What's the best time for the Great Migration?

July-October in Masai Mara when wildebeest cross from Serengeti. August-September is peak river crossing season, but also most crowded and expensive. June and November offer good wildlife with fewer tourists.

How much should I tip the guide and driver?

$10-15 per person per day for your guide/driver, $5-10 per day for camp staff total. Tip in US dollars or Kenyan shillings, not other currencies. Give tips directly to individuals, not to the company.

Can I do a safari without a tour group?

Self-driving is possible but not recommended for first-timers. Roads are rough, animals can be dangerous, and you'll miss wildlife without an experienced guide. Kenyan guides know animal behavior and can find the Big Five that tourists would never spot.

What's the difference between a game drive and a walking safari?

Game drives are vehicle-based (most common), walking safaris are on foot with armed ranger (limited locations). Balloon safaris offer aerial views ($400-500). Night drives show different animals but aren't allowed in national parks, only private conservancies.

How to Plan a Safari in Kenya

Book your safari 3-6 months ahead through a reputable local operator, budget $200-500 per person per day, and plan for 5-7 days minimum. The Masai Mara and Amboseli are best for first-timers, with July-October being peak season for the Great Migration.

Choose your parks and timing. Pick 2-3 parks maximum for a week-long trip. Masai Mara (July-October for migration), Amboseli (year-round for Kilimanjaro views), Tsavo East/West (fewer crowds), or Samburu (unique species). Don't try to see everything—you'll spend more time driving than watching animals.
Book through a Kenyan tour operator. Use operators based in Nairobi like Gamewatchers Safaris, Basecamp Explorer, or Let's Go Travel. They handle permits, know the guides, and cost 30-40% less than booking through international companies. Get everything in writing including vehicle type, accommodation level, and meal inclusions.
Pick your accommodation level. Budget camping: $150-200/day per person. Mid-range lodges: $300-400/day. Luxury camps: $500-800/day. All-inclusive means meals, game drives, and park fees. Camping means shared facilities but authentic bush experience.
Arrange flights and connections. Fly into Nairobi (NBO). Most operators include airport pickup. For Masai Mara, you can drive (5 hours) or take a small plane ($200-300 each way). Driving lets you see countryside but planes save time and offer aerial views.
Get vaccinations and prep documents. Yellow fever vaccination required if coming from endemic areas. Malaria prophylaxis recommended year-round. Bring vaccination certificate, passport valid 6+ months, and printed safari vouchers. Download offline maps—cell service is spotty.
Pack for game drives. Neutral colors only (no white, blue, or black). Mornings and evenings are cold (50-60°F), midday is hot (80°F+). Bring layers, not just shorts and t-shirts. Most vehicles are open-top Land Cruisers with roof hatches.

What's the best time for the Great Migration?: July-October in Masai Mara when wildebeest cross from Serengeti. August-September is peak river crossing season, but also most crowded and expensive. June and November offer good wildlife with fewer tourists.
How much should I tip the guide and driver?: $10-15 per person per day for your guide/driver, $5-10 per day for camp staff total. Tip in US dollars or Kenyan shillings, not other currencies. Give tips directly to individuals, not to the company.
Can I do a safari without a tour group?: Self-driving is possible but not recommended for first-timers. Roads are rough, animals can be dangerous, and you'll miss wildlife without an experienced guide. Kenyan guides know animal behavior and can find the Big Five that tourists would never spot.
What's the difference between a game drive and a walking safari?: Game drives are vehicle-based (most common), walking safaris are on foot with armed ranger (limited locations). Balloon safaris offer aerial views ($400-500). Night drives show different animals but aren't allowed in national parks, only private conservancies.