Kenya Travel Guide
A trip to Kenya offers a world of natural beauty and wildlife experiences. From the plains of the Masai Mara to the peaks of Mount Kenya, Kenya is a perfect place to seek out the Big Five, get up close and personal with orphan elephants, see conservation efforts in action, and soak in the beauty of the diverse landscape.
Best time to visit
Dry season in Kenya—taking place from June to October—is an excellent time to visit as there’s almost no rain and the temperature is moderate. Safari destinations in Kenya tend to be best visited between January and March, when the climate is mild and game viewing is at its height. If you’re hoping to witness The Great Migration in Masai mara, you’ll need to visit between August and October. Even a rainy season visit between mid-March to June is worthwhile in Kenya to avoid crowds and enjoy lower rates.
Top regions to visit
Masai Mara National Reserve
Many people think of the Masai Mara when they think of a safari in Kenya, and for good reason. The area is known for its abundant wildlife and the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras, and offers unforgettable safari experiences with opportunities to see the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo). This is also a great area for hot air balloon rides.
Nairobi
Nairobi is the lively capital city of Kenya and home to attractions like Nairobi National Park, the Giraffe Centre, and the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. It’s also where you’ll find the famous Giraffe Manor—a hotel where giraffes roam the property and are often seen peeking their heads through windows.
Laikipia Plateau
The area boasts the second highest density of wildlife in Kenya. With many private wildlife reserves, ranches, and conservancies, this is a great destination for a more exclusive safari experience. The region is also focused on sustainable tourism and wildlife protection.
Amboseli National Park
Known for its views of Mount Kilimanjaro, this national park also has great wildlife viewing, from herds of elephants and zebras to wildebeests, lions, and many bird species.
Top activities in Kenya
Visit Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is an orphan elephant rescue and wildlife rehabilitation program founded in 1977. Every day, visitors have the chance to join the elephants at their midday mud bath. You can also donate money to adopt an orphan elephant (don’t worry, you won’t have to take them home!).
Game Drives
Game drives are popular across Kenya, and many accommodations will offer an experienced guide to take you out on safari. On a game drive, you’ll have the chance to view wildlife in their natural habitat and see the magnificent creatures of the country up close.
Hot air balloon ride
Float gently over the Masai Mara in a hot air balloon. The Angama Mara is a great place to stay that offers hot air balloons in the area. You’ll set off before dawn to your launch site and enjoy coffee and snacks in the balloon as the sun rises over the open plain.
View the Great Migration
Every year between July and October, millions of wildebeest, zebras, cheetah, and other animals migrate from Serengeti national Park in Tanzania to the Masia Mara in search of fresh grazing land. Witness the Great Migration is a truly unforgettable experience that’s best booked through either a lodge or experienced guide.
Best hotels in Kenya
Hemingways Nairobi—This boutique property is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the world and boasts beautiful views of the nearby ngong hills that can be appreciated from your balcony
Angama Mara—Built on the edge of the Great Rift Valley, this property offers heart-stopping views as far as the eye can see. The lodge is a short drive from some of the best year-round game viewing, and the luxury tents have end-to-end glass windows and private decks overlooking the Mara Triangle.
Segera Retreat—An oasis of luxury located in the grasslands of the Laikipia Plateau. Each of the six timber and thatch villas come with a private deck, a swing bed, and a sunken jacuzzi outside the bedroom. You’ll also enjoy incredible dining experiences here with plenty of extraordinary indoor and outdoor settings.
Bri’s insider tip: A stay at Segera Retreat offers the opportunity to spend a night sleeping out in the Birds Nest—a luxury suite located about 10 minutes from the main lodge. Here, you’ll sleep out underneath the stars, listening to the sounds of the savannah. There’s a bed indoors if you prefer not to spend the whole night outside, but if you’re up for it, waking up the sunrise is an incredible experience.
Start planning your trip to Kenya
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