When the mind’s eye dreams of an African safari, chances are, it’s a portrait of Kenya Safari. It’s in Kenya where the modern African safari culture was born and to this day, Kenya remains the ultimate destination for wildlife viewing in Africa be it for private travelers, groups or families.

From tropical forests that hug the Indian Ocean and open savannah to arid shrubland and Rift Valley lakes, Kenya’s appeal is as diverse as its kaleidoscope of landscapes. Layered upon Kenya’s dramatic scenery are wonderful opportunities to connect with Indigenous Kenyan tribes (peoples), a pleasing climate well suited to year-round travel, streams of wildlife moving with the Great Migration, and sumptuous safari lodges and tented camps to give you an amazing stay while on your Kenya wildlife safari, or Kenya cultural safari tour with the mighty team from Tribes Africa Safaris.

Sharing a border with Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, the breathtaking Maasai Mara National Reserve is Kenya’s most famous wildlife safari destination—and it’s got the wildlife to back up its legendary reputation of the amazing tribes of the Maasai. Casting an eye further north, another exciting Kenya safari adventures await on the Laikipia Plateau and in Samburu County—each worth a visit when you plan to travel to the Magical Kenya for the breathtaking Kenya wildlife safari or Kenya Cultural Tour. South of the Mara, immerse into the heart of Maasai land in Amboseli & Chyulu Hills, where elephant herds gather in the shadows of the formidable Mount Kilimanjaro! Isn’t that an incredible thing to watch while on safari with Tribes Africa Safaris inside the magical Kenya for the amazing Kenya wildlife safari and Kenya cultural safari tour? GET IN TOUCH!

Across the country, Kenya’s collection of private conservancies is writing biodiversity comeback stories. For travelers staying in a conservancy, the upside is three-fold: exclusivity away from mass market crowds, knowing tourism dollars cycle directly into conservation and local communities, and a wider diversity of activities not possible in Kenya (or Tanzania’s) national parks and reserves. When you’ve raised your last sundowner on safari, make an easy transfer to a Lamu Island beach or relax into the serene, forested foothills of the Mathews Range.

What to expect on a safari in Kenya?

For the most part, Tribes Africa Safaris in Kenya focus on game drives as the primary mode of wildlife viewing. Days are typically scheduled around an early morning and an afternoon drive. Sunset is observed with sundowners in-hand—a gin and tonic is the tradition, but you might pick a tipple from a tailgate mini bar—served in a scenic spot. Depending on your Camp or Lodge, a gourmet, multi-course dinner can be taken convivially with other guests, privately in your room or al fresco in the bush. After dark, you might gather round an outdoor fire, stargaze, enjoy a night game drive (depending where you are), lay out on a star bed, or simply retreat to your room to rest for the next glorious day on safari.

Activities like hot air balloon in Mara, guided bush walks, community or conservation project visits, horseback riding, Camel Safaris, Mountain Biking, Fishing, Scenic flights etc. can be added to your Kenya Tour on request to diversify the day. Kenya has no shortage of accommodation facilities that you can stay in while on the amazing Kenya Wildlife adventure with Tribes Africa Safaris and these accommodations have Spanning diversity of landscapes ranging from open savannah to acacia woodlands, grassland and coastal beaches, and broadleaf forest which makes your stay while on Kenya safari tour very amazing and unforgettable!

KENYA SAFARI TOUR FAQS

When is the best time to see the Great Wildebeest Migration in Kenya?

The Great wildebeest Migration is often presented as a map emblazoned with a clockwise circuit where wildlife cycles between Tanzania’s Serengeti in the south and Kenya’s Maasai Mara in the north, taking place between May and December, reaching the Mara in July and staying through late September. (If only!) In reality, this illustration is an oversimplification of a complex phenomenon. As with anything that moves with the rhythms of nature, the Great wildebeest Migration should be interpreted as a pattern rather than gospel. Still, there are some general guidelines for when and where to visit. We explain it all in our article The Guide to the Wildebeest migration in Africa—have a read!

How Long can I stay at Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya?

