Where Kenya Safari Tours Begins...

Sometimes, it may be hard to get the perfect safari in Africa as there are many destinations and options including Kenya safari cost. Over the years, Kenya has been identified as among the best destinations to travel owing to different factors attributing to it. Kenya boasts an extensive network of protected zones comprising 65 national parks and game reserves.

Some of the most prominent parks in Kenya include Masai Mara, Amboseli, Aberdares, Lake Nakuru, and both Tsavo East and West National Park.

The Great Migration at Glance

Kenya is part of the World’s famous Great Wildebeest Migration where over 1.5 million wildebeest 400,000 zebras, 12,000 eland, and 30,000 Grant’s and Gazelle trek annually from the Southern Serengeti to the Masai Mara ecosystem. This year-long animal activity is a great phenomenon with its timing being pegged on various dynamic factors including weather and the animals themselves. In summary, the migration happens because of rain.This migration is unique as it is a circular movement between the Serengeti and Masai Mara in search of greener pastures, water, and minerals.

Highlights of the Great Migration

As the great Migration happens every year in July, the Wildebeests, Zebras, and Gazelles are met by lethal predators along the way. Apart from threats from big cats, the herds are also faced with the threat of over 3000 crocodiles marking along the muddy riversides of the Mara River.

To say the least, witnessing the fragile herds jumping blindly to the crocodile-infested river Mara is just spectacular to see just before they are rewarded with the greener pastures of the open Masai Mara National Reserve.

For short times, life in Mara becomes better not until the pastures dwindles when they also move away to find better pastures.

Why go to Kenya on Safari?

Kenya is home to over 54 game reserves and national parks and is often considered globally the best tourist destination in Africa due to the number of animals.

Kenya also has diverse landscapes that sweep across vast savannahs and mountains, which makes safari in Kenya an unforgettable experience.

The Masai Mara alone has a population of 900 lions and 2500 elephants according to the latest data and is part of the same ecosystem as the Serengeti of Tanzania.

The Amboseli is quite famous for its elephants with huge tasks, commonly referred to as tuskers with the beautiful views of Mount Kilimanjaro in the background. Tsavo on the other hand is one of the biggest Parks while Lake Nakuru National Park is known for its flamingos and white rhinos. Besides the amazing wildlife, it is quite easy to reach Kenya. In Africa, Nairobi is one of the busiest airports.

Kenya’s airport is the major transport hub in the entire East Africa.

How Much Does Kenya Safari Cost?

Although safari is not a cheap holiday option, it is a once-in-a-lifetime event that you will remember forever. Kenya is not one of the cheapest safari destinations, but it is worth every penny.

Some key Kenya safari highlights include the Great Migration at Masai Mara, Mount Climbing at Mt Kenya National Park, the hot springs of Lake Bogoria, and the Flamingoes and white rhino of Lake Nakuru National Park.

To start with, let us see the last park increase in some of the Kenya parks and how it will have an impact on your overall cost of safari.

Starting January 2024, park fees in Masai Mara national reserve Increased by 100%.

The consensus of park fee increase in Masai Mara is because the parks nowadays get too busy with safaris. Therefore, through the wisdom of KWS and Narok Country, it was decided to increase park fees in order to reduce numbers while at the same time maintaining the same income level to protect the park.

With the parking fee being around 30% of the safari cost, therefore each safari package would likely increase by the same percentage. For instance, if per day at Mara was costing $300 then it would be increased by $90 to become $390.

To lower the cost of the overall safari, most tour operators would lower the number of days being spent on major National parks such as Masai Mara.

Even though having a high price is not something to celebrate, this one has the benefit of having a better experience in the park as it will now be less crowded enhancing better wildlife viewing opportunities.

Alternatively, it can be rewarding to spend more time at less expensive parks such as Lake Nakuru National Park, Amboseli, and Tsavo and have a better wildlife experience at affordable rates.

While park fees can increase the overall cost of a safari, other factors also include the comfort level of the safari.

East African Safaris are divided into three, Budget & camping, mid-range, and Luxury (With Luxury plus).

