A Beginner’s Guide for First time Safari in 2023
Kenya is a truly remarkable destination, offering a wealth of wildlife encounters and captivating landscapes. From equatorial glaciers to sprawling plains, this country has it all. Visitors can embark on thrilling safaris and get up close to magnificent creatures like giraffes, lions, cheetahs, wildebeest, elephants, and rhinos.
For adventure seekers, Mount Kenya presents an incredible opportunity with its range of day treks and challenging expeditions. And when it’s time to relax, Kenya’s beautiful beaches provide a perfect setting for unwinding or engaging in thrilling water activities like diving and snorkeling.
What sets Kenya apart is its incredible cultural diversity, boasting over 40 distinct ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions. From wildlife enthusiasts to beach lovers and those seeking vibrant city life, Kenya caters to all interests.
If you’re new to the idea of a safari and feeling unsure where to start, fear not. This beginner’s guide will serve as your compass, offering valuable tips and insights to help you plan an unforgettable trip to Kenya. Get ready to embark on a journey filled with wonder and discovery.
Planning a Safari in Kenya A Beginner’s Guide
In this guide, we will cover
- Things You Should Know Before Visiting Kenya for a Safari
- Transport options while on safari
- The best places to visit on safari in Kenya
- The great wildebeest migration
Things you should know before visiting Kenya for a safari
When it comes to planning a safari in Kenya, it’s important to make thoughtful decisions to ensure an amazing experience. With an array of attractions and activities, it’s crucial not to overwhelm your itinerary, especially if you have limited time. This guide will help you focus on key aspects of your trip, offering valuable insights to make your Kenya safari truly memorable. Here is everything you need to know before going on a Kenyan Safari
Choose Your Safari Focus:
To maximize your safari experience, it’s essential to choose a specific focus. If you’re eager to see the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinoceros), plan your visit during the dry season. Witnessing the Great Migration, occurring from July to October, is an awe-inspiring spectacle as millions of animals migrate from Serengeti National Park to Masai Mara National Reserve. Bird enthusiasts might prefer the rainy season when numerous bird species can be spotted, often considered a less crowded and budget-friendly time.
General Tour or Specialized Game Drive:
Deciding between a general tour and a specialized game drive depends on your preferences. A general tour allows you to encounter a variety of animals, ideal for a first safari experience. On the other hand, a specialized game drive offers the opportunity to focus on a specific animal species with experienced guides, perfect for passionate enthusiasts.
Optimal Timing:
While the climax of the dry season has been traditionally favored, exploring Kenya at other times can be equally rewarding. Off-peak travel provides advantages such as fewer crowds, closer wildlife encounters, and more competitive pricing. Understanding the specifics of your chosen destination within Kenya will help tailor your safari experience accordingly.
Choosing a Reputable Tour Operator:
Working with a reputable tour operator is vital for a successful safari. Seasoned wildlife guides possess invaluable firsthand knowledge that no amount of training can replicate. Remember that each Kenyan safari experience is unique, so advice based on other destinations may not be applicable.
Visa and Vaccinations:
Before embarking on your Kenyan safari, ensure you have the necessary visa. Applying online is a convenient option, and be prepared with essential documents like hotel confirmations and flight details. Additionally, familiarize yourself with vaccination requirements. While certain tourist areas are unaffected by diseases like yellow fever and malaria, specific regions may require vaccinations. Prioritize your health and take necessary precautions accordingly.
Health Precautions and COVID-19 Measures:
When visiting Kenya, it’s essential to take standard health precautions. Opt for bottled water, avoid street food, and thoroughly wash fruits before consumption. Regarding COVID-19 measures, stay informed about vaccination and testing requirements. Adhere to current regulations to ensure a safe and worry-free journey.
Budgeting and What to Pack:
Budgeting for a Kenya safari can be challenging, considering factors like travel season, accommodation choices, transportation options, and additional activities. Determine your maximum budget and prioritize accordingly. When it comes to packing, choose loose, neutral-colored clothing suitable for layering. Don’t forget essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars. Keep in mind luggage weight restrictions for small flights.
