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Travel Guide for
Kenya

Kenya

Tropical along coast, arid inland, temperate highlands

Introduction

Kenya, located in East Africa along the equator, is famous for its striking savannahs, vibrant cities like Nairobi, and the beautiful Indian Ocean coast. With a rich history rooted in ancient trade, colonial encounters, and colorful tribal cultures, Kenya effortlessly blends tradition and modernity.

From December 26 to 31, Kenya enjoys warm, sunny weather—ideal for luxury safaris in the Maasai Mara or private beach villas in Diani. High-end travelers can enjoy exclusive game drives, champagne breakfasts with friends, and chic nightlife in Nairobi. Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and welcoming culture make it the ultimate destination for a sophisticated adventure with friends.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleTravelling with friends

Dates26-31 December 2025

BudgetHigh budget

AccommodationHomestay

Interests and Activities:

family activitiesnightlife and entertainmentoutdoor adventures

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Picture of Kenya

Key Facts

Location

East Africa

Currency

Kenyan Shilling (KES)

Religion

Christianity (dominant), Islam

Population

54,370,000

Language

Swahili, English, local languages

Electricity

240V, 50Hz, Type G plugs

Time zone

UTCEAT (UTC+3)

Country code

+254

Internet access

Broadband, 3G/4G, high urban, moderate rural

Climate

Tropical along coast, arid inland, temperate highlands

See More Kenya Facts

Language:

Swahili

  • hello

    hujambo (hoo-jahm-boh)
  • goodbye

    kwa heri (kwah heh-ree)
  • yes

    ndiyo (n-dee-yoh)
  • no

    hapana (hah-pah-nah)
  • how much

    hii ni bei gani? (hee nee bay gah-nee)
  • please

    tafadhali (tah-fah-dhah-lee)
  • thank you

    asante (ah-sahn-teh)
  • excuse me

    samahani (sah-mah-hah-nee)

Map

Logistics

The easiest and most comfortable way to travel to Kenya is by air, with Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport serving as the main hub. Luxury airlines like Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Kenya Airways operate direct flights from major global cities. For high-budget travelers with friends, private jet charters and business class upgrades ensure extra comfort.

Train and bus routes connect Kenya with neighboring countries, but these options are slower and less comfortable than flights. Private car transfers or chauffeured vehicles offer a high-end overland alternative. Weather from December 26 to 31 is generally warm and dry, ideal for travel, but make sure to book accommodations and transport well in advance due to the holiday season’s high demand.

Weather

Kenya enjoys a mostly tropical climate, with coastal regions warm and humid, central highlands cooler, and northern areas hot and dry. The country has two rainy seasons: March to May (long rains) and October to December (short rains). Dry periods usually fall between January–February and June–September, offering great weather for wildlife safaris and outdoor adventures.

From December 26 to December 31, Kenya is typically transitioning into the dry season, especially in popular safari regions like the Maasai Mara and Amboseli. You can expect warm days, cooler nights, and minimal rainfall—perfect conditions for family activities, exploring nightlife in Nairobi, and outdoor adventures. Extreme weather is rare during this period, making it a pleasant time to visit.

Food & Drink

Kenya’s cuisine blends local favorites like nyama choma (barbecued meat), ugali (maize porridge), and sukuma wiki (collard greens), with coastal Swahili influences such as biryani and fresh seafood. Popular drinks include Kenyan coffee, chai, and Tusker beer. For fine dining, try Nairobi’s Talisman, About Thyme, or the renowned Carnivore Restaurant for a meat feast.

Nairobi and Mombasa offer excellent high-end cafes and rooftop bars—check out Inti for Peruvian-Japanese fusion, or Sky Lounge for creative cocktails. Expect to tip about 10%, as service charges may not always be included. Many restaurants easily accommodate dietary preferences, but always ask about ingredients since Kenyan cuisine often features wheat, dairy, and meat.

Kenyan food is best enjoyed in groups, and making reservations is wise, especially during holidays and safari seasons. Dress codes in upscale venues may be slightly formal, and do try local seasonal fruits like mango and passionfruit when in Kenya.

A picture of Ugali

Ugali

Ugali is a staple food in Kenya, made from maize flour cooked with water to a thick porridge-like...

A picture of Nyama Choma

Nyama Choma

Nyama Choma is a popular Kenyan dish of grilled meat, often served with a side of tomato and...

A picture of Sukuma Wiki

Sukuma Wiki

Sukuma Wiki, which means 'stretch the week,' is a Kenyan stir-fry dish made from collard greens, often cooked...

