If you have that one goal, one passion for sighting wildlife, then Africa is a beautiful arena of culturally rich wildlife, people, and their culture, worth experiencing in your lifetime. Kenya and Tanzania fit well as the center of African adventure due to their abundant Fauna and thrilling scenery.

 

More often than not, many travelers raise unique objectives for their safari. They include, but are not all, wildlife, Adventure, Honeymoons, Holidays, Photography, and the list is extensive. Incidentally - all these goals can be conveniently met within Kenya and Tanzania. 

 

However, we decided to focus on listing the top places to visit throughout these countries, which are included in our ten-day classic tour for this coveted vacation destination.

 

The museum takes its name from its Danish owner, Karen Blixen, and stands as a marvelous reflection of what Kenya was like many years ago.

 

Where the Karen Blixen Museum is now based, a farm owned by a Danish author, Karen, and her husband once stood. A couple of reasons generated Karen Blixen's fame;

- The release of Karen's autobiography and the eventual film titled Out of Africa  

- Was a donation by the Danish government to the Kenyan government as an independence gift.

 

It is a delight for historians fond of the past. They can tour both the rooms and the grounds, which bear witness to the property's history. All the original equipment from Karen's coffee farm is on display.

 

A few Kilometres from here, you find the Giraffe Centre. This is an established environmental conservation home to the endangered Rothschild's Giraffe.

 

Faced with extinction, the sanctuary has played a significant role in conserving Rothschild's Giraffe subspecies through breeding grounds and public education. One spectacular activity during your visit is to feed these long-necked animals from your hands while learning about the organization's ongoing conservation efforts.

 

The waters here are often colored sparkling flamingo pink from thousands of the attractive birds lining its shores. However, it's worth knowing that this hue is not from the shadow of flamingos gathering in its space but by the water coloration from seasonal changes and continual algae growth.

 

This scenic Phenomenon pairs well with a game drive through the Soysambu Conservancy, home to 15,000 wild animals and green plains stretching thousands of acres.

 

Maasai Mara National Reserve is Kenya's flagship park in the country's southwestern part. It is globally renowned for its exceptional wildlife Phenomenon, the great wildebeest migration. None others like it around the whole globe.

 

Maasai Mara National Reserve is a haven for a vast flora and Fauna. It's the most successfully visited destination in the world, showcasing all the Big 5. The incredible 8th wonder of the world, The Wildebeest Migration, thrills your sight to an unforgettable memory of stampede and survival as wildebeest compete to cross the crocodile-infested Mara River.

 

Up close and personal is often the preferred viewing point for these vast savannahs. However, our tour offers an optional hot air balloon safari to gain a new perspective. This incomparable experience provides an aerial view of the wildlife as they embark on their daily morning escapades through the vast grasslands.

 

Amboseli National Park is in south Kenya, northwest of Mountain Kilimanjaro, on the Kenya/Tanzania borders.

The word Amboseli comes from the Maasai language, meaning "Salty dust'. A safari to Kenya is incomplete without the Amboseli. This is the most popular animal park after the Mara.

 

The park has varied wildlife, from giraffes, cheetahs, and zebras to hundreds of bird species, and its large herd of elephants is one of the best places in the world where you can carry out elephant research plus other documentaries.

 

Part of its charms is that the park is not significant yet; with such a high herbivore population, predators such as the African Lions and Hyenas roam the land looking for easy kills.

 

It sits in the shadow of the scenic view of Mount Kilimanjaro, making it one of the most famous safari destinations in the world. Regarding scenic beauty, Lake Amboseli graces the western part of the park. But the crowning jewel is the magnificent ice-peaked Mount Kilimanjaro, whose imposing presence commands your attention.

 

Tarangire National Park, which lies across the border, has its more extensive part rest in Tanzania. It's often seen as a playground for wild animals and home to august elephant herds.

 

Exploring this countryside during the dry season guarantees a diverse wildlife landscape of elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, cheetahs, and buffalo, as the reserve's Tarangire River provides a permanent water source for its dependent Fauna.

 

As you journey along on your safari, feast your eyes on the massive Baobab trees native to mainland Africa—these skyscrapers of the savanna tower over the terrain as the backdrop to a remarkable safari.

 

Continuing in your pursuit of awe-inspiring views and wildlife, you'll want to visit Tanzania's Lake Manyara National Park. What serves as the quarters for tree-climbing lions, the country's largest elephant population, and countless pink flamingos, the highly acclaimed national park is a one-stop destination for nature lovers.

Adding to its charm is its chipper birdlife, where enthusiasts can easily spot up to 100 species in a single day. This borderless atrium is the perfect place to pull out your binoculars and do some diligent birdwatching.

