Explore our Kenya Safari Destination Guide — an immersive, magazine-style travel guide curated by Africa safari specialists. Discover the best time to visit Kenya, iconic safari experiences, seasonal wildlife highlights, and essential travel insights to help you plan a thoughtfully tailored African safari.
WELCOME TO KENYA
04 VISAS, HEALTH AND ADAPTORS CONTINUED Lighting in eco-friendly camps is often softer to reduce environmental impact, so having a small battery-powered reading light or extra batteries for your devices can be helpful.
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PACKING ESSENTIALS & GUIDELINES
Table of Contents
Packing for safari is all about comfort, practicality, and preparation well in advance of the trip.
08 WITNESS THE WORLD’S GREATEST SPECTACLE - ON THE MOVE.
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VISAS, HEALTH AND ADAPTORS Your adventure awaits. But before you go, make sure these key prepara- tions are in place.
FOR KEEN PHOTOGRAPHERS
The Great Migration is not in the Masai Mara year- round. The herds typically enter Kenya from July to October, with the remaining months shaped by resident wildlife and seasonal patterns.
Kenya is a photographer’s dream – a land where light, landscape, and life align in perfect harmony. Dawn brings soft golden hues over the Mara, cast- ing long shadows across acacia-dotted plains.
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THE BIRTHPLACE OF SAFARI, WHERE WILD DRAMA & DEEP HERITAGE CONVERGE. Kenya is safari at its most iconic best know for the great Migration!
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DISCOVER KENYA’ S RICH CULTURES, WILD LANDSCAPES, AND UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES. Step into Kenya’s breathtaking wilderness, where nature’s finest drama unfolds across sweeping savannahs and ancient plains.
THE GREAT MIGRATION DATES
FINAL PREPARATIONS CHECKLIST
In Kenya, the Great Migration usually arrives in the Maasai Mara between July and August as herds cross from Tanzania.
A simple guide to ensure every detail is in place before you embark on your unforgettable safari journey.
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THE SOUL OF KENYA – ITS PEOPLE
Kenya’s greatest treasure isn’t only its wildlife or its wild landscapes. It’s her people. Across this vast country, from the bustling city of Nairobi to the acacia-dotted plains of the Mara, you’ll be welcomed with smiles so genuine they feel like sunlight.
PRACTICAL TRAVEL TIPS
Make the most of your safari experience with these practical insights on money, travel, and connectivity
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Africa set the rhythm. 14
UNTIL WE MEET IN KENYA
A GUIDE TO THE GREAT MIGRATION IN AFRICA
WHAT AWAITS YOU ON SAFARI?
Before you begin your adventure, take a breath and let
Kenya offers year-round safari opportunities, with each season revealing its own unique beauty.
The vast plains of the Masai Mara a National Reserve await each year for one of nature’s most remarkable events.
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The birthplace of safari, where wild drama & deep heritage converge. K enya is safari at its most iconic. Picture endless plains dotted with acacia trees, herds of wildebeest
walk alongside Maasai warriors, or discover elephant strongholds in the remote Samburu. From game-rich reserves to tropical coastlines, Kenya is a land of contrasts and connection, where timeless wilderness meets curated adventure. It is all of this combined with its people, whose love for their country - and its future - is incredibly strong.
on the move, and big cats resting in the golden light. This is the birthplace of safari, home to the legendary Masai Mara, the snow- capped peaks of Mount Kenya, and vibrant cultural traditions that shape every journey. Drift over the Mara in a hot air balloon,
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The Soul of Kenya – Its People
A cross this vast country, from the bustling city of Nairobi to the acacia-dotted plains of the Mara, you’ll be welcomed with smiles so genuine they feel like sunlight. The people of Kenya are as diverse as the land itself, with more than forty tribes, each with its own rhythms, colours, and customs, living together under the same wide African sky. You’ll meet the proud Maasai in their scarlet shúkàs, guardians of age-old traditions; the coastal Swahili communities whose heritage blends African, Arab, and Indian influences; and the Kikuyu farmers who call the slopes of Mount Kenya home. Yet no matter where your journey takes you, there is a shared heartbeat, cross this vast country, from the
bustling city of Nairobi to the acacia-dotted plains of the Mara, you’ll be welcomed with smiles so genuine they feel like sunlight. Languages English is widely spoken, but a few words of Swahili always bring a smile: ● Jambo – Hello ● Asante sana – Thank you very much
● Karibu – Welcome ● Pole pole – Slowly
Insider Tip:
Always ask before photographing people; your guide can facilitate respectful cultural exchanges.
