Kenya is the Africa you have always imagined. A destination of incredible contrasts, from the wild coastlines to the vast expanse of savannah grasslands holding incredible numbers of wildlife, inhabited by proud traditional people. This is a country of truly vivid experiences.
Kenya’s National Parks are a treasure trove of wildlife and nature, making them a top choice for both business and leisure travel. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a relaxing break, there is much to explore across the country.
Kenya is a country of natural beauty. From the coastal areas and mountains to the greener and softer landscapes further inland, the country has a variety of places to see and things to do.
The cultures in Kenya are varied and include the Maasai, Samburu and Kikuyu tribes. These people today strive to maintain their traditions in an ever-evolving world and fight daily for their survival in a realm where there is a constant battle between those who stay and those who wander.
Kenya is a vast and varied country, filled with rainbow-coloured landscapes, beautiful wildlife and warm people. To fully experience its captivating beauty, visit the 16th century Fort Jesus near the Old Town in Mombasa. Built in 1593 to protect the port of Mombasa from Portuguese attack, this UNESCO World Heritage Centre provides a wealth of insight into the battles once fought.
When you choose to book with us, you will experience a technicolour experience of travel to Kenya with world-class safari holidays, luxury beach holidays and cultural excursions.
If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience, Maasai Mara National Reserve is a must-see destination. Located in southwestern Kenya, the reserve is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including the famous “Big Five” (lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhino), as well as cheetahs, wildebeest, zebras, and giraffes. The reserve is also known for the awe-inspiring annual wildebeest migration, which is one of the world’s great natural spectacles. Visitors to Maasai Mara can enjoy a range of activities, including game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and cultural visits to Maasai villages. With its stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and unforgettable experiences, Maasai Mara National Reserve is the perfect destination for any nature lover or wildlife enthusiast.
Diani Beach is a breathtakingly beautiful destination located on the south coast of Kenya. With its pure white sand, crystal-clear waters, and swaying palm trees, it’s no wonder that Diani Beach is considered one of the most stunning beaches in the world. The beach stretches for miles and is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kite surfing, and windsurfing. In addition to the beach, visitors can also explore the nearby coral reefs, visit the nearby Shimba Hills National Reserve, or take a trip to the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park. With its picture-perfect scenery, excellent facilities, and friendly locals, Diani Beach is the perfect destination for a dream holiday in paradise.
Samburu National Reserve is a unique and beautiful destination located in northern Kenya. The reserve is known for its stunning landscapes, which include the Ewaso Ng’iro River and the rugged terrain of the Samburu tribe’s homeland. It is also home to a rich variety of wildlife. Visitors to the reserve can enjoy game drives, guided walks, and cultural visits to Samburu villages. With its unique wildlife and stunning scenery, Samburu National Reserve is a must-see destination for any nature lover or wildlife enthusiast visiting Kenya.
Laikipia Plateau is a hidden gem located in central Kenya. The plateau is characterised by its vast open plains, rolling hills, and rocky outcrops. It is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, and rare species such as the African wild dog and Grevy’s zebra. Visitors to the plateau can enjoy game drives, guided walks, horse riding, and camel safaris. The plateau is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with several indigenous communities such as the Maasai, Samburu, and Kikuyu living in the area. Visitors can learn about their unique way of life and experience their traditional customs and practices. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Laikipia Plateau is the perfect destination for an authentic African experience.
Despite Mount Kilimanjaro being located in Tanzania, the best place to see the mountain in its full glory is actually at Amboseli National Park in Kenya as you will have an unobstructed view of the mountain towering over thousands of animals scattered around the savannas. Amboseli National Park is probably one of the most scenic national parks out there. With all the animals spread out across the plain as a foreground, a pristine lake as a midground, and the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro as a background, you won’t find any more photogenic safari trip than this.
Nairobi has a great deal to offer visitors and tourists looking to experience the best of what the country has to offer. With three full days dedicated to exploring the city, there’s no shortage of exciting activities to fill your itinerary. Some of the must-see highlights for the first three days include visits to the Giraffe Centre, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage, and the Karen Blixen Museum. Spend your evenings dining under the stars and enjoying the delicious cuisine of Nairobi’s top restaurants. From the bustling city streets to the scenic landscapes and abundant wildlife, Nairobi has something to offer every traveller and adventurer seeking an unforgettable experience.
Kenya is rich in biodiversity, boasting vast savannas teeming with iconic wildlife like the Big Five, diverse plant species, and unique ecosystems ranging from the Great Rift Valley to coastal mangroves and highland forests.
