Booking
How to Book a Kenya Safari
The whole process, start to finish, from a licensed Kenyan operator — including the questions worth asking before you send anyone a deposit.
Key takeaways
- Book 6–9 months ahead for July–October; 3 months is fine for green season.
- Check the operator holds a Kenyan tourism licence and a KATO or TRA registration.
- A 30% deposit is standard; never pay 100% up front to an unknown operator.
- Kenya's eTA replaced the old visa — apply online before you fly.
Step one: dates and shape
Decide roughly when you can travel and how long you have. Migration crossings mean July–October; value and green landscapes mean March–May or November. Then decide the length using the two-nights-per-park rule.
Step two: choose an operator
Book with a licensed Kenyan operator rather than an overseas reseller where you can — you pay one margin instead of two, and the people answering your emails are the people running your trip. Before paying, ask for:
- Their Kenyan tourism licence and KATO or TRA membership number.
- A written itinerary listing camps by name, not 'or similar'.
- The full exclusions list in writing.
- The age and type of vehicle, and whether it is private.
- Their cancellation and postponement terms.
Step three: deposit and payment
A 30% deposit to confirm dates and hold camps is normal, with the balance due two to four weeks before arrival. Card payments and bank transfers are both standard. Be wary of anyone insisting on full payment up front, or on personal money transfer services.
Step four: before you fly
Apply for the Kenyan eTA online — it replaced the visa on arrival and takes a few days. Arrange travel insurance including medical evacuation, see a travel clinic about antimalarials, and confirm your bush flight luggage limit if you have internal flights.
FAQ
Frequently asked
- How far in advance should I book a Kenya safari?
- Six to nine months for high season and Christmas; three months is usually enough for March–May and November.
- Is it cheaper to book a safari in Kenya once you arrive?
- Occasionally, but you gamble on availability, vehicle quality and operator legitimacy. In high season the good camps are already full.
- Do I need a visa for Kenya?
- Most visitors now need an electronic travel authorisation (eTA), applied for online before departure. Check current requirements for your nationality.
- What deposit is normal?
- 30% to confirm, balance before arrival. Full prepayment to an unfamiliar operator is a red flag.
- Can I pay by credit card?
- Yes. We accept card payments and bank transfers, and issue a written confirmation and receipt for each.
Ready when you are
Let's plan your Kenyan safari.
Tell us your dates and interests — we usually send a tailor-made itinerary within 24 hours.