How to Plan a Trip to Kenya & Places to Visit in Kenya
Kenya is a land of stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cultures, offering a wealth of experiences that cater to all types of travelers. From the iconic savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the pristine beaches of the Indian Ocean, Kenya promises an unforgettable journey. Here’s a detailed itinerary to explore the best vacation spots in Kenya.
Kenya Trip Itinerary
Day 1-2: Arrival in Nairobi
Stay: Giraffe Manor or Hemingways Nairobi
Nairobi National Park: Start your adventure with a safari at Nairobi National Park, where you can see lions, rhinos, and giraffes against the backdrop of the city skyline.
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: Visit the elephant orphanage to learn about conservation efforts and see baby elephants up close.
Giraffe Centre: Interact with the endangered Rothschild giraffes and learn about conservation efforts.
Day 3-4: Maasai Mara National Reserve
Stay: Mara Serena Safari Lodge or Governors' Camp
Safari Game Drives: Experience thrilling game drives in the Maasai Mara, home to the Big Five and famous for the Great Migration from July to October.
Balloon Safari: Enjoy a hot air balloon ride over the savannah at sunrise, followed by a champagne breakfast in the wild.
Visit a Maasai Village: Engage with the Maasai people, learn about their culture, and support their crafts by purchasing handmade souvenirs.
Day 5-6: Lake Nakuru National Park
Stay: Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge or Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge
Flamingo Watching: Witness thousands of flamingos lining the shores of Lake Nakuru, creating a stunning pink spectacle.
Game Drives: Explore the park known for its rhinos, lions, and leopards, as well as diverse bird species.
Baboon Cliff: Take in panoramic views of the park and the lake from this popular viewpoint.
Day 7-8: Amboseli National Park
Stay: Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge or Ol Tukai Lodge
Mt. Kilimanjaro Views: Enjoy stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, providing a dramatic backdrop for photography.
Elephant Herds: Observe large herds of elephants and other wildlife against the picturesque landscape.
Observation Hill: Climb this hill for a panoramic view of the park’s swamps, plains, and Kilimanjaro.
Day 9-10: Tsavo National Parks (East and West)
Stay: Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge or Finch Hattons
Mzima Springs: Visit these crystal-clear springs in Tsavo West, home to hippos and crocodiles, and perfect for bird watching.
Lava Flows and Caves: Explore the Shetani Lava Flow and Chyulu Hills, known for their volcanic landscapes.
Big Five Safari: Continue your wildlife adventure with game drives in Tsavo East, famous for its large elephant herds.
Day 11-12: Diani Beach
Stay: Baobab Beach Resort & Spa or The Sands at Nomad
Relax on the Beach: Unwind on the white sandy beaches of Diani, known for its turquoise waters and palm-fringed coastline.
Water Sports: Engage in activities like snorkeling, diving, kite surfing, and deep-sea fishing.
Colobus Conservation Centre: Learn about efforts to protect the endangered colobus monkeys and explore the surrounding forest trails.
Day 13-14: Lamu Island
Stay: Peponi Hotel or Majlis Resort
Lamu Old Town: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Swahili architecture and rich history.
Dhow Sailing: Experience a traditional dhow sailboat ride at sunset, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
Lamu Museum: Visit the museum to learn about the island's history, culture, and maritime heritage.
Day 15: Return to Nairobi
Shopping and Souvenirs: Spend your final day shopping at local markets such as the Maasai Market for unique handicrafts, jewelry, and art.
Departure: Head to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure.
Travel Tips for Kenya
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Kenya is during the dry seasons from June to October and January to February when wildlife is easier to spot.
Visa Requirements: Most visitors require a visa to enter Kenya, which can be obtained online through the eVisa system.
Health Precautions: Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date and consider taking malaria prophylaxis, especially if traveling to rural areas.
Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, but it’s advisable to have cash for smaller transactions and rural areas.
This itinerary provides a comprehensive journey through Kenya's diverse landscapes and cultures, offering a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. Let me know if you need any assistance with bookings or additional details for your trip!
Kenya Trip Itinerary
Day 1-2: Arrival in Nairobi
Stay: Giraffe Manor or Hemingways Nairobi
Nairobi National Park: Start your adventure with a safari at Nairobi National Park, where you can see lions, rhinos, and giraffes against the backdrop of the city skyline.
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: Visit the elephant orphanage to learn about conservation efforts and see baby elephants up close.
Giraffe Centre: Interact with the endangered Rothschild giraffes and learn about conservation efforts.
Day 3-4: Maasai Mara National Reserve
Stay: Mara Serena Safari Lodge or Governors' Camp
Safari Game Drives: Experience thrilling game drives in the Maasai Mara, home to the Big Five and famous for the Great Migration from July to October.
Balloon Safari: Enjoy a hot air balloon ride over the savannah at sunrise, followed by a champagne breakfast in the wild.
Visit a Maasai Village: Engage with the Maasai people, learn about their culture, and support their crafts by purchasing handmade souvenirs.
Day 5-6: Lake Nakuru National Park
Stay: Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge or Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge
Flamingo Watching: Witness thousands of flamingos lining the shores of Lake Nakuru, creating a stunning pink spectacle.
Game Drives: Explore the park known for its rhinos, lions, and leopards, as well as diverse bird species.
Baboon Cliff: Take in panoramic views of the park and the lake from this popular viewpoint.
Day 7-8: Amboseli National Park
Stay: Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge or Ol Tukai Lodge
Mt. Kilimanjaro Views: Enjoy stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, providing a dramatic backdrop for photography.
Elephant Herds: Observe large herds of elephants and other wildlife against the picturesque landscape.
Observation Hill: Climb this hill for a panoramic view of the park’s swamps, plains, and Kilimanjaro.
Day 9-10: Tsavo National Parks (East and West)
Stay: Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge or Finch Hattons
Mzima Springs: Visit these crystal-clear springs in Tsavo West, home to hippos and crocodiles, and perfect for bird watching.
Lava Flows and Caves: Explore the Shetani Lava Flow and Chyulu Hills, known for their volcanic landscapes.
Big Five Safari: Continue your wildlife adventure with game drives in Tsavo East, famous for its large elephant herds.
Day 11-12: Diani Beach
Stay: Baobab Beach Resort & Spa or The Sands at Nomad
Relax on the Beach: Unwind on the white sandy beaches of Diani, known for its turquoise waters and palm-fringed coastline.
Water Sports: Engage in activities like snorkeling, diving, kite surfing, and deep-sea fishing.
Colobus Conservation Centre: Learn about efforts to protect the endangered colobus monkeys and explore the surrounding forest trails.
Day 13-14: Lamu Island
Stay: Peponi Hotel or Majlis Resort
Lamu Old Town: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Swahili architecture and rich history.
Dhow Sailing: Experience a traditional dhow sailboat ride at sunset, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
Lamu Museum: Visit the museum to learn about the island's history, culture, and maritime heritage.
Day 15: Return to Nairobi
Shopping and Souvenirs: Spend your final day shopping at local markets such as the Maasai Market for unique handicrafts, jewelry, and art.
Departure: Head to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure.
Travel Tips for Kenya
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Kenya is during the dry seasons from June to October and January to February when wildlife is easier to spot.
Visa Requirements: Most visitors require a visa to enter Kenya, which can be obtained online through the eVisa system.
Health Precautions: Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date and consider taking malaria prophylaxis, especially if traveling to rural areas.
Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, but it’s advisable to have cash for smaller transactions and rural areas.
This itinerary provides a comprehensive journey through Kenya's diverse landscapes and cultures, offering a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. Let me know if you need any assistance with bookings or additional details for your trip!