Description: Africa’s largest land mammal, the African Elephant, is known for its large ears, long trunk, and tusks. They are highly intelligent and social creatures.
Habitat: Found throughout Kenya, including Amboseli National Park, Tsavo National Park, and Maasai Mara, they prefer savannas, woodlands, and forests.
Interesting Fact: Amboseli is famous for its large elephant herds, with Mount Kilimanjaro providing a stunning backdrop. Kenya’s elephants are being protected from poaching and there are large efforts being made to preserve their populations.
Description: Famous for their vibrant pink feathers and long, slender necks, flamingos are often seen standing on one leg. They have unique, curved bills adapted for filtering food from water.
Habitat: Lake Nakuru is a key location in Kenya where greater and lesser flamingos gather in large flocks. They prefer alkaline lakes and shallow waters.
Interesting Fact: Lake Nakuru is one of the best places in the world to witness the phenomenon of thousands of flamingos flocking together. They get their pink color from the carotenoid-rich algae they consume.
Description: The cheetah is a slender, fast, and graceful predator known for its exceptional speed. With a long, lean body, a small head, and distinctive black tear marks on its face, the cheetah is built for speed. Its short, golden coat with black spots helps it blend into the grasslands, while its large nostrils and long tail assist in maneuvering at high speeds during a chase.
Habitat: Cheetahs are typically found in open grasslands, savannas, and semi-arid regions. In Kenya, the Masai Mara and Tsavo are prime habitats, where they enjoy wide, open spaces perfect for sprinting. They can also be found in parts of the Laikipia Plateau and the Serengeti. Unlike lions and leopards, cheetahs prefer areas with less dense vegetation to aid in spotting prey from a distance.
Interesting Fact: Cheetahs are the fastest land animals on Earth, capable of reaching speeds up to 60-70 mph (97-113 km/h) in short bursts covering 200–300 meters. Unlike lions, they hunt alone or in small family groups and rely on their speed rather than strength to catch prey, often targeting gazelles or impalas.
Description: The zebra is a herbivorous mammal known for its distinctive black-and-white striped coat. Each zebra’s stripe pattern is unique, much like human fingerprints. Zebras have strong, muscular bodies, long manes, and tufted tails. They are known for their social behavior, often living in herds, and they communicate through a variety of vocalizations and body language.
Habitat: Zebras are found in grasslands, savannas, and woodlands throughout Kenya. They thrive in areas with access to open plains and water sources. The Masai Mara and Tsavo National Parks are excellent places to see zebras in large herds, often mingling with wildebeest and gazelles.
Interesting Fact: Zebras are not only known for their striking appearance but also their social structure. They live in harems led by a dominant stallion, with females and their foals. The stripes on a zebra may serve multiple purposes: camouflage in tall grasses, social identification within herds, and protection against biting insects like tsetse flies.
Description: The Sausage Tree is known for its large, sausage-shaped fruits that dangle from long stems, which is how it gets its name. The tree has a broad, spreading canopy with large, dark green leaves and produces maroon or purple flowers that bloom in the evening. The fruits themselves can grow up to 60cm (2 feet) long and weigh up to 10kg (22 pounds). These fruits, while not edible in their raw state due to their toxicity, are traditionally used in African medicine for their healing properties.
Habitat: The Sausage Tree can be found in the Masai Mara as well as other areas in Kenya, particularly in areas near rivers and watercourses. It thrives in well-drained soils and is commonly found along savanna or woodland areas, often close to water sources like the Mara River.
Interesting Fact: The Sausage Tree is an iconic feature of many African savannas, including the Masai Mara, and it plays a significant role in local wildlife. Its fruits are consumed by various animals, including baboons, elephants, and giraffes, though they are not safe for human consumption unless processed. The tree is also famous for its traditional medicinal uses; parts of the tree are used to treat skin diseases, malaria, and fevers. The Sausage Tree is often associated with African folklore and is sometimes believed to have mystical powers.
The post-Christmas lull presents a golden opportunity for travelers, with fewer crowds, enticing special offers, and reliably warm, dry days that provide ideal conditions for wildlife observation. The landscape boasts a lush greenery following the brief December rains. Along the coast, the water clarity is excellent for snorkeling and diving.
Expect warm and dry weather, with temperatures hovering around 28°C/82°F in the Maasai Mara and even hotter in the northern regions. While scattered showers may occur, they won’t dampen your enjoyment significantly.
