This route first takes you to the Ol’ Pejeta Conservancy – a beautiful park where you can see both black and white rhinos. After this grand kick-off, your next stop will bring you to the rhino sanctuary at the Solio Game Reserve, followed by a special touch of pink: hundreds of flamingos on the mesmerising Lake Nakuru. En route to the Masai Mara National Reserve you’ll pass by Lake Naivasha for a boat safari in between hippos and a walking safari on the stunning Crescent Island. Last but not least, you’ll submerge yourself in an abundance of wildlife while roaming the breathtakingly beautiful Masai Mara for two days. It couldn’t be more perfect!
Many people travelling to the African continent have questions about safety. Is Kenya safe to travel to? Our answer is clear: YES! Kenya is definitely a safe country to visit, especially for people going on organised game drives with private guides as you will do with us. There are definitely some places to avoid in big cities like Nairobi or Mombasa, but – as with all big cities – by taking some precautions, you’ll be fine. We advise, for example, to leave the hotel at night with a driver and not to go strolling around alone. Also be aware not to wear big and visible jewellery, and keep an eye on your valuables.
This is an exclusive, private safari that allows you to travel at your own pace. This trip is made just for you, exactly as you want it! Our experienced travel consultants will make sure that your wishes come true. There are numerous advantages to such a trip. First, you can cruise around in a private safari vehicle and have a personal guide. It’s completely up to you what time you leave in the morning and when you come back (taking into account your guide’s advice, of course). Secondly, once you’re in a national park, you can observe specific animals or herds for as long as you like. No one will push you to move along. And lastly, knowing your wishes, your personal guide will give you the right tips, turning your trip into an unforgettable experience.
At Africa Safari Trips, we’re all about co-creating your perfect journey. When you plan your African adventures with us, you’re not just booking a trip; you’re embarking on a personalised experience. We start by understanding your wishes and preferences, and we won’t stop until every aspect of your journey aligns perfectly with your vision. Our team works closely with you to ensure that your entire trip is tailor-made to your satisfaction. And for added convenience, we offer a selection of our most popular African tours and safaris as a starting point for your consideration.
Absolutely, Kenya is also home to all of the Big Five and many, many more animals. In short: wildlife galore! These magnificent creatures—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo — can be observed in their natural habitats, making Kenya a preferred choice for wildlife enthusiasts.
Day 1: Arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi
Day 2: Ol’ Pejeta Conservancy
Day 3: The Solio Ranch / Solio Game Reserve
Day 4: Lake Nakuru National Park
Day 5: Drive to the Masai Mara National Reserve to accommodations outside the park + Walking safari at Zebra Plains + Masai Mara National Reserve
Day 6: Masai Mara National Reserve
Day 7: Boat ride on Lake Naivasha and walking safari on Crescent Island
Day 8: Drive back to Nairobi + Flight home from Nairobi (not included in the price)
As you step out of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, a member of our Africa Safari Trips team or a hotel driver greets you with a big smile: 'Karibu Kenya – welcome to Kenya!' He brings you straight to your hotel to relax and, along the way, you get your first impressions of vibrant Nairobi. The next day, your guide takes you on an exclusive, private safari that allows you to travel at your own pace. Let the adventure begin!
The Ol' Pejeta Conservancy is a protected area set up for endangered species. For rhino lovers, this is a pure heaven on earth with a population of more than 100 black rhinos, almost 40 southern white rhinos AND the last two remaining northern white rhinos worldwide. These white rhinos can even be visited up close! Besides rhinos, the conservancy hosts endangered species like the African wild dog, the oryx, Jackson's hartebeest and Grévy’s zebra, and houses a sanctuary for abused or orphaned chimpanzees.
The Solio Ranch Conservancy is a privately owned and very special wildlife sanctuary. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, the former ranch is dedicated to saving and protecting rhinos in Kenya. Enjoy thrilling game drives, guided walks and serene picnics amidst the picturesque scenery and not only marvel at the grey giants, but also animals like buffalos, zebras, giraffes, elands, oryx, impala, waterbucks, Thomson’s gazelles and warthogs. You can either spend an unforgettable day here or even stay the night at this tranquil place in the middle of nowhere.
Lake Nakuru National Park is an amazing wildlife haven, smack in the middle of the Great Rift Valley. The Nakuru Lake in the middle of the park is its main attraction, with hundreds of birds flocking to its shores. The park used to be known for its many flamingos, but rising water levels caused these birds to migrate elsewhere. Luckily, they are slowly returning, and in any case, Lake Nakuru is a great place to visit with its black and white rhinos, giraffes, buffalos, lions, the occasional leopard and over 400 species of birds.
