Kenya

Classic, Cultural & Conservation-Conscious Adventures

 
 

Kenya: The Birthplace of Safari

A Kenya safari is the ultimate African travel experience;  golden savannas, acacia-dotted plains, and an astonishing diversity of wildlife. This is the Africa of postcards, where lions roar under starlit skies and elephants cross the horizon beneath Mount Kilimanjaro.

Located in East Africa and bordered by the Indian Ocean, Kenya offers unmatched safari diversity, including the world-famous Maasai Mara, the remote wilds of Laikipia and Samburu, and the pristine beaches of Diani and Lamu. Its landscapes range from vast plains to volcanic lakes and lush highlands. Kenya is also a cultural mosaic, home to more than 40 ethnic communities including the Maasai, Samburu, and Swahili, each contributing to its vibrant traditions.

Sunset in Kenya

Why Choose a Kenya Safari?

Kenya is perfect for both first-time travelers seeking the “classic safari” and seasoned explorers looking for rare, off-the-beaten-path experiences. It offers:

  • Exceptional wildlife sightings, including the Big Five and the Great Migration.

  • Luxury lodges & private conservancies with exclusive access.

  • Cultural encounters with Maasai and Samburu communities.

Conservation-focused travel where tourism directly supports local people and wildlife.

Safari Highlights in Kenya

The Maasai Mara: A Theatre of the Wild

The Maasai Mara National Reserve is Kenya’s most legendary safari destination. Its open plains host lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, and endless herds of plains game. From July to October, it becomes the stage for the Great Migration, where over two million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle thunder across the plains and attempt dramatic river crossings.

Stay in private conservancies bordering the reserve for more intimate encounters, fewer vehicles, and authentic Maasai cultural experiences.

Amboseli: Land of Giants

Few safari moments rival seeing elephant herds wandering across Amboseli’s plains with snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro rising in the distance. Amboseli is one of the best places in Africa to observe elephant behavior and photograph iconic “elephant-with-mountain” views.

Samburu & Northern Kenya

In northern Kenya, the landscapes shift dramatically into rugged, arid beauty. Here lies Samburu National Reserve, home to the Samburu Special Five: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, Beisa oryx, and gerenuk.

Beyond the wildlife, Samburu safaris offer deep cultural connections. Meeting Samburu people and learning about their traditions adds richness to the safari experience.

Laikipia: A Conservation Success Story

The Laikipia Plateau is one of Africa’s boldest conservation models, made up of private and community-owned conservancies. It shelters Kenya’s largest population of black rhinos, African wild dogs, and rare species.

Laikipia also invites adventure beyond game drives: walking safaris, horse riding, camel trekking, and sleep-outs under endless stars.

Lake Nakuru & The Great Rift Valley

Nestled in the Great Rift Valley, Lake Nakuru National Park is famous for its flamingos, pelicans, and endangered rhinos. This region is a birdwatcher’s paradise, and the scenic escarpments make for striking photographic backdrops.

Lake Nakuru

Kenya Coast & Islands

After days in the bush, Kenya offers another treasure: its Indian Ocean coastline. From the powdery white sands of Diani Beach to the Swahili heritage of Lamu Island, this is the perfect safari add-on. Snorkeling, dhow sailing, and barefoot luxury blend seamlessly with your inland adventures.

Related read: Perfect Safari Add-Ons

Laikipia: A Conservation Success Story

The Laikipia Plateau is one of Africa’s boldest conservation landscapes, where private and community-owned conservancies work together to protect wildlife and empower local people. It shelters Kenya’s largest population of black rhinos, endangered African wild dogs, and a diversity of rare species.

Laikipia is also one of the few places in Africa where you might encounter the rare black leopard — an extraordinary sighting that has drawn global attention to the region.

