November 2023

Explore related stories

Wildlife & Nature

Feb 20, 2024 • 17 min read

If you’ve never been to Africa before, you’ve much to look forward to. But choosing where to go on your first safari is quite daunting. Here is our guide.

Jan 30, 2024 • 9 min read

Jan 5, 2024 • 20 min read

Dec 8, 2023 • 4 min read

Nov 30, 2023 • 9 min read

Nov 29, 2023 • 4 min read

Nov 28, 2023 • 8 min read

Nov 19, 2023 • 10 min read

Nov 17, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 15, 2023 • 6 min read

THE 10 BEST Kenya Things to Do with Kids

Things to do in kenya with kids.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Nairobi Central Business District
• Upper Hill Estate
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

2. Giraffe Centre

Recommended Experiences with Kids (78)

3. Nairobi National Park

4. Tsavo East

5. Diani Beach

6. Watamu Beach

7. Hell's Gate National Park

8. Mara River

9. Pollman's Tours & Safaris

10. Mida Creek

11. Lake Nakuru

12. Karura Forest

13. Ol Pejeta Conservancy

14. Watamu National Marine Park

15. Marafa-Hells Kitchen

16. Mara Triangle

17. Nairobi National Museum

18. East Africa Adventure Tours and Safaris

19. Fort Jesus Museum

20. Haller Park

21. Village Market

22. Karen Blixen Coffee Garden

23. Garibaldi Safari Kenya

24. Kiambethu Farm

25. Crescent Island Game Park

26. Ngong Hills

27. Observation Hill

28. Lake Naivasha

29. Gede Ruins

30. Steve and Richard Safaris

What travelers are saying

• Destinations

Wild Junket

Kenya Travel Guide: All You Need to Know

Last Updated on March 7, 2024

Having been to Kenya 3 times, I’m sharing a detailed Kenya travel guide, from safety to vaccination requirements and how to arrange a safari.

If you’re looking for a diverse travel destination that packs in all the best of Africa, Kenya is probably the best choice. For first-timers, I always recommend Kenya as a place to get an introduction to this spectacular continent because of its diversity.

As one of the best wildlife destinations in the world , Kenya also offers pristine Indian Ocean beaches , world-class mountain trekking, unique tribal culture, and eclectic Swahili heritage. One thing’s for sure: t here’s so much to do in Kenya it’s impossible to see it all in one trip.

Having traveled to Kenya three times, I’ve come to know the diverse African nation pretty well. Here are some of my tips for traveling Kenya based on my first hand experience. I hope they help you plan your Kenya adventure!

Table of Contents

Travel Visa for Kenya

Safety in kenya, travel insurance for kenya, health and vaccination in kenya, hygiene in kenya, when to travel kenya, 2 weeks in kenya , by public transport, travel kenya independently or on guided tour, budget kenya safari, what to know before going on an african safari, best places to go on safari in kenya, what to eat in kenya, money in kenya, cost of travel in kenya, internet/data in kenya, languages in kenya, how to deal with hassles in kenya, final tips on kenya travel, planning your trip to kenya, things to know before traveling to kenya.

Most nationalities including US, UK, EU and Canada citizens  need a visa to travel to Kenya. Remember to apply for a Kenya evisa online  before your trip. Single-entry visas cost $51 and allow you to stay for 3 months. 

Some nationalities (including mine!) do not a need a visa to travel Kenya. These include nationals from Singapore, Malaysia, San Marino, South Africa.  Here is the full list.

If you’re planning to travel to a few countries in the region, I recommend getting the East Africa tourist visa , which grants multi-country country access (Rwanda, Uganda & Kenya) and works out much cheaper than buying individual visas for these 3 nations.

Many people are inevitably concerned about safety in Kenya. After all, Nairobi has a high crime rate (the city is nicknamed “Nai-robbery”) and it has experienced several bombings in recent years. What I would advise is to avoid the city centre of Nairobi ( stay in Nairobi National Park instead) and focus more on the national parks and beaches like we usually do.

If you are worried about safety on safari after seeing videos of cheetahs jumping onto safari jeeps, please know that such incidents are extremely rare. Animals usually prefer to keep their distance from human beings and will not attack for no reason.

Beyond the big city, it is generally very safe in the national parks. On our last trip, we traveled Kenya with our 4.5-year-old daughter and found it safe everywhere we went. For those traveling  Kenya with kids , the bigger issue is health and hygiene due to malaria risks and food contamination. 

It’s important to buy travel insurance, whether you’re traveling Kenya for 2 weeks or a few months. It’ll cover you in case of mishaps or emergencies.

Safety Wing is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date. Refer to my travel insurance guide for more details.

It is mandatory to have the yellow fever vaccination to travel to Kenya – airport authorities will ask for your vaccine booklet. Now, the yellow fever shot lasts a lifetime (previously it only lasted 10 years).

Suggested vaccinations for Kenya include meningitis, typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and cholera. Check the CDC website for more details. We don’t usually get these shots for ourselves, but we did get the hep B shot for our daughter. 

Most parts of Kenya are malaria infected zones. You can take malaria preventative medication (the most popular being Malarone), but they do have side effects like hallucination. In some countries, you need a prescription for Malarone so be sure to check with your doctor.

Tap water in Kenya is not safe to drink. Bring a Steripen and sterilize tap water or just buy water there. We bought a big 5L drum of water at our first day, and it lasted the whole trip.

Kenya’s infrastructure has improved since 10 years ago (when I first visited) — now you can easily find clean diners at petrol kiosks and in towns serving ugali with meat dishes.

Be careful about eating street food especially in Lamu, as hygiene can be an issue. Remember to pack anti-diarrhea medicine and rehydration pills in case of food poisoning (see my detailed  Safari Packing List ).

The best time to travel Kenya is  from July to October , which are the best wildlife viewing months. The wildebeest migration usually reaches the Masai Mara in July and remains until October. Note that this is high season and certain parks can get crowded.

Rainy season runs from March to May, during which some lodges close down. During high rainfall, it can be hard to see animals as they won’t need to go in search of water.

November to February are good times to travel in Kenya, as prices are lower and showers don’t last long. On our last trip, we visited Kenya in December and had great weather. But we didn’t see as many animals as I did the last time, because there were torrential rains right before we arrived.

How Long to Travel in Kenya?

There’s a lot to do in Kenya: from wildlife watching in the national parks, to meeting the Maasai people in Maasai Mara, and relaxing on the beach in Diani and learning history in Lamu. I recommend spending at least two weeks in Kenya so you can explore at a comfortable pace. Check out my 2-week Kenya itinerary for a detailed breakdown.

• Days 1 – 3: Nairobi
• Days 3 – 5: Lake Nakuru
• Days 5 – 7: Maasai Mara National Reserve*
• Days 7 – 10: Relax on Diani Beach
• Days 10 – 13: Explore Lamu Island
• Day 14: Fly Home!

How to Get Around Kenya

If you’re tight on time, the best way to get from Nairobi to the coast is on the domestic airline, Kenyan Airways. It is affordable and fast. Return flights from Nairobi to Mombasa  are around US$100.  Direct flights from Nairobi to Lamu Island  are around US$200.

It IS also possible to  fly from Nairobi to Maasai Mara  and other reserves on Safarilink. But it is expensive, with flights costing around US$350 return per person. Flying cuts down the travel time from 6 hours by road to just 40 minutes.

By Car Rental/Driver

Roads in Kenya aren’t in the best condition and traffic around Nairobi is a nightmare. You would need a 4WD to drive into the national parks.  Renting a Toyota Land Cruiser  usually costs around $200-300/day.

I wouldn’t advise driving in Kenya on your own. Instead, book a safari lodge/camp and arrange a “road package” through them. The package includes a driver, 2 game drives per day during your stay at the lodge as well as pick-up and drop-off from any hotel in Nairobi.

Most lodges quoted us $150/day for a Toyota van and $250/day for a Land Cruiser safari jeep. We paid for the cheaper option and were fine with it. But for both options, you’ll only get a driver — not a wildlife guide who’s experienced in spotting animals! If you want a wildlife guide, book an all-inclusive safari tour . (More on that in the ‘tour’ section)

For those on a budget, you can also catch a matatu , local minivan, for short distances. It’s a fun ride, and you’ll definitely be entertained by loud African music and squashing in with locals (and maybe a chicken or two!). In smaller towns, you’ll find tuk-tuks  and  boda bodas (motorbike taxis).