Overnight in Nairobi:
Many safaris commence with an overnight stay in Nairobi. Select accommodations that align with your preferences, ranging from classic colonial hotels to trendy apartments. Recommended options include The Sarova hotels, Olesereni hotel and Hemingways if you are looking for a luxury stay. For an extraordinary experience, consider adding a night at Giraffe Manor, a truly unique opportunity. If you are on budget I can suggest for your accomodation options which are less than $100 per night. Being also a house hunting specialist in Nairobi I can help you get a studio apartment from as low as $45 per night or a a one bedroom for $60 per night or 2 bedroom from$80 per night and a three bedroom from as low as $130 per night.The advantage of staying in a furnished holiday rental home compared to traditional hotel is that they tend to be more affordable for a group of travelers.
Kenya Safari Transport Means
Transportation for a Safari in Kenya: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re planning a safari in Kenya, it’s essential to understand the various transportation options available. This guide provides valuable information to help you make informed decisions and optimize your travel experience.
Ways to Reach Kenya
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi is the primary entry and departure point for international flights. Direct flights to Nairobi can take up to 14 hours, depending on your location. For a luxurious travel experience, consider Qatar’s Q Suites if you have the option to use points or invest in a business class ticket. These suites offer privacy, comfortable beds, a range of meals, and access to amenities like showers and personalized food options in the business class lounge.
Getting Around in Kenya on Safari
Fly-In Safaris:
To maximize your time and explore more destinations during your vacation, consider a fly-in safari. This involves using small planes to travel between safari areas within Kenya. The highlight of a fly-in safari is the breathtaking aerial views of the landscapes you’ll later explore on the ground. It provides a deeper understanding of the wilderness and adds an extra element of excitement. However, nervous flyers should be aware that the small size of the planes may result in feeling more motion during the flight.
Benefits of Fly-In Safaris:
- Time-efficient travel for shorter vacations.
- Avoidance of poor road conditions, particularly during the rainy season.
- Spectacular aerial views of Kenya’s landscapes.
- Minimized risks of banditry, vehicle breakdowns, and accidents.
Considerations for Fly-In Safaris: The main disadvantage of fly-in safaris is the cost of flights. If your budget allows, it is recommended to opt for this mode of transportation. Additionally, elderly or frail travelers and those with back issues may benefit from flying more frequently to minimize discomfort.
4×4 Safari Land Cruiser:
The Toyota Land Cruiser is the most luxurious and comfortable safari vehicle available. It is equipped with a 4×4 drive train, which is essential for navigating challenging driving conditions in some parks. The safari models of the Land Cruiser are uniquely modified for game-watching, offering superior off-road capabilities and access to remote areas. However, it’s important to note that modifications may vary depending on the tour operator or camp.
Kenya Safari Van:
The safari van, typically a Nissan or Toyota HiAce, is a popular choice for Kenya safaris. It features a pop-up roof designed for optimal game viewing, comfortable seating for up to eight passengers, and sliding windows for photography and observation. Safari vans are generally more affordable than Land Cruisers while still providing a satisfying safari experience.
Overland Safaris in Kenya:
An overland safari involves traveling by car with a dedicated driver/guide throughout your journey. This option offers a more cost-effective alternative to flying and allows you to witness Kenya’s rural villages and stunning countryside. It also provides flexibility, enabling stops for interesting sightings and excellent photo opportunities. However, be prepared for spending long hours in the vehicle, which can be uncomfortable and dusty. Some areas may have poor road conditions, especially during the rainy season.
Combining Fly-In and Overland Safaris:
For the best of both worlds, consider combining a fly-in safari with an overland safari. Two recommended itinerary options are:
- Fly from Nairobi to Samburu National Park and start your overland safari from there. Proceed to Mount Kenya, Lake Nakuru or Lake Naivasha, and conclude in the Masai Mara. Fly back to Nairobi from the Masai Mara, where you’ll be met by a tour company representative.
- Begin the overland safari upon arrival in Nairobi, visiting Aberdares, Mount Kenya, and Samburu. Fly from Samburu to the Masai mara
It is advisable to consider placing the Masai Mara at the end of your itinerary as it often serves as the highlight of the safari experience. However, this recommendation depends on feasibility.
In conclusion, the choice of transportation during your safari in Kenya ultimately depends on personal preferences and financial considerations.
Best Places to Visit on a Kenya Safari
The best places to visit on a Kenyan safari depend on the experience that is calling you. If it is your first time planning a safari it can be difficult to decide which is the best destination for your dream safari. In this section of this post, I will give you the best places to visit for different experiences and the best time to go.