A picture of Pilau

Pilau

Pilau is a fragrant, seasoned rice dish cooked with a mix of spices, including cumin, cardamom, and cinnamon,...

A picture of Maharagwe

Maharagwe

Maharagwe is a traditional Kenyan dish of stewed kidney beans cooked in coconut milk, tomato, and spices. It...

Accommodation

For a high-budget, friends’ getaway in Kenya, indulge in luxury homestays and upscale hotels in Nairobi’s Westlands or Karen neighborhoods—both vibrant with restaurants and nightlife. The Maasai Mara offers elegant safari lodges and exclusive homestays with personalized service, while Diani Beach on the coast features premium beachfront villas.

For property search and comparisons, Hotels.com is highly recommended for its vast selection, verified reviews, and secure bookings. During December 26–31, high demand means rates soar and minimum stay requirements might apply, so book early. For a more local experience, private homestays or serviced apartments can offer spacious living and customized amenities for groups.

Itinerary

Start your adventure in Nairobi, Kenya’s vibrant capital, getting acquainted with its dynamic urban life and preparing for the memorable journey ahead with your friends.

Safari Adventure at Nairobi National Park

Kick off your Kenyan journey with an unforgettable morning game drive at Nairobi National Park. Spot lions, rhinos, and giraffes roaming with the city skyline in the background. A must-visit for nature lovers, and just a short drive from downtown Nairobi!

Lunch and Wildlife Encounters at Giraffe Centre

Enjoy lunch with friends at the Giraffe Centre, where you’ll have the rare chance to feed endangered Rothschild’s giraffes and learn about local conservation efforts. Fantastic for group photo opportunities and close wildlife interactions.

Sunset Cocktails at The Alchemist

Experience Nairobi’s hip nightlife with sundowner cocktails at The Alchemist. This trendy open-air venue offers unique food stalls, live music, and a buzzing social scene—perfect for starting your holiday with vibrant urban energy.

Safari In Nairobi Kenya National Park Half day Tour

Safari In Nairobi Kenya National Park Half day Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

When your in Nairobi and you have 3 to 4 Hours. that is enough of a great safari Experience 7Km away from the city of Nairobi, No need of accommodation or long drives. Giving you 4 Hours of Safari. Remarkable view of lions, endangered black rhino, cheetahs, hyenas, buffaloes, giraffes and basically you have chance to see 4 of the Big 5 (expect the elephant) and diverse bird life with over 400 species recorded.

4.9 (76 reviews)

From $85 USD

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Experiences

Volunteer Teaching in Kenya
teaching

Volunteer Teaching in Kenya

Minimum 1 week

Kenya

$430/week

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Environment & Climate Change in Kenya
volunteering

Environment & Climate Change in Kenya

Minimum 1 week

Kenya

$495/week

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Women Empowerment in Kenya
volunteering

Women Empowerment in Kenya

Minimum 1 week

Kenya

$430/week

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Healthcare Experience in Kenya
volunteering

Healthcare Experience in Kenya

Minimum 1 week

Kenya

$495/week

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Childcare Volunteer Experience in Kenya
teaching

Childcare Volunteer Experience in Kenya

Minimum 1 week

Kenya

$430/week

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Volunteer Construction in Kenya
volunteering

Volunteer Construction in Kenya

Minimum 1 week

Kenya

$495/week

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Attractions

5.0 (10 reviews)
7-Days Wildlife and Outdoor activities in kenya

7-Days Wildlife and Outdoor activities in kenya

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This tour starts in Nairobi and visits various attractions, including Amboseli National Park, Home to the biggest African elephants, and Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain peak. In addition, you will visit Lake Naivasha, the highest lake within the Great Rift Valley, and the Masai Mara, the jewel of Africa's wildlife conservation. The tour also takes you to Lake Nakuru, located in west-central Kenya, known for hosting the endangered Rothschild Giraffe, and both White and black rhinos.

From $3806 USD

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5.0 (3 reviews)
Kenya safari

Kenya safari

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Be it your first time in Kenya or 7th time, this Kenya safari tour is one of a kind. The Kenya safari features two rift valley lakes and the most renowned national reserve in Africa if not the entire world, Masai Mara. During your safari in Kenya, you will experience boat rides, walking safari, and cycling safari with unlimited game drives in the famous Masai Mara National Reserve. Wildlife is one of the most exciting activities but still, there is more! Hot air balloon safari, walking safari, cultural tour.. the list is endless. As you plan for the Kenya safari, brace yourself for fun and another phase of memory creation. Karibu.

