by Kira Stann

Created on: August 02, 2010   Last Updated: August 04, 2010

Vacation Guide to an African Safari in Kenya

An African safari offers the unique experience of getting up close and personal with otherwise inaccessible wild creatures. There are many safari opportunities in Kenya. The Swahili word for safari means long journey. Most safari outfits suggest at least a seven-day safari to receive a full safari experience. Many safari agencies offer day and night safari opportunities. This enhances the adventure by being able to see creatures that are not active during the day.

Things to Consider

A typical safari lasts seven to eight days. The busiest time of year is July through August, which also tends to be the best time in terms of weather and for seeing the Great Migration.  The busy season requires booking a safari as much as a year in advance. Seasonal rains come to this area March through May. Lighter rains arrive October through December. January and February are great months to plan a safari because the weather tends to be hot and dry and many bird flocks are visible. Rates tend to be lower during April because of the rainy season and cause trails in parks to become rutted and muddy. Summer clothes are appropriate to wear year round on a safari in Kenya, though the nights can get cool. Public safaris have set departure dates, though private bookings can make their own departure dates.

What a Safari Package Includes in Kenya

Generally, a safari package in Kenya will include accommodations at a hotel, lodge or camp, all meals, transportation in a safari vehicle that is equipped with wildlife books, binoculars, bottled water, and emergency radios. Usually the park entrance fees, government fees and taxes, transfer fees and transportation to and from the airport are included. Most packages do not include laundry services, tips and gratuities, snacks, and entrance fees to parks or reserves not scheduled within your safari package. Children are permitted on safari in Kenya, though there may be height restrictions for certain activities. Security is taken very seriously in Kenya and there have been no known recent safety issues involving a safari tourist.  The US State Department is an excellent source for security advice, packing tips and emergency contact information.

There are diverse ecosystems to explore along a Kenya Safari including coral reefs, river deltas, beaches, forest, lakes, plains and meadows.  These ecosystems are home to some of the most extraordinary animals and people on earth.  Travelling

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