Planning a holiday to Kenya promises a spectacular adventure where every moment is magical. With the festive season approaching, now is the perfect time to start organising your dream getaway. Whether you’re unsure of where to go, what to do, or how to create unforgettable memories, Magical Kenya—the official destination website by the Kenya Tourism Board—puts everything you need right at your fingertips.
Picture this: From the red savannahs and lush rainforests to towering mountains and pristine beaches, Kenya offers an array of breathtaking landscapes, perfectly suited for every type of traveller—families, solo adventurers, groups, and thrill-seekers alike.
What makes Kenya truly magical is how each landscape, culture, and experience weaves together to create a personalised adventure tailored to your tastes and desires.
As you plan your holiday around Kenya, discover the magic through "Tembea Kenya," Kenya's official destination platform by Kenya Tourism Board. Recently nominated for the World Travel Tech Awards 2024, this platform ensures you have an unforgettable experience, whether you're seeking a coastal getaway, an adventurous expedition, or a cultural celebration.
Magical Moments Await
Planning your extraordinary journey is made easy with "Tembea Kenya" by the Kenya Tourism Board. Explore diverse destinations featuring untamed nature, unique ecosystems, and iconic wildlife, all waiting to create your perfect holiday memories.
Accommodation Packages:
Maasai Mara by Flight – starting from Sh117,400 for two nights
Witness the majestic wildlife of Maasai Mara on an unforgettable safari adventure where nature comes alive. Enjoy a scenic flight to and from, and arrive ready to be picked up in a 4×4 Land cruiser for your exclusive use for three days, not forgetting luxurious accommodations.
For this package, you have a choice of the following hotels and lodges:
Jambo Mara Safari Lodge 4, Mara Sopa Lodge 4, Emayian Luxury Camp 5, Mar Engai Lodge 5, Sarova Mara Game Lodge 5 (Prices for this vary according to individual hotels and lodges – check with your tour service provider)
This package includes two Nights’ Accommodation sharing in a double/twin room, meals as per the hotel of choice, flight to and from, three days’ ground handling Land Cruiser Transport services, two scheduled game drives per day, one bush breakfast and one sundowner in Mara Engai, and unlimited game drives.
Three Days in Maasai Mara – from Sh37,085
This bespoke safari offers an immersive experience in the Maasai Mara, combining thrilling wildlife encounters, luxurious accommodations, and rich cultural interactions. Whether you choose the breathtaking hot air balloon safari or the intimate moments with the Maasai people, every aspect of this itinerary is designed to create lasting memories and a deep connection with the African wilderness.
If you are in luck, you will also witness one of the spectacular Seven Wonders of the World – The Great Migration. Each year, over two million wildebeest, zebra, and other herbivores trek from the southern Serengeti to the lush green grasses of the Maasai Mara. The Great Migration is an iconic safari must-see.
12 Hours in Amboseli National Park – Sh65,500
This day trip to Amboseli offers a thrilling blend of wildlife sightings, stunning landscapes, and cultural insights. It is a perfect, albeit brief, immersion into the heart of Africa’s natural beauty.
The package is for per person sharing (minimum seven pax), land includes land cruiser/flight, shared game drives, park entrance fees, lunch, return flight tickets, and airstrip transfers.
12 Hours in Maasai Mara – Day trip – Sh86,500
If you love wildlife and thrilling game drives, this experience is for you. You will travel to the iconic Maasai Mara National Reserve, where you can spot the majestic Big Five and witness the Mara River’s awe-inspiring wildlife spectacles. You will also indulge in a picturesque bush picnic amidst stunning savannahs and immerse yourself in Maasai culture with a visit to a traditional village, showcasing its vibrant customs and rich heritage.
This package includes a land cruiser/flight, shared game drives to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve, Park entrance fees, picnic lunches, return flight tickets, and airstrip transfers.
Three Days in Amboseli, Kilimanjaro at Sh37,060
Upon arrival at Amboseli witness iconic elephants against the stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, enjoy full-day game drives, and savour a picnic lunch amidst the African wilderness. Conclude with a final morning game drive.
Three Days in Tsavo West National Park – Sh28,425
A thrilling two nights-three-day safari in Tsavo West. It includes exploring Mzima Springs and Chyulu Hills while spotting elephants, giraffes, and zebras. Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Jipe and visit the stunning Lake Chala, with a chance to see rhinos at the sanctuary.
