Kenya - Where it all began...

Discover Kenya, the traditional home of the safari

It's a Swahili word that changed the way we travelled across Africa... "Safari"... It means "journey," and in Kenya, that journey becomes an unforgettable adventure. This East African nation is the traditional home of the safari, and with good reason. From the awe-inspiring wildebeest migration of the Masai Mara National Reserve to Mount Kilimanjaro presiding over the rolling grasslands of Amboseli National Park, there's nowhere quite like it...

It's easy to love Kenya. Think "Out of Africa" – the movie that ignited a global passion for this incredible country, its spectacular landscapes, captivating wildlife and wonderful people. An ancient land, Kenya is steeped in history, unique cultures and tribal traditions and is home to big skies, vast plains, glistening lakes and dramatic mountain peaks. It's where the action of two tectonic plates pulling away from one another has created an awe-inspiring chasm we call the Great Rift Valley. 

Incredible national parks and conservancies teem with wildlife and play host to a diverse range of accommodation options from boutique guest houses and luxury lodges to stylish tented camps and bush retreats. Add to this some of the most beautiful beaches in Africa and you have a veritable paradise waiting to be explored. Kenya's Indian Ocean coastline is quite simply breathtaking, with soft, powder-white sand fringed by endless palm trees overlooking a dazzling, azure sea. It doesn't get much better!

Hotspots include the Masai Mara National Reserve and its neighbouring conservancies where you can witness the incredible spectacle of the Great Wildebeest Migration with its cast of millions of wildebeest supported by hundreds of thousands of zebra performing a never-ending circular journey that follows the rain, and fresh grazing, year in, year out. 

Amboseli National Park is renowned for its elephants and the instantly recognisable iconic view of Mount Kilimanjaro, which lies just across the border in neighbouring Tanzania. The beautiful Laikipia Plateau is perfect for escaping the crowds and immersing yourself in Kenyan heritage. It's a vast, remote wilderness with jaw-dropping scenery, views of Mount Kenya and a rich diversity of wildlife and tribal cultures. 

Mombasa is Kenya's oldest and second-largest city and is a vibrant cultural melting pot with stunning beaches and a rich history dating back centuries. With some of the best resorts in East Africa offering the chance to indulge in sun, sea and sand, it's the perfect compliment to a traditional safari. Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks together form one of the largest conservation areas in Kenya. Tsavo is home to a wide variety of wildlife and hundreds of bird species.

The capital of Nairobi is also worth spending time in, with a wide variety of activities and interesting places to visit on offer. 

More than anything, a visit to Kenya is a cultural immersion, offering a chance to witness ceremonies, interact with friendly locals, and gain a deeper appreciation for the warmth, diversity, and rich traditions that define this remarkable country. Kenyan culture is a veritable kaleidoscope reflecting the colourful tapestry of fascinating tribes that make this country so special. More than 40 ethnic groups contribute their unique customs, languages, and dress to the country's cultural mosaic. 

Family forms the core, with strong ties extending beyond parents and children to a network of relatives. Hospitality is a key value, with greetings involving warm handshakes and shared meals. Respect for elders is paramount, as they are seen as vessels of wisdom and guidance.

Food is a delicious journey in Kenya - a "safari" if you will! Ugali, a cornmeal porridge, is a national staple, while regional specialties like nyama choma (grilled meat) and the Luo people's fascinating insect delicacies add flavour to the experience. The coastal areas boast fresh seafood influenced by Arabic and Swahili traditions.

Regional specialties further enrich the experience. The Luhya people in the west savour ingokho, a chicken and ugali dish, while the Kalenjin of the Rift Valley enjoy mursik (fermented milk) with kimyet (ugali) and isageek (vegetable relish).The Kikuyu community in central Kenya incorporates tubers like sweet potatoes, arrowroot, and yams alongside legumes into their meals. 

Art and music are also steeped in Kenyan culture. Traditional dances narrate stories and celebrate occasions, while intricate beadwork, carvings, and textiles showcase the country's artistic heritage. Religion is a blend of Christianity and Islam, coexisting peacefully with traditional African beliefs. 

The weather's generally great in Kenya, thanks to it being equatorial. It can vary depending on altitude and region, but the period from December to March is usually the warmest of the year, while June to August are the coolest. April and May often see intermittent rains, and from September to November the days are warm with short, scattered rains falling in November.

Most of Kenya experiences highs ranging from the mid-20s to low 30s degrees Celsius (mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit). Sunshine is abundant, making it a great destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Great Rift Valley region experiences slightly hotter temperatures but is generally dry with limited rainfall. The Kenyan coast enjoys a tropical climate with high humidity (especially between December and March) and warm to hot temperatures year-round. The Indian Ocean is warm making it perfect for swimming and water activities.

Kenya's central highlands, including Nairobi, experience a more moderate climate with comfortable daytime temperatures and cooler nights. Rainfall is more frequent here, especially during the long rainy season (March to May) and the short rainy season (October to December).

The best time for wildlife viewing often coincides with the dry season (June to February) when animals congregate around water sources. However, some areas like the Masai Mara National Reserve offer exceptional wildlife viewing year-round.

Talk to us about organising a Kenyan safari for your clients and we'll plan a superlative itinerary that takes in the very best this amazing country has to offer.