Frequently asked questions

Open a tour, choose a departure date and the number of travellers, and follow the steps. Before you confirm, the page shows the total, the deposit if one applies, and the balance with its due date. Creating the booking holds your places while you pay. Some tours are enquiry-only until the company confirms prices and dates; for those, or for something different, use Plan your trip or Contact us. More detail is at Booking assistance.

You can book with an account or, where guest booking is switched on, as a guest. If guest booking is not available, you are asked to sign in or register before the final step. Guests receive a secure link by email to manage the booking later. An account at Your account keeps your bookings, itineraries, receipts, saved tours and messages together in one place.

Yes. Tell us about your dates, group, interests and the pace you prefer through Plan your trip, and the team will come back with a proposal. A private or custom trip is not booked until the details, price and dates have been confirmed with you in writing. Some published tours may also offer a private option; the tour page and the booking steps show whether that is available.

Some tours are listed so you can see what is planned, but their prices, dates or availability still need to be confirmed by the company before anyone can book them. For those tours, use the enquiry or planning form at Plan your trip or Contact us instead of paying online. Nothing is reserved until the team confirms the details with you.

Creating a booking holds your places for a short, set period while you pay, and an unpaid booking expires when that period ends. Some bookings confirm automatically once payment is verified; others need the team to check availability first. Your booking page always states the status in plain words, and we email you each time it changes.

Your booking is confirmed when its status says so on your booking page and in the email we send. Creating a booking, returning from a payment page or submitting an M-Pesa code does not confirm anything by itself, because payments are verified and some tours also need an availability check. If the status is unclear, contact us with your booking reference.

No. A booking reference identifies your booking and is useful when you contact us, but it never gives access on its own. To view or manage a booking, sign in to your account, or use the secure link emailed to you if you booked as a guest. This keeps your travellers' details private even if someone sees or guesses a reference.

Yes. Choose the number of travellers when you book, and the total reflects that tour's rules. Group size limits and child rules differ between tours, and the tour page shows them. For a larger party, a mixed-age family or friends who want a shared plan, use Plan your trip so the team can suggest something that suits everyone. Details for each traveller are collected as part of the booking.

Depending on the tour and the company's settings, a booking needs either full payment or a deposit to start. Before you create the booking, the page states the total, the amount due now, the balance and the date the balance is due. You pay the balance from your booking page, and we send reminders by email before the due date. Only verified payments reduce what you owe.

It depends on which methods the company has switched on, and checkout shows only the methods available for your booking. M-Pesa may be offered as a prompt sent to your phone, or as a payment to a Paybill or Till number followed by submitting your confirmation code. Either way, a payment counts once it has been verified, not at the moment you send it.

The methods depend on what the company has switched on, so the checkout page lists only those available for your booking. They can include M-Pesa, card and mobile payments through Paystack or Pesapal, and PayPal in supported currencies. We cannot promise a particular method in advance. If none suits you, contact us before your booking expires.

Pay the amount shown using the Paybill or Till number and account reference on your booking page. Then open the booking, choose 'I have paid', and enter the M-Pesa confirmation code, the amount, the phone number you used and the time. The payment shows as awaiting verification until our team matches it with M-Pesa records. Submitting a code does not make the booking paid by itself.

A payment counts only after it has been verified. Card and mobile payments are confirmed by the payment provider and checked against your booking, and manual M-Pesa payments are matched to M-Pesa records by our team. Returning from a payment page is not enough on its own. Pending or failed attempts do not reduce your balance. See Payments and refunds for more.

Yes, for each payment that has been verified. Every receipt has its own number and can be downloaded from the booking page, which you reach from your account or, for guests, through the secure link in your booking email. A payment that is still pending or has failed does not get a receipt. If one you expect is missing, check the payment status first.

You pay in the currency shown for your booking, which is Kenyan shillings unless the booking states otherwise. We do not convert between currencies behind the scenes: if a conversion applies, it is shown before you pay. Your bank or card provider may apply its own exchange rate or charges, which are outside our control, so ask them if you are paying from another currency.

No. Card details are entered with the payment provider, not with us, and the company does not store them. Only start a payment from your own booking page, and never send card details by email or chat. If something about a payment page looks wrong, stop and contact us before continuing.

Avoid paying again straight away, because a timeout does not prove that no payment was made. Check your M-Pesa or card messages, then refresh your booking page: the status updates once the provider's result has been verified. If the booking still shows unpaid, contact us with your booking reference and the transaction details so the team can check before you retry.

Each tour page lists what is included and what is not, written for that tour. Items to look for on the included side are accommodation, meals, transport, guiding and park or activity fees; on the other side are often flights, visas, insurance, tips and personal spending. This varies by tour, so read both lists before booking and ask us if anything is unclear.

The day-by-day plans on tour pages are proposed itineraries. Final arrangements are confirmed in your booking documents, and the order or timing of activities can change with weather, park conditions or supplier availability. If something material changes after you book, we tell you by email and the updated itinerary appears in your account.

You can ask. Changes such as different dates, a longer stay or an extra destination are handled through Plan your trip or Contact us, and whether they are possible depends on availability and supplier conditions. A change may affect the price. It becomes part of your trip only when the team confirms it in writing.

Each tour page shows the day-by-day outline. Once you have booked, the itinerary for your booking can be downloaded as a PDF from your booking page. If it has not been published yet, or some arrangements are still being confirmed, the page says so rather than offering a document that is not final.

Wildlife is wild, so sightings cannot be promised. What you see depends on the season, the area, the weather and plain luck. Good guiding improves the odds, and tour pages describe what is typical rather than certain, but no guide can guarantee a particular animal or the timing of a migration. Patience and an early start help.

It varies. Safari tours involve long hours in a vehicle, sometimes on rough roads, while walking, cycling or hiking tours ask for more fitness. Each tour page states how demanding it is and any rules, such as park rules or age limits. If you have mobility, health or fitness concerns, tell us before booking so we can say honestly whether a tour suits you.

That depends on the tour. Some are set up as group departures and some as private journeys, and where a tour offers a choice the booking steps ask for your preference. For a fully private trip built around your own party, use Plan your trip. The tour page and your booking summary state which arrangement applies.

