Welcome back to Wazimba Travel’s Kenya series! Previously, we introduced you to Kenya’s incredible diversity of landscapes, cultures, and wildlife. Now, let’s get down to the practical stuff – how to plan your dream Kenyan adventure. As safari specialists with years of experience in East Africa, we’re here to share our insider knowledge to make your trip planning a breeze!
When to Visit: Timing Your Kenya Adventure
One of the first questions our Wazimba Travel clients ask is, “When’s the best time to visit Kenya?” The honest answer? It depends on what you want to see and do! Kenya is a year-round destination, but each season offers something special.
Dry Seasons (June to October & January to February)
These are the most popular times to visit, and for good reason:
- Wildlife viewing is at its peak – Animals gather around shrinking water sources, making them easier to spot
- The Great Migration – From July to October, millions of wildebeest and zebra move through the Maasai Mara
- Less rain means better roads – Getting around is easier, especially to remote areas
- Comfortable temperatures – Warm days and cool nights make for pleasant safari conditions
- Gorgeous clear skies – Perfect for those stunning sunset photos!
The downside? This is high season, so expect more safari vehicles and higher prices. Book your Wazimba Travel safari at least 6-8 months in advance for these popular periods!
Green Seasons (March to May & November to December)
Don’t write off the rainy seasons! They’re called “green seasons” for a reason:
- Lush, vibrant landscapes – The countryside transforms into a photographer’s dream
- Baby animals galore – Many species give birth during this time
- Fantastic bird watching – Migratory birds flock to Kenya
- Lower prices and fewer crowds – Get more bang for your buck and more exclusive wildlife sightings
- Short rain showers – Typically in the late afternoon, rarely disrupting a full day
The brief November-December “short rains” are especially worth considering – you’ll get green scenery without the heavier downpours of the March-May “long rains.”
Monthly Highlights
Here’s our Wazimba Travel month-by-month quick guide:
- January-February: Hot, dry, and excellent for wildlife viewing across most parks
- March-May: The “long rains” bring lush landscapes and newborn animals; lower tourism means great deals
- June: The start of the dry season with pleasant temperatures and increasing wildlife concentrations
- July-October: Peak season! The Great Migration, excellent predator sightings, and perfect weather
- November-December: “Short rains” bring green landscapes back; good wildlife viewing continues with fewer crowds
How Long to Stay: Creating Your Perfect Itinerary
Kenya deserves time! Here’s what we recommend at Wazimba Travel:
1-Week Kenya Experience (7-8 days)
Perfect for first-timers or those combining Kenya with other countries. A typical Wazimba Travel one-week itinerary includes:
- 1-2 nights in Nairobi (visit Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Centre)
- 3-4 nights in Maasai Mara (the absolute must-see)
- 2 nights in either Amboseli (for those Kilimanjaro views) or Lake Nakuru (flamingos and rhinos)
2-Week Kenya Deep Dive (12-14 days)
Our most popular Wazimba Travel option for experiencing Kenya’s diversity:
- 2 nights in Nairobi
- 3 nights in Maasai Mara
- 2 nights in Lake Nakuru/Lake Naivasha
- 2 nights in Amboseli
- 2 nights in Tsavo (East or West)
- 3 nights on the coast (Diani Beach or Watamu)
3-Week Ultimate East African Safari (18-21 days)
For those who want it all, Wazimba Travel can create the ultimate East African experience:
- The 2-week Kenya itinerary above
- Extension to Tanzania (Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater)
- Or add Uganda/Rwanda for gorilla trekking
- Alternative: Deeper exploration of Kenya’s northern frontier (Samburu, Laikipia, Lake Turkana)
Budget Considerations: Safari Options for Every Wallet
Kenya offers amazing experiences across all budget ranges. Here’s what you can expect:
Budget-Friendly Options ($80-250 per person per day)
- Public campgrounds or budget tented camps
- Shared safari vehicles and group tours
- National park accommodations
- Self-catering options in some locations
- Basic but clean and comfortable experiences
Mid-Range Adventures ($250-500 per person per day)
- Private tented camps and lodges
- Exclusive use of safari vehicle and guide
- Full-board accommodation
- Some included activities beyond game drives
- Comfortable and authentic safari experience
Luxury Experiences ($500+ per person per day)
- Exclusive luxury lodges and tented camps
- Private guides and customized experiences
- All-inclusive packages with premium drinks
- Special activities (hot air balloons, helicopter tours)
- Extra touches like bush dinners and spa treatments
At Wazimba Travel, we specialize in creating custom itineraries that mix and match accommodation types to maximize your budget. Maybe splurge on that dream Mara lodge but choose more modest options elsewhere!
