After exploring the raw wilderness of Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, Kenya was next on my safari list—and it did not disappoint. While Botswana felt more rugged and untouched, Kenya boasts a well-established tourism industry, offering both advantages and trade-offs. On the positive side, Kenya provides exceptional variety in wildlife viewing—from the Big Five in the Maasai Mara to flamingos at Lake Naivasha. On the downside, popular parks can get crowded, game drives may involve more traffic, and prices are generally higher than in its southern neighbors.
The diversity of animals and landscapes makes Kenya one of the top safari destinations in Africa. However, those breathtaking social media videos of dramatic hunts and wild chases require patience, luck, and time in the parks. What you witness on your game drives is a mix of careful preparation, local knowledge, and spending ample hours in the field. To catch some of the most intriguing wildlife moments—or to spot elusive big cats like cheetahs and leopards—one must be genuinely passionate about wildlife. Alternatively, it’s wise to manage your expectations and not be disappointed if you don’t witness the iconic river crossings of the Great Migration or a dramatic hunt. For instance, we went during the peak migration season and still couldn’t catch the river crossing in the Mara River (a true bucket-list item) or spot a leopard, which eluded us for all six days we were there.
Is Kenya Safe?
Kenya is generally safe for tourists, but common sense is key. Popular safari parks and resorts maintain high security, and guided tours reduce most risks. If you visit cities like Nairobi or Mombasa, stay aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated areas after dark, and safeguard valuables. Petty crime exists, but violent crime targeting tourists is rare. Travelers who follow basic safety guidelines and stick to recommended areas usually have a trouble-free experience.
To travel within Nairobi, Mombasa or Diani Beach, use Uber or Bolt as they’re not only safe & reliable but also reasonable. Do not use the local taxis/ cabs.
Do You Need a Yellow Fever Vaccine?
You don’t need a Yellow Fever certificate to enter Kenya unless arriving from a country with a risk of transmission. Some countries, like India and Singapore, may require proof on return, while others, such as the UAE, do not. Check the requirements of your home country (or destination after Kenya) to be sure of the current rules. In case a certificate is required, the vaccine must be taken at least 7-10 days before your trip, so prepare accordingly. Many travelers choose to get vaccinated as a precaution, especially if planning to explore remote areas like Maasai Mara. Personally, I did not get the vaccine and had no issues. While I came prepared with mosquito repellents, I barely needed them despite reports about mosquitoes and insects in some parks.
Best Time to Travel to Kenya
Kenya is a year-round destination, but experiences vary depending on the season. Dry periods—from late June to October and January to February—are ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather near water sources and vegetation is sparse. To witness the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara, plan your trip between July and early September, when millions of wildebeest cross the plains. For coastal relaxation, December to March offers warm, sunny weather along the Swahili Coast. July–September is still feasible for the coast but be prepared for seaweed and mild rains on the beaches despite the stunning white sands.
Packing for Your Trip to Kenya
When we visited in August, the days were pleasantly warm, but the nights turned quite chilly, with a couple of mornings bringing unexpected rain. I’d recommend packing waterproof shoes and clothing, along with a warm jacket for those early morning game drives.
An unsaid rule for safaris is to wear neutral or pastel colors—think beige, khaki, olive, or light browns—that blend with the natural surroundings. Bright or bold colors can stand out in the wild, sometimes distracting animals or even attracting insects. Dressing in earthy tones not only makes the experience more comfortable but also helps you feel like part of the landscape rather than a visitor standing out in it.
Also, don’t forget the essentials: sunglasses, sunscreen, insect or mosquito repellent, binoculars (if you have them), and a zoom lens for your phone or camera. Since vehicles cannot always get very close to the animals, good optics will make a big difference in capturing those incredible wildlife moments.
Self-Drive Safaris or Guided Tours?
While self-drive safaris are popular in Kenya, guided tours are highly recommended. A skilled local guide not only ensures safety but also greatly enhances the wildlife experience, helping you spot animals and understand their behavior. On one of our game drives, we saw a couple attempting a self-drive safari get their car badly stuck in the swamp. Navigating marshy terrain requires experience, and situations like this highlight the convenience of an organized tour and experienced driver.