Lovers of road trips get their money’s worth today, as you drive to what might be the most famous safari destination in the world. If you decide to sleep at the Zebra Plains Safari Camp today (our silver accommodation), you will end the day on a high note with a walking safari. If you opt for our gold or platinum accommodation, however, you skip the walking safari but sleep right in the heart of the Masai Mara.
Today is a day to remember as you make your way to the famous Masai Mara National Reserve - the highlight of your trip! Enjoy both straight and winding roads on this beautiful road trip, while passing by some exceptional landscapes that you can only find in this part of the world. As this road trip takes up the biggest part of your day, no game drive is planned today. You sleep in an accommodation just outside the park to be well-rested for all the beauty the Mara has to offer the next day!
As the Zebra Plains camp lies close to the Masai Mara National Reserve, their walking safaris are next level. While walking with two Maasai (one armed for protection) and an experienced guide, this is your chance to get closer than ever to giraffes, zebras, impala and all the other animals in this area. What’s more, the Maasai will teach you how to identify and differentiate wildlife footprints and plants, leaving you feeling like a true nature warrior in your own right!
The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most famous places for safari worldwide. Located 270 kilometres west of Nairobi, this is one of the biggest game reserves in Africa. It extends over 1,500 km² and has more than 400 species of birds and no less than 95 species of mammals. Big cats are frequently spotted here, and this is THE place to watch the world-famous Great Migration between August and October, with its vast herds of wildebeests and zebras crossing the Mara River.
Have you ever wanted to pass floating hippos by boat? Seek no longer: during a boat safari on Lake Naivasha this is exactly what will happen. You will pass between huge groups of hippos while seeing eagles and cormorants flying above you, and admiring giraffes on the shore. The safari on board a small motorized boat takes about 60 minutes and ends on the beautiful Crescent Island, where you will continue with a stunning walking safari between zebras, giraffes and wildebeests.
Today, you are going back to Nairobi, where you can either relax in your hotelroom or do a nearby activity.
Our experts will work with you to find the best option for your stay. They are truly the best at making your trip exactly as you dream it, specially tailored to your unique travel experience.
To find your perfect match, Africa Safari Trips offers various options for your stay, depending on your personal preferences and budget.
Our price indication page provides an overview of different seasons: low, mid, and high, as well as different types of accommodations: silver, golden and platinum. The price of your stay will partly depend on whether you are seeking luxury and comfort, or are more focused on adventure and nature. Anyway, we always have something to offer!
We cannot wait to help you create your next dream trip in Africa.
| COMFORT | $2,612.60 USD* | $2,179.32 USD* | $2,034.89 USD* |
| MID-RANGE | $3,413.43 USD* | $2,957.60 USD* | $2,813.18 USD* |
| LUXURY | $3,751.69 USD* | $3,295.86 USD* | $3,151.43 USD* |
| SIGNATURE | $3,751.69 USD* | $3,295.86 USD* | $3,151.43 USD* |
| COMFORT | $2,612.60 USD* | $2,179.32 USD* | $2,034.89 USD* |
| MID-RANGE | $3,413.43 USD* | $2,957.60 USD* | $2,813.18 USD* |
| LUXURY | $3,751.69 USD* | $3,295.86 USD* | $3,151.43 USD* |
| COMFORT | $2,612.60 USD* | $2,179.32 USD* | $2,034.89 USD* |
| MID-RANGE | $3,413.43 USD* | $2,957.60 USD* | $2,813.18 USD* |
Our comfort accommodations are comfortable and affordable options for a pleasant stay in Africa. Nothing glamorous or luxurious, but you can expect decent and enjoyable lodging for an overnight stay. All properties are well-maintained and provide clean rooms, comfy beds, private bathrooms with hot water showers, and lovely dining rooms. Minor points to note are that Wi-Fi may only be available in certain areas, and dinner is typically served as a buffet. But the accommodations usually lie in beautiful surroundings, and some boast swimming pools or other extras.
Our mid-range accommodations take it up a notch, offering that extra touch of comfort and luxury. Here, you can indulge in well-designed rooms and buildings, usually set in beautiful locations. These accommodations feature fine, thoughtfully designed rooms with lush beds, fully equipped bathrooms, and private balconies with scenic views. You will enjoy excellent meals in buffets or à la carte menus and have free access to swimming pools. As a cherry on top, you might spot wildlife directly from the lodge, with monkeys in trees or animals coming to drink at a nearby waterhole.