The Maasai Mara national reserve is one of Africa’s number one wildlife viewing areas. In our humble opinion, it’s the best. At minimum, you should spend two nights but you can easily spend a week in the Maasai Mara, especially when combining two different areas like Mara North Conservation Area and Naboisho Conservancy, for example. You don’t have to spend the entire time in the game vehicle, either. That’s why you need to contract us whenever you think of travelling to Kenya for the Kenya wildlife safari, is we help you select properties that offer walks, cultural activities and others beside wildlife viewing in the safari Vehicles. So, get in touch with so that we can curate for you an authentic African journey inside the Maasai Mara national reserve in the magical Kenya.

Is there a Malaria risk in Kenya?

Kenya is a malaria endemic country and visitors are at risk of contracting the mosquito-transmitted disease when traveling in areas below 8,200 feet (2,500 meters) above sea level, especially during the short and long rains (March to May and November to December.) The CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Kenya take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Consult your doctor to assess which antimalarial is the best option for you before embarking on a journey inside magical Kenya

Is a Kenya Wildlife Safari Tour family friendly?

Kenya is a very family-friendly African safari destination. In fact, it’s one of our favorite places to send parents traveling with their kids. Many properties offer adjoining rooms or exclusive-use villas for a home-away-from home experience while on a safari in Kenya. Kenya’s conservancies offer the best flexibility, boasting a wide array of activities and amenities. (Think: pools, kid-friendly programming, childminding, “bumbles,” scavenger hunts, etc.) Set on exclusive tracts of protected land, choosing a private vehicle and guide means your day can revolve around your children’s needs, rather than scheduled game drives. Plus, unlike strictly regulated national parks, the littles will be able to stretch their legs beyond the vehicle with a bit more freedom. So, if you are a family person interested in visiting Kenya but wondering where you will leave your children? Well, the answer is that you can feel free to travel with your entire family. Our team will make sure you enjoy your stay with us while on a journey to explore the magical Kenya with us. Pease book our Kenya family package to earn some discounts

Which airport Should I fly in to?

Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is not only well connected to international gateways in Europe (through which many travelers’ transit), it’s also a major hub for East Africa. You can land, catch a night’s rest in a chic hotel and then promptly fly onward to your safari destination or beach escape via a local carrier. So, we always recommend our guests to fly through this international airport because it’s the gateway to east Africa.

Can I travel by Road with Kenya? Or Do I need to fly within Kenya while on safari?

Traveling overland by road is possible in Kenya, thanks to a robust highway network. You’ll often see this option normalized on mass market Kenya safari tours. However, road conditions and the obstacles along them can stretch a journey to an uncomfortable duration. Travelers who have recently spent a full day flying to Kenya won’t likely want to spend much more time in transit. Plus, you’re going to be spending many more hours seated, rumbling down corrugated roads while enjoying game drives!

Most parks, reserves and conservancies in Kenya have one or more airstrips serviced by scheduled or charter light aircraft. These six-to-12 seaters are practical, scenic and more affordable than you might think. The difference in time is appreciable. From Nairobi to the Mara by road can take five-and-a-half hours on a good day; by air, it’s just one hour and 15 minutes. Simply put, flying is a far more luxurious and refined way to get around. Don’t get us wrong, we love the charm of a good road trip that unfurls through pretty landscapes. So, when planning a trip the choice is always yours to make between flying within Kenya or getting to experience our African roads.

Should I visit Kenya or Tanzania? Or both?

Kenya and Tanzania are equally wonderful places to experience a classic, East African safari. Both offer incredible wildlife viewing and share the Great Migration. Kenya’s wild spaces are a collection of national parks, national reserves and private conservancies. A conservancy is land managed by an individual owner, group or community for the purpose of wildlife conservation. They operate in close cooperation with local communities and generate revenue through small scale tented safari camps or lodges. Conversely, much of Tanzania’s protected lands are designated as national parks. (By some estimates, 38 per cent of Tanzania is protected land—one of the highest proportions in the world.) Just as in your home country, national parks in East Africa are subject to permitting, rules, and regulations. From a visitor perspective this means abiding by park hours, possible crowding, and the inability to get out of the safari vehicle to really stretch your legs or enjoy a night game drive. There’s nothing wrong with staying in a national park or reserve, but we love to recommend Kenya’s private conservancies to our travelers. Since they’re not subject to the same stringent standards, you’re able to better direct your schedule, pursue your interests, wander off the beaten track, enjoy guided bush walks or walking safaris, shirk the crowds and enjoy a wider array of activities.