Choosing a Safari Operator: Tips & Cautions
We booked our tour with Wild Race Africa Tours & Travel, which made the journey seamless and enjoyable. That said, there are many other equally good operators in Kenya. One resource I found particularly helpful is SafariBookings.com, which collates itineraries, prices, and user reviews from different operators—making it easier to choose the best safari for yourself.
A few words of caution: Kenya tour operators are not always known for being completely honest or transparent. There is a possibility of small scams or misleading information. For example, we were told we would get a Land Cruiser, but ended up in an old, uncomfortable vehicle with rough seating and exposed edges—far from the modified, excellent Land Cruisers we saw others using. Similarly, ask for the exact camps you will stay at in the national parks, as conditions vary widely. We stayed at Miti Mingi Eco Camp, and unfortunately, it had major issues with hot water, food quality, and the state of the tents. Always insist on knowing the exact vehicle and accommodation, and read reviews thoroughly before confirming.
When booking your safari package, you can start with a basic budget option that usually accommodates you in campsites just outside the entrances to the national parks. From there, it’s possible to upgrade—at an additional cost—to lodges, boutique hotels, or even luxurious 5-star properties, some of which are located inside the parks themselves. The choice really comes down to your budget, but the higher-end stays can offer a truly unforgettable experience—imagine waking up to zebras grazing or giraffes strolling right outside your window.
The cost of your safari package will also depend on the time of year you travel. Peak season—especially during the Great Migration—tends to be the most expensive. To give you a sense of pricing, we paid around US $1,000 per person for a basic budget package covering 6 days and 5 nights across Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Amboseli in August, right in the heart of migration season.
How Much Time Should You Spend in Kenya?
For a well-rounded experience, one week in Kenya is ideal. Typically, 5–6 days can be spent exploring national parks such as Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Amboseli, while the remaining days allow for relaxation along the beaches of Diani, Watamu, or Malindi.
Many travelers focus only on Maasai Mara for 4–5 days, which is undeniably the best park for wildlife viewing. However, if you enjoy adventure and don’t mind long road journeys, a 6-day package combining multiple parks provides a fantastic way to explore Kenya’s stunning landscapes—from the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli to exotic birds, rhinos, and hippos in the lakes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned safari-goer, Kenya promises a journey that is as diverse as it is unforgettable.
Tipping & Negotiation Protocols
Tipping and negotiation are important aspects of travel etiquette in Kenya. While tipping is never mandatory, it is widely appreciated, especially for tour guides, drivers, lodge staff, and porters.
When shopping at local markets or with street vendors, bargaining is expected, but always approach it with respect and a friendly attitude—starting at roughly half the asking price and negotiating upwards. Polite negotiation is seen as part of the experience and can be a fun way to engage with local culture.
You will have plenty of souvenir shops along the way but most of these are quite expensive as they’re catering to tourists. We found some roadside shops in Mombasa/ Diani Beach which were much more reasonably priced, so if you’re eventually heading there, hold off on the souvenir shopping until then!
The Perfect 1-week Itinerary: Balancing Safari & Coast
My recommended one-week Kenya itinerary strikes the perfect balance between thrilling safari adventures and relaxing time on the Swahili Coast. It allows you to experience multiple national parks while completely skipping Nairobi—a city I personally felt was worth skipping beyond the museum visit, given limited attractions and safety concerns. This way, you get to focus on what Kenya does best: incredible wildlife, stunning landscapes, and serene coastal beaches.
Day 0: Arrival in Nairobi
You’re most like to arrive in Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling capital city. I wouldn’t recommend keeping time aside for exploring the city but depending on your flight schedule, if you do have some time to explore, here’s where you can go:
- Karen Blixen Museum & Giraffe Centre: A cultural and wildlife stop where you can explore the home of Out of Africa’s author and hand-feed endangered Rothschild’s giraffes.
- Carnivore Restaurant: A legendary dining spot famous for its all-you-can-eat meat feast, featuring everything from beef and chicken to exotic game meats.
Spend the night in a city hotel to rest before the early start the next day. Click here to book your stay.
Day 1: Nairobi → Maasai Mara
Set out early in the morning for the world-famous Maasai Mara National Reserve, a drive of around 5–6 hours. You will either arrive at your lodge in time for lunch or have lunch in a restaurant along the way. Late afternoon, you will head out for your first game drive. The Mara is home to the iconic Big Five—lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo—so expect thrilling sightings right away. Even on our very first drive, we spotted herds of wildebeest, zebras, giraffes, and even a pride of lions chilling under an acacia tree.
