Nowhere else on earth can you find such an impressive combination of incredible game reserves and wildlife sanctuaries, golden beaches and bustling cities than in Kenya on holiday. With 48 national parks plus nine marine national parks and reserves that are home to a multitude of fish and breathtaking coral reefs, Kenya offers every type of holiday imaginable.
Stretching from Lamu to Mombasa, the coastline offers stunning beaches fringing the turquoise Indian ocean, archaeological and historical treasures and opulent holiday resorts. The Great Rift Valley is home to eight stunning lakes and some of Africa’s most magnificent birdlife, including the pink flamingoes at Lake Nakuru. The lush Central Highlands spread like a green mantle over three mountain ranges – Mount Kenya, the Aberdares and Mau. And the coral reefs along the entire length of Mombasa’s 480km coastline entice visitors to explore a spectacular underwater world.
Why holiday in Kenya
- It is one of the most magnificent wildlife destinations in the world – game viewing on a Kenyan safari is legendary.
- You can experience the great wildebeest migration in one of Kenya’s most incredible tourist attractions, the Masai Mara.
- It’s home to numerous exquisite beaches where you can soak up the sun, explore Malindi, a seaside town by the Indian Ocean.
- Diving and snorkelling along Mombasa’s coastline are superb.
- Birdwatching in the Great Rift Lakes area is unsurpassed.
- On a safari holiday, you have many opportunities to see the Big 5 – elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion and leopard.
- Some of the archaeological relics around the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lake Turkana are 3 million years old.
- Kenyan people are warm, friendly and welcoming towards visitors to their beautiful country.
What is the best time of year to visit Kenya?
Kenya has both a dry and a wet season. It is recommended to go visit Kenya in the dry season which runs from July to October. This also coincides with the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra. It's very possible to also travel in the wet season, you'll find that parks will be less crowded and the vegetation will be a feast for the eyes. Expect average temperatures around 25 degrees Celsius maximum and 10 degrees Celsius in the dry season.
Whether you go on safari in Kenya or spend your time basking on a long stretch of white beach with on a Malindi holiday package, or combine the best of both worlds, you're in for a treat. Thompsons Holidays will create a tailor-made holiday package to Kenya that will suit you.
Kenya offers an incredible diversity of wildlife, breathtaking scenery, a vibrant mix of cultures and some superb beach resorts. This magnificent country is home to numerous national parks where wildlife reigns supreme, plus marine national parks that are home to breathtaking coral reefs.
Safari holidays aside, there’s also the exquisite Kenya coastline, home to beautiful white-sand beaches fringed by the azure sea, luxurious beach resorts and some impressive archaeological treasures. Among the many places to visit in Kenya, Mombasa itself is home to a lovely Old Town with a historic harbour. And stretching on either side along the coast are enticing beach resorts nestled on long stretches of white sandy beaches. Malindi, just 115km north of Mombasa, is one of the most popular seaside resort towns on the East African coastline, with superb beaches and protected reefs offering excellent diving. It’s also a paradise for game fishing. Wherever you are on the coast, the water sports are varied and fun, including kite-surfing and surfing.
Things to do and tourist attractions in Kenya
- Have breakfast with a giraffe at Giraffe Manor in Nairobi.
- Climb magnificent Mount Kenya, spotting elephant, buffalo, black rhino and other wildlife en route.
- Meet the fascinating, friendly Maasai people who live in the Masai Mara.
- Sail the Mombasa coastline in a traditional dhow.
- View magnificent pink flamingos at Lake Nakuru.
- Explore Mombasa’s Old Town, founded in the 14th Century.
- Discover Lamu, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the oldest Swahili town in the world.
- Marvel at the elephants in Amboseli National Park.
- Pick up stunning traditional souvenirs in Nairobi.
Whether you’re going on safari or staying at one of the glorious beach resorts along the sunny Mombasa coastline, a holiday in Kenya is one you will never forget. Thompsons Holidays can help you make memories in this captivating country with holiday packages ranging from luxury to cheap Kenya packages. Contact us for more details.
When is the best time to visit?Â
- Kenya is a year-round destination.
- Temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C.
- The best time to visit is from July to February.
- To witness the wildebeest migration, travel to Kenya between June and September.
Getting there
- There are regular flights from South Africa to Kenya.
- Flight duration from Johannesburg to Nairobi is 4 hours, 5 minutes. You will fly on from there to your destination.
Do I need a visa? Â
- South African passport holders do not require a visa to enter Kenya.
What time is it? Â
- Kenya is 1 hour ahead of South Africa.
Money matters Â
- The official currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KSh).
- US dollars are accepted in many resorts and for some sightseeing.
- You can use an ATM to withdraw Kenyan Shillings at the airport or in the cities.
- Tipping is appreciated in Kenya, as people earn very little. Some restaurants do add a service charge. If they don’t, 10% tip is advisable.
Language & phrases Â
- Swahili is the official language in Kenya.
- English is widely spoken.
Culture & religionÂ
- The predominant religion in Kenya is Christianity.
Health information Â
- It is not recommended to drink tap water in Kenya. Bottled water is readily available.
- Yellow fever vaccinations are required to enter Kenya. Check with your travel clinic about other recommended vaccinations before you go.
- Lightweight clothing with warm layers.
- Pack a light rain jacket.
- Beachwear if you're heading to the coast.
- If going on safari, have a warm top on hand for those early morning game drives.
- Comfortable walking shoes, sandals, flip flops.
- Sunscreen, lip balm, hat and sunglasses for the beach.
- Mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.
- Hand sanitiser and insect repellent.
- Camera.
- Travel adaptor.
- Transport within Kenya is by light plane to the lodges. There are also cars, buses and taxis.
- Wherever possible, buy local food and souvenirs and support local artisans.
- Please note that plastic is banned in Kenya.
- Respect each other's cultures and customs.
- Be safety conscious: don’t display cash or valuables. Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.
- Keep your belongings safe – use the hotel safe for passports and valuables.
- Contact the Thompsons Holidays 24-hour care line to assist.