Kenya Travel Insights

East Africa Safari Adventures & Gorilla Trecking: Kenya, Tanzania & Uganda - 21 Days

Enjoy a three-week wildlife and cultural adventure in East Africa, a region abounding with national parks, reserves, and tribal communities. The safari truck awaits as you set off into Kenya's most famous parks, like Masai Mara, to spot elephants, lions, cheetahs, and more. Then, cross into Tanzania for more thrilling game drives on the Serengeti and the volcanic crater at Ngorongoro before continuing deep into the Ugandan rainforest to witness the last remaining wild mountain gorillas in the world.

Wild East African Odyssey: Savannas & Beaches in Kenya & Tanzania - 21 Days

Experience the splendor of East Africa on a three-week journey to two of its most gorgeous and biodiverse countries: Kenya and Tanzania. Meet rescued animals, like elephants and giraffes, in Nairobi, then see these animals in the wild on game drives. After a hot-air balloon trip over the golden savannas of the Masai Mara Reserve, you'll cross into Tanzania for more safari fun, including at the "Cradle of Mankind," Ngorongoro, before wrapping up with snorkeling and sunset cruises in Zanzibar.

1 Week in Kenya - 3 Safari Itinerary Ideas

With one week to spend in Kenya, you can comfortably visit four safari destinations. Travelers wanting to hit the highlights can go on game drives to spot the Big Five in Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru, while those looking to discover lesser-traveled destinations can venture to Samburu for a cultural exchange and to see the world's last two white rhinos at Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Birders will enjoy bush walks, spotting exotic species at Taita, and over 500 species like secretary birds and hornbills at Tsavo.

Epic Wildlife Adventure in Kenya & Tanzania - 21 Days

Dive into Kenya and Tanzania's cultural and natural wonders on this three-week itinerary, starting with a tour of Nairobi led by a former street kid. Visit elephants and giraffes at two sanctuaries before embarking on thrilling game rides in three national parks. Transfer to Arusha in Tanzania, where more wildlife adventures, a hot-air balloon ride over the Serengeti, and a Maasai cultural experience await. Finish back in Nairobi for a bean-to-cup coffee experience at a nearby estate.

2 Weeks in Kenya - 3 Safari Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in Kenya, you can spend ample time at six to seven wildlife-rich destinations. Travelers wanting to see the highlights can go on game drives at Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara National Reserve, while those preferring lesser-known destinations can experience flamingoes at Lake Elmenteita and hike to the "hippo pools" at Thompson Falls. Bird-watchers will enjoy seeing endemic African species during bushwalks at Taita and Tsavo East.

10 Days in Kenya - 3 Safari Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days to experience Kenya's safari scene, you can visit up to five destinations. Highlights like Lake Nakuru's wetlands and Masai Mara near Nairobi are perfect for spotting Africa's famous Big Five. Travelers wanting to go off the beaten path will enjoy game drives at hidden gems like Samburu National Reserve and tracking white rhinos and lions at Ol Pejeta Conservancy, while birders will delight in discovering some of Kenya's over 1,000 avian species at wildlife havens like Amboseli and Tsavo.

5 Days in Kenya - 3 Safari Itinerary Ideas

Even with a short five-day trip to Kenya, you can experience the area's best wildlife at two to three safari destinations. Venture a few hours outside of Nairobi for a fast-paced highlights tour of Nakuru, Masai Mara, and Lake Naivasha, visit the hidden gems of Aberdare National Park and Samburu National Reserve to see "Special Five" animals, or focus on game drives and bird-watching adventures in Amboseli and Tsavo National Parks.

Kenya Safari Highlights: Nakuru, Masai Mara, Naivasha, Amboseli & Tsavo — 14 Days

For culture, natural beauty, and exotic wildlife, you can't do better than Kenya. It's home to ancient ethnic cultures, like the Maasai people, plus many national parks and reserves—one of which runs right up to Nairobi's city limits. This ultimate two-week itinerary is packed full of adventures, including safaris in Nairobi National Park, Masai Mara, and Amboseli, hand-feeding giraffes, marveling at the red elephants of Tsavo, traveling to the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, and much more.

Kenya Off-the-Beaten-Path Safari: Aberdare, Samburu, Loisaba & More - 14 Days

See a side of Kenya that most travelers miss on a two-week hop around its most exotic parks, reserves, and conservancies. The rewards for your intrepid exploration are many and include visits to flamingo-filled saline lakes and romantic waterfalls. In parks and reserves like Aberdare and Samburu, you'll marvel at rare animals like Grévy's zebras and Somali ostriches, plus stop in at rescue centers that look after everything from chimpanzees to the last remaining white rhinos in the world.

