Kenya Luxury Safari Packages: Destinations, Things to Do, When to Visit & More

luxury Kenya safaris
There’s something for everyone when it comes to Kenya safari packages

If you are the kind of traveler who’s always thinking about your next adventure, 1. let us be friends, and 2. we have hundreds of Kenya luxury safari packages you can choose from.

And no, these are not your average luxury safari tours. They are packed with larger-than-life experiences that are specially curated to fit our clients’ varying needs. Need to see it to believe it? We’ve gotcha!

This article cuts through the vast plains of options to present you with an authentic glimpse into the heart of luxury safaris in Kenya—detailing the costs, exclusive activities, and the kind of splendor you can expect to encounter. We’ll guide you through selecting the perfect package that not only meets your desire for opulence but also ensures a deeply immersive connection with the wilderness.

Here’s Where to Reach Us to Plan Your African Safari

Call or WhatsApp us at +254-704-532-105 or send us an email at safarioffers@kenyasafariholidays.uk, safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com, or james@ajkenyasafaris.com

Here’s a List of Our Most Booked African Safari Tours Safaris

Executive Summary

  • Kenya luxury safaris offer a bespoke experience, with prices ranging from $600 to $2,000 per person per day, including personalized itineraries, exclusive accommodations, and a variety of activities catering to individual preferences such as private, group, and family-friendly adventures.
  • The best time to view wildlife in Kenya is during the dry seasons (June to October and December to March). This period provides optimal game viewing conditions and comfortable climates for travelers, with the added spectacle of the Great Migration from July to September.
  • Kenya luxury safaris emphasize eco-luxury and community engagement, allowing travelers to experience environmental consciousness and local culture. They also offer the chance to contribute to wildlife conservation and community projects.

Decoding Kenya Luxury Safari Packages

Luxury Kenya safaris cater to a diverse range of tastes and preferences, creating a personalized journey into the wild. As you traverse the expansive landscapes, you’ll revel in a safari experience that is as unique as you are.

Bespoke private safaris, exclusive group journeys, and family-friendly adventures are just a sample of the luxury safari packages available in Kenya. Each of these packages is meticulously crafted, offering customized itineraries, exclusive accommodations, and additional bespoke services tailored to your preferences. A luxury safari experience in Kenya typically costs between $600 to $2,000 per person, per day, which includes not just accommodations but an all-encompassing experience with various amenities and activities.

Whether you’re seeking a serene retreat in a luxury-tented camp or the thrill of a game drive through the plains of the Masai Mara, a luxury safari in East Africa, particularly in Kenya, promises an unforgettable African adventure.

Bespoke Private Safaris

A bespoke tour caters to discerning travelers seeking intimate and tailor-made safari experiences. These personalized itineraries are expertly crafted to suit your individual interests and preferences, resulting in a truly unique adventure. You could find yourself embarking on a walking safari through the wild landscapes of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, or perhaps enjoying a luxurious stay at the exclusive Serian Nkorombo Mobile Camp, a riverside mobile tented camp experience priced from US\$ 917 per person per night. With luxury safari tours like these, your journey will be unforgettable.

Exclusive Group Journeys

Exclusive group journeys, ideal for those seeking a shared exploration, deliver an intimate and personalized safari experience. These journeys typically limit the number of participants, ensuring that each traveler gets the most out of their safari experience. Whether you opt for a short 3-day tour or an extended 10-day adventure, these group safari packages cater to a range of budgets, offering various accommodation types from tented camps to lodges.

With scheduled start dates, these safaris offer the opportunity for solo travelers and smaller groups to join others in exploring Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes, all from the comfort of a safari vehicle ensuring each traveler has a window seat for optimal wildlife viewing.

Family Adventures in the Wild

Introducing the younger members of the family to the wonders of the African wilderness is easily achieved with family-friendly African safari experiences. With accommodations offering family-friendly services like adjoining rooms, exclusive-use villas, and kids’ clubs providing storytelling and babysitting services, there’s something for everyone. Families can engage in educational activities like visiting the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage to see baby elephants, nature walks to learn about animal tracks and small game, as well as participate in teen-oriented conservation programs. They can also treat themselves to walking safaris, game viewing, camel safaris, mountain biking, and spa treatments.

All-inclusive family safari holidays offered by companies like AJ Kenya Safaris include accommodations, meals, activities, and transportation, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience.

