Personalized trips to Kenya
for independent travelers

How it works
Chat with specialist icon Step 1
Tell us what kind of trip you want
Complete our quick travel quiz
Chat icons Step 2
Chat with a local travel specialist
Work out the details together
Credit card icon Step 3
Securely book your trip
100% satisfaction guaranteed

Travelers love kimkim

- ., traveled to in

Introducing Kenya

What comes to mind when you imagine Kenya? If you think of slender giraffes, wild-maned lions, and herds of zebra and wildebeest migrating across the open savanna, you're not wrong—but there's more to Kenya than the safari vacation you've been dreaming about. Beyond being one of the best places on earth to view the "Big 5," Kenya also offers gorgeous Indian Ocean coastline to explore, cultural engagement with Masaai tribespeople and other local experiences, and the opportunity to witness incredible conservation efforts at wildlife rescues in Nairobi and beyond. 

When is the best time to visit? 
The general consensus about Kenya is that there are two seasons, dry and wet, dictated more by rainfall than by fluctuation in temperature. But in reality, weather in Kenya is more nuanced than that—and depending on altitude, seasonal monsoon winds, and proximity to Lake Victoria, you may experience rain at any time of year. All that said, the most popular travel times are December-January and July-August, typically the driest and best for viewing wildlife. Other times of year have their perks, though: wet conditions mean abundant flora, lower prices, and fewer safari groups crowding the national park roads.

How many days do I need?
Due to the unpredictability of animals in their natural habitat, patience is key: the more time you spend, the more likely it is that you'll observe a wide range of wildlife. Safari tours can range from a single day to multiple weeks, though three to five days per park is enough for most people. A popular option for travelers keen on safari is to spend a few days in the famous Masai Mara reserve and a few days in another of Kenya's parks—or combine your time with a trip to Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater.

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 7 days · 10 days · 12 days · 14 days · 21 days

Kenya Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
See lions in the wild hunt for buffalo
Map of Kenya Wildlife Safari - 10 Days
Kenya Wildlife Safari - 10 Days

This exciting 10-day itinerary allows you to truly discover Kenya's diverse wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Your trip will start in the bustling central city, Nairobi before you depart for the countryside and visit Amboseli National Park, which is home to Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro. Over these 10 days, you will also see the most famous Kenyan parks, including Hell's Gate, Mount Longonot, Lake Nakuru, Lake Bogoria, and Maasai Mara, which are home to thousands of wildlife species as well as incredible hiking trails and viewpoints.

A camel at Diani Beach
Map of Best of Kenya: Landscape, Safari, & Beach - 12 days
Best of Kenya: Landscape, Safari, & Beach - 12 days

If you want to experience all of Kenya's top destinations—while also getting the chance to lay back and relax—this exciting 12-day itinerary is for you. You'll start the trip in the bustling capital Nairobi before departing for Kenya's national parks to discover majestic landscapes, see the Big Five, spot diverse bird species, visit chimpanzees, watch an animal migration at Maasai Mara, swim in turquoise blue water, and more.

A group of feeding zebras in Serengeti National Park
Kenya & Tanzania Wildlife Safari - 7 Days

This exciting itinerary includes unforgettable game drives in Kenya and Tanzania for travelers who like to be on the move. Start with two nights in Nairobi for an introduction to Kenyan culture and wildlife conservation. Then, fly to Kilimanjaro, where you'll visit three beautiful safari destinations, including the Serengeti and UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Crater. Enjoy the comfort of private transfers and unique all-inclusive lodgings for the ultimate African adventure.

Recharge on the sunkissed shores of Zanzibar
Map of Zanzibar Beach Holiday - 5 Days
Zanzibar Beach Holiday - 5 Days

If you're looking to escape the daily grind, five days in a tropical paradise like Zanzibar might be what the doctor ordered. More than inviting white-sand beaches and crystalline waters, the island of Zanzibar is also home to a rich culture and fascinating medieval history. You'll experience it all, plus have your pick of various optional activities—including a romantic sunset cruise.

Mt. Kenya
Ultimate Kenya: Mt. Kenya Trek & Maasai Mara Safari - 12 Days

This active, 12-day adventure includes some of Kenya's best outdoor experiences. After sightseeing in Nairobi, spend several days hiking to the top of Mt. Kenya, the second-highest mountain in Africa. This amazing and challenging experience is followed by several days of safari and wildlife-spotting activities, as well as cultural immersion in the Maasai Mara.

