Kenya
Kenya: The Cradle of Safari
The Ultimate Bespoke Journeys by Beyond Africa Safaris
Kenya is the birthplace of the safari. It offers a romantic, "Out of Africa" charm that is unmatched.
However, it can be crowded. We take you back to the authentic Kenya by trading minivans for open-sided Land Cruisers and public parks for Private Conservancies.
Here, you are a guest, not a tourist.
This is the Beyond Africa difference.
We don't put you in a crowded Masai Mara National Reserve with 50 vehicles circling a single lion. We secure access to private conservancies like Mara North and Ol Pejeta where vehicle numbers are strictly limited, creating an exclusive, intimate safari experience.
From snow-capped mountains to arid deserts, lush savannas to white-sand beaches—Kenya offers the most diverse landscapes and world-leading community conservation programs that directly support local Maasai and Samburu communities.
Why Go?
- Private Conservancies: Areas like Mara North or Ol Pejeta limit vehicle numbers, creating a private viewing experience of the Migration and Big 5.
- Diverse Landscapes: In one trip, you can see snow-capped mountains, arid deserts, lush savannas, and white-sand beaches.
- Conservation: Kenya leads the world in community conservation. Your visit directly supports local Maasai and Samburu communities.
- Accessibility: Nairobi is the best logistics hub in East Africa, making connections easy.
When to Go
July-Oct: The Great Migration
The herds are in the Mara. Peak season for wildlife viewing and river crossings.
Jan-Mar: Dry Season
Excellent for Big Cats and climbing Mount Kenya. Clear skies and great visibility.
Apr-May: Green Season
Beautiful, lush, and quiet, though some camps close due to rain. Lower rates and fewer crowds.
Travel Tips
- Entry: Kenya replaced visas with an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) in 2024. All travelers must apply online 2 weeks before travel.
- Plastic Ban: Kenya has the world's strictest plastic bag ban. Do not bring single-use bags; you will be fined.
- Dress: Mornings in the highlands (Laikipia/Mara) are surprisingly cold. Bring fleece layers.
Where to Go: Kenya's Iconic Destinations
We build your itinerary by linking the legendary Masai Mara, the diverse highlands, and the unique northern frontier.
1. Masai Mara: The Jewel in the Crown
Go for the cats and the Migration.
The Masai Mara is Kenya's premier safari destination, home to the highest density of big cats in Africa and the dramatic river crossings of the Great Migration (July-October). We prioritize private conservancies like Mara North for an exclusive, crowd-free experience.
2. Laikipia: The High-Altitude Playground
A plateau famous for rhinos, wild dogs, and unique activities.
This high-altitude region offers horse riding safaris, helicopter adventures, and some of Kenya's best rhino tracking. Laikipia is perfect for those seeking diverse activities beyond traditional game drives.
3. Amboseli: The Kilimanjaro Backdrop
Famous for massive elephant herds and iconic photography.
Amboseli offers Africa's most iconic wildlife photography—massive elephant herds photographed against the snow-capped backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. A photographer's dream destination.
4. Samburu: The Arid North
Home to the "Special 5" unique species.
The arid landscapes of Samburu host unique species like the Gerenuk, Grevy's Zebra, Reticulated Giraffe, Beisa Oryx, and Somali Ostrich. This northern frontier offers a completely different safari experience with dramatic desert scenery.
Where to Stay: The Curated Portfolio
We partner only with the lodges that offer world-class design, sustainability, and privacy.
1. The Icons of Luxury
- Giraffe Manor: The Instagram icon. Having breakfast with Rothschild's giraffes poking their heads through the window. Must book 12 months in advance.
- Angama Mara: Perched on the Oloololo Escarpment, offering the view from the "Out of Africa" movie poster. Spectacular vistas over the Mara.
- Segera Retreat: An eco-luxury playground in Laikipia with a focus on art, wellness, and conservation. Where luxury meets sustainability.
2. The Conservancy Champions
- Mara Plains Camp (Olare Motorogi): Ultra-exclusive with just 7 tents in a private conservancy. Exceptional guiding and intimate wildlife encounters.
- Lewa Wilderness (Lewa Conservancy): A pioneer in rhino conservation. Stay in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Ol Donyo Lodge (Chyulu Hills): Spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro with private plunge pools and horseback safaris.
3. The Northern Frontier Specialists
- Sasaab (Samburu): Moroccan-inspired luxury on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River. Infinity pool overlooking the wilderness.
- Sarara Camp (Namunyak Conservancy): Remote and exclusive, perfect for tracking desert-adapted elephants and engaging with Samburu culture.
- Tortilis Camp (Amboseli): The best views of Mount Kilimanjaro in Kenya. Classic tented camp with unparalleled elephant encounters.
Best Time to Go: Best: Good:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Kenya Highlights: The Non-Negotiable Experiences
Giraffe Manor
Having breakfast with a Rothschild's giraffe poking its head through the window. This iconic experience is Kenya's most Instagrammable moment and must be booked 12 months in advance.
Helicopter Safari
Flying from Mount Kenya to the jade waters of Lake Turkana. Experience Kenya's incredible landscape diversity from a bird's eye view in this ultimate aerial adventure.
Walking with Rhinos
Tracking black rhinos on foot in the Sera Conservancy. An intimate, adrenaline-filled encounter with one of Africa's most endangered species in their natural habitat.
Maasai Culture
Authentic village visits that go beyond the staged tourist dances. Experience genuine cultural exchange with local Maasai communities who benefit directly from your visit.
Big Cat Tracking in the Mara
The Masai Mara is the jewel in Kenya's crown. Home to the highest density of big cats in Africa, especially during the Great Migration when predator action is at its peak.
Amboseli's Kilimanjaro Views
Photographing massive elephant herds against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Amboseli offers Africa's most iconic wildlife photography opportunities.
What Other Ideas Can I Add To My Kenya Itinerary?
Below are our recommended destinations to add to your Kenya Safari
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