Kenya has long been considered "the" safari destination in Africa. But things have changed since the 1960's and Kenya now finds itself competing with several other incredible safari destinations which offer the "BIG 5" wildlife species with far less tourists and fewer safety concerns.

Although touristy and in many places crowded with inexpensive group tours, great accommodations do exist. Often people, goats and cattle are part of the wildlife experience. Although not a true wilderness destination Kenya provides the first time safari traveler with an overview of the safari experience.

The main reason to visit Kenya is to witness the ungulate (wildebeest) migration. From July through September the Masai Mara teems with over 1.5 million wildebeest and zebra and their natural predators. Insider’s tip – the Masai Mara makes up 3% of the Serengeti ecosystem. If you are planning a once in a life time trip to Africa to view the migration would you wager that the migration will be in this 3% of the ecosystem or in the 97% of the ecosystem – the Serengeti in Tanzania. In our opinion if you want to see the migration visit Tanzania instead.

Other areas to visit include the Samburu Reserve, and Tsavo and Amboseli National Parks. Amboseli is the classic image of Africa. Wildlife abounds with the ever-present and remarkable view of Mount Kilimanjaro to the south in Tanzania. The Great Rift Lakes are also worth visiting.

The quality of accommodations and safari guides varies widely in Kenya and it is vital that you work with an expert to plan your arrangements. Important: Many of Kenya's largest and well known tour operators limit your safari mileage (we won't mention names). Our Kenyan counterpart does not limit client’s time or mileage so that you may enjoy your safari to the fullest!

Due to quality (declining wildlife) and safety concerns (US travel warning) Ultimate Africa is not entertaining new bookings to Kenya at this time.

When to Visit: Late December through early March / late June through October
Big 5 Wildlife Species: Yes
Overall Quality of Safari Guides: 2.5 (varies widely)
Overall Quality of Wilderness Experience: 2.5 (some parks crowded with tourists / cell towers, private ranches/reserves better)
Personal Safety: 1.5 (violent urban and rural crime and terrorism in recent past)
Health Concerns: 2.5
General Infrastructure (roads, telecommunications, water): 2.0
Medical Infrastructure: 3.0
Political Stability: 3.5
Overall Rating: 2.5
(ratings are based on a 5 point scale with 1 being the least desirable value and with 5 being the most desirable value)

Official Language: Swahili, English is widely spoken
Currency: Kenya Shilling
Time Difference: EST +8
Electricity: 220/240 50 cycles
Departure Tax: US $20 cash
Embassy of the Republic of Kenya
2249 R Street NW, Washington D.C. 20008
Telephone: (202) 387-6101
Entry Visa: Required for American tourists - US $50. Purchase visa before departure.