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Visas, Health and Adaptors
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V isas and Entry Requirements All visitors, including infants and children, must have an approved Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before travelling to the Republic of Kenya.
Insider Tip:
A multi-entry visa is not available for Kenya. Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda can be visited on a single visa known as the East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV). This visa allows travel between Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda on one application. However, Kenya does not form part of this arrangement and requires its own separate visa. Health and Wellness Yellow Fever Required only if you are travelling from or transiting through a Yellow Fever risk country (e.g. Uganda, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Ghana, Brazil, Peru, Colombia). Proof of vaccination must be shown on arrival. A single dose of the Yellow Fever vaccine now provides lifetime protection. Always consult your healthcare provider before making a decision. Multiple Entry
and departure details) Accommodation booking confirmation A payment method (credit or debit card) We can assist with the application process at an additional cost of $50 per person. This fee does not include the eTA cost. We will require the information listed above. Insider Tip:
If you are flying via Nairobi, Addis Ababa, or another East African hub, check your layover times. A long connection may trigger the requirement.
Malaria
Malaria is present in parts of Kenya. Speak to your doctor about the best prophylaxis (preventative tablets) for you. Lodges supply mosquito nets, but wearing long sleeves in the evenings and using repellent is strongly advised.
How to apply
eTA: Apply online before you travel through the official eTA website. Applications are usually processed within 3 days, however it is recommended that you submit your application at least 2 weeks before departure to allow enough time for processing. Cost: Between $50 and $100 per person.
Arrival Process
On arrival, make your way to Immigration and Passport Control. You will need to present your passport, visa, onward itinerary, and Yellow Fever certificate (if required). Fingerprints and a photo are usually taken at immigration.
Prescription Medication
You may bring your prescription medication, but keep it in its original packaging. Carry a copy of your prescription and bring enough for your entire trip. A small personal medical kit with pain relievers, cough drops, and antihistamines is recommended.
You will need:
A valid passport with a minimum of 6 months’validity and at least two blank pages A recent passport photo Contact details for each traveller (email and phone number) departure details) Travel itinerary (arrival
Insider Tip:
Your adventure awaits. But before you go, make sure these key preparations are in place.
Book a “meet and assist” service at the airport. It provides a dedicated escort to guide you through the arrival process.
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Drinking Water (Kenya)
Kenya uses the UK-style three-pin plug (Type G) with 230V electricity, so be sure to bring a universal adaptor for your devices. Many safari lodges operate on solar power or generators, which can mean limited electricity at certain times. However, our luxury lodges provide continuous power and do not shut down electricity. Because power can be limited, it’s a good idea to charge essential items— such as cameras, phones, and power banks—whenever electricity is on. Carrying a small solar charger can also be useful for remote areas. If you use medical equipment that requires power, like a CPAP machine, inform your lodge in advance. Most properties can accommodate special electrical needs, but early notice ensures everything is set up for your arrival. Lighting in eco-friendly camps is often softer to reduce environmental impact, so having a small battery-powered reading light or extra batteries for your devices can be helpful. It’s also wise to bring extra charging cables and a power strip if traveling with multiple devices. Electricity and Adaptors (Kenya)
Insider Tip: For all Kenyan trips booked with us, medical evacuation cover is included. In case of a medical emergency, you will be evacuated to the nearest suitable hospital.
Only drink bottled or filtered water. This is always provided at your lodges and in safari vehicles throughout Kenya’s safari regions. Many camps now offer reusable water bottles with refill stations as part of their sustainability efforts. Please avoid drinking tap water. Use bottled or filtered water when brushing your teeth to avoid accidental ingestion of untreated water. While most lodges maintain high safety standards, these simple precautions help prevent unnecessary stomach issues during your trip. If you require extra water at any time, whether at the lodge or while traveling between regions such as the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu, or Tsavo, just let your guide or camp staff know. They are always happy to assist and ensure you remain comfortable and well-hydrated throughout your stay. Many travelers also find it helpful to carry a small insulated bottle to keep water cool throughout the day, especially during midday heat. This makes it easier to stay consistently hydrated while enjoying bush walks, cultural visits, or extended wildlife sightings out on the plains, providing added convenience, comfort, and peace of mind as you explore different environments and experience the varied landscapes throughout your safari adventure.
