The very word ‘safari’ – Swahili for ‘journey’ – is rooted in Kenya. Though much has changed since the first expeditions (you can leave your pith helmet at home), a typical day remains largely unchanged – from rising at dawn to sundowners and storytelling around the fire.
The historic home of safaris, Kenya is famed for its open savannahs where big cats dominate and heavily tusked elephants roam. But linger a while longer and discover sky-scraping mountain peaks, sleepyhead islands, and an energetic, ever-hustling Capital.
The Maasai Mara – with its savannah expanses, pockets of thick bush and the
crocodilicious Mara River – is one of Africa’s most renowned safari destinations. Lions prowl the edge of the plains, hungrily eying herds of zebras and gazelles, as thousands of wildebeest navigate perilous river crossings. Drink it in – G&T and all – with game drives, bush walks, sunrise hot air balloon flights, or over an indulgent hilltop picnic à la Out of Africa.
Beyond the Mara, there’s much more to explore – Amboseli’s big tusker elephants and killer Kilimanjaro views, Laikipia’s rolling plains and conservation strongholds, the pure white sands of the East African coast, and blissfully restful Lamu Island.
Big cats and big mountains
For wildlife – especially big cats – the Maasai Mara is everything. It’s a year-round destination, but between August and September, the reserve hosts the great wildebeest herds on their annual migration to fresh pastures.
It’s deservedly popular, but we have our ways to smoothly sidestep the crowds.
In central Kenya, Laikipia is a whole different mood. Big, open plains roll out from the foothills of the iconic Mount Kenya, the country’s highest peak. The world’s last two northern white rhinos live here, under 24-hour guard. And there are chic private houses that focus as much on wellness activities as traditional game drives.
For the view of all views, it has to be Amboseli. The national park is on Kenya’s southern edge, with snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro looming across the border. The mountain is the dramatic backdrop for elephants – including some of the continent’s last big tuskers – sauntering across the plains. Admire the scenery with a chilled glass of Chenin on yourKili-facing deck.
Turf to surf
Travelling to Kenya doesn’t limit you to safaris. There are mountains to climb, cities to explore, and beaches to lion (get it?).
The Indian Ocean coastline is just a short hop from Nairobi. Fly into the city of Mombasa. Diani Beach lies just to the south. Swathes of ice-white sand are patterned with the shadows of palm trees and lapped by warm waves.
Make your way up the coast to Watamu for kitesurfing in protected lagoons and snorkelling along lively coral reefs. Or just kick back with a cocktail by your beachfront hotel pool. No one’s judging if that’s all you do.
Further north, Lamu is even more laidback. The car-free island is just the tonic for frazzled minds. Life is simple here – lazy starts, beach strolls and long lunches are the order of the day. We recommend leaning into it.
When to go
The dry season is June to October – best for wildlife spotting on safari – but you can travel to Kenya at any time of the year.
