Kenya Safari
Some Things You Need to Know
Many people dream of embarking on a safari adventure in Africa with up-close observations of majestic wildlife meandering across the grassy plains, breathtaking scenery, magnificent lakes and an ever welcoming people. If this remarkable and unforgettable journey is for you, then Kenya is definitely the place to go. It is the home of the African safari, boasting an abundance of amazing natural spectacles, animals, and activities.
With an organized expedition and an expert guide, there is plenty to see and experience throughout your stay in this beautiful country. Need to know more? Here is a quick Q&A rundown of everything you need to know about Kenya as an African safari destination:
Wildlife in Kenya
Where is Kenya?
Kenya lies on the east coast of Africa, bordering the Indian Ocean to the southeast. Its neighboring countries include Uganda, Ethiopia, Somalia, Tanzania, and South Sudan. With an area of 224,961 square miles (582,650 sq. km.), the country is about twice the size of Nevada in the US and somewhat larger than Metropolitan France.
Kenya has a tropical climate and an estimated population of 46 million people as of 2015. Official languages are Swahili and English, but there are several indigenous languages mainly Luhya and Kikuyu. Its national capital is the vibrant city of Nairobi, while its chief port is Mombasa.
How Do I Get There?
Most visitors get to Kenya through Nairobi at Jomo Kenyatta Airport. Several major airlines, including Kenya’s own, Kenya Airways offer flights from Europe, the United States, Asia, Australia, the Middle East, and of course other African countries.
POSSIBLE TOURISM BARRIERS
- Post-stigma of being an unsafe destination due to the widely-covered political unrest in the past
- Huge crowds during peak seasons. Some travelers experience seeing more vehicles than animals at some point.
- High malaria risk in all areas including game parks.
Is Kenya the Best Place to See the Big 5?
The Maasai Mara triangle is one of the best places to witness up close the majesty of the Big 5 in their natural habitat. These are the lions, leopards, elephants, cape buffaloes, and rhinos (both black and white). Lake Nakuru and the Lewa conservancy also play host to these magnificent beasts.
Why Kenya over other Safari Destinations
Africa is a beautiful continent and is home to some of the best travel destinations in the world. Other countries like Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo DRC also have fantastic safaris, so here’s why you should choose Kenya over them:
AFFORDABILITY
A safari in Kenya is generally cheaper than in Tanzania. Group joining safari is also common here.
STABILITY
Kenya is one of the most advanced East African countries in terms of infrastructure, economic and socio-political stability.
EASE OF TRAVEL
You can get your visa when you arrive. Accommodation options are also plentiful, ranging from budget types to all-out luxurious.
FAVORABLE CLIMATE
Kenya is a tropical paradise! It is sunny all year round with just the right amount of rainfall to maintain its lush landscapes and give water to its wealth of wildlife.
NATURAL WONDERS
Home to a couple of World UNESCO Heritage Sites, Kenya along with Tanzania, also hosts the Great Migration – the greatest spectacle on earth.
PRE AND POST SAFARI ACTIVITIES
Nairobi, the take-off point for safaris is a vibrant city with modern malls and interesting nightlife to enjoy
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