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05 tep into Kenya’s breathtaking wilderness, where nature’s finest drama unfolds across sweeping savannahs and ancient plains. This is home to the legendary Great Migration, one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife events. Every year, millions of wildebeest and zebra thunder across the Maasai Mara in search of fresh grazing, creating a mesmerizing display of movement, survival, and instinct. It is a sight that captures the power and beauty of Africa’s untamed heart. S Beyond the world-renowned wildlife encounters, Kenya offers experiences that stay with you forever. See the soft pink shimmer of flamingo-filled Rift Valley lakes, where thousands of birds move as one across still water. Walk with Maasai guides as they share ancestral knowledge, savour coastal dishes infused with spice and history, or glide across calm waters on a traditional dhow at sunset. From exhilarating safaris to peaceful moments in nature, every day brings new discoveries waiting to unfold. Whether you’re a first-time explorer or a seasoned traveller, Kenya’s magic is truly irresistible. Its blend of vibrant culture, iconic wildlife, and awe-inspiring scenery creates a destination that feels both timeless and deeply alive. Come witness a land where every sunrise tells a story, every smile feels like home, and every experience becomes a memory you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Explore Kenya’s untamed beauty where every horizon invites you to feel the magic of Africa.
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Game drives – Explore with expert guides who bring the bush alive with stories and sightings. Midday rest – Return to camp for a relaxed lunch and time to unwind, swim, or simply soak in the views. Afternoons – Another game drive as the light softens and animals emerge, often ending with a scenic sundowner. Evenings – Share stories around the fire, enjoy dinner under the stars, and drift off to the sounds of the African night.
Kenya offers year-round safari opportunities, with each season revealing its own unique beauty. Dry Season (June – October): Clear skies, abundant wildlife, and the Great Migration at its peak in the Masai Mara. Green Season (January – March): Warm, clear days and excellent game viewing, especially around Amboseli and the southern Mara. Long Rains (April – May): Quieter safaris, dramatic skies, and rich, rejuvenated landscapes at exceptional value. Pack light layers - mornings and evenings on safari can be chilly while midday brings warm sunshine. Insider Tip: Climate & Times to Travel
rare “Samburu Five”: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, beisa oryx, and gerenuk. In Laikipia’s private conservancies, intimate encounters with wild dog, rhino, and leopard showcase Kenya’s conservation success. Birdlife dazzles, from flamingos on Lake Nakuru to the vibrant flash of lilac-breasted rollers. Each region tells its own story, every game drive a moment of discovery: a lion’s roar at dawn, elephants gathering at a waterhole, or a sunset where giraffes drift like shadows across a golden horizon. No two safaris are ever the same. Some days you may spend the full day in the bush, enjoying a picnic lunch under a shady acacia, while on others you will return to camp for a leisurely midday break. In certain reserves, only closed vehicles are permitted, while in others you will explore in open 4x4s, both designed to give you the best experience of the wilderness. A Typical Day on Safari Early mornings – Wake before sunrise for coffee or tea before heading out on a game drive, when wildlife is most active. A typical safari day often follows this rhythm:
What Awaits You on Safari?
Safety on your Safari
Always remain inside your vehicle unless your guide invites you to step out. Respect the animals’ space: never attempt to feed, touch, or call to them. Nighttime: in unfenced camps, always request an escort after dark. Animals may roam through camp, and guides know how to keep you safe. Think of yourself as a guest in the animals’ home. Respect park rules, keep your distance, and leave only footprints behind. Insider Tip:
Wildlife Highlights
Kenya is the heartbeat of the African safari, a land where wildlife roams free across vast, untamed landscapes. In the Masai Mara, the Great Migration thunders across the plains as wildebeest and zebra navigate predator-filled rivers in one of nature’s greatest spectacles. Amboseli offers unforgettable views of elephants beneath snow-capped Kilimanjaro, while Samburu reveals the
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Summary for a migration safari: July: Mara River crossings in the Northern Serengeti and Masai Mara August to September: Peak Mara River crossings in the Masai Mara October: Herds disperse through the Northern Mara grand trek is not a single moment of spectacle, but a fluid journey shaped by rain, grass, and the rhythm of life in the wild. Here is when and where to join the story. T 07 he vast plains of the Masai Mara National Reserve await each year for one of nature’s most remarkable events: the great movement of wildebeest and zebra from the southern Serengeti into Kenya. This
A Guide to the Great Migration in Africa
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Witness the world’s greatest spectacle- on the move. The Great Migration is not in the Masai Mara year-round. The herds typically enter Kenya from July to October, with the remaining months shaped by resident wildlife and seasonal patterns.
