Kenya is a popular destination for safari and beach holidays, offering visitors the chance to experience the best of both worlds. The country is home to some of the most iconic national parks in Africa, such as the Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo, as well as beautiful beaches with stunning coastlines.

Whether you want to see the Big Five, relax on a white sand beach, or explore a vibrant culture, Kenya has something to offer everyone. This article will highlight the top 5 safari and beach destinations in Kenya, as well as tips for planning your trip.

Top 5 Kenya Safari Destinations

1. Masai Mara National Reserve

The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most famous national parks in Africa, and for good reason. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest. The Masai Mara is also a great place to see the Great Migration, which takes place annually between July and October.

During the Great Migration, millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle cross the Mara River in search of new grazing grounds. It is an incredible sight to see, and one of the best places to witness it is from the Masai Mara.

In addition to the Great Migration, the Masai Mara is also a great place to see other wildlife, such as lions, cheetahs, leopards, and rhinos. The park is also home to a variety of birdlife, including over 450 species of birds.

2. Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park is known for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and its large population of elephants. It is also a good place to see lions, leopards, cheetahs, and rhinos.

Amboseli National Park is a relatively small park, but it is home to a high density of animals. This makes it a great place to see wildlife up close.

One of the best things to do in Amboseli National Park is to go on a game drive. Game drives are typically led by experienced guides who know the park well. They will be able to take you to the best places to see wildlife.

3. Tsavo National Park

Tsavo National Park is the largest national park in Kenya and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and rhinos. Tsavo National Park is also a good place to see birdlife, with over 500 species of birds recorded in the park.

Tsavo National Park is divided into two parts: Tsavo East and Tsavo West. Tsavo East is the larger of the two parts and is more arid. Tsavo West is the smaller of the two parts and is more lush.

One of the best things to do in Tsavo National Park is to go on a game drive. Game drives are typically led by experienced guides who know the park well. They will be able to take you to the best places to see wildlife.

4. Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve is known for its unique landscape and its diverse wildlife, which includes elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and rhinos. Samburu National Reserve is also a good place to see the gerenuk, a long-necked antelope that is only found in a few select areas of Africa.

Samburu National Reserve is a relatively small park, but it is home to a high density of animals. This makes it a great place to see wildlife up close.

One of the best things to do in Samburu National Reserve is to go on a game drive. Game drives are typically led by experienced guides who know the park well. They will be able to take you to the best places to see wildlife.

5. Meru National Park

Meru National Park is a lesser-known national park in Kenya, but it is just as beautiful and diverse as the other parks on this list. Meru National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and rhinos. It is also a good place to see birdlife, with over 400 species of birds recorded in the park.

Meru National Park is a relatively large park, and it is possible to go on foot safaris in addition to game drives. Foot safaris are a great way to get closer to the wildlife and to experience the park in a more intimate way.

Kenya Beach Holiday Destinations

1. Diani Beach

Diani Beach is one of the most popular beach destinations in Kenya. It is known for its white sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and lush palm trees. Diani Beach also has a variety of water sports activities available, such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

In addition to water sports, there are also a number of other activities to enjoy in Diani Beach, such as:

  • Visiting the Colobus Conservation: The Colobus Conservation is a reserve that is home to over 200 colobus monkeys. Visitors to the reserve can learn about the monkeys and see them up close.
  • Visiting the Shimba Hills National Reserve: The Shimba Hills National Reserve is a small park located near Diani Beach. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and rhinos. It is also a good place to see birdlife, with over 400 species of birds recorded in the park.
  • Visiting the Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest: The Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest is a sacred forest that is managed by the local community. The forest is home to a variety of plants and animals, and it is also a place of cultural significance for the local people.

2. Malindi Beach

Malindi Beach is another popular beach destination in Kenya. It is known for its long stretch of white sand beach, clear turquoise waters, and laid-back atmosphere. Malindi Beach also has a variety of water sports activities available, as well as several historical sites to visit.

