- About Kenya
- Why Visit Kenya
- Places To Visit in Kenya
- When to go Kenya
- Kenya Travel Tip
- Kenya Tours & Safaris
Kenya's Historical Background and Economic Overview
Adventures galore, Kenya makes you fall in love with the design of the world, wherein the wildebeest migrate and your soul comes home. While Kenya gained independence from Britain in 1963, its roots extend deep into prehistoric times. Situated at the core of a region where modern humans originated approximately 150,000 years ago, Kenya's history has been profoundly shaped by a multitude of factors. This includes the presence of indigenous and migratory African ethnic groups, European and Arabian traders, missionaries, and colonisers. Jomo Kenyatta, the first leader of independent, post-colonial Kenya, introduced the unifying cry of 'harambee' - signifying the spirit of collective effort, which later became the national motto.
Today, Kenya stands as the East African region’s most prominent and advanced economy. Agriculture engages 75% of the workforce, yet it is the service industry, primarily driven by tourism, that contributes nearly two-thirds of Kenya’s GDP.
Kenya's People, Culture and Belief
With a predominantly youthful population (comprising nearly 75% of Kenyans under the age of 30), Kenya is a nation of diverse ethnic groups, including the renowned Maasai. The official languages are English and Swahili, and Kenyans warmly embrace any attempts to converse in Swahili. The vast majority of Kenyans identify as Christian, while approximately 10% of the population adheres to Islam, with the majority residing along Kenya's Indian Ocean coast. Kenyan society tends to be fairly conservative, particularly in areas influenced by Islam, where courtesy and good manners are highly valued.
It’s important to exercise caution when taking photographs of local people. Always request permission, and be prepared for requests for compensation, especially in Kenya’s most frequented destinations. However, for the most part, Kenyan people are known for their easy-going, friendly, humorous, and helpful nature, which makes travelling and engaging with them a truly enjoyable experience.
Kenya's Landscape and Wildlife
Positioned astride the equator, Kenya's landscape is characterised by the magnificent Rift Valley, an elevated region adorned with lakes, hills, and mountains, shaped by a 6,000-kilometre fissure in the Earth's crust. Separating the flat coastal plains from the fertile Lake Victoria shores, the undulating temperate grasslands of the central Rift Valley host a profusion of wildlife, making it home to Kenya's most renowned national parks and reserves. The arid shrublands of northern Kenya offer a habitat for more remote and untamed parks, housing a different array of animals. Meanwhile, Kenya's Indian Ocean coastline features endless sandy beaches, coral reefs, and tropical islands.
Kenya is perhaps best known for the epic wildebeest migration that traverses the Masai Mara and the Serengeti ecosystem. The country’s ban on hunting, along with various private and local community conservation efforts, has played a pivotal role in safeguarding one of Africa’s most vital populations of large animals. Kenya boasts thriving populations of the Big 5, abundant predators, an array of plains game, and a diverse selection of bird species. Consequently, several Kenyan parks offer some of the most accessible and rewarding game-viewing experiences in all of Africa.
Kenya's Capital City
Nairobi
Kenya's Population
53 million
Kenya's Currency
Kenyan Shilling
Kenya's Language
English, Swahili
Kenya's Calling Code
+254
Embark on an incredible safari adventure in Kenya, the very birthplace of safari travel. Kenya’s finest tours and safaris offer a captivating blend of Big 5 game encounters, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. Often, these journeys seamlessly blend Kenya’s top attractions with Tanzania and the sun-kissed beaches along the Kenyan coast.
Your Kenyan safari wish list is replete with remarkable experiences. Witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration in the iconic Masai Mara, be enchanted by Amboseli’s breathtaking vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro, and track elusive leopards in Samburu. Immerse yourself in fascinating cultures by visiting authentic Masai villages, and savour a delightful fusion of African, Indian, and European flavours that make up the unique Swahili culture.
Kenya’s most celebrated attraction is the natural spectacle of mega-herds, including wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle, embarking on an annual pilgrimage known as the Great Migration. Depending on the timing of your Kenya safari, you might witness the epic life-and-death dramas of river crossings in the Mara or thrilling encounters with Africa’s apex predators on the open savannah.
Kenya easily pairs with neighbouring countries like Tanzania and Rwanda, offering the chance to include mesmerising gorilla trekking in your Kenyan safari. There’s also a wide array of tours that combine the thrill of a safari with tranquil beach getaways, allowing you to relish Kenya’s cinematic landscapes and wildlife, followed by well-deserved relaxation on a tropical island.
