African sunset over layered ridges

Heritage · Experience · Passion

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about planning your safari

Planning Your Safari

Kenya offers excellent wildlife viewing year-round. July to October is peak season featuring the great wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara. January to February offers quieter parks with excellent game viewing. The dry seasons (these months plus June to early July, and December) provide the best game viewing conditions as animals congregate around water sources and are easier to spot.

Safari costs vary depending on accommodation level, season, and group size. Contact us for a personalised quote tailored to your preferences. Our quotes include accommodation, meals, transport in 4x4 vehicles, professional guide, and park fees.

Booking timing depends on your preferred travel season:

  • Peak season (July-October): Book 6-12 months in advance as lodges fill quickly
  • Other months: 3-6 months advance booking is typically sufficient
  • Last-minute: Sometimes possible but with limited lodge and itinerary options

Early booking also allows time to arrange visas and vaccinations comfortably.

Yes, absolutely. Kenya-Tanzania combinations are very popular and highly recommended. A typical itinerary spans 10-14 days, combining the Masai Mara (Kenya) with the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater (Tanzania), and optionally Zanzibar for beach time. This allows you to experience diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and cultures across two incredible countries.

Our tailor-made safari packages include:

  • All accommodation at carefully selected lodges
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Transport in our 4x4 vehicles
  • Professional English-speaking guides
  • All national park fees and entrance fees
  • Airport transfers in Kenya/Tanzania

You arrange your own international flights to Kenya or Tanzania.

Travel Practicalities

Most nationalities require a visa for Kenya. An eVisa (electronic visa) is available online through Kenya's immigration portal and can be applied for before travel. The application process is straightforward and typically takes a few days. We recommend applying at least 2 weeks before departure. Check Kenya's official immigration website for your specific nationality requirements.

Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry to Kenya and Tanzania. We also recommend vaccinations for typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and tetanus. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for most safari regions. Consult your travel clinic 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized medical advice based on your health history and exact itinerary.

Yes, Kenya is safe for tourists, especially in established safari areas and national parks. Tourism is a major industry and security around tourist destinations is well-managed. We recommend standard travel precautions: avoid displaying valuables, use registered taxis, stay aware of your surroundings in cities, and follow your guide's advice. Safari areas are particularly safe and well-patrolled.

Colors: Pack neutral earth tones (greens, browns, tans) rather than bright colors.

Clothing: Bring layers for early morning and evening drives, and light clothing for daytime heat.

Essential items: High-SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, binoculars, camera and extra batteries, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, medications, and a light rain jacket for rainy season.

Two main options are available:

  • Light aircraft flight: Approximately 45 minutes from Wilson Airport. Fast and comfortable, ideal for most visitors.
  • Road transfer: 5-6 hours by 4x4 vehicle via the scenic Great Rift Valley. A beautiful drive with opportunities to see landscapes and wildlife en route.

Most visitors prefer the flight for comfort and time efficiency. We arrange both options depending on your preference and budget.

Your Safari Experience

Early morning game drive: 5:30-9:30 AM when animals are most active. Return for a full brunch.

Midday rest: Relaxation during the hottest hours. Perfect time for rest, lunch, and exploring the lodge.

Afternoon game drive: 4:00-7:00 PM. Includes 'sundowners' (drinks at a scenic spot as the sun sets). Return to lodge for dinner.

Most lodges offer optional bush walks and other activities during rest periods.

The Masai Mara is one of the best places in Africa to see the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhino). While sightings are never guaranteed in the wild, our experienced guides have excellent knowledge of animal behavior and movement patterns. Most visitors to the Mara do see at least 4-5 of the Big Five, with some lucky enough to see all five during their stay.

Yes, we specialize in family safaris. We partner with child-friendly lodges that offer family suites and proper facilities. Game drives can be shortened to suit young attention spans. We offer educational bush walks and activities designed to engage children with wildlife and nature. Children as young as 6 typically enjoy safari experiences tremendously.

We use modified 4x4 Land Cruisers specifically equipped for safari. All vehicles feature:

  • Pop-up roofs for optimal wildlife photography and viewing
  • Charging points for cameras and devices
  • Cool boxes for refreshments
  • Experienced drivers familiar with wildlife behavior

Vehicles are regularly maintained to ensure reliability and comfort in remote areas.

Yes. All Safari World Africa safaris are private by default. You are not grouped with strangers. Your safari vehicle is dedicated to your group, and your guide focuses entirely on your interests, pace, and preferences. This is one of our core principles: tailor-made means just for you.

Still Have Questions?

Get in touch with our safari experts. We're here to answer any questions and help you plan the perfect safari.

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