Kenya is a country of breathtaking beauty and great contrasts - from palm-fringed sandy beaches on the Indian Ocean to the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya (5,199m, 16,890ft) which straddles the Equator; vast open plains and savannah, acacia woodlands, tropical rain forests, small farms, ranches and rich estates of tea, coffee, pineapple, wheat and sisal and harsh arid deserts in the north. The Great Rift Valley, a massive fracture line in the earth's surface, runs from Jordan through Kenya and Tanzania, to Mozambique. Soda and fresh water lakes, interspersed by volcanoes, stretch through the length of the Rift. These variations in altitude and terrain create contrasts in the climate - from the hot humidity of the coast to the cold, sometimes frosty, early mornings and warm, sunny days of the central highlands and the dry burning heat of the northern deserts. The people are just as varied and intriguing - a fascinating mix of cultures. Many retain their ancient traditions and crafts and the nomadic pastoral tribes are amongst the most colourful in Africa. A large proportion of Kenya's territory is reserved for its wildlife - game reserves are situated in some of the finest scenery in Africa. The proliferation and diversity of the animal and bird life is second to none, and the marine life in the coral gardens off shore is spectacular.    

National Parks, Game Reserves and Game viewing - Kenya has many national parks and game reserves, which are home to a spectacular array of animals, birds, reptiles and plant species. They are rated as among the best parks in the whole of Africa. There are also private and tribal community conservation areas which have become sanctuaries to some of the endangered animal species, as well as the more common. Marine life is also excellent and is preserved in the marine national parks off Kiwayau, Malindi, Watamu and Kisite. Along with the wildlife some of the parks have been gazetted to preserve the vegetation and unique location such as Mounts Kenya and Elgon, the Aberdare Range and the Kakamega Forest. Most of these areas are easily accessible by road, and to a number of parks there are scheduled air services.  

When to travel - Throughout the year, however, May, June and November are generally rainy months when the land is refreshingly green and devoid of tourists. It seldom rains all day and short, heavy rain showers are usually followed by sunny periods making this a very pleasant time to visit Kenya. Camping, mountain climbing and camel safaris are more enjoyable during the drier months of the year. July to September are the coolest months with a low of 10 degrees centigrade and high of 26 degrees centigrade and December to March the warmer months. The busiest tourist seasons are December through January, with Christmas and New Year being extremely busy, and the annual wildebeest migration into the Masai Mara which occurs between July and September. You are recommended to book well in advance for these timse of year. The scuba diving season runs from September to April each year. Deep sea fishing is possible all year but the seas can be rough during May, June and November, it is best between December and March.  

Language - Swahili and English are both widely spoken. However in the more remote areas many people speak only their tribal language. There are also drivers/guides and some hotel staff who speak Spanish, French, German, Italian and Japanese.

Health - No vaccinations are required by law. Malaria is prevalent in many areas of Kenya. We highly recommended that you take prophylactics for your trip. For more information on health matters please consult your doctor. It is advisable to do this at least a month before you travel.      

Visas - All incoming visitors to Kenya (except East African Citizens) require a visa, irrespective of nationality. Visas can be obtained upon arrival. It is helpful to obtain the visa from the Kenyan Embassies/High Commissions abroad prior to departure. Please note that requirements may change at any time, and check with your travel agent at time of booking.