Our luxury accommodations provide enhanced luxury, as they offer beautifully designed lodges and resorts in the most amazing locations. The service in these places is impeccable, all amenities you can think of are present, and rooms are spacious and extremely comfortable. Oftentimes, they boast private plunge pools or luxurious outside rain showers, wide beds, exquisite food, amazing service, and beautiful terraces with fluffy sofas. And of course, these accommodations boast the most remarkable views over extraordinary landscapes.
Our signature accommodations offer the ultimate luxury experience in Africa. Nothing less than the best of the best! We take you to places that pamper you with the utmost luxury and comfort in stunning settings that give your African adventure a memorable twist. You stay in places that are unique in their design, geographical location, and service. You, for example, sleep on private islands, in treetop rooms inside national parks, or on the rim of a crater. Furthermore, you experience the utmost privacy and seclusion while you enjoy sundowners in private plunge pools or outdoor bathtubs with a view, indulge in haute cuisine in fine restaurants, get pampered in a luxury spa or with in-room massages, and get your morning coffee served by private butlers while watching the wildlife from your terrace.
As you step out of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, a member of our Africa Safari Trips team or a hotel driver greets you with a big smile: 'Karibu Kenya – welcome to Kenya!' He brings you straight to your hotel to relax and, along the way, you get your first impressions of vibrant Nairobi. The next day, your guide takes you on an exclusive, private safari that allows you to travel at your own pace. Let the adventure begin!
The Ol' Pejeta Conservancy is a protected area set up for endangered species. For rhino lovers, this is a pure heaven on earth with a population of more than 100 black rhinos, almost 40 southern white rhinos AND the last two remaining northern white rhinos worldwide. These white rhinos can even be visited up close! Besides rhinos, the conservancy hosts endangered species like the African wild dog, the oryx, Jackson's hartebeest and Grévy’s zebra, and houses a sanctuary for abused or orphaned chimpanzees.
The Solio Ranch Conservancy is a privately owned and very special wildlife sanctuary. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, the former ranch is dedicated to saving and protecting rhinos in Kenya. Enjoy thrilling game drives, guided walks and serene picnics amidst the picturesque scenery and not only marvel at the grey giants, but also animals like buffalos, zebras, giraffes, elands, oryx, impala, waterbucks, Thomson’s gazelles and warthogs. You can either spend an unforgettable day here or even stay the night at this tranquil place in the middle of nowhere.
Lake Nakuru National Park is an amazing wildlife haven, smack in the middle of the Great Rift Valley. The Nakuru Lake in the middle of the park is its main attraction, with hundreds of birds flocking to its shores. The park used to be known for its many flamingos, but rising water levels caused these birds to migrate elsewhere. Luckily, they are slowly returning, and in any case, Lake Nakuru is a great place to visit with its black and white rhinos, giraffes, buffalos, lions, the occasional leopard and over 400 species of birds.
Lovers of road trips get their money’s worth today, as you drive to what might be the most famous safari destination in the world. If you decide to sleep at the Zebra Plains Safari Camp today (our silver accommodation), you will end the day on a high note with a walking safari. If you opt for our gold or platinum accommodation, however, you skip the walking safari but sleep right in the heart of the Masai Mara.
Today is a day to remember as you make your way to the famous Masai Mara National Reserve - the highlight of your trip! Enjoy both straight and winding roads on this beautiful road trip, while passing by some exceptional landscapes that you can only find in this part of the world. As this road trip takes up the biggest part of your day, no game drive is planned today. You sleep in an accommodation just outside the park to be well-rested for all the beauty the Mara has to offer the next day!
As the Zebra Plains camp lies close to the Masai Mara National Reserve, their walking safaris are next level. While walking with two Maasai (one armed for protection) and an experienced guide, this is your chance to get closer than ever to giraffes, zebras, impala and all the other animals in this area. What’s more, the Maasai will teach you how to identify and differentiate wildlife footprints and plants, leaving you feeling like a true nature warrior in your own right!
The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most famous places for safari worldwide. Located 270 kilometres west of Nairobi, this is one of the biggest game reserves in Africa. It extends over 1,500 km² and has more than 400 species of birds and no less than 95 species of mammals. Big cats are frequently spotted here, and this is THE place to watch the world-famous Great Migration between August and October, with its vast herds of wildebeests and zebras crossing the Mara River.
Have you ever wanted to pass floating hippos by boat? Seek no longer: during a boat safari on Lake Naivasha this is exactly what will happen. You will pass between huge groups of hippos while seeing eagles and cormorants flying above you, and admiring giraffes on the shore. The safari on board a small motorized boat takes about 60 minutes and ends on the beautiful Crescent Island, where you will continue with a stunning walking safari between zebras, giraffes and wildebeests.