For long distance like Nairobi to Mombasa, you can catch big coaches (buses) from the bus station. There are buses that offer power outlets and WiFi, such as Dreamline .

If it’s your first time in Africa or you’re traveling solo, I recommend booking a guided tour that will take care of all the logistics.

On my first trip to Kenya, I joined this   Kenya and Tanzania camping safari with G Adventures and had an awesome time overlanding East Africa with a fun group! I’ve traveled many times with G Adventures (to Brazil, Mongolia, Antarctica and many more) and always had a great time. Another trip  worth checking out is this 8-day National Geographic Kenya safari trip .

On my most recent trip to Kenya, my family and I stayed at safari lodges mostly, and organized game drives through each lodge. For me, that was an ideal way to get around as we were traveling Kenya with kids .

Unfortunately for independent travelers, you’ll need to book a tour to go on safari. You can still explore Nairobi and Diani independently. Most budget safari tours  depart and return to Nairobi and most of them are 3/4 days.

Note that budget tours are usually camping safari. That means you’ll actually be camping and sleeping in small 2-person tents. They include a driver and cook who prepare simple meals (don’t expect top class food). Here are some recommended budget tours:

• 4-day Lake Nakuru & Maasai Mara tour
• 3-day Amboseli National Park tour
• 2-day Mount Kenya safari
• Lake Naivasha & Hell’s Gate Park day tour
• Ol Pejeta Conservancy & Chimpanzee Sanctuary day tour

If this is your first time on African safari , there are some things you need to know. You need to have patience when it comes to wildlife watching. Animals roam freely and sightings are not always guaranteed. You might also come across predators hunting or feeding on their catch — be warned, it can get graphic.

Game drives usually take place around dawn and sunset, as animals are the most active during these times. That means early wake-up calls at 5am.  Because of the game drive schedule, you will have lots of free time during the day. Bring cards or reading materials.

• Masai Mara National Park – Undoubted the most famous national park in Kenya
• Amboseli National Park – Famed for being backdropped by Mount Kilimanjaro and excellent for elephant spotting
• Lake Nakuru – Best place to go for rhinos and flamingoes
• Lake Naivasha – Sip wine and see hippos on sunset cruises
• Hell’s Gate – See bizarre landscapes on bike
• Nairobi National Park – Surprisingly good chances to see rhinos right in the city

The traditional food of Kenya, is as mixed and diverse as its tribes, history and landscapes. Each tribal area has its own specialities, but below are some of the most common Kenyan dishes.  If your kids are fussy eaters, they’ll be happy to know that most safari lodges serve western classics like spaghetti and pizzas. 

• Ugali — This cornmeal is the main staple of Kenyan food. The texture is similar to that of a dough. It is eaten at every meal (in a similar way you eat rice) and usually with stews and vegetables.
• Irio — Another popular dish in Kenya, this mash peas and potato mix is hearty and heavy. It’s usually eaten with roasted meat (nyama choma).
• Kenyan pilau rice — This is a flavorful spicy rice dish cooked with spices like cumin, cardamon, cinnamon, and cloves.
• Kenyan stew — Kenyans love all kinds of stews: beef stew, goat stew, chicken stew or any other animal stew. The sauce usually has a tomato base and accented with the essential mchuzi mix!
• Nyama Choma — The unofficial national dish of Kenya, nyama choma is roasted meat cooked on the barbecue. Goat and beef are the most common forms of nyama choma, but chicken (kuku choma) and fish (samaki choma) are also valid choices.
• Fried fish  — Along the coast, you’ll find fried tilapia fish everywhere, often served with tomato gravy and ugali or rice.

Kenya uses the Kenyan Shilling as its currency (KSh). The current exchange rate is around 1 USD to 110 KSh. You can exchange money in banks or withdraw KSh out of ATMs.

ATM’s are common across Kenya. In most machines both Mastercard and Visa cards are accepted. The maximum you can withdraw from an ATM at any one time is normally 40,000 KSh, although it varies bank to bank and can be as low as 20,000 KSh.

Note: Make sure to bring some cash in USD as you might need a big sum to pay for your safari and ATMs do not give USD.

In general, Kenya is cheap to travel if you’re traveling independently on public transport and hostels. African safari in Kenya are generally expensive, but keep in mind that all your meals, lodging and game drives are included. Accommodation on the coast is cheaper, at around $60 per night for a midrange hotel and $100 and above for an upscale hotel.

The cheapest  4-day budget camping safari  you can find in Kenya is $450 per person. The average nightly rate for a budget safari lodge is $100 and midrange safari lodge is $250. We spent around $150/day on transport provided by the lodges (that includes game drives).

Getting a SIM card in Kenya is simple these days. Safaricom is the largest telecom operator in Kenya and said to have the best coverage. Safaricom offers a weekly plan for data: 1GB of data for 250 KES ($2.50).

Airtel is the second largest provider, with 4G/LTE service in Kenya’s major cities. Its plans are cheaper than Safaricom. Both Airtel and Safaricom have outlets at the arrivals hall in Jomo Kenyetta airport.

To get a SIM card, all you need to do to take your passport along to any shop. But make sure your data works before you leave the shop.

The official languages in Kenya are Swahili and English , with many locals speaking both fluently. You won’t find any problems communicating with people in most parts of the country, especially in the tourist hotspots.

Swahili is a super fun language and it’s actually quite easy to learn. I picked up quite a lot of it while living in Tanzania for 2 months. Here are some basic Swahili words you should learn before your trip to Kenya. Locals will definitely appreciate it.

• Hello: Jambo/ Hujambo!
• How are you?: Habari gani?
• Fine (response): Nzuri.
• Goodbye: Kwa heri.
• Nice to meet you: Nafurahi kukuona.
• Goodnight: Lala salama.

While traveling in Kenya, it is common to encounter tourist touts. Rest stops along the tourist trails are often lined with curio shops selling jewelry or wooden craftwork. The vendors can be quite pushy and persistent.

Even if you stay in your car, they will approach you and try to sell you stuff through the window. Just be polite and say no firmly. Some people will not give up, so be patient and keep calm.

In Nairobi and some hotspots, strangers might approach you and try to be friends. Some will bestow some kind of gift to you, and expect some kind of payment in return. It’s OK to talk to these people if they’re not actively hassling you, but you should ignore any requests for money.

• If it’s your first time on the African continent, manage your expectations. Infrastructure in Kenya has improved a lot since the first time I was there 10 years ago, but there are still certain things you’ll need to get used to, like hole-in-the-ground toilets and insects in the tents. It’s all part of the adventure!
• Many curio shops along the highways have sparkling clean toilets (that’s how they try to draw in the tourists), and drivers tend to bring you here. You’re not obliged to buy anything if you don’t want to.
• Lastly, roads in Kenya are not the best. Prepare for bumpy rides and long, dusty drives. Also bring dramamine for motion sickness.
• Never travel major intercity roads at night due to the heightened risk of road accidents.
• To avoid being a target of petty crime, do not carry anything valuable with you when you’re walking around cities. That includes your laptop, big SLR camera, and expensive jewelry.
• Pack a sense of adventure and a dollop of patience as things move slowly in Kenya. Adopt the ‘hakuna matata” (no troubles) attitude and everything is going to be alright.

Are you looking for more info on travel to Kenya? I have written quite a few articles about Kenya and you’ll find the links below. I hope they will help you plan your trip and make the most out of your Kenya adventure.

Leave a comment below if you have any questions about Kenya!

• The Ultimate 2-Week Kenya Itinerary
• Kenya with Kids: Kenya Family Safari Guide
• The Annual Migration at Maasai Mara
• Meeting the Maasai People at Maasai Mara
• Staying at the Emakoko in Nairobi National Park

Inspired? Pin it!

Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. She is a book author and Lonely Planet guidebook writer. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Follow her travels on her Facebook and Instagram .

Leave a Comment Cancel Comment

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

You May Also Like

A play of colors: mozambique above the clouds, travel to swaziland: my detailed guide & itinerary, exploring eco tourism destinations in west africa.

NAIROBI WITH KIDS

Visiting Nairobi with kids may not be high up on your agenda, to be honest it wasn’t on mine either. We wanted to visit Kenya but had no intentions of staying in a big city. Our accommodation in Masai Mara was booked for the dates we wanted. So, we decided to hang back in the capital.

We were touring part of Kenya with Audley Travel and it was them who made the suggestion. I was completely ignorant to the amazing city that is, Nairobi!! Kenya has been high up on our hit list for a while, we had been a little unsure about how it would work with kids, so we put it off until now.

