Kenya is one of those travel destinations that delivers on the childhood postcard image of Africa — sweeping savannas, impossibly photogenic sunsets, wild herds pouring over the plains, and proud cultures who have kept their identity while welcoming visitors. But it’s also cities pulsing with creativity, a dramatic coastline on the Indian Ocean, dramatic mountains, and surprisingly diverse micro-climates and experiences. This guide gives you everything you need to plan a trip — from visas and vaccinations to a sample 10-day safari + beach itinerary, packing lists, money matters, transport, safety and responsible travel advice.

Quick snapshot (if you’re pressed for time)

Capital: Nairobi — a bustling African capital with a unique urban-national park.
Languages: English and Swahili (Kiswahili) are official; many local languages and dialects.
Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES). Credit cards widely accepted in cities; cash needed in rural areas.
Best time for safaris: Dry season, roughly June–October (peak wildlife viewing and the Great Migration in Maasai Mara).
Entry: Most travelers must obtain an electronic travel authorization (eTA/eVisa) before departure; check the official portal.
Health: Routine vaccines recommended; malaria risk in many parts — take chemoprophylaxis and use mosquito protection; consult CDC or your travel clinic.

Why go to Kenya — the big draws

Wildlife and safaris — Home to the “Big Five” and a host of parks for different tastes: Masai Mara for classic grassland sightings and the wildebeest migration; Amboseli for elephants with a Kilimanjaro backdrop; Samburu for unique northern species; Tsavo for vastness and red-earth landscapes.
Culture — The Maasai are among the most recognized communities, but Kenya’s cultural map includes many ethnic groups, foodways, crafts and contemporary art scenes (especially in Nairobi).
Beaches — White sand and coral reefs on the south coast around Diani, Watamu and Malindi.
Mountains & hiking — Mount Kenya (snow-capped peaks on the Equator) offers trekking and alpine environments distinct from the lowland parks.
Urban experiences — Nairobi surprises: modern restaurants, coffee culture, museums, and Nairobi National Park just outside the city.

Practical pre-trip essentials

1. Entry requirements & the eTA

From January 2024 Kenya moved to a digital Electronic Travel Authorization system (eTA). Most travelers must apply and pay online before travel. Always use the official portal and check for exceptions (diplomats, certain citizens, or emergency travel). U.S./international government travel pages suggest carrying proofs like vaccination certificates when required.

Tip: Apply early (several weeks before travel), keep a PDF printout or screenshot of approval and the credit card used for payment.

2. Visas, passports & documents

Passport should generally be valid for at least six months with blank pages.
Print copies of your passport bio page, eTA approval, and travel insurance.
If arriving from or transiting through a yellow-fever-endemic country, Kenya may ask for a yellow fever certificate.

3. Health, vaccinations & malaria

Consult a travel health clinic 6–8 weeks before travel. The CDC and other health authorities recommend routine vaccines (MMR, diphtheria/tetanus), Hep A, and sometimes Hep B; yellow fever is required for travelers from certain countries. Malaria is present in much of Kenya (coastal, western lowlands and many reserves) so take recommended prophylaxis and always use insect repellent and bed nets.

4. Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation (some parks are remote), cancellation, and lost baggage. Safaris often require rigid schedules — unexpected vehicle breakdowns or weather can change plans, so insurance reduces stress.

5. Money & tipping

Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES). ATMs in Nairobi and major towns; bring some cash for remote lodges, tips and markets.
Tipping on safari: Common practice — drivers/guides, lodge staff, porters. Many lodges provide guidance on suggested rates.
Credit cards accepted at high-end hotels and many city restaurants.

When to go — seasons and wildlife

Kenya experiences two rainy seasons and a dry period. For most visitors seeking classic safari wildlife viewing and the Great Migration (wildebeest crossing into Maasai Mara), the dry season June–October, especially July–September, is ideal. However, Kenya is a year-round destination depending on what you want to see — migratory birds in wet months, good game concentrations in the dry season, and lush landscapes after the rains.