Otherwise, Kenya scores points for accessibility, thanks to better road infrastructure, great international connections to Nairobi, and a longer history of tourism. Its Maasai and Samburu cultural interactions are also a visitor highlight. In EJ’s opinion, the Maasai Mara is second-to-none for game viewing in East Africa.

Alternatively, for some travelers, the appeal of Tanzania’s Northern Circuit (icons include Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater) are a siren’s call they cannot resist. Safari-goers who want to end their trip at the beach might prefer to do so in Zanzibar. Tanzania also offers great chimpanzee trekking safaris, which is not possible in Kenya but we for a better primates or Chimpanzee trekking experience, we recommend you add Uganda on to your itinerary. However, regions of Tanzania can be more difficult to reach, meaning getting around can take longer. It’s also slightly more expensive to go on safari in Tanzania than in Kenya.

With no doubt, those who have the time & the money, can easily combine Kenya and Tanzania on a single itinerary via direct flights connecting the Maasai Mara National Park with the Serengeti national park in Tanzania

When is the best time to go on safari in Kenya?

Even though there is no “bad” time to go on safari in Kenya, July, August, and September during the dry season are conventionally recommended to travelers looking out for iconic Great Wildebeest Migration moments. In addition to potentially witnessing a dramatic river crossing, these are the months when the largest herds of wildebeest and zebra—and the predators who stalk them—are amassing throughout the Maasai Mara National Reserve. However, travelers shouldn’t shy away from visiting the resident game outside of peak season (aka “secret Season “) when crowds thin and intermittent showers paint the landscape in shades of verdant green.  

Since Kenya straddles the equator, the average year-round temperature fluctuates just a handful of degrees. Warmer months hover in the low 80s (~27°C) while the cooler months are still pleasant in the mid-70s (~24°C). For this reason, it’s practical for travelers to think in terms of wet and dry seasons instead—and to consider the elevation of the region they are visiting. 

Dry seasons (yes, plural) in Kenya typically run June to October and December to February. Mid-March through May, and November are Kenya’s wettest months. April and May see the most rainfall, earning them the moniker “the long rains.” November dumps a little less volume, arriving in short bursts, usually in the evening. Resultantly, these are referred to as “the short rains.” Travelers shouldn’t be automatically turned off by a wet season safari. As a trend, bouts of rainfall commonly arrive as an intense downpour and then promptly ease off or stop after an hour or so.  So, all in, you visit Kenya for a safari through out the year with out any issues. But for travelers wishing to visit Kenya during the dry season or Peak season, we recommend you make your bookings early enough for accommodation.

What’s the average cost of a safari in Kenya?

Speaking to the average cost of a safari in Kenya, budget itineraries can start as low as $300 per person per night and Upwards. So, depending on the number of people in the group, it always determines how much money one can spend on a safari in Kenya. The more people in the group the less it becomes. We recommend travelling in groups of at least 4 people so that you can share some of the costs for the trip to be less costly. How if you are a luxury traveler and willing to spend a min of $1000 per person per night based on 2 people sharing, please don’t hesitate to contact us because we handle all kinds of clients from budget to luxury, solo to group travelers. The daily rate is inclusive of accommodation, expert guides, game viewing drives (shared and/or private), meals, and land within Kenya. You’ll need to budget for international flights, visas, gratuities, and incidentals separately

Tourists often ask our Africa safari specialists where they can maximize value, and we are more than happy to advise where to splurge and save, but we cannot conjure camp availability. To achieve the best selection of options within your preferred budget, you want to plan your Kenya safari 6 months in advance—or even earlier. For the Maasai Mara during peak or high season, we recommend (at least) 6months or even earlier ahead; for green season, you might get away with a two-month booking window.

