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Call us14 Reasons to Choose Kenya for Your Safari Holiday
29th August 2025
Kenya is the birthplace of the safari and still one of the most rewarding destinations in the world for wildlife encounters. With sweeping savannahs, dramatic rift valleys, snow-capped mountains, and a golden coastline, the country offers more variety than many travellers expect. Add to that its warm hospitality, outstanding conservation work, and direct flights from the UK, and it’s clear why Kenya remains a top choice for both first-time safari-goers and seasoned adventurers.
Scroll down to reveal 14 reasons why a Kenya safari holiday should be on your list.
1. See the Big Five – and beyond
Kenya is one of the best places in Africa to spot the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. Game drives in the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Laikipia deliver unforgettable sightings, often within a single trip. But Kenya isn’t just about the Big Five – you can also track the unique “Samburu Five” (beisa oryx, reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk) or witness rare wild dogs.
2. Combine safari and beach
Few destinations make it as easy to pair a thrilling safari with time by the sea. After mornings in the bush, you could be relaxing on the white sands of Diani Beach or exploring the culture-rich island of Lamu by sunset. With short internal flights, a bush-and-beach holiday is seamless.
3. Activities beyond game drives
Kenya offers much more than classic 4×4 safaris. Try walking safaris with expert guides, camel treks with Samburu herders, horse riding on the plains, hot-air balloon flights at dawn, or snorkelling in the Indian Ocean. The choice is endless.
4. Exclusive conservancies for private safaris
Private conservancies bordering national parks offer low-impact tourism with far fewer vehicles, excellent guiding, and luxury lodges. These community-run areas also mean your visit directly supports local people and conservation.
5. Favourable weather year-round
Straddling the equator, Kenya enjoys a pleasantly warm climate most of the year. The wildlife is excellent in both dry and green seasons, so you can plan your holiday around your preferences – from lush landscapes after the rains to peak wildlife concentrations in the dry months.
6. The lakes of the Great Rift Valley
Kenya’s Great Rift Valley is home to dramatic landscapes and bird-rich lakes. Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru are havens for birdwatchers, while Lake Bogoria is famous for its flamingo flocks and hot springs.
7. World-class birding
With over 1,000 recorded species, Kenya is a birder’s paradise. From colourful bee-eaters and kingfishers to pelicans, ostriches, and migratory flocks, the diversity is staggering.
8. A warm welcome and safe travel
Kenya has long been considered one of East Africa’s most welcoming and traveller-friendly countries. Expect warm smiles, enthusiastic “Jambo!” greetings, and a genuine hospitality that makes every journey special.
9. Fascinating culture
Kenya is home to more than 40 ethnic groups, each with its own traditions, language, and heritage. Spending time with the Maasai or Samburu offers unique insight into their way of life, from beadwork and dance to pastoral traditions.
10. Simple visa process
For UK passport holders, Kenya’s e-visa system makes travel straightforward. Applications are done online in advance, and children under 16 can enter free of charge.
11. Easy flights from the UK
Nairobi is well-connected, with direct flights from London taking just under 9 hours. Kenya also serves as a gateway to East Africa, making it easy to combine with Tanzania, Zanzibar, or Rwanda.
12. The Great Migration in the Maasai Mara
Between July and October, the Maasai Mara becomes the stage for one of nature’s greatest shows: the Great Wildebeest Migration. Watching vast herds cross the Mara River – pursued by predators – is an unforgettable experience.
13. Rich history and heritage
Kenya isn’t only about wildlife. Explore archaeological sites at Olorgesailie, the medieval ruins of Gedi, or colonial-era landmarks in Nairobi. For history enthusiasts, the “cradle of mankind” is a fascinating addition to any trip.
14. Safaris that support conservation
Every lodge stay or park entry helps fund Kenya’s conservation efforts – from anti-poaching patrols to habitat protection. By travelling here, you’re directly supporting the preservation of wildlife and landscapes for future generations.
Plan Your Kenya Safari with Swift Travel
Whether you want to witness the Great Migration, combine safari with the coast, or explore Kenya’s remote conservancies, we’ll design a tailor-made journey built around you. With nearly 40 years of experience and trusted local partners, we’ll make sure your trip is seamless from start to finish.
Call 020 8502 8300 to start planning your Kenya safari holiday.
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