Here are the top best places you should consider for your visit to Kenya
The Masai Mara National Reserve
The Masai Mara is Kenya’s most well-known safari place. It is the greatest spot to view the Great Wildebeest Migration. It is famous for its large herds of plains wildlife, including its remarkable population of Masai lions, and cheetahs. African leopards and Masai giraffes are also home to a large number of elephants and almost every other species of wildlife found in Kenya.
Generally, it is the best for migration safaris and Maasai cultural activities.
The best time to visit Masai Mara is between June and October if you are targeting the wildebeest migration, but generally, safaris are throughout the year especially if you choose to fly in safari or combo, but if you are using an overland safari during rainy seasons some roads can be challenging
Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park is the best for elephant safari and views of Mount Kilimanjaro It is a picture-perfect national park in Kenya. Here is where those Instagram pictures of elephant herds against Mt. Kilimanjaro’s glaciers come from.
A safari in Amboseli Kenya must include the stunning view of Mt. Kilimanjaro. You will also see the huge African elephant herds, wildebeest, zebras, lions, warthogs, giraffes, cheetahs, buffalo, impalas, leopards, jackals, and up to 370 different species of birds in the park,
The best time to visit Amboseli National Park is between January to the end of February and between May to October when it dries
The Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park is the best for the safari in a city, whereas most big cities have a variety of lovely parks with well-kept lawns, mature trees, winding walks, and sometimes a boating lake, Nairobi has taken things a step further.
Did you know that Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, is the only city in the world to have a National Park right at the city’s entrance? Well, now you know,
If you do choose to visit the only national park in a city, get prepared to enjoy the outdoors and the impressive sights of buffalo, lions, gazelles, zebras, giraffes, leopards, warthogs, and more than 400 different species of birds.
What makes this destination special is the fact that the majority of people traveling to Kenya spend their first and maybe last nights in hotels located fairly close to the park’s boundaries, but they never bothered to go inside.
Don’t be like the majority, be extraordinary and make sure that a visit to Nairobi National Park is incorporated into your itinerary.
The best time to visit the Nairobi national park throughout the year
Lake Nakuru National Park
For wetland safaris and birdwatching, Lake Nakuru National Park is the best.
On the shores of Lake Nakuru, there are more than a million pink flamingos which it is well known from. It is also home to Rothschild’s giraffes, hippos, Black and white rhinos, warthogs, zebra, lions., ostriches, and many other bird species
A park is a wonderful option for individuals who want a quick fix on a safari and for those who don’t have the funds to visit some of the more remote, expansive, or exclusive parks, reserves, and conservancies
The best time to visit Lake Nakuru is all year round
The migration of wildebeest in Masai Mara
This is one of the most sought-after East Africa safari experiences. Some people would plan a safari just for this experience only,
The Great Migration is the movement of more than a million wildebeest, zebras, and other mammals from Tanzania’s Serengeti to the Masai Mara Reserve in Kenya, which is right next to Serengeti. It is considered one of the most amazing and exciting ways animals behave in the world.
Every year, the animals follow their instincts to move to better pastures, which are determined by how much rain falls over the Masai Mara -Serengeti ecosystem.
For the 2023 and 2024 seasons, we suggest planning your trip for July, when the big herds of wildebeest usually start moving into Masai Mara. The movement lasts until the end of August, then starts to slow down until about the middle of October.
Even though the numbers change every year, up to 1.5 million wildebeest, close to a million zebras, and a lot of other animals have made the long journey that takes many weeks in the past. Their trip is especially dangerous because they have to cross the Mara and Talek rivers, which are full of crocodiles. Many of them can’t get away from the giant Nile crocodiles that are waiting for their prey.
People who planning to go on safari in Kenya often have a lot of questions about migration, so I have answered some of the most popular ones below.
Frequently asked questions about the Great Wildebeest Migration
When does the Wildebeest Migration happen?
Although the movement of animals into Masai Mara usually begins in July and finishes in October, the exact times are not known until the first big groups of wildebeest gather at the northernmost point of Serengeti national park Tanzania as they get close to the Mara. People have seen these first groups stay in one place for days without crossing into the Mara, so it’s hard to say when the last part of the migration will start.
When should you go to Masai Mara to see the Migration?
Based on years of experience, the most suitable period to see the migration is between the middle of July and the end of August. Keep in mind that it is a slow process that takes place at different places along the Serengeti-Masai Mara border at different times over several weeks. If we had to choose one month, we would probably say August is the best time to see the movement.