Although the Great Migration has moved further south into Tanzania, resident wildebeest and antelope species may be calving. The dry-ish conditions tend to concentrate wildlife around waterholes, though this could vary depending on the intensity of the short rains. In the north, such as Samburu, where conditions are driest, you may spot elephants digging in dry riverbeds.
Enjoy hot, sunny days along the coast, with crystal-clear waters around coral reefs. Keep an eye out for possible whale shark sightings.
Migrant birds have arrived, making the Rift Valley a paradise for bird enthusiasts with its bustling bird activity.
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As the long dry season sets in, temperatures soar, vegetation begins to thin out, and wildlife gathers around permanent water sources. Along the coast, temperatures reach their peak, offering excellent water clarity for snorkeling and diving adventures.
Expect the hottest temperatures of the year, with February typically being the driest month.
The calving season continues, providing ample photographic opportunities and captivating predator/prey interactions. With vegetation thinning out, wildlife sightings become more frequent.
Coastal temperatures peak during this time, providing ideal conditions for fishing, and boasting excellent water clarity.
Migrant birds flock to the area in large numbers, drawn to the abundant water sources. This influx makes bird sightings and photography opportunities more reliable than ever.
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As temperatures steadily increase, accompanied by rising humidity, expect the traditional onset of heavy showers and storms towards the end of the month, heralding the arrival of the long rains. Showers typically occur in the afternoon. Prices begin to decrease, alongside a decline in visitor numbers, although there may be a slight uptick in demand around Easter.
Throughout the month, temperatures and humidity gradually rise until the arrival of rains, usually in the latter half of March.
Savannah grasslands are kept short by grazing herds.
Early in the month, the sparse vegetation and short, grazed grasslands facilitate easier wildlife sightings, with cheetahs thriving in these conditions. Increased pressure on water sources leads to wildlife congregating, resulting in dynamic inter-species interactions. Towards the end of the month, wildlife may disperse as rains become more frequent.
Expect excellent water clarity until the arrival of rains, which can cause increased cloudiness in the water column and more turbulent conditions.
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The arrival of the long rains brings lower temperatures and windy conditions. Tracks and unpaved roads may become impassable quagmires. However, this season also offers bargains for ‘green season’ travelers, and luck can play a role in whether it pays off – conditions may well be favorable! Amidst the showers, sunlight can burst through the dark clouds, creating stunning photographic opportunities.
Expect wet, stormy, and muddy conditions. The coast tends to be hot and wet.
As the rains arrive, the bush transforms into lush greenery almost overnight, bringing relief to many species.
Species such as buffalo and zebra tend to give birth later in the season, leading to an abundance of young animals and excellent photographic opportunities. However, wildlife may be more dispersed and challenging to spot as vegetation thickens.
Migrants typically head north during this time. Flamingos thrive in the rainy season when food is abundant.
With luck, you may experience favorable weather and enjoy the exclusivity of having fewer tourists around, making for a more intimate safari experience at a reduced price.
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Many camps close their doors as roads and tracks become impassable and visitor numbers dwindle. However, as rain clouds roll through, occasional bursts of sunshine illuminate the landscape. The resulting photos of vibrant green vegetation set against dark skies, with wildlife bathed in beautiful light, are truly breathtaking.
Rainfall is frequent, particularly along the coast where monsoon weather patterns prevail.
Lush and dense greenery dominates the landscape.
Wildlife is spread out and can be challenging to spot amidst the thick foliage. A knowledgeable guide is invaluable in navigating the terrain. During this time, grazers like wildebeest and impala engage in rutting behavior as part of their breeding cycle.
An ideal opportunity to observe flamingos in their natural habitat.
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Many camps close during periods when roads and tracks become impassable and visitor numbers decline. However, amidst passing rain clouds, there are moments of sunshine, illuminating vivid green vegetation against dark skies. The resulting photos capture stunning scenes of wildlife bathed in beautiful light.
Rainfall is frequent, especially along the coast where monsoon weather patterns prevail.
Lush and dense.
Wildlife tends to be scattered and harder to spot amidst the thick vegetation, making the guidance of a skilled ranger invaluable. During this time, grazers such as wildebeest and impala engage in rutting behaviors.
An optimal period for spotting flamingos.
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As the first herds of the migration arrive in the Maasai Mara, peak season ensues, bringing with it increased pricing and visitor numbers. Winter has technically set in, particularly noticeable in destinations at higher elevations like Nairobi and the highlands, where temperatures average 15-20°C during the day. Lower lying areas and the coast offer pleasant temperatures in the mid-20s, although choppy seas may affect diving/snorkeling excursions.