Yes, through a custom journey. Share the places you have in mind at Plan your trip and the team can suggest a route, explain realistic travel times between destinations, and set out what is and is not included. Long road days can take the enjoyment out of a holiday, so fewer places with more time in each is often worth considering.

It varies by tour and destination, and can include safari lodges, tented camps, beach hotels and guesthouses. Each tour page has an accommodation summary describing the type of stay. The exact property can depend on availability and is confirmed in your booking documents, so treat a sample itinerary as a guide until then.

Where a tour offers accommodation options, you can choose them while booking. Otherwise, ask through Plan your trip or Contact us and the team will tell you what is possible for your dates. A different property can change the price and depends on availability, and a request is not confirmed until the team says so in writing.

Room preferences are collected during booking where the tour supports them, and special requests can be added in the notes. These are preferences until confirmed: availability, and sometimes an additional cost, depend on the property. If a room arrangement matters to you, mention it early and check your booking documents.

Tell us about dietary, mobility or accessibility needs when you book or plan, so the team can check what each property and activity can realistically offer. Facilities differ widely, particularly in remote areas, and we will say plainly if something is not possible. Share only what is needed to arrange your trip.

The day-by-day itinerary on each tour page shows which meals are planned, such as breakfast, lunch or dinner, and the included and excluded lists say whether drinks are covered. Meals that are not listed are your own arrangement unless the tour page says otherwise. If you follow a particular diet, tell us when you book.

Accommodation details appear in your itinerary and booking documents once they are confirmed. Until then, a document may say that arrangements are to be confirmed rather than naming a property, and we do not call an itinerary final while key arrangements are still open. Check your booking page for the latest version and your emails for any update.

It depends on the tour. The tour page states where the tour starts and ends and whether a pick-up is included. If a transfer is not part of your tour, you can ask whether one can be added when you book or plan through Plan your trip or Contact us. We cannot promise it for every tour, and any transfer is confirmed in writing, so have your flight details ready.

Each tour page lists the start and end locations and the meeting point, and your itinerary repeats them. Where a tour supports pick-ups from other places, the booking steps ask for your pick-up location. Check your itinerary and booking emails close to departure for any update, and contact us if the meeting arrangements are unclear.

The transport summary on each tour page explains how travellers get around, for example by road in a safari vehicle, and notes any other legs a particular tour needs. Journeys in Kenya can take longer than the distance suggests because roads and traffic vary, so read the stated travel times for each day. Details for your booking are confirmed in your itinerary.

Flights are your own arrangement unless the tour page or your booking says otherwise, so check the included and excluded lists and plan your arrival to reach the meeting point in good time. If you would like help with internal flights as part of a custom trip, ask when you plan; availability depends on the trip and is confirmed in writing.

Where a tour supports it, the booking steps ask for your pick-up location. Otherwise, ask us through Contact us or Plan your trip. Pick-ups depend on the route, timing and availability, and a request is confirmed only when the team replies in writing. Please do not assume a pick-up from a place that is not stated in your itinerary.

Tell us as early as you can through Contact us, quoting your booking reference and the new arrival details. What can be done depends on the tour, the supplier and the time left, and we cannot promise a change in advance, so keep your itinerary and meeting details to hand. Travel insurance may help with costs caused by delays; check your policy.

Many trips can work for families, but it depends on the tour. Each tour page states whether children are welcome and any minimum age, and some activities, such as a high-altitude trek, have restrictions. Tell us the children's ages and we will say honestly whether a tour suits them, or suggest an alternative through Plan your trip.

Enter the number of adults and children when you choose your departure, and give the children's ages where the booking asks for them. The total is worked out under that tour's rules and is shown before you confirm. If a tour has age limits, the tour page states them, so check it before you start.

Minimum ages are set per tour and sometimes by the park, lodge or activity provider, so there is no single rule for every trip. The tour page and its important notes state any limits. Rules can change, so we confirm them for your booking, and we may ask for the children's ages before agreeing a plan.

Yes, that is what Plan your trip is for. Share the children's ages, meal and rest routines, and how long they cope in a vehicle, and the team can suggest shorter drives, a slower pace and family-friendly stays where they are available. We will be honest where a destination or activity is not a good fit.

You can ask, but please do not assume equipment is provided. Availability of child seats, cots or similar items depends on the tour, the vehicle and the property, so raise it when you book or plan. If it is confirmed, it appears in your booking details; if it is not, consider bringing your own where that is practical.

Generally yes: every traveller, including children and babies, needs their own valid travel documents, and entry rules for minors, such as consent paperwork when travelling without both parents, can differ by country. Rules change, so check with the immigration authorities of the countries you travel to and from, and your own government's travel advice, well before you go.

Request a cancellation from your booking page; if you booked as a guest, contact us through Contact us with your booking reference. A request is not an automatic cancellation: the team reviews it against the terms that apply to your booking and replies in writing, and any refund depends on those terms. Read Cancellation policy and your booking terms before you decide.

That depends on the terms of your booking, what you have paid, how near the departure is and the conditions of suppliers such as accommodation. Amounts and deadlines are not set out in these answers, so please read Cancellation policy and your booking terms. The team confirms any refund due for your booking in writing.

A refund moves through stages: requested, approved, processing and completed. Approval does not mean the funds have already reached you, because the return still has to be processed through the original payment method or an agreed alternative. Your booking page shows the current stage, and we email you when it changes.

Ask from your booking page or through Contact us, quoting your booking reference. A new date depends on availability and supplier conditions, and it may change the price. The change takes effect only when the team confirms it in writing, and the change is recorded on your booking. Until then, your original booking stands.

Yes, tell us as soon as you notice a mistake. Where your booking allows it you can update traveller details yourself; otherwise ask through Contact us. Names should match the traveller's passport or identity document, so check them carefully when booking. Corrections that affect availability or price need the team's approval.

You can ask. Changing the number of travellers affects availability and the total, so it is handled as a change request that the team reviews rather than something you edit directly. Make the request from your booking page or through Contact us, and do not assume the change is made until the team confirms it.

