A Kenyan safari is a dream for many, promising incredible wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and a chance to experience one of the most biodiverse countries in Africa. Whether you are an East African resident or a non-resident visitor, planning the perfect safari requires careful consideration of factors like timing, budget, and the experience you’re after.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about booking a safari in Kenya, including pricing, how to book with tour operators like Safari Travel Plus, the best times to visit, and even what to pack. Let’s get started!
1. Types of Safaris in Kenya
Kenya offers a range of safari options to suit different preferences, budgets, and schedules. Here are the most common types of safaris:
1.1 Single-Park Safaris
For those with limited time or a desire to focus on a particular park’s wildlife and scenery, a single-park safari is ideal. The most popular choices include:
- Maasai Mara: Famous for the Great Migration, big cats, and vast savannahs.
- Amboseli National Park: Known for its large elephant herds and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Lake Nakuru National Park: Ideal for bird lovers, especially those interested in flamingos, and home to rhinos.
1.2 Combination Park Safaris
For a more comprehensive Kenyan experience, combination park safaris allow you to explore multiple parks. This provides a richer wildlife experience and a chance to see various landscapes. Popular combinations include:
- Maasai Mara and Amboseli: Enjoy the best of both worlds with wildlife diversity and iconic landscapes.
- Lake Nakuru and Maasai Mara: A great way to combine birdwatching with classic African safari experiences.
- Samburu and Maasai Mara: Samburu offers a more arid, less-visited park, while Maasai Mara delivers the quintessential Kenyan safari experience.
1.3 Safari and Beach Combination
A safari and beach combination allows you to experience both Kenya’s rich wildlife and its beautiful coastline. This is particularly popular for honeymooners or those looking for a relaxing break after an adventurous safari. Mombasa, Diani Beach, and Lamu are all fantastic beach destinations to combine with a Kenyan safari.
1.4 Day Trips
For those short on time, Kenya offers excellent day-trip options:
- Amboseli Day Trip: A quick journey to see elephants and Kilimanjaro’s majestic backdrop.
- Lake Nakuru Day Trip: Perfect for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts who want a shorter safari experience.
2. Booking Safaris in Kenya with a Tour Operator
Booking a safari through a tour operator like Safari Travel Plus simplifies the process, ensuring you make the most of your time in Kenya. Here are some advantages and what you can expect when booking through us.
2.1 Why Choose Safari Travel Plus
We are based in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital and gateway to most safari destinations. This allows us to arrange last-minute safaris, especially during the low season. However, booking in advance is essential for the high season when accommodation options fill up fast.
Safari Travel Plus offers:
- Tailor-made safaris to fit your budget, preferences, and available time.
- Expert itineraries crafted by our experienced safari specialists.
- Flexible options, including private vehicle safaris or group-joining safaris.
- Short-notice bookings in low seasons but the recommendation to book in advance for high seasons.
- 24/7 support from our knowledgeable, friendly team.
2.2 Private Vehicle Safaris vs Group Joining Safaris
- Private Vehicle Safaris: You’ll have an entire 4×4 Land Cruiser (also called a safari jeep) to yourself. This allows for more flexibility in your schedule, privacy, and a personal experience with your guide.
- Group Joining Safaris: This is an option for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind sharing a vehicle with others. It’s a cost-effective way to experience a safari, though flexibility might be limited as you’re working with a group schedule.
Advantages of Private Vehicle Safaris:
- More personalized experience.
- Flexibility in itinerary.
- Ideal for families or small groups of friends.
Advantages of Group Joining Safaris:
- Lower cost.
- Meet and share experiences with like-minded travelers.
2.3 Value Proposition
With Safari Travel Plus, we aim to provide great value for your money, offering:
- Flexible payment options and budget considerations.
- Expert local knowledge, ensuring you visit the best parks at the right times.
- Fully customizable
safaris to suit your preferences, whether you’re looking for a luxury experience or a more affordable adventure.
- Access to well-maintained 4×4 Land Cruisers, which provide a comfortable and safe ride even on rough terrains. These vehicles are fully equipped for safaris, with pop-up roofs for better wildlife viewing.
- Highly experienced and friendly driver-guides, who not only ensure your safety but also enhance your experience with their knowledge of wildlife and the environment.
3. Resident and Non-Resident Rates
When planning your safari in Kenya, understanding the pricing structure is crucial. Different rates apply depending on whether you’re an East African resident or a non-resident. Prices are divided into two main categories: accommodation rates and park entry fees.
3.1 Accommodation Rates
Kenya has a wide range of accommodations, from budget camps to luxury lodges, with prices that vary depending on the location, season, and residency status.
- East African Residents (EAC citizens): Generally benefit from lower accommodation rates compared to non-residents. These discounts are offered to citizens of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi. Always carry your residence or identification documents to access these rates.
- Non-Residents: Pay higher rates, especially in luxury lodges or exclusive camps.
3.2 Park Entry Fees
Kenya’s national parks and reserves charge entry fees that are crucial for maintaining these natural spaces. Again, there are different fees for East African residents and non-residents.
- Maasai Mara National Reserve:
- East African Residents: KES 1,000–2,000 per adult per day.
- Non-Residents: USD 200 per adult per day.
- Amboseli National Park:
- East African Residents: KES 800–1,500 per adult per day.
- Non-Residents: USD 70 per adult per day.
- Lake Nakuru National Park:
- East African Residents: KES 800–1,500 per adult per day.
- Non-Residents: USD 60 per adult per day.