Kenya Wildlife & Bird-Watching Safari - 14 Days

Embark on a two-week adventure to uncover Kenya's dual allure as a premier safari and birding destination. As you travel across renowned national parks like Tsavo and Amboseli, you'll spot many of the country's 1,000-plus bird species alongside the magnificent Big Five on game drives and bush walks. Round out your vacation with a luxury stay on the white sands of the Diani coast and a mouthwatering food tour in Mombasa.

Kenya Off-the-Beaten-Path Safari: Nairobi, Aberdare, Samburu & Ol Pejeta - 7 Days

Buckle up for a once-in-a-lifetime safari through some of Kenya's lesser-visited natural highlights. This week of wildlife adventures starts in Nairobi, where you'll learn about conservation efforts and meet endangered Rothschild's giraffes at a local sanctuary. Then, it's off to spot elephants in the wild mountains of Aberdare and seek out the"Special Five" species of Samburu. Later, travel to Ol Pejeta Conservancy to marvel at the rarest specimens of all: the critically endangered northern white rhino.

Kenya Wildlife & Bird-Watching Safari: Nairobi, Amboseli, Tsavo & Taita- 10 Days

With over 1,000 avian species, Kenya is a birder's dream. This 10-day safari adventure takes you through some of the country's greatest bird-watching destinations, from the foothills of Kilimanjaro to the volcanic landscapes of Tsavo—as you hop from lodge to lodge and embark on a packed itinerary of game drives and bush walks. Alongside spectacular feathered specimens like secretary birds and hornbills, you'll have plenty of chances to spot iconic African wildlife like lions, cheetahs, elephants, and more.

Kenya Wildlife & Bird-Watching Safari: Amboseli, Tsavo & Taita - 7 Days

Kenya is home to a menagerie of exotic wildlife beyond the famous Big Five game animals, including over 1,000 avian species. Binoculars in hand, you'll glimpse the highlights as you embark on this weeklong safari from Amboseli National Park in the foothills of Kilimanjaro to the arid savannas and acacia forests of Tsavo—in thrall to exotic and rare specimens ranging from secretary birds and hornbills to lions, red elephants, and more.

Kenya Off-the-Beaten-Path Safari: Aberdare, Samburu, Ol Pejeta & Elmenteita - 10 Days

Brace yourself for a once-in-a-lifetime African experience that is almost too good to be true. The itinerary is packed with safari adventures at hidden-gem national parks like Aberdare and Samburu, where you'll spot Big Five animals like lions, plus marvel at elephant herds right from the terrace of your lodge. But that's just the start—the apex of this journey is a visit to a rare wildlife sanctuary to spend time with rescued chimps and the world's last remaining northern white rhinos.

Kenya Safari Highlights: Nairobi, Masai Mara & Lake Naivasha - 10 Days

Journey to East Africa and experience the natural and cultural highlights of the continent in one of the best places for it: Kenya. Perfect first-timers, this safari adventure will take you both on and off the beaten path, starting with game drives around the capital city of Nairobi, followed by a deeper dive into the legendary Masai Mara, ancestral home of the Maasai people. Then venture to the wetland ecosystem of Lake Naivasha, where boat tours get you up close to hippos, crocs, and more.

Kenya Safari Highlights: Nakuru, Masai Mara & Lake Naivasha - 5 Days

Have under a week to spare for the safari adventure of a lifetime? Not a problem when your destination is Kenya. Enjoy five action-packed days, starting with Lake Nakuru, whose wetland ecosystem is a haven for wildlife ranging from flamingoes to rhinos. Continue on to the savanna plains of Masai Mara to spot lions, leopards, and other specimens before finishing with water safaris at Lake Naivasha and a trip to marvel at the soaring cliffs of Hell's Gate.

Kenya Off-the-Beaten Path Safari: Aberdare & Samburu - 5 Days

Venture into northern Kenya to discover prime safari destinations unknown to most travelers, like Aberdare and Samburu. Over a mere five days at these national parks and reserves, you can enjoy game drives to spot the most exotic creatures on the continent, from lions and rhinos to rare specimens like reticulated giraffes and Grévy's zebras. Along the way, you'll stay in luxury safari lodges and camps, where you can witness herds of elephants up close as you sip your morning coffee.

