How to Plan a Kenya Safari: Your Ultimate 2026 Checklist
At Malee Safaris, we’ve spent years guiding travellers through Kenya’s breathtaking wilderness, from the legendary Masai Mara to the scenic plains of Amboseli. This 2026 safari planning checklist will help you create a journey that’s effortless, unforgettable, and perfectly tailored to your travel style. With so many options, luxury lodges, budget safaris, family adventures, and eco-conscious tours, it can feel overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s where this guide comes in.
Planning a Kenya safari is one of the most exciting adventures you can take, but it can also feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. From choosing the right parks and timing your visit to budgeting and packing, every detail counts.
Why Kenya Is the Best Destination for an African Safari
When people imagine an African safari, they often picture Kenya, and for good reason. Kenya is home to some of the world’s most spectacular wildlife and landscapes. The Great Migration in the Masai Mara, elephants against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro at Amboseli, and the vast red plains of Tsavo make it a destination of endless wonder.
Kenya also offers a perfect mix of wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and luxury comfort. You can watch lions hunt at dawn, visit Maasai villages in the afternoon, and relax in a safari lodge under the stars by evening.
Whether you’re a photographer, honeymooner, family, or first-time traveller, Kenya has a safari for you, and 2026 is shaping up to be one of the best years yet.
When Is the Best Time to Plan a Kenya Safari in 2026?
Knowing when to go is a key part of learning how to plan a Kenya safari.
The Dry Season (June – October)
This is the most popular time for safaris because of clear skies, short grass, and incredible wildlife sightings. It’s also when the Great Migration happens (July–October), as millions of wildebeest and zebras cross into the Masai Mara from Tanzania.
The Green Season (November – May)
This is perfect for photographers and bird lovers. The landscapes turn lush, and you’ll enjoy fewer crowds and more affordable rates. Calving season in February is a wonderful time to see baby animals and predator action.
Malee Safaris Tip: Book your 2026 safari early if you’re targeting the Migration season. Lodges fill up fast, especially in the Masai Mara and Amboseli.
How to Choose the Right Kenya Safari Package
When planning a safari in Kenya, your choice of safari package can make all the difference.
Private Safaris
For travellers who want exclusivity and flexibility, private safaris offer a personal vehicle, private guide, and a custom itinerary. Perfect for couples, families, and photographers.
Group Safaris
If you’re looking to meet other travellers and save on costs, group safaris are an excellent option. You’ll still visit top parks and enjoy guided experiences, just at a shared cost.
Safari Types by Budget
Luxury Safaris: High-end lodges, private charters, and personalised service.
Mid-Range Safaris: Comfortable lodges or tented camps with great amenities.
Budget Safaris: Simple accommodations and shared vehicles for great value.
Plan with Experts: At Malee Safaris, we craft tailor-made Kenya safari packages to suit your time, interests, and budget, whether you’re chasing the Migration or exploring hidden gems.
Top Safari Destinations to Include in Your Kenya Safari Plan
Kenya’s parks each offer something unique. Here’s where to go in 2026:
Masai Mara National Reserve
No safari in Kenya is complete without the Masai Mara. It’s home to the Big Five and the spectacular Great Migration. The golden plains, acacia trees, and big-cat sightings make it Africa’s most iconic safari destination.
Amboseli National Park
Known for its large herds of elephants and panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is a photographer’s dream.
Tsavo East & Tsavo West
Together, these parks form one of the largest protected areas in Kenya. Expect wild, untamed landscapes and fewer crowds, perfect for seasoned travelers.
Samburu National Reserve
A hidden gem in northern Kenya, Samburu offers unique wildlife species like the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and Somali ostrich, plus rich cultural interactions with the Samburu people.
How Much Does It Cost to Plan a Kenya Safari?
One of the most common questions we get is: “How much does a Kenya safari cost?”
While prices vary depending on your travel style, here’s a general idea:
| Safari Type | Cost (Per Person / Per Day) | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Safari | $200 – $350 | Shared vehicle, basic lodges or camps, meals |
| Mid-Range Safari | $350 – $600 | Comfortable lodges, private guide, park fees |
| Luxury Safari | $700 – $1,200+ | Luxury lodges, private flights, fine dining |
Malee Safaris Tip: Booking directly with a local operator like Malee Safaris ensures better rates, local expertise, and personalized service.
What to Pack When Planning a Kenya Safari
Packing right can make your safari more comfortable and enjoyable. Here’s your quick checklist:
Lightweight, neutral-colored clothes
Comfortable walking shoes
Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Binoculars and a camera
Power bank or extra batteries
Reusable water bottle
Passport, travel insurance, and copies of important documents
Pack light but smart. Most domestic flights within Kenya have strict luggage limits (15–20 kg).
Travel Tips from Malee Safaris Experts
Visa and Entry: Most nationalities can apply for Kenya’s eTA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) online before arrival.
Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccination is recommended; check requirements before travel.
Currency: Kenya Shilling (KES). Cards are accepted, but cash is handy for tips and local markets.
Cultural Etiquette: Always ask before taking photos of locals; greetings go a long way.
Sustainability: Choose lodges that support conservation and local communities, a core value of Malee Safaris.
Your safari can make a difference. Travelling responsibly helps protect Kenya’s wildlife and empowers local communities.
Start Planning Your Kenya Safari Today
Your 2026 adventure starts with one simple step: planning it right. Whether you dream of witnessing the Great Migration, exploring Amboseli’s elephants, or relaxing on Diani Beach after your safari, Malee Safaris makes it easy.
Our Kenya-based team handles every detail, from transport and park fees to lodge bookings and local experiences, so you can focus on the adventure.
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Frequently Asked Questions About How To Plan A Kenya Safari
1. What is the best way to plan a Kenya safari in 2026?
The best way to plan a Kenya safari is to start early, choose the right season, and book with a trusted local operator like Malee Safaris. Early planning ensures availability in top parks like the Masai Mara and Amboseli.
2. How much does it cost to plan a Kenya safari?
A Kenya safari costs between $200 and $1,200 per person per day, depending on whether you choose a budget, mid-range, or luxury safari package. Booking locally with Malee Safaris offers better value and expert guidance.
3. When is the best time to plan a Kenya safari in 2026?
The best time for a Kenya safari in 2026 is during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife viewing is excellent and the Great Migration reaches the Masai Mara.
4. What should I pack when planning a Kenya safari?
When planning a Kenya safari, pack light, neutral-colored clothes, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, binoculars, and a reusable water bottle. Most domestic flights have luggage limits of 15–20 kg.
5. Why plan your 2026 Kenya safari with Malee Safaris?
Malee Safaris offers tailor-made Kenya safari packages designed by local experts. We handle all logistics, lodges, park fees, and transport, so you enjoy a seamless and unforgettable safari experience.