One of the most popular historical sites to visit in Malindi is the Vasco da Gama Pillar. This pillar was erected in 1498 by Vasco da Gama to commemorate his discovery of Kenya.

Another popular historical site to visit in Malindi is the Gedi Ruins. These ruins are thought to have been built in the 13th century, and they are a reminder of the rich history of the region.

3. Lamu Island

Lamu Island is a small island located off the coast of Kenya. It is known for its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and traditional Swahili culture. Lamu Island is also a good place to go snorkeling and diving.

One of the best things to do on Lamu Island is to simply relax and enjoy the atmosphere. There are a number of cafes and restaurants on the island where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while watching the world go by.

Another popular activity on Lamu Island is to go on a boat trip. There are a number of boat operators on the island that offer trips to nearby islands and reefs.

4. Watamu Beach

Watamu Beach is a beautiful beach destination located on the coast of Kenya. It is known for its white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and coral reefs. Watamu Beach also has a variety of water sports activities available, such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

One of the most popular things to do in Watamu Beach is to go snorkeling or diving. The coral reefs in Watamu are home to a variety of marine life, including fish, turtles, and dolphins.

Another popular activity in Watamu Beach is to visit the Arabuko Sokoke Forest. This forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and leopards. It is also a good place to see birdlife, with over 400 species of birds recorded in the forest.

5. Kilifi Beach

Kilifi Beach is a secluded beach destination located on the coast of Kenya. It is known for its white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lush palm trees. Kilifi Beach is also a good place to go snorkeling and diving.

One of the best things to do in Kilifi Beach is to simply relax and enjoy the atmosphere. There are a few cafes and restaurants on the beach where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while watching the waves roll in.

Another popular activity in Kilifi Beach is to go on a boat trip. There are a number of boat operators on the beach that offer trips to nearby islands and reefs.

Tips for Planning Your Kenya Safari and Beach Holiday

  • The best time to visit Kenya for a safari is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this time, the weather is mild and the animals are easier to spot.
  • The best time to visit Kenya for a beach holiday is during the dry season, but it is also possible to visit during the wet season (November to May), as the weather is still relatively warm.
  • When booking your safari and beach holiday, it is important to book your flights and accommodation well in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
  • It is also important to pack for all types of weather, as the climate in Kenya can vary depending on the region and time of year.
  • Be sure to get a visa before you travel to Kenya. You can apply for a visa online or at the Kenyan embassy or consulate in your home country.

FAQs

How much is an average 10 day Kenya safari and beach holiday cost?

The cost of a 10 day Kenya safari and beach holiday will vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type of accommodation you choose, the activities you want to do, and the time of year you visit. However, you can expect to pay around $2,000-$3,000 per person for a 10 day mid-range safari.

Here are some tips for saving money on your Kenya safari:

  • Travel during the shoulder season (April-May and September-October). Prices are typically lower during the shoulder season than during the peak season (June-August).
  • Choose a budget-friendly accommodation option, such as camping or a budget lodge.
  • Limit the number of activities you do. The more activities you do, the more expensive your safari will be.
  • Book your safari in advance. This will give you the best chance of getting the best price.

How much is a 4 day safari and beach holiday in Kenya?

A 4 day safari and beach holiday in Kenya will cost around $1,000-$1,500 per person. This will include accommodation, meals, transportation, and game drives.

Which month is best for safari and beach holiday in Kenya and Tanzania?

The best time for safari and beach holiday in Kenya and Tanzania is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this time, the weather is mild and the animals are easier to spot.

Conclusion

Kenya is a fantastic destination for safari and beach holidays. With its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and friendly people, Kenya has something to offer everyone.

Whether you want to see the Big Five, relax on a white sand beach, or explore a vibrant culture, Kenya is the perfect place for your next vacation.

When planning your trip, be sure to book your flights and accommodation well in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season. It is also important to pack for all types of weather, as the climate in Kenya can vary depending on the region and time of year.

Finally, be sure to get a visa before you travel to Kenya. You can apply for a visa online or at the Kenyan embassy or consulate in your home country.

We hope you have a wonderful time in Kenya!