Kenya itineraries
Wondering when to go?

In Kenya you will discover a diverse, modern, yet ancient land. A safari in Kenya encompasses more than just game viewing. Kenya is a land not only of magnificent wildlife but of amazing landscapes, beautiful lakes, a tropical coastline, strong ethnic traditions, hospitality and artistry.

Greetings from Kenya

“Jambo Kaaribu,” soft, warm voices greet you in Swahili everywhere in this friendly country. Kenya is known world over for its hospitality. As the country is comprised of many distinct regions, Kenya delivers a stunning range of geographical configurations, habitats and unique species. From fertile forests, seemingly endless plains, freshwater lakes and the spectacle of twice-yearly wildebeest and zebra migrations, Kenya amazes first-time and repeat visitors alike.

Highlights of Kenya
Aberdares National Park

This small reserve (elevation 7,000 feet) is comprised mostly of forest and much of the Aberdares mountain range lies within its borders. The park is well known for sightings of elephant, rhino, hyena, baboon, buffalo, lion, and several varieties of antelope, genet cat and bushbabies. The excitement begins at sunset, as the animals venture to the floodlit salt licks and watering holes.

Amboseli National Park

In the heart of Masai land, this park offers extraordinary views of Mount Kilimanjaro, only 30 miles away in Tanzania. Best known for its large elephant population, baboon, herds of buffalo, giraffe, ostrich, lion, cheetah and impala are sighted here as well. The swamps provide superb habitats for many species of birds.

Lake Baringo

This freshwater lake is the northernmost lake in Kenya’s Rift Valley. Many activities are water-oriented and include boat trips and fishing. Camelback rides are available, as is the chance to arrange a visit with members of the Njemp tribe. On the island in the middle of the lake, you’ll find gushing hot sulfur springs surrounded by exquisite desert roses.

Nakuru National Park

This region in Botswana consists of two major basins that are relics of a massive lake and swampland that existed between about 2 million and 40,000 years ago. During the summer months (November to April) the focus is on the thousands of zebra that migrate from the Boteti River and Makgadikgadi Pans National Park immediately to the west. During these months, the pans fill with water and attract numerous species of birds from flamingos to wattled cranes and pelicans. During the dry or winter months, the migrations move westward to the water available in the Boteti River but many desert-adapted creatures remain resident.

Masai Mara National Park

The most famous of Kenya’s national parks, the Masai Mara caps of northern end of the Serengeti Plain. The Mara River, a natural boundary between Kenya and Tanzania, sets the stage for the twice-yearly spectacle of wildebeest and zebra herds. Lions reside in large prides, and the ability to observe them at close range astonishes most first-time visitors. Early morning balloon rides are available over the seemingly endless plains, followed by a champagne brunch and game drive.

Mount Kenya

At 17,058 feet, Mount Kenya is a dramatic backdrop for the manicured lawns and beautiful gardens of the Mount Kenya Safari Club. A stop here provides a rest and an opportunity to luxuriate at the health club. Tennis, golf, horseback riding and swimming are available. On the premises is a wonderful animal orphanage that allows close contact with several species.

Samburu National Reserve

Unique to this arid landscape are gerenuk, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra and the dik-dik. Crocodiles line the banks of the Ewaso Ngiro River, where families of hippo have recently established residency. Elephant can be sighted, as well as leopard, lion, oryx and cheetah. In addition, there are plentiful herds of various antelope, including Grant’s and Thompson’s gazelles.

Tsavo West National Park

Extensive semi-arid plains dominate this park and more than 60 species of mammals have been sighted here, including elephant and buffalo. Mzima Springs, a geological wonder of water seeping through volcanic rock to form clear pools lushly surrounded with greenery, is the highlight of the park. Here you can walk down to an underwater viewing platform in the hope of observing hippo. Curious Vervet monkeys greet you along the way.

Mombasa

Mombasa lies on the coast and is a bustling city with a history stretching back to the 12th century. Here you’ll discover a vibrant mixture of cultures, architecture and entertainment. Apart from the beautiful beaches, the “Old Town” is reminiscent of the days when the Portuguese ruled Mombasa, where you can experience its ancient history even today in the structures that still stand, such as the Fort Jesus.

Seasons
Summer: Oct – Mar
Hot, you can experience thunderstorms in Nov.
Average Temperatures: 58/80
Fall: Apr – May
Daily thundershowers, with cool nights.
Average Temperatures: 59/76

 

Winter: Jun – Jul
Dry, with cold nights.
Average Temperatures: 56/73

 

Spring: Aug – Sep
Hot, dry.
Average Temperatures: 55/78

 

Migration Season:
Jul – Oct in the Masai Mara National Park

 

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