Sometimes arrangements change because of park conditions, weather or supplier availability. If a material change is made after you book, we tell you by email and publish the updated itinerary in your account, keeping your original booking record. Your options then depend on your booking terms and Cancellation policy, so contact us if the change does not work for you.

A new booking that is not paid within its payment period expires, and the places it held are released. For balances, we send reminders by email before the due date, and what happens after a missed date depends on your booking terms. If you are having difficulty paying, contact us before the date rather than after, so the team can tell you what is possible.

Think light layers in muted colours, a warm layer for cool mornings and evenings, a hat, sunglasses, sun protection, comfortable closed shoes, insect repellent, binoculars, a camera and any personal medication. A soft bag is usually easier to load than a rigid suitcase. Your booking documents may give luggage guidance, and our guides at our travel guides cover packing in more depth.

Entry requirements depend on your nationality and where you travel from, and they can change, so check them with the Kenyan government's official immigration sources and your own government's travel advice before you buy flights. A passport with enough remaining validity is normally needed. Visas and travel documents are the traveller's responsibility and are not included unless your booking says so.

Insurance is the traveller's responsibility and is not included unless the tour page says so. We encourage you to arrange cover that suits your trip, such as medical care, emergency evacuation, cancellation and baggage, and to read what the policy excludes, including activities such as hiking. Compare policies carefully and check them against your booking terms.

We cannot give medical advice. Health requirements and recommendations depend on your own health, your age and where you travel from, and they can change. See a doctor or travel clinic well before departure and check official public-health sources for current guidance. Ask about protection against mosquito-borne illness, and tell us only about needs you would like us to plan around.

It depends on what you want. Wildlife viewing, beach weather and hiking conditions all vary by region and by season, and they differ from year to year. Our destination pages and the guides at our travel guides explain the general pattern. Treat seasonal information as guidance, not a promise, and ask us if your dates are fixed.

Many visitors travel without problems, but conditions vary by area and change over time, so we cannot promise a trouble-free trip. Check your own government's current travel advice, follow your guide's instructions, especially around wildlife, keep valuables secure and take sensible precautions in cities. Travel insurance is also worth arranging.

Coverage is generally better in towns but can be patchy or absent in parks and remote areas, so plan for periods without signal and download maps or documents beforehand. Cards are accepted in many towns and larger properties but not everywhere, so carry some local cash for tips and small purchases. Check with your bank about overseas use before you travel.

Follow your guide's instructions and park rules, keep a respectful distance, stay quiet, remain in the vehicle unless told otherwise, and never feed or call animals. Drones are commonly restricted or need permission, so check current rules and ask us before packing one. Park rules can change, and responsible viewing is covered in our guides at our travel guides.

Use the form at Contact us and quote your booking reference if you have one. Any telephone number, email address or opening hours the company has published appear on that page. The support chat on the site can answer common questions, and signed-in customers can also message the team from their account. For trip ideas rather than questions, Plan your trip is the better route.

Sign in at Your account to see your bookings, itineraries, receipts, saved tours and messages. Open a booking to download its itinerary and the receipt for each verified payment. If you booked as a guest, use the secure link in your booking email instead. Documents appear only once they are published or issued, so a missing one may simply not be ready yet.

Open the secure link in your booking email; a reference alone cannot open a booking. If you cannot find the email, look in your spam folder, then contact us through Contact us with your reference. The team may need to check that the booking is yours before sharing details. If you later create an account, the booking can be linked to it once ownership has been checked.

Go to Create an account and give your name, email address, country, phone number and a password; you may be asked to verify your email. To reset a password, use the forgot password link on Sign in and enter your email. If an account exists, a time-limited reset link is sent, and the reply looks the same either way so that accounts stay private.

The chat answers common questions from approved company information and published tour details. It is not a replacement for the team: it cannot confirm a payment, a booking or a refund, and it does not show private booking details to visitors who are not signed in. When it cannot answer, it points you to Contact us so a person can help.

We email you when something changes, such as a booking received, a payment verified or an itinerary updated, and we send reminders before balance due dates and before departure. Signed-in customers also see these as notifications in their account. If you expect an email and it has not arrived, check your spam folder, then look at your booking page for the current status.

Signed-in customers can update their name, phone number, country and communication preferences from their profile; changing an email address may require it to be verified again. For account closure or requests about your personal data, contact us through Contact us. Some booking and payment records may need to be kept for business or legal reasons even after an account is closed.

Three nights is a sensible minimum, because it allows two full days of game drives after the journey in and before the journey out. Four or five nights give a more relaxed rhythm, more flexibility if weather or sightings change your plans, and time for an optional activity such as a conservancy walk or a cultural visit. The ideal length depends on whether you fly or drive and what else is on your Kenya itinerary, so share your plans when you enquire.

Often you can see at least part of the mountain, but it cannot be promised. Cloud commonly builds around the summit as the day warms, so the clearest views tend to come at sunrise and in the late afternoon. Even in the drier months the summit may stay hidden for days. Plan your drives so that you look toward the mountain early and late, stay flexible, and enjoy the elephants and landscapes whatever the sky decides to do.

Tsavo East is generally flatter, drier and more open, with long plains, red soil and the Galana River at its centre. Tsavo West is hillier and more varied, with volcanic landscapes, springs and denser bush. Many travellers prefer East for space and classic open-country game viewing, and West for scenery and a wider mix of attractions. The two sit on opposite sides of the main highway, and some itineraries include both.

The park offers a range of sightseeing stops, including Mzima Springs, where paths lead beside clear pools, the Shetani lava flow and cave, Chaimu Crater and several viewpoints. Lake Jipe offers a quieter bird-focused outing where boats are available. Many of these activities involve walking, so sturdy shoes, sun protection and water are important. Your guide can help you choose a combination that suits the time you have.

There may be, but flamingo numbers vary widely and cannot be promised. They depend on water levels, the chemistry of the lake and the availability of food, and the birds move between the Rift Valley lakes. Some visits bring a long pink fringe along the shore, while others find very few. The lake still offers pelicans, waterbirds, woodland wildlife and fine views, so it is worth visiting with open expectations.

