How to plan a 2-week Kenya safari itinerary
To see the best of Kenya, focus on three primary ecosystems: Amboseli, Laikipia, and the Masai Mara. Spend 14 days moving between these hubs to minimize travel fatigue while maximizing wildlife sightings.
- Select your safari style. Decide between a fly-in safari (using small bush planes) or a land-based safari (hiring a 4x4 Land Cruiser with a private guide). Fly-in is faster but costs $500-$800 more per person; road transfers are cheaper but involve 6-8 hours of bumpy travel between parks.
- Secure your park permits and internal flights. Book your Masai Mara Conservancies and park entry fees at least 6 months in advance. If flying between parks, use Safarilink or AirKenya; flights from Wilson Airport (NBO) are significantly more efficient than using Jomo Kenyatta International.
- Prioritize wildlife diversity. Structure your route to see elephants in Amboseli, rhinos in the Laikipia Plateau/Ol Pejeta, and the big cats in the Masai Mara. Do not try to visit more than three major parks in 14 days, or you will spend your entire vacation in a vehicle.
- Is it safe to drink the water?
- No. Always drink bottled or filtered water provided at your camp.
- Should I tip my safari guide?
- Yes. A standard tip is $15-$20 per day for the guide, paid at the end of the trip.
- Are there mosquitoes?
- Yes. Kenya is a malaria zone. Bring DEET-based repellent and consult your doctor about antimalarial prophylaxis.