If you’re not bound to traveling during calendar holidays or school breaks and aren’t particularly fussed about the Great Migration, we love recommending traveling in Kenya’s Secrect Season. Not only do the crowds lighten up, but prices become fair to manage. During the months commonly associated with the short and long rains, you’re more likely to find properties offering incentives such as “stay four, pay for three.” Sure, you may encounter some brief bursts of rain, but the landscape will be flush with flora and vitality—a stark contrast from the dusty, parched dry season. (It’s worth noting the summer months are not wholly exempt from precipitation and weather patterns are shifting.)

Is it safe to go on safari in Kenya?

Yes, Kenya is a safe, popular place to enjoy a safari, especially when your visit is organized by a reputable travel operator— Tribes Africa Safaris

Traveling with Tribes Africa Safaris means every last detail of your bespoke Kenya trip is taken care of. You won’t have to worry about things like getting to and from the airport or navigating public transit. Hosts and transportation partners will be anticipating your arrival, and our in-destination concierge will be checking in along the way. Our clients report feeling supported and taken care of.

Unlike the somewhat prescribed and insular safari experience (where most people you’ll encounter are guides, staff or other guests), if your trip passes through an urban center (Nairobi, for example), you may enjoy some self-guided leisure time. No place can be immunized against petty crime or crimes of opportunity, so exercise an awareness of your surroundings and use common sense. Take precautions to protect your belongings, especially valuables. Avoid walking alone at night and public demonstrations; travel only with authorized taxis. If you’re ever unsure, connect with Tribes Africa Safaris so that we can assign a Guide to you

While on safari, nature is unscripted. It’s vitally important that you listen to your guides and follow their instructions—on game drives and while on property. You are, after all, on the home turf of some pretty impressive big game—predators included.

Safari Game Drives are generally very safe and inherently, vehicles offer a level of comfort and security whereas Walking safaris, horseback safaris require some extra precautions, but when enjoyed in the company of experts, are also quite safe.

It’s also important to keep in mind that guides must abide by various park rules. Some national parks limit visitor hours, some maintain you must remain in your vehicle (no walking). Such rules exist to keep you and the animals safe. In private conservancies, there are more flexible options. Most guided wilderness excursions are accompanied by armed rangers. It goes without saying, never approach or attempt to touch wildlife.

On property, many safari camps are unfenced. This results in magical moments like elephants drinking from the swimming pool. It may also mean you need to be escorted to your suite after dark by a Maasai warrior. Note: a boundary-free concept is not always appropriate for young children. Your guide and lodging will offer safety briefings and orientations.

A Wildlife safari in Kenya will bring you through remote wilderness where medical facilities and supplies are limited. Camps and lodges can offer trained first aid assistance and help with common ailments, but serious emergency medical attention may require an evacuation.

Regardless of the destination, we recommend that all clients purchase travel insurance. This should include a policy which would pay for evacuation back home, if needed. If you regularly take prescription medication (or may potentially require it), prepare to bring a sufficient supply with you. If you have a medical condition or chronic disease, you should visit your doctor to discuss any concerns prior to travel.

Much of Kenya’s land area falls under a malaria risk. The blanket advice is to take an antimalarial when traveling below 8,200 feet (2,500 meters) in elevation. Choosing which preventative propyl antic is best for you should be done in consultation with a physician. Note: a resistance to Chloroquine has been observed in Kenya. Otherwise, the CDC encourages travelers to be up to date on all routine vaccines.

Are there travel restrictions or requirements for Kenya?

Visas

All foreign citizens require an e-visa to enter Kenya, with the exception of children under the age of 16. The cost is $50 USD and visas must be obtained and approved in advance of arrival. The application process is performed online. You’re advised to travel with a printed copy in the event an immigration officer requests to see it. Your passport should be valid for a minimum of six months beyond the date of entry, and you’ll need two blank pages. The e-visa is valid for 90 days.