Comfort levels mostly refer to accommodations but can also affect the transportation means with mini busses and pop-up roof vans being commonly used at the lower end while Landcruiser and safari jeeps are widely used by high-end and luxury users.

For each of the 3 different comfort levels, I will analyze each of them and show the cost when booking each of them through the DIY(Do It Yourself) approach. This is for anyone interested in Private safari -Self-drive, Group Joining, shared safaris, Local companies, and international companies.

Kenya Budget Safari at Glance

Kenya Budget safari is the cheapest way to experience the typical Kenyan safari where you get to drive through the national parks and view wildlife.

Within the budget safari type, there is also budget camping and budget lodges. Budget camps are those that are semi-permanent and basic tents that are comfortable with private bathrooms.

Check on:Kenya short Stay Safari packages

If you opt for group sharing safari, then most likely you will have budget camping as an accommodation option. These types of safaris are organized by local tour operators on fixed dates, typically 3-6 days.

This type of safari is perfect for solo travelers as they lack the flexibility and comfort of private safaris and can start anywhere from $400.

If in case you are more in number say 2 or more, the cost becomes more affordable as you will be sharing fixed costs such as driver/guide, with other people on the same safari.

Difference Between Budget and Mid-Range

The most common difference between the two is the choice of accommodation and type of safari vehicle. Most probably if you are on a budget safari you will move between parks using the road as internal flights are quite expensive.

The difference between Kenya and Tanzania budget safaris which makes it affordable is that Kenya parks allow for minibuses and safari vans in the parks whereas the Tanzania counterpart only allows Land cruisers which makes Tanzania budget safari more expensive.

When comparing budget and mid-range safaris, accommodation options create the biggest difference. The options available can range from small tents and sleeping bags for group camping to comfortable tented camps with private bathrooms.

The Mid-range of accommodation options are comfortable, have bigger rooms and private space.

Mid -Range- Safari Cost

In Kenya, mid-range safari are the most popular and widely used and affects Kenya safari cost in many ways. In my opinion, Mid-range safari is the best option as they are just 30% higher than the budget option. This type of safari offers a higher standard of accommodation, with comfortable beds having private bathrooms.

Since the amount of money being spent on Park fees is higher, then it would make sense to spend a little more ranging from $74 to $100 per person daily, and have fantastic accommodation.

Also, you will have a spacious land cruiser option just for the two of you for a more experienced safari.

Check on: 3 Days Kenya Safari

Luxury Kenya Safari Cost

Kenya has a lot more variety of Luxury safari options with incredible safari accommodation options.

The luxury safari booking through a local tour operator may cost anything between $600 per adult daily to $1500 and can go up to $5,000 and beyond.

With the option of having chartered flights, the long drives between parks are cut off and now you can have 2 daily game drives inside luxurious parks.

When you choose an international travel agent, the cost might be a little bit higher as you will be paying off overhead costs on top of making profits.

In most cases, the luxury safari option perception is sold as the end consumer may not be price sensitive and may be thinking will have additional value than the rest options of safaris.

What to pack when going for your Kenya safari tours can be a daunting experience for anyone. This is because what you pack can make or break your safari and that is why, you need to consider things like the weather, local culture, comfort, activities and your taste in fashion. I will share items that you can’t miss to pack and documents as well. In terms of climate and weather, Kenya lies on the equator and has favourable climatic conditions for a safari adventure, however, if you visit in the rainy and cold season, you need to have comfortable shoes, a raincoat jacket, and warm clothes. If you are going on a safari in the dry season, light clothes such as t-shirts, vests, shorts, sun glasses and hats are highly recommended. In terms of clothes colors, it is advised to avoid bright and black colors and look for colors that blend well with nature and ones that won’t make wild animals feel like they are in a new territory. You can carry flip flops, for roaming around your lodge, but once you are out for a game drive, sturdy shoes are the best. Other accessories that will make your trip memorable include a good camera equipment, sun screen, bug repellant, a pair of binoculars, a scarf or bandana to protect you from dust, especially if you are in a 4×4 vehicle with an open roof for game viewing. Ensure you bring along at least 3 pairs of lightweight trousers, ones that are breathable and can also dry quickly. Stick to keeping your suitcase light and only with the most essential items. Go for what is functional, practical, layered and with suitable clothes versus what is most fancy or most expensive.