Tides change the character of the beach every day. At high tide the water reaches the beach and is deep enough for swimming, while at low tide it can retreat a long way, leaving rock pools and sandbanks. Many accommodations post tide times, and local staff can advise on where to swim. Planning swims, walks and boat trips around the tide helps you enjoy both.

Keep a respectful distance from turtles, do not touch or chase them and never stand on or break coral. If you come across nesting sites or hatchlings, follow the instructions of local conservation staff, avoid lights and stay clear of the nest. Choose boat operators who brief guests on marine park rules, and avoid buying souvenirs made from shells, coral or turtle products.

Lamu is home to a predominantly Muslim community, so modest dress is appreciated. Cover shoulders and knees, particularly in the Old Town, and ask before photographing people. Be discreet with alcohol and public displays of affection. Remove shoes before entering mosques or homes when invited, and respect prayer times and Ramadan customs. Hiring a local guide helps you to understand local etiquette.

Most trekkers go with an experienced guide, and park rules may require it. A guide understands the weather, the terrain and the signs of altitude sickness, and knows when to turn back. Porters and cooks often join a trek as well. Confirm current requirements with your operator and the Kenya Wildlife Service, and choose a guide who prioritises safety and gradual acclimatisation over speed.

Reputable operators keep a safe distance from hippos, and the crew decides how close the boat goes. Remain seated, keep hands inside the boat and follow all instructions, because hippos are powerful and can be unpredictable. Wind and weather can also affect conditions, so trips may be delayed or shortened. Ask your accommodation which operators they recommend.

Yes, the park is one of the few in Kenya where cycling and walking are allowed, although rules can change and are managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service. You may see grazing animals close to the road. Keep a respectful distance, avoid sudden movements and follow ranger and guide advice. Large animals can be unpredictable, so never approach them for a closer view.

The park is known for views of wildlife with the city skyline behind, and lions live in the park, but sightings depend on luck, the time of day and the movement of the animals. Giraffes, zebras and buffalo are often easier to spot. Your driver-guide will use experience and local information to look for predators while respecting the animals' space.

Popular options include the national museum, the Karen Blixen Museum, Karura Forest, craft markets, cultural performances and the city's restaurants and cafés. The giraffe centre and elephant orphanage offer close animal encounters in a conservation and education setting. How much you can fit in depends on traffic, so choose a few activities in the same area rather than trying to see everything.

The phrase usually refers to five species associated with northern Kenya: the Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, beisa oryx and gerenuk. They are well adapted to dry country and are found less commonly in the south. Seeing them is a possibility rather than a certainty, but a guide who knows the reserve will look for them while enjoying everything else along the way.

Ol Pejeta is a not-for-profit conservancy, so tourism income helps to fund wildlife protection and community work. Activities and rules are set by the conservancy rather than a national park authority, and may include options such as night drives or guided walks. Always confirm what is available during your dates with your operator.

Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed on any safari. The Maasai Mara is home to lions, elephants, buffalo and leopards, and rhinos live there in small numbers, but what you encounter depends on the season, the animals' movements and a measure of luck. Your driver-guide's local knowledge helps, and a patient, unhurried approach to each drive usually makes for the most rewarding day.

Views of Kilimanjaro depend on weather and visibility and cannot be guaranteed. The summit is often clearer in the early morning and late in the day, but cloud can cover it for long periods. Whatever the sky does, the open Amboseli landscape, its wildlife and its birdlife make the days worthwhile, and your driver-guide will make the most of any clear moments.

Not unless your quotation says so. The coast can be reached by a domestic flight, by rail to Mombasa with a road transfer, or by road, and schedules and routes change. Your written quotation states which arrangement applies, whether it is included in the price, and which transfers to and from the accommodation are covered.

The trip has moderate physical demands. Cycling and walking involve sustained effort on uneven ground in sun and heat, and cycling requires confidence on a bicycle. You do not need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable with several hours of gentle activity. Tell us about any health or mobility concerns when you enquire so we can confirm what is suitable.

It depends on the configuration. The transfer may be by road, by rail where timetables suit, by a domestic flight or by a combination. The final itinerary specifies which applies, and no connection is promised until schedules and arrangements are confirmed. Each choice has different journey times and costs, so tell us your preference when you enquire.

The day safari is a wildlife outing inside a national park, led by a driver-guide in a safari vehicle. A city tour covers urban sights such as museums, markets and cultural venues. The two can be combined across a longer stay, and we can suggest how to fit both around your schedule.

Ol Pejeta is known for its rhino conservation work, but sightings are never guaranteed. Animals move freely and conditions vary, so what you see depends on the day. Your driver-guide and the conservancy rangers will look for good opportunities while keeping a respectful distance from the animals.

The route includes several long road days, notably between Lake Nakuru and the Maasai Mara and on the return to Nairobi. Journey times depend on road conditions and stops. The four nights in the Mara give you more time on game drives, and a flight can be quoted as an alternative to shorten a long road leg.

The circuit includes several long road days and frequent changes of accommodation, which some children and older travellers find tiring. Families with younger children may prefer a slower route or flown legs. Share the ages and interests of your group when you enquire and we will suggest a pace that suits everyone.

The trek is demanding. You should be able to walk for many hours on several consecutive days, carrying a day pack, in cold and changeable weather and at altitude. Regular walking and cardiovascular training beforehand helps, and a medical check is wise. The mountain is not suitable for everyone, so be honest when you enquire.

Snorkelling is usually possible with a boat operator, but it depends on tides, weather and operator availability, and it is an optional extra priced separately. Conditions vary through the year. Ask when you enquire and we will confirm what can be arranged, what equipment is provided and how conservation guidance is followed.

Most travellers reach the Lamu archipelago by air to a nearby airstrip, followed by a short boat transfer, though road and boat routes also exist. Schedules and conditions change, so the quotation confirms the arrangement. Please also check current official travel advice for the area before you travel.

