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    Safari in Kenya
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    Safari in Kenya

    East Africa · 52 parks

    Best time
    Jan–Mar, Dec
    Lodges
    from $165pp/night
    Visa & health
    See travel info

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    Kenya is synonymous with safari, home to the legendary Masai Mara and the annual Great Migration. With diverse landscapes from savanna to mountain forests, it offers world-class Big Five viewing and a well-developed tourism infrastructure.

    Kenya safari regions

    Safari Regions

    Best time to visit Kenya

    Kenya is a safari powerhouse, and we believe there's never a bad time to visit, but timing can enhance your experience. For the iconic Great Migration river crossings, we love June through September,...

    January

    Now
    moderate

    Dry Season

    Expect warm, sunny days with cooler evenings. Rainfall is minimal, making it ideal for exploring.

    Predator activity is high as they take advantage of the dry conditions. Birding is good, though not at its peak.

    We love the clear skies and excellent game viewing this month, perfect for photographers.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Samburu National Reserve

    February

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Still very dry and warm, with temperatures often peaking. Water sources are scarce, concentrating wildlife.

    Calving season begins in the southern Masai Mara, attracting predators. It's a fantastic time for lion and cheetah sightings.

    We recommend heading south in the Masai Mara to witness the dramatic start of the calving season.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Tsavo West National Park
    Lake Nakuru National Park

    March

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry spell continues, though the first short rains might begin towards the end of the month.

    The migration is usually still in the southern Mara plains, with excellent predator action. Birding is improving.

    We find March offers a great balance of wildlife viewing and fewer crowds before the rains arrive.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Shaba National Reserve

    April

    low

    Long Rains

    This is typically the wettest month, with heavy, often afternoon, downpours. Landscapes turn lush and green.

    Wildlife disperses as water is plentiful. Game viewing can be challenging due to wet conditions, but birding is excellent.

    We enjoy the dramatic skies and the vibrant green scenery, though game drives require flexibility.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Samburu National Reserve
    Lake Nakuru National Park

    May

    low

    Long Rains

    Rainfall usually decreases but can still be significant. The landscape is at its most verdant.

    The migration is typically in the western or central Mara. Birding remains superb, with resident and migratory species.

    We love the quiet tranquility and the photographic opportunities presented by the lush, green environment.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Tsavo East National Park
    Meru National Park

    June

    moderate

    Green Season

    The rains taper off, leading to cooler temperatures and clear skies. The landscape is still very green.

    The Great Migration begins its dramatic river crossings in the Mara. Predator sightings are excellent.

    We consider June one of the best months for witnessing the iconic Mara River crossings.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Samburu National Reserve

    July

    peak

    Green Season

    Cooler temperatures and dry conditions prevail. The landscape is drying out but still retains some green.

    The Great Migration is in full swing, with daily river crossings a highlight. Predator action is intense.

    We find July offers unparalleled wildlife drama with the peak of the migration and its river crossings.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Lake Nakuru National Park
    Ol Pejeta Conservancy

    August

    peak

    Green Season

    Dry and cool, with sunny days. This is peak safari season for many.

    The migration continues its northern journey, with river crossings still possible. Excellent general game viewing.

    We recommend August for its reliable game viewing and the chance to see the migration in its full glory.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Samburu National Reserve
    Tsavo West National Park

    September

    peak

    Green Season

    Dry and pleasant, with temperatures warming slightly. The landscape starts to show signs of the coming dry season.

    The migration begins to move south, but river crossings can still occur. Predator-prey interactions remain high.

    We love September for the continued excellent game viewing and the chance to catch the tail end of the migration.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Meru National Park

    October

    moderate

    Short Rains

    The short rains usually begin this month, bringing brief, localized showers. Temperatures are warm.

    Wildlife begins to spread out again. Birding is excellent as migratory species arrive. Predator activity is still good.