Entry Requirements: Getting Into Kenya
Kenya has made significant improvements to its visa process in recent years:
Kenya eVisa
- Apply online before travel at http://evisa.go.ke
- Cost: $51 for single-entry tourist visa
- Processing time: Usually 2-3 business days
- Validity: 3 months from date of issue
- Stay duration: Up to 90 days, with possible extensions
East Africa Tourist Visa
If you’re combining Kenya with Uganda and Rwanda, consider the East Africa unified visa:
- Cost: $100
- Coverage: Multiple entries between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for 90 days
- Application: Through any of the three countries’ visa systems
Visa Requirements
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond your planned departure)
- Return ticket or onward travel proof
- Sufficient funds for your stay
When you book with Wazimba Travel, we’ll guide you through the visa process and provide all necessary documentation to support your application.
Health Preparations: Staying Safe and Well
Your health is our priority at Wazimba Travel. Here’s what you need to know:
Required and Recommended Vaccinations
- Yellow Fever: Required if arriving from affected countries, recommended for all visitors
- Routine vaccinations: Make sure you’re up to date on tetanus, measles, etc.
- Recommended: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Rabies (if visiting remote areas)
Always consult your travel doctor 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized advice.
Malaria Prevention
Kenya is a malaria zone, but don’t let that put you off! Simple precautions work wonders:
- Anti-malarial medication: Start before travel as advised by your doctor
- Insect repellent: 20-30% DEET works best
- Cover up: Long sleeves and pants in the evenings
- Sleep under mosquito nets: All reputable accommodations provide these
Travel Insurance
This is non-negotiable! Make sure your policy includes:
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Coverage for adventure activities
- Trip cancellation/interruption
- Lost baggage protection
Wazimba Travel can recommend trusted insurance providers specific to East African travel.
Health Kit Essentials
Pack these basics:
- Personal medications
- Anti-diarrheal medicine
- Motion sickness remedies (for bumpy safari roads!)
- Basic first aid supplies
- Hand sanitizer
- High SPF sunscreen
- Insect repellent
Packing Guide: Safari Style Made Simple
Packing light but right is key for a Kenyan safari. Here’s the Wazimba Travel guide:
Safari Clothing
- Neutral colors (khaki, olive, tan) for wildlife viewing
- Layerable items for variable temperatures
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics that dry quickly
- Long sleeves and pants for evenings (mosquito protection)
- Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes
- Hat with brim for sun protection
- Light jacket or fleece for early mornings and evenings
- Swimwear (many lodges have pools)
- One “nicer” outfit for upscale lodges or city dining
Essential Gear
- Good binoculars (one pair per person if possible)
- Camera with zoom lens and plenty of memory cards
- Power bank/portable charger
- Universal plug adapter
- Headlamp or small flashlight
- Day pack for carrying essentials
- Reusable water bottle
Leave Behind
- Bright colors (especially blue, which attracts tsetse flies)
- Heavy jeans (too hot during day, too slow to dry if washed)
- Excessive jewelry or valuables
- Camouflage clothing (illegal for civilians to wear in some areas)
Planning Your Perfect Kenya Trip
With these basics covered, you’re well on your way to planning an unforgettable Kenyan adventure! Remember these Wazimba Travel top tips:
- Book early for peak season (especially July-September)
- Consider shoulder seasons for better value and fewer crowds
- Don’t rush – allow at least 2-3 nights per location
- Balance safari time with relaxation days
- Include diverse ecosystems for a more complete experience
- Trust local experts (that’s us!) to handle the complex logistics
In the next installment of our series, we’ll dive deep into Kenya’s iconic national parks and reserves, comparing their unique features and wildlife specialties to help you choose the perfect combination for your safari dreams!
Ready to start planning your Kenya adventure? Contact the Wazimba Travel team today for a custom itinerary tailored to your timeline, interests, and budget. Our on-the-ground expertise and relationships with the best lodges and guides across Kenya ensure your safari will be nothing short of magical!
Have questions about planning your Kenya trip? What specific aspects of safari planning would you like us to cover in more detail? Drop your questions in the comments below, and the Wazimba Travel team will respond!