What Shoes to Wear on Safari in Kenya?

Wearing the appropriate footwear is a significant step towards planning Kenya safari tours. As most safari activities take place in early mornings during game drives, walks through lodges, or in some cases guided bush walks, comfortable and practical shoes are crucial.

For most Kenya safari holidays, lightweight closed-toe walking shoes or sneakers are the most appropriate shoes to wear. These types of shoes are comfortable when on long game drives, and protect your legs from dust, bugs, and rough terrain around camps or lodges. It is advisable to wear neutral colors, such as brown, green, or beige, as they are more likely to blend into the natural terrain and wildlife is less likely to notice them.

If your Kenya safari tours includes walking safaris or nature walks, then trail or hiking shoes with good grip are ideal. Trail or hiking shoes help you to walk well on rocky trails, sandy paths, or grassy plains that are common in most national parks, such as the Amboseli, Tsavo, and the Masai Mara.

Travellers can also pack sandals or lightweight slip-on shoes to wear while spending time in safari lodges or camps. It is always great to change into breathable shoes after the long game drives when having dinner or taking a rest at the lodge. It is advisable to avoid bright coloured and open-toe shoes while on safari. Bright colored shoes can attract insects, while open footwear is less protective against uneven terrain and thorns.

Always pack the appropriate shoes when going on a Kenya safari tours. That way, you are guaranteed comfort on your Kenya safari holidays. During early morning and evening game drives, the temperature changes dramatically. Lightweight fabrics and insulated foot pads make a huge difference on those days of long walks in the wild.

Being surrounded by the beauty of Kenya in the wilderness is amazing, but also knowing where to put your mind to rest is equally awesome after a tiresome day of long morning and afternoon game drives. Whether you are on a budget or are willing to spend, there are plenty of safari lodges in Kenya that you can pick from. Just because Kenya is a famous destination, does not mean that the same can be said about its safari lodges. I will share a number of the best rated safari lodges, but for precise information, I will urge you to contact us, so we can connect you to the best lodges in Kenya. They include, Angama Amboseli, the Angama is among the most luxurious lodges near Amboseli National Park. It offers views of Mount Kilimanjaro and you can spend time viewing herds of elephants with long tusks. It has a total of 10 luxury suites and you will spend between $1,775 to $2,650 for 3 nights. Next we have the Lewa Wilderness Lodge, characterised for favouring families. It is hidden away in the Laikipia Plateau, and famous for camel treks and aerial safaris. You will spend between $600 to $1200. We also have the Segera Retreat in Laikipia Plateau, popular for blending art, outdoor bathtubs, cultural experiences and privacy. Staying at this luxurious safari lodge in Kenya, you will pay between $1980 to $2,365. We also have Mara Nyika lodge in Naibosho Conservancy, it offers excellent cat viewing such as lions, cheetahs and leopards. This lodge has a total of six suites and offers night game drives. Kicheche Mara Camp is another highly rated lodge in Kenya, staying at this lodge means you have views that overlook the Olare Orok stream in Masai Mara National Reserve. Last on my list but not the least is Giraffe Manor, it is highly rated and normally booked up a year or two in advance. This list can’t be exploited fully, so I suggest you refer to us.

A common question often asked is “ where in Africa should you go to ?” Such a simple question with an even simpler answer “it depends on what you want to see “.The most popular three popular destination are : Kenya ranked at 23 %$, Tanzania ranked at 22% and third in place is South Africa ranked at 21%. If you are stuck or find it hard deciding where to go between Kenya and Tanzania , here are some of the things I would advice you to keep in mind when choosing your safari tour.

Kenya and Tanzania are neighbours located in the general region known as East Africa. Movies like Put of Africa and Disney’s classic animation ,The Lion King are well known to be outstretched from the savanna grasslands of both countries. Kenya’s most famous game reserve is the Masaai Mara National Reserve and Serengeti National Park In Tanzania.