Kenya Wildlife & Bird-Watching Safari: Amboseli & Tsavo - 5 Days

This quick five-day wildlife tour of Kenya is almost literally a "feather in your cap," as you witness some of the country's most exotic avian species, from secretary birds to hornbills. But it's also a classic safari adventure, as over a few days, you'll visit national parks like Amboseli and Tsavo to spot famously exotic creatures, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and much more.

Kenya or Tanzania Safari

Choosing between a safari in Kenya or Tanzania can be challenging, as both countries offer unique experiences and incredible wildlife diversity. To help you make the best decision, we've gathered insights from kimkim's local specialists in Kenya and Tanzania, who share their knowledge on activities, wildlife diversity, accessibility, travel safety, and accommodations in both countries.

How Many Days to Spend in Kenya

If you have two weeks to spend in Kenya, you can visit several wildlife reserves and national parks, devote time to beaches and learn about the local people and their culture. Most travelers come to Kenya to go on safari, and this can be done comfortably, however, in as few as five days by sticking to the places closest to Nairobi. With longer in Kenya, you can visit a great range of parks or fit in other activities.

Zanzibar Beach Holiday - 5 Days

If you're looking to escape the daily grind, five days in a tropical paradise like Zanzibar might be what the doctor ordered. More than inviting white-sand beaches and crystalline waters, the island of Zanzibar is also home to a rich culture and fascinating medieval history. You'll experience it all, plus have your pick of various optional activities—including a romantic sunset cruise.

Tanzania Safari Adventure - 5 Days

The great misconception about going on safari in Africa is that you need at least a couple of weeks. In reality, even in just five days, you can enjoy the safari experience of a lifetime. This itinerary includes game drives in three different national parks in Tanzania—one of the continent's most popular and famous safari destinations—Lake Manyara National Park, Serengeti National Park, and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Best of Kenya: Wildlife & Beaches - 9 Days

No need to choose between wildlife safari or beach vacation—on this diverse 9-day Kenyan itinerary you'll get the best of both worlds. After landing in Nairobi, you'll spot hippos and flamingos on a boat tour of Lake Naivasha, embark on an unforgettable safari into the Maasai Mara National Reserve, and experience life in a traditional Maasai village. End your adventure by heading to the coast, where you can relax and recharge on the white sands of Diani Beach.

10 Days in Kenya - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

If you have 10 days to spend in Kenya, you'll likely want to spend a few on safari in Maasai Mara National Reserve. How you organize the rest of your time is up to you: round out your adventure with more wildlife viewing in the country's top national parks, or opt for a relaxing trip to the white sandy coastline of Diani Beach. You could even add Uganda into the mix, crossing the border to enjoy a one-of-a-kind gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Safari and Gorilla Trek in Kenya & Uganda - 10 Days

Welcome to the African wilderness! On this guided tour of Kenya and Uganda, you'll visit Amboseli National Park, go on a safari in the world-famous Maasai Mara National Reserve, and get to know the Maasai people in their villages. Then cross the border for an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park—it's the wildlife viewing experience of a lifetime.

Wildlife and Beaches of Kenya - 10 Days

Offering a mix of active adventures, cultural sightseeing, and relaxation, this 10-day tour of Kenya has something for everyone. Enjoy a safari experience in Maasai Mara National Reserve, interact with baby elephants at an elephant orphanage, and learn about Maasai traditions at Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp. Wrap up with a few days on the white sands of Diani Beach before heading back to Nairobi.

2 Weeks in Kenya - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks is a perfect amount of time to spend in and around Kenya. There are many ways to structure your trip. Combine a wilderness safari with a cultural tour around the country, focus on birdwatching as you travel around Kenya's top national parks, or cross the border and add in a few days in Uganda for a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking adventure. Learn more about your options with the itineraries below.

South Africa Adventure & Kenya Safari - 14 Days

You can see South Africa and Kenya on this wide-ranging two-week tour around both countries. Start in Cape Town, where you'll hike to the top of Table Mountain, taste locally produced wines, and see whales and penguins in their natural habitats. Then cross the border to Kenya, where national parks and lakes rich with wildlife await. You'll enjoy multiple safari days, spotting elephants, giraffes, and lions in the wild. You'll also have the chance to interact with local people during a visit to the Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp.

