Kenya, often called the 'birthplace of safari,' consistently ranks as one of the best places in Africa for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers. From thrilling safaris to vibrant cultural experiences and pristine beaches, Kenya offers a diverse range of attractions. This comprehensive guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip, covering the best places to visit, optimal times to travel, essential things to know, and practical tips for a seamless experience.
Best Things to Do in Kenya
Kenya offers a plethora of activities that cater to every type of traveler:
- Thrilling Safaris: Witness the Great Migration in the Masai Mara and explore diverse wildlife in national parks.
- Cultural Experiences: Visit Maasai villages and learn about their ancient traditions.
- Coastal Escapes: Relax on the white sand beaches of Diani and Galu, engaging in water sports like kitesurfing.
Best Places to Visit in Kenya
Kenya may be synonymous with safari, but this guide takes travelers to forested mountains, vibrant cities and pristine beaches - and on safari too.
Nairobi and Surrounding Areas
Kenya is a fairly small country in East Africa. Its capital and central transport hub is Nairobi, which is more or less in the centre. This is typically where all Kenya safari itineraries start, as Nairobi is the country's logistical hub. The area around Nairobi also has plenty of conservation areas, the most popular being Nairobi National Park, Lakes Nakuru and Naivasha as well as the Aberdare Mountains.
Masai Mara National Reserve
The biggest name in western Kenya is of course the Masai Mara National Reserve, home to some of Africa's best year-round game viewing as well as the annual Wildebeest Migration. The biggest reason that the Masai Mara attracts the Migration is because its open, flat savannah produces superb grazing. There are few thickets, forests or high peaks: the wide landscape is a safari classic with green grass that turns golden as the seasons pass.
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Northern Kenya
That being said, there are still superb safari options here, including Samburu National Park, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy and Laikipia. The more arid conditions suit species like gerenuk, the Somali ostrich and Grevy's zebra. Lewa is also the best place in Kenya to see rhino regularly and consistently.
Amboseli
Because it shares the longest part of Kenya's border with Tanzania, this is the best place to see snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. This part of Kenya is wetter and the terrain more varied: Amboseli, for example, is a beautiful mix of open savannah, wetlands, woodlands and hills, making it ideal for a wide variety of species, from bat-eared foxes to elephants.
Coastal Kenya
Way down on the south-eastern coast are some of Kenya’s best beaches. Hit Diani and nearby Galu for top beach lodges and water sports like kitesurfing.
Best Time to Visit
From the Great Migration and the best diving conditions to vibrant festivals across Kenya, our guide will help you pick the perfect time for your visit.
Kenya can be visited at any time of the year, but several factors might influence the timing of a holiday, depending to some extent on your interests and preferences. An equatorial location means that Kenya doesn’t experience the seasonal extremes associated with higher latitudes, and temperatures tend to be influenced as much by altitude as by time of year. That said, the few degrees difference that separates the hottest months of December to March from the coolest months of May to August make a tangible difference to comfort levels along the coast, and most people will find the cooler weather more tolerable. Unlike temperatures, precipitation in Kenya tends to be highly seasonal: approximately two-thirds of the annual rainfall comes during the long rains (late February to early June, peaking in April), which is a poor time to be at the coast or hiking on Mount Kenya, and there’s usually also quite a bit of rainfall during the short rains (October and November).
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For most visitors, Kenya’s main attraction is its wildlife, and here several seasonal factors come into play. In pure game-viewing terms, the main dry season, starting in late June, is the best time to be on safari. This is when the wildebeest migration is centred on the Masai Mara, usually crossing from the Serengeti in late July or August, and spending the next three months grazing the plains bare before they return southward in October. In other reserves, August to October is the toughest time of year for most large mammals, but it offers the best conditions for wildlife, as thirsty animals concentrate at lakes and other perennial sources of drinking water, most noticeably in Amboseli and Samburu-Buffalo Springs.
However, the best game-viewing seasons are also the peak tourist seasons, so those seeking a more tranquil safari might prefer to visit at another time of year.
Things to Know Before Visiting Kenya
What do you need to know before visiting Kenya? Is Nairobi safe? Do I need a visa? From passport requirements to cultural etiquette, we have the answers.