Season quick guide

June–October (dry season): Best for safaris, predictable animal congregations, dusty landscapes, cooler nights.
November–December (short rains, some areas wet): Fewer tourists; lower rates.
March–May (long rains): Heaviest rains — some roads become impassable; less ideal for cross-country driving but beautiful for birding and green scenery.
December–February: Warm and good for the coast and some parks.

How to get there & around

International flights

Major international gateway is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi. Mombasa’s Moi International Airport (MBA) serves the coast and some international routes. Many visitors fly into Nairobi and transfer domestically.

Domestic travel

Domestic flights: Primary way to reach most conservancies and parks quickly. Airlines like Safarilink, Jambojet and Kenya Airways’ domestic partner flights connect Nairobi with camps near Masai Mara, Samburu, Diani (via Ukunda) and more. Small-airstrips make air travel easy (and scenic).
Road travel: Main highways between Nairobi and Mombasa or to Naivasha/Naivasha area are generally in good condition. However, many park access roads are rough and require 4×4 vehicles.
Trains: The Mombasa–Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) is a comfortable option between those cities.
Car hire: You can rent cars in Nairobi; for remote parks a 4×4 and sometimes local driver/guide are necessary.

Tip: Many safari lodges include domestic transfers in the package price; coordinate timings carefully to avoid long delays.

Regions & top parks — where to go and what you’ll see

1. Maasai Mara National Reserve (southwest)

The most famous reserve, the Mara is framed in public imagination by the Great Migration — the month-by-month movement of wildebeest, zebra and gazelles between Serengeti and Mara. July–September often brings dramatic river crossings where predators wait. Expect classic savanna scenery, lions, leopards, cheetah, large elephant and buffalo herds. There are also private conservancies bordering the public reserve with more exclusive game drives.

2. Amboseli National Park (south)

Renowned for vast elephant herds and iconic photos of elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro (on clear days — the mountain is actually in Tanzania). Amboseli’s swampy interiors and marshes attract abundant birdlife and offer great photographic opportunities.

3. Samburu & northern parks

Samburu, Buffalo Springs and Shaba are arid, rugged and home to species less common in the south (reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich). The northern parks offer a very different landscape and culture.

4. Tsavo East & West (southeast)

One of the largest national parks in the world. Tsavo East is famous for wide open plains and red dust; Tsavo West offers dramatic lava flows, Mzima Springs (clear pools with hippopotamus) and rugged scenery. Great for long drives and sense of wilderness.

5. Lake Nakuru & Naivasha (Rift Valley)

Lake Nakuru is famous for flamingos (when water/food conditions concentrate them), and is also a rhino sanctuary. Naivasha and Hell’s Gate nearby offer boat rides, birding and even cycling trips through the park.

6. Mount Kenya & Aberdares (highlands)

Hiking, unique vegetation zones, and cooler temperatures. Mount Kenya National Park is for trekkers seeking alpine routes; Aberdare NP is forested, with lodges where wildlife may come close to waterholes.

7. Coast: Mombasa, Diani, Watamu, Lamu

Pristine beaches, coral reefs for snorkelling/diving, Swahili culture and historic architecture (especially Lamu Island). The coast has a different pace and climate from the parks.

Sample itineraries

7-day classic: Nairobi + Maasai Mara

Day 1: Arrive Nairobi — relax, visit Nairobi National Museum or Karen Blixen Museum.
Day 2: Fly to Maasai Mara — afternoon game drive.
Days 3–4: Full days of game drives; optional hot-air balloon safari at dawn.
Day 5: Morning game drive, fly back to Nairobi.
Day 6: Day trip to Amboseli or Lake Nakuru if time permits (or relax in Nairobi).
Day 7: Depart.

10-day wildlife + beach (Mara + Amboseli + Diani)

Days 1–2: Nairobi — acclimatize.
Days 3–5: Masai Mara (migration season mid-July–September for crossings).
Days 6–7: Fly to Amboseli (elephants + Kilimanjaro views).
Days 8–10: Fly/coast transfer to Diani for beach, snorkelling and relaxation.
This mix shows why Kenya is ideal for combo itineraries — wildlife and then unwind on the Indian Ocean.