 Safari In Kenya Vs Tanzania

Both countries are famed for their wildlife and offer Big Five game drive viewing in most game reserves, however, they each have their own specialities. Kenya’s efforts for wildlife conservation surpass that of Tanzania . In Kenya there are 160 conservancies covering 6.63 million hectare, it is also home to 24 National Parks compared to Tanzania which has 19. Kenya also has Nairobi National Park and is the only National Park in the world located inside the city.

When it comes to comparing and deciding where to go between between the two countries, time of the year is the biggest factor. Kenya’s Masaai Mara is best from July to September whereas in Tanzania it is a good year round migration destination. The Mara – Serengeti eco-system is known as prime Great Migration territory and it spans across the Kenya -Tanzania border. Both countries are at a draw to The Great Migration, however the best place to view it is in Kenya’s Masaai Mara where the wildebeest cross the Mara River.Major unique species you will encounter on a Kenya Safari Tour is the first black leopard in over 100 years that was photographed in 2018 in the Northern Kenya’s Laikipia region. Other species you will encounter are Gerenuk, Somali Ostrich, Reticulated Giraffe, Grevy’s Zebra and Pink Flamingoes of Lake Nakuru or Tusker Elephants of Amboseli National Par.

Why sets apart a Kenya Safari Tour vs Tanzania Safari Tour is the opportunity to go for chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania’s Masala Mountains next to the well known famous Lake Tanganyika that is home to 1000 or so chimpanzees, or see tree climbing lions one of only two populations in Africa of Lake Manyara National Park.

If you are deciding between Safari In Kenya or in Tanzania, word out there is that Kenya’s Safari Parks have more edge. It is good to keep in mind there is no wrong choice, both countries are beautiful and there is much to do and see. When it comes down to everything and you really have to choose between a Kenya Safari Tour and a Tanzania Safari Tour, I would probably say that Kenya offers the best safari.

These two East African safari nations and their many wildlife parks are perfect destinations for your holiday safari. They are unsurpassed for Africa’s greatest spectacle of wildlife. They lead the way to awesome landscapes, cultural experiences and great safaris that you will not find anywhere else on the continent. This combined safari offers views of wildebeest streaming from Tanzania’s Serengeti crossing into Kenya’s Masaai Mara. Combining Tanzania and Kenya for your safari tour is the ultimate East African adventure that will diverse and maximise your gaming view. Travellers can explore both countries with ease with convenient fly-in itineraries through Nairobi and Dar es Salam.

Well, choosing between Kenya and Tanzania for a safari it isn’t mostly about which country or destination is universally “better” but its about the kind of experience you are seeking. Both destinations offer unique landscapes, unforgettable adventures and top-notch wildlife experience making them the top options for tourists booking Kenya Safari Tours or exploring East Africa.

Kenya is considered the best option for first time travellers or those looking to have short trips. Parks like the Maasai Mara National Reserve are well known for the high population of wildlife and the dramatic sightings especially during the Great Migration River crossings. The infrastructure in Kenya is also excellent making it easier for travellers to plan Kenya Safari Tours as there is shorter travel time from one park to another. Additionally, tourists in Kenya enjoy more exclusive experiences such as off-road driving and night safaris especially if you are enrolled in a private conservancy.

On the other hand, Tanzania is ideal for travellers that are seeking more distant and extensive safari with a lot of privacy. The Serengeti National Park is usually very huge and less crowded thus giving travellers more wild and untouched feeling. It is one of the destinations that hosts the Great Migration for longer periods since much of the cycle lies within Tanzania. The iconic calving season usually takes place within this region inn Tanzania making it an important aspect of a wild safari.

In terms of wildlife, both countries are nearly equal. Visitors can see the Big Five and a wide range of animals in both destinations. The major difference lies in style Kenya offers accessibility and variety while Tanzania offers diverse scale and wilderness.

