Helpful Tips for Your Kenya Safari Tour

Kenya’s diverse landscapes, multicultural society, and longevity of traditional ways of life make it a top choice for travelers seeking a rich Africa experience. From the bustling metropolis of Nairobi to the towering snow capped slopes of Mount Kenya to stunning scenery and wildlife in the bush to the stunning shorelines of the Swahili Coast, Kenya has a plenitude to offer. This country has captured the imaginations of dreamers around the world, making it top the bucket lists of many travelers. Global Basecamps is here to turn that dream into a reality, helping you plan a Kenya Safari tour that is sure to provide memories for a lifetime.

When to Go

Kenya provides a wonderful travel experience year-round, however there are certain times of year that are more ideal to visit than others. Because Kenya is located close to the equator, its climate is often warm and pleasant with average temperatures around 82 F with temperatures ranging a little higher on the coast. Rather than experience the traditional four seasons, the year in Kenya is divided into dry and rainy seasons.

The best time to go to Kenya is during one of the dry seasons: June through October or January to February. During these times, the temperatures are cooler, wildlife is easier to spot , rain is minimal, and the skies are much more clear and blue.

However, if you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the famed Great Migration, you’ll need to visit sometime between August and November to catch the mass herds of animals.

What to Do

Immerse Yourself in Conservation Efforts

Every year, the famous Lewa Borana Wildlife Conservancy pulls back the curtain and allows guests to actively participate in their invaluable wildlife conservation efforts. You can be part of the ranger team helping to track, locate and count game species for the annual Big 5 wildlife census. This is an excellent opportunity to take action behind the scenes and have a truly unique and meaningful safari experience. Check out our Group Tour here to learn about this year’s dates.

Visit a Local Community

Kenya is known as a land of vast diversity in landscapes, biodiversity and people. A visit to Kenya will offer travelers the opportunity to engage with some of Kenya’s many indigenous peoples and learn from their traditional wisdom. One of the most widely-known of the country’s indigenous peoples is the Massai. These tall, strong Nilotic people are noble and proud, largely continuing in their customary ways of life and dwelling in traditional villages called “bomas”. Their role in the tourism industry is widespread , and many Kenya Safari tours will include a visit to one of their communities as an element of cultural tourism.

Witness the Great Migration

See this spectacular natural phenomenon for yourself in Kenya’s Massai Mara park. Every year between July and October, travelers will have the opportunity to get a glimpse of the world’s largest migration of wildlife during their safari. More than 2 million animals, including wildebeest, zebra, and Thompson’s gazelle, make the trek from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to Kenya’s Maasai Mara. It’s a once in a lifetime experience to see mother nature in all her glory.

Explore the Maasai Market

Round-out your Kenya Tour with a trip to Nairobi’s Maasai Market. There, you’ll find a plethora of beautiful artisinay goods from colorful woven baskets to vibrant dyed fabrics. It’s an excellent place to pick out some memorabilia from your trip while also immersing yourself in the more urban side of this East African country.

Other Kenya Safari Tour Tips

Kenyan Cuisine

Kenyan food is known for its bold flavors mixed with basic ingredients. We recommended trying the following traditional dishes during your Kenya Safari Tour:
Irio ( mashed peas and potato mix), Ugali (maize meal), Githeri (beans and corn), Wali wa Nazi ( coconut rice), Kenyan Pilau ( spiced rice ).

Money Matters

The official currency for Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling. Shilling notes are available in the denominations of 1000, 500, 200, and 100. While US Dollars are widely accepted Shillings can be helpful to have for bartering in local markets or when in remote areas. Airports such as Mombasi or Nairobi have 24/7 exchange services.

Entry and Exit Reqirements

Visas are required for U.S. citizens traveling to Kenya. A passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond visa issuance and/or date of entry, and at least two blank visa pages are required. Kenyan Immigration has instituted a strict visa policy whereby all visitors are strongly encouraged to obtain visas using an online system.

Still not sure where to start? Check out our Free Guide to Choosing the Right Safari for some inspiration and help.