Kenya

The Soul of Safari

At African Wildlife Plains, we believe a safari in Kenya is a pilgrimage to the very heart of safari itself. This is the landscape of the collective imagination, the archetypal wilderness that has defined the romance of African exploration for a century. To journey here is to answer a primal call and to step into the sweeping grasslands and acacia-dotted plains that are synonymous with the ultimate Kenya African safari.

The word “safari” was born here, meaning “to make a journey” in Swahili. Today, that journey is one of profound contrasts and spectacular beauty. It’s a land where the snow-capped peak of an equatorial mountain looms over arid plains and where the ancient rhythms of Maasai culture persist alongside one of the planet’s greatest concentrations of wildlife. Our expertly crafted Kenya safari holidays are designed to connect you to this authentic tradition, offering a seamless blend of classic adventure and intimate, luxury safari Kenya experiences.

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Top Regions and Attractions

The Kenya tours and safaris we design are a journey through a mosaic of world-renowned national reserves and pioneering private conservancies. Each region offers a unique window into the staggering biodiversity of East Africa. From the legendary plains of the Maasai Mara to the arid landscapes of the north, these are the stages upon which the continent’s greatest wildlife dramas unfold.

The Maasai Mara

The Theatre of Wildlife

The Kenya Maasai Mara is the quintessential African wilderness, a vast expanse of rolling savannah that hosts one of the densest wildlife populations on the planet. A Maasai Mara safari is the ultimate destination for big cat sightings and, from July to October, serves as the dramatic stage for the Great Wildebeest Migration, making it the undisputed crown jewel of any safari.

Amboseli National Park

Land of the Giants

Amboseli National Park is defined by one of Africa’s most breathtaking and iconic images: magnificent herds of large-tusked elephants roaming across dusty plains against the sublime backdrop of a snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro. It is globally recognized as one of the best places on Earth to observe these gentle giants up close in a stunningly atmospheric landscape.

The Laikipia Plateau

A New Frontier for Conservation

Laikipia represents the evolution of the African safari. This vast mosaic of private ranches and community conservancies is one of Africa’s most inspiring conservation success stories, a critical stronghold for endangered species like black rhino and African wild dogs. It offers a more exclusive and active safari, with options for walking, camel trekking, and horseback riding.

Samburu National Reserve

Treasures of the Arid North

In Kenya’s rugged, semi-arid north lies Samburu, a place of stark and dramatic beauty. It is the premier destination to witness the “Samburu Special Five”—rare and remarkable species adapted to this arid environment, including the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and the elegant, long-necked gerenuk.

Kenya Wildlife

The Great Migration & More

A safari in Kenya is your front-row seat to one of the most awe-inspiring wildlife spectacles on Earth. While the Great Migration in Kenya is a major draw, the sheer diversity and abundance of animals year-round make every day on a Maasai Mara safari an extraordinary experience. Our guides are experts at finding not just the Big Five, but all the fascinating creatures that make these ecosystems thrive.

Wildebeest & Zebra

Witness over a million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebra thunder across the plains during their annual migration.

Big Cats

The Maasai Mara is legendary for its healthy populations of lion, leopard, and cheetah, offering some of the best big cat viewing anywhere in Africa.

Elephant

Marvel at the giant herds of Amboseli, where some of Africa’s last great “tuskers” (elephants with enormous tusks) still roam.

Black Rhino

Laikipia’s conservancies provide a crucial sanctuary for the critically endangered black rhino, and sightings here are a true conservation triumph.

Giraffe

Kenya is home to several distinct species, including the iconic Reticulated giraffe in the north and the Maasai giraffe in the south.

Flamingo

The alkaline lakes of the Great Rift Valley, like Nakuru and Bogoria, often host a spectacular sea of pink as thousands of flamingos gather to feed.