Kenya caters to every type of traveller. Families can enjoy unforgettable Kenya family safaris, complete with child-friendly activities and services. Romantic hideaways await couples seeking intimate getaways, while adventurous honeymooners can create lasting memories. Even small groups of friends and family celebrating special anniversaries will find Kenya’s high standards of service and luxurious accommodations, ranging from opulent, colonial-style lodges to trendy boutique hotels and well-appointed resorts, absolutely unbeatable.
When you conjure images of Africa, Kenya is often the first that springs to mind. Kenya stands out as a spectacular destination that frequently graces the Africa bucket lists of many travellers, and for excellent reasons. This East African gem boasts a plethora of enchanting places to explore, each offering its unique allure and attractions. While the renowned Masai Mara is the ultimate choice for witnessing the dramatic wildebeest migration, Kenya presents a diverse tapestry of captivating destinations.
Central Region: This is typically where most Kenya safari itineraries commence since Nairobi serves as the nation’s logistical hub.
Western Kenya: Home to the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve, renowned as the biggest name in safari.
Northern Region: This offers superb safari options, including Samburu National Park, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, and Laikipia.
Southern Region: Here, you’ll encounter Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro. Additionally, along the southeastern coast, some of Kenya’s finest beaches await your exploration.
The Masai Mara: Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration and Year-Round Game-Viewing
The Masai Mara, Kenya's flagship conservation area, is a pivotal player in the mesmerising Masai Mara-Serengeti ecosystem, renowned for the iconic Great Wildebeest Migration. This premier destination delivers awe-inspiring game viewing and a wide range of experiences, catering to all travellers. Balloon safaris, action-packed game drives, cultural interactions, and guided nature walks in private conservancies all make the Masai Mara a top-notch Kenya destination. Not to forget, the selection of spectacular Masai Mara lodges only elevates your experience.
Lamu Archipelago: Classic Barefoot Luxury Beach Retreat
With scuba diving and snorkelling amid pristine reefs, sunset dhow cruises, and the chance to swim with dolphins, the untouched Lamu Archipelago encompasses all the elements of an idyllic beach holiday. It is the perfect addition to your Kenyan safari, offering romantic getaways and an exceptional honeymoon escape. You'll find superb luxury accommodations on both Lamu Island and nearby Manda Island.
Nairobi: East Africa's Vibrant Hub
As the gateway for most of Kenya's best safaris, Nairobi is a bustling city. International visitors often land at Jomo Kenyatta Airport, with Wilson Airport, approximately 90 minutes away, providing regional and charter flights to Kenya's top destinations like the Masai Mara. While downtown Nairobi is best avoided, the city's leafy suburbs house many main attractions, including the Karen Blixen Museum, the Giraffe Centre, and the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. Don't miss a visit to the extraordinary Giraffe Manor, where these gentle creatures pop their heads through your bedroom window for an unforgettable encounter. The nearby Nairobi National Park, amidst a backdrop of city skyscrapers, is a sanctuary for lions, rhinos, zebras, and various antelope species, offering an introduction to ethical animal encounters in Africa.
Mombasa & Kenya Beaches: Family Resorts & Luxury Lodges
While Kenya's safari destinations often steal the spotlight, it's easy to overlook the country's stunning tropical coastline. The sandy shores and azure waters grace some of Kenya’s finest vacation spots. Mainland Mombasa, in particular, is beloved for its Kenya beach resorts, making it a favourite for families. However, if you seek exclusivity, luxury, and indulgence, inquire about Kenya's more secluded mainland beach lodges.
Amboseli National Park: Best Views of Mount Kilimanjaro
A short distance from Nairobi, Amboseli National Park offers quintessential views of Mount Kilimanjaro, ironically located across the Tanzanian border. The park is known for excellent big game viewing, especially around its wetland areas. Keep in mind that Amboseli is a popular and busy park year-round, making it one of the best times for a Kenya safari. You'll be sharing your wildlife sightings with other visitors, making it a sought-after Kenya vacation destination. For those seeking a relaxed Mount Kenya safari, this park is a great choice.
Laikipia Plateau: Private Reserves & Outstanding Accommodation
Kenya's newest safari destination, the Laikipia Plateau, sits just north of Nairobi on the rim of the magnificent Great Rift Valley. This area comprises thriving private reserves, luxurious family-friendly accommodations, and is a prime choice for a romantic honeymoon in Africa. If you're looking for an intimate and diverse Kenya safari experience away from the crowds, the Laikipia Plateau is the ideal destination.
