Overview

Kenya – The Original Safari Destination

Kenya is where the spirit of safari truly comes alive. From the sweeping plains of the Maasai Mara to the lakes of the Great Rift Valley and the palm-fringed shores of the Indian Ocean, its landscapes are as varied as the wildlife they support.
 
Renowned for exceptional sightings of Africa’s Big Five, Kenya offers unforgettable encounters throughout the year. Witness the drama of the Great Migration, see elephants roaming beneath Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli or explore the rugged wilderness of Laikipia and Samburu, home to rare species found only in northern Kenya.
 
Yet a Kenyan safari is about far more than simply seeing wildlife. It is the thrill of watching nature unfold, the warmth of its people and the opportunity to experience cultures whose connection to the land spans generations.
 
Whether staying in an intimate tented camp, discovering conservation projects or combining a safari with time on the coast, Kenya offers a wonderfully diverse and deeply rewarding African adventure.

Location

Where is Kenya?

Kenya is located in East Africa, bordered by Tanzania to the south, Uganda to the west, South Sudan to the north-west, Ethiopia to the north and Somalia to the north-east. Its eastern coastline lies along the Indian Ocean, offering a beautiful stretch of tropical beaches that pair seamlessly with inland safari regions.

  • Flight time: Approx. 8–9 hours direct from the UK

  • Time difference: GMT +3
  • Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES) 
  • Language: English and Swahili are the official languages.

  • Travel advice: Visit the UK Government Kenya Advice website.

Kenya
Masai Mara
Amboseli National Park

where & when

When should you visit?

Kenya can be visited year-round. The dry seasons from June to October and January to February are best for wildlife viewing, with excellent game sightings and the chance to witness the Great Migration in the Masai Mara National Reserve between July and October.

The green seasons from March to May and November to December bring lush landscapes, fewer visitors and great birdlife, offering a more relaxed and scenic experience.
 

within Kenya

Key Regions of Kenya

Nairobi

Nairobi is Kenya’s vibrant capital and the gateway to the country’s safari destinations. While often a short stopover, the city offers a unique introduction to Kenya’s culture and history.
Just outside the city lies Nairobi National Park, where wildlife roams against the backdrop of the skyline, a rare and memorable sight. Visitors can also explore attractions such as the Karen Blixen Museum or enjoy excellent restaurants and boutique hotels before heading out on safari.

Masai Mara

The Masai Mara is Kenya’s most famous reserve and one of the finest wildlife destinations in the world. Its vast open plains are home to an abundance of wildlife, including large prides of lion, elephant, leopard and buffalo.
The reserve is best known for the Great Migration, when millions of wildebeest and zebra move through the ecosystem in one of nature’s most spectacular events. Year-round, the Mara offers exceptional game viewing and a wide choice of camps ranging from classic tented safaris to ultra-luxury lodges.

Laikipia Plateau, Lewa Downs & Samburu

Laikipia and Lewa Downs offer an exclusive, off-the-beaten-track safari experience, with vast private conservancies set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Kenya. Combined with the rugged landscapes of Samburu, this region delivers a diverse and authentic Northern Kenya journey, known for strong conservation and fewer visitors.
These areas are home to exceptional wildlife, including endangered rhino, Grevy’s zebra and wild dog, as well as Samburu’s unique “Special Five” such as the reticulated giraffe and gerenuk. Activities go beyond game drives, with walking safaris, camel trekking and cultural visits adding depth to the experience.

Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park lies in southern Kenya on the border with Tanzania, set against the iconic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Renowned for its large herds of elephant and open plains, it offers excellent wildlife viewing, particularly during the dry season when animals gather around the park’s swamps and water sources. With a mix of savannah, woodland and wetlands, and unforgettable views of Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is one of Kenya’s most scenic safari destinations.

Tsavo East & West

Tsavo East and West together form one of the largest national park areas in the world, offering vast, untamed landscapes between Nairobi and the coast. Known for its red-dust elephants, dramatic scenery and diverse habitats, Tsavo provides a more remote and rugged safari experience.
While wildlife is abundant, the scale of the parks means sightings can feel more spread out, making Tsavo best suited as an addition to a broader Kenya itinerary.

Kenya Coast

Kenya’s coastline offers the perfect complement to a safari, with long stretches of white sandy beaches, warm Indian Ocean waters and swaying palm trees. The coast is rich in history, shaped by centuries of Swahili, Arab and Portuguese influence.
From the lively atmosphere of Mombasa to the laid-back charm of Lamu, the coast offers a range of experiences from luxury beach resorts to boutique hideaways. Activities include snorkelling, diving, sailing and deep-sea fishing, making it an ideal place to unwind after a safari.

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