The biggest thing that sets Nairobi apart from any other city in the world is the fact it’s in such close proximity to a national park, completely filled with all the wildlife you’d want to see on a Kenyan adventure! You can see the Nairobi National Park from many different aspects of the city and it’s literally across the road from the airport meaning you can experience so much simply on a layover in Nairobi.

 When we opted to stay in Nairobi for two nights, we had no idea what was in store. It was completely arranged by Audley Travel, and to say they surprised us is an understatement. We landed in the morning coming off a night flight from London, it worked really well with adjusting to the new time zone.

Audley Travel initially took us to a day room at an airport hotel called Four Points. We showered, had some breakfast and got ourselves set for our 1pm pickup. In my mind I was preparing for another long journey with the kids but that was far from the case.

 NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK 

Table of Contents

Audley Travel had planned for us to stay at The Emakako, based inside the National Park, it was only a stones throw from the airport hotel, so it wasn’t too far. It was the perfect balance of doing something new and exciting whilst also not pushing our kids too far with yet another long journey after coming off a long haul night flight.

Within 30 minutes, we were inside the park and it felt like it was a world away from a city. Almost straight away we saw an ostrich, a pride of lions sleeping under a tree and giraffe drinking from a mirror water hole, amongst many other animals.

 THE EMAKOKO

We were making lots of pit stops on our way to The Emakoko, our kids were so excited to be in such different surroundings with animals they ordinarily only see in a book. The Emakoko would only take a total of 45 minutes from the airport, but we couldn’t help but prolong the journey. Before long we were being greeted with friendly staff at the bridge.

A long wooden pathway crossing across a pretty canyon deep within the Nairobi National Park! The bridge led to yet another world within Nairobi, the peaceful lodge and tranquil cottages with stunning views. The Emakoko is completely encapsulated by Bush and wildlife in their natural habitat. It was such an amazing beginning to our entire Kenyan experience, setting high standards for our onward journey.

Obviously need to extra careful with little ones on this bridge.

 ACCOMMODATION 

The friendly staff had lunch ready for us, they personalise each guests stay. They asked us about diet and what time we’d like coffee in the morning. Of course they are amazing at assisting with making a plan to discover everything on offer in Nairobi with kids.

We spent our first day chilling out by the pool with the kids and discovering all the wildlife right on our doorstep. We felt we had already done a game drive on route into the park so we weren’t in any massive rush out again, it worked perfectly, balancing relaxation with discovery and adventure at the same time.

The staff at The Emakoko are amazing and were so adaptable to myself and the kids vegan food preferences. They were constantly asking what we’d like to eat, catering to our fussy Esmé’s every need. The standard of the food was impeccable with such attention to detail, flavours and presentation. After an amazing first day we bedded down in our beautiful cottage overlooking the valley.

With a master bed draped with netting and a stand alone bath tub next to the window, where we watched the monkeys swinging by, we had our own little private piece of Kenyan paradise. The manager told us rhinos had been right in front of our cottage the morning before. We were all excited to wake up the next morning and see what was behind the curtains beyond the balcony.

THE EMAKOKO

There is nothing more amazing than sleeping right in amongst nature. Lions and hyenas roaring and cackling, along with monkeys, crickets, owls and so on, can you imagine the blended sound? It was like the most perfect relaxing white noise recording I usually turn on for my kids at night back home, only this time it was real!

The next morning we heard a gentle knock on the door, it was our coffee and soya hot chocolates for the kids. We opened the curtains and snuggled in our massive bed whilst sipping on our hot drinks. The birds were chirping and we were slowly spotting the different animals of the early morning amongst the bush within our view. Heaven is an understatement, how could Kenya get any better than this?

SAFARI DRIVE 

After a leisurely breakfast our adorable guide Sammy took us for a game drive. We were keen to see more giraffes, hippos and rhinos. Although we would have loved to see elephants there aren’t any in Nairobi National Park.

The beauty about it, is it’s a not a huge space as parks go. Meaning guides can usually predict where to find the animals and sightings are pretty likely. I also loved the fact we could go on a private drive, you never know when you need to turn back with kids in case they get fed up. Needless to say that wasn’t the case, they were so excited to see all of the animals.

I’ve had many people ask, what’s the best age to take a child on safari. Whilst my instincts say an older child so they remember, both of my kids aged 1.5 and 4.5 got so much out of the experience. Us parents learned so much about the wildlife too, Sammy was so great at educating us in a way that all of us benefited from his wisdom and knowledge.

All our wishes and more came through on that one hour game drive. We saw hippos bathing in the sun, giraffes galloping alongside zebra, impala, the biggest bird that can get air bourne in the world not to mention, random animals we hadn’t expected to see such as a tortoise crossing the road and a tonne of different lizards.

 THE GIRAFFE SANCTUARY 

We still had plenty of time to play with our kids at this point so we decided to visit the infamous Giraffe Sanctuary. Sammy was happy to take us despite it being outside the park grounds. If you like Instagram, you will have seen a tonne of influencers photographed in Giraffe Manor, a famous lodge where giraffes literally stick their head in the window whilst you are eating breakfast. It’s quite expensive to stay there so most people visit the Giraffe Sanctuary attached to the manor.

The particular giraffe at this establishment would be otherwise extinct. It’s a specific breed that is targeted by poachers for its tail! Here’s the most ironic part of all, they want their tail as a fly swat, how ridiculous and sad is that?  Whilst I’m always a little dubious of sanctuaries, it is without doubt this particular breed of giraffe would be extinct from human interference, so it’s a catch 22 situation.

The sanctuary gets super busy in the early afternoon so it’s best to visit as soon as it opens to avoid queues. The giraffes are familiar with humans so visitors have a chance to feed them. There were just two giraffes we could see so my feeling is they are rotated with others to avoid them being over exposed.

It was an amazing experience but I always walk away from sanctuaries wondering how ethical they are? I’d be interested to know if you’ve been before and your thoughts, please leave a comment with what you think below.

 ELEPHANT ORPHANAGE 

Another world renowned sanctuary within the gates of Nairobi National Park is The David Sheldrick elephant orphanage. It’s a very popular place to visit, they only allow visits at 11am to the general public and 5pm to those who have adopted one of their elephants.

They have a tonne of baby elephants that have been orphaned from all over Kenya. They are taken to David Sheldrick as they wouldn’t otherwise survive in the wild without their mother.

We didn’t get around to visiting. However, to do it properly my advice is to adopt an elephant and book anexclusive 5pm visit for adoptees. Book in advance of your trip and do some research. I asked some locals if they thought it was ethical and they said the elephants would otherwise die and they need the financial support of visitors to keep it running. That seems like good enough reason to me!

VIDEO OF KENYA WITH KIDS

MASAI MARA 

It wasn’t long before it was time for the next part of our adventure – visiting the Masai Mara ! Audley Travel arranges our internal transfers and stay at the Masai. They are an incredible tour operator that arrange bespoke and personalised trips according to your budget. The destination expert was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful in arranging our Kenya adventure with two little ones in tow.

Disclaimer- our trip to Nairobi was hosted by Audley Travel and The Emakoko . As always all views and experiences expressed are entirely my own.

You May Also Like:

MASAI MARA WITH KIDS

Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Overnight safari with a toddler

FLYING WITH KIDS

Tunisia For Kids

Audley Travel offers tailor made trips to Kenya. An eight night trip including 2 nights at The Emakoko and 3 nights at Cottars in a family tent (both on a full board basis, with drinks and safari activities included) and 3 nights at the beach in Diani on a B&B basis costs from £4,400 or $5,200 per person (based on two adults and a child sharing, with an infant travelling for free). The price includes internal fights, transfers and park fees and the GBP price also includes international flights from London. Flights are not included in the USD price. For more information visit www.audleytravel.com/Kenya or call 01993 838510 (UK) or 1-833-640-8022 (US)

Friday 12th of April 2019

Your trip to Kenya sounds amazing! We went to Serengeti pre-kids, and would love to go on a safari again with them. I was wondering how you dealt with malaria risk in the areas where you went? I remember that we had to take some preventative tablets when we went, which I am sure are not recommended for kids.