Iconic Destinations and Where to Stay

Kenya boasts a plethora of iconic luxury safari destinations, each uniquely blending wildlife, landscapes, and luxury accommodations. Masai Mara National Reserve, Samburu National Reserve, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Amboseli National Park, Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru National Park, Mount Kenya, and Nairobi National Park are some of the top national parks for luxury safaris. These national parks not only provide unparalleled wildlife encounters but also house some of Kenya’s most iconic luxury accommodations.

Some unique luxury accommodations in Kenya include:

  • Giraffe Manor, where you can share breakfast with a resident herd of Rothschild’s giraffes
  • Lewa Wilderness Lodge, known for its rich history dating back to 1924
  • Amboseli’s Kibo Safari Camp which nestles on the foothills of Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain
  • Loisaba Tented Camp, with its infinity-edge pool
  • Ol Malo Lodge in Laikipia, known for its stunning setting
  • Mara Ngenche Safari Camp, known for its stunning views of the Mara River

Saruni Samburu offers guests game viewing opportunities with spectacular views of the pristine wilderness, while Lentorre Lodge provides access to an untouched part of Africa and uninterrupted views of Mount Shompole and Ol Donyo Lengai. With such diverse options available, there is a luxury safari destination in Kenya to suit every taste and preference.

Masai Mara National Reserve

luxury Kenya safaris
The Mara is home to the Great Migration, the world’s largest animal migration

The Masai Mara National Reserve, also known as the Masai Mara Game Reserve, is a world-renowned safari destination, offering unrivaled wildlife encounters and a spectacular selection of luxury lodges and tented camps. From the Governors’ Camp, which provides a traditional tented camp experience with sweeping views of the vast Kenyan plains, to the Karen Blixen Camp, which offers a seamless blend of Kenyan tradition and the magic of a safari experience, there’s an accommodation to suit every taste.

For an unparalleled luxury experience, Angama Mara offers glass-fronted safari tents perched on the edge of the Oloololo Escarpment, providing panoramic views of the Mara below.

P.S. The Masai Mara Game Reserve also hosts the iconic Great Migration, a spectacular event that sees over 1.5 wildebeests migrate to and from Kenya’s Masai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park.

Amboseli National Park

Famed for its world-class wildlife and iconic elephant herds, the Amboseli National Park offers a striking image against the snow-capped backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. The park is also home to all the Big Five African animals (Cape Buffalo, elephant, lion, rhino, and leopard) as well as over 600 bird species.

And it gets better. With Amboseli comes a breathtaking slew of luxury accommodations like Tortilis Camp which offers the best views of glacier-topped Kilimanjaro and Amboseli Sopa Lodge which provides guests with amenities such as free WiFi, private parking, along with dining options including buffet and Full English/Irish breakfast.

Some of the activities you can do during your Kenyan safari here include; wildlife viewing, walking safaris, fly camping, bird watching, and outdoor dining.

Meru National Park

Wildlife enthusiasts will without a doubt love Meru National Park as it offers a dumbfounding array of wildlife, including; lions, elephants, leopards, cheetahs, and the endangered rhino. It is also home to spectacular scenery featuring 13 rivers, countless streams, woodlands, lush grasslands, and riverine habitats.

And her accommodation? Simply incredible! From Elsa’s Kopje, a luxury accommodation best suited for those seeking an intimate experience with nature to Ol Donyo Lodge, a luxury East African safari nestled in Chyulu Hills National Park, which is nestled between the Amboseli and Tsavo West National Park.

The Ultimate Safari Experience: Game Drives and Beyond

A luxury Kenya safari is not just about the destination but also the journey. During your safari, you’ll encounter a variety of experiences designed to immerse you in the untamed beauty of Kenya’s wilderness. From exhilarating game drives in customized pop-top 4 x 4 Land Cruiser Jeeps to unlimited game viewing opportunities, such as those on the Tsavo East overnight tour, you’ll have ample opportunities to witness the grandeur of Africa’s wildlife in its natural habitat.

Beyond the traditional game drives, luxury safaris in Kenya often include guided wilderness excursions in private conservancies, where you’ll be accompanied by armed rangers to ensure your safety during close encounters with wildlife. For those seeking to reduce their carbon footprint, eco-friendly initiatives promote bush walks and other low-impact activities, allowing you to intimately experience and learn about the local flora and fauna.

Group safaris are also a popular choice, tailored to maximize the experience of iconic wildlife events such as the Great Migration in the Masai Mara. With expert guidance, you’ll have the opportunity to witness this natural spectacle, a sight that remains engraved in the memories of safari goers for a lifetime.

