Do I need anti-malarial medication?

Yes, most of Kenya is a malaria-risk zone. Consult a travel clinic 6 weeks before you leave to get a prescription for Malarone or Doxycycline.

Can I use credit cards in the bush?

No. Carry enough US Dollars (printed after 2009) to pay for tips, souvenirs, and drinks at remote lodges. Most small camps do not accept cards.

Planning Your First Kenya Safari

To plan your first Kenya safari, focus on choosing between a lodge-based package or a private mobile camping tour for 7–10 days. Book your flights to Nairobi, hire a reputable local operator, and finalize your itinerary at least 6 months in advance to secure prime wildlife viewing spots.

Choose your safari style. Decide between a 'fly-in' safari using small bush planes to reach camps, or a 'drive-in' safari where you hire a 4x4 Land Cruiser with a guide to travel between parks. Drive-in is cheaper, while fly-in saves significant time.
Select your parks based on timing. If traveling July–September, prioritize the Maasai Mara for the Great Migration. If you want variety, include Amboseli for views of Mount Kilimanjaro and Samburu for unique 'Special Five' wildlife.
Book a reputable local operator. Avoid giant international agencies that outsource. Use platforms like SafariBookings to find local operators with at least 50 verified reviews. Ensure your quote includes park fees, vehicle, fuel, and an English-speaking guide.
Confirm park entrance fees. Kenya recently moved to an e-Citizen digital payment system. Ensure your tour operator is handling the park entry payments, as they can cost $100–$200 per person per day depending on the reserve.

Do I need anti-malarial medication?: Yes, most of Kenya is a malaria-risk zone. Consult a travel clinic 6 weeks before you leave to get a prescription for Malarone or Doxycycline.
Can I use credit cards in the bush?: No. Carry enough US Dollars (printed after 2009) to pay for tips, souvenirs, and drinks at remote lodges. Most small camps do not accept cards.