Travel Mad Mum

Sunday 14th of April 2019

We can't give you any medical advise but I can tell you that we did take malaria pills as did the kids. If you are nervous about your kids taking the pills (or even if you are not) you should talk to your pediatrician about it. We also use this repellent which we have found very effective A NEW APPROACH TO PREVENTING MOSQUITO BITES

Scarlet at Family Focus Blog

Friday 8th of March 2019

Wow. Your photos are so inspiring- just beautiful and at the same time they really capture the family travel experience so well. I would love to visit Nairobi with my kids!

Monday 11th of March 2019

Thank you! It was a once in a lifetime trip for sure! If you can afford it I would definitely go for it. xx

6 Places To Visit & Things To Do In Nairobi With Kids

Nairobi is somewhere you wouldn’t necessarily think of taking kids , or at least you probably wouldn’t think of hanging around too long! But from my experience, there are some great places to stay in Nairobi, and some fabulous things to do in Nairobi that your children will just love and you will be surprised to hear that you could easily spend 2-3 days here alone (longer if you are wanting to go on safari in Nairobi National Park) before heading off on safari with the kids . 

Table of Contents

Fun Things to do in Nairobi

Now when I talk about Nairobi, personally, I wouldn’t advise you stay in the city centre. Base yourselves in the suburbs on the outskirts. This is where all of the main attractions are, it is quieter and the traffic in the centre itself is horrendous. 

From my own personal experience of travelling to Kenya for 20 years, the areas I would recommend staying in are around Karen and Langata which are outside of Nairobi city centre. These areas are also close to airports so its makes travelling internationally and internally really easy.

Where to Stay in Nairobi?

Whilst I have been visiting Nairobi and Kenya for many years, we have only just taken (2020) our first holiday to Kenya with the children and this is why I decided to write an ultimate guide to Kenya – to help others. There are many things to do in Nairobi and places you can stay near all the main attractions from large 5* hotels to smaller affordable guest houses.

We stayed at the Spurwing Guest House at the beginning of the trip, and then had one night in the Ole Sereni Hotel at the end of the trip. Ole Sereni is the only city hotel to overlook a game reserve so I thought it would be the perfect way to end our holiday, plus, it was also only a 15 minute drive to the international airport which made it easy for an early morning flight. 

Things to do in Nairobi

With so many fun things to do in Nairobi, where do we start!

Nairobi National Park – Things to do in Nairobi

One of the most famous things to do in Nairobi is Nairobi National Park. And the biggest thing that sets Nairobi a part from other cities is that it has its very own National Park, so we have to start here. It really is quite surreal driving around the park looking at the city sky line in the distance. 

Nairobi National Park boasts an abundance of wildlife including the big 5 which may come as a big surprise. Whilst we didn’t venture into the Park on this occasion, I have in the past and loved it. You can either stay on the outskirts of the city, or in the National Park itself where you will find tented camps which is an amazing experience in itself. Almost 10 years ago I cycled from Nairobi to Mombasa with Activity Safaris . It was the most amazing experience and this is where we started! 

Sheldrake Elephant Orphanage 

The Sheldrake Wildlife Trust is best known for its work to protect elephants, and operates the most successful orphan elephant rescue and rehabilitation program in the world. It’s one of the best things to do in Nairobi in my opinion.

The orphanage is open daily to visitors but there are restrictions to protect the elephants. The gates are only open from 11am-12noon each day unless you adopt an elephant and then you are able to visit from 5pm-6pm but by appointment only as they limit numbers. 

We adopted an elephant for the girls – Tamiyoi. Tamiyoi was born on exactly the same day as the twins – 15/08/2015 so very special to them. They absolutely loved meeting ‘their’ elephant. We were able to watch all the baby orphaned elephants return to the orphanage, and spend time with them. This is something I would highly recommend as an experience but it must all be set up in advance. 

The Giraffe Centre

Another amazing things to to do in Nairobi is to meet a giraffe or two and the Giraffe Centre. The Giraffe Centre is eet in the grounds of the famous and stunning Giraffe Manor, this is an experience your children, and you, will love. Get up close with these magnificent creatures first hand and see how huge they really are. Something you cannot appreciate in the wild. 

At the giraffe centre, you are given a small bucket of giraffe nuts allowing you to feed and interact with the giraffes and create memories to last a lifetime. Open daily from 9am to 5pm including weekends and all public holidays. There is no need to book.

There is also a small café on site selling chicken burgers, hot dogs and a limited selection of sandwiches.

Bomas of Kenya

Experience an afternoon of tribal dancing, cultural markets and seeing how different tribes live at the Bomas of Kenya . A completely different experience to the above but one we all enjoyed. The girls loved running in and out of the mud huts, seeing how the Maasai really live and were fascinated to see how small the huts really are. 

There is a traditional restaurant on site where we had dinner, the Utamaduni Restaurant, which served a selection of English and traditional Kenyan food. 

Matt Bronze – Sculptures and Restaurant

A great place for lunch. Matbronze has one of the largest display of wildlife bronzes in Africa. It’s quite a unique things to do in Nairobi but I love it. Over six hundred pieces of bronze, ranging from cuff-links to life size crocodiles. From cute cub footprints to large lion track trays.

Matbronze is conveniently located between Nairobi’s two main tourist attractions: The Giraffe Centre and the Elephant Orphanage. The Matbronze cafe offers light lunches and all day refreshments in a comfortable garden setting.

Nairobi Rehabilitation Centre

We were taken here by our driver but I had never heard of it before.  It was a nice place in Nairobi to visit with kids. It is not huge and only takes about an hour and a half to walk around.  The animals in the centre are either brought back to health and re-released back into the wild, or cared for at the centre on a long term basis. 

When you arrive, a guide meets you at the entrance and stays with you the entire time talking to you about the animals and interacting with the children. They loved the hands on experiences and got to hold a snake, chameleon, an ostrich egg, and feed the monkeys and feed the ostriches which was a real treat. 

Where Next After Nairobi

With so many things to do in Nairobi, you will need a night to relax. But in Kenya, there is no time for that, you have to get going on the next part of your adventure straight away. For us, after 2 nights in the city, we took a flight from Wilson airport and headed off to the Maasai Mara and our first safari with kids which was incredible – I cannot recommend this experience enough, even with young children. We stayed at House in the Wild which fully catered for families and it was am amazing place to stay.

More about Kenya with kids

If you would like to read more articles in my Kenya series, then these may be of interest…

Kenya with Kids

Safari with Kids

Kenya Packing List – to follow

Travel First Aid Kit

House in the Wild, Maasai Mara

Turtle Bay Beach Resort, Watamu, Mombasa – to follow

Ole Sereni Hotel, Nairobi – to follow

Spurwing Guest House, Nairobi – to follow

3 thoughts on “6 Places To Visit & Things To Do In Nairobi With Kids”

Pingback: The Best of Nairobi in 7 Days - A Travel Itinerary & Guide | Magical Kenya

Pingback: Top 10: Best Cities in Africa

Pingback: Τα Καλύτερα Ταξίδια Με Παιδιά Παγκοσμίως - Αφρική, Ασία, Ωκεανία - Dreamista

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Hi, I’m Anna, a travel loving wife to Tristan and Mother to 6 year old twins Poppy and Tabitha, their 3 year old sister Matilda, and together we are Twins and Travels.

Search here for ideas:

Signup for news and special offers!

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

Booking.com:

Recent articles:.

Three stunning destinations in the Indian Ocean to enjoy a truly luxurious getaway

How to help your child in Year 3 – Starting Key Stage 2

Engaging Children in Learning with Numberblocks

How to Prepare your Child for Starting School 2023

Landmar Costa Los Gigantes – A Great Family Hotel in Tenerife (2023)

Efteling Theme Park Review 2023 – A Magical Family Attraction in The Netherlands

Support this site with affiliates:.

Twins and Travels uses affiliates. They are also a participant of the Amazon EU Associate Programme and they earn from qualifying purchases. Use this affiliate link to search for and purchase from Amazon and they will make a small commission. It does not affect how much you pay.

Travelling with Children: Understanding Kenya Visa Requirements

Planning a trip to Kenya with your children? Its important to understand the visa requirements for travelling with children. AGT Services is here to assist you with your visa application process.

Kenya Visa Requirements for Children

When travelling to Kenya with children, you need to comply with certain visa requirements. Here are the key points to keep in mind:

• All children, regardless of age, require a valid visa to enter Kenya.
• You will need to provide the childs birth certificate, showing both parents names.
• If travelling with only one parent, a notarized letter of consent from the non-travelling parent is required.
• If the child is travelling with a guardian, a notarized letter of consent from both parents is necessary.
• It is recommended to carry a copy of the childs birth certificate and the notarized letter(s) during your trip.