 

An ultimate Kenya and Tanzania itinerary would not be complete without mention of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the residence of the volcanic Ngorongoro Crater, and highly anticipated animal herds.

 

Give your trip a proper send-off by descending to the crater's floor to gain an even deeper look into the innumerable species in this space. Typical wildlife sightings include the huntsman lions, majestic elephants, striped zebra, and the occasional lucky spotting of the endangered rhino.

 

To truly dig beneath the surface of both Kenya and Tanzania, one must enlist in the activities mentioned earlier and soak in the enriching views accessible only by embarking on a trip hitting all these must-stop highlights.

 

Africa is a continent best explored by opening oneself up to new cultural norms and fearlessly plunging into the diverse landscape and wildlife encounters.

 

 

The unit of currency is the Kenya shilling (KSH). Bank notes are available in denominations of Ksh. 50,100, 200, 500 & 1,000 while Ksh. 1,5,10,20& 40 are available in coins format.

 

Currency can be exchanged in foreign exchange bureaus or banks. Banks operate between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on the first and last Saturdays of the month. The easiest currency to exchange is US Dollars, Starling pounds, and Euro.

A 16% Value Added Tax is levied on most of the items, but visitors can claim a refund on the levy.

 

Major international credit cards are accepted in Kenya, and most automated Teller Machines (ATMs) accept international VISA & MASTERCARD cards. ATMs are found at Airports, bank branches, shopping malls, and petrol stations. Travelers’ cheques are probably the best and easiest way to bring money with you to Kenya, and most hotel and service providers accept them.

 

The standard time zone in Kenya is GMT +3 hours.

 

The official language in Kenya is English, and the National Language is Kiswahili. Most people in the urban areas speak English, while the vast majority in both the urban and rural areas speak Kiswahili.

 

 

AIR – The main airports are the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, Moi International Airport (MIA) in Mombasa, and Eldoret International Airport (EIA) in Eldoret. Wilson Airport in Nairobi Handles light Aircraft and several scheduled and chartered domestic flights. Several Airstrips are located strategically countrywide, connecting all parts of Kenya to Nairobi.

 

Rail – Kenya has only one train service run by Kenya Railways Corporation, dubbed Madaraka Express. The first and second-class coaches have self-contained sleepers with a restaurant. Prior, a reservation is required for both classes. The third class has shared washrooms per room. Trains schedule, and booking portal can be accessed via their link at https://metickets.krc.co.ke/

 

Water– This transport is found only on the coast and the Lake regions. On the coast, ferry services are available at the Likoni ferry connecting the North and South Coast. These services are free for the commuters, but the vehicles are ferried at a fee.

 

road – The extensive road network in Kenya makes road transport the most used mode. Travel within the cities and towns is by the 14-seater matatus and 25-seater minibusses. Transport between cities and towns is by well-established bus companies with regular schedules. Visitors can bring their personal cars to Kenya and receive a three-month free passage at the border.

 

Car Hire – Renting a car is pretty easy in Kenya and is a good and convenient way of getting around the country. There are indeed many car hires in all significant towns and cities and at all the major airports.

 

Visa Requirement – Visitors coming to Kenya from outside East Africa require a Visa. Full details of the requirements are available from the respective mission Offices. However, a single or multiple entry visa can be obtained upon arrival at the Airport.

 

Safety – Most hotels in Kenya have Safes for keeping valuables. It is advisable to avoid walking alone in isolated places and back streets during both day and night. It is also advisable not to adorn valuables or use your mobile phone while walking on the streets.

 

Art & Craft - Kenya is known for the Kiondos & Kikoi, and art and craft artifacts are spread nationwide. The most popular craft materials are beautiful woodcarvings, the Kisii soapstone carvings, various styles of bangles and bracelets, and traditional baskets, all of which make exquisite souvenirs.

 

Others are musical instruments, tribal masks, sculptures, batik cloths, and paintings. These materials are normally found in the numerous craft markets and gift shops throughout the leading trading centers, usually frequented by visitors.

 

Climate – The weather in Kenya is generally excellent and pleasant all year round despite the different topographical regions that experience distinct climates. Kenya is an Equatorial country with slight variations in weather throughout the year.

 

The hottest is between February and March, while the coldest is between July and August. In the Coastal region, the weather is generally humid, with temperatures ranging from 21 degrees to 32 degrees centigrade.

 

The low plateau areas to the North and North East are the driest part of the country, with average temperatures ranging from 19 degrees to 37 degrees centigrade. The temperate highlands, including Nairobi, are generally calmer, with temperatures between 13 and 25 degrees centigrade.

