Kenya might be known for world-class runners and marathoners, but it has more to offer to the world, especially to foreign visitors who wish to holiday here. Spending 2 weeks in Kenya will be filled with an exciting adventure, stunning places, and learning about the culture.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Did you know that Kenya has tons of record-breaking athletes, a lot of safari destinations, and overall abundant biodiversity? It is even famous for the great wildebeest migration, a spectacular moment to witness yearly.
Some well-known people who are from Kenya include Eliud Kipchoge, Lupita Nyong’o and Barrack Obama Sr. The highest mountain in Africa can be seen from Kenya (it is located in Tanzania), and if those reasons aren’t enough to convince people to visit Kenya, it is included in the top four countries in terms of tea production, perfect for tea connoisseurs.
Some activities can only be done in selected countries – including Kenya, such as having breakfast or dinner overlooking the giraffes, wild dog watching, tracking black rhinos, sleeping under the stars, and joining the Safaricom marathon, which is a marathon held in a safari setting.
If that’s not enough reason to spend 2 weeks in Kenya, here’s more. Kenyans are also known for their love of music and dancing. Usually, every Friday night, people could be found in clubs dancing to mugithi or rhumba.
Now we all got a glimpse of what spending some time in Kenya would feel like, keep reading to see our itinerary samples of a 14-day in Kenya vacation.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING KENYA
There are some things that we need to share first before showing you the itinerary options, and those are ways to get around the country, the best time to go, as well as some basic phrases that could be useful, and the currency that they’re using.
Let’s get familiarised with some of the must-knows when planning to stay for 14 days in Kenya.
When is the best time to go to
The best time to visit Kenya would be from July to September. It is the dry season and is also when the great migration of wildebeest and zebra happens. The off-peak season is from December to May, as it is the rainy season, during this time, the trees and bushes are so alive.
If you prefer the off-peak season with short rains, December is your best bet, as there are long rains from March to May. Read this guide about Kenya’s weather to get more in-depth information on when is the best time to visit.
Getting around
The modes of transportation in this country include Boda Boda or motorbike taxis, taxis, rickshaws, and matatus or shared rides.
The most common vehicle used as a matatus is a white Nissan minivan. For destinations a bit farther out, you can ride a bus or get on a domestic flight.
2-week Kenya budget
For an affordable trip, budget around $50-$100 per day per person, totaling $700-$1400. This includes staying in budget accommodations like hostels or budget lodges, eating at local restaurants, using public transportation, and enjoying budget-friendly activities like exploring local markets, hiking, and visiting national parks with basic entry fees.
For a mid-range budget, expect to spend $150-$250 per day per person, amounting to $2100-$3500 for two weeks. This allows for comfortable stays in 3-4 star hotels or lodges, dining at a mix of local and international restaurants, taking domestic flights for convenience, and participating in guided tours and safaris in renowned national parks such as Maasai Mara and Amboseli.
A luxury holiday in Kenya can cost $400-$700 per day per person, totalling $5600-$9800 for two weeks. This includes staying in high-end resorts or luxury safari lodges, gourmet dining experiences, private transfers, and exclusive, personalized safaris and excursions.
Language and currency
The official languages in Kenya are English and Swahili. Some of the Swahili terms that might come in handy during your trip are:
- hujambo/salama – both means hello
- karibu – welcome
- habari gani – how are you
- nafurahi kukuona – nice to meet you
- kwa heri – goodbye
- asane – thank you
- tafadhali – please
Kenya’s currency is called the shilling, which is divided into 100 cents. The most preferred mode of payment in Kenya is cash. You might be able to pay with a credit card in some establishments relating to tourism such as hotels and restaurants.
Visa
Kenya has a straightforward and friendly visa policy. Almost everyone can get an evisa online and it’s valid for 90 days. It’s important to apply for your Kenyan evisa in advance to avoid not being allowed to board your flight.
On the other hand, visitors from East Africa, Singapore, and Malaysia can enter and travel around Kenya without a visa required. You are allowed to stay for up to 90 days.
Important things to pack and prepare for Kenya
Check for recommended vaccines before going to Kenya. Also, have anti-malaria pills on hand. Make sure to consult with a medical expert first about this. This is because safaris naturally have a lot of insects, so it’s best to be prepared.
Bring insect repellant and use mosquito nets. You can even bring a mosquito jacket if you prefer, but it can also be bought once you’re in Kenya.
If you’re fond of using hats, make sure they have adjustable drawstrings because the wind can easily carry them. Make sure to pack light, bring binoculars (if you have one) and purchase a guidebook if you’re interested in knowing all the species you might encounter.