These rates are subject to change, so it’s always good to confirm the exact rates with your tour operator before booking.
4. Best Time to Go on Safari in Kenya
Kenya offers fantastic safari experiences year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to see and your tolerance for weather conditions.
4.1 High Season (July to October)
This is the most popular time for safaris, especially because of the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara, when millions of wildebeest and zebras cross from Tanzania’s Serengeti into Kenya. The dry season also makes wildlife easier to spot as animals gather around water sources.
- Advantages:
- Prime wildlife viewing, especially the migration.
- Dry conditions make game drives more pleasant.
- Disadvantages:
- Higher prices for accommodation and park entry.
- Parks, especially Maasai Mara, can be crowded.
4.2 Low Season (April to June)
This is Kenya’s rainy season, and while it might seem less appealing, there are some significant benefits to going on safari during this period.
- Advantages:
- Lower prices for accommodation and park entry.
- Fewer tourists, so you’ll have a more exclusive experience.
- The landscapes are lush and green, making it a great time for photography.
- Disadvantages:
- Rain can make game drives more challenging, as roads can become muddy.
- Some lodges and camps may close during the low season.
- Wildlife can be harder to spot due to the dense vegetation.
4.3 Shoulder Season (November to March)
This is a great time to visit Kenya as it offers a balance between good weather and fewer crowds.
- Advantages:
- Good wildlife viewing as animals remain close to water sources.
- Less crowded parks compared to the high season.
- Disadvantages:
- Prices are still higher compared to the low season.
5. What to Pack and What to Wear on Safari
Packing for a safari is all about being practical and prepared for varied conditions. The key is to pack light, but make sure you have everything you need for a comfortable and safe experience.
5.1 What to Pack
- Clothing: Light, breathable fabrics like cotton are ideal for warm days, but bring layers for early mornings and evenings, which can be cooler. Neutral colors like beige, khaki, and olive are best as they blend with the environment and won’t attract unwanted attention from animals.
- Footwear: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must, especially for any walking safaris. A pair of sandals for downtime at the lodge is also useful.
- Hat and Sunglasses: To protect yourself from the intense African sun.
- Sunblock and Lip Balm: Even on cloudy days, the sun can be harsh, so protect your skin.
- Insect Repellent: Malaria is present in some parts of Kenya, so insect repellent is crucial.
- Binoculars and Camera: Don’t miss out on those long-range wildlife sightings—bring a good pair of binoculars and a camera with a decent zoom lens.
5.2 What to Wear
During the day, temperatures can get quite high, so opt for light, breathable clothing in natural, muted colors. At night or during early morning game drives, temperatures drop, so pack a warm jacket or fleece.
- Daytime: T-shirts, shorts, or lightweight trousers.
- Evening/early morning: Warm jacket or fleece, long-sleeved shirts, and trousers to protect against mosquitoes.
- Footwear: Comfortable hiking shoes for game walks and lighter shoes or sandals for relaxing at camp.
6. Our Safari Vehicles and Guides
At Safari Travel Plus, we believe the right vehicle and guide can make or break your safari experience.
6.1 4×4 Land Cruiser Safari Vehicles
We use 4×4 Land Cruisers for our safaris, also known as safari jeeps. These vehicles are perfectly suited for Kenya’s often rugged and uneven terrains. Here’s why they are the preferred choice:
- Durability: Able to navigate the rough, unpaved roads in national parks.
- Comfort: Spacious interiors with ample legroom.
- Pop-Up Roof: For unobstructed views during game drives.
- Safety: Equipped with safety features to handle off-road conditions.
6.2 Our Drivers and Guides
Our drivers are not only experienced but are also knowledgeable about Kenya’s wildlife, flora, and fauna. Their expertise can transform a good safari into an exceptional one. Here’s what you can expect:
- Professionalism: Punctual, courteous, and committed to ensuring you have the best experience.
- Wildlife Expertise: They know the best spots to see particular animals and can identify various species.
- Personalized Experience: Whether it’s a private safari or a group tour, they tailor the experience based on your interests.
7. Advantages of Booking with Safari Travel Plus
At Safari Travel Plus, we strive to provide value and quality service to ensure your Kenyan safari is unforgettable. Here are some of the benefits of booking with us:
- Tailor-Made Safaris: Whether you want a luxury safari, budget-friendly experience, or something in between, we can design a safari that fits your needs.
- Expertise: With years of experience in the industry, we know how to create the perfect itinerary, select the best accommodations, and ensure you experience Kenya’s wildlife at its best.
- Flexibility: We offer both last-minute and advance bookings, depending on your needs. Our team is always ready to help you plan a trip that fits your schedule.
- Safety and Comfort: Our 4×4 safari vehicles are well-maintained and fully equipped for a comfortable ride, while our guides ensure you’re safe throughout the trip.
- Personalized Attention: From the time you land in Nairobi to the moment you depart, our team is on hand to take care of all the details.
Booking a safari in Kenya is an exciting adventure, and with Safari Travel Plus, the process is easy and stress-free. Whether you’re planning a last-minute trip or a carefully thought-out journey, we offer everything you need to create the perfect safari experience. With various options from single-park to combination safaris, private vehicle safaris, or group-joining safaris, we cater to all types of travelers and budgets. Our expert guides, well-equipped safari vehicles, and custom itineraries ensure that you get the most out of your time in Kenya.
So, whether you’re an East African resident looking for an affordable getaway or a non-resident eager for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Safari Travel Plus can make your dream safari a reality. Let us handle the details while you focus on enjoying Kenya’s stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife.