    We find October offers a great opportunity for birdwatching and often fewer crowds than the peak months.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Samburu National Reserve
    Lake Nakuru National Park

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains can be unpredictable, with showers often occurring in the afternoon. Landscapes become greener.

    Wildlife is dispersed but accessible. The arrival of resident birds and the start of breeding plumage make for great birding.

    We appreciate the fresh green landscapes and the excellent birding opportunities this month.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Tsavo East National Park
    Ol Pejeta Conservancy

    December

    high

    Dry Season

    The short rains usually end, leading to warmer, dry conditions. Expect sunny days and pleasant evenings.

    Wildlife congregates around water sources, making for good viewing. The migration is usually back in the southern Mara.

    We recommend December for its classic dry season game viewing and the festive atmosphere.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Samburu National Reserve
    Best months:
    February
    June
    September
    Jan
    Great21°C62mm
    Feb
    Great22°C40mm
    Mar
    Great22°C70mm
    Apr
    Fair21°C153mm
    May
    Great21°C82mm
    Jun
    Great20°C32mm
    Jul
    Great20°C51mm
    Aug
    Great20°C50mm
    Sep
    Great21°C49mm
    Oct
    Great21°C56mm
    Nov
    Good21°C132mm
    Dec
    Great21°C62mm
    Great (4-5)
    Good (3)
    Poor (1-2)
    Best month

    What a Kenya safari costs

    • Lodges: from $165pp/night up to $3,000, across 28 priced lodges
    • Add park fees, flights and transfers; most safaris are sold as packages that include them.
    Full Kenya cost guide

    Top safari lodges in Kenya

    More lodges in Kenya

    Wildlife in Kenya

    320 species recorded in Kenya25 threatened

    Bookable safari packages

    Curated safari packages featuring Kenya, bookable through Safari.com. Prices are guide rates; our partner finalises the itinerary.

    3-Day Masai Mara Fly-in Safari with Governors Camp

    3-Day Masai Mara Fly-in Safari with Governors Camp

    • 2 nights at Governors' Camp on the banks of the Mara River
    • 45-minute scenic flight from Wilson Airport over the Great Rift Valley
    From $1,864
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire
    4 Day Fly-in Masai Mara Safari

    4 Day Fly-in Masai Mara Safari

    The Masai Mara is well known for its year-round concentration of animals, big cat sightings and the Great Mammal Migration which occurs annually - a wildlife spectacle not to be missed!

    • 3 nights at &Beyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp in the Masai Mara
    • Dawn and dusk game drives tracking lion, cheetah, elephant and buffalo
    From $4,143
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire
    7-Day All-Inclusive Masai Mara to Zanzibar Safari

    7-Day All-Inclusive Masai Mara to Zanzibar Safari

    This 7-day bush and beach safari delivers an unforgettable journey, blending the wild, open plains of the Masai Mara with the serene, turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean in Zanzibar. Guests will experience the freedom of the vast savannahs and the tranquil beauty of sandy beaches, creating a perfect contrast between adventure and relaxation.

    • 3 nights at Governors' Camp on the Masai Mara, then 3 at Nungwi Dreams in Zanzibar
    • Twice-daily game drives and guided bush walks in the Masai Mara
    From $4,064
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire
    8-Day Ultra-Luxurious Safari & Island Escape: Kenya to Seychelles

    8-Day Ultra-Luxurious Safari & Island Escape: Kenya to Seychelles

    Begin your journey with 3 nights at the exclusive &Beyond Bateleur Camp in Kenya, where you'll immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Maasai Mara and encounter awe-inspiring wildlife. Afterward, escape to the tranquil island of La Digue in Seychelles for 4 nights, where pristine beaches await. This perfect combination of thrilling safari adventures and tropical relaxation offers the ultimate getaway.