Lake Victoria from above
Kenyan Culture & Wildlife: Lake Victoria, Kisumu, & Maasai Mara - 8 Days

Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa and the second-largest freshwater lake by surface area in the world, giving you plenty to explore on this eight-day itinerary. Dive into lake life on Rusinga and Mfangano islands, stroll the streets of Kisumu city, and safari through the famous Maasai Mara reserve as you enjoy a spectrum of what Kenya has to offer.

Make the Most of Your Time in Kenya

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Elephants in Amboseli National Park, with Mt. Kilimanjaro in the distance
Map of How Many Days to Spend in Kenya
How Many Days to Spend in Kenya

If you have two weeks to spend in Kenya, you can visit several wildlife reserves and national parks, devote time to beaches and learn about the local people and their culture....

Elephant sightings in Masai Mara National Park
Map of 1 Week in Kenya - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Kenya - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Kenya is an excellent place to holiday in Africa, especially for safari-goers. With an entire week, you'll experience the country's healthy national park and conservancy...

A pair of lions in the Maasai Mara, Kenya
Map of 10 Days in Kenya - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Kenya - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

If you have 10 days to spend in Kenya, you'll likely want to spend a few on safari in Maasai Mara National Reserve. How you organize the rest of your time is up to you: round...

A family of elephants in the Maasai Mara National Reserve
Map of 2 Weeks in Kenya - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Kenya - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks is a perfect amount of time to spend in and around Kenya. There are many ways to structure your trip. Combine a wilderness safari with a cultural tour around the...

Kenya Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
Photos from top left clockwise: Elephants crossing a road in Tanzania,  Maasai people in Kenya, Giraffe in Nairobi National Park, and a lake in Ngorongoro Crater
Kenya or Tanzania Safari

Choosing between a safari in Kenya or Tanzania can be challenging, as both countries offer unique experiences and incredible wildlife diversity. To help you make the best...

Our Latest Kenya Content

Spot big cats like cheetahs as you race across Kenya's national parks on safari
Map of East Africa Safari Adventures & Gorilla Trecking: Kenya, Tanzania & Uganda - 21 Days
East Africa Safari Adventures & Gorilla Trecking: Kenya, Tanzania & Uganda - 21 Days

Enjoy a three-week wildlife and cultural adventure in East Africa, a region abounding with national parks, reserves, and tribal communities. The safari truck awaits as you set off into Kenya's most famous parks, like Masai Mara, to spot elephants, lions, cheetahs, and more. Then, cross into Tanzania for more thrilling game drives on the Serengeti and the volcanic crater at Ngorongoro before continuing deep into the Ugandan rainforest to witness the last remaining wild mountain gorillas in the world.

Ride a hot-air balloon over Serengeti National Park
Map of Wild East African Odyssey: Savannas & Beaches in Kenya & Tanzania - 21 Days
Wild East African Odyssey: Savannas & Beaches in Kenya & Tanzania - 21 Days

Experience the splendor of East Africa on a three-week journey to two of its most gorgeous and biodiverse countries: Kenya and Tanzania. Meet rescued animals, like elephants and giraffes, in Nairobi, then see these animals in the wild on game drives. After a hot-air balloon trip over the golden savannas of the Masai Mara Reserve, you'll cross into Tanzania for more safari fun, including at the "Cradle of Mankind," Ngorongoro, before wrapping up with snorkeling and sunset cruises in Zanzibar.

The Masai Mara National Reserve is that it is renowned for its high concentration of predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs
Map of 1 Week in Kenya - 3 Safari Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Kenya - 3 Safari Itinerary Ideas

With one week to spend in Kenya, you can comfortably visit four safari destinations. Travelers wanting to hit the highlights can go on game drives to spot the Big Five in Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru, while those looking to discover lesser-traveled destinations can venture to Samburu for a cultural exchange and to see the world's last two white rhinos at Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Birders will enjoy bush walks, spotting exotic species at Taita, and over 500 species like secretary birds and hornbills at Tsavo.

Kenya Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map One Week in Kenya - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
One Week in Kenya - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 5 Days in Kenya - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Kenya - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map How Many Days to Spend in Kenya
How Many Days to Spend in Kenya
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Kenya
Travel specialist Joseph Thuo
active 3 hours ago

Joseph Thuo

Born and raised in Kenya, in the land of the Maasai (Narok), I started traveling extensively around the country back in College, exploring unique destinations and cultural experiences one after...

read more...
Travel specialist Lize Enderstein
active 2 hours ago

Lize Enderstein

I work as a senior consultant for African Travel Gateway and have 18 years of experience in the travel industry. We plan, book and implement tailor-made holidays for our clients that fit within...

read more...
Travel specialist Petru van Zyl
active 2 hours ago

Petru van Zyl

I started in the travel industry in August 1998 and have 27 years experience as a travel consultant. I am a senior consultant who specializes in FIT travel, group travel, VIP clients, luxury...

read more...
Travel specialist Stephan Meyer-Buenau
active 37 mins ago

Stephan Meyer-Buenau

As a Nairobi-based travel specialist, I embody the spirit of adventure while crafting unforgettable journeys for travelers. With a blend of local expertise and global perspective, I sprinkle each...

read more...