RELATED POST: Download our printable free 2-week trip packing list
Other travel tips for Kenya
They also have a single plastic use ban, so we recommend that you use reusable mesh bags for packing to avoid getting fined. Make sure to not take photos of any government or military buildings because either your phone might be confiscated or you might be detained for questioning. You should also avoid taking photos of young children and tribe members where nudity is common.
Below is a list of travel sites that you can use when booking your accommodation, tours, and flights.
PINNED MAP OF MUST-SEE PLACES IN KENYA
Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google
2 WEEKS IN KENYA ITINERARIES
Kenya really is underrated, from the dramatic landscape transformations as you move across the country, to being home to the Big Five (rhinoceros, elephant, African buffalo, leopard, and lion).
Below, you will find two different itineraries for Kenya. Of course, don’t need to follow it, but it should be helpful when you write your own 2-week itinerary.
Itinerary #1: Nairobi, Amboseli, and Tsavo
The first itinerary option for 14 days in Kenya includes Amboseli, Nairobi, and Tsavo. This itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors. Nairobi is one of Africa’s most influential cities. In fact, it is a vital financial and commercial regional hub. It also has the most number of malls in the whole country.
Amboseli National Park is well-known for its scenic Mount Kilimanjaro view and is also famous for the herd of elephants that you can witness. It is Kenya’s second most famous national park, after the Maasai Mara National Reserve.
While Tsavo is Kenya’s biggest national park and is one of the world’s largest game sanctuaries, it’s the place to go if you want to see wild animals free-roaming and enjoy the scenic region of Kenya.
Nairobi for 4 days
Nairobi is brimming with culture, containing both old and well-preserved and modern infrastructure. It has some of the best attractions in Kenya, and you’ll realise once you’re there that it is also a city that never sleeps.
Their public transport, called matatus, are works of art and might be amazing to see, especially for tourists, as they are filled with graffiti. You can book an airport transfer from and to Nairobi Airport to make your first-day hassle-free.
This is a great place to start your trip. You should also use your time here ironing out the final parts of your planning, such as getting a local sim card, cash, and arranging transportation.
Amboseli National Park for 4 days
There are a couple of options to get to Amboseli National Park from Nairobi, including flying, taking a shuttle, boarding a train, and driving. Taking a shuttle or driving are the best options, while flying is the fastest.
Mount Kilimanjaro can easily be seen once you reach Amboseli National Park. In fact, it even serves as a perfect backdrop for photos taken here. You will also see wild animals here such as elephants, lions, zebras, and a plethora of bird species. It’s recommended to book a safari trip during your visit.
Want to save time? Book a 4-day Safari covering Amboseli and Tsavo National Parks
Tsavo National Park Safari for 5 days
You could get to Tsavo from Amboseli by driving. Tsavo is a perfect destination for those looking for a unique and authentic experience, far from more overcrowded parks.
In case you didn’t see the animals you’re looking for in Amboseli, you can try again in Tsavo National Park. Sign up for a safari with a tour guide to make sure you don’t miss anything.
But one thing you have to remember. The national park is divided into two parts; Tsavo East and Tsavo West, each place offering a different landscape and wildlife experience.
The East is the place to go if you want to see wild animals. On the other hand, the West is for people who want to explore scenic volcanic views and natural springs. If you have five days, you might be able to cover both, but you’ll be in a bit of a tight schedule.
Some of the attractions in this park are Yatta Plateau, Mudanda Rock, Lugard Falls, Kanderi Swamp, Galana and Tsavo River, Aruba Dam, and diverse wildlife.
Itinerary #2 Nairobi, Amboseli, Tsavo, and Mombasa
This 2 weeks in Kenya itinerary includes the same places, plus Mombasa, which is famous for its beaches and rich history. Its coastline is divided into North and South coastlines. This itinerary is perfect for people who want to experience all of Kenya.
The north coast has four notable beaches: English point, Nyali, Bamburi Beach, and Shanzu Beach. The south has two notable beaches, which are Tiwi and Diani Beaches.
Nairobi for 3 days
Aside from the tourist attractions, you’ll also be able to find tons of parks and open spaces here, the most famous of which is Uhuru Park. You can also find Jevangee Gardens, City Park and Central Park.
Nairobi is Kenya’s hub of arts and culture as well, with several art galleries scattered throughout the city to explore. This is a great hub to start your trip and figure out how to get from one place to another.
Amboseli National Park for 3 days
Amboseli National Park is considered one of the most scenic natural spots in Kenya, so this place is a must-visit for those vacationing there. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site that has a seasonal lake named Amboseli Lake. Aside from the various wildlife species, it is also considered an essential birding site in Kenya.
Some options to get to Amboseli from Nairobi include taking a shuttle, flying, boarding a train, or driving. You’ll be able to spot Mount Kilimanjaro once you reach Amboseli National Park easily.
