Family Safari Holidays in Kenya

Kenya boasts an astounding array of wildlife across multiple ecosystems, including the Big Five: lion, rhino, leopard, elephant, and buffalo. In Kenya’s northern reaches, keep an eye out for the Northern Five (also known as the ‘Special Five’ in Samburu National Reserve). These species are unique to the area and comprise beisa oryx, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, Grevy’s zebra, and gerenuk. Farther south, the Maasai Mara is renowned for the annual Great Migration and its incredible big cat encounters, but there’s also plenty to see around Laikipia, Amboseli, Samburu National Reserve, and the spectacular Great Rift Valley lakes.

The Great Migration is one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on Earth. During the most dramatic point in the migration, thousands of wildebeest thunder across the Mara river from northern Tanzania into Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve, which makes for epic wildlife viewing. It occurs between July and October each year, which coincides with the summer holidays. Although busy, this tends to be a popular time among families with school-age children.

Adventure-fuelled activities abound in the Laikipia highlands, where horse riding, fly-fishing, sleep-outs, quad-biking, and bush walks prevail. It’s even possible to go camel trekking here! Private ranches cater perfectly for multi-generational travel and families seeking flexible timings and schedule-free luxury safari experiences.

Kenya is a great destination for budding birdwatchers. The Rift Valley lakes are easy to access from Nairobi and offer boating, nature walks, and exquisite bird watching, not least during months when millions of lesser flamingos flock to the alkaline waters of Lake Bogoria. Kenya’s national reserves are amazing for ornithologists as there’s so much diversity – the Maasai Mara alone has almost five hundred different bird species!

Last but not least, treat the family to some well-deserved post-safari downtime at one of the gorgeous beaches on the Kenyan coast, such as Diani, Watamu, and the fascinating ancient Swahili settlement of Lamu. Featuring endless stretches of white sandy beach, warm hospitality, and plenty of water activities, the Swahili coast is a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy some quality family time.

In terms of wildlife density, the Maasai Mara is in a league of its own. Between July and October, travellers flock to its grassy plains for sightings of the Great Migration when thousands of wildebeest make their treacherous journey in search of greener pastures. However, Maasai Mara wildlife encounters are truly incredible all year round, with huge populations of big cats, hyena, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, and various antelope species, to name a few.

Those seeking a post-safari fly-and-flop beach destination will love the Kenyan coast with its white sandy beaches, blue sea, and balmy climate. There are some great family properties in Diani Beach, Watamu, and the Lamu archipelago, with plenty of watersports to keep everyone active and entertained. It’s easy to fly from Nairobi to the coast, so a beach add-on is fuss-free for families on extended stays.

Kenya is almost a year-round destination, boasting plenty of warm sunshine during most months. Its climate is punctuated by two rainy seasons: the long rains, typically between April and May, and a second, more fleeting spell of downpours, usually in November and early December, followed by two to three months of dry weather. For peak wildlife action in the Maasai Mara, consider July to September when the Great Migration is at its most dramatic, and cooler climes make Samburu National Reserve more comfortable. A bush-and-beach combination works well in December and January when conditions are ideal on the Kenyan coast.

Kenya’s game drives are second to none, providing a front-row seat to some of Africa’s most prolific wildlife. The Maasai Mara is a Top Five bucket list item for many, particularly during the Great Migration when thousands of wildebeest thunder through its terrain. You’ll explore vast swathes of land in Laikipia while barely encountering another vehicle. Samburu National Reserve is proud of its diverse wildlife, including lion, elephant, leopard, cheetah, reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, hippo, buffalo, and plenty of antelopes.

Outside the national reserves, opportunities for guided walking safaris allow older children and adults to explore some incredible settings on foot. There are lower age limits on walking safaris for safety reasons, so be sure to check the requirements with your safari specialist. On a guided walking safari, your family will delve into the smaller details of Kenya’s varied ecosystems, including birds, grasses, and insects. Learn how to identify animal tracks and spoor to know exactly which wildlife species you’ve crossed paths with. Traverse terrain with people whose ancestors have walked these lands for millennia, and connect with nature in a unique and memorable way.

