Kenya Safaris FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. When is the best time to go on safari in Kenya?

The dry seasons are best for wildlife viewing:

  • June to October – Peak safari season and Great Migration (Maasai Mara)

  • January to March – Hot, dry, and clear – ideal for photography and big cats
    Rainy seasons (April–May and November) can be lush but muddy and less predictable.

2. What wildlife can I expect to see?

Kenya is home to the Big Five:

  • Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Rhino
    Plus: Cheetahs, Giraffes, Hippos, Zebras, Crocodiles, Wildebeest, Hyenas, and 1,000+ bird species.

You’ll also find unique animals depending on the park:

  • Samburu: Grevy’s zebra, gerenuk, Somali ostrich

  • Amboseli: Massive elephant herds

  • Ol Pejeta: Chimpanzees, rhinos, northern white rhinos

3. What are the top safari destinations in Kenya?

  • Maasai Mara – Iconic game viewing, Great Migration

  • Amboseli – Elephants + Mount Kilimanjaro views

  • Lake Nakuru – Flamingos, rhinos, lake scenery

  • Samburu – Unique northern species, fewer crowds

  • Ol Pejeta Conservancy – Rhino sanctuary, Big Five, chimpanzees

  • Tsavo East & West – Huge, wild, and less touristy

  • Aberdare / Mount Kenya – Forest and mountain wildlife

4. What types of safaris are available in Kenya?

  • Game drives (shared or private)

  • Walking safaris (in select conservancies)

  • Balloon safaris (especially in Maasai Mara)

  • Horseback or cycling safaris (Laikipia, Hell’s Gate)

  • Night game drives (only allowed in conservancies)

5. What are the accommodation options on safari?

  • Luxury lodges and tented camps – High-end, full service

  • Mid-range safari camps – Comfortable, authentic experience

  • Budget campsites or eco-lodges – Affordable, often community-run
    Many camps are located inside or near the parks and include meals and game drives.

6. What should I pack for a Kenyan safari?

  • Neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors and camouflage)

  • Warm layers (early morning drives can be cold)

  • Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

  • Binoculars & camera

  • Insect repellent & basic medications

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Comfortable shoes (especially for walking safaris)

7. Are vaccinations or medications required?

Yes. Common recommendations include:

  • Yellow fever (required if coming from a yellow fever–risk country)

  • Malaria prophylaxis (recommended for most regions)

  • Routine vaccines: Typhoid, Hepatitis A/B, Tetanus, etc.

Check with your doctor or travel clinic 4–6 weeks before travel.

8. Is Kenya safe for tourists and safari travel?

Yes, Kenya is generally safe, especially in national parks and conservancies. Use a licensed tour operator, avoid isolated areas at night, and follow your guide’s instructions at all times. Nairobi and Mombasa require usual big-city precautions.

9. Can I use credit cards and ATMs in Kenya?

  • Major towns and hotels accept Visa/Mastercard

  • Carry some Kenyan Shillings (KES) for small purchases or tips

  • ATMs are widely available in cities

  • Safaris may require cash tips for guides, porters, etc.

10. How much does a Kenya safari cost?

  • Budget safaris: $150–$250 per person/day

  • Mid-range safaris: $250–$400

  • Luxury safaris: $500+ per person/day
    Prices vary by season, park, accommodation, and transport.

11. How do I get to the safari parks?

  • By road: Many parks are 3–6 hours from Nairobi

  • By air: Charter or scheduled flights to airstrips inside parks (e.g., Mara, Amboseli, Samburu, Nanyuki)

  • Transfers and game drives are usually included in tour packages

12. Do I need a visa to visit Kenya?

Yes, most travelers require an eVisa, which can be obtained online before arrival. Visit https://evisa.go.ke