AGT Services understands the importance of a smooth visa application process, especially when travelling with children. Our team of experts will guide you through the entire process, ensuring all necessary documents are submitted.

Dont let the visa requirements for travelling with children stress you out. Contact AGT Services today and let us handle your visa application, making your travel experience hassle-free.

Search Visa and Apply Now

Recent post, blog search by country.

Requirements to Travel to Kenya with Children

Travelers of all ages must follow Kenya’s entry requirements for international visitors.

To travel to Kenya with minors, each child must meet the entry restrictions that apply to them. This could be one of the following:

• No visa required
• Kenya eVisa
• Kenya embassy visa

If the child is 16 years of age or under, they do not need a visa. However, they must have their own passport to enter the country visa-free.

Do Children Need a Visa for Entry into Kenya?

Whether a child needs a visa for Kenya depends on their:

• Nationality

Kenya visa requirement for children aged 16 and under

Children aged 16 and under do not need a child visa for Kenya. They have permission to enter the country without having to show a valid visa.

Kenya visa requirements for children aged over 16

Anyone over the age of 16 must follow the same guidelines for Kenya’s visa policy that apply to adults. The visa requirements for Kenya depend on the nationality of the individual wishing to visit.

Kenya Visa Requirements for Minors Based on Nationality

Citizens of around 40 countries are currently exempt from Kenya’s visa requirement , and they can enter the country without any type of travel authorization. If a passenger over the age of 16 is from one of these visa-free nations, they do not need a Kenyan visa.

Travelers who are not from a visa-exempt country and are over the age of 16 must apply for a travel authorization. The easiest way to do this is by getting a Kenya eVisa online . Over 160 countries are eligible to apply for the eVisa for Kenya .

Children who are not visa-exempt or eligible for the Kenya eVisa must apply in person at a diplomatic government office. An accompanying adult must go with the child, along with their passport and supporting documenta

Kenya Electronic Visa Requirements for Minors

To apply for an online visa to Kenya for a minor, applicants simply need:

• Valid passport
• Email address
• Debit or credit card

Parents of minors can use their own email address and make the payment on the child’s behalf.

How to Submit a Kenyan eVisa for Children

The Kenya visa waiver for children is quick and simple to obtain . Travelers over the age of 16 who are not exempt from Kenya’s visa requirement can apply for the eVisa, providing they are from an eligible country.

Applicants just need to fill in the online application form for the Kenya eVisa with basic personal information , such as:

• Date of birth
• Travel details

Once the information has been completed, the visa fee can be paid securely online with a debit or credit card.

The approved eVisa for Kenya is then sent to the traveler’s email address . A printed copy should be shown to immigration officials upon arrival in Kenya.

How long does it take for a child to get a Kenyan visa?

The Kenya eVisa can be approved in as little as 24 hours, however applicants are advised to allow at least 8 days to avoid any delays in processing.

A Kenyan embassy visa takes longer to process. Travelers applying for a Kenya visa through a diplomatic government office should check the expected approval time of their chosen embassy. This can sometimes be a number of weeks .

Can my child travel to Kenya without a passport?

No, children cannot travel to Kenya without a valid passport.

To enter the country visa-free, minors under the age of 16 must have their own passport . The travel document must be valid for at least 6 months from the expected date of arrival in Kenya.

It is advisable to have a biometric passport for Kenya (ePassport), as it makes the immigration process must faster.

Document Requirements for Minors Traveling to Kenya

To travel to Kenya with a child, they must have the following:

• Own passport (if visa exempt)
• Visa (if applicable)
• Passport attached to visa

In cases where a minor is not traveling with both of their parents or guardians, they must have a permission slip from the adult who is not present. There are strict immigration rules for these circumstances, to avoid child traveling without permission.

Is Kenya Safe for Children?

Kenya is a very safe destination for tourists of all ages. Crime rates against tourists are very low and taking simple safety precautions will ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip.

Safari vehicles are safe for children and the only problem you might encounter is car sickness. Public transport in big cities can feel chaotic and some parents decide to avoid it.

Consult a doctor for health advice and vaccinations for Kenya in advance. Keep in mind that malaria tablets are not suitable for children under 12 years of age.

Related Posts

Kenya to Launch New Electronic Travel Authorization

East Africa Tourist Visa for Kenya

How Long Is a Kenyan eVisa Valid for?

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory July 31, 2023

Kenya - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Kenya due to  crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping .  Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to: Kenya-Somalia border counties and some coastal areas, due to terrorism and kidnapping .

Areas of Turkana County, due to crime .

Reconsider Travel to: Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera, due to crime and kidnapping .

Certain areas of Laikipia County, due to criminal incursions and security operations , reconsider travel through Nyahururu, Laikipia West, and Laikipia North Sub-counties.

Country Summary :  Violent crime, such as armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping, can occur at any time.  Local police often lack the capability to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents and terrorist attacks.  Emergency medical and fire service is also limited. Be especially careful when traveling after dark anywhere in Kenya due to crime.

Terrorist attacks have occurred with little or no warning, targeting Kenyan and foreign government facilities, tourist locations, transportation hubs, hotels, resorts, markets/shopping malls, and places of worship. Terrorist acts have included armed assaults, suicide operations, bomb/grenade attacks, and kidnappings.

Demonstrations may occur, blocking key intersections and resulting in widespread traffic jams.  Strikes and other protest activity related to political and economic conditions occur regularly, particularly in periods near elections.  Violence associated with demonstrations, ranging from rock throwing to police using deadly force, occurs around the country; it is mostly notable in western Kenya and Nairobi.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating in the vicinity of the Kenyan-Somali border, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM).  For more information, U.S. citizens should consult  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notice .

Some schools and other facilities acting as cultural rehabilitation centers are operating in Kenya with inadequate or nonexistent licensing and oversight.  Reports of minors and young adults being held in these facilities against their will and physically abused are common.

Read the  country information page  for additional information about travel to Kenya.

If you decide to travel to Kenya:

• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Make contingency plans to leave the country. in case of an emergency Review the  Traveler’s Checklist ..
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable).  Keep original documents in a secure location.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Kenya.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Specified Areas - Level 4: Do Not Travel U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to the below areas.

Kenya-Somalia Border Counties:

• Mandera due to kidnapping and terrorism.
• Wajir due to kidnapping and terrorism.
• Garissa due to kidnapping and terrorism.

Coastal Areas:

• Tana River county due to kidnapping and terrorism.
• Lamu county due to kidnapping and terrorism.
• Areas of Kilifi County north of Malindi due to kidnapping and terrorism.

Turkana County:

• Road from Kainuk to Lodwar due to crime and armed robbery, which occur frequently.

Specified Areas - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera:

• Violent crime, such as armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping, can occur at any time.  Street crime can involve multiple armed assailants.  Local police often lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents.

Laikipia County:

• Certain areas of Laikipia County, due to criminal incursions and security operations, reconsider travel through Nyahururu, Laikipia West, and Laikipia North Sub-counties.

Consider carefully whether to use the Likoni ferry in Mombasa due to safety concerns.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Yellow Fever

Maximum-100,000 Kenyan Shillings

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy nairobi.

United Nations Avenue Gigiri, Nairobi, Kenya Telephone: +(254) (20) 363-6451 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(254) (20) 363-6170 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

All visitors are required to obtain an electronic travel authorization before entering Kenya. 

  Required for Entry:

• Passport  with at least two blank pages, six months’ validity, and a Kenyan electronic travel authorization.
• You should have  proof of yellow fever immunizations if arriving from an endemic country , or you may be denied entry.

Obtain the latest information on visas, as well as any additional details regarding entry requirements, from the Embassy of Kenya , 2249 R Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone (202) 387-6101, or the Kenyan Consulate in New York City.

Working/Volunteering in Kenya : In December 2018, the Kenyan government announced a new work permit program that requires foreigners to apply for permits and visas from their country of origin. You should submit work permit applications at least 6-8 weeks prior to travel. Once in Kenya, submit a renewal application at least 90 days before your work permit expires.

For additional information on immunizations and detailed country-specific recommendations on vaccinations and other health precautions for travelers to Kenya, visit the CDC’s Travelers’ Health website .

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to, or foreign residents of, Kenya.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction, and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

You should review the Department of State’s Travel Advisory for Kenya before considering travel to Kenya.

