Kenya Safaris & Tours

The best time for safari in Kenya is during the dry season months, from June to October, when vegetation is sparse, making wildlife easier to see during game drives and walking safaris.

If seeing the Great Migration is on your wishlist, then July through October is an ideal time to witness millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle traversing the plains of the Masai Mara. During these months, the odds of witnessing predators are high as the migration passes through. The weather is also relatively mild, with cooler nights and mornings.

Late October to early June can also be an excellent time for safari. You can avoid the crowds, and the landscape is lush and green. Overall, Kenya offers superb safaris at any time of the year, and you can find the right time for your trip in our guide on the best time to visit Kenya.

Kenya is home to some of Africa's most iconic safari destinations. From the rolling grasslands of the Masai Mara to the savannas of Amboseli National Park, here are the top places to visit in Kenya for an unforgettable safari experience:

• Masai Mara National Reserve: Famous for the Great Migration and excellent chances of seeing the Big Five, the Mara offers boundless wildlife on picturesque grassland plains and exciting safari experiences.
• Amboseli National Park: Known for big game and views of Mount Kilimanjaro, you can see elephants and lions with Africa's highest freestanding mountain as a backdrop to your unforgettable adventures.
• Lake Nakuru National Park: As Kenya’s premier bird watcher's paradise, with flamingos and over 450 species of birds, Lake Nakuru is a marvelous destination for unique safari experiences and is also home to rhinos, lions, leopards, and more.

For more ideas on where to go in Kenya beyond the popular safari spots, explore our guide on the destinations to visit in Kenya beyond a safari.

Masai Mara is located in southwest Kenya and is a continuation of the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. It is one of Kenya's most famous and most visited safari destinations, known for its exceptional population of lions, cheetahs, and the great migration.

To experience the Masai Mara, enjoy early morning and late afternoon game drives with knowledgeable safari guides to maximize your wildlife sightings. A hot air balloon ride over the Mara offers a unique perspective of the savanna and animals. Be sure to venture out into the grasslands and explore along the Mara and Talek rivers.

A once-in-a-lifetime experience is witnessing the Great Migration in Kenya first-hand between July and October. The Masai Mara offers pristine African wilderness, iconic safari wildlife, and endless scenic vistas.

Kenya offers a wealth of safari experiences showcasing the country's incredible wildlife and culture. Here are some of the top things to do in Kenya during your trip:

• See the Great Migration river crossing in the Masai Mara from July to October
• Take a hot air balloon ride over the Masai Mara at dawn to see spectacular views of the savanna
• Go on a classic daytime game drive to spot the Big Five and other wildlife
• Enjoy sunset and sunrise game drives when animals are most active
• Visit a Maasai village to learn about this iconic tribe's customs and way of life

The thrill of seeing iconic African wildlife in their natural habitat is unmatched. In Kenya, prepare to be stunned by massive elephants foraging through the bush, the speed of cheetahs on the hunt, and the roar of lions echoing across the plains. Some of the incredible animals to see in Kenya include:

• Lion
• Elephant
• Giraffe
• Leopard
• Wildebeest
• Cheetah
• Buffalo
• Hippo
• Rhino
• Wild dog
• Zebra
• Eland

A safari in Kenya often involves early morning game drives and evenings spent around a campfire under the stars. Be prepared for your adventures by packing the right gear for an African safari over and above your typical packing list. Here are some of our recommendations:

• Neutral, light-colored clothing
• Lightweight, waterproof rain jacket
• Long pants for bush walks
• Hiking boots or walking shoes
• Daypack
• Camera with a zoom lens and extra memory cards
• Binoculars
• Insect repellent
• UV protection, including but not limited to sunscreen, hats, lip balm, and sunglasses

A safari in Kenya is safe.

The national parks and private conservancies have well-trained rangers who ensure tourists follow rules for safe viewing. While petty theft is a possibility, it is uncommon on a Kenya safari when staying at reputable camps and lodges within the protected reserves.

Overall, Kenya offers the excitement of a safari adventure with minimal safety concerns. Following park regulations and your guide’s instructions provides peace of mind to focus on the unparalleled experience.

With endless highlights, designing the best Kenya safari itinerary depends on your interests and the experience you desire. From abundant wildlife to diverse ecosystems, here are some popular safari route ideas to spark inspiration:

• For an incredible 9-day luxury safari adventure showcasing Kenya's most renowned national parks and conservancies, consider our Kenya Favorites: 9-Day Safari in Amboseli, Ol Pejeta and Masai Mara.
• Our 12-Day Best of Kenya Safari grand tour takes you to Kenya's top wildlife havens and most stunning landscapes for an unforgettable, comprehensive safari experience.
• Explore the best of Kenya in style on a glamorous safari experience with our Exclusive Kenya Safari: Luxury Adventure in 10 Days.

Find more information and inspiration in our Kenya safari guide.