Related Destinations

Travelers who visit Kenya also visit these destinations

Trip Reviews for Kenya

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Trip of a Lifetime!
Kenya | Apr 17 - Apr 26, 2025

Kaitlyn
Kaitlyn M.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Jul 09, 2025
Kim Kim put together an AWESOME experience for us! We traveled to Kenya in April for 10 days as a family of four, with two girls (ages 11 and 13). Our itinerary was as follows: Nairobi (2 nights), Ol Pejeta Conservancy (2 nights), Nakuru (2 nights), Maji Moto (1 night), and then Masai Mara (2 nights). I was a little worried it would seem like a "bag drag" with all the separate locations, but it didn't! Everything was executed well and went smoothly with just enough downtime. While... Read more

Kim Kim put together an AWESOME experience for us! We traveled to Kenya in April for 10 days as a family of four, with two girls (ages 11 and 13). Our itinerary was as follows: Nairobi (2 nights), Ol Pejeta Conservancy (2 nights), Nakuru (2 nights), Maji Moto (1 night), and then Masai Mara (2 nights). I was a little worried it would seem like a "bag drag" with all the separate locations, but it didn't! Everything was executed well and went smoothly with just enough downtime. While planning the trip, we were also concerned about traveling during the rainy season; however, we were reassured by local experts that it would not impact our experience. It did affect us, but only in a positive way. The afternoon showers often occurred after lunch and during our siesta, and our evening drives were filled with animals emerging to enjoy the cooler weather after the passing storms. Not to mention, the crowds were minimal. We saw the Big Five on day three and continued to see everything we had dreamed of.
Our two favorite things:
1. Our driver, Andrew, was the best! He made us feel comfortable, safe, and communicated well; he could also drive that Land Cruiser! We were all sad to say our goodbyes and feel like we made a friend.
2. Maji Moto was an incredible experience for all of us, but especially the girls. We felt honored to be a part of the Masai for two days, and camping in the bush under the stars, eating goat, and listening to them sing was something we will never forget! I am very grateful to all the members of this camp for their time and for teaching us not only about their culture but also for letting us experience it for a short period. What wonderful people! If you do go, pack some extra school supplies and clothing for the kids. We brought a little but not enough, and wish we had brought a whole suitcase!

Hotel Reviews
Olive Bush Camp

We loved our awesome family tent and enjoyed hearing the hippos while we fell asleep. The food was incredible, and the staff were terrific. I highly recommend Olive Bush Camp.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp
Maji Moto

If you're looking for a full cultural experience and are up for a bit of adventure, you must give this place a try. I wrote more about this place in my trip review. Please take a look there. It was the highlight of our trip!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lake Nakuru Lodge
Nakuru

We had a fantastic view and loved the pool after our day drives.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rooms need some updating, but we would still stay again!
Sweetwaters Serena Camp
Nanyuki

Loved this place! Tents were very well appointed, food and service were fantastic and we loved watching the animals at the watering hole.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fair Acres Boutique Hotel
Karen, Nairobi. P. O Box 1121 – 00208 Nairobi.

Wonderful Rooms. The only complaint was that we had to move rooms the second night, and wish we could have just been assigned one room.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Maasai Mara Game Drives
Maasai Mara Game Drives
Masai Mara
Maasai Mara National Reserve
Maasai Mara National Reserve
Masai Mara
Maji Moto Maasai "Olpul" Bush Camp
Maji Moto Maasai "Olpul" Bush Camp
Maji Moto
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Lake Nakuru Full Day Game Drives
Lake Nakuru Full Day Game Drives
Nakuru
Lake Nakuru National Park Game Drive
Lake Nakuru National Park Game Drive
Nakuru
Night Game Drive
Night Game Drive
Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Very cool experience! Definitely worth giving it a try.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Behind Scenes Chimpanzees
Behind Scenes Chimpanzees
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Ol Pejeta Conservancy Game Drives
Ol Pejeta Conservancy Game Drives
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Quality of Experience
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
 Giraffe Center
Giraffe Center
Kenya
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Kenya