Cultural and Culinary Experiences
Kenyan Western Culture and Culinary Experience – four days – Sh60,000
Delve into the rich cultural tapestry and vibrant culinary traditions of Western Kenya with this immersive tour package. Explore the unique customs and practices of local communities through interactive cultural tours, traditional music, and dance performances.
You will enjoy authentic Western Kenyan cuisine, from delicious fish dishes from Lake Victoria to the famous ugali and sukuma wiki. Visit bustling local markets, participate in cooking classes, and enjoy farm-to-table experiences highlighting the region’s agricultural bounty. This package offers a captivating journey into the heart of Western Kenya’s culture and gastronomy.
Western Kenya Island Escape – four days – Sh59,999
Experience the enchanting beauty of Western Kenya with a tour of its serene islands. Start with Rusinga Island, known for its history and cultural heritage. Continue to Takawiri Island, known for its stunning white sand beaches and clear waters, for relaxation and water activities. Conclude your journey on Mfangano Island, where you’ll explore lush landscapes and immerse yourself in unique local traditions. This tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and tranquillity in the heart of Lake Victoria.
Three days to discover Homabay County – from Sh53,925
A three-day journey through the cultural and natural wonders of Homabay County begins with a departure from Kisumu to the Tom Mboya Mausoleum built in honour of the Kenyan Hero, Tom Mboya. Later, immerse yourself in the vibrant Oriang Market, where local artisans showcase exquisite pottery. After this, you can engage in the thrilling Experience of traditional fishing on Lake Victoria’s shores before indulging in a lakeside lunch with freshly caught delicacies.
This package also includes an exploration of Rusinga Island Lodge before an evening game drive at Ruma National Park. On the second day after a sumptuous breakfast, you set out to explore the sun-soaked bliss on Takawiri Island. Here, you will discover ancient rock art on Mfangano Island. Part of the exciting activities includes an unforgettable bird-watching experience on Bird Island. The Island is part of the enchanting islands of Lake Victoria experience.
On this fun-filled adventure, you will engage with local communities and learn their customs and traditions. On the farewell day, you get a memorable experience as you travel back to Kisumu on board a ferry to explore the mystical rock formations of Kit Mikayi, encounter the diverse wildlife of the Impala Sanctuary, and conclude your adventure with a serene lakeside retreat at Dunga Hill Camp. Here, you get to savour the tranquillity and breathtaking vistas before your return journey.
Kivuko Eco Camp Tour – per day – Sh29,200
This unique travel package is for a minimum of six people and includes: A Madaraka Express economy class return ticket, return transfers from Miasenyi station, shared game drives accommodation on full-board, service of a professional guide, package, guided nature walks, a cultural visit to the Kasigau Women Basket Weavers, single supplement applicable, Tsavo Park fees, a visit to Lucario vegetable farm visit
Exclusive Experiences
Three Days Ol Pejeta Conservancy Safari – Sh106,500
The Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a 360 km² not-for-profit wildlife conservancy in Central Kenya's Laikipia County. It is situated on the equator west of Nanyuki, between the foothills of the Aberdares and Mount Kenya.
From a working cattle ranch in colonial Kenya to a trailblazer of conservation innovation - the story of Ol Pejeta is as enchanting as it is inspirational. It has some of the highest predator densities in Kenya, and still manages a very successful livestock programme.
Today, Ol Pejeta is the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa, and home to two of the world’s last remaining northern white rhinos. It is the only place in Kenya to see chimpanzees, in a sanctuary established to rehabilitate animals rescued from the black market.
Ol Pejeta has something special to offer every visitor, from its magnificent landscapes and abundant biodiversity to its dedication to conservation and community empowerment. So, make travel plans now and discover the magic of this undiscovered East African treasure.
Three Days Meru National Park Safari - From Sh77,840
If you want to experience complete magical wilderness as nature intended, a trip to Meru National Park will be the ultimate experience. This wilderness is a marvellous, remote, rugged, and prominently unspoilt, territory.
The Park sits intact in a wilderness less visited yet surrounded by undiluted natural beauty. It is wild and beautiful, straddling the equator and bisected by 13 rivers and numerous mountain-fed streams. The scenery is diverse from woodlands at 3,000ft on the slopes of Nyambene mountain range, northeast of Mt. Kenya to wide-open plains with meandering riverbanks dotted with doum palms.