Samburu is drier and more rugged than southern parks, with a river drawing wildlife into the landscape. It is associated with species adapted to dry country, such as reticulated giraffe, Grevy's zebra and gerenuk. Sightings are never guaranteed, but the scenery and the sense of space make it distinctive.

There is no single answer. Camps and lodges set their own minimum ages and rules, and children differ in how they cope with long drives. We choose properties and plan the pace around the ages in your group. Tell us how old your children are when you enquire and we will advise honestly.

Yes. Tell us what you are celebrating and we can ask the camp about special touches, such as a private dinner or a decorated room, which are subject to availability and may be priced separately. Nothing is promised until it is confirmed in your written quotation.

On a private safari you have your own vehicle and driver-guide, so the start times, stops and pace follow your group rather than a shared schedule. It can suit families, friends and photographers. A private arrangement changes the pricing basis, and the details are set out in a written quotation.

You tell us your interests, group, preferred timing and the kind of trip you imagine, and we propose a day-by-day itinerary with accommodation, transport and activities. We refine it with you, then confirm everything in a written quotation. Nothing is booked until you have reviewed and confirmed that quotation.

That depends on when you travel and on how the herds move that year. Wildebeest and zebra generally spend part of the second half of the year in the Mara, but their movements follow rainfall and grazing rather than a fixed calendar, and river crossings cannot be predicted. Even outside the migration months the reserve supports resident wildlife all year round. Ask your operator for current information once your dates are chosen, and treat the migration as a welcome bonus rather than a promise.

Two nights usually cover the main swamps, plains and viewpoints, and three nights give a slower pace and more than one chance at mountain views. Amboseli is compact, so many travellers combine it with Tsavo, Nairobi or the coast rather than staying longer. The right length depends on your route, how you travel and what else you want to see, so discuss your plans with your operator.

Elephants often dust themselves with the soil around them, which helps to protect their skin from sun and insects. In Tsavo East the soil is red, so the dust gives the animals a distinctive rusty colour. Their natural grey returns after they bathe in water or after rain washes the dust away. Seeing red elephants is not guaranteed, but the park is well known for them.

It can be, because thicker bush and uneven ground make animals harder to see from a distance. That means the experience is often slower and more subtle, with rewards for patience and good guiding. Some travellers enjoy the variety of scenery and the sense of discovery, while others prefer open plains. Wildlife sightings are never certain in any park, so it helps to view the scenery and attractions as part of the experience.

The park is a fenced sanctuary that protects both black and white rhinos, so a sighting is possible. However, no one can guarantee it, because rhinos may rest in woodland or move across a large area. Your guide will use experience and knowledge of recent movements to look for them. Keep your distance, stay in the vehicle and follow instructions so that the animals remain undisturbed.

Many families visit Diani, because the water inside the reef is often calm and many accommodations have gardens, pools and children's facilities. Even so, tides, currents and sun need careful attention, and young children should always be supervised near water. Ask your accommodation about child-friendly facilities, safe swimming times and any minimum ages for activities such as boat trips or water sports.

Watamu offers reef excursions, glass-bottom boat trips, a mangrove creek for birdwatching, a coastal forest with rare species and the ruins of a medieval Swahili town at Gede. Guided walks, dhow outings and conservation visits are also possible. Which activities run depends on tides, weather and operator availability, so build flexibility into your itinerary.

Most visitors fly to the airstrip on Manda Island and cross by boat to Lamu or Shela. Others travel overland to a mainland jetty and take a boat from there. Schedules, journey times and conditions change, and the area is subject to official travel advice, so check current guidance and ask your operator to confirm the route for your dates before you book anything.

You need good general fitness and the ability to walk for several hours a day over several days, often in cold and thin air. The route to Point Lenana does not require technical climbing, but altitude makes it demanding. Prepare with regular hiking, build stamina well ahead of your trip, and speak with a doctor about your health before you commit.

Yes, guided walks on the sanctuary allow close, quiet encounters with grazing animals such as giraffes, zebras, wildebeest and antelope, and there are no large predators on the island. Animals still need space, so keep your distance and follow your guide. Access is by boat, and arrangements depend on conditions and the operator.

The gorge is a highlight, but it requires care because flash floods can occur after rain, even when the weather above you is clear. It is usually explored with a guide who knows current conditions and can advise on routes and closures. Sturdy shoes are important, and the walk involves some scrambling, so discuss fitness and health with your operator first.

A half-day drive in the morning or late afternoon covers the main areas, and a full-day drive allows a picnic and more time at viewpoints and walking areas. Traffic on the way in and out can add considerably to the total, so plan with a margin. Confirm gate times with your operator, as they can change.

One night either side of a safari is a comfortable minimum, giving time to rest after a flight or to settle before departure. An extra full day lets you visit several attractions without rushing. If you are only passing through, a few hours can still include a museum or a meal, but traffic and flight times need a generous margin.

Samburu lies in a semi-arid part of northern Kenya at lower altitude, with less rainfall and more intense heat than the southern grasslands. Water is concentrated along the river, which is why wildlife gathers there. Days can be very hot, while nights and mornings are cooler, so plan for sun protection, plenty of water and a rest in the middle of the day.

Visits to these rhinos are carefully controlled and arranged through the conservancy, usually with rangers and set conditions. Access cannot be assumed, and arrangements may change for the animals' welfare. Ask your operator in advance whether a visit can be requested for your dates, and follow every instruction on the day.

Expect a long day on the road at the start and end of the safari rather than a short transfer. Travel time depends on road conditions, traffic leaving Nairobi, planned stops and the point at which you enter the reserve. Your confirmed itinerary sets out the timings, and we suggest avoiding tight onward connections on the day you return.

The sample itinerary uses Tsavo West, which is generally hillier and more varied than Tsavo East. The final itinerary states which Tsavo park is included and confirms the route and transport arrangements, so please tell us if you have a preference when you enquire. Both parks have their own character, and we can explain the differences.

Conditions depend on the tide, the wind and the time of year, so swimming is not equally easy at every hour. Follow the advice of your hotel and local operators, keep children supervised near the water, and wear reef shoes in shallow areas. Marine activities are always subject to weather, operator availability and safety conditions.

