Updated 19/11/2024
Kenya is a land of breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. My journey through this incredible country took me from the bustling cities to serene lakes and open savannas. Here’s my 10-day travel itinerary covering Mombasa, Nairobi, Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha, complete with my own personal experiences and tips.
Day 1-4: Arrival in Mombasa
I started my adventure in Mombasa, a vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and historical sites. I flew from London-Nairobi, then Nairobi-Mombasa.
- Day 1: After arriving at Moi International Airport, I checked into Southern Palms Beach Resort at Diani Beach, just in time to check out the beachfront location which was perfect for unwinding after my flight.
- Day 2: I headed off on a boat trip for a morning of relaxation and adventure to the coral gardens in the Mombasa Marine Park via a glass bottom boat. Snorkelling in the clear waters was an unforgettable experience, I have never seen so many species of marine life, including octopus, barracuda and crocodile fish! The tour guide was great at finding the different species and explaining about them.
- Day 3: I relaxed by the pool which had a lovely swim up bar for the day, partaking in all the activities the hotel had to offer, a personal favourite was pool volleyball. In the evening, I enjoyed a delicious dinner at Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant, a unique dining spot set inside an ancient coral cave.
- Day 4: I spent time relaxing on the private beach and having a look around all the stalls on the beach. These were all handmade items including jewellery, towels, clothes, bowls and utensils, all unique and beautiful.
- Read more about Mombasa on my travel blog. Mombasa Marvels: A guide to a Kenyan Coastal Paradise – Holiday Tips
Day 5: Exploring Nairobi
Early morning I flew to Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling capital, where urban life meets wildlife.
- Day 5: I checked into the gorgeous Hilton hotel. I spent the morning at the Nairobi National Park, a unique wildlife reserve on the city’s edge. Seeing lions, rhinos and giraffes against the backdrop of the city skyline was amazing. I visited the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to see baby elephants and learn about conservation efforts then visited the giraffe centre to feed giraffes which was a bucket list moment for me! In the afternoon, I visited the Karen Blixen Museum, followed by a relaxing stroll through the beautiful gardens before heading back to the hotel for my next adventure!
Read more about Nairobi on my travel blog – Nairobi Adventures: A Memorable Journey to Kenya’s Vibrant Capital – Holiday Tips
Day 6-7: Safari in Maasai Mara
A trip to Kenya wouldn’t be complete without a safari, and Maasai Mara is the perfect place for an unforgettable wildlife experience. This was the highlight of my holiday!
- Day 6: I met up with the guide early morning in the hotel, also meeting other people that I would be spending my safari experience with, making lifelong friends! There were 6 people in a jeep, so it did not feel crowded. We started on our journey to the Masaai Mara, firstly stopping at the great rift valley viewpoint which was breathtaking! Once arriving, I checked in to Sentrim Mara Camp in the middle of the reserve. My first game drive that afternoon was thrilling, with sightings of elephants, lions and cheetahs. The evening game drive did not disappoint, witnessing a spectacular sunset.
- Day 7: I took a hot air balloon safari early morning. Floating above the savanna as the sun rose and the animals started to come to life was a magical experience and one I will never forget. After landing, we had a champagne breakfast in the bush, surrounded by wildlife. The rest of the day was dedicated to game drives. The highlight was witnessing the Great Migration, where thousands of wildebeests and zebras crossed the Mara River. It was a dramatic and awe-inspiring sight! On the evening before venturing on the last drive, I visited a Masaai Village to get a glimpse into their culture and how they live, this was an eye-opening experience.
Day 8: Discovering Lake Nakuru
From Maasai Mara, I travelled to Lake Nakuru, known for its stunning birdlife and rhino sanctuary.
- Day 8: The drive from Masaai Mara to Lake Nakuru was around a 5-hour drive but the route hosted plenty of beautiful scenery and regular stops. Once arriving, I did a game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park which revealed flocks of flamingos, pelicans and both black and white rhinos. The park’s scenery, with gorgeous forests and the shimmering lake, was truly picturesque.
- I checked into Sentrim Elementia Lodge on the evening, which offered comfortable accommodations with beautiful lake views, just in time to see the breathtaking sunset.
Day 9: Enjoying Lake Naivasha
Lake Naivasha, a serene freshwater lake, was my next destination.
- Day 9: A boat ride on the lake was a highlight, where I saw hippos up close and spotted numerous bird species, including fish eagles and kingfishers. I visited Crescent Island Game Park for a walking safari, getting close to zebras, giraffes and wildebeests, the only route here is by boat. I did the boat ride and the park in one which is the most convenient and cheapest option!
- I then headed back to Nairobi and stayed at the beautiful Sarova Panafric Nairobi Hotel, having a few hours to relax by the pool before heading to the famous Carnivore Restaurant for a taste of Kenya’s famous nyama choma (grilled meat) which was the perfect way to end my trip!
Day 10: Departure
I made my way to the airport ready to leave Kenya behind but taking the most incredible memories of my life with me!
Practical Tips for Your Trip
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Kenya is during the dry seasons, from June to October and January to February. The weather is pleasant, and wildlife viewing is optimal. I visited in October and the weather was perfect, and I got to witness the Great Migration, July-October being the best times to see it!
Health Precautions: Ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and take precautions against malaria. Use insect repellent and sleep under mosquito nets when advised to do so, especially in the reserves.
Currency: The local currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). Carry some cash for small purchases and tips, but credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants.
Local Etiquette: Kenyans are friendly and welcoming. A simple greeting like “Jambo” (hello in Swahili) is appreciated. Dress modestly, especially when visiting cultural sites and rural areas.
Safety: While Kenya is generally safe for tourists, stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night and keep your valuables secure. If you have booked trips, you will have a private guide to escort you to make you feel even safer!
My journey through Kenya was an adventure of a lifetime, filled with incredible experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. From the vibrant streets of Mombasa and Nairobi to the serene beauty of Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha, and the thrilling safaris in Maasai Mara, Kenya offers something for everyone. I hope this itinerary inspires you to embark on your own Kenyan adventure and discover the wonders of this incredible country!