Today, you are going back to Nairobi, where you can either relax in your hotelroom or do a nearby activity.
At Designer Safari Trips, we know how accommodations can greatly elevate or lessen the joy of your overall travel experience. This is why we offer hundreds of accommodations to choose from and are dedicated to finding the best ones for you! Our accommodations are divided into 4 categories based on the quality of services and amenities. Curious to know what we mean by silver, gold, platinum, and diamond? Read it here!
Our comfort accommodations are comfortable and affordable options for a pleasant stay in Africa. Nothing glamorous or luxurious, but you can expect decent and enjoyable lodging for an overnight stay. All properties are well-maintained and provide clean rooms, comfy beds, private bathrooms with hot water showers, and lovely dining rooms. Minor points to note are that Wi-Fi may only be available in certain areas, and dinner is typically served as a buffet. But the accommodations usually lie in beautiful surroundings, and some boast swimming pools or other extras.
Our mid-range accommodations take it up a notch, offering that extra touch of comfort and luxury. Here, you can indulge in well-designed rooms and buildings, usually set in beautiful locations. These accommodations feature fine, thoughtfully designed rooms with lush beds, fully equipped bathrooms, and private balconies with scenic views. You will enjoy excellent meals in buffets or à la carte menus and have free access to swimming pools. As a cherry on top, you might spot wildlife directly from the lodge, with monkeys in trees or animals coming to drink at a nearby waterhole.
Our luxury accommodations provide enhanced luxury, as they offer beautifully designed lodges and resorts in the most amazing locations. The service in these places is impeccable, all amenities you can think of are present, and rooms are spacious and extremely comfortable. Oftentimes, they boast private plunge pools or luxurious outside rain showers, wide beds, exquisite food, amazing service, and beautiful terraces with fluffy sofas. And of course, these accommodations boast the most remarkable views over extraordinary landscapes.
Our signature accommodations offer the ultimate luxury experience in Africa. Nothing less than the best of the best! We take you to places that pamper you with the utmost luxury and comfort in stunning settings that give your African adventure a memorable twist. You stay in places that are unique in their design, geographical location, and service. You, for example, sleep on private islands, in treetop rooms inside national parks, or on the rim of a crater. Furthermore, you experience the utmost privacy and seclusion while you enjoy sundowners in private plunge pools or outdoor bathtubs with a view, indulge in haute cuisine in fine restaurants, get pampered in a luxury spa or with in-room massages, and get your morning coffee served by private butlers while watching the wildlife from your terrace.
Regardless of the accommodation you choose, Designer Safari Trips guarantees an unforgettable experience in some of the most beautiful countries of Africa. We are ready and excited to tailor your stay to your specific desires and requirements, working with you to create your dream itinerary.
To many, Africa as a continent is still quite a mystery, as many people don’t know what to expect when travelling here. We put together some advice for first-timers as well as experienced travellers. This way, we make sure you step into the plane with a peaceful mind and need only think about the beautiful wildlife and views you are about to see!
Kenya is a tropical country and some vaccinations are recommended when visiting, Hepatitis A and Yellow Fever being the common ones. Malaria used to be a problem in Kenya, but has been mostly eradicated in recent years. However, most visitors take malaria medication to be sure and protect themselves at night with mosquito repellent. Make sure to pack some long-sleeved tops and trousers in case you want to be outdoors at night. All lodges are equipped with mosquito nets for you to avoid contact with mosquitos.
We are no doctors, however, and at all times recommend you ask your physician or local health centre for up-to-date advice before travelling to Kenya.
For Kenyan Covid-19 policies we kindly refer you to the Kenyan Ministry of Health.
You need an approved eTA (electronic Travel Authorization) to enter Kenya. You need to apply for this online BEFORE traveling, via this link of the official government eTA website.
The eTA costs 34.09 USD and is valid for three months. An official travel document is required, which has to be valid for at least six months after the last day of travel.
Kenya is a multilingual country, with Swahili and English being the two official languages. Almost all Kenyans speak both languages, many times mixed with each other (English with Swahili or vice versa) and with tribal languages.
Kenyans are a very welcoming people, who are known for their hospitality. In general, people will easily start up conversations with travellers. Sharing food is an important cultural custom, and people usually invite you for dinner or to share their meal. Street sellers will never miss the opportunity to sell you something, but in general, are not too pushy. Greetings are also an important custom, with many different varieties and usually a response that differs from the initial greeting. Here are the most basic ones:
Many people travelling to the African continent have questions about safety. Is Kenya safe to travel to? Our answer is clear: YES!
Many people travelling to the African continent have questions about safety. Is Kenya safe to travel to? Our answer is clear: YES!
