Top Tips for Booking Safari in Kenya: Plan the Perfect Wildlife Adventure
Booking a safari in Kenya is your gateway to an unforgettable wildlife adventure. In this guide, we’ll cover essential tips for choosing the best destinations, selecting the right tour package, understanding tour price, and timing your visit for optimal wildlife viewing. Let’s dive in and make your dreams of booking a safari in Kenya Africa a reality!
How to Book Our Masai Mara National Reserve & Lake Nakuru National Park Safari Tour
Are you looking to book a tour to Kenya’s premier parks? Book our Kenya safari tours now via +254-748-258-880. We are also available through email at james@ajkenyasafaris.com or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com.
Our Most Booked Safari Packages and Tours
Our Most Booked Kenya Safari Packages 2025 | Price Per Adult Sharing | The Detailed Itinerary |
1-Day Nairobi National Park & Giraffe Center Tour | From USD 27 | |
3 Days Masai Mara Safari | From USD 1475 | |
4 Days Masai Mara Safari | From USD 1715 | |
7 Days Safari in Kenya | From USD 4283 | |
15 Days Kenya & Tanzania Safari | From USD 6235 |
Key Takeaways of Kenya Safaris
Choose the right safari tour destination, like the Masai Mara for wildlife migration, Lake Nakuru National Park for birdwatching, Tsavo East for elephants, Amboseli to Mt. Kilimanjaro or Lake Naivasha for boat rides, to maximize your experience!
Select a safari tour package that fits your budget—options range from exciting budget Kenya safaris to luxurious getaways tailored for all types of travelers! In between you find mid-range safari tours that include using a safari vehicle.
Timing is everything! Plan your trip to this country and this side of the world between June and Oct for optimal wildlife viewing, especially during the spectacular wildebeest migration!
Choosing Your Safari Destination
The first step in planning your safari tour in Kenya involves selecting the right destination to explore. With a clear goal, you can choose the best locations and experiences for your trip to Africa’s trip. The country boasts several world-renowned national parks and reserves, each providing unique wildlife watching opportunities and landscapes. Some of the common ones are Masai Mara & Samburu National Reserves, Nairobi, Tsavo East, & Tsavo West National Parks, Laikipia plateau, and others.
The Masai Mara National Reserve is perhaps the most famous tour destination in Nairobi Kenya, known for its annual wildebeest migration. This spectacular event attracts not only millions of wildebeests but also the predators that follow them, making Masai Mara a prime spot for viewing wildlife. If witnessing this natural wonder is on your bucket list, the Masai Mara safari is a must book tour.
Lake Nakuru National Park, on the other hand, is a bird lover’s paradise. With over 400 bird species, including flamingos and pelicans, it offers stunning avian spectacles alongside the Great Rift Valley escarpment.
For those interested in stunning landscapes, Tsavo East & West National Parks provides a mix of scenic hills, lava flows, and the famous Mzima Springs, home to crocodiles and hippos. Meanwhile, Amboseli National Park is renowned for its large herds of elephants and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro of Tanzania. Like South Africa, Amboseli is ideal for elephants and is ideal for visiting during the high season, low season, dry and heavy rains season, and all year round.
Selecting the Right Safari Package
Selecting the right tour package ensures you get the experience you desire. Kenya safari packages range from budget to luxury options, catering to different traveler preferences and budgets. Your travel style will influence accommodation and activity choices, tailoring your safari experience to your needs.
Next, we’ll explore the various types of tour packages available, from budget-friendly options to luxurious experiences. Whether you aim to save money or indulge in high-end amenities, there’s a Kenya safari package for you.
Budget Safaris
For those traveling on a tight budget, Kenya offers plenty of affordable safari options that still provide quality wildlife experiences. Budget tours typically include shared vehicles and basic accommodations, keeping the tour price low while preserving the thrill of wildlife viewing. Many budget tours feature group travel, significantly reducing expenses while allowing you to enjoy Kenya’s national parks.
These budget-friendly options retain the essence of a safari adventure, providing enriching experiences with wild animals and stunning landscapes. Accommodations during the trip may include a tented camp or basic lodge, focusing on incredible wildlife encounters and the beauty of the African savannah.
Mid-Range Safaris
Mid-range tours provide a blend of comfort and affordability, making them popular among travelers. These packages typically include comfortable accommodations and guided tours, balancing luxury and cost. Whether staying in lodges or tented camps, you’ll find essential amenities and greater comfort than budget options.
Mid-range Kenya safari tours often include guided game drives, providing expert knowledge to enhance your wildlife viewing experience. This level of safari package is ideal for those seeking more comfort and convenience without breaking the bank.
Expect all meals during your safari, sleep in a great camp or lodge, transport in a safari vehicle, and game drives in reserves and parks.
Luxury Safaris
For an unforgettable safari experience, luxury packages are ideal. These high-end tours offer exclusive accommodations and premium services, ensuring a lavish wildlife adventure. Tour price can range from $600 to over $1,500 per person per day, depending on the amenities.
Luxury tours typically include gourmet meals, private guides, and exclusive access to prime wildlife watching areas. Expect personalized services and high-end amenities to make your stay comfortable and memorable at the camp or lodge.
Understanding Safari Costs
Understanding safari costs helps in planning your budget effectively. A typical private safari in Kenya starts around $300 per person per day, covering park fees, accommodation, and safari vehicle costs. Shared group tours are more affordable, starting at approximately $180 per person per day.
