Kenya is where the “safari” was born. Rich in tribal culture, with majestic scenery, teeming with wildlife, a wonderful coast blessed with warm trade winds, a wealth of history and tropical seas. The deep appeal of Kenya comes from all this mesmerising colour thrown together like a kaleidoscope.
If you have watched the movies, read the books and have literally dreamed of Africa – Kenya is the classic ‘Out of Africa’ we all imagine. The land of rolling plains and open savannah, effortlessly stylish camps and lodges, spectacular wildlife, absorbing characters and wonderfully authentic tribes. Evocative of a romantic by-gone era, it continues to capture the hearts of the visitors to Kenya.
Iconic parks such as the Masai Mara have helped to put Kenya on the map, renowned for its spectacular wildebeest migration. However, in order to truly escape the well trodden path and to see Kenya in all its shining glory, we highly recommend combining some time in the Northern part of the country and on the coast.
Wild and remote, and home to areas such as the vast Laikipia plateau and the Matthews Range, this is the Africa of old. Made up of huge conservation areas, not restricted by national park rules, you get the chance to step away from the vehicle to experience the game and bush in a more intimate environment. From walking to camel and horse riding safaris, scenic helicopter trips to low level flying in a 1940’s bi-plane, to tubing down rivers and fly camping for a night or two under the stars.
After the thrill of the safari, head to the Indian Ocean coastline to relax on miles of white sandy beaches or explore the historic and characterful island of Lamu. With the added advantage of having its own coastline, it makes Kenya the ideal bush and beach destination.
Time difference: + 3hrs GMT
Visa: On 12 December 2023 the President of Kenya announced that Kenya would be visa-free from January 2024. Visitors to Kenya are now required to apply online for an electronic travel authorisation in advance of travel. Sarah James Travel will assist you with this, once you have confirmed your holiday. This applies to all passport holders.
Health: You are advised to take anti-malaria pills for your trip. No specific shots are required to enter. Please note if you are combining Kenya with Tanzania or Rwanda; Or if you are combining with South Africa or a country in Southern Africa, you will be required to have a Yellow Fever vaccination. And you will be required to show proof with your Yellow Fever certificate. We do recommend you visit a travel health clinic prior to departure to make sure your standard travel vaccinations are up to date.
Language: Mainly Swahili and English, but English is widely spoken everywhere.
How to get around: Due to the remoteness of most of the camps and lodges, we usually advise flying from one area to the other, either using a scheduled or private charter. There are some areas in the north, where we can do road transfers.
For those that really want to go off the beaten path, we love to include a helicopter scenic flight.
How to get there: There are direct flights from London to Nairobi. Alternatively, there are flights from most major European cities into Nairobi. Another option, you can fly via Johannesburg, South Africa, if coming from the USA.
Who does it suit? Kenya is ideal for families of all ages (low risk malaria areas), couples and adventure seekers and of course honeymooners. Also offers excellent horse riding safaris. Kenya offers the ideal bush and beach destination.
Traditionally, Kenya experiences two rainy seasons – the long rains in mid April/May/ beginning of June and the short rains in November, so the best time for safari is anywhere in between. For migration, July – September are the best months. The coast is generally lovely all year, except May/June when many of the coastal properties are closed.
Kenya is a great destination on its own as it offers both fantastic safari and beach options. However, if you are wanting to extend your safari experience, then it combines very easily with Rwanda (gorillas) and also Tanzania. For an alternative coastal add-on to your safari, Kenya also works well with the Zanzibar archipelago, the Seychelles and even the beaches in Madagascar and Malawi. There are now direct flights from Nairobi to Cape Town, adding another fun combination.
Get in touch and let us start planning your special trip… info@sarahjamestravel.com