14+ day adventurous loop

Add Samburu, Mount Kenya treks, and a night or two in the lodges of Aberdare for diverse landscapes and experiences.

Safari types & choosing a lodge

Photographic game drives vs. walking safaris

Game drives: Most common — 4×4 game vehicles with open sides/roof for photography.
Walking safaris: Guided walks (usually in private conservancies) are immersive but only in certain areas where safe and permitted.

Luxury vs. mid-range vs. mobile camps

Luxury lodges: Private tents or suites, meals, guided drives, often include transfers; excellent for comfort and service.
Mid-range camps: Comfortable tents/lodges with good guiding; good balance of comfort and price.
Mobile tented camps: Move with the season or migrate with game, offering a “rougher” but intimate experience.

Booking tips

Compare inclusions: some packages are “full board + activities + park fees + transfers,” others exclude park fees or flights.
Ask about vehicle capacity (smaller vehicles mean better flexibility for photography).
Consider private conservancies for fewer vehicles and more flexible driving rules.

Wildlife viewing tips

Dawn and dusk are wildlife prime times — predators are most active.
Bring a telephoto lens (200mm+ recommended) and binoculars (8×42 ideal).
Patience: game doesn’t follow schedules — stay calm and stay late if you can.
Listen to your guide — they have local knowledge and will position vehicles for better sightings while respecting animal welfare.

Map of experiences & what to expect by park

Masai Mara: Big cat sightings, migration crossings, balloon safaris, Maasai cultural visits.
Amboseli: Elephants and scenic photography with distant Kilimanjaro.
Samburu: Dry-country species and unique northern cultural interactions.
Tsavo: Wilderness, red elephants (coated in red dust), and great expanses.
Nairobi National Park: Quick safaris near the city; chance to see lions against a city skyline.

Staying safe & respectful

Safety

Kenya is generally safe for tourists if normal precautions are taken: avoid isolated areas at night in cities, keep valuables secure, and follow local guidance. Use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps in Nairobi. Keep copies of your passport and travel documents. (Consult government travel advisories for any current alerts.)

Wildlife safety & rules

Never exit the vehicle in undesignated areas or when advised not to.
Keep noise to a minimum, follow your guide’s instructions, and do not attempt to feed or approach animals.

Cultural respect

Learn basic Swahili greetings (e.g., Jambo / Habari, Asante = thank you).
Photo etiquette: ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages or religious contexts.

Food, drinks & local life

Kenyan cuisine is hearty and varied: ugali (maize porridge), nyama choma (roasted meat), stews, and coastal Swahili dishes with coconut and seafood. Urban Nairobi offers a growing scene of coffee shops, fusion restaurants, and fine dining.

Water: Stick to bottled water in most places outside top hotels; in Nairobi some hotels have safe filtered water but always confirm.

Packing list (practical)

Essentials

Lightweight neutral clothing (avoid bright colors), long sleeves for dusk to minimize mosquitoes.
Warm layer for early-morning safaris (it’s cold before sunrise).
Good walking shoes and sandals for the coast.
Sun hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen.
Binoculars, camera with telephoto lens, extra batteries (or power bank).
Reusable water bottle (many lodges can refill).
Basic first-aid kit, anti-diarrheal meds, rehydration salts.
Malaria prophylaxis (as prescribed).
Plug adapters (Kenya uses British-type plugs; check your gadgets).
Light rain jacket (especially during shoulder/short rains).

Optional

Lightweight scarf or sarong for coastal mosques or village visits.
Travel laundry soap, zip locks for electronics.

Connectivity & SIM cards

Kenya has good mobile coverage in cities and many parks (especially where lodges have masts). Safaricom is the largest provider and offers tourist SIMs and data bundles. Carry your passport to register a SIM; many vendors in the airport sell preloaded cards.

Responsible travel & conservation

Prefer operators and lodges that work with local communities and reinvest in conservation.
Respect anti-poaching rules and avoid buying wildlife products (horns, ivory, or souvenirs made from endangered species).
Support community tourism initiatives where proceeds benefit local education, healthcare or conservation. Time to support certified community conservancies!