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are using increasingly less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

Terrorist threats remain high in Kenya. Terrorist attacks in Kenya have cumulatively resulted in the death and injury of hundreds of people, including foreigners. Attacks have occurred in periods leading up to and during religious holidays and days of national significance. However, an attack is possible at any time. Please note these recent events:

• In January 2020, terrorists attacked a U.S. Department of Defense facility on the coast, killing several individuals and destroying seven aircraft.
• In January 2019, a small bomb exploded in Nairobi’s Central Business District, slightly injuring two people.
• In January 2019, a terrorist attack on the Dusit D2 Hotel complex in the Westlands area of Nairobi resulted in the death of 21 people, including one U.S. citizen.
• In April 2019, two Cuban doctors were kidnapped from a rural area in Mandera County and were reportedly transported to Somalia.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Regions to Avoid :

• The northeastern Kenyan counties of Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and the northeastern area of Marsabit (including the cities of El Wak, Wajir, Garissa, Mandera, Moyale, and Liboi).
• All parts of the coastal counties of Tana River and Lamu, and all areas of Kilifi County north of Malindi.
• The road between Kainuk and Lodwar in Turkana County due to banditry.
• The Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera.
• Avoid using the Likoni ferry due to safety and security concerns.

Crime: Crime in Kenya is a regular occurrence and Kenyan authorities have limited capacity to deter and investigate such acts.

• Violent and sometimes fatal criminal attacks, including home invasions, burglaries, armed carjackings, muggings, and kidnappings can occur at any time.
• “Matatus” (privately-operated public transportation buses) tend to be targeted since they carry multiple passengers.
• Cases of violent street crime targeting Westerners occur in many seemingly safe areas of Nairobi, ranging from simple muggings to kidnapping and extortion, including attacks during daylight hours. U.S. citizens using off-the-street taxis have also been victims of robbery, kidnapping, and extortion.

Forced Marriage is known to occur in Kenya.

Female genital mutilation (FGM) and Cutting (C): This act is known to occur in Kenya. It is a federal crime to perform FGM/C in the United States on any minor younger than 18 years old, punishable by fines and up to five years in prison. It is also a criminal offense knowingly to take a minor younger than 18 years old outside of the United States for the purpose of performing FGM/C (so-called “vacation cutting”).

Sexual Assault is prevalent in Kenya and frequently goes unreported.

• Victims of sexual assault may have difficulty receiving adequate social or medical support .
• While sexual assault is mostly frequently associated with women, sexual assault of men also occurs in Kenya and often goes unreported because of the stigma attached to this type of assault.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State and the  FBI pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Kenya. Scams are often initiated through dating apps, internet postings/profiles, or by unsolicited emails and letters.

Common scams include:

• Romance and online dating (Check this online dating scam infographic ).
• Someone you have not met in person quickly offers friendship, romance, and/or marriage.
• Job solicitations asking for a processing fee in advance.
• A person asking for money to pay hospital bills, visa fees, or legal expenses and/or seeming to have many sudden problems overseas.
• Elaborate scam business opportunities, including fraudulent government procurements. Recently, scammers have been impersonating legitimate companies and ordering commodities shipped through Mombasa with payment terms. Companies are encouraged to independently verify the purchasing company to confirm the order prior to shipping goods without pre-payment. Please contact the Commercial Section at [email protected] for assistance verifying procurement opportunities and Kenyan buyers.
• Use good judgement and caution on social media and dating websites. If you decide to meet someone in person that you have connected with online, be sure to set up the meeting in a safe and public place, and let someone know where you are.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Report crimes to the local police at 999, 112 or 911, and contact the U.S. Embassy during business hours at +254 (0) 20-363-6451, or after-hours at +254 (0) 20-363-6000.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Kenya has assistance programs for victims of crime sponsored by nongovernmental organizations. These programs include but are not limited to the following:

• Gender Violence Recovery Centre (GVRC) Gender Violence Recovery Centre (GVRC) has been providing specialized medical treatment and psychosocial support to low-income survivors of sexual and domestic violence.
• Healthcare Assistance Kenya (HAK) offers a 24-hour Rapid Response Service to women and children survivors of Gender Based Violence at its Call Centre as well as a 24 hour toll-free hotline for sexual and gender based violence assistance.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The Kenyan Tourism Regulatory Authority has oversight for the country’s tourism sector. The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities vary by region. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. Game parks and related safari tours with well-established operators generally have been reported to be safe.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in Kenya are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• Kenya enacted strict legislation regulating the sale and consumption of alcohol and cigarettes.
• Penalties for possessing banned wildlife items under Kenya’s Wildlife Act include large fines and severe penalties, including life imprisonment.
• Violations of the Kenya Firearms Act are punishable from one year to life imprisonment. Possession of any amount of ammunition can incur a minimum seven-year sentence.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Customs regulations are strict on importing certain items into or out of Kenya such as antiquities, medications, business equipment, currency, ivory, rhino horn, and other wildlife products including hides, skins, and teeth.

U.S. citizens have been detained and arrested for attempting to bring contraband into Kenya. Contact the Embassy of Kenya or one of Kenya’s consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Alcoholic Drinks Control Act of 2010, which regulates when and where alcoholic drinks may be consumed in public, states that a person found by local law enforcement authorities to be intoxicated or disorderly in or near public areas, including some businesses, may be arrested without warrant and brought to court for trial.

• If convicted, the maximum fine is 500 Kenyan shillings and/or imprisonment for a maximum of three months.
• If convicted three times of the same charge within a 12-month period, you will be required to participate in mandatory rehabilitation at your expense.

More information on this law may be found on Kenya's substance abuse website, NACADA .

Tobacco Control Act 2007 regulates public smoking and the marketing and sale of tobacco products in Kenya. In public places, smoking is allowed only in designated smoking areas.

Currency: You may depart the country with up to 100,000 Kenyan shillings.

• Destruction of Kenyan currency, even in small amounts, is illegal, and almost always results in arrest and a fine.
• You should ensure that your U.S. currency bills are relatively new, as banks in Kenya have been known not to accept older U.S. currency.

Cultural Rehabilitation Centers: Some schools and other facilities acting as cultural rehabilitation centers are operating in Kenya with inadequate or nonexistent licensing and oversight. Reports of minors and young adults being held in these facilities against their will and being physically, sexually, and emotionally abused are common. U.S. citizens are encouraged to thoroughly research these facilities and talk to others who have used them. They should have a plan for an early return if necessary.

Safaris : Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) , the governing body of Kenya’s national parks, requires all tour operators and safari lodges carry nationally mandated insurance. You should:

• Inquire whether prospective safari camps or tour operators are in compliance with this requirement;
• Observe all local or park regulations and exercise appropriate caution in unfamiliar surroundings; and
• Thoroughly check the qualifications and safety record of all tourist lodges and guides before engaging their services and venturing into the wild in their care.

Firearms: Import, possession, and use of firearms is governed by the Kenya Firearms Act.

• Import of all firearms, including sporting guns, is prohibited in Kenya except in accordance with the terms of an import permit.
• Possession of firearms while in Kenya requires a firearms certificate, which can be difficult to obtain.
• Violations of the Kenya Firearms Act are punishable from one year to life imprisonment. Possession of any amount of ammunition is punishable by a minimum seven-year sentence.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers: Kenyan law criminalizes same-sex sexual activity. The Kenyan penal code criminalizes “carnal knowledge against the order of nature,” which is interpreted to prohibit consensual same-sex sexual activity and specifies a maximum penalty of 14 years of imprisonment. A separate statute specifically criminalizes sex between men and specifies a maximum penalty of 21 years of imprisonment. Police have detained persons under these laws, particularly suspected sex workers. LGBTQI+ advocacy organizations, such as the Gay and Lesbian Coalition of Kenya, have been permitted to register and conduct activities. However, societal discrimination based on sexual orientation is widespread.

See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Students:  See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:   See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

Travelers with Disabilities:  Kenyan law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities.The Government of Kenya has not consistently enforced these provisions and implementation has been slow.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States.  Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, and general infrastructure.

• Access to government or private buildings , medical facilities, restaurants, or other public or private facilities is limited.
• Accessibility to public transportation and taxis is limited. There is no functioning bus system in Nairobi, but rather an extensive use of vans (“matatus”) that travel along designated routes; taxis are also used, as are motorcycles serving as taxis (“boda bodas”).
• Public transportation and taxis do not accommodate wheelchairs; these vehicles are most often hailed from the side of busy roads.
• Footpaths along the side of roads are generally unpaved, bumpy, dirt paths, and road crossings are often unmarked.