In terms of location, service and eating options for those who can afford it, Kenya offers several camps that are comparable to the best boutique hotels in the world for a great safari in Kenya. For a Kenya Safari Tour, expect to see the Big Five that are truly grand and iconic. The Kenya safari tour is highly achieved with a wide range of lodges and transport companies, tour operators welcoming hundreds and thousands of tourists every year. Tourists can also walk through some of the most amazing remote landscapes that offer a multitude of thrilling safari activities guided by tribesmen for whom these are their ancestral homes. Helicopters fly through the high altitude lakes around Mount Kenya to show you spots rarely ever touched by man. Expect morning and evening game drives that show rich wildlife, rounded with scenic sundowners and superb dining. A Kenyan Safari Tour is the best way to explore Kenya, which is a very unique place for your destinations in Africa.n Whether you visit the point -by-point sights in a safari van or a safari land cruiser, Kenya offers something for every Kenya safari tour lover. Expect to visit the Kenya’s snow capped mountains and the Great Rift Valley, they are some of the best places to visit on your safari in Kenya. Diani white sand beaches and beautiful blue waters of Indian Ocean are other point of interest. Lake Nakuru National Park, Nairobi National Park, Maasai Mara National Park, Amboseli National Park and Hell’s Gate National Park are all must see destinations you should expect to see in your visit to Kenya for a Kenya Safari Tour, depending on the days you set apart.

Expect a well unparalleled Beauty wherever you go for your Kenya safari tour, enjoy Kayaking, rock climbing and more in Kenya because of its pleasant tropical environment. If you have love birds, expect to visit Lake Nakuru National Park that is home for black herons, kingfishers and flamingos.

Enjoy peaceful boating safaris in Kenya especially if you include Lake Naivasha. It offers views like spotting hippos, fish eagles, and glide through its calm waters and a refreshing aquatic life that is contrast to the land based Kenya safari tours.

After a long action packed day of Kenya safari tours expect time to relax and recharge back at your camp, hotel or lodge. Places like Mara Silage Camp offer delicious dinner, a meal featuring a mix of local Kenyan flavours and familiar international dishes. Gather around the fire for campfire storytelling to hear fascinating tales about wildlife, the land and local traditions.This experience is immersive and brings the magic of safaris in Kenya.

Kenya is one of the safest country destination in Africa for a safari. It is a superb safari destination and its warm, welcoming and hospitable people make your Kenya safari tour a memorable one. Despite Nairobi having the highest crime rate in Kenya, Ravina Tours and Travels plans your trip in a way that you will feel safe exploring Kenya. They will give you a tour guide who is most familiar with the in and outs of Nairobi. Thousand of tourist come to Kenya to explore and they barely ever have an encounter of being unsafe with greater risks being minor issues such as sunburns burnouts  especially from hiking.

Kenya did not get the name Magical Kenya by accident, this name was derived from Kenya offering tourists safe and smooth adventures. The national parks and reserves in Kenya are world renowned and this is why the Kenyan government has put high priority in offering tight security to ensure guests have no concerns when it comes to their safety. Tourists travel with professional tour guides to ensure safety. Kenya has also gained a reputation for having great political stability that contributes to the growth of its tourism industry. With proper planning and following all the rules and regulations offered to you by national parks and reserves, you reduce certain safety issues that can happen abruptly. Also accommodation places where you spend your time when you are on your Kenya safari tours, are well maintained with professionals and security guards, to enjoy your stay, it is highly advised you follow safety guidelines provided by the lodge and camps. For example, walking in the night is highly prohibited especially in the bush, encountering a wild animal in this time is very easy. Since Kenya has been recognised as the fastest growing economies in Sub-Saharan Africa, when it comes to the tourism industry, the biggest contribution of this reason is because Kenyan people are incredibly warm and friendly people, with welcoming and gentle smiles, this is something that factors to why tourists feel welcomed instantly. The Kenya Tourism Federation Safety and Communication Centre, receives any security alerts and responds fast, they work together with other organisations like the Department of Tourism, Tourism Police Unit and Kenya Wildlife Service. All these organizations respond quickly to tourists’ needs and complaints. Kenya in general is a safe country and a world renowned destination to consider for your Kenya safari tours with Ravina Tours and Travels.