Most camps will have a small bar where you can grab inexpensive drinks, and a bon fire to warm up before your dinner. I lived the vibe at the camps- it was the perfect opportunity to interact with travellers from across the globe, exchange your game drive stories of the day, play some music and dance. On the first night, you’ll arrive back slightly late after the evening game drive, and probably a little tired too after the long road journey.
Day 2: Full Day in Masai Mara
On Day 2, wake up early for a morning game drive—the best time to catch dramatic predator-prey encounters, if luck is on your side! You’ll spend the day exploring the Maasai Mara, and if you’re visiting between July and September, you might witness the breathtaking Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras move across the plains in perfectly coordinated lines. While seeing this spectacle is almost guaranteed during these months, witnessing the Mara River crossing requires a bit of fortune.
Although we missed the river crossing, we did spot the aftermath: a few wildebeest carcasses on the riverbank, victims of drowning or crocodile attacks earlier that morning. We even came across a dozing crocodile, likely full and exhausted from his hunt!
The full-day drive includes a picnic lunch in the park and a stop at a unique spot for an evening drink—the Hippo Bar at Muthu Keekorok Lodge. If your driver doesn’t suggest it, insist on stopping! It’s a fantastic spot to sip a drink while watching hippos laze in the pool, right in the heart of the national park.
Before heading to your campsite, you’ll have the option to visit a traditional Maasai Village (additional cost: $10). This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the Maasai way of life, including their unique customs, colorful attire, and traditional homesteads. You will get the chance to interact with the villagers, learn about their age-old traditions, witness a warrior dance (and participate in it too!). It’s a short but enriching detour that adds a cultural dimension to your safari adventure.
Day 3: Maasai Mara → Lake Nakuru
After breakfast, drive toward Lake Nakuru National Park (about 5–6 hours). If time allows, you might be able to stop at Lake Naivasha for a boat ride, on the way to Lake Nakuru. This freshwater lake is home to hippos and various bird species. A short boat ride takes you towards the Crescent Island, which is a private sanctuary famous for its walking safaris. Unlike typical game drives, you can explore the island on foot, getting up close to giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and other wildlife in a safe, predator-free environment. The boat ride is not included in your package and needs to be paid for ($20 per person).
You will then head to your hotel in Lake Nakuru for the overnight stay.
Optional Extension: Some itineraries allow you to extend this day with an additional overnight in Lake Naivasha, including a visit to Hell’s Gate National Park, famous for its dramatic cliffs, gorges, and walking safaris. Trekking through the park offers a chance to walk alongside wildlife like zebras and gazelles while taking in towering rock walls and geothermal features. While it may not be included in your extended itinerary, ask your tour guide to also arrange a visit to the Olkaria Hot Springs, a natural geothermal hot spring where you can relax and soak in warm waters amid stunning surroundings—an experience that combines adventure with rejuvenation.
Day 4: Lake Nakuru → Amboseli National Park
You will start the day with an early morning game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park. Famous for its large populations of flamingos and pelicans, the park also shelters endangered species such as the black and white rhino. On your afternoon game drive, you might also encounter Rothschild’s giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and if you’re lucky, tree-climbing lions. The lake, set against forested hills, provides a great backdrop for photography.
Late morning, you will depart for Amboseli National Park, a long drive (about 7–8 hours) with a stop for lunch on the way. Amboseli is renowned for its dramatic views of Mount Kilimanjaro—the tallest mountain in Africa—towering in the background. You’re likely to arrive at your camp late evening, not leaving enough time for a game drive.
Day 5: Full Day in Amboseli
Today, you will dedicate a full day to Amboseli’s landscapes and wildlife. Early mornings are best for catching clear views of Kilimanjaro before the clouds roll in. Game drives here offer excellent opportunities to see elephants, lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and an array of birdlife. We visited a nice bar in a resort located amidst the national park, called Ol Tukai Lodge Amboseli. We sat by the pool, enjoyed exotic cocktails while observing the zebras (unfortunately, it was too cloudy to see the Kili peak anymore!!).
At the end of the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to visit another nearby Maasai village for an enriching cultural experience.
