How To Choose a Safari in Kenya

Read on for more about how to choose a safari in Kenya.

2 min readAug 9, 2018By Lydia Schrandt

Hi, I'm Lydia!

Lydia Schrandt is a writer, editor, and award-winning photographer currently based in Houston. She’s a contributor for USA TODAY 10Best and serves as the first chair of the Editors Council of the Society of American Travel Writers. Her work has appeared in Draft, Time Out Beijing, Travel+, USA TODAY, San Francisco Chronicle, and others.

The concept of going on safari was made popular in Kenya, and the country remains one of Africa’s top destinations for spotting wildlife. A safari is an unforgettable experience, but not all safaris are created equal. Here are some safari options in Kenya, whether you’re short on time or planning the ultimate bucket list trip.

Why you are seeing these recommendations

1. For the Time-Crunched Visitor

You don’t need a ton of time to get out into the bush to spot wildlife. Nairobi National Park is just outside the Kenyan capital, making it a convenient option that can be done in half a day. Those pressed for time who still want to do an overnight safari can opt for one in Amboseli National Park.

Nairobi National Park Half-Day Tour; Free Wi-Fi connection

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See free-ranging wildlife with the backdrop of the Nairobi skyline on a half-day tour to Nairobi National Park, a convenient way to experience a Kenya safari even if you have limited time. Door-to-door transport from Nairobi hotels make this a hassle-free way to get to the park, and you’ll have the chance to spot black rhinos, lions, giraffes, leopards, and hundreds of species of birds.... More

5 hours
Free Cancellation

from

$60.00

Price varies by group size

2. For the Environmentalist

Conservation is a headline issue in Kenya, and those who want to learn more about wildlife protection efforts can combine a short safari to Nairobi National Park with visits to an elephant rescue and rehabilitation facility and a center for endangered giraffes.

Tour: Giraffe Center and Nairobi National Park

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Prepaid entrance fees and private transportation make for a foolproof day of Nairobi sightseeing. Visit top Nairobi sites such as Nairobi National Park, Giraffe Centre,—all with the benefit of a personal guide to share information about the local wildlife, history, and culture as you go.... More

8 hours
Free Cancellation

from

$182.00

Price varies by group size

3. For the Bucket-Lister

For most travelers, an African safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Make the most of it with a longer safari—typically around two weeks—that showcases the best of both Kenya and neighboring Tanzania. Spotting the Big Five is almost guaranteed.

7-Day Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha and Amboseli Safari from Nairobi

Journey through the African great plains on a 1-week safari through some of Kenya’s most beautiful national parks and reserves. Visit Maasai Mara, Nakuru, Naivasha, and Amboseli and take safari drives to see animals such as elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and rare white rhinos. See the great Mount Kilimanjaro looming in the distance throughout your weeklong tour and admire the savannah scenery.... More

7 days
Free Cancellation

from

$2,079.00

Price varies by group size

4. For the Beach Lover

While the wildlife undeniably headlines Kenya’s list of attractions, sunseekers needn’t choose between a safari and a beach vacation. Multi-day tours combine the best of both worlds, with time to visit Amboseli and Tsavo East national parks, as well as several days to relax on the beautiful beaches of Kenya’s south coast.

5-Day Safari Tour in 3 National Parks

Venture out from your coastal vacation with this very complete safari package. 5 days will give you lots of time to see the land, the wildlife and appreciate Africa’s endless beauty. You’ll return to the beach with photos, memories and stories to tell! The Tsavo parks are the largest in Kenya and boast the “big five” wildlife along with other hunters, grazers and hundreds of bird species. The land here is varied, rugged and rolls deep into the horizon, calling out to be explored. And explore them you will, on the many game drives through these celebrated reserves. There’s so much you’ll love about Amboseli National Park , from its immense herds of elephants to its looming neighbor, the all-imposing Mt. Kilimanjaro – tallest peak in Africa. Here you’ll have opportunities to view a diversity of wildlife like cheetah, lion and wildebeest. So, let’s get started!... More

5 days
Free Cancellation

from

$1,865.00

5. For the Outdoor Enthusiast

For travelers who feel at home in the great outdoors, camping safaris offer basic camping accommodations and the chance to sleep beneath the stars and take “bush showers” in the warm African sun. A typical week-long camping safari includes the highlights of the Great Rift Valley, including Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara National Park.

6 Days Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru & Amboseli Ultimate Kenyan Safari

The ideal introduction for first-time visitors, this in-depth, small-group safari excursion spans multiple days and several iconic wildlife reserves, including Masai Mara and Amboseli National Park. All expenses are included, leaving you free to relax and enjoy animal sights like lions, leopards, hippos, and rhinos. Cover some of East Africa’s most spectacular scenery, from the Great Rift Valley to soaring Mount Kilimanjaro.... More