From $2700 USD

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5.0 (10 reviews)
6 Days Kenya Safari

6 Days Kenya Safari

INSTANT

Amboseli lies immediately north-west of Mount Kilimanjaro, on the border with Tanzania. The Park covers 392 square km, and forms part of the much larger 3,000 square km Amboseli ecosystem. Large concentrations of wildlife occur here in the dry season, making Amboseli a popular tourist destination. It is surrounded by six communally owned group ranches. Lake Nakuru provides the visitor with one of Kenya’s best known images. Thousands of flamingo, joined into a massive flock, fringe the shores of this soda lake. A pulsing pink swathe of life that carpets the water, the flamingo are a breathtaking sight. The Masai Mara is regarded as the jewel of Kenya’s wildlife viewing areas. The annual wildebeest’s migration alone involves over 1.5 million animals arriving in July and departing in November.

From $2697 USD

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4.0 (51 reviews)
Safari Kenya with expired

Safari Kenya with expired

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

I accompany you on an adventurous Safari aboard a 4x4 Jeep in search of the most majestic animals of the Savannah.

From $430 USD

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4.9 (7 reviews)
9- Days Classic Kenya Family Safari

9- Days Classic Kenya Family Safari

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

An All-in Kenya Wildlife safari that winds through the top national parks at a relaxing pace and takes you to luxury accommodation for that well-deserved family vacation. This trip will take you in a once in a lifetime game-viewing experience to see the famous Masai Mara Reserve, Lakes Naivasha and Nakuru to see flamingoes & Rhino sanctuary. A visit to Tsavo for its scenic hills and valleys is also included as well as to Amboseli, situated at the shadows of Mount Kilimanjaro.

From $4450 USD

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5.0 (3 reviews)
Kenya 5 Nights Tour

Kenya 5 Nights Tour

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

From the moment that you contact us we create a bespoke experince and itinerary tailored to suit indiviual traveller needs. We cater for luxury and budget travellers and we focus on creating adventurous and fun tours so that we can create lifelong memories in the minds of our clientel. We are always having repeat customers, even after over 15 years from their visit. We possess knowledge and expertise that’s worth paying for and that we truly want the best for our clients and their businesses. The most important point is that we are always evolving the structures and activities included within our itineraries to our customers requirements and acting upon their feedback to improve ourselves.

From $2986 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Day Tour To Mt. Kenya

Day Tour To Mt. Kenya

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The descent by the Sirimon route takes one through some beautiful forest tracks and completes the traverse of the mountain.

From $310 USD

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3.9 (11 reviews)
Kenya Volunteering Safari

Kenya Volunteering Safari

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Go Volunteer Africa allows you to give back to communities in Kenya while exploring the amazing diversity and rich cultural history of this stunningly beautiful country in Africa. Whether you are interested in teaching volunteer work, childcare volunteer work, construction volunteer work, healthcare volunteer work or sports coaching volunteer work or just interested in touring, surfing and safari, Go Volunteer Africa has something in Kenya that is suitable for you.

From $1250 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Cream Of Kenya Safari

Cream Of Kenya Safari

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

A fantastic safari with a combination of Kenya’s best known National Parks, with diverse wildlife, birds species, natural attractions and variety of ecosystem. Lake Nakuru, home of the greatest bird spectacle in the world, over a million pink flamingo wading in the alkaline waters, spot endangered black and white rhino. Maasai Mara is Kenya’s arguably the most famous reserve, search for the BIG 5. Mara host the yearly of over 2 million wildebeest and zebra on their annual migration season (July to October), from Serengeti in Tanzania to Maasai Mara in Kenya, coupled with ever watchful predatory cats in the midst, spot diverse array of wildlife. Samburu National Park boast unique resident species like the Reticulated Giraffe, at Ol-Pejeta Conservancy, feed Baraka, the blind rhino, see Chimpanzee behind the scene, at Amboseli see Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, huge African elephants herds, and other plenty plain game to be spotted.

From $5300 USD

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4.4 (7 reviews)
Hiking Mt Kenya

Hiking Mt Kenya

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Join us for guided climbs of the trekking peak Point Lenana on Mount Kenya using a variety of routes. Expect quite a lot of wildlife and lots of secluded trails with bizarre flora and fauna (including the rock hyrax), and the classic snow covered technical peaks of Batian and Nelion as the perfect back drop.

From $2309 USD

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