Guided Bush Walks and Horseback Safaris

For those seeking to experience the Kenyan wilderness up close, guided walking and horse safaris offer an exhilarating alternative to traditional game drives. Guided bush walks allow you to track animals by footprints, learn about local wildlife, and explore the wilderness more intimately.

On the other hand, horse safaris offer a thrilling way to explore the Masai Mara and Laikipia, allowing close encounters with wildlife while ensuring your safety with professional guides.

Airborne Adventures

For a unique perspective on Kenya’s diverse wildlife and landscapes, consider embarking on an airborne adventure. Hot-air balloon flights in the Masai Mara provide an exclusive opportunity to view the region’s wildlife from an aerial perspective, traversing riverine forests, savannahs, and rivers.

Launching at sunrise, these hot-air balloon safaris treat passengers to a stunning display lush grasslands and woodlands while offering a chance to witness the vast array of plains wildlife from above, including during the Great Migration from July to October.

Water-Based Wildlife Watching

Luxury safaris in Kenya offer a range of water-based wildlife-watching activities, including:

  • Boat safaris
  • Fishing excursions
  • Snorkeling
  • Dolphin viewing
  • Sailing
  • Kayak and snorkel excursions as part of wellness retreats

These activities provide a refreshing way to connect with nature.

Seasonal Splendor: When to Visit Kenya

Seasonal variations that can impact your experience should be a key consideration when planning your luxury Kenya safari. Kenya experiences two dry seasons, from June to October and from December to March, which offer the best game viewing conditions as animals are drawn to water sources and vegetation is sparse. These periods are also when you can witness some of the most iconic sightings of the Great Migration in the Masai Mara, particularly from July to September.

However, if you’re looking to maximize value, planning a safari during the shoulder seasons can result in lighter crowds and reduced rates, without compromising the experience. Other considerations when booking your safari should include wildlife movements such as the Great Migration, and the availability and exclusivity of safari camps.

Dry Season Delights

Kenya luxury safari packages
wildlife viewing is at its optimal best during the dry season

Kenya’s dry seasons provide not only excellent game viewing conditions but also the most comfortable climate for travelers. With temperatures averaging around 28 degrees Celsius during these months, the warm to hot climate is perfect for game drives and outdoor activities.

During these dry months, days are characteristically sunny with clear skies, setting the stage for uninterrupted game drives and outdoor activities.

P.S. Peak season falls within the dry season so expect a spike in park entrance fees and flight and accommodation costs.

Wet Season Wonders

Despite presenting some challenges, Kenya’s wet seasons also offer unique opportunities. Traveling during the wet season can lead to significant cost savings with low season rates and special deals. Plus, the rains bring a transformation to Kenya’s landscape, offering a stunning backdrop of lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and dramatic skies for photographers.

It’s also an exceptional time for witnessing the circle of life, with an abundance of newborn animals and increased predatory behaviors to observe.

Conservation and Community: Eco-Luxury Safaris

Eco-luxury safaris have seen a rise in popularity as travelers become increasingly conscious of their impact on the environment and local communities. These eco-luxury safaris focus on sustainable tourism practices, community engagement, and wildlife conservation efforts. For example, Basecamp Masai Mara provides an eco-luxury safari experience, with a focus on sustainable eco-tourism.

Moreover, Kenya’s luxury safaris facilitate cultural interactions, especially in regions like Samburu, Laikipia, and the Maasai Mara. This not only enriches the safari experience but also promotes community engagement and support.

Community Engagement

luxury Kenya safari
Luxury safaris in Kenya foster a connection between tourists and local communities

Luxury safaris in Kenya provide an avenue for meaningful engagement with local communities. From Maasai villages, where guests can engage with the local culture through interaction in daily life and traditional beadwork, to community projects such as the Olpalagilagi Primary School and local medical clinics that receive support through camp initiatives. These encounters foster a connection between visitors and the host community and contribute to developmental efforts.

Wildlife Conservation Efforts

A luxury safari in Kenya not only offers an unforgettable wildlife experience but also an opportunity to contribute to wildlife conservation. From rhino tracking on foot at Saruni Rhino Sanctuary in Sera Conservancy to supporting projects like the Olderikesi Wildlife Conservancy through Cottar’s Wildlife Conservation Trust, these initiatives allow guests to play a part in preserving the very wildlife they’ve come to admire.