Mount Kenya & Central Highlands: Wildlife Viewing in Serene Settings
If you're seeking less crowded safari destinations in Kenya, head for the rugged Central Highlands. This region, dominated by Africa's second-highest peak, Mount Kenya, features excellent wildlife areas. These include the family-friendly and multi-activity Meru National Park, the private Lewa Downs Conservancy nestled in the foothills of Mount Kenya, the Mount Kenya National Park, and the lush forests of Aberdares National Park. The choice between visiting Mount Kenya vs. Kilimanjaro can be tough, but these parks each have their own unique charm. Recently, UNESCO has declared that the Mount Kenya-Lewa Wildlife Conservancy will be extended as part of Mount Kenya National Park, enhancing its status as a World Heritage Site and solidifying the region as a top Kenya vacation destination.
Lake Nakuru: Spectacular Game Viewing
Located just a three-hour drive from Nairobi in the Great Rift Valley, Lake Nakuru is home to an abundance of wildlife and mesmerising landscapes. Here, you can observe rhinos and hippos, with bird watchers delighted by the 400 bird species found in the area. For an authentic Kenya vacation experience, consider staying at the sensational Lake Nakuru Lodge.
Shaba and Samburu: Untamed Wilderness
To the north of the region where Kenya's savannah transitions into desert scrub and mountains, you'll discover Shaba and Samburu National Reserves. This dramatic landscape features a unique blend of classic African animals and some species not typically found in Kenya's more popular parks. With its magnificent topography and rich wildlife, Samburu National Reserve is widely regarded as one of Kenya's premier vacation spots. Shaba, with its distinct landscape, offers an equally captivating experience.
The prime period for a Kenyan sojourn is generally from June to October. During this span, rainfall is minimal, and daytime temperatures remain pleasant without becoming excessively hot. Nevertheless, Kenya boasts a diverse topography and a temperate climate, rendering it a fantastic year-round destination for both safaris and beach vacations.
For safari enthusiasts, the period between January and late March is also highly recommended. The weather is mild, predominantly dry, and offers exceptional game viewing opportunities. Visiting during the rainy seasons, from mid-March to June and again from November to December, is a viable option. This choice allows you to circumvent the peak-season crowds and capitalise on reduced, off-season rates at Kenya’s safari lodges.
When it comes to Kenya’s renowned beach getaways, the concept of the “best time” is somewhat subjective. The Indian Ocean coastline of Kenya tends to be hot and exceedingly humid throughout the year, with the possibility of rainfall at any given time.
January is an excellent time for a Kenyan adventure, with splendid game-viewing opportunities amidst the summer season. It falls outside the prominent rainy seasons, making it perfect for beach vacations along the Kenyan coast, though the temperatures can be quite high.
February is another fantastic month to embark on a Kenya safari. The central highlands offer warm days and cool evenings, while the coastal regions experience scorching daytime temperatures followed by balmy evenings. February brings reduced rainfall in the Masai Mara compared to the rest of the year, increasing your chances of encountering wildlife at watering holes. It’s also the ideal time to conquer Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak.
In March, the weather transitions rapidly from ‘hot and dry’ to ‘wet and rainy.’ Rainfall becomes common across large parts of the country, often turning the savannah into a muddy landscape with some areas challenging to access due to impassable roads. However, the upside to the less-than-ideal weather is that it results in fewer crowds and lower costs.
April ushers in one of Kenya’s rainiest months. Nairobi and the central highlands experience daytime warmth and comfortable nights, while Mombasa remains hot throughout the day and night. Game drives may be challenging on muddy roads, but this month provides a wonderful opportunity for photographers on safari. The absence of dust, lush green landscapes, and moody skies create a captivating backdrop for incredible wildlife photography. Just remember to safeguard your equipment from the elements!
Come May, the long rains have settled in, quenching the African plains. Along the coastline, the beaches lose their sunny paradise appeal, making it less than ideal for a sandy beach and ocean escape.
The months of June through October herald the onset of the long dry season, celebrated as the prime time for a quintessential ‘Out of Africa’ safari experience. This period boasts impeccable weather, wildlife congregating around water sources, and a palpable anticipation for the Great Migration’s mega-herds arriving in the Masai Mara.
Toward the end of July, Mother Nature’s most incredible spectacle unfolds as the herds begin their arrival in the Masai Mara, offering a front-row view of dramatic river crossings. The weather remains temperate and dry, with occasional showers still possible.
In August, the Great Migration reached its zenith. Pleasant temperatures set the stage for awe-inspiring moments as thousands of zebras and wildebeest execute their daring river crossings, with lurking crocodiles adding to the suspense. The generally dry conditions persist through September, ensuring continued outstanding game-viewing opportunities.
By October, the migratory herds typically commence their departure from the Masai Mara. However, Kenya boasts a wealth of resident wildlife, keeping enthusiasts captivated in the realm of the Big 5.
November marks the advent of the short rainy season, with most parks and camps remaining open, although some camps may close on the Laikipia Plateau. Despite the rain, this is an opportune moment to enjoy a less crowded Kenya safari at reduced prices.