Kenya is definitely a safe country to visit, especially for people going on organised game drives with private guides as you will do with us. There are definitely some places to avoid in big cities like Nairobi or Mombasa, but – as with all big cities – by taking some precautions, you’ll be fine. We advise, for example, to leave the hotel at night with a driver and not to go strolling around alone. Also be aware not to wear big and visible jewellery, and keep an eye on your valuables.
Los Angeles: -10 hours
New York: -7 hours
London: -2 hours
Berlin: -2 hours
Hong Kong: +5 hours
Sydney: +7 hours
The Kenyan Shilling is the official currency of Kenya. It is the common currency to use, even though hotels usually also accept US-dollars. 1 USD is approximately 110 Kenyan Shilling. Also payments with credit cards are possible in most places. However, we advise to have at least some Kenyan Shillings at hand.
When it comes to embarking on your dream adventure to Kenya, your safety is our top priority! That’s why we urge all travelers to ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance in place before setting off. While Africa Safari Trips doesn’t provide travel insurance directly, we’re delighted to recommend Chapka Travel Insurance as your go-to provider for your upcoming trip to Kenya.
Traditionally, Kenyans have their own way of telling time in Swahili. The day starts at 6am, after which they start counting up to twelve. That’s why 7am in Swahili is saa mmoja (1 o’clock) and 1pm is saa saba (7 o’clock). 6pm is saa kumi na mbili (12 o’clock) and 7pm again saa mmoja!
Due to its location close to the equator, Kenya has a tropical climate with wet and dry seasons. The weather, however, differs from region to region. The coastal areas are hot and humid, while inland and higher up the temperatures tend to be more agreeable. Temperatures during the day vary between 22°C and 31°C, depending on the period and region. At night temperatures drop a little in coastal regions (to 18°C in cooler seasons) and a lot in some inland areas (up to 10°C in highlands).
Kenya has wet and dry seasons, with the dry seasons being much longer than the wet seasons. Kenya’s climate knows two wet seasons: the long and the short one. There are also two dry seasons; a cooler and warmer one.
Kenya’s short wet season is in November, with usually only occasional showers. The long wet season is in April and May. These months usually have shorter and longer showers, but not every day and only rarely does it rain a full day. Nights are usually wetter than days.
The cooler dry season starts in June, stays cool until September and then starts to heat up again until the end of October when the rainy season starts. The warmer one runs from December to March, with March heating up again for the rainy season.
Did you know that National Geographic, Discovery and other TV companies choose the rainy season to shoot their wildlife documentaries?
During the wet season the national parks are in full bloom with lush and green forests and meadows, beautiful flowers, plenty of food for the animals and agreeable temperatures. And, as a benefit for travellers, this period is far less crowded and the costs of game drives and accommodations are lower.
The disadvantage is that some accommodations close and road conditions can be poor. Fortunately, Kenya has more and more tarmac roads, which prevents the roads from becoming total mud pools. The national parks usually have dirt roads, but even during the rainy season they are accessible. All parks remain open during the wet season.
When is the best time to visit Kenya, you ask? Anytime!
One of the reasons Kenya is such a popular country for safari holidays, is the fact that the climate allows for great travels all year round. Sure, we have two wet and dry seasons here, as well as cooler and warmer periods. But in general, all seasons have their advantages.
Do you prefer to avoid busy days and keep your budget low? If so, the wet season is the best time to visit. You might encounter some showers, but also cooler weather, lots of green (everything bursts to life!) and definitely fewer travellers.
Do you want to maximise your chances of seeing big herds of wildlife? Then the dry season is ideal, with September and October as peak months. Animals gather around rivers and waterholes during dry seasons, which is why they are easier to spot. September and October are the months for the great migration in the Masai Mara National Reserve, which guarantees the sighting of thousands of animals.
Check the bullet points below to know which part of the year is the best time to visit Kenya, according to your preferences.
The dry season runs from June to October and from December to March, the first one being a bit cooler than the second one. Advantages of travelling during the dry seasons are:
Kenya has a short and long wet season. The short one is in November and the long one from April to May. These months usually have shorter and longer showers, but not every day and only rarely does it rain a full day. At times, roads might be less accessible. Advantages of travelling during the wet season are:
Kenya has three different holiday seasons, with high, middle and low rates.
April and May. The long wet season is the least popular with travellers, but has the best rates.
1 November to 21 December and the month of March. These periods attract fewer visitors, which causes hotels to handle cheaper rates.
June to October, December, January and February. These months are popular with tourists, which leads to hotels charging high rates. Around Christmas and New Year’s (22 December to 10 January) hotels might charge a peak rate.