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July In July, the first herds enter the Masai Mara, following new grass across the southern plains. Early river crossings may begin at the Mara and Talek Rivers, marking the start of peak migration season. August
January January brings warm, clear days in the Masai Mara, with resident wildlife thriving across the green plains. Lions, elephants, and abundant plains game provide excellent sightings even though the migratory herds remain far to the south. February February offers lush scenery and abundant resident game. Newborn gazelles and impala attract predators, making for rewarding sightings. While the migration has not yet reached Kenya, the Mara remains vibrant and uncrowded. March March marks the end of the green season. Wildlife gathers along river systems as the grass begins to dry, and predator activity stays strong. The migration has not approached Kenya yet, but sightings remain consistent. April The long rains begin in April, renewing the landscape and scattering wildlife more widely. The Mara is peaceful and beautifully green while the migration continues moving north outside Kenya. May May brings dramatic skies and lush grass across the Mara. Resident wildlife is plentiful, and birding is excellent. The migration remains south, but the Mara offers rewarding, quieter safaris. June By June, the rains ease and wildlife concentrates along open plains and riverbanks. The first scouts of the migration begin edging closer to Kenya’s borders as fresh grazing draws them north.
August is the prime month for dramatic Mara River crossings as vast herds gather at the riverbanks. The reserve is alive with predators and migrating wildebeest spreading across the plains. Early booking
is essential. September
By September, most of the migration has settled in the Masai Mara, feeding on lush grass. Predator sightings are excellent, and this is one of the best months to stay in the reserve or surrounding conservancies. October October brings the final weeks of the migration in Kenya. As grazing thins, the herds begin drifting south. Predator action remains strong, and the Mara delivers superb game viewing throughout the month. November By November, the herds have left Kenya and move south with urgency. The Mara becomes green once again with the short rains, offering quieter safaris and excellent resident wildlife viewing. December In December, the Mara is lush and full of life. Resident animals thrive on the new grass, and predator sightings remain strong. Though the migration is far south, the Mara stays rewarding and beautiful.
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Practical Travel Tips
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Make the most of your safari experience with these practical insights on money, travel, and connectivity
Connectivity & Wi-Fi
Light Aircraft Flights
Connectivity & Wi-Fi are available at some lodges and camps, though bandwidth may be limited. Embrace the slower pace — a safari is a great chance to disconnect. If staying longer in Kenya, consider buying a local SIM card, easily found almost everywhere, with Safaricom or Airtel recommended.
Travel between safari regions in Kenya is often by light aircraft carrying between 8 and 15 passengers. Runways are usually gravel or grass, and departure times depend on multiple pick-up locations. Some flights have fixed departure times listed on your itinerary, but these may be adjusted up to 24 hours prior. Your travel concierge will keep you updated. Planes may stop at several airstrips en route to drop off or collect passengers.
Tips can be made in the local currency, US Dollar, Euro or Pound Sterling.Tipping guidelines vary from property to property, and the above is a general guideline. Insider Tip:
MoneyandPayments
The local currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES), though US Dollars (issued after 2009) are widely accepted in lodges and for tips. Exchange: Money can be exchanged at airports, banks, and forex bureaus in major towns. ATMs: Available in cities and larger towns, but not in safari areas. Credit cards: Accepted at most lodges and hotels, but transactions may include a surcharge and connections can sometimes be unreliable. It is advisable to carry some cash for tips, curios, and emergencies. It is also helpful to have small denominations for local shops and market stalls.
