Kenya
Kenya Travel Guide: Planning details
Budget notes, transport, where to stay, ideal trip length, and local tips for your trip.
Kenya
Plan smarter in Kenya
Maasai Mara migrations, Amboseli elephants, and classic safari camps-how to plan your Kenya wildlife trip.
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Nairobi
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Quick budget notes
- Park fees are per person per day-factor into budget early.
- Lodges range from budget tented camps to luxury conservancies.
- All-inclusive safari packages simplify transfers and meals.
Getting around
- Fly into Nairobi (NBO); connect via light aircraft to Mara or Amboseli.
- Road transfers possible but long 4–5 hrs to Mara from Nairobi.
- Safari vehicles are 4x4 pop-top jeeps with experienced guides.
Where to stay
- Maasai Mara conservancies for fewer crowds and night drives.
- Amboseli for elephant herds and Kilimanjaro views.
- Nairobi hotel for arrival night before early safari departure.
Ideal trip length
- 5–6 days: Nairobi + 3 nights Maasai Mara.
- 8–10 days: Mara, Amboseli, and Lake Nakuru or beach add-on.
Must book ahead
- Migration-season lodges (Jul–Sep) reserve months ahead.
- Internal flights to Mara airstrips in peak periods.
- Hot-air balloon safaris over the Mara (popular, limited slots).
Local tips
- Tip guides and camp staff in USD or Kenyan shillings.
- Stay quiet and still during sightings-engines off when possible.
- Respect wildlife distance rules; never exit vehicle unless guided.
Safety & common scams
- Use licensed tour operators and KWS-accredited guides.
- Avoid walking alone at night in Nairobi-use hotel transfers.
- Confirm park fees and conservancy charges are included in quotes.
Connectivity & money
- M-Pesa is ubiquitous; USD accepted at lodges.
- Safari lodges have Wi-Fi but speeds vary-download maps offline.
- Currency: Kenyan shilling (KES); carry cash for tips and small purchases.