Your first safari is a big trip, and it comes with a lot of questions. Here are the answers we give first-time visitors most often.

How long should my first safari be?

Three days is the minimum we'd suggest. The Maasai Mara is a five to six-hour drive from Nairobi, so a two-day trip spends much of its time on the road. With five to seven days you can combine two or three places, for example the Mara with Lake Nakuru, or Amboseli with Lake Naivasha, without rushing. See our sample 3, 5 and 7-day itineraries.

When should I go?

Kenya works all year. The dry seasons (roughly June to October, and January to February) make animals easier to find. The wildebeest migration is usually in the Mara from about July to October. The green season in April and May is quieter and cheaper, with afternoon rain. Our best time to visit guide has the details park by park.

What is a day on safari like?

  • Early start. Morning game drives usually leave around 6:00 to 6:30am, when animals are most active.
  • Back for brunch or lunch, then a rest in the heat of the day.
  • Afternoon game drive from about 4pm until sunset.
  • Dinner at camp, often around a fire, and early to bed.

Some days you'll take a picnic and stay out all day. Your guide adapts to the animals and to you.

Will I see the Big Five?

Lions, elephants and buffalo are seen on most Mara trips. Leopards are shy, and rhinos are rare in the Mara but regularly seen in Lake Nakuru. Wildlife is never guaranteed, which is part of the magic, but a good guide improves your chances a lot.

What should I pack?

Layers in neutral colours, a warm fleece for early mornings, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent and binoculars. Use a soft bag, and leave plastic bags at home: Kenya has banned them. Here's our full packing list.

What about visas and health?

Most visitors need an electronic travel authorisation (eTA) before they fly, from the official site etakenya.go.ke. See a travel clinic about vaccinations and malaria tablets four to six weeks before you go. Our visa and health FAQs cover the essentials.

How much does it cost?

It depends mostly on the season, where you sleep and how many of you share the vehicle. Our safari costs guide explains what affects the price and what's included.

Ready to plan?

Browse our tours and safaris, or tell us your dates and budget and we'll suggest a first safari that suits you.