Sunrise to Stargazing: A Day in the Life on a Kenya Safari
Kenya safari holidays are known for offering the ideal blend of adventure and tranquillity. From action-packed game drives to late afternoon sundowners, your trip is sure to be full of variety. But what does the average day on a Kenyan safari look like?
Every itinerary can be customised to your specific preferences to ensure you maximise your time away from home.
In this article, we aim to walk you through a typical day on a Kenya safari holiday so you can learn more about what to expect. From dawn to dusk and well into the night, there is so much to look forward to!
Magical Pre-Dawn Wake-Up
No matter the season, the sun never rises between 6:15 and 6:40, with minimal variation due to Kenya’s location near the equator. We recommend waking up around 6 am so you can watch the sunrise over the vast African landscape while listening to the native birds chirping. If you listen carefully, you may also hear the sounds of other animals.
This is truly the most magical time of the day, so you want to make the most of it. Grab your morning coffee and get comfortable as you soak up the beauty of the sun, beginning its daily journey. Next, it’s time to shower and prepare yourself for a day filled with exciting adventures in the Kenyan bush!
Early Morning Game Drive
One of the major highlights of any day spent on a Kenya safari holiday is undoubtedly the early-morning game drive. Whether you’re going on a group or private game drive, your knowledgeable ranger is sure to offer a friendly smile and loads of fascinating information about the local fauna and flora.
Keep your eyes peeled for animals like giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and dozens of bird species. Make sure to pack your camera and a decent pair of binoculars if you want a glimpse of the Big Five – lions, leopards, rhinos, buffalo, and elephants.
Delicious Bush Breakfast
Most early morning game drives include a bush breakfast, where a few guides will go ahead to set up breakfast at a spot overlooking a breathtaking view. There is no better place to have your morning eggs and bacon than at the edge of a cliff or alongside the banks of a lake.
Don’t worry. The spot is always checked for any potentially dangerous animals ahead of time, so you don’t have to worry about sharing your brekkie with the local wildlife. This is a great opportunity to get to know your safari guides and other travellers.
World-class chefs typically prepare all food, so you can look forward to amazing flavours and meals that cater to all dietary preferences.
Midday Relaxation at the High-End Lodge
Depending on what time of year you visit Kenya, the midday heat can be pretty intense. This is the perfect time to unwind and take advantage of the comfort offered by your high-end lodge. Put on the ceiling fan and take a nap or sunbathe at the pool with a good book in hand.
This is the time to recharge for afternoon activities. If you’re travelling with a loved one, you can take the midday opportunity to spend quality time together and reflect on your trip thus far.
Many lodges offer on-site spas, where you can enjoy a massage or a variety of other treatments. This is a fantastic way to truly unwind and make the most of your time away from work and other everyday stresses.
Light Lunch to Keep You Going
Before you get started on your afternoon activities, you’ll be served a light lunch to ensure that you’re properly fuelled. Some lodges serve buffet-style lunches, while others offer à la carte options. Here, you can soak in the gorgeous view of your surroundings.
While most safari lodges in Kenya utilise local ingredients, Western options are also readily available. Please ensure you confirm any dietary preferences in advance. You’re sure to be well-fed and enjoy delicious, nutritious meals, making lunchtime a daily event to look forward to.
Afternoon Game Drive
Once you have gathered your energy after lunch, it is time to go on another game drive! In most cases, you will explore a different part of the reserve or park than you did in the morning. Don’t hesitate to ask your guide questions about different species as you enjoy the gorgeous views and exciting animal sightings.
Sometimes, the afternoon game drive is replaced with a different type of safari, such as a walking safari, horseback safari, or even a hot-air balloon ride. There is truly nothing more magnificent than spotting a herd of zebras from the air as you float above them amongst the clouds.
Elegant Sundowners
Sunsets in Kenya are renowned for being among the most magnificent in the world. Pop on your sunglasses so you can take in all the beauty this site has to offer, and remember to bring your camera along with you as well.
From mocktails to locally crafted beers and everything in between, tasty beverages are a must.
If you want to get dressed up, this is definitely your opportunity! After all, you’re on holiday, and a few sunset photos of you looking your very best and feeling great will become some of your most cherished keepsakes. Don’t want to dress up? Get comfortable and enjoy the no-pressure environment for everything that it is – magnificent!
Gourmet Dinner
After an exciting day of activities, you’re sure to have built up quite the appetite. The good news is you have a delicious gourmet dinner to look forward to. In recent years, luxury lodges in Kenya have significantly enhanced their culinary offerings.
You may dine in the onsite restaurant, but if you’d like a bit of extra privacy, speak to the manager about having your dinner in your room or another more secluded location.
Mouth-watering, 3-course dinners are standard procedure at most lodges. Indulge in fresh, locally sourced ingredients as you catch up with your travel companions and share safari stories. If you loved your meal, don’t forget to give your compliments to the chef.
Serene Stargazing
Choose between going on a specialised stargazing tour with a local guide or simply admiring the constellations from your private deck. Without the light pollution of urban areas, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of the Milky Way.
Once you begin yawning, it’s time to head back to the luxurious comfort of your room and get ready for bed. Take a nice hot shower and reflect on your fantastic day spent in the Kenyan wilderness! Tomorrow, you’ll get to do it all over again.
Are you ready to book your Kenya safari holiday and enjoy the ultimate blend of comfort, relaxation, and adventure? This beautiful country is sure to impress you with its stunning views and diverse animal life. Here at Tailormade Africa, our travel experts come up with custom itineraries to ensure every traveller’s holiday is one they will never forget! If you want to learn more about what we have to offer, contact their passionate team.