Children may be able to join some activities, but it depends on their age, ability and the rules in force at the time, and we do not describe any activity as suitable for every age. The operator and park rules set minimum ages and conditions. Share the ages of your children when you enquire and we will confirm what is allowed before quoting.

Yes, alternative configurations are possible. The safari part can be placed in Amboseli, Tsavo West or the Maasai Mara, for example, though the transport to the coast and the accommodation costs differ. The exact itinerary, price and inclusions for the version you choose are confirmed in a written quotation.

Often this can be arranged, but timings depend on your flight, city traffic and park opening hours. We would plan generous margins so that the return to the airport is not rushed. Share your flight times when you enquire and we will confirm what is realistic in the quotation.

A sanctuary visit can be arranged where it is open and booked in advance, but it is not assumed to be part of the package until it is listed in your quotation. Opening arrangements and any extra charges are confirmed with the supplier before anything is booked.

Flamingo numbers at Lake Nakuru change with lake conditions and cannot be guaranteed. The park also offers woodland, grassland, other birdlife and wildlife, so a visit is worthwhile whatever the lake is doing. Your driver-guide will share what is being seen at the time of your visit.

Yes, the order of the regions and the number of nights in each can be adjusted, and some legs can be quoted by light aircraft to save time. Any change affects accommodation, transport and fees, so the revised itinerary and price are set out in a written quotation before anything is booked.

Altitude affects people differently, regardless of fitness, and the itinerary is built around gradual acclimatisation. Guides monitor the group and may slow the pace, change the plan or turn back. Speak to a doctor or travel clinic before booking, and make sure your travel insurance covers trekking at altitude.

Sea turtles are associated with this coast, but sightings cannot be guaranteed and depend on conditions and the season. If you do see one, keep a respectful distance, never touch or chase it, and follow the instructions of your boat crew. Responsible behaviour helps protect the animals.

Lamu is a traditional community, so modest dress is respectful: covered shoulders and knees in the old town and away from the beach. Swimwear is for the beach and boat only. Ask before photographing people, and follow the advice of your guide on local customs, including around mosques.

Daytime temperatures in northern Kenya can be high, so game drives are scheduled for the cooler hours and the middle of the day is for rest. Bring sun protection, a hat and a refillable water bottle, and check seasonal conditions before you travel. Conditions vary through the year.

The first day is relatively short, and the transfer to the Maasai Mara is the longest, with breaks built in. Game drives are timed to suit the children, with rest in between. Journey times depend on road conditions and stops, and can be adjusted if your children find long days difficult.

A dawn balloon flight is an optional extra priced separately, and it depends on weather and availability. It is included only if your quotation lists it. If you would like to add one, tell us when you enquire so that it can be requested for the right morning.

Yes. The sample route is a starting point, and the regions, the number of nights and the order can be adjusted, for example by choosing Amboseli or adding a coastal stay. Any change affects the accommodation, transport and fees, so we confirm the new itinerary and price in writing.

Yes. The seven-day outline is only indicative, and the real length is set per request. Journeys can be shorter or considerably longer, and they can include mountains, lakes, the coast, Lamu or northern Kenya. The price and inclusions reflect the choices you make.

Camps inside the reserve place you close to the main game-viewing areas and busier routes. Conservancies are community-owned areas bordering the reserve, and they often limit the number of vehicles and beds. Some allow activities such as walking safaris and night drives, subject to their own rules, and they usually carry their own conservation charges. Each style has its appeal, so the right choice depends on your priorities, your timing and your travelling companions.

The park's elephant herds have been studied for many years, and the animals are often calm around vehicles, which makes careful observation possible from a respectful distance. Open ground and swamps mean families are easy to follow as they feed and move. As with all wildlife, sightings vary from day to day, and keeping your distance and following your guide's instructions protects both the animals and visitors.

Yes, many itineraries do. The park lies between the coast and the inland parks, so a safari here can lead naturally into a stay at Diani, Watamu or elsewhere. Transfers may be by road, and sometimes by rail or air, depending on the route. Schedules and connections change, so your operator should confirm the exact arrangement before you commit to any plan.

No. Hippos and crocodiles live in the pools, so swimming is dangerous and is not appropriate. Visitors walk the paths and viewing points, usually with a ranger, and keep a safe distance from the water's edge. Follow the instructions of the ranger or guide, keep children close and avoid leaning over the banks. The springs are appreciated for their clarity, the vegetation and the animals that live there.

One night allows an afternoon drive and a morning drive, which is enough to see the main lake areas and viewpoints. A second night gives more time for birdwatching, a slower pace and side trips to places such as Menengai Crater or Lake Elmenteita. If Nakuru is part of a longer Rift Valley route, one night is often the practical choice.

Yes. The coast is a popular finish to a safari, and some itineraries begin with Tsavo or Amboseli before heading to the beach. Transfers may be by road, rail or air, depending on the route and the time available, so the plan needs to be confirmed in advance. Allow a day to relax between a long journey and your next activity.

Not necessarily. Trips depend on tides, wind, sea conditions, visibility and the schedules of individual operators, and may be cancelled or changed at short notice for safety. In some months the sea is rougher and less clear. Ask your accommodation or operator what is running during your stay, and avoid fixing a single day as the only chance for an important activity.

Very few. Lamu Old Town is a pedestrian town where people walk, use boats and rely on donkeys to carry goods. This is part of its character and charm. Luggage is usually moved by porters or donkey carts, and it helps to pack light and wear comfortable shoes for stone lanes and uneven paths.

Yes. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of fitness or experience, and symptoms such as headache, nausea, dizziness or confusion should be taken seriously. The strongest protection is a slow ascent, rest days where possible, plenty of water and honest communication with your guide. If symptoms worsen, descending is the safest response.

A day trip from Nairobi is possible but can be rushed, because travel time takes a large part of the day. One or two nights let you enjoy a boat trip, an island walk and a relaxed evening beside the lake, and they allow an early start for neighbouring attractions. Traffic and your wider itinerary will influence the choice.

