Kenya Safari Destination – Masai Mara & Great Migration

Masai Mara – Migration & Big Cats

The Masai Mara National Reserve is Kenya's most famous safari destination, renowned for hosting the Great Migration from July to October. During this period, over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara River, creating one of nature's most dramatic spectacles. The reserve offers exceptional Big Five viewing year-round, with high densities of lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The best months for migration viewing are July and August, when river crossings are most frequent. The reserve is also home to the Maasai people, offering cultural experiences alongside wildlife viewing. Conservancies surrounding the reserve provide exclusive experiences with fewer vehicles, night drives, and walking safaris.

Amboseli – Elephants & Kilimanjaro Views

Amboseli National Park is famous for its large elephant herds and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak. The park's open plains and swamps create perfect conditions for elephant viewing, with herds often numbering over 100 individuals. The best time for clear Kilimanjaro views is during the dry seasons (June-October and December-March), particularly in the early morning and late afternoon. Amboseli is also excellent for birdwatching, with over 400 bird species recorded. The park's compact size makes it ideal for shorter stays, and it's easily combined with other southern circuit parks. Photography opportunities are exceptional, with elephants and Kilimanjaro creating iconic African safari images.

Tsavo – Big Landscapes & Fewer Crowds

Tsavo National Park, split into East and West, is one of Kenya's largest protected areas, covering over 20,000 square kilometres. Tsavo East features vast open plains, the Galana River, and the famous "red elephants" that dust-bathe in the red soil. Tsavo West offers more varied terrain with Mzima Springs, volcanic features, and rhino sanctuaries. Both parks provide a more remote safari experience with fewer visitors than the Masai Mara, making them ideal for travellers seeking wilderness and solitude. Wildlife includes large elephant herds, lions, leopards, and diverse birdlife. The parks are best visited during the dry seasons when animals congregate around water sources, improving viewing opportunities.

Lake Nakuru / Rift Valley – Rhinos & Lakes

Lake Nakuru National Park, located in the Great Rift Valley, is a birdwatcher's paradise and one of Kenya's most important rhino sanctuaries. The park's alkaline lake attracts millions of flamingos, creating spectacular pink shorelines, though flamingo numbers vary with water levels. Lake Nakuru is home to both black and white rhinos, with excellent viewing opportunities. The park also supports populations of lions, leopards, buffalo, and diverse antelope species. The Rift Valley location provides stunning scenery, and the park's compact size makes it ideal for day visits or shorter stays. Best visited year-round, though bird numbers peak during the wet season when the lake is fuller.

Samburu / Laikipia – Unique Species & Culture

Northern Kenya's Samburu National Reserve and the Laikipia Plateau offer unique safari experiences with species not found in southern parks. The "Samburu Special Five" include Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, gerenuk, and Somali ostrich. These northern specialists have adapted to the semi-arid environment and provide fascinating viewing opportunities. Samburu also offers cultural experiences with the Samburu people, who share linguistic and cultural ties with the Maasai. The region is less visited than southern parks, providing exclusive experiences and excellent wildlife viewing. The best time to visit is during the dry seasons (June-October and December-March) when animals congregate along the Ewaso Ng'iro River.

July–October: Migration Peak & Dry Season

This is Kenya's peak safari season, coinciding with the Great Migration in the Masai Mara. July and August see the most dramatic river crossings, while September and October offer excellent wildlife viewing with slightly fewer crowds. Weather is dry and sunny, with clear skies ideal for photography. This is the best time for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts, though prices are highest and accommodation books early.

Best for: Great Migration viewing, photographers, optimal wildlife viewing, clear skies

December–March: Dry Season & Calving

The short dry season offers excellent wildlife viewing with good visibility and pleasant temperatures. December to February sees the calving season in the Masai Mara, with thousands of wildebeest calves born, attracting predators. This period is ideal for families and those wanting to escape the British winter. Wildlife viewing is excellent across all parks, with animals congregating around water sources.