Safari here feels exclusive and adventurous: track rhinos on foot, explore the plains on horseback, or sleep out beneath a canopy of stars

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy: A UNESCO Treasure

Situated in northern Kenya, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most successful conservation models. Once a cattle ranch, Lewa has transformed into a haven for wildlife, especially rhinos, elephants, and Grevy’s zebra.

With fewer visitors than the Maasai Mara or Amboseli, Lewa offers an intimate safari experience in a landscape of rolling hills, acacia forests, and open plains. Guests can enjoy traditional game drives as well as guided walks, horseback riding, and cultural visits with the local communities who help manage this remarkable conservancy.

A safari in Lewa pairs beautifully with the Maasai Mara or Laikipia for travelers seeking both iconic wildlife encounters and conservation-driven travel.

Unique Safari Experiences in Kenya

Kenya isn’t only about game drives — it’s about immersive encounters that bring you closer to the land and its people:

  • Hot-air balloon safaris over the Mara at sunrise.

  • Walking safaris to connect with the bush on foot.

  • Cultural visits with Maasai and Samburu communities.

  • Conservation tours at rhino sanctuaries and elephant orphanages.

  • Beach extensions for a balance of adventure and relaxation.

When to Visit Kenya

Kenya is a year-round safari destination, with each season offering something special:

  • Long Dry Season (June–October): This is also considered Kenya's "winter" or cooler dry season. Expect mild, dry, and mostly sunny conditions, though nights and early mornings can be cool, especially in the highlands. 

  • Short Dry Season (Jan- feb): a hot, dry period with pleasant temperatures and little to no rain, making it a popular time for safaris. 

  • Long Rainy Season (March–May): This is the period with the heaviest rainfall, often peaking in April. While it rains, it doesn't rain all day, and you can still expect plenty of sunshine between showers. 

  • Short Rainy Season (November–December): A shorter, lighter period of rain that marks the transition from the long dry season to the next. 

Sustainable Travel in Kenya

Kenya is at the forefront of community-based tourism. Many of the conservancies we work with are owned and managed by local communities, ensuring tourism revenue supports education, healthcare, and conservation. At Sundowner Safaris, we partner with lodges and camps that:

Plan Your Kenya Safari with Sundowner Safaris

From the roar of lions in the Maasai Mara to walking alongside Samburu warriors in the north, Kenya offers the ultimate blend of wildlife, culture, and conservation. Whether it’s your first safari or your fifth, Kenya delivers moments that feel both timeless and personal. To book a safari with us, simply fill out the form on our website. We will need some basic information from you, such as your name, contact information, travel dates, and any other preferences you want that would help us plan the perfect safari for you.

You can also send us an email at info@sundownersafaris.com, and one of our safari experts will get back to you as soon as possible to accommodate your request.

Experiencing Africa's wildlife is a must-do for any nature lover, but it's also important to remember that a safari is a trip of a lifetime. That's what Sundowner Safaris is here for!

Sundowner Safaris is co-owned by one of Africa's most experienced private tour guides, and we pride ourselves on providing our guests with an authentic and memorable experience. We offer tailor-made safaris for all kinds of travelers, whether you're looking for a family-friendly trip, a romantic honeymoon or an action-packed adventure.

Contact us today to book your dream safari and to find out more about our incredible safari packages. We look forward to seeing you on our next Kenya safari tour!

We love planning a true wilderness experience for our clients at small intimate camps within Mozambique. We always focus on high-quality guiding and wildlife viewing and can offer different levels of luxury and accommodation to fit your style.

  • The cost of a Mozambique safari depends on the length of the safari expedition, the number of people in your group, and the type of accommodation and activities you choose.

  • The best African safari is based solely on the preferences of the traveler. Whether you're looking to see the Big Five or spend time cruising down the Zambezi River and looking for birdlife, there is an African safari that's perfect for you.

  • The best months for an African safari are during the dry season, which is typically from June to October. It's when animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.

  • One of the best places to do a safari in Africa is Zimbabwe. The country has a wide variety of landscapes and wildlife, making it a perfect destination for any safari-goer.