Moderate fitness is enough for the main routes, which are mostly gentle but include some climbs, heat and sun exposure. Longer loops need more stamina. If you are unsure, start with a shorter ride, take frequent breaks and carry plenty of water. Walking or driving through parts of the park may suit travellers who prefer less physical effort, if park rules allow.

It is possible if your layover is long enough and you allow generous margins for traffic, immigration and check-in. A short morning drive can work, but tight schedules carry risks. Speak to your operator about timing, vehicle arrangements and what happens if delays occur, and consider a safer plan if your flight times are close.

No. The giraffe centre is a separate conservation and education facility in a suburb, where visitors can feed and observe giraffes from a platform. Nairobi National Park is a wildlife park with game drives in natural habitat. They are different experiences and are often combined in one day, but they have separate entrances, opening hours and rules.

Travellers can go by road, which is a long day, often passing through the Mount Kenya region, or fly to a nearby airstrip with a scheduled or chartered service. Journey times depend on route, traffic, conditions and flight schedules. Because conditions in northern regions can change, check current official travel advice and ask your operator to confirm the arrangements.

One or two nights suit most travellers, allowing time for game drives, a conservation visit and a visit to the chimpanzee sanctuary. Many itineraries combine Ol Pejeta with Mount Kenya or Samburu, so the right length depends on your route and interests. Share your plans when you enquire and your operator can suggest a sensible schedule.

The price shown is an illustrative starting price per person, not a confirmed offer. What it covers for your trip, including transport, accommodation, meals, game drives and any reserve fees, is listed line by line in a written quotation, and that quotation confirms the final price before anything is booked. Group size, season and accommodation all influence it.

This is a road safari, with longer travel on the first, third and fifth days and two days that centre on game drives. Journey times depend on the route, road conditions and stops, so your confirmed itinerary will set out realistic timings. If long drives are a concern for your group, ask us about alternative pacing.

Common choices include snorkelling or boat trips, a dhow cruise, a guided forest walk, a day excursion to a nearby marine park or reserve, and water sports. Each depends on weather, tides and operator availability, and each is priced separately. Your itinerary separates anything included from anything optional.

Only where the quotation lists it. Bicycle hire is excluded unless it is stated as included, and cycling is allowed only where park rules permit and conditions are suitable on the day. Your written quotation explains which equipment, guide services and park charges are covered and which are not.

The sample itinerary has two nights on safari and three on the coast, with the transfer on day three. Other configurations may balance the stay differently, depending on transport and accommodation. If you would like more time on safari or on the beach, we can propose a different split and quote it.

The park is known for its rhinos, but wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. Animals move freely, and what you see depends on the time of day, the season and chance. A driver-guide will look for the best opportunities, and the park offers plenty of other wildlife and birdlife.

Some conservancies offer walks and night drives, and these may be available here depending on the rules in force and your accommodation. They are optional, priced separately and confirmed in the quotation. Conditions, safety guidance and availability can change, so we confirm details close to departure.

Yes, private arrangements can be requested, with your own vehicle and driver-guide, and the pace and sequence can be adjusted to suit your group. A private departure changes the pricing basis, and every detail is set out in a written quotation before anything is booked.

Samburu is associated with species adapted to dry country, such as reticulated giraffe, Grevy's zebra and gerenuk, alongside elephants and big cats. Sightings are never guaranteed, and what you find depends on conditions and luck. Your driver-guide will help you look for the region's distinctive animals.

A minimum age applies, and it is confirmed with the guiding supplier before booking. Even above that age, the trek is physically and mentally demanding, and altitude and cold are serious considerations for young people. Tell us the ages and experience of anyone in your group when you enquire, and we will advise honestly.

Watamu can be reached by air to a nearby airstrip, by rail and road from the south, or by road. Schedules and availability change, so your quotation states the confirmed arrangement and whether transfers are included. Tell us where you are travelling from and we will suggest the most practical option.

The pace is gentle, with no vehicles in the old town, but streets are narrow and uneven and boat transfers involve steps and sometimes a wet landing. Tell us about any mobility needs when you enquire and we will confirm what is realistic with your accommodation and guides.

A flight to a nearby airstrip can be quoted as an alternative to the long road journey, which saves time but adds cost, and luggage limits usually apply on light aircraft. Schedules and availability change, so we confirm the arrangement in the written quotation before anything is booked.

Family rooms, family tents or interconnecting rooms may be available depending on the property and your group size. Availability and arrangements are confirmed in the written quotation, and nothing is treated as reserved until the quotation has been accepted. Tell us how many adults and children are travelling.

A flight into the reserve can be quoted as an alternative to the road journey, saving time at extra cost. Luggage limits usually apply on light aircraft, and schedules can change. We confirm the arrangement, and what it adds to the price, in your written quotation before anything is booked.

Group size depends on the vehicle and the accommodation. A standard safari vehicle seats a limited number of guests, and larger groups may need two vehicles or different room arrangements. Tell us who is travelling when you enquire and we will confirm what works.

It helps to share who is travelling and their ages, the places and experiences you are drawn to, your preferred timing and length, the style of accommodation you like, and any mobility or dietary needs. The trip planning form asks for these details, and we follow up if anything needs clarifying.

It can be, when the visit is arranged openly and with the community's agreement. Look for visits organised by the community itself or by an operator who can explain how the visit is arranged and how it benefits the people involved. Ask before photographing individuals, dress modestly, and treat the visit as a conversation rather than a performance. Decline any visit that feels staged, rushed or pressured, and talk to your operator beforehand about what to expect.

In drier months the plains can be dusty, especially on dust flats and busy tracks. Pack a scarf or buff, sunglasses and a lightweight layer, and keep cameras in sealed bags between photographs. Change lenses sparingly and away from open air. Most lodges can arrange laundry, but darker, practical clothing is easier on dusty days. If you wear contact lenses, bring glasses and eye drops as well.

It can be, particularly for travellers who enjoy space, big skies and a quieter atmosphere than busier reserves. The park rewards patience, and distances are long, so it suits those who are comfortable with extended drives. If you want to maximise your chances of seeing a wide range of wildlife in a short time, discuss alternatives with your operator, who can compare options for your dates and interests.