Best Time of Year to Visit Kenya

Kenya has a definite peak tourism season, but that is not the only good time to visit. If you want to go on safari and witness the Great Migration or climb Mount Kenya, you'll be restricted to specific months. Otherwise, there are benefits to coming at other times of the year, although the "big rain" season is best avoided. Read on to find out more about the best time of year to visit Kenya.

1 Week in Kenya - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Kenya is an excellent place to holiday in Africa, especially for safari-goers. With an entire week, you'll experience the country's healthy national park and conservancy presence with loads of wildlife, mixed with possible cultural experiences, beach relaxation, and active excursions, including a multi-day trek. Below, are several expertly crafted itineraries packed with iconic Kenyan adventures (and even one with neighboring Tanzania)—all with cool overnight options in eco-lodges and safari camps.

5 Days in Kenya - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With less than a week in Kenya, you can make the most of your time by visiting the vast landscapes within a three-hour radius of Nairobi. While it may be tempting to cover more ground, sticking to this geographical area gets you out of the car frequently for many activities and wildlife. Below are several expertly crafted itineraries loaded with iconic Kenyan experiences.

Kenya in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

December is a wonderful time to visit Kenya—the weather is warm and reasonably dry yet the crowd sizes are still manageable, particularly at the beginning of the month. You'll get some rain but it's not constant, offering plenty of days to take a wildlife safari or stroll through the markets of Nairobi. Another great thing about this shoulder season is that prices are lower so you can find plenty of deals on hotels and airfare.

Kenya in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

November can be a fantastic time for a Kenya vacation—the weather is warm, the tourist numbers are moderate, and the Mombasa Carnival gets underway on the coast. That said, you'll need to prepare for some rain. It's a shoulder season which means you get a little bit of everything: some days are sunny while others get pummeled with rain showers. They don't typically last long, however, so as long as you bring a good rain jacket you're still bound to enjoy yourself.

Kenya in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

October is a fantastic time to visit Kenya, although you'll want to come earlier in the month for the best tourist conditions. The first couple of weeks are dry with warm, pleasant temperatures. Herds of wildebeests migrate across the Mara River, along with giraffes, zebras, and other savannah creatures. By the end of the month, however, the rains begin and wildlife becomes harder to spot.

Kenya in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

September is one of the best times of the year to visit Kenya. It's still hot and sunny but the crowds have tapered off ever-so-slightly. The last of the wildebeests are wandering through Maasai Mara so you can still catch their migration, and the rains of October haven't yet arrived. Prices remain high, as it's officially considered peak season; however, you won't contend with the huge masses of mid-summer.

Kenya in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

August is high season in Kenya when the weather is warm and dry. The lack of rain, combined with ideal air temperatures, makes it an excellent month to watch the Great Wildebeest Migration in Maasai Mara, or treat yourself to the spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Just keep in mind that the nice weather brings crowds and it will be busier this time of year.

Kenya in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

By July, the dry season has arrived, the rains are gone, and high tourist season is in full swing. It's a fantastic time to watch wildlife roam the savannah or soak up breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro. It's relatively cool in Nairobi, averaging in the 70s, with slightly hotter temperatures along the coast. The only downside to visiting in July is that crowds begin arriving in large numbers.

Kenya in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

After a short rainy season between March and May, June ushers in the beginning of drier weather—and the onset of Kenya's busy high season. The first part of the month is typically a bit wetter and, as you move toward the middle and end, it gets drier and sunnier. The combination of pleasant weather, excellent wildlife viewing, and an abundance of tourist activities make it a great time of year to visit.

Kenya in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The rainy season is in full effect during the month of May when showers arrive in the afternoons throughout most of the country. Also dubbed the "green season," the vegetation is lush and beautiful this time of year but wildlife is harder to spot. There are lots of mosquitos and, in addition to the rain, it's hot and muggy. The upside, however, is that crowd sizes are small and prices are excellent.

Kenya in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

April is a wet, rainy month in Kenya. The coasts are extremely hot and rainstorms are frequent and steady. Meanwhile, wildlife is tougher to spot on safaris due to thick vegetation and lack of animals visiting water sources. The upshot, however, is that it's a cheap time of year to visit—and there are hardly any tourists. Plus, since rain often only falls in the afternoon, you'll still have time to enjoy the morning hours.

