1. Your amazing first safari in Kenya. Start here!

Kenya is huge, and it's amazing. I love the people, the infrastructure is first class, the parks are easy to get to and the concentration of animals is amazing. Kenya is often the first country people research and choose when looking for a safari. I've been there numerous times and keep going back!

As your first time venturing into Kenya - or any safari location for that matter - I recommend booking the trip through a reliable and trusted travel agency or safari outfitter, with experience and established credentials. This is a big trip, and not a small amount of money, and you want the best experience possible. (reach out to me for my trusted, local companies)

Generally, you can expect that the price you pay will be reflected in your experience, and like anything, if you opt for the cheapest, you'll most likely be disappointed. You won't get the best, most experienced guide, showing you the best game viewing in the best lodge or location.

Now, that doesn't mean that you have to spend a fortune to get an incredible experience. And I'll outline many areas of the country and great camps or lodges where you will have the most amazing times.

Be aware that different parks or areas will showcase different animals and experiences. Look for my discussion of each, when considering where you want to go.

I'm focusing this guide and dividing it by different parks and areas, and then withing each, recommended camps, with information about them. The camps are further rated as to price range: $, $$ or $$$ and what type of camp they are: lodge, bush camp or tent. (further info follows)

You will also find information on Nairobi - where to stay and what to do, as most people start their trip by flying into Nairobi (NBO airport code) and could stand to spend a few days there adjusting to any time change or jet lag.

There will also be a few beach destinations along the coast added in, for those who'd like to end their safari that way.

One note: The goal of this guide is not to show you every possible camp/lodge in every area. That would be nearly impossible and too overwhelming when you're trying to figure out where to go. As you become more familiar with Kenya and the numerous parks, you'll see that I've passed over some more off-the-beaten-path locations.

Rather, I'm narrowing down the choices that I think are the best in the most commonly traveled locations for first-timers. My goal is also to give you a choice based on your budget.

If you have questions, feel free to reach out!