Tsavo West is generally the more convenient neighbour for travellers coming from Amboseli, as routes between the two are shorter than to Tsavo East. The exact time depends on the gates, the road conditions and where you stay, so your operator should confirm the route in advance. Some itineraries use Tsavo East instead, especially when the journey continues toward the coast.

Lake Naivasha and Hell's Gate National Park are popular companions, and Lake Elmenteita, Lake Bogoria and Menengai Crater lie within reach as well. Many travellers also use Nakuru as a stop on the way between Nairobi and the Maasai Mara. The right mix depends on how much time you have, how you like to travel and whether you prefer birds, scenery or active experiences.

Snorkelling and diving trips, dhow sailing, and boat excursions to the Kisite-Mpunguti marine protected area from Shimoni are popular choices. Kitesurfing and paddleboarding are also available. All of these depend on weather, tides, sea conditions and operator availability, so it is wise to keep your plans flexible and to book through reputable operators recommended by your accommodation or tour operator.

Watamu is generally smaller and quieter, with sheltered bays, a marine park, a mangrove creek and a coastal forest close by. Diani is a longer beach with a wider range of resorts and water sports. Both depend on tides, weather and seasons. Your choice may turn on how you like to spend your days, how far you are travelling and how you want to combine the coast with a safari.

Three to five nights suit most travellers, allowing time for the Old Town, a dhow trip and a few unhurried days at Shela or on a nearby island. A shorter visit can work if Lamu is one stop on a larger coastal itinerary, while longer stays suit those who enjoy a very slow pace. Tides, winds and flights can all affect the plan.

Yes. The lower slopes offer forest walks, birdwatching, scenic drives and stays at lodges with views of the peaks, none of which require high-altitude trekking. Nearby conservancies and the town of Nanyuki add wildlife viewing and cultural stops. These experiences suit travellers of many fitness levels, but weather and conditions still need checking.

Many itineraries stay at the lake and visit Hell's Gate as an active outing, because the two are close. The lake offers a gentle, water-based experience, while the national park is rockier and more physical. A common plan is a boat trip or lakeside rest one day and cycling or walking in the park the next, with weather and park rules shaping the details.

Bring a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a refillable water bottle, closed shoes, a light rain layer and a packed lunch or snacks. A small first-aid kit and a daypack are useful. Wear clothes that allow free movement for cycling or scrambling. Check with your operator whether bicycles, helmets and guides are provided or arranged separately.

Yes, the park protects a significant population of black rhinos, and it is an important place for rhino conservation. Seeing one is possible but not certain, since the animals can rest in thick cover or move across a large area. Keep your distance, stay in the vehicle and follow your guide's instructions.

The most reliable approach is to use transport arranged by your operator or accommodation, or a well-regarded ride service, and to avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. Keep phones and valuables out of sight in traffic, lock car doors and carry only what you need. Local advice on neighbourhoods is valuable, and hotels can offer current guidance.

Some community conservancies near Samburu offer guided walks led by local guides, while walking is generally not permitted inside national reserves. Availability depends on the property, the conservancy rules and safety conditions. If a walk interests you, mention it when you plan your trip so that your operator can check what is possible during your stay.

Children are generally welcome on safari, but suitability depends on their age, the camp or lodge and the length of the road journey. Some properties set minimum ages or limit certain activities. Tell us the ages of the children in your group when you enquire and we will confirm what each property allows before preparing your quotation.

The sample itinerary uses a lodge or tented camp near each park. Properties differ in size, style and facilities, and the choice affects the final price. The accommodation is named in your written quotation, and no property is treated as reserved until that quotation has been accepted and confirmed.

It suits couples, families, friends and solo travellers who want a restful coastal stay with room to choose how active to be. Private arrangements can be requested where available. Tell us who is travelling, including the ages of any children, and we will recommend suitable accommodation and room types.

Bring sturdy closed shoes, a hat, sun protection, a refillable water bottle, light layers and a small day pack. Weather can change, so a light rain layer is sensible. Follow the guidance of rangers and guides, and carry any medication you need. Our packing guide covers clothing and footwear in more detail.

Optional coastal activities are treated as extras unless your quotation lists them as included. Their prices and availability are stated separately and depend on weather, tides, operator availability and safety conditions. The days on the coast are designed so that you can rest completely or add an outing as you prefer.

At higher camps and near the summit, nights can fall below freezing and the wind can feel colder still. Days can be sunny and warm at lower levels, then change quickly to cloud, rain or snow. Layered clothing, waterproofs, warm hats and gloves and a sleeping bag suited to cold conditions are important. Ask your operator for a packing list matched to the route.

International flights normally use Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, while Wilson Airport serves many domestic and charter flights, including some to safari airstrips. Always check which airport your flight uses, because the two are in different parts of the city and traffic between them can be slow. Your operator can confirm the airport and the check-in time.

Optional activities, including a visit to a local community, can be quoted where they are properly arranged and priced separately. They depend on availability, timing and the arrangements at your camp. Ask when you enquire and we will confirm what is possible, and what it adds to the cost, in your written quotation.

Yes, a private safari can be requested on enquiry, with your own vehicle and driver-guide. Private arrangements change the pricing basis and may allow more flexibility with timings. Share your dates, group size and preferences through the trip planning form or the contact page and we will respond with a written quotation.

Yes. The stay can be lengthened, or combined with a safari so that you spend time in the bush before the coast. A ready-made option is the six-day safari and beach holiday, and a fully custom route can be planned through the trip planning form. Each combination is priced separately in its own written quotation.

Both places support wildlife. The lake is known for waterbirds and hippos, while Hell's Gate has zebra, buffalo, antelope, baboons and birds of prey. Sightings are never guaranteed and depend on timing, season and luck. Keep a respectful distance, follow ranger instructions and enjoy what the day offers.

The main factors are the safari destination, the coastal resort, the way you travel between them, group size, room types and season, plus whether park fees, meals and transfers are included. The starting price shown is illustrative. A written quotation sets out the confirmed price and inclusions before anything is booked.