The final month of the year, December, tends to be quite warm with potential rain. Nevertheless, wildlife viewing remains spectacular, as it always is. This period is particularly rewarding for birdwatchers, with bird numbers significantly increasing.
Kenya Travel Advice
Let our experts at Reimagining Travel, take care of your vacation in Kenya so that you could just sit, relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the wilderness.
Currency: Kenyan Shilling (advisable to carry US dollars (printed after 2006) and not those that are operating on 2003)
Transaction: Banking facilities and ATMs are found throughout Kenya’s major travel destinations and all major credit cards are widely accepted, in particular MasterCard, Visa and American Express.
Recommended: Tipping for good service is customary in Kenya although it is of course at your discretion – bear in mind that some of the larger hotels will add a service charge onto your bill.
Others: In urban restaurants and bars, it is common to offer a 10% – 15% tip when a service charge is not included.
Average Summer Temperature: 20 – 34°C
Average Winter Temperature: 18 – 29°C
Rainy Season: Mid-March to June (‘long rains’) and October to December (‘short rains’)
Regular/Everyday: When preparing for your Kenya safari, it’s advisable to pack light, casual clothing in neutral shades (it’s a good idea to steer clear of white, black, and blue) and a warm jacket for evening game drives.
Specific: In Kenya’s major cities, the dress code tends to be conservative yet not excessively formal. Women can comfortably wear jeans and modest tops. On the beach, swimsuits are perfectly acceptable, but it’s important to cover up when in public areas.
Did you know that you can book your flights through Reimagining Travel? For further information and answers to frequently asked questions, please contact one of our Travel Experts.
International Airports
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport: Positioned 13 kilometres (8 miles) outside Nairobi, this major flight hub of East Africa serves as the primary gateway to numerous destinations, including the Masai Mara, Amboseli, Mombasa, Kenya’s picturesque beaches, as well as international locations like Zanzibar and Tanzania. Excellent flight connections are also available to neighbouring countries such as Uganda, Rwanda, and the Seychelles.
Moi Mombasa International Airport: Nestled about 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) northwest of Mombasa’s city centre, this airport acts as the primary entry point for travellers visiting the beautiful Kenyan coastline.
For convenient and efficient travel within Kenya, chartered flights are a popular choice, offering an alternative to the often unpaved roads. Ground transportation from airstrips to lodges is typically conducted using 4X4 vehicles.
Domestic Airport
Wilson Airport: Located approximately 90 minutes away from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Wilson Airport is a regional aviation hub that handles the majority of Kenya’s domestic flights, particularly to its various fly-in safari destinations. When arranging your travel, it’s important to account for the transfer time between your international flight and your domestic flight at these two airports.
Others
Road transfers between airports and major destinations are frequently executed using minibus vehicles. These minibuses are equipped with sliding windows and a pop-up roof, ensuring passengers have ample opportunities for wildlife viewing during game drives. In more remote areas and private conservancies, open-sided 4X4 vehicles are commonly used for safaris.
Most visitors to Kenya, encompassing holders of British, American, Canadian, European, Australian, and New Zealand passports, are obligated to obtain visas. However, citizens of select smaller Commonwealth countries are exempt from this requirement.
The acquired visas hold a validity period of three months starting from the date of entry. These visas are attainable upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Payment for the visas can be made in the local currency, and it is imperative for visitors to possess a passport that remains valid for at least six months after the initial travel date.
For those with intentions of journeying onward from Kenya to other East African nations, such as Tanzania and Uganda, visas for these destinations can typically be procured in Nairobi at an approximate cost of US$50 each.
Additional Advice: Safety & Security
Many travellers, particularly those venturing to Kenya for the first time, inquire, “Can I travel to Kenya?” Seeking guidance for exploring this East African wildlife haven, which hosts the renowned Great Wildebeest Migration across the sweeping landscapes of the Masai Mara.
It is crucial to acknowledge that, despite tragic terrorist incidents, Kenya’s main tourism centres remain largely unaffected. Enhanced security measures have been implemented at all airports, with particular focus on Jomo Kenyatta and Wilson airports, as well as hotels throughout Nairobi. Rest assured; we would never recommend a destination to our clients that we would not personally visit ourselves.
The experts at Reimagining Travel have resided in Kenya and reported feeling remarkably secure, especially since we have meticulously crafted seamless itineraries featuring private drivers, trusted partners, and experienced lodge personnel every step of the way. In addition to closely monitoring the whereabouts of our clients, all travellers with Reimagining Travel enjoy exclusive access to a 24/7 hotline staffed by senior personnel, ensuring assistance in any emergency, regardless of its scale.