Horse riding offers an entirely new dimension to wildlife safari, bringing you close to plains game and inviting an unparalleled connection with nature. As there are horses suitable for all riding levels, anyone can take to the bush for the experience of a lifetime while surrounded by the sights and sounds of the wild. Adventurous travellers with older children might like to pair this activity with a thrilling night fly camping.

Capable of travelling long distances and getting into hard-to-reach areas, camels are an incredible way to trek parts of northern Kenya. You’ll cross dry riverbeds and come across breathtaking landscapes at every turn, sharing your finds with virtually no one else. Led by highly experienced guides, you’ll discover the wildlife and cultures of the region, taking in its unique qualities from a completely different perspective.

As a pioneering safari destination, explorer-style fly camps in off-the-beaten-track locations are something Kenya does exceedingly well! Often only accessible on foot or perhaps even horseback, depending on the location, you’ll sleep in lightweight tents out in the bush with hearty meals beneath the stars and storytelling around the campfire.

Kenya deserves its reputation as an action-packed destination with plenty of adrenaline-rush potential! Quad bikes are an exhilarating way to venture off track and explore some of its backcountry. Head off along untrodden paths and dry riverbeds accompanied by an expert guide, with breakfast and sundowner rides both possible on request. A truly invigorating and different way to experience safari!

Kenya is known for the Big Five species that roam the golden grasses of its Maasai Mara plains. Yet its ecological diversity extends far beyond the Mara ecosystem and the famed lion, rhino, leopard, elephant, and Cape buffalo. Samburu National Reserve has its own ‘Special Five’, while Laikipia’s highlights include wild dog sightings, and lucky visitors might even catch sight of the rare black leopard here. Tsavo is home to some of the world’s last remaining bull elephant Super Tuskers, characterised by their enormous tusks that sometimes even trail the ground!

Kenya has endless wonderful lodges and camps designed to cater to all tastes and budgets. Some properties have belonged to the same families for generations, delivering warm hospitality, charm, and character in spades! There are unfenced, rustic bush camps, mobile camps led by some of the most iconic names in the safari industry, contemporary-chic lodges, and supremely luxurious private estates for exclusive-use bookings.

Kicheche Mara is a classic unfenced safari camp in Mara North Conservancy with a selection of comfortable, family-friendly tents. The terrific range of activities for kids here includes bush walks, fly camping, beading, tracking, archery, spear throwing, and fire-making.

Another family favourite in the Mara North Conservancy, Serian The Original is an intimate camp with just five tents, including a two-bedroom family unit. Game drives, walking safaris, bush running, fishing, and fly camping keep guests busy!

&Beyond Kichwa Tembo is a luxurious Maasai Mara camp that welcomes children of all ages. It has three family tents and a special WILDChild programme that keeps the little ones engaged with a range of unique, fun activities.

Located in the heart of Laikipia, El Karama Lodge is a great option for families with younger children thanks to the child-friendly activities and accommodation options. The lodge has its own Bush School that will keep kids entertained while learning about the bush and resident wildlife.

A charming lodge on a 24,000-acre private conservancy in Laikipia, Sosian is the ideal choice for families. Child-friendly dining, a heated swimming pool, and brilliant activities such as horse riding, camel treks, mountain biking, and kayaking give Sosian its winning streak.

Also in Kenya’s Central Highlands, Borana Lodge has two spacious family cottages and many awe-inspiring experiences both on- and off property. Some of its highlights include children’s pony riding, farm visits, cooking lessons, and cultural activities.

A luxurious lodge within the Kalama Community Wildlife Conservancy, Saruni Samburu has four family villas. Activities include game drives, guided bush walks, mountain cave visits where you’ll find ancient rock art, helicopter excursions, and even a ‘Warriors Academy’ for children.

Ol Donyo Lodge is an upscale property in Kenya’s Chyulu Hills with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and easy access to Amboseli National Park. There’s a two-bedroom family suite with its own swimming pool, star-bed, and private game drive vehicle.

Family-owned Enasoit is a fabulous choice for those seeking a luxurious but homely exclusive-use tented camp in Laikipia. Overlooking an active waterhole, you’ll likely see plenty of game while enjoying delicious home-cooked meals in the cosy mess tent.

Due to its ‘home-away-from-home’ feeling, families can look forward to an unforgettable beach holiday at Kinondo Kwetu, located just south of Diani Beach on Kenya’s southern coast. Family cottages and the range of activities make it a great family option.