Visa Requirements
Don't let your dream vacation to Kenya go wrong before it starts. We've got everything you need to know about securing a tourist visa before you jet off. Luckily, applying for a Kenya E-visa can be completed through their online portal. While the application can be done online it is quite extensive, so give yourself adequate time to complete the paperwork necessary.
Money and Costs
You don't have to break the bank to explore the incredible landscapes in Kenya - you just need our top tips to squeeze every penny out of your budget. At Go2Africa, we don't sell one-size-fits-all packages. We prefer to match your budget to give you a tailor-made Kenya experience, splurging and saving where it makes sense for your individual needs. A bare-bones budget may involve sharing transport but then upgrading to the area's best lodge. Or choosing a slightly more economical tented camp in order to spend a day or two longer on safari. Don't be shy to chat with your Africa Safari Expert about your budget and what you hope to get out of your vacation to Kenya. We advise clients to have an idea of a budget band that they feel comfortable working within and disclosing this at the earliest opportunity.
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In Kenya, it is customary - but not obligatory or mandatory - to give tips to service staff in gratitude and thanks for good service. For transfers, consider tipping about US$5 per couple in your group.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Kenya ranges from down-to-earth mobile camps that move with the Wildebeest Migration to very lavish lodges and modern city hotels.
Safety
Kenya is a very safe country to visit. Its tourism industry is one of the most important in the country and thousands of travellers go on safari safely every month. The risk of malaria is low during Green Season and very low during peak season. Check with your doctor about taking precautions. Drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen and a hat. Don't overdo alcoholic beverages. Don't walk around camp after dark, even if it is fenced. Always obey your Kenya safari guide's instructions. Even if they seem ‘tame', the animals are still wild.
Unfortunately, some of the larger cities in Kenya, especially its capital city of Nairobi, have an unfortunate reputation with petty crime. When out and about in many major Kenyan cities, I recommend carrying only the essentials - phone, wallet, passport, and keys. You are legally required to carry your passport with you in Kenya - failure to present your passport when asked could result in a fine. I carried a cross-body bag while exploring Nairobi, which I carried on my front in crowded areas.
What to Pack
What to include in your Kenya safari packing list depends on the time of year you are visiting, the activities you will be undertaking and the luggage restrictions on the transport you will be using. Kenyans generally dress casually in shorts, jeans, sandals and trainers. This attire is acceptable in public places unless otherwise stated. Restaurants and hotels do sometimes have dress codes, which are usually smart- or business-casual. Your Kenya safari packing list should include lightweight clothing in neutral colours such as khaki, brown, beige or green. Avoid white - it will get dirty quickly - and black, which can get very hot during the day and may attract mosquitoes at night. Early-morning game drives in open vehicles can be very chilly, but the day will heat up quickly as the sun rises - so it's always best to dress in layers.
Forget high fashion - if spotting elephants in Kenya’s Maasai Mara is on your to-do list (as it should be!) comfort is the most important factor to consider. My Maasai Mara uniform consisted of comfortable pants, cotton t-shirts, and a waterproof outer layer for the chilly nights and often-unpredictable rain. I kept a hat on hand for extra warmth, and a few warmer layers back at the camp for chilly nights. One of my biggest Kenya clothing tips is to wear light colors - darker colors attract mosquitoes, so aim for colors like white, khaki, and hunter green to keep the pests away!
Health Tips
One of the most expensive travel mistakes you can make is arriving in a place and realizing you don’t have the proper shots to enter. If you’re planning on visiting Kenya, make sure you are up-to-date on your vaccinations in order to enter. While Kenya does not currently require a yellow fever vaccination for American tourists, visitors from 41 countries require the vaccine to visit. If you do arrive in Kenya unvaccinated and decide to continue your trip onward to a vax-required country, you can get your yellow fever vaccination at any Port Health Authority at a number of Kenyan Airports. Vaccinations cost 3500 KSH ($28).
If you’re also from a country where antimalarials cost an arm and a leg (thanks USA!) here’s my biggest travel tip - wait to purchase your antimalarials in Nairobi. Nairobi has little to no risk of malaria because of its cooler temperatures, so it’s safe to spend time in the city without antimalarials. Not all pharmacies in Nairobi carry antimalarials. I recommend checking pharmacies in the Nairobi city center first as they will be the most likely to carry them. We found our antimalarials at Pharmaplus Pharmacy CBD.
