Kenya has been in the tourism game longer than virtually any other African country – and it shows. Other nations may boast higher mountains, bigger game reserves and more exclusive lodges, but Kenya’s decades of experience means it still tops many travellers’ lists, with superb service, tried and tested itineraries, and the understanding that its people are as important as its wildlife in creating the perfect East African holiday.
Kenya’s vast grasslands are safari-classic, with wildlife as far as the eye can see; the only interruptions being a scattering of acacia trees and life-giving waterholes.
IN SWAHILI, ‘SAFARI’ MEANS ‘JOURNEY’, AND A KENYAN SAFARI IS JUST THAT: NOT JUST A WILDLIFE SPOTTING JAUNT, BUT A THRILLING VOYAGE.     
It’s all about choice here – whether you want secluded luxury or the Big Five on a budget, Kenya delivers – shunning the idea that safaris are only for the elite. Families will find guides who know how to inspire budding biologists, and lodges designed with children in mind.
From tourism’s colonial roots, Maasai-run camps are now springing up on community-owned land, revealing this tourism veteran’s progressive attitude towards both tribes and tourism, and a well-deserved recognition of a fascinating history that stretches back further than any other region of the world. Journey on through our Kenya travel guide for more inspiration.

Rift Valley

The 9,600km-long Rift Valley has shattered eastern Africa, leaving behind a trail of lakes, islands and lush oases. Eight lakes sprang up in Kenya; Naivasha has over 400 species of birds, flitting about amongst the hippos, Elementaita is a deep blue soda lake, attracting white pelicans, and Baringo has a floating restaurant. Geological activity continues in the Rift, with hot springs and steam vents bubbling from the deep.

Conservancies

We just love Kenya’s conservancies. Owned and managed by local communities – often the Maasai – they’re filled with wildlife and genuine cultural encounters. You can do bushwalks and nighttime safaris (not permitted in national parks or reserves) and there are far fewer visitors. On top of that, your fees go back into the community and conservation. Read more about them.

Two wheels good

Africa is rarely thought of as a destination for cyclists; even less so the animal filled wildernesses of Kenya. But it’s catching on. Cyclists can cover more ground than walking safaris, while getting up close to wildlife and really experiencing being out in this phenomenal landscape. Plus you get to leave the juddery jeeps behind – and experience a sense of freedom.

The Centre & North

As the masses rush to see the Mara and the Migration, central and northern Kenya has been left in peace. Explore Samburu, home to Elsa the Lioness; the pretty African wild dogs of Laikipia, and the high-altitude awesomeness of the Aberdares, criss crossed by canyons and cascades. Even Mount Kenya’s slopes remain relatively unexplored, despite its exquisite flora and rare wildlife.

Game drives

Whether you’re watching a million wildebeest attempting to cross the Mara River without getting eaten by crocodiles, tracking the huge elephant herds of Amboseli against the backdrop of Kilimanjaro or visiting the highly endangered black and white rhino, Kenya is the king of game drives. Try and squeeze in a walking safari too – or a nighttime game drive in a conservancy.

The Masai Mara

This national reserve is synonymous with both wildlife and the Maasai tribes. A stage for the Great Migration, the Mara sees some two million wildebeest and zebras spilling into it from Jun-Oct – if they survive the precarious Mara River crossing. The surrounding Maasai conservancies give the chance to spend time with this fascinating people, with bushwalks, village visits and warrior training lessons.

Maasai culture

Of Kenya’s many tribes, the Maasai are easily the most recognisable, thanks to their tall stature, scarlet blankets and their long relationship with tourism. Visitors can stay at Maasai-owned camps and lodges, go for bushwalks with a local guide on Maasai-owned land, as well as seeing craft and warrior demonstrations, dance and music performances.

The coast

Kenya’s coastline can rival that of any tropical island – from the luxurious resorts to secluded keys, sprinkled in the warm Indian Ocean. Diani’s 10km of white sands are a classic, palm-fringed retreat – check out the reefs and the colobus monkeys. Lamu offers archaeological sites as well as beaches, and Malindi – the Italian favourite – has a cluster of affordable hotels, restaurants and bars.