Planning Your First Kenya Safari
To plan your first Kenya safari, decide between a mid-range road safari or a fly-in luxury circuit, then book your permits and lodges at least six months in advance. Aim for a 7-day trip to balance travel time between the Maasai Mara and one other park like Amboseli or Samburu.
- Choose your safari style. Decide between a 'road safari' (cheaper, more scenic, requires 4-6 hours of driving between parks in a 4x4 Land Cruiser) or a 'fly-in safari' (saves time, uses light aircraft to jump between parks, significantly more expensive).
- Select your parks. For a first trip, the 'Big Five' circuit is the Maasai Mara (essential), Amboseli (for Kilimanjaro views and elephants), and Lake Nakuru or Naivasha (for birdlife and scenery).
- Time your visit for the Great Migration. If you want to see the Great Migration, target the Maasai Mara between July and October. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, visit in the 'shoulder' months of January or June.
- Verify your ground transport. Never self-drive unless you are an expert in off-road navigation. Book a reputable tour operator who provides a certified KPSGA-rated driver-guide and a pop-top 4x4 Land Cruiser.
- Is it safe to drink the tap water?
- No. Always drink bottled or filtered water provided at your lodge and use it for brushing your teeth as well.
- Do I need anti-malarial medication?
- Yes, Kenya is a malaria-risk area. Consult a travel clinic at least 6 weeks before you leave to get a prescription for Malarone or Doxycycline.
- How much cash should I carry?
- Carry at least 300-500 USD in crisp, post-2010 US banknotes for tips and extras, as card machines can be unreliable in remote camps.