Please visit the Embassy’s COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Kenya.

Medical services are adequate in Nairobi for most medical conditions and emergencies.

In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in or near the major cities of Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu. First responders generally are unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance and carry emergency numbers. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

For emergency services in Kenya, dial 999 , 112 , or 911 .

Ambulance services are:

• Not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas except Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, and Eldoret;
• Not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment; and
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. You may need to call your insurance company or pay and get reimbursed.

Surrogacy: Surrogacy programs in Kenya are unregulated and families have reported difficulties obtaining required legal documentation from Kenyan authorities and taking children out of Kenya; difficulties may increase if a parent is single.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Government of Kenya to ensure the medication is legal in Kenya.

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Schistosomiasis
• Traveler’s Diarrhea
• Tuberculosis
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Kenya.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Road accidents are a major threat to travelers in Kenya. Roads are poorly maintained and are often bumpy, potholed, and unpaved.

• Traffic moves on the left side of the road, which can be very disorienting to those not accustomed to it.
• Beware of vehicles traveling at excessive speed, and unpredictable local driving habits.
• Many vehicles are poorly maintained and lack basic safety equipment.
• Heavy traffic jams, either due to rush hour or because of accidents, are common.
• Some vehicles will cross the median strip and drive against the flow of traffic.

U.S. citizens have been fatally injured in accidents involving long-distance, inter-city buses and local buses and vans called “matatus”. Matatus are commonly known to be the greatest danger to other vehicles and pedestrians. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from using matatus.

Injuries and fatalities involving two-wheeled motorcycle taxis, called “boda bodas,” are equally common. Boda bodas often fail to observe basic safety precautions and ignore traffic rules. Inter-city nighttime road travel should be avoided due to the poor road and streetlight conditions and the threat of banditry throughout the country. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from using boda bodas.

During the rainy season, some unpaved roads are impassable even with four-wheel drive vehicles with high clearance. Travelers are urged to consult with local officials regarding road conditions.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Trains : Most passenger trains are considered unsafe, particularly during rainy seasons, because of the lack of routine maintenance and safety checks. The only approved train route for U.S. government personnel is the Nairobi to Mombasa Standard Gauge Railway. U.S. government personnel can only ride in the first-class cabin to avoid pickpockets and facilitate a rapid exit if necessary.

Aviation Safety Oversight:

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Kenya’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Kenya’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Kenya should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Kenya . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Do Kids Need ID to Fly? Travel Identification Info for Every Age

A couple of times a year, I get a panicked message from a friend or reader who is about to take an airplane flight with their kids. Suddenly they’ve realized that they have no idea what kind of identification they need for their children to fly, if any. After a decade and a half of flying on hundreds of flights and dozens of airlines with my kids to destinations all around the world, I know this question can certainly be confusing!

In the United States, there are multiple entities that set the official legal rules and regulations governing air travel identification and documentation. Those can include Customs and Border Protection, the Department of State, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Transportation Security Administration, and each specific airline.

So exactly what documentation is required to board an airplane with kids? As you might imagine, it depends! Here is all the information you need to make sure you have the right identification to travel aboard both domestic and international flights with kids.

Short on Time? Quick Answers in a Nutshell

Children under the age of 18 typically do not need ID to fly on domestic flights within the United States when accompanied by an adult. Airlines may require identification, however, in more unusual circumstances such as with very young infants, lap children, unaccompanied minors, or older teens flying solo. Identification – specifically a passport book but sometimes more – is always required for kids of any age to travel on international flights.

Identification Required for Kids for International Travel

Most travelers usually expect strict identification rules when it comes to international travel. If you are traveling internationally by air the answer to the question of whether kids need ID to fly is pretty simple. Yes! They do!

Not just any ID will suffice. Just as with adults, a passport book is required to fly with kids internationally no matter how young. If you have kids who are United States citizens, getting an official passport can be time-consuming and expensive. In addition, it requires some logistical steps that parents can mess up.

How to Get Passports in the US for Kids

Specifically, the consent of both parents is required for kids under age 16. That usually means both parents need to appear in person at a passport acceptance facility (like many post offices, local government offices, etc.). Alternatively, one parent can appear in person with a notarized statement of consent from the other parent. I got a notarized letter from my husband the last time we applied for our kids because his work schedule made it difficult for him to be available during the limited business hours passport acceptance facilities in our area were open.

Note also that you can’t just easily renew children’s passports by mail like you can for adults. The same in-person application process with both parents present is required. Plus kids under age 16 must renew passports every 5 years, instead of every 10 years for adults.

For that reason, I highly recommend starting the process of obtaining passports for your kids many months in advance of any international travel. After the paperwork is submitted, the process can take 2-3 months for a passport to arrive. Plus, it can often take many weeks before you can get an appointment to even submit the paperwork.

This obviously makes international travel with very young infants especially challenging, as it takes time to first get a birth certificate for the child and then apply for a passport.

Hopefully you are landing on this article in plenty of time to get your paperwork in order for your specific situation. But if not, there may be ways you can get what you need more urgently. You can pay a $60 extra fee to expedite a passport, which can cut several weeks off of standard processing times. And in more urgent situations, there is an even more expedited option available by applying at a passport agency (which can be done if a trip is within 14 days or less).

Special Note about International Land Crossings and Cruises

One reason some travelers misunderstand the air travel rules for kid identification is because the rules for kids crossing land borders and on some cruises can be different. For example, minors who are US citizens can cross into Canada by land with only a birth certificate.

On some closed loop cruises starting and ending in the United States going to destinations like Mexico, Canada, or many Caribbean countries, there are times when both kids and adults can technically travel without a passport using a birth certificate or passport card.

But none of these exceptions apply to international air travel. Don’t mix these rules up!

Child Travel Consent Form

Although a passport book is necessary to travel with kids on international flights, it isn’t necessarily fully sufficient. There are some times that other travel documents may be required – such as a visa for certain countries.

What is even more likely to trip up international travelers is the situation in which a child is traveling with only one parent or is traveling with another adult who isn’t a parent. In many of these circumstances, proof that both parents consent to the specific trip can be required. In these cases, the best practice is to carry a notarized letter of consent for the child to travel.

Some countries have very specific forms or formats that you need to follow. Mexico is one such example and historically has tended to be quite strict. My husband will likely be traveling solo with one of our kids to Mexico for a family wedding in a few months, and we are already planning to get the a letter of consent completed as an extra precaution.

Many countries don’t have clear cut rules that are easy to research. For example, I flew last summer to Italy (first entering the Schengen Area in Frankfurt, Germany) with both of my kids without my husband. I wasn’t able to get completely definitive information as to whether consent was required. As a result, we went ahead and had my husband complete a notarized letter of consent that I kept with me along with a copy of his passport. We weren’t asked to show it, but I breathed easier knowing I had it!

Unfortunately, profiling can and does occur depending on where you are traveling. So parents who don’t share the same last name as their children or who may appear to be another race or ethnicity may find they face extra scrutiny. The best way to avoid any surprises – just or not – is to err on the side of having this document even when it’s not necessarily required.

Identification Required for Kids for Domestic Travel

If you are traveling domestically, the answer to the ID question is a little more complicated but thankfully usually much easier. In most standard circumstances, identification is not required for minors for domestic travel within the USA. There are specific unique situations, however, where it can be.

What Identification is Needed at TSA Checkpoints?

For domestic travel, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will not require you to have an ID for children under age 18 at the security checkpoint.

That said, TSA agents may well talk to your child to confirm their identity and to screen for cases of child abduction. Agents have asked my kids over the years for their names. In some circumstances, they’ve pointed to my husband or me and asked our children who we are. If you have kids who are shy or who take warnings of stranger danger to heart, let them know in advance of your trip that it’s ok for them to speak to these agents and to answer truthfully.

Related: Strategies for Speeding Through TSA Checkpoints with Kids

Special Situations Where Kids May Need ID for Domestic Travel

While the TSA won’t require identification for kids under age 18, many airlines have policies in specific circumstances where some form of ID will be required. It’s vital to know about these outlier circumstances so you don’t come to the airport unprepared.

Young Infants

A number of airlines have rules that prohibit or limit newborns from flying. Airline rules differ, with some airlines like Delta prohibiting newborns under 7 days old from flying on any flights. Others set limits only on international travel, including Southwest which limits infants 14 days old or younger from flying on international flights. Most airlines allow young infants under their age limits, however, to fly with a letter of permission from a physician.