 

Landscape, Flora & Fauna – Kenya offers startling contrasts of landscape and outstanding Natural beauty. There are natural Tourist attractions of the Savannah in the South, the Deserts in the North, Lake Victoria (the 2nd largest freshwater lake) in the west, the topical beaches in the east, and the snowcapped peak of Mount Kenya. The country also boasts more than 80 major species of animals and over 1,000 species of birds.

 

More than 20 National Parks and Game reserves are spread throughout the country – the home tour of Kenya’s abundant wildlife. These include the world-renowned Masai Mara, The Tsavo East & Tsavo West National Park, The Amboseli National Park, The Lake Nakuru National Park, and the Nairobi National Park, which is the only one in the world within the proximity of a capital city.

 

Beaches, Sea & Marine Life – Kenya has a coastline of approximately 536 Km from the Indian Ocean with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The long, white sandy beaches are home to some of the most diverse marine life in the Oceans.

 

There is an abundance of beautiful bright corals and dolphins, butterfly fish, sharks, and turtles, complimented by many yellow and red tuna and snappers.

 

Suppose you are a discerning tourist planning to visit Kenya -. In that case, you will ultimately agree that Kenya is Indeed one of the pristine destinations to visit this year as a first-timer or a repeat visitor.

 

Email us on; info@blavals.com

 

 

 

Before your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend visiting the U.S. Department of State website http://www.travel.state.gov/, specifically the section that addresses International Travel. It would help if you read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries you plan to visit.

 

You must adhere to your guide's instructions to ensure the group's safety while on safari. Your driver/guide will review "safari etiquette" before the first safari, including off-road driving, risks, and animal interaction.

 

The "Big 5" and other wildlife featured in the schedule are based on ideal conditions, but sightings are not guaranteed. Your tour guide will inform you about local safety and environmental precautions to ensure your safety and the preservation of the animals while you are on the excursion.

 

Regular safety measures include staying close to your driver/guide and vehicle, avoiding tall grass, and making as little noise as possible to avoid drawing attention. 

 

Avoid littering, feeding animals, and leaving food waste behind in parks because doing so can disrupt their natural diets and cause them to become reliant on humans. Additionally, kindly refrain from buying, gathering, or removing any rocks, seeds, plants, or nests.

 

Most roads leading to the game viewing locations are unpaved so they will be bumpy and dusty. Large pop-up rooftops or open sides are standard on safari vehicles, making observing wildlife from all directions simple.

 

There is no air conditioning in safari vehicles, which is ideal for game drives. You have an allocation of bottled water to drink during the game drive. Seatbelts are a requirement on public highways and are installed in vehicles.

 

Although safari vehicles generally move slowly, drivers warn passengers of bumps or potholes, and many passengers may decide not to buckle up; it is nevertheless highly advised to do so. When the car is moving, everyone inside should stay seated. 

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WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TRAVEL.

 

Your travel Manager usually handles most of your planning and preparation bit. Still, you are advised to know that you must address a few peculiar things to ensure your comfort, safety, and peace of mind. Please read through to identify the completeness of your checklist to avoid hiccups in your trip.

Find out the countries you are traveling to if they require a Visa; if so, do you have it ready? Also, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond travel dates. 

Make your passport applications at regional Passport Agencies and U.S. Post Offices. U.S. passport should be valid for at least six months beyond travel dates.

 

Please click here for assistance applying for a U.S. Passport and relevant processing services.

Most visas are best obtained before traveling to your destination. Therefore, you should make prior arrangements with the appropriate foreign consular representative to allow enough time between processing and the travel date.

 

There is, however, a fee-based service such as GEN VISA, which may help you obtain a visa should you wish to avoid the hustle of learning the curve. (NB: GEN VISA cannot assist travelers who have made their direct application for a Visa.)

 

Please find the details for the various countries based on the U.S. State Department information.

This information, however, is subject to change without notice.

 

Therefore, please check with the consular office of the countries you plan to visit and click here for updates.

U.S. citizens, nationals, and permanent residents may opt to join the TSA PreCheck Program.

 

The initial enrollment fee is $85, and the renewal fee is $70.

TSA PreCheck Program offers a lot more convenience to travelers by saving time and avoiding lines when going through security at U.S. airports.

 

In addition, you will not be required to remove certain items from your luggage or personal, such as shoes, belts, laptops, and liquids.

Membership is valid for five years. For more information and to apply, please click here.

 

If you are a U.S. citizen, national, permanent resident, and travel abroad often, the CBP Global Entry Program may be an option for you to join. Membership is valid for five years; enrollment and renewal fees are $100.

 

It overrides the benefits of access to TSA PreCheck lines, where program members will additionally access the Global Entry kiosks.

This will, to a large extent, save time and avoid lines when returning to the U.S.