Another option is to apply for a 90-day East Africa Visa, valid jointly for Kenya, Rwanda & Uganda. The cost is $100 USD and you must apply online, in advance through the country you will be arriving. You can cross borders multiple times, but if you leave the block of countries, it is no longer valid.

Vaccines

Kenya is considered a Yellow Fever Zone. If you only plan to travel within the country, there is no vaccine requirement.

If you plan to enjoy some onward travel, the vaccine and its accompanying certificate are required. If you are arriving in Kenya from a yellow fever endemic country (Rwanda, Kenya, Uganda, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Congo or Ethiopia), you’ll also need to show a vaccination certificate. This applies to travelers as young as nine months old.

However, just because a certificate may not be required for travel purposes, you may still benefit from the vaccine. Typically, a single dose offers effective immunity for life. Here is a map that shows the CDC’s Yellow Fever vaccination recommendations for Kenya.

What wildlife will I see on safari in Kenya?

Kenya’s 40-plus national parks, reserves, and private conservancies are home to a diverse range of wildlife—some 25,000 animal species. Depending on the area(s) you visit during your luxury Kenya safari, you might observe buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion and rhino, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, cheetah, hyena, warthog, antelope species (impala, gazelle, eland, kudu), and hippo and crocodile in rivers or waterholes.

Specifically, the Maasai Mara and its adjacent private conservancies, are famous for its concentration of big cats and herds of wildebeest that visit by way of the Great Migration. Elephant lovers should fix an eye upon Amboseli National Park, home to the Amboseli Trust for Elephants, the longest-running elephant study in the world. In northern Kenya’s Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy pay a visit to Reteti Elephant Sanctuary. You’ll be paired with an elephant keeper to learn how Africa’s first community-owned sanctuary “rescues to release.”

Kenya’s rhino populations have suffered a tragic story, falling from some 20,000 members in the 1960s to ~600 today. The market for illegal rhino horns still prevails which contributes to rhino recovery’s limited success. Where preserves and sanctuaries have been established, they require round-the-clock armed protection against poachers. Exciting opportunities to sight endangered black and white rhino exist in Meru National Park, Lewa Conservancy, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Borana Conservancy, Lake Nakuru National Park, and Nairobi National Park. In February 2024, 21 black rhinos have been introduced to Loisaba Conservation Area.

Kenya is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting more than 1,100 recorded bird species. The country has a diverse range of habitats, from arid deserts to wetlands, which provide ideal breeding and feeding grounds. In particular, the Rift Valley lakes (Lake Nakuru, Lake Baringo, and Lake Naivasha) attract a large volume of migratory and resident birdlife. The Mara is also a popular spot for birdwatching, with 470 bird species on record. Kenya icons include the crowned hornbill, African fish eagle, scarlet-chested sunbird, and large concentrations of flamingo.  

Who should go on safari in Kenya?

Kenya is a safari crowd-pleaser for many types of travelers. It’s a fantastic introduction to Africa travel for those new to the continent and for safari first-timers. Repeat visitors have plenty of options for delving deeper, getting into regions like Samburu and Laikipia, not to mention the sheer array of conservancies and gorgeous lodges on offer. Kenya’s smorgasbord of extracurricular activities out of the game vehicle means no two days are alike. 

Otherwise, Kenya ranks among Tribes Africa Safaris top destinations for any traveler interested in an African safari, a place where children aren’t merely tolerated by camp staff but embraced. We particularly like to recommend parents and littles stay in private conservancies where flexibility is king. Private vehicles and guides mean your day can revolve around snack breaks and naps, without the stress of inconveniencing other (kid-free) guests. Childminding and programming like scavenger hunts and “bush bumbles” cater to the interests of busy littles.

Kenya also features as a perennial honeymoon destination in Africa for many travelers (and those celebrating birthdays or anything). Be it the glamor of canvas tents swathed in wilderness or the Out of Africa vibe, couples—whether newly minted or celebrating milestone anniversaries—are romanced by the savannah. 

Many of our favorite small camps are well suited for exclusive-use for small groups, and many properties feature exclusive-use homes or villas. We also know some lovely, family-owned, and hosted properties where solo travelers will feel abundantly welcome.

