Kenya Safari Vacations

If it’s wildlife you’re after, Kenya is one of the best places on Earth to see animals in their natural habitat. With over 50 National Parks and Reserves, each with something unique to offer, there’s no shortage of opportunities for unforgettable encounters.

Ottilie, one of our Kenya specialists, says:

“Kenya is the kind of place that works for just about everyone – whether it’s your first safari or your fifth, it really ticks all the boxes. And the game drives are incredible, but there’s so much more to experience. One day you might be drifting over the Mara in a hot air balloon, the next riding alongside giraffes in Lewa or walking with fascinating Samburu guides who know every track and sound. And if you want something really different, sleep out in a fly camp – just you, a mosquito net, and the sounds of the bush. Whatever kind of adventure you're after, Kenya has it, and it also has incredible paradise beaches for the ultimate holiday!"

The Masai Mara is Kenya’s most iconic park, and with good reason. Between July and October, the Great Migration rolls in and vast herds of wildebeest and zebra flood the plains, closely followed by lions, cheetahs and other predators. It’s nature at its most dramatic and incredibly moving to witness.

However, we always recommend visiting at least two safari regions – Kenya’s landscapes are so varied, and each brings its own atmosphere, wildlife and rewards.

If you love elephants, Amboseli is hard to beat, famous for its herds wandering majestically beneath the towering Mount Kilimanjaro. If rhinos are on your list, Lewa offers a strong conservation record and excellent chances of sightings. Bird lovers are drawn to the Rift Valley lakes, where thousands of pink flamingos gather and over 450 species have been recorded.

For something a little different, head north to Samburu, where you'll have the chance to spot rare species like the Grevy’s zebra, gerenuk and Somali ostrich. It’s also one of the few places where you can go on camel treks through the bush.

Beyond the wildlife you'll find the people and culture just as special. Many guides come from local communities, including the Maasai and Samburu, and share not just deep knowledge of the land and animals, but also their traditions and stories. You can visit villages for a glimpse of everyday life, and if you’re travelling as a family, children especially love the chance to try ‘warrior skills’ – learning to track animals, make fire, and even identify different droppings (which always gets a giggle).

Clients often ask us about the difference between national parks and private conservancies. In short: the wildlife is the same, but the experience is different. For those wanting a more private experience, Kenya’s conservancies are a great alternative to the national parks. Places like Mara North and Naboisho border the Masai Mara and offer the same amazing wildlife, but with fewer vehicles, more freedom to explore, and a real sense of exclusivity.

And after all that adventure, Kenya’s Indian Ocean beaches are just a short flight away and the perfect place to relax. Expect white sands, turquoise seas, swaying palms, and, if you're still feeling active, some of the best diving and snorkelling in East Africa. Whether it’s Watamu, Diani, Lamu or Kilifi, you’ll find a beach to suit your mood - and a hammock to match.