 

For more information and to apply, please click here.

 

Some itineraries might involve entering a country, leaving, and then later re-entering the same country. In such a case, you will require a double-entry or multiple-entry visa.

When contacting a foreign consular representative, describe your itinerary clearly.

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NON - U.S. CITIZENS.

 

All non-U.S. citizens are advised to check with the appropriate foreign consular representative.

 

The type of visa needed depends on the itinerary. Travelers to Kenya must provide a reference for their visa, including name, address, and phone number. To apply for a visa, click here and follow the instructions.

 

For more information, click here.

 

There are two types of visas, single entry and East Africa Tourist Visa. Please find your tour below to ensure you purchase the correct one.

 

The eVisa costs $51 and must be obtained in advance. You will await approval via email (approx. two days), then download and print the eVisa to be presented upon entry to Kenya. The eVisa is valid for three months before travel.

 

Applicable on the following tours: 7 Day Classic Kenya, 10 Day Classic Kenya & Tanzania, 11 Day Kenya Safari Exploration, 16 Day Kenya Safari Exploration with Zanzibar.

 

The East Africa Tourist Visa costs $101 and must be obtained in advance. This will allow travelers to enter Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda multiple times.

 

You will await approval via email (approx. two days), then download and print the eVisa to be presented upon entry to Kenya. The eVisa is valid for three months before travel.

 

Please note: The East Africa Tourist Visa can be used as a multi-entry visa for Kenya.

 

Kenya Airways, Kenya's flagship carrier, announced direct flights from the USA to Kenya beginning in October 2018.

However, several airlines offer itineraries to Kenya, and their bookings are all available online for your convenience. We have shared the most commonly used carriers with you, but this is not to limit you. Your discretion is allowed.

 

 You may not necessarily call your airline to reconfirm your Flight, but we recommend you check your airline's website 24 hours before your flight to ensure that your flights remain on schedule and that flight times are unchanged.

 

Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26 "+26 "+10" = 62") and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg).

 

Lost luggage and missed connections are more frequent than ever. We urge you to pack the items you would be without if your checked bags were lost in your carry-on bag.

 

Prescription medications, eyeglasses, a change of clothes, a mobile phone and charger, valuables (including jewelry and cash), a passport, keys, insurance cards, and local contact information are a few things to remember.

 

Additionally, we advise you to pack a change of clothing in your carry-on suitcase if your luggage is delayed or misplaced.

 

Please pack your items in a soft-sided duffel bag and pack lightly due to the constrained space in safari vehicles. Using conventional luggage with rigid frames or hard plastic panels is not recommended.

 

Please be aware that there is an environmental prohibition on single-use plastic bags.

 

There is a 50 lb (23kg). There is a weight limit per piece of luggage on flights between Kenya, mainland Tanzania, and Zanzibar, and each passenger is only allowed one piece of checked baggage.

 

There is a 33 lb. per person limit on luggage weight for domestic flights in Uganda, including hand luggage.

 

When planning your vacation, keep in mind that these regulations differ from those for foreign flights when it comes to luggage restrictions.

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Arrive On Time.  

Due to additional security checks, you should plan to check in at least three hours before the scheduled departure time for international flights and two hours before the scheduled departure time for domestic flights.

 

Many airlines don't let passengers check in any later than one hour before the departure time. You are responsible for being on time for all flights that are planned.

All flights into the United States now have enhanced security measures in place, including passenger screening, dog inspections, and inspections of passengers' electronic devices. As a result, security checks may take longer than usual.

 

They are connecting Passengers. Connecting passengers from other U.S. locations should check their bags at their final destination. Some airlines do not permit the "interlining" of checked bags; each destination flight's luggage is checked separately.

 

Returning travelers to the USA might need to pick up their luggage at the first airport of entry and recheck it for their subsequent flights.

 

Please finish all immigration procedures upon arrival and retrieve your bags. Check your voucher for detailed instructions if your program involves airport arrival shuttles, as they differ depending on the destination.

 

A local representative with a company sign and a sign with your name on it will meet you once you pick up your bags or leave Customs. 

We kindly suggest that you give our representative 30 minutes extra time from the time of your booked transfer due to local traffic and other unavoidable situations.

Transfers to and from the airport are included.

 

It would help if you didn't worry about being late for your tour because such potential delays are considered when booking transfers.

 

If you are waiting for a transfer from a hotel, let the concierge or reception desk know. If a transfer is missed, you may be reimbursed for your out-of-pocket charges if you provide a documented statement from the hotel's front desk attesting to your wait time, departure time, and a receipt for your transportation with a time and date.

 

The number of participants on your trip may change as we accommodate visitors at various points along the schedule. Some participants will leave Nairobi after the tour in Kenya, while others will travel to Tanzania to extend their vacation.