Planning and Preparation: Tips for a Hassle-Free Journey

Being well-prepared is crucial before embarking on your luxury Kenya safari. This includes understanding the visa requirements, getting the necessary vaccinations, and knowing what to pack. U.S. and Canadian passport holders, for instance, require an Electronic Tourist Visa (eVisa) to enter Kenya. Travelers to Kenya must also have a Yellow Fever vaccine and provide proof upon entry if traveling from a country with a risk of Yellow Fever.

Beyond these requirements, it’s also advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical treatment and emergency air evacuation. Most luxury Kenya safari packages often include medical coverage such as AMREF Flying Doctors service for emergency medical needs.

What to Pack

safari Kenya packages
Neutral colors are the way to go when dressing for a safari

When packing for your luxury Kenya safari, a sagari goer should keep in mind the climate and planned activities. Here are some essential items to pack:

  • Safari attire in neutral colors such as khaki and green, as these colors help you blend into the surroundings
  • Practical items like safari trousers, shorts, long and short sleeve shirts
  • Comfortable footwear for walking and nighttime use

Don’t forget to protect your skin with sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher and lip balm, and cover up during the peak sun intensity hours between 11am and 3pm.

Health and Safety

Being prepared is fundamental when it comes to health and safety for your luxury safari in Kenya. Travelers should be up to date on all routine vaccines and must carry a health card with vaccination certificates.

Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for those traveling to areas in Kenya below 8,200 feet during the rainy months of March to May and November to December. With these precautions in place, you can embark on your adventure with peace of mind.

Personalized Add-Ons for Your Kenya Luxury Safari

Consider enhancing your luxury Kenya safari’s memorability by adding personalized options to your itinerary. These add-ons can range from private air charter solutions, offering convenience and flexibility, to coastal relaxation, providing an idyllic escape after an adventurous safari.

Options for your safari experience include:

  • Scenic Air Safaris, which curate tailor-made flying safaris to off-the-beaten-track destinations, combining luxury with the convenience of flying privately
  • Manda Bay, a serene beach resort on a protected sandy stretch of the Indian Ocean, perfect for unwinding
  • Lamu and Diani Beach, picturesque islands known for their peaceful relaxation

Relaxation and Wellness

During your luxury safari in Kenya, consider relaxation and wellness offerings as another personalized add-on. Many luxury safari lodges feature on-site spas offering services like massages and beauty treatments for relaxation after game drives.

Additionally, wellness retreats often provide daily yoga classes and guided meditation sessions, giving you the opportunity to reconnect with yourself amidst the stunning landscapes of Kenya.

Coastal Escapes

Consider a coastal escape for a change of scenery after your safari. Kenya’s coastal resorts, such as those in Diani or by the Lamu archipelago, offer luxury amenities including private plunge pools, direct beachfront access, and tailored services for guests.

With the optimal period for a Kenyan bush and beach vacation being from October to April, the dry season, you can seamlessly transition from a thrilling safari to a tranquil beach retreat.

Summary

A luxury safari in Kenya is more than just a vacation – it’s an immersive experience that connects you with the raw beauty of Africa’s landscapes and wildlife. From the bespoke private safaris to the iconic destinations, every aspect of your journey is thoughtfully curated to provide an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re exploring the vast plains of the Masai Mara, witnessing the Great Migration, or relaxing at a coastal resort, a luxury safari in Kenya promises a journey that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a 10 day safari in Kenya?

The cost of a 10-day safari in Kenya can vary depending on the specific tour package and the level of luxury and exclusivity. It’s best to research different tour operators to find a price that suits your budget.

Is a luxury safari worth it?

Yes, a luxury safari is worth it because it provides access to top-notch guides who can enhance the experience by taking you to exclusive locations and ensuring memorable wildlife sightings.

Can I engage with local communities during my safari?

Yes, it is possible to engage with local communities during your safari in Kenya, particularly in regions such as Samburu, Laikipia, and the Maasai Mara, offering both enrichment to the safari experience and support to the communities.

Are there any health and safety considerations I should be aware of?

Yes, it’s important to be up to date on routine vaccines and carry a health card with vaccination certificates. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for travel to certain areas in Kenya below 8,200 feet during specific rainy months.

Can I participate in wildlife conservation efforts during my safari?

Yes, you can participate in wildlife conservation efforts during your safari through various initiatives offered by luxury safaris in Kenya such as rhino tracking and supporting wildlife conservancy projects.