Kenya · Things to do
5 things to do on safari in Kenya with kids
The five best things to do on a family safari in Kenya are watching elephants at Amboseli with Mount Kilimanjaro behind them, finding lions in the Masai Mara, spotting giraffes on the open plains, visiting a Maasai community and taking a game drive at sunset. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times, so most days include a long midday rest.
What to do, in order
- 1
Watch elephants at Amboseli
Amboseli National Park is famous for large elephant herds with Mount Kilimanjaro rising across the border in Tanzania. The mountain is clearest in the early morning and late evening, before cloud builds. Swampy areas in the middle of the park draw elephants, buffalo and birds, so even a short drive gives good viewing. The park is flat and dusty, with open sightlines that suit children who cannot keep still in a vehicle for long. Dry months bring the animals closer to water.
- 2
Find the lions in the Masai Mara
The Masai Mara is Kenya's best-known reserve and one of the most reliable places in Africa to see lions, along with cheetahs, hyenas, zebras and large herds. The wildebeest migration usually crosses the Mara River from roughly July to October. Game drives run at dawn and late afternoon, when predators are active, and each lasts several hours. Pick a lodge with an open or pop-top vehicle and a guide who is happy to stop for children. Short drives work better than full days for younger ones.
- 3
Spot giraffes on the savanna
Giraffes are easy to find across Kenya's savanna parks, often standing right beside the track and unbothered by vehicles. The Maasai giraffe is the species around the Mara and Amboseli. Nairobi National Park puts them against a city skyline, which makes it a good first-day outing after landing, and the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi lets children feed them by hand. Keep voices low and stay inside the vehicle. Animals that feel calm will stay close, which gives children the best view.
- 4
Visit a Maasai community
The Maasai have herded cattle in southern Kenya for centuries, and many communities near the parks welcome visitors. Choose a visit organised by the community itself or through your lodge, and ask beforehand how the money is shared. You will usually be shown traditional dancing, a boma, which is a ring of houses with a thorn fence, and handmade crafts. Treat it as a conversation rather than a performance. Ask before photographing people, and let children ask questions through the guide.
- 5
Chase the sunset in a jeep
A late afternoon drive is the best part of any safari day. The heat has eased, animals come out to feed and drink, and the light turns gold across the plains. Parks have set gate and closing times, so your guide will head back at dusk rather than drive in the dark. Pack a jacket, because the air cools fast. Bring binoculars for children, and a small snack to keep them calm. Many lodges serve a sundowner drink or juice at a viewpoint.
Plan it
- Best time
- July to October is the dry season and the migration in the Mara, with the best wildlife viewing and the highest prices. January to February is also dry and good. April and May are the long rains, with fewer visitors and lower rates but muddy roads.
- How long
- Five to seven days gives two or three nights each in the Masai Mara and Amboseli, with road or short flight transfers. A shorter trip works if you stay in a single reserve.
- Getting around
- Parks are reached by road or small flights from Nairobi, often with a guide and driver arranged through the lodge. Game drives use closed or pop-top safari vehicles and children sit with an adult.
Good to know
- Ask your doctor about malaria prevention and vaccinations well before you travel. Needs depend on region and the time of year.
- Check lodge age policies. Many camps set minimum ages for game drives or have family-specific options.
- Dress in neutral colours and bring sunhats, as the equatorial sun is strong. Dust is part of every drive.
Frequently asked
Is Kenya safe for a family safari? +
Yes, with a good operator. Safaris in the main parks are well established and guides know how to handle children. Follow the guide's instructions, stay inside the vehicle and check your government's current travel advice before booking.
What age can kids go on safari? +
It varies by lodge. Many allow children of any age but limit some activities, such as walking safaris, to older children. Ask about private vehicles, as young children can find shared drives tiring.
When is the best time for a safari in Kenya? +
July to October is the dry season and the time of the wildebeest migration, which is the peak. January and February are also good, and the rainy months of April and May are quieter and cheaper.
Do you need a visa to visit Kenya? +
Most visitors need an online travel authorisation, obtained before flying. Rules have changed in recent years, so check the official government site for the current process for your nationality.