Kenya holidays: Masai Mara, Amboseli, Nairobi and the coast
The Great Migration in the Masai Mara, elephants in front of Kilimanjaro in Amboseli and white beaches on the Indian Ocean. Kenya is the classic safari, and easy to pair with a beach break.
Masai Mara
Photo: Jorge Tung / Unsplash
Kenya at a glance
It is six in the morning and the jeep is parked on the plains of the Masai Mara. In front of you hundreds of wildebeest are crossing the river while the crocodiles wait. Kenya is the country that made safari a holiday for everyone, and it is still one of the best places in the world to see big game.
It sits on the equator in East Africa. The currency is the Kenyan shilling, and all visitors must apply for an electronic travel authorisation (eTA) before travelling. For more of the continent, see our Africa travel guide.
How to plan your trip
The Masai Mara, for the migration
Africa's best-known reserve. From July to October, wildebeest and zebra cross over from the Serengeti in Tanzania. Read more in our Masai Mara safari guide.
Amboseli, for elephants and Kilimanjaro
Large elephant herds with Africa's highest mountain behind them. The mountain is in Tanzania, but the view is best from here.
Laikipia and Samburu, for calm and rare species
Private conservancies with rhinos, wild dogs and few vehicles. Samburu has species you will not see further south, such as Grévy's zebra.
Nairobi, to start and finish
The Giraffe Centre, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage and a national park with skyscrapers on the horizon.
The coast: Diani, Watamu and Lamu
White beaches on the Indian Ocean. Lamu's old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Amboseli
Photo: Nk Ni / Unsplash
When to go
July to October: dry season and the migration in the Masai Mara. Peak season.
January and February: dry, warm and good for both safari and beach.
April and May: the long rains. Many lodges cut prices or close.
Good to know
Apply for your eTA well before you travel.
See a doctor about malaria and vaccinations before you go.
Light aircraft between Nairobi and the reserves save hours on rough roads.
Kenya Airways and British Airways fly direct from London to Nairobi.
Where to stay
Giraffe Manor in Nairobi has three Michelin Keys, and the giraffes put their heads through the window at breakfast. In the Masai Mara, Angama Mara, Mahali Mzuri and Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp are among the best. A dedicated Kenya hotel guide is on the way. To compare, see our Tanzania safari guide.
Frequently asked questions about Kenya
When is the best time for a safari in Kenya?
July to October for the migration, January and February for dry weather and fewer visitors.
How long should I spend in Kenya?
Ten days cover the Masai Mara, one more reserve and a few days on the coast.
Do I need a visa for Kenya?
All visitors must apply for an electronic travel authorisation (eTA) before travel. Check the current rules.
Can I combine Kenya and Zanzibar?
Yes. Flights from Nairobi to Zanzibar are short, and it is a popular combination.