Related: Essential Tips for Your Baby’s First Flight

If you are traveling with a newborn, it’s highly advised to bring a document like a birth certificate for proof of age. And if you are looking for an exception to an age minimum of any sort, a physician’s letter is essential.

Lap Children

When you are flying with a child who will be sitting in your lap (permitted for kids under age 2), having identification to prove age may be required. Some airlines will allow younger infants to board with no ID, as it’s normally obvious that very small babies are not yet near the maximum age cutoff. Families with older babies toddling and speaking always should carry proof of age no matter what the airline. Airline employees can ask at any time for proof to make sure the child is young enough to travel as a lap child.

Related: What to Consider before Flying with a Lap Child

If you are flying Southwest Airlines, however, do not leave ID at home no matter what the age of your lap child. Southwest is the only US carrier that absolutely requires identification of any and every lap child regardless of how old they appear. You’ll need to show it at the ticket counter to obtain a boarding verification document (that works like a boarding pass) for the lap child.

Are there some instances where passengers haven’t had to show documentation for their children on Southwest? For sure. But I’ve flown with a lap child on Southwest more than a dozen times, and I can assure you that every time I had to show proof of age, even with a kiddo as young as 4 months! You don’t want to chance this.

Related: Complete Guide to Flying Southwest with Kids

What kind of identification works for lap children? A simple copy of a birth certificate will usually suffice. No need to rush to the DMV to get your tot a state-issued ID card.

Birth certificates can, however, can take awhile to obtain after a child is born. If you need to fly with a young infant domestically, most airlines will also accept hospital discharge documentation or vaccination records from a pediatrician’s office. The key is that the document have the child’s date of birth on it. When in doubt, if you cannot obtain a birth certificate, call the airline you are flying beforehand to confirm alternatives.

Unaccompanied Minors & Minors Traveling Solo

Another circumstance in which identification may be required for a child is in the case of children flying alone. Again, each airline’s policy is different.

In this situation, age really matters. All US airlines permit older teens (usually ages 15+ but sometimes younger) to fly solo just like adults. And most of them also allow younger kids (often ages 5-14) to fly as unaccompanied minors by paying a fee for limited supervision by airline employees. Depending on the child’s age and circumstances, different documentation can be required.

For older teens under age 18 flying truly solo and not with an unaccompanied minor program, ID is almost always required. Since many kids in this age range won’t have a driver’s license or official government photo ID yet, some airlines (like United) will accept other forms of identification like a birth certificates or student IDs. Other airlines (like Delta), however, require that 15-17 year olds flying solo have the same kind of photo ID that is required of adults. So if your child doesn’t have a driver’s permit or license yet, you’ll likely need to pack a passport.

Younger kids flying as an unaccompanied minor may need some identification as well. This also varies based on the airline and the circumstance. For example, when my son flew earlier this year as an unaccompanied minor on Southwest, I had to show ID as his parent, but I was not asked to show identification for him. Officially, however, Southwest’s policy is that parents may need to show proof of age for the minor. We probably weren’t asked because I booked under my son’s Rapid Rewards account that includes his date of birth (and he clearly appears to be within the age range of the program).

Most other US airlines won’t ask for ID for unaccompanied minors in straightforward situations, but the important thing to note is that they can . So the safest course of action is to at least carry a birth certificate. I put a birth certificate in my son’s backpack anyway, so we were prepared!

Here are links to the relevant age and ID policies that may apply to minors flying solo or as unaccompanied minors on each major US airline:

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Delta Airlines
• Frontier Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines
• JetBlue Airways
• Southwest Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• United Airlines

Additional Identification Air Travel Tips

• When in doubt, bring it : I know from lots of digging around fine print on the internet that it’s sometimes impossible to get a definitive answer about identification. When in doubt, I highly recommend you err on the side of packing more than you need rather than less. A passport book is the gold standard. For domestic travel an original birth certificate (with the raised seal) can be helpful in many circumstances too.
• Keep extra copies on the cloud : Back in the pre-internet old days of travel, most of us traveled with extra passport copies in a separate bag in case we lost the original. In the digital age, having backups is easier than ever. I keep a copy on the cloud of passports and birth certificates for everyone in the family. That way, I can easily access everything on my phone in cases of emergency.
• Take extra precautions in case of child custody disputes and divorce : It’s crucial in situations of divorce or shared custody that parents have all of their legal ducks in a row before boarding a plane with their child, even for a simple hop across state lines. As a former attorney myself, I strongly suggest you consult your own legal counsel. Always make sure travel is permitted and that you know what additional documentation you need to bring to avoid any potential issues.

The post Do Kids Need ID to Fly? Travel Identification Info for Every Age appeared first on Trips With Tykes .

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Human Interest

Dozens Dead After Dam Bursts amid Ongoing Heavy Rain: 'Devastating'

About 50 people are believed to have died after a dam burst in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley on April 29

Abigail Adams is a Human Interest Writer and Reporter for PEOPLE. She has been working in journalism for seven years.

Dozens of people are dead after a dam in Kenya burst following weeks of heavy rain and flooding.

The Old Kijabe Dam, located in the Great Rift Valley region, broke its banks early in the morning on Monday, April 29, sending water and debris gushing downstream, according to the Associated Press and The Guardian .

About 50 people have been found dead, and the death toll is expected to rise, the BBC reported, adding that many people are still being pulled from the mud.

"This is the worst I've ever come across in my career," Anthony Muchiri, an emergency response manager with the Kenya Red Cross, told the outlet.

Peter Muhoho, who lives in the village of Kianugu, said most of his neighbors were swept away by the floodwaters. “I was asleep when I heard a loud bang and screams,” he told the BBC. “Water had flooded the area.”

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

David Kamau, who was born in Mai Mahiu, said floodwaters also “washed away many houses and vehicles” in the area. “We have never seen such devastating floods since we were born here,” he told the outlet.

Kithure Kindiki, Kenya’s interior minister, said in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter) that the government has ordered the inspection of “all public and private dams and water reservoirs” within 24 hours, effective at 2 p.m. local time.

The minister also asked security and intelligence officials to “recommend cases where compulsory evacuation and temporary resettlement orders” should be issued.

“The Government is deeply concerned by the loss of life and destruction of public and private property resulting from the ongoing floods,” Kindiki wrote.

AP Photo/Patrick Ngugi

Nearly 100 people have died in the last month in parts of Kenya devastated by flooding, according to the BBC.

The same areas of the country being impacted by the deadly floods have recently been “recovering from the worst drought in 40 years,” according to the IFRC’s website .

The flood crisis in Kenya is worsening “due to the combined effects of El Niño” and the immense amount of rain that has fallen in the region since March, said Jagan Chapagain, Secretary General and CEO of the International Federation of Red Cross, in a post on X .

El Niño has “triggered devastating floods and river overflows” since November, “causing more than a hundred deaths and widespread damage,” Chapagain added.

An Indian Ocean Dipole, which is similar to El Niño, is also helping trigger immense amounts of rainfall, according to the BBC.

Related Articles

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Our Favorite Flared Alo Yoga Pants Are 30 Percent Off

If you (like me) are wary of wearing leggings out in public, then flared yoga pants might be the answer. They’re soft and stretchy enough to exercise in, but the extra bagginess around the knee means that you can definitely throw a T-shirt over top and call it an outfit. Of all the flared and bootcut styles I’ve tried, Alo’s are the best. And they’re 30 percent off today as part of the brand’s rare sitewide sale.

What I especially like about these pants is that they’re made with Alo’s matte Airbrush fabric, which looks and feels like cotton. (Why aren’t more yoga pants matte? An open question to all the athleisure brands out there.) Unlike High Sport pants and their various dupes , these are full-length, which in my opinion makes them easier to style — you can wear any type of sock underneath, for example. And they’re simply very comfortable and flattering, whether you’re heading to the Pilates studio or the coffee shop.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

• the strategist
• deal of the day
• women's activewear

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Micro Sales

Greatest hits, most viewed stories.

• All of the Best Mother’s Day Gift Ideas
• 10 Things That Delighted Us: From Cardboard Bed Frames to Compact Makeup Stacks
• The 17 Very Best Protein Powders
• All the Best Walking Shoes We’ve Ever Written About
• What Steve Madden Can’t Live Without
• What Joey Fatone Can’t Live Without

Today’s Top Clicked