Kenya
Experience magical Kenya and the thundering wildebeest migration.
Kenya is a land of vibrant hospitality where "Karibu" (Welcome) is more than a greeting—it’s a way of life. For travelers looking to immerse themselves in the magic of East Africa, Kenya offers a seamless transition from the thrill of the wild to the serenity of the coast.
The Heart of the Safari
Your journey begins on the golden plains of the Maasai Mara, where the earth itself seems to hum with life. Beyond the famous Great Migration, the Mara is a year-round sanctuary where you can share a sunrise with a pride of lions or take to the skies in a hot-air balloon for a bird's-eye view of the savannah. The beauty of a Kenyan safari lies in its diversity; you can watch elephants graze against the backdrop of a snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli, or head north to Samburu to discover rare wildlife found nowhere else on earth. These parks aren't just for viewing animals; they are places to connect with the ancient traditions of the Maasai and Samburu people, whose rhythmic chants and colorful "shukas" bring the landscape to life.
Coastal Bliss and Cultural Charms
After the dusty excitement of the bush, the Kenyan coast awaits with its "pole pole" (slowly slowly) pace of life. Diani Beach welcomes you with brilliant white sands and turquoise waters, perfect for a sunset dhow cruise or a dip in the warm Indian Ocean. If you’re a history lover, the narrow, winding alleys of Lamu Old Town offer a peaceful escape into a world of Swahili culture and donkey-lined streets, while the bustling energy of Nairobi provides the perfect bookend to your trip. Whether you're feeding giraffes at the Giraffe Centre or enjoying a "Nyama Choma" (roasted meat) feast with new friends, Kenya's warmth ensures that you arrive as a guest but leave as a part of the family.
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Suggested Itineraries for Kenya
Our experts know Kenya like the back of their hand and have traveled extensively around the country, they have put together some trips to inspire you.
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Where to go in Kenya
We offer a range of carefully curated unique journeys for you to choose from, or we can personally custom design a safari, family holiday, wedding, or honeymoon to suit your special travel interests, schedule and desires. See our favourite journeys below or explore more by destination.
Maasai Mara National Reserve
Home to the Great Migration (typically July–October), where over 1.5 million wildebeest and zebras brave crocodile-infested rivers in a primal display of life and death. Even outside of migration season, "The Mara" offers arguably the best predator sightings in Africa, with lions, leopards, and cheetahs frequently seen on the hunt.
Amboseli National Park
The park is a photographer's dream. At dawn, the clouds often clear to reveal the mountain's summit, providing a majestic backdrop to the elephants wading through the emerald-green Enkongo Narok marshes.
The Great Rift Valley Lakes (Nakuru, Naivasha, & Bogoria)
Lake Nakuru is famous for its "pink fringe" of flamingos and is a premier sanctuary for both black and white rhinos. Nearby Lake Naivasha offers tranquil boat safaris past hippos, while Hell’s Gate National Park allows you to cycle or hike among giraffes and zebras through towering basalt cliffs.
Samburu Special Five (Northern Kenya)
This region is home to the "Samburu Special Five"—species found only north of the equator: the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, beisa oryx, and the long-necked gerenuk. It offers a quieter, more "off-the-beaten-path" safari experience compared to the southern parks.
Nairobi: The World’s Wildlife Capital
Nairobi National Park is the only place on Earth where you can photograph a wild rhino or lion with a backdrop of city skyscrapers. For a more intimate experience, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust allows you to watch orphaned baby elephants being fed, while the Giraffe Centre offers the chance to come face-to-face with the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe.
Diani Beach & The South Coast
Frequently voted the best beach in Africa, Diani is a hub for relaxation and adventure. You can skydive over the coastline, kitesurf the trade winds, or take a traditional dhow to the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park to swim with wild dolphins in crystal-clear coral gardens.
When is the best time to visit
Kenya ?
The best time to travel to Kenya depends on whether you want to witness the world-famous wildebeest migration or enjoy a relaxing beach getaway. For most travelers in 2026, the Dry Season (June to October) is the ultimate window for a visit.
The Peak: July to October
This is the most iconic time for a Kenyan safari. As the land dries out, animals congregate around water holes, making them incredibly easy to spot.
- The Wildebeest Migration: In August and September 2026, the migration will be at its peak in the Maasai Mara. This is when you have the best chance of witnessing the dramatic, high-stakes Mara River crossings.
- Weather: Expect clear blue skies and sunny days, though early morning game drives can be quite chilly (around 10°C), so bring layers.
Frequently Asked Questions
As of 2024, Kenya replaced traditional visas with the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). All foreign visitors (including infants and children) must apply for an eTA through the official government portal at least 3 to 7 days before travel. The processing fee is approximately $30 USD. Unlike the old visa system, the eTA is mandatory for everyone regardless of age, and you must have your approved eTA before boarding your flight.
Yes, Kenya is generally very safe for tourists, especially within organized safari circuits like the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Laikipia. Most travelers fly directly into parks or use reputable tour operators who provide professional driver-guides. While the northern and eastern border regions (near Somalia and Ethiopia) have higher travel warnings, the main tourist hubs remain stable. In cities like Nairobi, common-sense "urban rules" apply: avoid walking after dark and keep valuables out of sight.
While most vaccinations are "recommended" (such as Typhoid, Hepatitis A, and Polio), a Yellow Fever certificate is mandatory if you are arriving from a country where Yellow Fever is endemic. Additionally, most of Kenya’s top safari destinations are in malaria-prone zones. It is highly recommended to consult a travel clinic for anti-malarial prophylaxis and to use insect repellent, especially at dawn and dusk.
In 2026, Kenya is a global leader in mobile payments (via M-Pesa), but for tourists, a mix of cash and cards is best.
- Credit Cards: Widely accepted in major hotels, upscale restaurants, and safari lodges (Visa and Mastercard are preferred).
- Cash: Essential for tipping, local markets, and rural areas. Carry Kenyan Shillings (KES) for daily use.
- US Dollars: Many lodges accept USD, but they must be crisp, clean bills printed after 2006 (older bills are often rejected by banks).
Tipping is customary and forms a significant part of the income for safari staff. While always at your discretion, the industry standard for 2026 is:
- Safari Guide: $10–$20 USD per person, per day.
- Camp/Lodge Staff: $5–$10 USD per day (usually placed in a communal tip box at the end of your stay).
- Porters: $1–$2 USD per bag.