Is it safe to do a safari in Kenya?

Yes, Kenya's national parks are well-managed and safe. Stick to established camps and use reputable tour operators. The main risks are vehicle breakdowns (bring spare parts) and wildlife encounters if you leave your vehicle.

Do I need malaria medication?

Yes, Kenya has malaria risk year-round except in Nairobi and highlands above 2,500m. Consult a travel medicine doctor 4-6 weeks before departure. Most recommend Malarone or doxycycline.

Can I see the Great Migration year-round?

The herds are in Maasai Mara July-October, then move to Tanzania's Serengeti. River crossings happen July-September but are unpredictable. January-March offers calving season in Tanzania and fewer crowds in Kenya.

Should I book a group safari or private vehicle?

Private vehicles give you flexibility and better wildlife viewing but cost $200-300 more per day. Group safaris (4-6 people) are cheaper but you're stuck with others' schedules and interests.

What's the difference between a park and a conservancy?

National parks are government-run with set fees and rules. Conservancies are community-owned areas with fewer crowds, night drives allowed, and walking safaris permitted. Conservancy fees are typically higher but offer more exclusive experiences.

How to plan your first Kenya safari itinerary

Plan 7-10 days focusing on 2-3 parks to avoid constant travel. Book July-October or January-March for best wildlife viewing. Start with Maasai Mara for the classic safari experience, add Amboseli for elephants, and consider Tsavo or Lake Nakuru as your third stop.

Choose your travel window. Book for July-October (dry season, Great Migration) or January-March (calving season, fewer crowds). Avoid April-May (heavy rains) and November-December (short rains, muddy roads).
Pick 2-3 parks maximum. Don't try to see everything. Maasai Mara is essential for first-timers. Add Amboseli for Mount Kilimanjaro views and elephant herds. Consider Tsavo East for red elephants or Lake Nakuru for flamingos and rhinos as your third.
Plan your base sequence. Fly into Nairobi. Start with Amboseli (3 hours drive) for 2-3 days, then Maasai Mara (5-6 hours) for 3-4 days, ending in Nairobi. Or reverse this route. Internal flights save time but cost $150-300 per leg.
Book accommodation 3-6 months ahead. Budget camps: $80-150 per person per day. Mid-range lodges: $200-400. Luxury: $500-1500+. All prices include meals and game drives. Book directly with camps or through reputable Kenyan operators.
Arrange transportation. Hire a driver-guide through your accommodation ($200-300 per day including vehicle and guide). Don't rent a car unless you're experienced with African road conditions. 4WD is essential.
Plan buffer days. Add one day at the start in Nairobi to recover from international travel and handle any visa issues. Include one extra day at the end in case of flight delays or vehicle problems.

Is it safe to do a safari in Kenya?: Yes, Kenya's national parks are well-managed and safe. Stick to established camps and use reputable tour operators. The main risks are vehicle breakdowns (bring spare parts) and wildlife encounters if you leave your vehicle.
Do I need malaria medication?: Yes, Kenya has malaria risk year-round except in Nairobi and highlands above 2,500m. Consult a travel medicine doctor 4-6 weeks before departure. Most recommend Malarone or doxycycline.
Can I see the Great Migration year-round?: The herds are in Maasai Mara July-October, then move to Tanzania's Serengeti. River crossings happen July-September but are unpredictable. January-March offers calving season in Tanzania and fewer crowds in Kenya.
Should I book a group safari or private vehicle?: Private vehicles give you flexibility and better wildlife viewing but cost $200-300 more per day. Group safaris (4-6 people) are cheaper but you're stuck with others' schedules and interests.
What's the difference between a park and a conservancy?: National parks are government-run with set fees and rules. Conservancies are community-owned areas with fewer crowds, night drives allowed, and walking safaris permitted. Conservancy fees are typically higher but offer more exclusive experiences.