Kenya in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

In March, the weather transitions quickly from "hot and dry" to "wet and rainy." The precipitation renders many of Kenya's national parks inaccessible and it becomes harder to book safaris or view wildlife. That said, prices are fantastic this time of year and there are hardly any tourists. Plus, if the rains arrive later in the month as they occasionally do, you can enjoy all the benefits of a March trip without the lousy weather.

Kenya in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

February is the dry season in Kenya and, due to the lack of rain, also the high season. The absence of mud and wet soil makes the savannah easy to access and perfect for wildlife safaris. Destinations like Samburu National Reserve and Maasai Mara teem with elephants, zebras, and giraffes, and others while temperatures in the city are warm and pleasant, lingering in the high 70s to mid-80s. Do keep in mind that this is peak season—expect more tourists and higher prices than other times of year.

Kenya in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Due to the dry weather, January is considered high season in Kenya—a great time to spot spectacular wildlife in Maasai Mara or soak up stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli National Park. The temperatures in Nairobi typically hover in the high 70s to mid-80s while coastal towns around Mombasa average about 90°F. It's a fantastic time for hiking, exploring, and safari-going, the only downside being that it tends to be crowded.

Cultural Kenya: Wildlife, History & Art - 14 Days

While many tours of Kenya focus on the country's spectacular wildlife, few offer a deep dive into East African culture. This lively two-week tour does both. Learn about the history behind the so-called "cradle of humankind" by visiting Kenya's top museums and cultural sites, including the Nairobi National Museum, the Karen Blixen House, and the Baden-Powell Museum. Then get out and explore the country's famous landscapes, including the Great Rift Valley, Amboseli National Park, and the Maasai Mara National Reserve.

Wildlife & Culture in Kenya - 14 Days

Explore nature and wildlife in Kenya with safaris and visits to Maasai villages in several national parks, starting with the famous pink flamingos at Lake Bogoria and Lake Nakuru. Watch Maasai Mara's Great Migration from land and air in an optional hot air balloon ride, then visit the giraffes of Crescent Island on Lake Naivasha. Search for the Big Five and enjoy scenes of elephants grazing below Mt. Kilimanjaro in Amboseli National Park before returning to Nairobi to visit the Giraffe Center and Kazuri bead workshop.

Kenya & Tanzania Wildlife Safari - 7 Days

This exciting itinerary includes unforgettable game drives in Kenya and Tanzania for travelers who like to be on the move. Start with two nights in Nairobi for an introduction to Kenyan culture and wildlife conservation. Then, fly to Kilimanjaro, where you'll visit three beautiful safari destinations, including the Serengeti and UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Crater. Enjoy the comfort of private transfers and unique all-inclusive lodgings for the ultimate African adventure.

Explore the Masai Mara Game Reserve - 5 Days

Explore the rich ecosystem of the Masai Mara Game Reserve with daily safaris and the option for hot air balloon rides above the river valley. You'll start in Nairobi with a quick tour of the city, then head to the park where you'll enjoy observing the Great Migration across the Mara River. Along with expert guides, you'll look for the Big Five populations, spotting giraffe, lion, hippo, and zebra from game drives, and elephants from the comfort of your camp's viewing lounge.

Kenyan Culture & Wildlife: Lake Victoria, Kisumu, & Maasai Mara - 8 Days

Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa and the second-largest freshwater lake by surface area in the world, giving you plenty to explore on this eight-day itinerary. Dive into lake life on Rusinga and Mfangano islands, stroll the streets of Kisumu city, and safari through the famous Maasai Mara reserve as you enjoy a spectrum of what Kenya has to offer.

Kenya Safari & Beach Honeymoon - 7 Days

This weeklong romantic adventure in Kenya is perfect for couples seeking a mix of beach, culture, and wildlife. Kick off the trip in Nairobi, where you'll meet baby elephants and charming giraffes. Then head to a national park on the Tanzanian border to glimpse 'Big Five' wildlife from an open-top Landcruiser. Finish with three nights on a gorgeous white sand beach, close to sacred jungles and monkey sanctuaries.

Mount Kenya Hike & Wildlife Tour - 5 Days

This active Kenyan trip covers a lot of ground in under a week. After a night in the bustling capital, a private driver will take you on a scenic drive to Mount Kenya National Park. This is where you'll hike to a camp situated above 10,000 feet, with views of the country's highest peak. Then, descend to Nanyuki—a traveler hub with international cuisine—before heading to a renowned wildlife conservancy for a day of adventures. Finish with a morning game drive before returning to Nairobi.