A growing number of conservancies are community-owned and engage in revenue sharing and anti-poaching projects — choosing them helps local livelihoods and wildlife protection.

Costs & budgeting (very rough)

Budget travellers: Camping or basic hostels, local transport — daily costs can be moderate in Nairobi and cheaper in towns but safaris are the expensive element.
Mid-range: Local guesthouses, 3-star lodges, combination of road and some domestic flights — expect comfortable travel with guided safaris at moderate cost.
Luxury: High-end lodges, private conservancies, domestic flights — safaris and lodges can be the major cost driver.
Safari prices vary widely based on lodge, park, season and inclusions. Always compare full-package prices (incl. park fees, transfers, meals) rather than daily rates alone.

Photography & ethical considerations

Use long lenses to keep distance and avoid influencing animal behavior.
Follow park rules about drones (usually prohibited unless with special permits).
Conserve battery and storage — remote locations may lack charging facilities.

Sample 10-day itinerary with details (day-by-day)

Day 1: Arrive Nairobi

Check into a comfortable hotel, rest. Afternoon visit to Nairobi National Museum or Karen Blixen Museum.

Day 2: Nairobi to Masai Mara

Early flight to Masai Mara. Afternoon game drive. Sunset over the Mara plains.

Days 3–4: Full Mara exploration

Dawn game drives, picnic lunches. Optional hot-air balloon on one morning (sunrise with champagne breakfast). Visit a Maasai village to learn about local culture (choose ethical, community-run visits).

Day 5: Mara to Lake Nakuru

Transfer to Lake Nakuru region (or fly depending on logistics). Afternoon birding and possible rhino sightings.

Day 6: Lake Naivasha / Hell’s Gate

Boat trip on Lake Naivasha for hippos and birding; optional cycling in Hell’s Gate.

Day 7: Drive to Amboseli or fly to coast

If choosing Amboseli, head south for elephant herds and Kilimanjaro views. Alternatively fly to Mombasa and transfer to Diani.

Day 8: Amboseli

Full day of game drives; evening at lodge.

Day 9–10: Coast (Diani or Watamu)

Relax on the beach, snorkel, enjoy Swahili cuisine, return to Mombasa and fly home.

This blends varied landscapes so you experience Kenya’s diversity.

Common questions & quick answers

Do I need malaria pills?
Yes, in many locations. Talk to your doctor about the right prophylaxis. Use repellent and long sleeves in the evening.

Are safaris kid-friendly?
Many lodges welcome children but check age restrictions for walking safaris, balloon rides, or certain conservancies.

Is Kenya safe for solo female travelers?
Many women travel safely in Kenya. Use standard urban safety precautions, travel with registered operators on safaris, and ask your accommodation about local advisories.

Can I combine Tanzania & Kenya (Serengeti + Masai Mara)?
Yes — many itineraries combine Mara with Serengeti, especially if following the migration. Multiple border and flight options exist; check visa requirements for both countries.

Final notes & planning checklist (before you go)

Book your eTA and check passport validity.
Visit a travel health clinic: vaccinations, malaria advice.
Buy travel insurance with medical evacuation.
Reserve internal flights early (seasonal peaks sell out).
Pack layers, sun protection, and binoculars.
Learn a few Swahili phrases and read about local culture to be a respectful visitor.
Choose conservation-minded operators and consider contributing time/money to reputable local projects.

Final thoughts

Kenya is a country that rewards both the planner and the spontaneous traveler. With its dramatic wildlife spectacles, warm coastal climate, and deep cultural roots, you can design a trip that’s as indulgent or adventurous as you like. For first-timers, a sampled mix of Mara plus one other region (Amboseli or a coastal stay) gives the classic Kenya experience: mornings behind binoculars, afternoons of storytelling with lodge staff, and evenings watching the sun paint the savanna in colors no photograph can fully reproduce.

Travel Guide to Kenya: World-leading Safari Destination & Diverse Landscapes