At a Glance

Capital City

Nairobi

Official Language

Swahili, English

Currency

Kenyan Shilling (KES)

Population

Approx. 55 million

Key Safari Airports

Jomo Kenyatta Intl (NBO), Wilson Airport (WIL), Mombasa (MBA)

Fascinating Facts

The Original "Safari"

The word “safari” was born here, coming from the Swahili word for “journey.”

The Great Rift Valley

This immense geological trench, visible from space, cuts right through the country, creating stunning escarpments and lakes.

Cultural Diversity

Kenya is home to more than 40 distinct ethnic groups, each with its own unique language and traditions.

Travel Essentials

Visas

Most visitors are required to obtain an electronic visa (e-visa) online in advance of their travel. We recommend applying well ahead of your departure date.

Health

A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be required. Malaria is a risk in certain areas, so please consult a travel medical professional for advice on prophylaxis.

Luggage

For internal flights on small aircraft to safari destinations like the Maasai Mara, strict luggage limits of 15kg (33 lbs) per person in soft-sided bags apply.

Kenya Safaris

Journeys Through an Icon

We have crafted a selection of Maasai Mara packages and longer itineraries that showcase the very best of this iconic destination. Browse our recommended Kenya luxury safari packages below or contact our experts to design a custom Kenya safari itinerary just for you.

Aerial Safari Journey Across Kenya’s Wilderness

Signature Kenya Safari – Chyulu Hills, Masai Mara & Samburu

Kenya Family Holiday: Big Five Encounters, Culture & Beach Bliss

Activities & Experiences

The classic game drive is just the beginning. The safari trips in Kenya we design are rich with diverse experiences, making our Kenya tours and safaris unforgettable.

Hot Air Ballooning

Gently float over the Maasai Mara at sunrise for a breathtaking, panoramic view of the plains and the animals below – a truly magical experience.

Walking & Camel Safaris

In the private conservancies of Laikipia and the Mara, leave the vehicle behind to connect with the bush on a guided walking safari or a traditional camel-back adventure.

Cultural Encounters

We can arrange respectful and authentic visits to Maasai or Samburu communities, offering a genuine insight into the ancient traditions of the people who call this land home.

Best Time to Visit

Our experts are often asked, “what is the best time for a safari in Kenya?” The answer depends on what you want to experience, as Kenya is a fantastic year-round destination.

The Great Migration

June - October

This is the peak dry season. The weather is pleasant and wildlife is easy to spot. Most importantly, this is when the Great Migration in Kenya herds are in the Maasai Mara, offering the chance to witness dramatic river crossings. This is the best time for a classic safari.

The "Green Seasons"

Nov, Apr - May

After the “short” and “long” rains, the landscape is stunningly green, the skies are clear, and there are fewer visitors. This is the calving season, so you’ll see many baby animals. It’s a paradise for photographers and birdwatchers.

General Game Viewing

Jan - March

This is a wonderful, dry period between the rainy seasons. While the main migration herds are in Tanzania, the Maasai Mara and other parks still boast a huge density of resident wildlife, including all the big cats, making for a superb safari experience.

FAQ

What is the difference between a Reserve and a private Conservancy?

National Reserves, like the Maasai Mara, are public lands. The adjacent private conservancies are community-owned lands that partner with safari operators. We believe staying in a conservancy offers the best safari in Kenya experience, with fewer vehicles and exclusive activities like night drives and walking safaris.

Can I combine a Kenya and Tanzania safari?

Yes, absolutely. A combined Kenya and Tanzania safari is one of the most popular and comprehensive East African journeys, allowing you to follow the Great Migration from the Serengeti to the Mara. We specialize in crafting seamless cross-border itineraries.

How much does a Kenya safari cost?

The Kenya safari cost can vary widely based on the level of comfort, exclusivity, and season. We specialize in crafting journeys that provide exceptional value, from comfortable adventure lodges to the most exclusive luxury safari Kenya camps. Our experts can design a trip to suit your specific budget.

What is the Great Migration?

The Great Migration is the continuous, year-long circular movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebra and gazelle through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing. The most dramatic phase in Kenya is typically from July to October when the herds cross the Mara River.