 

Each hotel is chosen carefully, considering its overall quality, location, cost, food, service, and cleanliness. Standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private bathrooms are available in every room.

 

Special requests, such as preferred smoking areas, connecting rooms, and particular types of beds, are subject to availability. Unless otherwise specified, choosing a room is always entirely up to the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. 

Some camps and lodges rely on generators to supply electricity, which may not always be available.

 

Travelers using power-dependent devices must inform the travel manager in advance so that arrangements can be made to keep them plugged in through the night.

Hotel check-in times are typically after 4:00 p.m., and check-out times are before midday. Hotels will generally let you store your stuff in their luggage room if you arrive early or leave late.

 

If the hotel can check you in earlier or let you stay later, inquire at the front desk.

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Gratuities.

Tipping is always an individual decision. 

 

Where applicable, gratuities may be paid in the equivalent of U.S. dollars or local currency. 

 

Please be advised that many locals view tips as a part of their standard pay, and some may approach you asking for further "compensation." You shouldn't feel frightened by the request or compelled to pay more than is suggested. 

 

Please inform your tour manager or contact our office if any behavior makes you uncomfortable. For your convenience, numbers are provided in your documents.

 

Please refer to the summary below for a suggested tipping scale.

 

Safari Driver/Guide: U.S. $10 per person per day

Hotel porters and wait staff: Included

 

Kenya - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists and on safaris. Hotels and restaurants frequented mainly by tourists often add a gratuity to your bill; additional tipping is at your discretion.

 

Tanzania - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places catering to tourists and safaris.

 

There is a required seat rotation policy on our Customized Tour Vehicles, which your Tour Manager will coordinate to ensure that travelers on tour-guided safaris have a positive and equitable experience.

 

During the tour-guided safaris, the guides may market optional tours to visitors who haven't already made a reservation for them. Unless otherwise specified, payment may be made in cash or by credit card.

 

This does not cover Independent packages. 

 

The schedule might suggest things to do in your free time, but this is not a recommendation or an endorsement of any particular vendor. 

Participation in such activities should only be decided upon voluntarily and carefully. 

 

Any activities not explicitly mentioned in your program are not the responsibility of the travel manager. 

 

When choosing specific activities involving physical exertion, coordination, or strength, caution should be used. More caution should be exercised when considering animal rides, such as those on camels, mules, or horses.

Before you leave your country, we advise that you get a small quantity of currency for the first country you'll be visiting. A smart strategy is to avoid carrying too much cash.

ATMs accept most ATM cards in many countries but only in the local currency.

Even while credit cards are generally accepted, having local cash on hand is still a good idea. Let your credit card issuer know you will be traveling to prevent your card from being stopped for security concerns.

Most tourists like to bring back at least one souvenir from their travels. However, some people consider shopping excessive, and others never seem to have enough possibilities.

 

Our itinerary has included a few shopping points at suggested locations. These stops are intended to improve your experience by allowing you to buy high-quality, locally-made goods that you might not be able to locate alone. We restrict our guides from visiting other shops as we verify shops to ensure the caliber and authenticity of the goods they sell.

 

Sometimes, we schedule these stops to allow you to use hygienic restrooms and stretch your legs. 

 

All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult your healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov), and the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations.

You can take several easy steps to stay healthy while traveling, which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.

 

Try new foods in modest quantities, and depending upon your destination, you may want to avoid street foods, salad bars, raw vegetables, and fruits unless they have thick peels like bananas or grapefruit.

 

Drink bottled water and avoid consuming ice cubes made with tap water.

 

If you are allergic to foods, medications, or insect bites or have any other unique medical issues, consider a medical alert bracelet and a physician's note detailing required treatment should you become ill.

 

Wash your hands regularly and carry hand sanitizer.

 

Pack sunscreen and insect repellent (for active and warm destinations).

 

You may also want to bring a small first-aid kit with band-aids, antibiotic cream, pain killers, bug bite cream, digestive aids like antidiarrheal or anti-bloat medications, antacids, and cold medicine.

 

This is in addition to any prescription medications, which should be adequate for the entire trip.

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You should see your doctor 4-6 weeks before your trip. Malaria is present throughout Kenya. The CDC recommends that malaria prophylaxis and preventative measures be taken when traveling in Kenya.

 

Travelers are encouraged to wear insect repellent and clothing that adequately covers arms and legs. Passengers traveling to Kenya must carry proof of yellow fever vaccination if traveling through or from a country with a risk of yellow fever.

 

Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food, water precautions, and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747) or via the CDC website.

 

The World Health Organization (WHO) website is also helpful and provides information on outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad.