Kenya is also a destination well suited to active travelers. Mount Kenya offers trekking opportunities, walking safaris invite you into the bush for some fly camping, and helicopter and horseback safaris offer a unique vantage point from which to observe wildlife.

Where to go on safari in Kenya?

Kenya is a country smaller than Texas, of which, half is semi-arid desert that remains a mystery to most travelers. Safari-goers gravitate to the Maasai Mara, Laikipia Plateau, Samburu County (Rift Valley), Amboseli & Chyulu Hills, and Meru national parks. As a trend, travelers arrive via Nairobi and visit two to four different areas before retreating to the beaches of the Kenya Coast.

Maasai Mara National Reserve

It’s rare to find that the Maasai Mara isn’t included on a Kenya safari itinerary—it is second to none for African game-viewing. It’s important to remember this is a national reserve, operating with certain restrictions, including limited hours of operation. You cannot leave your vehicle (bush walks and hikes are not possible), nor are after-dark night game viewing drives.

Laikipia

Another Tribes Africa Safaris favorite is Laikipia, an expansive region stretching from Mount Kenya to the Great Rift Valley and made up of private ranches, communal grazing areas, and private reserves. While it’s not as game-heavy as the Maasai Mara, Laikipia has fewer visitors and gorgeous views of high-altitude grasslands. It’s a great place to get out of the Land Cruiser and into the bush on a horseback safari, camel ride or bush walk. Lewa, Ol Pejeta, Loisaba, and Solio are our preferred conservancies. 

Samburu National Park

Standing in stark contrast to the forests of Meru or the open plains of the Maasai Mara, Samburu County is located on the hot, arid fringes of Kenya’s vast northern region. Venture here to leave the crowds behind, to meet the Samburu people, spot the ‘Samburu Special 5’ (herbivores found only north of the equator) and other unique experiences like rhino tracking on foot and visiting Reteti Elephant Sanctuary. 

A visit to Meru National Park—a lesser-visited park with a two-decade-long comeback story—rewards with glimpses of the Big Five. Rivers and streams are a feature of the park; there’s a rhino sanctuary

Amboseli National Park and the Chyulu Hills

Toward the Tanzania-Kenya border, Amboseli National Park & Chyulu Hills National Park are seated near Tsavo West in the heart of Masai land, preserving an essential migration corridor. It’s a region known for its big game, especially herds of African elephant, framed by views of snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro. 

There are wonderful opportunities for cultural interactions throughout Kenya, particularly in Samburu, Laikipia, and the Maasai Mara.

Nairobi City Tour

A night or two in Nairobi offers a chance to see a bit of the city and get up close and personal with giraffes while shaking the jet lag. Because Nairobi is a major African hub, it is easy to combine a Kenya safari with its coastal beaches. Many Tribes Africa Safaris travelers continue their journey with a gorilla trekking adventure to the neighboring countries of Uganda or Rwanda but for a better gorilla experience, we recommend Uganda

Booking a Wildlife safari in Kenya?

A Kenyan wildlife safari requires diligent planning. We consider weather, timing, animal movements (if the Great wildebeest Migration is a priority) and the availability of the best safari camps—some book up well in advance. Tribes Africa Safaris specialists will happily help you parse out which regions & parks in Kenya will align with your unique interests.

KENYA CULTURAL EXPEDITIONS –TRIBES OF KENYA

Our Kenya Cultural Tours or Kenya cultural expeditions take you to an amazing encounter with Kenya’s authentic indigenous tribes which has not been so much touched by modern day globalization. Traveling to Kenya to Visit Kenya’s tribes exposes you to the traditional beliefs, dances, pastoral life, festivals, marriage ceremonies, polygamous practices, food and lifestyles. While visiting theses tribes on your Kenya Cultural tour or Kenya cultural trip, you will notice just how hospitable Kenyans are to foreigners. The Kenyan culture and tradition is so unique and interesting that many tourists have chosen to stay permanently after interacting with the locals while on the Kenya cultural tour with Tribes Africa Safaris. So if you are out there and wondering where to go for an authentic African culture experience, look no further because Kenya will bring out the best when it comes to cultural tours in Africa and feel free to book our Kenya cultural trips