Conditions are generally very comfortable for safaris, with dry and cool weather prevailing, albeit occasionally cloudy skies. While there’s a possibility of occasional showers, they’re not likely. Nighttime temperatures may drop to around 5°C in some areas.
The earliest arrivals of the great migration begin to make their way into the Maasai Mara, setting the stage for thrilling predator action!
Keep an eye out for flamingos, which are often spotted at Lake Naivasha.
Don’t forget to pack warm layers for early and late game drives.
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Peak migration time coincides with European school holidays, resulting in a surge in visitor numbers. Some destinations may feel crowded, especially in National Parks, but private conservancies offer greater exclusivity. Wildlife sightings are abundant! While park congestion may impact the experience, a skilled guide will employ effective crowd avoidance tactics. Beyond the migration, Laikipia and the northern Samburu areas of Kenya offer delightful experiences during this period.
Safari areas boast mild and dry conditions, perfect for wildlife observation, although mornings and evenings can be chilly. Layering is essential, particularly at higher altitudes where hats and gloves are recommended. Nairobi often experiences overcast skies and dreary weather reminiscent of British climates.
Game viewing reaches its pinnacle with the Great Migration in the Masai Mara. Witness thrilling predator-prey interactions and heart-stopping drama unfold at the Mara and Talek rivers as countless wildebeest and zebra navigate crocodile-infested waters during their crossing.
Mosquito presence is minimal.
Seek guidance from a reputable tour operator/DMC for crowd-avoidance strategies. A knowledgeable guide enhances the experience immensely.
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While the crowds begin to dwindle, particularly towards the end of the month, the wildlife viewing remains excellent. The movement of the migration varies from year to year, but the herds are typically still found in the Mara in September, frequently traversing the Mara River. September remains a peak season, and prices reflect this.
With clear skies and rising temperatures that still maintain a pleasant atmosphere, this period offers an ideal time to visit.
The game viewing experience continues to be exceptional, with large herds remaining present in the Mara and frequently crossing back and forth across the Mara River, alongside the diverse resident wildlife.
The birdlife in Kenya flourishes from September to April, coinciding with the presence of migratory birds from Europe and northern Africa.
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Depending on environmental conditions, herds are beginning to depart from the Masai Mara, resulting in fewer sightings of wildebeest and zebras. However, there’s still an abundance of resident wildlife to enjoy. With visitor numbers decreasing, October presents an ideal opportunity for travel. Additionally, conditions along the coast are pleasant, making it an excellent time for a bush/beach combination.
Expect generally warm and dry weather, with midday temperatures reaching the high 20s.
Although migratory herds are thinning in the Mara, the overall wildlife experience remains excellent. High concentrations of resident wildlife across Kenya’s safari areas ensure a rewarding safari experience beyond the migration. Amboseli’s iconic elephants are drawn to the swamps as temperatures rise. Along the coast, turtle hatchlings begin to emerge.
Migratory species are still present, and many resident bird species are nesting, displaying their breeding plumage.
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The short rains typically arrive and last until mid-December. While a few camps in the northern regions (e.g., Laikipia) may close, most remain open with attractive pricing. Despite potentially heavy skies, game viewing remains excellent as the rain usually isn’t significant enough to disrupt activities.
Expect warm and overcast conditions with occasional heavy showers and localized flooding, although this is typically not severe. Nairobi and the central highlands experience hot days, cool nights, and high rainfall. On the coast, conditions are hot and wet with little relief at night.
As Wildebeest migrate south to their Serengeti calving grounds, ample resident wildlife in the Mara ensures an excellent safari experience year-round. Visitors can still encounter lion, cheetah, leopard, and plenty of plains game.
Witness the migration of whale sharks along the Kenyan coast between November and February.
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The rains typically subside by mid-month. Visitors flock to the coast for the Christmas period, leading to a surge in activity, which continues until mid-January. However, it’s important to note that occasional rainfall may persist until late in the month, so a dry Christmas cannot be guaranteed. The landscape bursts into lush greenery, providing excellent birding opportunities.
Rain usually tapers off by mid-month, giving way to clear, sunny skies characterized by bright blue hues. While temperatures tend to be highest along the coast, coastal breezes help keep any humidity in check.
After the rains, the landscape comes alive with vibrant greenery, creating a picturesque setting.
Wildlife viewing remains exceptional, with abundant bird populations.
Migratory bird species can still be spotted in various locations, particularly around the lakes of Nakuru, Naivasha, and Bogoria.
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