 

Kenya has 54 National parks, enabling Kenya to be referred to as the "home of the safari." Visitors and tourists experience the best Kenyan safaris in these parks.

These National Parks and reserves are major tourist attractions and have national parks spreading over various parts of the country.

The pristine and vast scenic landscapes, plus the many wildlife and bird life, are the prime reasons for making Kenya famous. With over 1,000 bird species, both native and migratory, combined with the Big Five (Elephant, Lion, Buffalo, Rhino, and Leopard), the endangered species, and the marine life, you are assured of the experience of your life.

 

A visit to a Kenyan jungle enables you to see all the prominent five members within as short as a 3-day Kenya wildlife safari package. 

Kenya is also known for its picturesque and pristine award-winning beaches, with a coastline measuring 300 miles, translating into a lot of varied marine life exposure during your visit. 

 

One of these is the award-winning Diani Beach, which has been voted Africa's leading beach destination for the sixth time in a row by the World Travel Awards.

On a beach holiday in Kenya, you will see the Whale shark, the Octopus, Stingrays, and over 1000 species of Fish.

Kenya has over 54 National parks and Reserves and the award-winning Diani Beach.

The most popular destination in Kenya among the 54 National Parks and reserves is the award-winning Maasai Mara National Park, one of the best places to go on Kenya's wildlife safari.

 

You will experience the great wildebeest migration, which was named the 8th wonder of the world in 2007, the Big Five, Hot air balloon safaris, and game drives, among other activities like interacting and learning the culture of the Masai tribe.

January, February, and July to October are the best times to travel to Kenya for wildlife safari. These seasons are dry – hot and cool, respectively.

 

This draws animals to water points and offers conducive road conditions to navigate the weather roads to and inside the parks.

November, December, and April to June are the short and long rainy months.

 

However, the Mara is excellent for animal viewing all year round. Masai Mara comprises the National Reserve and the greater conservancies.

During the low season, we recommend booking a 5 to 6-day Masai Mara safari that takes you to Amboseli National Park and Maasai Mara.

 

This way, you have a good chance of seeing most Kenyan animals, including the big five and the big cats.

 

 

City		Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Nairobi, Kenya	Low	63	64	66	68	66	63	63	63	64	66	66	63
	High	77	78	77	75	73	73	72	72	74	78	76	80
Samburu, Kenya	Low	75	75	73	75	73	73	70	70	73	73	75	80
	High	88	88	87	85	82	82	80	84	84	85	85	90
Masai Mara, Kenya	Low	63	64	66	68	66	63	63	63	64	66	66	63
	High	81	81	81	80	80	78	77	77	78	80	81	81

 

The weather in Kenya varies according to geographical area. Generally, the weather is warm, with cooler weather in the early morning and evenings.

The hottest is from February to March, and the coolest is from July to August.

 

The rainy season is from April to June, and short rains occur from October to December.

Bring comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather jacket.

 

Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are also recommended. A bandanna or light scarf is recommended as protection against dust and dirt on game drives.

Pack a DEET-based repellant to prevent mosquito bites.

 

On game reserves, visitors should wear neutral colors like brown, khaki, and beige.

 

In some areas, mainly along the coast, wearing shorts or short-sleeved shirts is inappropriate.

 

To blend and be immersed with the visited environment, choices for neutral colors, particularly khaki or tan, are advised during your safari.

 

Your dressing mode also significantly impacts optimizing your game-viewing experience and should not distract or scare away the animals.

 

We invite you to contact us to book your wildlife Safari in Kenya or a combination of the best of Kenya's wildlife safari packages and beach holidays.

 

Mobile networks differ from country to country.

 

We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. You may want to consider purchasing an international plan to avoid roaming charges.

 

With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home.

 

If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype.

 

When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a "+254" sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number.

Wi-Fi is available in most airports, hotels, on some flights, trains, and buses.

 

There may be an access fee, and service quality and speed may vary significantly, especially while on moving vehicles.

 

NB: Wi-Fi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries.

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The highlight of a Kenya safari Masai Mara package planned with us between July and November is witnessing the dramatic Masai Mara Wildebeest Migration.

 

The event is called the most significant land migration on earth and is one of the most thrilling, adventurous, and spectacular displays of wildlife behavior.

During the annual event, over 1.2 million wildebeests, 200,000 zebras, and different antelope species migrate from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to the MaasaiMara in search of green pastures.

 

The migrating animals make a round trip from the southern edges of the Serengeti National Park, across the Grumeti and the Mara River, into Kenyan Masai Mara before returning to Southern Serengeti.

 

The actual Mara River crossing occurs between May and July, and it is incredibly awe-inspiring, magical, and indescribable. The Masai Mara Serengeti wildebeest migration is a must-witness for lovers of Mother Nature.