Tsavo National Park for 4 days
If you’re from Amboseli, you can reach Tsavo National Park by driving. We recommend this place for those looking for safari trips because it is less crowded compared to other safari parks near it, and there are tons of species to witness and things to do, so it would definitely be worth your while.
Since you only have 4 days here, it’s recommended to choose only one region between Tsavo East or Tsavo West. If you see wild animals in Amboseli, you should focus on Tsavo West this time to see the volcanic scenery and enjoy the natural springs.
South Africa is another popular safari destination in Africa.
Mombasa for 4 days
To reach Mombasa, if you’re coming from Tsavo, it might take more planning than usual. The easiest way would be to book a private transfer; it’s a 6-hour drive. Another option is to get to Voi, then from there, you can catch a train to Mombasa.
The cheapest option would be to ride a bus and then ride a taxi. Music lovers would be thrilled to know that Mombasa is popular for Mwanzele, Chakacha and Bango sounds, which are all lively music.
Plus, you get to enjoy Kenya’s coastline line, where you can just relax and enjoy the waters. Diani Beach is south of Mombasa, known as a fantastic place to unwind. If you prefer to skip the busy Mombasa city, you can arrange an airport transfer directly to Diani Beach.
Mombasa is a great place to end your trip since you can fly from Mombasa back to Nairobi to catch your flight home.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN KENYA
Here is a quick list of things to do in Kenya, including popular spots such as Amboseli, Tsavo, Nairobi, and Mombasa. You can also save time by booking a 4-day safari tour combo of Amboseli, Tsavo East, and Tsavo West.
Amboseli and around
- Game drive viewing
- Guided nature walk
- Bird watching
- Hot air balloon safari
- Cultural tours
- Wild safari tour – check out this guided day tour
- Traditional dance watching
Tsavo National Park
- Safari Drive
- Mzima Springs
- Chaimu Lava Flows
- Birdwatching
- Roaring Rocks
- Tsavo Safari – sign up for Tsavo East tour or this 4-day East and West (leaving from Mombasa)
Nairobi and around
- Explore Nairobi City – book a historical & modernity city tour or storytelling tour with Street Children or a 4-hour city tour
- Railway Museum
- Ngong Hills
- Nairobi National Park – join a safari tour
- David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
- Giraffe Center and Elephant Trust – sign up for a day tour or a combo tour with Beads Centre & Bomas
- Kazuri Beads Factory Tour
- Bomas in Kenya
- Kiambethu Tea Farm – read the tour reviews of this farm
- Karura Forest Reserve
- Masai Village – look up the tour price
- Karen Blixen Museum
- Hells Gate and Lake Naivasha – book a day trip
- Kenyatta International Conference Center
Mombasa and around
- Explore Mombasa – book a full-day tour or city tour or a half-day scenic bike tour
- Nyali Beach
- Haller Park
- Fort Jesus Museum – there’s a walking tour with an Old Town inclusion
- Mombasa Marine National Park
- Mamba Village Center
- Diani Beach – there’s an airport transfer to Diani Beach
- Nguuni Nature sanctuary
- Taita Hills – join a 2-day safari from Mombasa
- Jumba La Mtwana
- Old Town
- Kisite Park – go for diving and boat tour
- Mombasa Tusks
- Overnight to Tsavo National Park – covering Tsavo East and Diani Beach
- Bombolulu Workshops and Cultural Center
- Cruise – join a Tamarind dinner dhow and cruise
ACCOMMODATIONS IN KENYA
Make sure to book your hotel in advance before you fly in, especially during peak season. There are limited hotels around Kenya, specifically in smaller towns and cities.
Amboseli
- Affordable to Mid-range: Amanya Pitch Tent or Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
- Luxury: Ol Tukai Lodge or Kilima Safari Camp
Nairobi
- Affordable: Milany Homes or Kozi Suites or Erica Residences or Taarifa Suites by Dunhill
- Mid-range: After 40 Hotel or Hotel Boulevard or Wildebeest Eco Camp or The Crossroads Hotel
- Luxury: Crowne Plaza Hotel or The Boma Hotel or The King Post or ibis Styles
Mombasa
- Affordable: CDH Backpackers or Akogo House Hostel
- Mid-range: City Centre Hotel or PrideInn Hotel or City Blue Hotel & Suites
- Luxury: Severin Sea Lodge or Sarova Whitesands Resort and Spa or Sheratton Beach Villagio
SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN KENYA
If you’re going to Nasai Mara from Nairobi, it is most advisable to fly instead of riding a four-wheel drive because you will experience a lot of roadblocks and almost nonexistent roads along the way.
Now you’re almost ready to embark on a trip of 2 weeks in Kenya. I hope that you found this article helpful in planning your vacation to Kenya.
TO SAVE THIS ITINERARY, PIN THIS IMAGE BELOW:
