A raw and real beauty: local expert tips for your Kenya trip

From the spectacular crags of soaring mountains to the endless grasslands that play host to the Great Wildebeest Migration (starring two million herd animals), Kenya is a country where drama comes as standard. Alex, one of our local experts, keenly shares his top advice and recommendations to help you make the most of your trip to Kenya. Read on now, and if his stories and suggestions leave you feeling inspired, don’t hesitate to get in touch…

First off, tell us a bit about your love for your home country, Kenya…

Kenya really is one of those places that stays with you. The beauty here is so raw and real—from the wide-open savannahs where lions lounge under acacia trees, to the peaceful rhythm of the coast where the beaches feel almost untouched.

It’s not just about the landscapes, though—they’re incredible, yes—but it’s the feeling you get when you’re out there, watching a herd of elephants move quietly across the land, or sitting by a fire under the stars, listening to the sounds of the wild. There’s a kind of magic in Kenya that’s hard to put into words, but once you experience it, you’ll understand why people fall in love with it.

What top tips do you have for those planning a Kenya trip?

If there’s one thing I’d truly recommend, it’s visiting the Masai Mara during the quieter months—from January to June. Most people plan their trips around the Great Migration in July and August, which is spectacular, yes—but what they miss is the quiet magic that unfolds earlier in the year.

During these months, the Mara feels more personal, more intimate. You won’t be jostling for space with dozens of vehicles—you’ll often have moments entirely to yourself. February, especially, is something special. It’s the peak of the wildebeest calving season, and the plains are alive with newborns—tiny elephant calves learning to use their trunks, wobbly-legged zebra foals, and lion cubs tumbling over each other in the grass.

It’s not just about seeing wildlife—it’s about feeling connected to the rhythm of life in the wild. And with fewer tourists around, you really get the space to soak it all in. It’s peaceful, breathtaking, and, honestly, a time of year most people don’t realize is just as rich—if not richer—than the high season.

If you could pick just three Kenya travel highlights, which would you choose?

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

This isn’t just a place to see wildlife—it’s where conservation comes to life. Nestled between the foothills of Mount Kenya and the Aberdares, Ol Pejeta is a haven for the Big Five, but what makes it truly unforgettable is the chance to see the world’s last two northern white rhinos. They’re under 24/7 armed protection, and just being near them—knowing you’re witnessing a species on the edge—is both heartbreaking and humbling. You leave not just with amazing wildlife sightings, but with a deeper understanding of what’s at stake and how you can be part of something bigger.

Samburu and northern Kenya

For those craving something wild and a little off the beaten path on their Kenya trip, Samburu is a gem. The landscape is stark and stunning—dramatic hills, dry riverbeds, and a rich tapestry of color that shifts with the light. This is where you’ll find the Samburu Special Five—like the elegant, long-necked gerenuk—and far fewer tourists.

But what really stays with you are the people. The Samburu culture is vibrant and proud, and spending time with local guides opens up a completely different layer of the safari experience. It’s remote, it’s real, and it touches your spirit in a different way.

The Greater Masai Mara Ecosystem

Everyone’s heard of the Masai Mara, and it lives up to every bit of the hype. But for a deeper, more meaningful experience, I always recommend staying in one of the bordering conservancies like Naboisho or Mara North. These areas are rich in wildlife and allow for a more exclusive safari—think fewer vehicles, more freedom, and the chance to do things like walking safaris or night drives. You’ll also be guided by local Maasai who know the land like the back of their hand and share stories that bring the bush to life in ways no textbook ever could. It’s the kind of safari that doesn’t just thrill you—it connects you.

Read more: Kenya’s national parks and wildlife reserves

What about your favorite recommendations for foodies?

If there’s one dish you have to try on your Kenya trip, it’s nyama choma—our beloved fire-grilled meat. It’s not just food, it’s a whole experience. Whether it’s goat, beef, or sometimes even more adventurous cuts like crocodile or ostrich, the meat is slowly roasted over open flames and served simply, often with kachumbari (a fresh tomato and onion salad) and ugali (our version of cornmeal polenta).

But more than what’s on the plate, nyama choma is about coming together. It’s what we eat when we’re celebrating, catching up with friends, or just enjoying a lazy Sunday afternoon. You’ll often find people gathered around the grill, sharing stories, laughing over drinks, and letting the day unfold with no rush at all.

If you’re in Nairobi, Carnivore Restaurant is a great place to start—especially if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s all-you-can-eat, and you’ll get a chance to sample exotic meats alongside the classics. But if you really want to eat like a local, find a roadside nyama choma joint and join the crowd. You’ll walk away with a full belly and an even fuller heart.

Do you have any special advice to share with first-time travelers?

If you’re coming to Kenya for safari—which you absolutely should—my biggest piece of advice is: don’t skip the coast. Most people don’t realize that after the savannahs and game drives, Kenya has this whole other side that’s just as magical—the Swahili Coast.

Places like Diani Beach offer powdery white sand, warm turquoise water, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect after days spent on safari. You can go kitesurfing, snorkel over coral reefs, or just relax under a palm tree with a fresh coconut in hand. But if you want something truly special, head to Lamu. It’s like stepping back in time—no cars, just donkeys and dhow boats, narrow winding alleyways, and centuries-old Swahili architecture. The culture is so rich, the food is incredible, and there’s a sense of peace and rhythm that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Read more: Exploring the beautiful beaches of Kenya

When’s the best time to visit Kenya?

If you’re looking for the sweet spot—when Kenya is lush, peaceful, and far less crowded—March is a beautiful time to visit. It’s just before the long rains, and the landscape starts to transform into this vibrant green, bringing a sense of calm and renewal to the bush.

From March to May, you’ll find lower rates, fewer safari vehicles, and a slower, more intimate pace. It’s the kind of safari experience where you can sit quietly with a pride of lions or watch elephants move through golden grasslands—without a dozen other lenses pointed at the same scene.

Yes, you might get the occasional afternoon shower, but it only adds to the atmosphere. This is a season of new life, with baby animals dotting the plains and migratory birds in full display. It’s less about the Instagram moments and more about the quiet, soul-stirring ones—the kind you carry with you long after the journey ends.

Make it happen

Reach out to our local experts today and start planning a magical trip to Kenya, filled with culture, wildlife and adventure. Whatever it is you’re hoping to see, do and experience, they’re on hand to tailor-make the perfect itinerary.