Kenya’s culture is heavily influenced by expat workers, migrants and inter-marriages that occurred when the first foreign settlers arrived at the East African coast; As a result, it is possible to visit some of the most primitive tribes in Africa and also those that have embraced modern ways of living in the major cities/islands. Each major town and city has its own cultural identity depending on the dominant tribe in the area. English is the national language in Kenya but Swahili is the dominant language. Each tribal group still speaks their own language but Swahili helps unite everybody.

Why go for a Kenyan cultural Tour or experience? Experiencing the culture of people in a new country not only helps you understand your own but also erases any biases you may have about others. You get to know why people behave in a certain way, what makes them different and what you can learn – An example is the value of the extended family and rising of children as a community. Apart from visiting the indigenous tribes living close to the Kenyan national parks, there is also an opportunity to visit schools and central market to learn how people make a living in Kenya.

KENYA’S KEY CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS

An Encounter with the Turkana and El Molo: The Turkana lives in the northern part of Kenya and is also pastoralists like the Maasai. The area where they live is arid forcing them to move from place to place looking for fresh pasture and water for their animals. As climate change and land degradation becomes more prominent, the Turkana are gradually embracing other ways of making a living. It is now possible to find them employed in cities or as fishermen in Lake Turkana. Visiting the Turkana will offer an amazing Kenyan cultural experience that is comparable to the Maasai. A visit is incomplete without visiting Lake Turkana to also visit the endangered El Molo tribe while on the Kenya cultural expedition with Nungi safaris.

National Museums and Archives: Visiting the National Museums and Archives is also recommended for those who are in the country for a short time. The National Archives in Nairobi contains records of all the different cultural groups in Kenya. Visiting the National Museums in Kenya is equally rewarding allowing you to see cultural artifacts and other information left behind by the British colonial government. There is always a resident dance troupe to entertain visitors and showcase all that is good about the people of Kenya.

Spend time with the Luo Speaking people: The Luo is one of the 3 dominant tribes in Kenya. The group moved from South Sudan and traveled to Kenya through Uganda. Most now live in Kisumu or the wider Nyanza province which is close to Lake Victoria. While visiting the Luo people, you will not only experience their rich culture but also visit Lake Victoria and the Kit-Mikayi. Kit-Mikayi is a rock formation with a lot of historical importance to the Luo people. Many villages still go to this rock for sacrifices and prayer.

Experience the Islamic Culture in Lamu: Lamu is the oldest town along the coast of Kenya. It is an archipelago consisting of other islands like Kiwayu. Lamu is a traditionally Swahili and Muslim town hence one of the best places to experience the Swahili culture. It is also a great place to learn about the kind of life lived by the first Arab traders who arrive as early as the 11th Century. They still use Dhows for navigating through the Indian Ocean and donkeys while on the island.

On a typical visit, tourists take time to explore the narrow streets in town before going to enjoy the pristine beaches of the different islands. Other activities in Lamu include swimming with dolphins and other water sports. By the end of your visit to the archipelago, you would have discovered beautiful scenery, ancient buildings and leant a lot about the history of the Swahili language/culture while on your visit into the magical Kenya for the wonderful experience in the Kenyan cultures

Visiting Mombasa: Apart from enjoying the beautiful beaches of the Indian Ocean, Mombasa is one of the best places to experience the Swahili culture in all its variations while on your Kenyan cultural trip with Tribes Africa Safaris. In fact, there is a saying that you have not known the Swahili language until you have met someone from Mombasa. For citizens of Kenya, listening to the Swahili spoken in Mombasa may make you question your own knowledge of the language.