 

If you will only plan one Maasai Mara package, it should be a Serengeti migration safari or Mara river crossing tour.

Compared to the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, the Mara offers the best view of the migrating animals traveling across the crocodile-infested river.

 

 

The animals migrate on a round trip in search of food. Between December and March each year, the animals will be on the southern edges of the Serengeti.

This is the calving season, and it climaxes around January to the end of February, when about 8,000 calves are born daily.

 

The calving season attracts a lot of predators to the Southern plains of Serengeti as they eye an opportunity to make an easy meal for the vulnerable calves.

Driving around the plain in our luxurious 4×4 safari land cruisers, you will effortlessly spot 100s of hyenas, dozens of pride of lions, cheetahs, leopards, and other predators scattered in the Savannah grassland.

 

Hint: Masai Mara packages during these months are ideal for Big Five safaris. You will also see all the other animals. However, the wildebeest migration is the heart of your safari; Serengeti is the better option.

 

The calving season provides the best chance of survival for the young Wildebeest. Any calves born outside the calving season are far more likely to fall victim to predators.

 

 

                                               Activity                                                             Approximate Time.                                    Place

Calving	January To March (Low Season	Southern Serengeti
Intense Big Cat Action	January To March (Low Season	Southern Serengeti
Rutting	January To March (Low Season	Southern Serengeti
River Crossings	July to October (High Season)	Northern Serengeti - Masai Mara
Private Game Viewing (Tanzania)	June To August (High Season)	Grumeti
Personal Game Viewing (Kenya)	August To October (High Season)	Mara Conservancies

 

 

As April approaches, the migration will have moved from the Southern end of Serengeti towards the park's center.

The animals continue moving, and around June, they will be looking to cross the Mara River into Masai Mara National Park in Kenya.

But how do the Wildebeest determine the direction to follow? One popular theory is that the animals move in response to changes in weather and availability in pastures.

 

Around the end of the calving season, early March, the pastures in the southern Serengeti dwindle.

The animals then start the trip towards MasaiMara in response to the availability of green pasture and rain patterns.

Some behavior scientists argue that the Wildebeest and other animals can identify and react to thunderstorms and lightning.

Another popular theory is that the wildebeests instinctively know which path to follow.

 

According to this theory, the path to follow is hard-coded into their DNA through centuries of natural selection, and that is how the herd knows which route to track.

The Wildebeest that initially headed in the wrong direction would have died long before they could give birth, and only the ones that followed the correct route have lived to produce future generations.

 

Note that the great wildebeest migration does not move in a straight line.

Unless you plan your Masai Mara migration safari with local tour operators such as MasaiMarasafari.in or safari lodges within the Serengeti or Masai Mara, it can be hard to know when and where to see the herd.

 

If you have eyes on witnessing the Mara River crossing, book a long Kenya safari in Masai Mara, such as this 13-day Kenya safari package.

You can also book shorter Masai Mara holiday packages, but wait until the animals start crossing to Masai Mara to travel to Kenya.

This 3-day Masai Mara budget safari is a good plan for those who want to travel cheaply.

 

The crossing is the most exciting part of the migration. Millions of grazers advance north from western Serengeti and cross into Kenya's Maasai Mara Game Reserve, hoping for the rains.

 

The Great Migration route is cut at various points by rivers.

These include the Mbalangeti and Grumeti rivers in Serengeti and the Mara River. These rivers remain placid for most of the year, only becoming raging during the wet months.

 

When that happens, the resultant flooding presents significant obstacles to the crossing herds.

But what makes the migrating herds dread these rivers and other few lakes within the Serengeti isn't their sheer water volumes. Instead, it's the hundreds of savage Nile crocodiles that rule the waters.

Besides, the vegetation around the rivers and lakes tends to comprise high grass and thickets, just the perfect hideouts for some of the Wildebeest's fiercest predators.

However, the animals banish their fears and follow their instincts to cross over. Some lakes south of Serengeti include Masek, Ndutu, and Lagaria.

As most of the migrating herds crossed these lakes en route to the Serengeti, the waters don't pose much threat to their journey back.

Also, natural selection dictates that those who didn't make it further bolstered the herds' gene pool.

 

As such, most animals priming to cross over are more robust, healthier, and adaptable to these harsh conditions.

In one documentary that captures the essence of this iconic migration, The Year of the Wildebeest, the filmmaker, Alan Root, tries to paint a clearer picture of the entire situation.

 

Mr. Root narrates how he observed as thousands of wildebeests crossed Lake Lagaria.

In his experience, he noted that the crossing took over in various phases, with the first phase featuring the main body of the herd.