Transportation
Travel from the cities to the coast and national parks with this guide to getting around in Kenya. International flights land and depart from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi. Light aircraft flights for fly-in safaris to the Masai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu and other areas depart from Wilson Airport, which is about 15km (10mi) away from JKIA. Chartered flights are a great way to get around Kenya, saving you long road transfers and allowing for more time on safari.
By far the most efficient way to get around Kenya’s major cities is by using rideshare apps. Uber is available in Nairobi but Bolt is king, with more affordable prices to match.
While it may be tempting to call an Uber everywhere, Kenya actually has an extensive network of public transportation options. Not only is public transportation less expensive than private taxis, but you’ll get a look into how the locals get around. Riding in the back of a bumpy matatu while Willy Paul blasts from the speakers is an experience in and of itself. Public buses: Official city buses are operated by the Kenya Bus Service (KBS). Trains: Kenya Railways oversees all the trains in the country and is the fastest option for long-distance travel. While I encourage travelers to embrace local transport, it is important to understand that the driving conditions in Kenya can be different from what you might be used to. City driving can be dangerous due to large crowds and many roads outside the city are in need of repair.
Essential Tips for Travelers
- Get a SIM Card: Kenya is quickly becoming one of the most digitized nations in the world. In fact, a 2022 report showed that 96% of Kenyan households use M-Pesa, an East African money transfer service. In many instances in Kenya, M-Pesa is the only payment method accepted. Another benefit of having a Kenyan SIM is the ability to use taxi services like Bolt and Uber. I purchased an Airtel SIM Card at the Jomo Kenyatta Airport in Nairobi, but there are kiosks for all the major mobile service providers including Safaricom and Telcom.
- Set Up M-Pesa: Use of the mobile app has significantly cut down on petty theft and robbery, so many businesses use it as their primary form of payment. If you have a local SIM, setting up an M-Pesa account is quick. I highly recommend doing this at the same branch where you purchase your SIM card, where an accredited agent can help you get started. You will need your passport on hand and a PIN code you remember.
- Learn Some Swahili: While both English and Swahili are both commonly spoken in Kenya, learning a few Swahili words can go a long way. Not only is it a sign of respect for the local culture, but having a few words can get you out of some sticky situations.
- Try Nyama Choma: You can’t skip this Kenyan national dish - meat barbecued to perfection and served with a side of cornmeal ugali. Quick Tip: It isn’t hard to find Nyama Choma in Kenya - the dish is everywhere!
- Haggle at Markets: Haggling is embraced in Kenya, so come prepared for some serious bargaining. While there are certain spaces where haggling isn’t accepted (restaurants, malls, and hotels) local markets are the perfect place to put your bartering skills to the test. However, be aware that many vendors expect tourists to overspend because they don’t understand the environment. I found many vendors were upcharging tourists about 50-75% of what an item would usually sell for, so don’t be afraid to counter a first offer with around 50% less.
- Respect Tourist Taxes: Many places in Kenya have three entry prices - citizens, residents, and non-residents (tourists). For example, when I hiked Mount Longonot on my trip to Kenya, my Kenyan friend Kevo paid 300 KSH ($2.50 USD) whereas I paid 2500 ($20 USD) for the same hike. It can certainly be frustrating to have to pay higher prices, but remember that “tourist taxes” are a small price to pay for the privilege to explore a new country. Don’t let the tourist tax discourage you from visiting Kenya, but do set your expectations (and budget!) accordingly!
- Carry a Reusable Water Bottle: Single-use plastic is banned in Kenya. This means you won’t be able to take plastic water bottles into many protected areas and will need to carry a reusable water bottle with you. This filtered water bottle from Water-To-Go has been my savior from the high Andes of Peru to the wadis of the UAE and most recently in Kenya. The water in Kenya is not safe to drink, so having access to clean water is crucial. A filtered water bottle is a bit of an investment up front but will save you hundreds over time. Gone are the days of stocking up on plastic bottles, simultaneously saving you room in your backpack and saving the environment.
Kenya's Wildlife Viewing
Kenya is a safari hotspot because it offers fantastic year-round game viewing, thanks to its moderate climate and wide-open spaces. Because the land is so flat and open, it's really easy to get a 360-degree view and to spot animals.