When travellers visit Kenya, safety really becomes a major concern. Kenya is a very safe country for tourists from the moment they alight from the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, throughout their stay, including the hotels that they choose to stay with 24-hour security services, including CCTV surveillance, and concerned staff who ensure their safety throughout the night.Note that, even though Kenya is safe, not everyone is trustworthy. You need to be self-cautious, to make sure you are ok.Here are some of the safety tips you should always remember on your trip to Kenya;

• Avoid walking alone, especially at night. Seek guidance from the hotel, a friend or an experienced driver-guide from your preferred tour company like Ravina Tours and Travels Ltd.
• Nairobi is popularly known as the jack of all trades. Here, you are prone to petty theft. For instance, most travellers, especially international travellers, love experiencing the Matatu culture, also known as the Nganya culture. If you are not keen and smart enough, you can be stolen from. You are advised not to walk around wearing your expensive jewellery, ensure your phone is safe in a secure bag crossing your body, and avoid ATMs and use cash.
• Dress modestly and decently to show respect to local culture.
• For accommodation options, avoid places like Nairobi CBD and normalise high-end areas like Westlands, Karen, Kiambu Road, and Mombasa Road with wonderful hotels that prioritise your safety.

These hotels include: Movenpick Hotel, Villarrasa Kempinski, 4 Points Sheraton, Emara Ole Sereni, and the Gem Forest Hotel, just to mention a few.

In places far away from Nairobi, in some of the major parks like the Masai Mara and Amboseli, you get to stay in safari lodges or tented camps that are considered 100 per cent safe.

Prior to going on a Kenya safari tours, one should be medically prepared by visiting a healthcare expert or a travel clinic. Preventive health and vaccinations are some of the ways of making sure that your Kenya safari holidays is safe and enjoyable.

The yellow fever vaccine is mandatory for travellers visiting Kenya, especially if they are arriving from endemic countries. Besides the yellow fever vaccine, health authorities also recommend routine vaccinations such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and tetanus, based on length of stay and whether the traveller is visiting remote areas.

Malaria prevention medication is another key health consideration before going on a Kenya safari tours. Malaria exists in most regions of Kenya, including some safari areas. As such, tourists are usually advised to carry anti-malarial drugs, mosquito repellents, and long-sleeved garments to wear in the evenings.

Vaccination recommendations are dependent on the itinerary and activities. For instance, visitors who spend a long period of time in the countryside, engage in walking safaris, visit remote areas, or come into contact with domestic animals or wildlife, can also be advised on getting the rabies vaccination or other precautions. It is also noteworthy that vaccination should be done at least 10 days before the travel date.

To ensure that the travellers are safe on their Kenya safari holidays, most safari lodges and camps offer mosquito nets and other countermeasures to minimize the chances of contracting mosquito-borne diseases.

Dreaming of going on a Kenya safari tours today? Worry not! Contact Ravina Tours and Travels today to plan your Kenya safari tours and offer you the best advice on the necessary vaccinations to ensure your trip is safe, enjoyable, and worthwhile.

Being a home to over 16 National Parks, Kenya is always considered among best places for perfect safari in Africa. In addition, there are thousands of wild animals to see while in Kenya and you may also have a chance of converting bush and beach safari experience.

If you enjoy mountain climbing, Kenya also suits you well. You can organize for a 5 Days Mount Kenya climbing safari from Nairobi.

The country also features divorce landscapes from the sweeping Rift Valley to the vast savanna lands providing a magnificent backdrop of wildlife viewing some of Kenya’s Magnificent wildlife.

Of all the National Parks and Reserves found in Kenya, Masai Mara National Reserve, which boasts of large herds of elephants, lions, Africa buffalo, rhinos, cheetahs alongside other hundred bird species.

The Masai Mara Ecosystem is normally same with that of Serengeti National Park.

For the Amboseli National Park, it is very popular for the elephant herds known as ‘The Big Tuskers’ as well as the great views of Mount Kilimanjaro from a distance.

Tsavo is Kenya’s largest park and has the world’s biggest game sanctuary whereas Lake Nakuru National Park is well known for hundred of bird species, including flamingoes.

Besides Kenya being the best when it comes to wildlife and sceneries, it is also very easy to reach Kenya though Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

JKIA is one of the busiest airports in Africa and has direct flights from major cities in the world including North America.

In addition, the Jomo Kenyatta Airport also serves as linkage hub to the rest of Africa, making it easy to explore other destinations across Africa directly from Kenya.