Kenya is one of Africa’s most iconic travel destinations. A land of dramatic savannah plains, rich cultures, legendary wildlife, and scenic contrasts from desert to coastline. This Kenya travel overview is designed to help you explore the best of the country with practical information from the best time to travel, to transportation, Visa, medical know-how, and travel tips.
Best time to visit Kenya?
The best time for safaris in Kenya is during the dry season (June-October) when animals gather around waterholes. The Great Migration in Kenya and its border with Tanzania peaks around July-September in the Maasai Mara. Temperatures range from a minimum of 14°C to 18°C to a maximum of 30°C to 36°C. The heaviest rainfall is in April and the lowest in January. We visited Kenya in July.
Time Fact: There is a time difference (GMT+3)
How many days do you need in Kenya?
A 7-day trip can cover a major safari in Kenya with a visit to Mombasa or Nairobi, while 10-14 days allows adding the coast or more parks. We stayed 14 days in Kenya and visited 3 safari parks, Mombasa, and Diani Beach.
Decide which park to visit
First of all, you need to decide which national park you’ll want to visit. We booked a road trip which included Tsavo East, Amboseli and Tsavo West National Park.
- Nairobi National Park: Small park but perfect rhino sanctuary.
- Tsavo East National Park: Lots of wildlife
- Tsavo West National Park: Leopard and lion habitats!
- Amboseli National Park: Elephants, hippos, and a view of Kilimanjaro!
- Maasai Mara: The most famous reserve in Kenya, where you can spot the big 5. This wasn’t on our trip, but I definitely want to do this one day!
Do you need a visa and vaccinations for Kenya?
Kenya is visa-free, but travellers need an eVisa before arrival. Approval time is at least 5 business days.
Recommended vaccinations, such as yellow fever, hepatitis, and malaria prevention is also needed. Always check your home country requirements.
Important: Passport must be valid for another 6 months.
Do I need to take Malaria prevention?
Yes, you need to take Malaria prevention in Kenya. You start taking it 2 days before you enter the region until 7 days after you’ve left the region. I recommend taking Malaron as it has the least side effects (and I didn’t have any side effects when taking it in Senegal, Borneo, and Gili Meno). It’s a bit more expensive, but it’s the malaria prevention with the fewest side effects possible.
Make sure to have mosquito sprays with DEET, wear pants and shirts with long sleeves in the evening, and sleep with mosquito nets.
Currency & Voltage
Only plugs from the UK (3 flat pins) will work in Sri Lanka, it’s type G (240 V, 50 Hz). Travellers from Europe, Australia, and the UK need a plug adapter, while those from the USA & Canada require a voltage converter for non-dual voltage appliances.
Fact: Some areas are cut off from electricity. So also, bring along a powerbank just in case.
What currency is used in Kenya?
Kenya uses the Kenyan shilling (KSh), although US dollars are accepted in some places, such as large hotels. Cash is widely used, especially in smaller towns, but credit cards are accepted in big hotels.
How to get around Kenya?
Most travellers fly into Moi International Airport (Mombasa) or Nairobi International Airport. We flew with Lufthansa Airlines from Brussels to Mombasa via Tanzania, where we could see Mount Kilimanjaro from the plane!
Tip: Booking early is often the cheapest option. Check now for a cheap ticket.
Popular transport includes minibuses, buses, trains, car rental, and private drivers. I recommend a private driver as it’s more comfortable and somewhat safer. If you plan to rent a car, road travel is safer during the day.
Can you combine safari and beach in one trip in Kenya?
Yes, many travellers combine wildlife safaris in Maasai Mara and Amboseli with beach stays in Diani, Watamu, Lamu, or Zanzibar for a complete African experience.
What should I pack for Kenya?
Light, breathable clothing is best due to the tropical climate, and do safaris in neutral colours to blend in (beige, brown, and green). Make sure to bring these top 5 items on your safari trip:
- A pair of binoculars: to see all wildilfe upclose.
- Camera: to take amazing photos of your trip!
- Sunscreen: don’t get sunburned
- Bottle of water: stay hydrated
- Hat or cap: for sun protection
Use my ultimate packing list to have everything in your luggage for your trip.
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FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions Kenya
✈️ Best Time to visit Kenya?
The best time for safaris is during the dry season (June-October) when animals gather around waterholes. The Great Migration peaks around July-September in the Maasai Mara.
🕒 How many days do you need in Kenya?
A 7-day trip can cover a major safari and Nairobi, while 10-14 days allow adding the coast or more parks. We spent 14 days in Kenya.
🏖️ Can you combine safari and beach in one trip in Kenya?
Yes, many travelers combine wildlife safaris in Maasai Mara and Amboseli with beach stays in Diani, Watamu, Lamu, or Zanzibar for a complete African experience.
🚙 How to get around Kenya?
Popular transport includes minibuses, buses, trains, car rental, and private drivers. I recommend a private driver as it’s more comfortable and somewhat safer. If you plan to rent a car, road travel is safer during the day.
🧳 What should I pack for Kenya?
Light, breathable clothing is best due to the tropical climate, and do safaris in neutral colours (beige, brown, and green). Use my ultimate packing list to make packing easy!