Depending on the parks you chose to include in your itinerary, there may be more than one way to reach each of them. Choosing the best transportation option will depend on the distance to the parks you want to visit, the amount of time you have and how much you want to spend on the road and your budget. In this article we break down the different transportation options you will have when planning a safari in Kenya.
Self Drive
Kenya boasts a well-maintained network of roads that connect major cities to various park entrances. Nairobi serves as a gateway to several parks, including the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo. Renting a car or hiring a private driver allows for flexibility and the opportunity to soak in the scenic beauty along the way. However, it’s essential to plan your routes in advance and ensure that you have a reliable vehicle equipped for off-road adventures as the terrain can get rough.
Guided 4×4 Landcruiser
Specialized safari 4×4 Landcruisers are especially purposed vehicles with pop-up roofs to allow passengers to view wildlife. The 4×4 will allow you to comfortably cruise through the diverse terrains of the national parks, while enjoying wildlife viewing through the large windows and open roof. When you chose to travel by 4×4, you will usually have the same vehicle and driver throughout your trip.
Guided Safari Van
The safari van is a cheaper alternative to the 4×4 Land Cruiser. They are typically a modified minibus with a pop-up roof, which just like the 4×4 will allow you to view wildlife comfortably. Safari driver guides have specialized knowledge on the parks and have access to radio frequencies where they share wildlife sightings so that you never miss out on the action.
Flight
If you are looking for convenience and time efficiency, flying directly to the park’s airstrip can be an excellent option. Kenya’s domestic airlines offer regular flights to airstrips located in or near many national parks, reducing travel time significantly. Airports in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Eldoret provide connections to destinations such as the Maasai Mara, Samburu, and Amboseli. These flights will offer you stunning aerial views of Kenya’s landscapes but also help you maximize your time in the parks, especially if you are on a limited schedule.
Train
The Madaraka Epress, also known as the SGR is a modern train line that connects Nairobi to Mombasa, with multiple stops in between. If you are going to Amboseli or Tsavo, choosing the train as your transportation option is a good way to save some time on the road. You can then have your lodge pick you up from the nearest train station, a service that is often included in the ground packages. Along the way, you will be treated to sweeping views of savannas, valleys, and distant hills and might be able to even spot some wildlife if you are lucky.
Choosing the right transportation
Ultimately, what transportation you use will depend on your own preferences. It can also be an option to mix them up to get a wider range of experiences, like flying in and driving out. When booking on Tukio, you are able to explore all the options available to and from the destinations you choose, as well as the costs associated to them to help you make your decision. You can also reach out to us for more advice.
