Kenya is rich in natural attractions. From its pristine beaches & coral reefs to its game reserves offering authentic safaris. This is where African wildlife safaris began.
The capital is Nairobi and is usually the starting point for visitors. The international airport is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). Most of the safari flights depart from the smaller Wilson Airport; so transfers need to be arranged. It is usually best to arrive early morning if you want to embark on your safari on the first day. If not, you may need to overnight in Nairobi. Either on the way to your safari or at the end of the itinerary.
Tsavo National Park has a beautiful landscape and the proximity to the coast makes it a popular safari...
Mountain climbing is also a big draw card to Kenya. Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya and the second highest in Africa. Actually, Mount Kenya is a more difficult climb than its neighbor, Kilimanjaro. In addition, it is not as busy. So if you are fit and want a quieter climb; Mount Kenya is the best choice.
Most people want to holiday in Kenya to witness the annual wildebeest migration from around July until October. The timing depends on the rains in the Masai Mara. Zebras and gazelle also migrate with the wildebeest. This is a bucket list safari for most and it is so well worth seeing.
Wildebeest migration
Kenya Birding
Kenya is famous as one of the top places in the world to view the most remarkable range of avi-fauna. It’s a ‘birder’s paradise’ in every way.
No matter what your interests are, there will be something to please everyone. From the world’s largest bird (the ostrich) to the world’s most numerous bird (the red-billed quelea). Africa’s heaviest flying bird (the Kori bustard) to the dazzling array of tiny sunbirds that flit between the flower blossoms. Africa’s largest raptor (the martial eagle) to its smallest (the African pygmy falcon). As well as millions of filter feeding flamingos to the intricate nest builders (the weavers). There’s no end to the assortment of birds that call Kenya ‘home’.
Many factors combine to make the country favorable to bird life. The equatorial climate, a diverse range of habitats (from wetlands to moorlands, tropical rain forests to deserts, and mangroves to mountains), unique geographical features (from The Great Rift Valley to chains of ancient volcanoes), and an abundance of food resources for migratory birds.
Secretary birdYellow-bill Stork
Kenya beach holidays
When people think of Kenya, they usually picture the savannas of the Maasai Mara or elephants framed by Mount Kilimanjaro. But Kenya’s coast along the warm Indian Ocean is easily one of Africa’s best-kept secrets. With powdery white sands, coral reefs, and vibrant Swahili culture.
The beauty of a Kenyan beach holiday is its diversity. You can easily do a “Safari and Beach” combo. Spending a few days tracking the Big Five and the next morning lounging under a palm tree.
Mombasa is the gateway to Kenya’s beaches. It boasts endless enchanting beaches. One of them well worth noting is Nyali Beach. A stunning, white sand stretch on the Indian Ocean. It is on the mainland just north of Mombasa Island. This makes it easily accessible and a popular destination for both local and international tourists. Nyali Beach is perfect for swimming, surfing, and beach strolls. Nearby, the Mombasa Marine National Park beckons for snorkeling and diving adventures. This slice of Kenya beach paradise will hit the sweet spot for everyone. Couples seeking romance, solo travelers craving tranquillity, or family time frolics.
Every pocket of Kenya’s 480km coastline has a completely distinct personality:
Best beaches in Kenya
Best Known For
Vibe
Diani Beach (South Coast)
Soft, 17km long white sands. World class kite surfing & diving. Top pick for honeymooners.
Classic paradise, lively but spacious.
Watamu (North Coast)
Marine biodiversity (green turtles, dolphins). Distinct Italian food influence.
Eco-centric, laid back, tranquil.
Malindi (North Coast)
Vibrant history (Vasco da Gama pillars). Deep sea fishing, and excellent coral reefs.
Historic, bustling, cultural blend.
Lamu Island (Far North)
UNESCO-listed Swahili stone town, with zero cars (only donkeys). Sunset dhow sailing.
Deeply cultural, slow travel, romantic.
Instead of modern speedboats, take a cruise on a classic Swahili dhow. The crew will catch fresh fish or crab and grill it right on the deck for lunch.
Watamu Marine National Park and the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Reserve (near Wasini Island in the south) offer incredible snorkeling. You’ll regularly swim alongside green sea turtles, pods of dolphins. And if you visit between October and February, whale sharks.
Wander through Mombasa’s 16th century Fort Jesus or the car-free alleys of Lamu Old Town to experience a culture shaped by centuries of African, Arabian, and Portuguese trade.
When to visit Kenya?
The country is divided into two almost equal parts of the equator. Therefore the temperatures differ depending on where you are traveling to. Generally, it can be said that it is sunny; only moderately wet and warm. The ‘rainy season’ is between March and May and also between November and December. Obviously the higher the altitude, the colder it gets. The summer is from December to March and the winter is from July to August.
The wildebeest migration in Kenya usually occurs between July and October.
The coastal areas experience more constant warm temperatures. But the humidity is less oppressive; than one might imagine due to the regular sea breezes. The absolute best months for a Kenyan beach holiday are from January to March and July to October. The sea is crystal clear, and the weather is beautifully warm. Avoid late April to June, which is the local “long rains” season.
What to wear for your Kenyan safari?
On safari the emphasis should be on comfort. Lightweight cotton clothing for the daytime is best. If you are doing a safari with walking, khaki or green colored clothing is preferable. The evenings and early mornings can be cool at higher altitudes. Therefore we recommend lightweight jackets, warm sweaters, and long sleeved shirts. Long sleeves also are useful to prevent mosquito bites in the evenings/early mornings.
Photography
Bring a dust proof bag for cameras & accessories. Please get consent from the Maasai before taking their photo as they demand a fee!
Is Kenya safe?
Generally, Kenya is a friendly country and very safe. However; recent safety concerns from isolated incidences mean that some of our clients don’t want to stay in central Nairobi or central Mombasa. While most of these areas are safe; we understand your concerns. Therefore we can arrange for you to stay out of the city center. Such as Giraffe Manor; where inquisitive giraffes are a common site. Sticking their heads in everywhere!
Breakfast with giraffe in Nairobi at Giraffe Manor
Nairobi National Park is the ONLY national park in a capital city in the world. And not far from the airport; therefore, another great alternative. The National Park boasts a wide diversity of wildlife including lions and rhinos. So why not start your safari from the moment you touchdown?
Kenya vacations tie in well with other Eastern African countries. For example; visiting the Gorillas in Uganda, and then safari and beach vacations. It is bordered by Uganda in the west; Sudan in the northwest, Ethiopia in the north, Somalia in the east; Tanzania in the south, and the Indian Ocean in the southeast.
Kenya Beach or Safari Tour
Kenya is a must visit destination for an excellent safari. Especially in the migration season (between July and October). There are many excellent national parks with an abundance of game. Why not add on a Kenyan beach holiday so you can rest before or after your safari?
Visit our Kenya Tour page or click on the blue box below to quickly see some ideas for your Kenya safari.
We are still working on this and have many more Kenyan safaris available if you get in touch with us.
The SkySafari Kenya is an 8 or 10 day flying safari that delivers maximum variety and adventure in...
Kenya Accommodation
See our Kenya accommodation listings, or use the map below. For example where it says ‘Search by Location’, type in masai mara and click search. If it comes up with the option to put Kenya in, this is important. For example, Laikipia, will be Laikipia, Kenya.
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