Kenya Travel Guide

Overview

Kenya is a dream destination for wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, and beachgoers alike. The country is famous for its iconic safari experiences think the Great Migration in the Masai Mara, breathtaking landscapes like Amboseli National Park (with elephants roaming under Mount Kilimanjaro), and stunning coastal escapes in Diani Beach. Beyond wildlife, Kenya has a rich cultural heritage, from Maasai villages to the bustling streets of Nairobi. Whether you’re tracking the Big Five or sipping coffee in a Nairobi café, Kenya offers unforgettable “bucket list” moments.

Quick Facts About Kenya

Flights Information for Kenya

Most international travelers fly into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi or Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa. Nairobi has direct flights from Europe, the Middle East, and other African hubs. If you’re heading straight to the coast, Mombasa is a better option. Domestic flights (like those from Nairobi to Masai Mara or Lamu) are operated by airlines like SafariLink and Jambojet. You can compare flights on Skyscanner or Google Flights.

Safety Information You Should Know Before Visiting Kenya

Many travelers ask ‘Is Nairobi safe for tourists? while generally safe, take precautions in crowded areas. Some regions near the Somalia border (e.g., Garissa) have travel advisories that stick to tourist approved zones. Safaris are very safe when booked through reliable tour operators. For solo travelers, Uber/Bolt is safer than random taxis. Also, Kenya is conservative outside beach resorts, so dress modestly in towns and rural areas.

Climate

Kenya’s weather varies by region:
The best time to visit Masai Mara is during the dry season (June-October), when wildlife viewing is at its peak and the Great Migration occurs.

• Safari zones (Masai Mara, Amboseli): Warm days, cool nights. June-October is dry (best for wildlife viewing).
• Coast (Mombasa, Diani): Hot & humid year-round. Short rains in November, long rains April-May.
• Nairobi: Mild Approx (around 20-25°C). Evenings can be chilly.

I visited in August, and the Masai Mara was perfectly sunny but not scorching. The coast was steamy, but sea breezes helped.

Budget

Kenya is affordable but not as cheap as Southeast Asia. Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Budget hostels: Approx 1,500–3,000 KES ($12–$25 USD)
• Mid-range hotels: Approx 6,000–12,000 KES ($50–$100 USD)
• Luxury safari lodges: Approx 30,000+ KES ($250+ USD) per night
• Meals: Street food Approx (200–500 KES), restaurant meals Approx (800–2,000 KES)
• Transport: Uber in cities (cheap), domestic flights Approx (15,000–25,000 KES one way)

Tip: Safaris are the biggest expense book in advance for deals. Your Kenya travel budget will vary significantly depending on whether you choose budget camping or luxury lodges.

Other Essential Info:

• Health: Malaria is a risk (take prophylaxis). Yellow fever vaccine required if coming from affected countries.
• Wildlife Etiquette: Always follow your guide’s instructions never approach animals.
• Local Customs: A handshake is common; use your right hand for greetings/eating.
• Internet: SIM cards (Safaricom/Airtel) are cheap and work well in cities.

Final Thoughts

Kenya is a must visit for anyone craving wildlife, culture, and adventure. With the right planning, it’s an easy and rewarding destination.

🙋 Frequently Asked Questions