How Kenya's diversity offers a sustainable safari vacation for everyone

A big game safari on the sweeping savannas of Africa is a dream vacation—one that more travelers should feel empowered to realize.

With tons of pent-up travel demand and people eager to spend time outdoors, Africa's open spaces are more appealing than ever. And with the pandemic leading many to reconsider their priorities, such "bucket list" trips have become especially appealing. But planning a safari trip can feel intimidating. Where do you stay? How do you see the wildlife? And which country is the right fit?

For members looking for where to start, AAA partner African Travel Inc., recommends Kenya, the birthplace of the traditional safari and a leader in conserving wildlife and cultures, because it offers great answers to these questions. Its wide range of ecosystems are home to familiar African favorites and rarer species found only in Kenya, and it features iconic sights like the Great Migration of wildebeest and the snowy peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro. Add in year-round game viewing, cultural experiences, options for luxury and value-conscious travelers, and amazing experiences where you participate in Kenya’s conservation success story, and it's clear why Kenya is a powerhouse.

1. The "bucket list" dream vacationer

Travelers looking for the Out of Africa experience will find it on Kenya's grassy plains. Much of that 1985 movie was filmed in the Maasai Mara, a massive game reserve in the southwest where the real Karen Blixen lived. Maasai Mara is also home to all the "Big 5" African game species—elephants, rhinos, Cape buffalo, lions, and leopards— and a premier place to see them. 

It's also one of the best places to see East Africa's Great Migration, known as the "World's Greatest Show." Millions of wildebeest and zebras pour into Maasai Mara from July to November in search of fresh grazing, making treacherous crossings of the Mara River and gathering in herds that stretch as far as the eye can see.

About 200 miles to the southeast, guests to Amboseli National Park can see its famous elephants against the backdrop of snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro, another of Africa's most iconic sights. In fact, Kenya has had an elephant baby boom during the pandemic and visitors can adopt and name an elephant as well as seeing these amazing creatures in the wild.

2. Travelers looking for value

Great Migration aside, most animals in Kenya don't migrate, so there are experiences to be had year-round. Visitors can enjoy lower rates and fewer crowds by timing their trip for the off-season.

One of the times that African Travel recommends is the "Green Season," a rainy period that occurs in East Africa from November to December and again in April. The rains bring new green growth, bright flowers, migrant birds, and—best of all—baby animals born just in time to take advantage of all the new food. These factors combine for a photographer's paradise if you're looking to snap great shots of wildlife (especially predators) and verdant landscapes.

3. Group travelers

Going on a safari with a small group of around a dozen people is also popular. "More travelers are delving deeper into destinations with like-minded people," according to Sherwin Banda, African Travel’s president. “Guests can join an overland driving safari itinerary that stops at multiple destinations, giving visitors a fuller picture of Kenya as well as time to mingle with locals and fellow explorers,” added Banda.

Kenya is home to dozens of different cultures, and while English and Swahili are widely spoken as official languages, many communities preserve their native tongues. The modern and the ancient exist here together, whether in major cities like Nairobi or out in the bush, and exploring Kenya’s heritage is one of the most rewarding parts of any visit.

Visitors can see this in action, in conversations in local villages, and on safari with guides who can share how ancestral traditions interact with the land and how they inform life today.

4. Active travelers

Those looking for adventure can opt for one of the most exciting ways to see Africa: the flying safari, which is well-developed in Kenya. Guests are flown from camp to camp in a small aircraft instead of transferring by road. Not only does it maximize your time, it also gives you a bird's-eye view of the vistas below.

Follow herds of migrating animals, see areas that aren't accessible by road, and better understand how different features shape the landscape. It also allows you to go to more off-the-beaten-path destinations like Lewa Wildlife Conservancy or Samburu National Park. A must is spotting animals found only north of the equator in these areas like the "Samburu 5": the reticulated giraffe, beisa oryx, gerenuk, Somali ostrich, and Grevy's zebra.

5. Family, friends, & multigenerational travelers

Families—especially multi-generational family groups—and friends are opting to spend time together on safari. "We are seeing more family and friends joining in groups to unlock our special experiences, including villa or camp takeovers, exclusive dinners, and private tours," says Banda. Each group differs in size, age, and needs, so there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Kenya's wealth of options suits that well, with many family-owned lodges that offer hands-on experiences for younger kids, Instagram-worthy sights for older ones, and lots of bonding time for everyone.

6. Travelers who want to make a positive impact

African countries have made great strides in wildlife conservation; while safaris once focused on hunting, today they're about seeing the animals and protecting them. In fact, going on safari is one of the best ways to help Africa's most endangered species, as tourism helps fund conservation efforts at many lodges and camps.

Kenya has led the way in conservation efforts with many sanctuaries and conservancies protecting endangered rhinos and African elephants. Seeking out these natural treasures both provides for them directly and demonstrates the importance of protecting them into the future.

7. Honeymoons & other celebrations

Travelers looking to celebrate an unforgettable honeymoon, romantic escape, or other special occasion will find plenty to recommend Kenya. Arrestingly beautiful Great Rift Valley landscapes like the commanding peak of Mount Kenya, the shimmering expanse of Lake Nakuru, and the verdant Ngong Hills are perfect backdrops for spending time with special people.

Kenya is great for adventurous couples looking for a romantic getaway that has a positive impact. Couples will enjoy stylish lodges and camps that allow plenty of time for exciting wildlife spotting and relaxing moments together, as well as unique bonding experiences, while their travels make a difference.