KENYA

The July to October dry season is largely considered to be the best time to visit most areas. However, the two months of August and September in particular can be extremely busy, especially in the Masai Mara where tourists congregate to witness the Great Migration. One can also visit in early November before the short rains begin for a quieter, more exclusive experience. Alternatively, around Christmas and into January, February before the long rains start in March.

Travelling across Kenya, one will experience varying climatic, weather patterns due to the topographic difference, ranging from coastlines washed by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean to arid savannahs and snow-capped mountains. The coastal areas are tropical, with particularly high humidity in April and May, but often tempered by monsoon winds. In the lowlands (north and northeast), the weather is generally hot and dry, while the highlands (west and south-west) are more temperate.

Uniquely, Nairobi has a very pleasant climate throughout the year due to its altitude. Near Lake Victoria, the temperatures are much higher and rainfall can be heavy. Throughout the country, the hottest months are considered to be February and March with temperatures going as high as 93°F. The coolest period falls between July and August with temperatures dropping to the low 50’s(°F).

Given the variation in the country’s weather pattern, it’s advisable that one packs both warm and light clothes so as to adapt accordingly.

From Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling capital, safaris visit the renowned Masai Mara Reserve where Wildlife and Big 5 enthusiasts meet their dreams. Witness the great migration as a display of natural wonders with over two million wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelle and zebra traveling hundreds of miles to cross the Mara River into the plains to ensure their survival which is actually not guaranteed with Africa’s top predators on the way.

A visit to Lake Nakuru will provide a rare spectacle of thousands of the pink lesser flamingoes that literally turn the lake surface into some sort of “a pink flower” garden. It’s just mind-boggling! For birders, Lake Naivasha is a haven. Nearby is the Hell’s Gate NP which offers excellent walking safari and climbing opportunities with two extinct volcanoes and the red cliffs of Hell’s Gate Gorge.

The park also harbors obsidian caves and hisses with natural geysers and hot springs. If it is the grasslands that interest you, then Amboseli National Park is the place for you. Renowned for its gigantic elephants, Amboseli also rewards its visitors with the magnificent view of the (Tanzania’s) snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s highest mountain. Mountaineers, enjoy climbing and trekking the snow-cloaked equatorial peaks of Mount Kenya, Africa’s second highest peak. Proceed to explore Tsavo, the country’s largest wildlife park sliced in two: Tsavo West and Tsavo East. Midway between Nairobi and Mombasa, Tsavo East is famous for photo-worthy sightings of large elephant herds rolling and bathing in red dust. On the other hand, Tsavo West is a beautiful, rugged wilderness. Samburu National Park is remote, hot and arid with rugged hills and undulating plains. Visitors are rewarded with the unique sighting of wildlife such as the long necked gerenuk, gravy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and the Beisa oryx that can only be found here. However, the highlight for the visit to Samburu NP could be an encounter with the Samburu people who call this place home. Head to the coast – Diani Beach, Mombasa. Stretching along Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast like a ribbon of brilliant white, Diani Beach is a gorgeous setting for a beach vacation, honeymoon or just relaxation. The bottom line is that Kenya is well endowed and the list can go on and on …

The Masai Mara Reserve for big 5 sighting and to witness the Great Migration, Amboseli National Park for its enormous elephants and crowned with the magnificent view of (Tanzania’s) Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s highest mountain, Lake Nakuru for its mind-boggling spectacle of the (pink) lesser flamingoes, the snow-capped Mount Kenya which is a haven for mountain trekkers, Diani beach, Mombasa is undeniably the place to go for beach vacation, honeymoon or just relaxation.

While on a safari in Kenya, one may (depending on interest) undertake any of the following activities: Game drives, walking safaris, hot-air balloon safari, community and cultural encounter, birdwatching, mountain trekking, beach relaxation, snorkeling, boat cruise.

At least 4-Days although experience shows that it leaves one wishing he/she had more days to explore more.

From experience, most people incur no health problems during their visits but rather enjoy themselves during the time on Safari. Nevertheless, you may consider the following in your packing:

Anti-malaria medicines, pain reliever, insect repellent. Simple first aid kit won’t be bad at all.
Pack your necessary sunscreen, hand sanitizers, sun-hat plus glasses, body creams/lotions of your choice among others.

IMPORTANT: Ask your medical insurance provider if your policy applies overseas for any emergencies.

The main entry point into Kenya is through the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. You have to present your identification documents like passport and depending on the country of origin, a stamped visa. The visa must be obtained prior to the arrival.

IMPORTANT: It is your responsibility to ensure that your passport is valid for a minimum of 6 months and has several clear pages for visas prior to the departure to Kenya.