Accommodation costs, generally including full board dining, make up roughly 30% of total safari expenses. Park fees also account for about 30% of your total cost, with significant increases expected in 2024. Having a budget estimate is crucial, as safari logistics can greatly impact overall costs.
Best Times to Visit Kenya/Africa for a Safari
Timing is crucial for planning your safari in Kenya. The ideal period is from June or July to October, coinciding with the dry season. During this time, animals are more visible as they gather around water sources, providing excellent wildlife watching opportunities. You will find animals like giraffe, lion, rhino, zebra, elephant, buffalo, big cats, and birds at the water sources.
Early September is particularly recommended for witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Masai Mara National Reserve. Traveling during the off-peak season can also reduce costs while still offering good wildlife watching.
Types of Safari Experiences
Kenya offers diverse safari experiences to suit different interests and preferences. Luxury safaris feature high-end lodges and personalized services, ensuring a lavish experience. High-end packages may include unique activities like hot air balloon rides, providing extraordinary views of wildlife and landscapes during an east african safari.
Game drives are the primary method for big game viewing in Kenya, typically conducted in open or closed 4×4 vehicles. Other experiences include walking safaris, ranging from short nature walks to multi-day treks, and water-based safaris like boat safari on lakes.
Cultural experiences enable visitors to engage with local tribes and communities, adding a rich cultural dimension to the safari.
Booking Tips and Considerations
Booking a safari involves several important considerations. The choice of safari company can heavily affect costs, with local operators often providing better value than international travel agents. Choosing a reliable travel agent can enhance your planning experience with unbiased advice.
Safari tours typically use pop-up top 4×4 Land Cruiser Jeeps for comfortable wildlife watching. A safari tour can enhance the experience, as driver guides can communicate in several languages, including English, German, French, Italian, and Spanish, ensuring a better guest experience.
Make sure to have essential travel documents, such as your passport and vaccination records, for a smooth safari experience.
Special Offers and Discounts
Taking advantage of special offers and discounts can make your safari more affordable. Bountiful tours is currently offering discounts of up to 50% for holidays in 2024. Many lodges in the Masai Mara offer promotions like ‘Stay 3 pay 2’ for specific dates.
Some camps provide complimentary return flights when booking a three-night stay, and honeymoon packages may include discounts for the bride or free stays, depending on the duration of the booking. Check the terms, as special offers may not be combined with other discounts.
Preparing for Your Safari Adventure
Proper preparation is key to enjoying your tour adventure. Using insect repellent, particularly those containing DEET, protects against mosquitoes and other biting insects. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and trousers can protect you from sunburn and insect bites while on safari.
A wide-brimmed hat and staying hydrated are essential for sun protection and overall well-being. Packing light with soft-sided luggage is recommended to accommodate weight limits on safari vehicles and small planes. Remember to bring high-quality camera gear to capture incredible wildlife moments and landscapes.
Summary & FAQs of Safari Tour in Kenya
In summary, planning the perfect safari in Kenya involves selecting the right destination, choosing the appropriate safari package, and understanding the costs involved. Timing your visit during the dry season enhances wildlife watching opportunities, and various types of safari experiences cater to different interests.
Remember to take advantage of special offers and prepare adequately for your adventure. With these tips, you’re well on your way to an unforgettable wildlife experience in Kenya. Book your safari today and embark on a journey that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
1. What is the best time to visit Kenya for a safari?
The best time to visit Kenya for an unforgettable safari experience is from June to October! This is when the dry season brings excellent landscape and wildlife watching opportunities. The country is generally dry and is usually the peak of Masai Mara safari/tour from Nairobi.
2. What are the main differences between budget, mid-range, and luxury safaris?
The main differences are thrilling! Budget tours feature shared vehicles and simple lodgings, while mid-range safaris strike a perfect balance of comfort and cost. Luxury safaris take it up a notch with exclusive accommodations and top-notch services!
3. How much does a typical private safari in Kenya cost?
A typical private safari in Kenya usually starts at just $300 per person per day, which includes park fees, accommodation, and vehicle costs! What a fantastic adventure awaits! A Masai Mara safari in the high end tented camps can go for over USD 500 per night with transport in open-sided vehicles.
4. Are there special offers available for Kenya safaris?
Absolutely, you can find amazing special offers for Kenya safaris, including discounts and even complimentary return flights! It’s a fantastic time to plan your adventure to this country and enjoy the sheer number of wildlife in the parks such as Nairobi, Masai Mara, Tsavo and more.
5. What should I pack for a tour in Kenya?
Pack insect repellent, long-sleeved shirts and trousers, a wide-brimmed hat, and a reusable water bottle to stay comfortable and protected! Don’t forget your high-quality camera gear and neutral-colored clothing to capture every breathtaking moment!
6. How many days should I play for a Masai Mara safari?
A Masai Mara safari tour can range from as few as 2 days to as many as over a week. For the best Masai Mara safari tour, consider booking at least 3 days. This tour to Masai Mara from Nairobi will ensure you use a safari vehicle for transport inside of aircraft, which is the case for a 2 days Mara safari from Nairobi.
7. How far is Nairobi from Masai Mara?
Whether coming from the UK, US, South Africa, or other parts of the world, you will land at JKIA in Nairobi. From Nairobi, you can take a short flight to Mara or use a vehicle for transfer. Nairobi to Mara is about 300 km, or a 6 hours drive. Getting to Mara from Nairobi during your tour using a vehicle provides you with the opportunity to explore the Great Rift Valley and other attractions in this side of Africa. Always consult your tour operator on the best way to get to Mara; they answer questions you might have.