 

He also observed that the cows that became separated from their calves would instinctively turn back to look for them, urging them to plunge and swim over to the other side.

 

The same happened to the very old, young, and other strugglers.

This cycle repeated for up to a week until all the animals found themselves on the other side. Mr. Root adds that the crossing claimed thousands of Wildebeest in the lake.

 

The resident crocodiles tore some into pieces, while others fell victim to the ensuing stampede.

However, Alan remarks that the fatalities pale compared to the size of the herds that managed to cross over and the number of calves that were born on the other side.

 

In his view, the wildebeest population could spiral out of control if such unfortunate events didn't occur. The Wildebeest proceed to the Mara River in their thousands, ready to cross.

 

But the spectacle doesn't begin on the arrival of the first herds. Mostly, the animals would come to the river, drink, and wander away.

However, their numbers keep building up as they graze near the river.

 

Eventually, the herds identify a crossing point, usually a relatively calm stretch of water featuring less predator-concealing vegetation.

However, the herds are known to commit grave errors, most times choosing deeper water spots that see them drown in their hundreds. Experts believe this could be because the crossing points remain genetically imprinted in the minds of the herds.

 

Also, it's important to note that certain fords attract larger herds than others.

That could be because they're visible from afar, and the animals can see their kind in the process of crossing over.

 

Or, they feature more lush greenery on the other side, which is the main attraction of the herds anyway. Click here for a list of the best Serengeti hotels during the migration.

 

Hint: Masai Mara safari cost is highest during the annual wildebeest migration. Try and book your safari 3 to 2 months in advance. Otherwise, you will miss the best hotels/rooms.

 

As soon as the Wildebeest make it to the Maasai Mara grasslands, they spend months grazing, fattening, and reproducing. The animals especially love the Mara for its scattered distribution of green pastures as well as fewer cases of rainstorms.

 

That makes them wander freely across the expansive park, searching for good grazing areas. It remains mystical how wildebeest herds can walk miles away from each other but still reunite at specific grazing spots.

 

Wildebeests are physiologically designed to traverse vast land faster and more economically. That's why you'll see them mating on the move.

Besides, their calves are born ready to outrun some of the savannah's fastest predators. So, it's usually only a matter of time before they overrun every green pasture of the Mara.

 

Since the wildebeest herds are always on the move, they can also outmarch many of their predators. That's because most predators are territorial, and will only hunt herds that graze within their patches.

 

Abandoning their territories in pursuit of the fast-moving herds would mean invading the territories of other predators.

Besides, most younger members of predatory animals depend on their mothers till they're a couple of years old. That makes it unrealistic for the mothers to hunt beyond specific stretches.

 

 

The primary activity during a safari in Masai Mara safari is game drives. Our expert Masai guides will take you on game drives atop a custom-made safari land cruiser with an open roof for optimal game viewing.

 

They are vastly knowledgeable about the savannah and the animals that call it home and are happy to share this knowledge with you. Wildlife lectures are always part of our safari.

 

Most game drives will start early in the morning, which is a great time to view animals as they go out for breakfast. Bring your camera along; this is usually the best time to witness a hunt.

 

Depending on the day's program, your driver will return you to your camp for lunch and afternoon rest before embarking on an evening game drive.

Ideally, morning and evening game drives with a return to the hotel are ideal for families traveling with kids below five years old.

Most people prefer a full-day game drive with a picnic lunch. This allows them to venture deep into the Mara.

 

On a full day of the game drive, we usually leave the hotel at 6:15 a.m. after an early breakfast with a packed lunch. We do the game drives, and around 1:00 pm, the driver finds a nice place, possibly under a tree, and we have the picnic lunch there.

We then continued with our game drives till around 6:00 p.m.

 

If you are touring the Masai Mara between July and October, without a doubt, the showstopper is the great wildebeest migration.

Be on the front row as millions of Wildebeest, zebras, impalas, and antelopes make the dangerous crossing from the Serengeti into the Masai Mara.

The drama unfolds as they try to escape from the sharp jaws of hungry crocodiles in the water below.

 

Another must-do activity that we recommend that you include in your Masai Mara tour package is a balloon safari. It is one thing to see the greatness of the Mara from land and quite another from the air.

 

It is majesty that cannot be fully explained, only experienced.

At the end of the one-hour dawn balloon safari, you will indulge in a champagne breakfast, a fitting end to one of the most exhilarating adventures you will ever undertake.

 

A Masai Mara tour package from Kolkata, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, or any other part of India is incomplete without interacting with the intriguing Masai people.

During your visit, we will take you to a Masai village where you can learn about their culture.

 

These include what they eat, how they construct their homes, colorful beads, and, of course, you must try the famous Masai jump.