Where do the wildebeest go and where do they come from?
The wildebeest move from Serengeti to Masai Mara because of things like the weather, the grass, and the mating and birthing seasons. Keep in mind that the wildebeest move around the Serengeti in a clockwise direction for most of the year. They pass through Southern, Central, and Western Serengeti on their way to Masai Mara in July or August. Around the end of October, they make their way back to Serengeti, but this is less exciting and more like a slow spread out.
How do you see the Great Migration of the Wildebeest?
During a safari game drive in the Masai Mara Game Reserve, you can see the migration. These drives are done in specially equipped cars driven by experienced Driver-Guides. As there are several key spots where the wildebeest cross the rivers, it may be necessary to get to and stay at these spots during a full day in the reserve, as some of the cabins and camps are up to an hour’s drive from the best places to watch. Most people who come to see the migration think that seeing the river crossings is the best part of their trip. This is why they want to spend enough time at these crossing points, which, by the way, tend to change a little bit from year to year while staying in the same area of the reserve.
Frequently Asked Questions about Planning a Safari to Kenya
How much would a safari in Kenya cost?
During the low season of the year, you can expect to pay about US$300 per person for a budget tour with no extras. For a mid-range and luxury Kenya safari with top-notch sites and guides during peak season, you should prepare to pay US$800 or US$2500 per person depending on the level of luxury of camps and lodges you choose and transport options fly-in safaris are expensive but stress-free
How do I plan for a safari in Kenya?
Plan for a minimum of two weeks. That should be enough for a minimum of 3 different lodges for four days stays in different places. Most days, you go on a game drive in the early morning and another one in the late afternoon. Spending 3days and 2 nights in each lodge always promise that you’re going to see a lot
How far in advance should you plan a safari?
You should start making plans for your dream trip six to twelve months ahead of time. But before you start to plan, you should think about what you want. If you want to see the wildebeest migration, for example, you should visit Kenya between July and October.
What month is best for the safari in Kenya?
Between mid-June and early October, when it’s dry, is the best time to go on a safari. This is a cooler time of year when animals are more likely to be out looking for water. You can also see the famous Masai Mara migration during these months.
How long is too long for a safari?
From my experience taking groups on safaris, I’ve found that the average person wants to spend no more than 3–4 days on a safari to have a great time. If you want to go to other animal parks you can only do so for a total of 5 days. If you want to visit the beach and lakes, you should plan for 7–10 days.
How much does a luxurious Kenyan trip cost?
A luxury safari plan is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, but it will cost you at least $600 to $2000 per person per day. On a luxurious safari in Kenya, you will stay in five-star camps and lodges that cost between $200 and $800 per traveler per day
Why does Masai Mara cost so much?
Prices are usually higher during the peak season, which is usually when the Great Wildebeest Migration happens. This is because the Great Wildebeest Migration brings a lot of people to Masai Mara, which makes it more expensive to get a room. After all, there are so many people looking for them. From July to October is the busiest time.
Is safari cheaper in Kenya or Tanzania?
If you don’t have a lot of money, you might want to go on a safari in Kenya instead of Tanzania, which is more expensive. We just want to point out that, as you presumably already know, safaris are usually not cheap.
Is Masai Mara more expensive than Serengeti?
Most of the time, Masai Mara Safaris cost less than Serengeti Safaris. But even so, there are still a lot of good Budget Serengeti Safaris out there. Most budget Masai Mara safaris cost less because there are more safari hotels close to the national reserve that aren’t too expensive.
What is the Great wildebeest migration?
The Great Wildebeest Migration is the biggest movement of animals on Earth. Every year, more than 2 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move in a clockwise direction across the environments of Serengeti animal park in Tanzania and Masai Mara Park in Kenya).
What is the most fascinating fact about Wildebeest Migration?
The Great Wildebeest Migration is the world’s longest overland movement. The Great Movement is both the longest and the greatest overland movement in history. Each cycle, the herds cover a distance of at least 500 miles (800 km).
What month is the Great Migration in Kenya?
The best months to see the Great Migration are often July through October. Incredibly large numbers of wildebeest cross the Mara River as they migrate into Kenya’s Masai Mara between July and August. One of the Great Migration’s most sought-after experiences for tourists is a river crossing.