Arguably Kenya's biggest wildlife gem: the crossing of about two million wildebeest (and zebra and gazelle) over the Mara River into the Masai Mara National Reserve to feast on fresh grazing. It's impossible to know exactly when the wildebeest will cross the Mara River - they decide and the mind of a gnu is pretty inscrutable. They don't all cross in one place at the same time either: large groups will cross at different places on different days. Predators make the most of the arrival of prey.
Although Kenya is technically a Big 5 destination in the sense that lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino are found here, it's difficult to see them all in the same place. It's much easier to find leopards, lions, buffalo and elephant. The Migration brings out predators en masse and although they aren't part of the Big 5, cheetah are ideally adapted to the Mara's wide, flat, open plains that allow them to reach top speed with few obstacles.
If you want to see rhino, then head to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. It has a successful and highly sophisticated conservation project that has seen these gentle giants thrive. Lewa is a safe haven for the critically endangered black rhino, as well as endangered Grevy's zebra and wild dog. Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya's Laikipia region is another fantastic destination to see rhino.
Tailoring Your Safari
Getting your timing right depends on many things. Solo travellers, families and honeymooners should tailor their safari to their interests - if you love camping at home, for example, then consider time in an authentic tented camp.
When you plan a trip to Kenya, there is so much to see and do that it can be difficult to whittle down your itinerary to just a select few. No matter what the best Kenya safari for you entails, from seeing the Great Migration to ethical encounters with giraffes and elephants in Nairobi, your trip can help conserve the environment and wildlife. Our Trips With A Purpose are a collection of safari itineraries that offer a visits or immersive, hands-on experiences that support local conservation projects. Not only will you stay in the finest accommodations and beautiful locations, but the below luxury Kenya safaris also give you the opportunity to experience unique activities like camelback safaris and traditional village visits.
Kenya's Diverse Landscapes
You may be surprised to learn that your wildlife safari in Kenya is just the beginning! The country offers far more than spectacular wilderness experiences. AfricanMecca can also arrange a tranquil coastal escape to Kenya’s distinct beaches, seaside villages and isolated islands! The azure and turquoise blue waters of the Indian Ocean lap against long stretches of castaway white sand beaches to create a utopian setting that invites you to relax, detox and escape the modern world. You may also wish to venture into the more divergent landscapes, such as lake areas, desolate deserts, forests, mountains and highlands. Lakes like Nakuru, Baringo, Elementaita, Naivasha, Victoria and Bogoria offer a diversity of avi-fauna for bird lovers! Our adventurous guests will find a trek atop Mount Kenya challenging and thrilling. The equatorial forests of Kenya are home to primates, insects, birds and other creatures great and small. The Northern Frontier of Lake Turkana offers an extreme volcanic landscape that is rarely traveled by humans and animals. Traverse a vastly wild landscape of eerie formations and hominid fossils that tell a part of Earth’s story at Koobi Fora. Perhaps you wish to spend time in a more traditional town setting. If so, AfricanMecca can arrange a seaside trip to Kenya’s Lamu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through narrow, labyrinth alleys taunted by the fragrance of spices. Visit some of the quaint duka shops in the old town that appear in varied corners. Tour historical landmarks such as the centuries-old ruins and an Omani Fort. Examine the architectural details of spiritual buildings that are used by many of the world’s religions. Visit other island and seashore destinations like Mombasa, Malindi, Watamu and Kilifi or secluded mangrove and coral islands like Funzi and Chale. These are the just sample experiences of magical Kenya at its very best.
Top 10 Places To Visit in Kenya - Travel Video
With over 25 years of traversing safari destinations under their belt, our African Safari Experts are perfectly positioned to craft a Kenya holiday that ticks all your boxes.
Kenya appears on most adventure-traveler’s bucket lists, with dreams of spotting zebras in the Maasai Mara or biking with giraffes in Hell’s Gate. Above all else, remember to relax, enjoy, and have fun on your trip to Kenya. These tips can help you make informed decisions to guide your trip, but remember that sometimes the best adventures are unplanned. I hope you find new adventures throughout your trip to Kenya!
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa | E-visa available online |
| Currency | Kenyan Shilling (KSH) |
| Transportation | Rideshare apps (Bolt, Uber), public buses, trains |
| Health | Vaccinations, antimalarials (consider purchasing in Nairobi) |
| Safety | Be aware of surroundings, especially in major cities |
