Best Kenya Safari Itinerary: Safari Planning 101

Are you here trying to find the best Kenya safari itinerary and ways to plan the details? No dramas, we are here to help and you may need to read other blogs and articles to get a clear view of how best to travel Kenya. Note, that we are not giving you a day-by-day itinerary – only a skeleton to help you plan.

The fact is, no holiday beats the Kenya Safari. It is unique, entertaining, raw, and a life changer. Yes, it will change your life forever if well-planned. I urge you to bring your kids along if you have. Just watch a recent documentary of an Indian traveller, Ankit Bhatia, below and you will realise how life-changing it is.

Source: Ankit Bhatia

Now, planning a safari to Kenya should be manageable, especially if you have several destinations to visit.  From the savannas to the arid Samburu, you will witness dramatic migration, spot the Big Five, and if you like, become part of the Maasai heritage. That’s why it’s paramount for you to plan your Kenyan trip.

Our blog explores the basics from the planning phase to the execution of your Kenya safari.

1. Best Time to Visit Kenya on Safari

Let’s start from the beginning; knowing the best time to visit is a top priority. Kenya’s climate is varied from arid to tropical and changes from time to time. So, if you choose a time that is not ideal, you might miss out on the most fun places affected weather.

If your goal is to enjoy wildlife viewing, plan your trips between April and October. January to February are also good months because they are dry.

Additionally, if you plan to witness the tremendous wildebeest migration, plan for July to October. Wild beasts and other wild animals, like Zebras, cross the Mara River into Masaai Mara from the Serengeti in Tanzania. So, planning is vital if you want the best safari in Kenya and get the most out of it.

2. Kenya Safari Ideas 

The best thing about safari trips in Kenya is that you have varied choices regarding where to visit. There are national parks, reserves, museums or if you prefer the urban scene, nightclubs and street food. These are simply breathtaking, by the way. 

To avoid confusion, you must know the commonly visited places. Or just stick to your initial trip itinerary. 

Here are some of the places you can consider:

• Amboseli National Park—If you love stunning views, Amboseli is the place to visit. Here, you’ll witness not just the breathtaking view of Mt. Kilimanjaro, but also enjoy some up-close time with Africa’s gentle giants in large herds. 
• Maasai Mara National Reserve -Anyone who has witnessed the great wildebeest migration will admit that Maasai Mara is the ideal place to enjoy that. Depending on your travel time, watch as millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the Serengeti and Maasai Mara. You’ll be captivated by the sheer scale and raw power of this ancient journey. You’ll also hear the thunderous stampede, feel the vibrations beneath your feet, and of course, witness the circle of life unfold before your very eyes.
• Tsavo National Park: This is especially known for offering an exclusive and remote experience.
• Samburu National Reserve: Samburu allows you to spot Somali ostriches, Giraffes, Antelopes, Elephants, and Zebras. You will also witness the fantastic culture of the Samburu people. There’s so much for you to explore and enjoy while on your visit. 

These are but a few of the best locations accompanied by their unique. Take your time, research, and then choose a destination that meets your unique needs. 

3. Kenya Visa: You Probably Need One

Yes, if you aren’t East African you will probably need one. Have your passport ready and ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your travel period. You may also need a Kenya electronic travel authorisation, which you can apply for online in the comfort of your home. Please check the immigration department website what is best for you. There is no need to pay expensive visa companies to obtain a Kenyan visa – the process is smooth and fast.

Additionally, ensure you’re vaccinated before your safari. Yellow fever is one such vaccination you must receive before travelling to Kenya or once you get here. Ensure you have all the relevant documents for a flawless Safari and a memorable experience.

4. Packing for Your Safari 

Be very keen when packing to strike a balance between comfort, practicality, and weight limits. If flying between parks, you must adhere to the weight range set by smaller planes. Here are a few more essential items to consider:

• Type of Clothing: Consider neutral-coloured clothing and avoid bright colours. Why? This helps you blend into the environment and avoid alarming the wildlife. Khaki clothes will do best.
• Binoculars and Cameras: This is a no-brainer. Don’t visit Kenya, or any park and leave without capturing the fun moments. Binoculars will also help you see distant wildlife.

• Comfortable Shoes:  If you plan to go on walking safaris, packing comfortable shoes is yet another essential.
• Sunglasses and Sunscreen: Your skin plays a critical role in protecting you, but you must also protect it. Oftentimes, our Kenyan sun is unforgiving and can be harsh sometimes, so ensure you carry your sunscreen with you.
• Medications: If you have any health issues, remember to pack your medication. You can also pack anti-malaria medication since anopheles mosquitoes in some parts of Kenya cause malaria. However, ensure you take only drugs advised by your doctor.

5. Kenya Safari Cost

Before you start your Kenyan safari, you need to calculate the costs to avoid exceeding your budget. The costs will vary depending on the type of safari, accommodation, and length of your trip. 

A simple safari could cost you anything from $150 per person per day, while a luxury safari could range from $500 per person. Then there are additional costs. These budgets involve meals, soft drinks, and game drives. Light aircraft might make the costs a little bit higher. So, come prepared to spend and enjoy Kenya.

Ready for the Best Kenya Safari Itinerary? 

A Kenya safari is an adventure worth undertaking. It doesn’t just offer you a chance to connect with nature, but also with our culture and people. Take time to plan carefully, research the places you will visit, and carry the relevant documentation.  Follow this guide to plan your dream adventure.

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