It largely depends on what you want to see. For example if you want to fit in the migration at the Maasai Mara, with your birdwatching the best time is between August and November. If you want to see migratory birds, the best time is between September to April.
2. How can I know whether that company is authorized to operate?
Tour and travel agencies in Kenya are authorized and licensed by the Ministry of Tourism www.tourism.go.ke and the company should have a certificate in this respect. A company should also be a member of KATO (Kenya Association of Tour Operators) or KATA (Kenya Association of Travel Agencies).
3. Do we need to take malaria prevention drugs when going on safari?
Yes, you should take a prophylactic treatment against malaria and it advisable to enquire from your doctor, which kind of anti-malaria drugs will be good for you.
4. We have heard people saying that most of the roads in Africa are very bad how are the roads in Kenya?
Most of the main roads, which connect major towns are tarmac and generally in good condition. Be prepared though for roads under repair or roads with potholes. Most of the roads that lead to parks and reserves are all-weather and can be bumpy. Roads in the parks and reserves are well maintained, but during the wet season some roads can be impassable. Enquire about the weather from the company you will be traveling with to decide whether you require a 4X4 vehicle for your travel.
5. How is security and safety in Northern Kenya?
Visitors get confused about which places are safe and which places are not very safe. It is in the extreme north of Kenya between the Kenya-Somali and Ethiopia border that occasionally suffers from problems arising from cattle rustling among different peoples. The wildlife areas of Samburu, Buffalo Springs and Shaba in central northern Kenya receive thousands of visitors each year without any problems.
6. Will we be confined in our vehicles throughout the safari or we will have a chance to walk sometimes?
Except in a few cases, walking in National Parks and Reserves is only allowed at designated areas. However, there are many of other sites like forests (Mount Kenya, Kakamega and Arabuko-Sokoke among others) where walking is expected.