Best for: Families, calving season, good weather, fewer crowds than peak season

April–June: Green Season & Value

The long rains bring lush green landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower prices. While some roads may be challenging and wildlife is more dispersed, this season offers excellent value and beautiful scenery. Birdlife is abundant, and the landscapes are at their most photogenic. Some lodges close during the wettest months (April-May), so check availability.

Best for: Value travellers, photographers (green landscapes), birdwatchers, fewer crowds

November: Short Rains Transition

November marks the transition between dry and wet seasons, with short afternoon rains that rarely disrupt safari activities. Wildlife viewing remains good, and the landscape begins to green. This is a good compromise period, offering decent wildlife viewing with fewer crowds and moderate prices. Some areas may experience brief heavy showers, but mornings are typically clear.

Best for: Balanced experience, moderate prices, good wildlife viewing

Visa & Entry Requirements

UK passport holders require a visa to enter Kenya. The most convenient option is the e-visa, obtainable online before travel through the official Kenya e-visa portal. E-visas are typically processed within 2-3 business days. Visas on arrival are also available, though the e-visa is recommended to avoid airport queues. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date and has at least two blank pages.

Vaccinations & Health

Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory for entry into Kenya, and you must carry your Yellow Fever certificate. Consult your GP or a travel health clinic 6-8 weeks before departure for the latest health advice. Recommended vaccinations may include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP). Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended for all safari areas, with several anti-malarial medication options available. Consult your healthcare provider to choose the most suitable option.

Malaria Precautions

Malaria is present in Kenya's safari areas, so taking anti-malarial medication is essential. In addition to medication, use insect repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and trousers in the evenings, and sleep under mosquito nets (provided at most lodges). The risk is generally lower during the dry season, but precautions should be taken year-round.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is essential for any Kenya safari. Ensure your policy covers medical expenses, emergency evacuation (important for remote safari areas), trip cancellation, and loss of belongings. Check that your policy covers adventure activities and verify coverage limits, particularly for medical evacuation, which can be expensive from remote locations.

Safari Safety

Safari activities are generally very safe when following your guide's instructions. Always stay in your vehicle during game drives unless your guide explicitly permits you to exit. Listen carefully to safety briefings, particularly regarding wildlife encounters. Lodges and camps have security measures in place, and guides are highly trained in wildlife behaviour and safety protocols.

Safari Lodges

Safari lodges are permanent structures, typically built with stone, wood, or thatch, offering comfortable accommodation with en-suite facilities. Lodges range from mid-range to ultra-luxury, with amenities like swimming pools, restaurants, bars, and sometimes spas. They provide a comfortable base for safari activities, with reliable electricity, hot water, and Wi-Fi. Lodges are ideal for travellers seeking comfort and convenience, and are often family-friendly with family rooms or suites.

Tented Camps

Tented camps offer an authentic safari experience while maintaining comfort. Tents are typically spacious with proper beds, en-suite bathrooms (often with flush toilets and hot showers), and furniture. Luxury tented camps provide the romance of camping with the amenities of a lodge. The sounds of the bush at night and the feeling of being closer to nature make tented camps popular with safari enthusiasts. They range from classic canvas tents to more permanent structures with canvas walls.

Conservancy Camps

Camps located in community conservancies often offer exclusive experiences not available in national parks. These may include night drives, walking safaris, off-road driving, and fewer vehicles at sightings. Conservancy camps support community conservation initiatives and provide direct benefits to local communities. They often combine the best of both lodges and tented camps, with comfortable accommodation and exclusive wildlife experiences.

What "Luxury" Means in Safari Context

Luxury in a safari context doesn't necessarily mean opulent decor, but rather exceptional service, prime locations, exclusive experiences, and attention to detail. Luxury camps and lodges typically offer smaller guest numbers, highly trained guides, excellent food, and unique experiences like private game drives or bush dining. The focus is on providing an authentic, comfortable, and memorable safari experience rather than five-star hotel amenities.

Family-Friendly Accommodation

Many lodges and camps offer family-friendly accommodation with family rooms, suites, or interconnected tents. Some properties have age restrictions for children on certain activities, while others are specifically designed for families with children's programs, family game drives, and flexible meal times. When travelling with children, consider properties that welcome families and offer appropriate activities and safety measures.