    • 3 nights at &Beyond Bateleur Camp in the Maasai Mara
    • Twice-daily game drives across the Mara plains with Big Five sightings
    From $9,131
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire
    10-Day Best of East Africa Migration Safari

    10-Day Best of East Africa Migration Safari

    Your adventure starts in Nairobi, showcasing modern Kenyan style, before heading to the Masai Mara to see the Big Five, Mara Cats, and the Great Migration (July-November). Stay at Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp for a classic safari experience. Next, travel to the Serengeti, spending two days at a mobile camp with prime views of the migration. Visit Ngorongoro Crater, a wildlife haven, and stay two nights at Melia Ngorongoro with stunning views. End your trip at Lake Manyara National Park, known for tree-climbing lions and flamingos, staying at the Lake Manyara Tree Lodge. A perfect mix of unique stays and incredible wildlife.

    • 2 nights at Karen Blixen Cottages with visits to David Sheldrick Trust and Giraffe Centre
    • 2 nights at Kichwa Tembo in the Masai Mara for Big Five game drives
    From $13,085
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire
    9 Day Masai Mara, Serengeti & Manyara Safari

    9 Day Masai Mara, Serengeti & Manyara Safari

    Explore some of Africa's best game parks on this 10-day safari through Kenya and Tanzania. Set out on an adventure combined with 5-star luxury lodges, and enjoy game drives, fine dining, and five-star service — and keep watch for the "Big Five.

    • 1 night at Hemingways Nairobi on arrival
    • 2 nights at andBeyond Bateleur Camp in the Masai Mara tracking the Big Five
    From $10,254
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire

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    Visa, health & safety in Kenya

    Visa Requirements for Kenya

    Check if you need a visa to visit Kenya

    Health & Vaccinations for Kenya

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    Kenya offers some of the world's most iconic safari experiences, and with a few sensible health and safety precautions, it remains an incredibly rewarding destination. We encourage you to travel with reputable operators, stay informed, and embrace the adventure with confidence. Your safety is paramount, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the magic of the Kenyan wilderness.

    Vaccinations

    Yellow Fever - Required if you're arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission, and we highly recommend it for all travellers visiting safari areas.
    Typhoid - Essential for most travellers, as it's transmitted through contaminated food and water.
    Hepatitis A & B - We always advise these for protection against common infections.
    Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio (TDAP) - Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.
    Rabies - Consider this if you plan extended stays, especially in rural areas, or if you'll be working closely with animals.

    Visa Requirements

    For most nationalities, including those from the US, UK, EU, and Australia, you'll need an e-visa to enter Kenya. We strongly recommend applying for this online well in advance of your travel dates through the official eVisa portal. It's a straightforward process, but don't leave it until the last minute.

    Malaria

    Malaria is a risk in most of Kenya's safari parks, coastal regions, and lower altitude areas. Nairobi and the central highlands are generally considered low-risk. We absolutely recommend discussing anti-malarial prophylaxis with your doctor before your trip. Beyond medication, always use insect repellent with DEET, sleep under mosquito nets where provided, and wear long sleeves and trousers at dusk and dawn to minimize bites.

    Travel Insurance

    Comprehensive travel insurance is non-negotiable for any safari, and for Kenya, we consider it absolutely essential. Crucially, ensure your policy includes emergency medical evacuation, often referred to as 'Medevac' cover. Should a serious medical issue arise in a remote safari camp, this ensures you can be swiftly transported to a well-equipped hospital. We often recommend policies that include membership with organizations like the Flying Doctors Society of Africa for that extra layer of peace of mind.

    Emergency Numbers

    police: 999
    ambulance: 112

    Travel Advisory

    From our extensive experience, Kenya is a remarkably safe destination for safari travellers. The vast majority of incidents affect residents in urban areas, not tourists on safari. In cities like Nairobi or Mombasa, we advise against walking alone at night and recommend using reputable taxis or ride-sharing apps. Petty crime, like pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas, so always be aware of your belongings. We've always felt secure when travelling with established safari operators, who prioritize guest safety above all else. Always check current government travel advisories before you depart.

    Kenya safari FAQs

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