The culture of residents of Mombasa was deeply influenced by the Arab and Persian traders who first visited the coast of East Africa over 400 years ago. They intermarried with the locals resulting in the birth of the Swahili culture. The Arabs, Persians and Europeans left behind stunning architectural wonders which are separate attractions of their own. Fort Jesus for example was built in 1593 by the Portuguese to secure the coastal area and control the lucrative trade with the mainland. As you book your Kenyan cultural trip with Tribes Africa Safaris, you can ask your trip consultant to give you more time in Mombasa because there is a lot tourist attraction to look out for in Mombasa which you will get to enjoy and know when you book our magical Kenya tours

Visiting the Maasai People at the Loita Plains in Narok: The Maasai are one of the few indigenous tribes in Africa that have left their culture intact. The Maasai are a proud and confident people who have gained a reputation as fearless warriors. They stand out because of their colorful garments, jewelry and spear-wielding habit. The Maasai depend entirely on their livestock and because of that live a nomadic life in search of pasture/water. The Maasai tend to live in communities or small settlements that can contain between 8 to 15 houses. The settlements are protected from predators using thorn fences and bushes.

Most travelers who visit the Maasai Mara tend to make a stop at Loita plains in Narok. During this stop, tourists are led by a local Guide to visit the Maasai homesteads. While with the Maasai, tourists can help tend to the goats, sheep and cattle. There is also an opportunity to meet the elders where visitors get to learn more about the history of the Maasai and their culture. If you spend the evening with the Maasai, you can also get a chance to listen to folk songs, stories or dance around the campfire and this is willing a breathtaking moment to experience while on the Kenya cultural tour.

Visit the Kamba People in Machakos: The Kamba is one of the prominent and more assertive tribes of Kenya to look out for when on Kenya cultural trip. Most of them live in Machakos town. This town is now a major tourist attraction and lot of development work was undertaken in recent years. A full national park was established in Machakos recently where tourists who are interested can spot some of Kenya’s famous wildlife while on the wildlife safari in Kenya with Tribes Africa Safaris.

The Mijikenda Kaya forests: To experience the unique cultures of some parts of Kenya, you must visit these sacred forests. There are 11 forests in the area – each surrounded by villages which were built in the sixteenth century. Most of the village folks abandoned the villages in the 1940’s leaving behind the elders to keep the cultural values alive. The elders have ensured that their ancient practices and believes remain intact. Visit the Mijikenda Kaya forests for a truly unique Kenyan cultural experience that is different from everything else we have discussed so far. So are you not scared to try, please book our Kenya cultural tour and experience what real magic is.

Visit the Bomas of Kenya: If you don’t have enough time to visit the individual tribes in the countryside while on your visit to the magical Kenya, you can simply visit the Bomas of Kenya for a chance to see all the different tribal groups in one place. The center was opened in 1971 and is found in Nairobi, along Lang’ata Road. The Bomas of Kenya is special because it offers variety hence allowing tourists to see, experience and learn everything there is to know about Kenya’s different cultural groups. The experience can be overwhelming and we recommend that you set aside a full day to enjoy everything on offer while on your Kenya cultural trip with Tribes Africa Safaris.

The Carnivore Restaurant: If you are visiting Nairobi and do not have enough time to visit the villages upcountry of Kenya, you can simply attend the Theme nights at the Carnivore restaurant. There is also a theme night for each of the major tribes (Kikuyu, Luo, Kamba, Luhya and Kalenjin) in Kenya. Only one tribe is featured in a night to show off their traditional music, dance, foods and local brews. All in all, visiting the theme nights at the Carnivore restaurant offer unique opportunities to learn something about the culture of the different tribes without having to travel upcountry however its best you visit the local communities to fully enjoy the authenticity of the Kenyan cultures while on the Kenyan cultural tour with Tribes Africa Safaris

The Samburu: The Samburu are one of the closest relatives of the Maasai which you do not want to miss out while on the Kenya cultural trip with Tribes Africa Safaris. Like the Maasai, the Samburu have not allowed western influences to erode their original culture.  Like the Maasai, they speak Maa and arrived in Kenya from what is now South Sudan.  Their dancing style is similar to the Maasai and also involves dancing high in circles. The Samburu are also nomadic pastoralists and depend on their animals for survival. The Samburu feed on cow milk, meat and blood. They will only sell their animals on special occasions to get money.