Day 6: Amboseli → Nairobi; Train to Mombasa
After an early morning game drive, return to Nairobi (4 hours journey) and board the modern Madaraka Express train to Mombasa. This journey is an experience in itself, as the route cuts through Tsavo National Park, often offering glimpses of elephants, giraffes, and other wildlife from your window. The ride takes about 5–6 hours. If you prefer to save time, you can also take a direct flight from Nairobi to Mombasa—or even to Ukunda Airport, which is much closer to Diani Beach and allows you to skip Mombasa altogether. Flights take roughly 1 hour; from Mombasa Airport, it’s a 45-minute drive to Diani Beach, while from Ukunda it’s just 10 minutes.
We opted for the Madaraka Express, as we love train journeys and had heard great things about this one. If you choose the same, expect to arrive in Mombasa late in the evening. The best option is to spend the night at a city hotel before continuing to your Diani Beach resort the following morning.
Suggested place to stay in Mombasa: Sentrim Castle Royal Hotel.
Day 7: Relax at Diani Beach
Arrive in Diani, one of Kenya’s most stunning beaches, famed for its powdery white sand and sparkling turquoise waters. This is the perfect time to slow down and relax after the thrill of safari adventures. Spend your day swimming, sunbathing, or trying out water sports such as snorkeling, kitesurfing, or paddleboarding. As the sun sets, unwind with a fresh seafood dinner at one of the many beachside restaurants.
Diani Beach offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets, from lively resorts in the heart of Diani to more tranquil retreats at nearby Galu Beach, which offers a quieter, laid-back vibe. We stayed at Diani Sea Lodge (all-inclusive) for two nights and absolutely loved it—the perfect blend of comfort, great food, and stunning beachfront views.
Here’s what you can do, if you choose to step out of your resort:
- Get a beach massage: Treat yourself to a relaxing massage right on the sand, listening to the waves while letting the gentle sea breeze melt away your stress, for as less as $10.
- Visit the roadside souvenir market: Browse colorful stalls offering locally crafted jewelry, fabrics, carvings, and other unique keepsakes to bring home a piece of Kenya.
- Nomad Beach Bar & Restaurant: Enjoy sundowners, fresh seafood, and cocktails with stunning views of the Indian Ocean at one of Diani’s most iconic beachfront spots.
- Watersports: Many people along the beach front will be selling watersports activities like snorkeling, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, or jet-skiing.
Within Diani Beach, tuk-tuks are a great way to get from one point to another.
Day 8: Day Trip to Chale Island
This comes highly recommended by me! Chale Island is a private island paradise just off the coast of Diani. Surrounded by coral reefs and mangroves, it’s ideal for snorkeling, diving, or simply relaxing in its pristine surroundings.
The island is home to Chale Island Resort, a premium property renowned for offering an idyllic and truly rejuvenating getaway, an ideal choice for those looking to unwind completely. While it is on the higher end in terms of price—though still more accessible than many of its neighboring Zanzibar properties—staying here is an unparalleled experience. If an overnight stay isn’t within your plans or budget, a day visit is still absolutely worth it, allowing you to enjoy the island’s excellent beache, lush surroundings, and top-notch facilities without spending a night.
While many tour operators will offer this full day trip which includes transfers from your hotel and costs $150+ per person, I’d recommend getting in touch directly with the hotel for a day package which includes lunch, usage of their facilities (pools, beach, loungers, towels, etc) and the boat (or tractor) transfer from Chale port/ jetty to the resort (5 min). You’ll just need to get yourself to the port (simply take an Uber) from your resort.
This is for someone looking to have a relaxed day just enjoying sunbathing and gorgeous sea views. Alternatively, you may take a boat excursion from Dinai Beach along the pristine coastline or out to the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park, where you’ll have the chance to spot playful dolphins in their natural habitat, swim in crystal-clear waters, and snorkel among vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish.
Return to Diani Beach in the evening.
Day 9: Diani Beach → Return to Nairobi
Of course, there’s no limit to how long you could enjoy the beauty of Diani Beach. However, if your time is limited—as it was for us—you’ll need to make your way back to Nairobi. You can take a short domestic flight from Ukunda Airport (Diani’s local airport) to Nairobi, or travel by train or flight from Mombasa. Depending on your departure schedule, you may have the opportunity to spend a final evening in Nairobi before catching your international flight home.