Worth the quick visit. Very educational and enjoyable, with great interaction with the elephants.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park
Kenya
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Joseph Thuo
Joseph
Joseph Thuo
Local specialist in Nairobi, Kenya | Replied on Jul 10, 2025
Hi Kaitlyn
Thank you so much for taking the time to share this wonderful feedback! We’re absolutely thrilled to hear that your family had such a memorable time in Kenya and that the itinerary worked out so smoothly—even with the multiple stops. It’s great to know that the rainy season ended up enhancing your experience rather than hindering it!
We're especially touched by your kind words about your time at Maji Moto. It truly means a lot to us that the camp made such a strong impression on...
Read more

Hi Kaitlyn
Thank you so much for taking the time to share this wonderful feedback! We’re absolutely thrilled to hear that your family had such a memorable time in Kenya and that the itinerary worked out so smoothly—even with the multiple stops. It’s great to know that the rainy season ended up enhancing your experience rather than hindering it!
We're especially touched by your kind words about your time at Maji Moto. It truly means a lot to us that the camp made such a strong impression on you and your daughters. Sharing our Maasai culture in a meaningful and respectful way is something we care deeply about, and it’s incredibly rewarding to hear that you felt welcomed and enriched by the experience.
We’ll be sure to pass your compliments on to Andrew—he really is amazing, and we’re glad he helped make your journey so comfortable and enjoyable.
You're most welcome back anytime in Kenya or other destinations in East Africa such as Tanzania, Uganda or Rwanda.
Warmest regards,
Joseph

We had a fantastic time in Aberdare and Sambu...
Kenya | Jun 20 - Jun 24, 2025

Peter
Peter B.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jul 01, 2025

We had a fantastic time in Aberdare and Samburu with our most-excellent guide Martin W. from outfitter Truly Swahili. He was extremely knowledgeable about the local fauna (and flora), and was a lot of fun to explore the area with. Will definitely recommend him. Thanks again to Kimkim, Truly Swahili, Martin, and all the local critters for revealing themselves!

Cheers
Peter & Lisa Barto

Local specialist: Stephan Meyer-Buenau
Stephan
Stephan Meyer-Buenau
Local specialist in Kenya | Replied on Jul 02, 2025

Hi Peter,

Thank you so much for the amazing review! I’m thrilled to hear you had such a fantastic time in Aberdare and Samburu with Martin; he’ll be so happy to hear your kind words. It was a real pleasure planning this adventure for you and Lisa, and I’m so glad the local wildlife came out to greet you!

We’d absolutely love to plan another adventure for you in the future.

The trip was awesome! Joseph did a great job...
Kenya | Jan 30 - Feb 5, 2025

A
Amber R.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Feb 12, 2025
The trip was awesome! Joseph did a great job of creating an itinerary that worked for myself and my 70 year old father. We were overjoyed with the trip of a lifetime! Read more

The trip was awesome! Joseph did a great job of creating an itinerary that worked for myself and my 70 year old father. We were overjoyed with the trip of a lifetime!

Hotel Review
Ashnil Mara Camp
Maasai Mara
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Maji Moto Maasai "Olpul" Bush Camp
Maji Moto Maasai "Olpul" Bush Camp
Maji Moto

This was our favorite activity! Camping out at the Bush Camp after slaughtering a goat was an incredible cultural experience.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Joseph Thuo
Joseph
Joseph Thuo
Local specialist in Nairobi, Kenya | Replied on Feb 12, 2025
Dear Amber, Thank you so much for your kind words and for sharing your experience! We're thrilled to hear that you had such an amazing trip—it was truly a pleasure crafting an itinerary that suited all of you. We're especially happy to know that Maji Moto Maasai "Olpul" Bush Camp was a highlight for you. It’s such a unique and immersive cultural experience, and I’m glad it left a lasting impression! If you ever decide to explore more off-the-beaten-path adventures, I’d love to help you... Read more

Dear Amber,

Thank you so much for your kind words and for sharing your experience! We're thrilled to hear that you had such an amazing trip—it was truly a pleasure crafting an itinerary that suited all of you.

We're especially happy to know that Maji Moto Maasai "Olpul" Bush Camp was a highlight for you. It’s such a unique and immersive cultural experience, and I’m glad it left a lasting impression!

If you ever decide to explore more off-the-beaten-path adventures, I’d love to help you plan another unforgettable journey.

Wishing you all the best, and safe travels in the future!

Best regards,
Joseph

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.