The park teems with wildlife species including elephant, Grevy’s zebra, lion, cheetah, leopard, hartebeest, hippo, buffalo, and the reticulated giraffe. Meru hosts a rhino sanctuary home to the endangered black and white rhino species. Critically endangered, the rhinos are under twenty-four-hour surveillance. The sanctuary offers one of the best rhino-viewing experiences in the wild.
Bird life is also exceptionally diverse with over 400 bird species recorded. These include Peter’s Fin foot, inhabiting the Murera and Ura rivers; Pel’s fishing owl, kingfishers, rollers, bee-eaters, starlings, and weavers. The rivers abound with hippo populations, crocodiles, and fish.
The park is famous as the setting for Joy Adamson’s book ‘Born Free”, the story of Adamson’s life and research amongst lions and cheetahs. Elsa the lioness was the most well-known and her grave is marked inside the park.
The Chalbi Desert Experience – four days -Sh45,000
The Chalbi Desert, rugged terrain of Northern Kenya offers an otherworldly landscape and a fascinating array of natural wonders. It is east of Lake Turkana and contains North Horr. Marsabit is the closest major urban centre.
The desert is between Mount Marsabit in southern Ethiopia and Lake Turkana in northern Kenya. The Gabbra pastoralists who live in this region of Kenya refer to it as Chalbi, which is a dry, salty location. About 100,000 square kilometres of the desert at 370 metres above sea level. It’s one of Kenya’s hottest deserts and driest areas – the only place in Kenya that can be considered a real desert.
This package includes: land cruiser transport, meals on full board, 4 nights’ accommodation, park entry fees, professional tour guides and Drivers, and professional photography.
Others include: Chalbi Desert and Sand Dunes Experience, Lake Paradise and Kalacha Oasis, Swimming in Lake Turkana and Boat Rides, A visit to Loyangalani Wind Power Project
Visit the Elmolo Community. Ndoto Mountains, and Ngurunit Slide Rocks Experience.
Four Days in Watamu at Sh30,875
Embark on a four-day journey in Watamu, commencing with beachfront relaxation and a traditional Swahili dinner. Discover turtle conservation, ancient ruins, and lively markets, followed by a morning boat safari and nature walk on the last day.
Five Days in Kilifi – Sh58,200
Kilifi is home to the mysterious Gedi Ruins, an ancient Swahili village that thrived in the 14th century, yet its origins remain a mystery. Boasting pristine beaches and a rich Swahili culture, Kilifi is known for its laid-back atmosphere and offers a serene escape from the hustle of city life.
Places to stay in Kilifi include: Mnarani Beach Club, Beneath the Baobabs, and Red House Beach, Places, and activities you visit and do include a guided tour of the Gedi Ruins Snorkelling in Watamu Marine Park, Kitesurfing and learning the sport at Bofa Beach, boardwalk and birdwatching at Mida Creek, and cultural celebration where you get to learn how to cook Swahili dishes.
Special packages – Budget Honeymoon Package – four days – Sh53,000
Kwale County is a rich tourism destination, popular with honeymooners some of which offer pocket-friendly budgets recognised for their setting and services such as Pendo Villas, Diani, Kwale County
Though Kwale is mainly an inland destination it has a coastline (south of Mombasa, and is home to Ukunda and Diani, which are popular destinations for both local and international tourists.
A honeymoon package at Pendo Villas includes: Return Economy Class SGR Transport, shared transfers to and from the Hotel, three nights’ accommodation on self-catering, room décor, a bottle of wine, cake, and fruit basket.
These prices are pegged on:
Single per person sharing -accommodation – a minimum of seven pax (two nights)
Transport – 4x4 Land Cruiser (Sh49,185)
Meal Plan – Full board: Lunch, dinner, breakfast, plus mid-morning and afternoon tea and snacks
Extras: services of a professional English-speaking driver guide, Park entrance fees, game drives, access to hotel facilities, and all government taxes.
Please confirm the prices with your service provider before embarking on your trip.
Be sure to tick off your bucket list items as you experience them every day and Tag @magicalkenya #BucketlistDestination #TembeaKenya on all social media platforms.
Written by Jayne Rose Gacheri. jgacheri@standardmedia.co.ke
For more information, visit Magical Kenya and start planning your unforgettable adventure today.
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