Baggage Guidelines
Each light aircraft carrier has its own regulations, but in general, baggage allowances are 15 kg per person. Routes to coastal destinations may permit up to 20 kg. We recommend pre-purchasing excess baggage to make packing and travel smoother..
Tipping Guidelines In Africa, tipping is customary but never obligatory. It is a way of showing appreciation for good service. Tipping is usually done at the end of your safari, and you may tip individual staff members or place tips in the communal gratuity box, typically found in the main mess area. Tips from the box are shared among all camp staff. Tips for guides should be handed directly to them at the end of your stay. General Guide:
20 KG * BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE
Ranger/ GuideTracker
Butler
Tracker
Spa Therapist
Waiter
General Staff
$35 - $45 per couple per day
$20 per day
$10 per treatment
10-15% of meal value. Some venues include tip automatically
$30 per day $15 per person
Maximum dimensions for ANY type of bag should not exceed 90cm x85cm x35cm (LxWxD)
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Packing Essentials & Guidelines Packing for safari is all about comfort, practicality, and preparation. Lodges provide many essentials, so you can travel light while still being ready for adventure. A small daypack is handy for carrying water, snacks, and your camera during excursions. Include sunscreen, insect repellent. If you plan to visit local villages, modest clothing shows respect for the community. A lightweight scarf or buff can shield your face from dust on open vehicles, and photographers should pack extra batteries and memory cards. Above all, choose breathable, comfortable fabrics that will keep you cool and dry throughout your journey. Light layers of clothing in neutral safari colors — green, khaki, and beige — are best. Dark colors such as navy or black can attract Tsetse flies and are best avoided, as are bright colors like yellow, red, and purple. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses will protect you from the strong African sun. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for walks and game drives. Don’t forget a lightweight rain jacket for unexpected showers, and bring a good pair of binoculars to make the most of every wildlife sighting.
Insider Tip:
Our favorite shop is The Safari Store. Check them out for great gear. Most camps provide insect repellent and communal binoculars.
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For Keen Photographers Kenya is a photographer’s dream – a land where light, landscape, and life align in perfect harmony. Dawn brings soft golden hues over the Mara, casting long shadows across acacia-dotted plains, while sunset bathes the savannah in deep amber and rose. Bring extra memory cards and batteries, and consider a portable charger. Power can be limited in camps. Roads and airstrips are often dusty, so use a dust cover or zip-lock bag to protect your camera.
Insider Tip:
Keep your camera close at hand. The best sightings often unfold in an instant. A telephoto lens is ideal for wildlife photography, but wide-angle shots shouldn’t be overlooked. Tanzania’s sweeping plains, vast skies, and dramatic sunsets are just as compelling as the wildlife itself. Experiment with angles and compositions to capture the true spirit of your journey. Patience is essential. Animal behavior is unpredictable, and the most striking moments often appear when you least expect them. Slow down, observe, and let the landscape reveal itself – your images will feel more authentic and tell richer stories.
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Final Preparations Checklist
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A simple guide to ensure every detail is in place before you embark on your unforget- table safari journey.
Documents ☐ Pass port (valid for 6+ months, 2 blank pages) ☐ Visa (or eVisa confirmation) ☐ Yellow Fever certificate (if required) ☐ Travel insurance documents ☐ Flight tickets & itinerary
Packing ☐ Light, n eutral safari clothing ☐ Warm layers for mornings/ evenings ☐ Comfortable walking shoes ☐ Hat, sunglasses, swimwear ☐ Camera, binoculars, chargers, adaptor ☐ Sunscreen, insect repellent, medications ☐ Soft-sided duffel (15–20 kg max for fl ights)
Money & Tipping ☐ USD c ash (issued after 2009) for tips and shops ☐ Small denominations for staff gratuities ☐ Credit card for lodge expenses
Health & Wellness ☐ Malaria prophylaxis (as advised by your doctor) ☐ Personal medications & small first aid kit ☐ Hand sanitizer & wet wipes
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Before you begin your adventure, take a breath and let Africa set the rhythm.
“If I have ever seen magic, it has been in Africa.” – John Hemingway Until we meet in Kenya — where the dawn breaks softly over endless plains, where adventure meets grace, and where every journey is not just seen, but deeply felt. See you out there! Until We Meet in Kenya
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