Unique Kenya Safari Experiences: Walking & Horseback Adventures

When most people think of a Kenyan safari, they picture a 4×4 vehicle cruising through the savannah, spotting lions and elephants from the safety of the car. While game drives are the classic way to explore, there’s a growing demand for more immersive, off-the-beaten-path safari experiences, and Kenya delivers in the form of walking safaris and horseback safaris.

At Chacal Safaris, we believe the best safaris allow you to slow down, engage your senses, and truly connect with nature. Here’s how walking and horseback safaris offer a fresh, unforgettable perspective on Kenya’s wild beauty.

Walking Safaris: See the Wild Up Close

A walking safari is one of the most intimate ways to experience the African bush. Led by highly trained guides and armed rangers, these safaris allow you to explore the landscape on foot, just like the first explorers and the local communities have for generations.

What makes walking safaris special:

• Track animals by prints and droppings
• Learn about plants, insects, birds, and the ecosystem in a way vehicles can’t offer
• Experience the thrill of walking near giraffes, zebras, or even elephants (from a safe distance)
• Feel the rhythm of the wilderness , every sound, smell, and sight becomes more vivid

You won’t be chasing predators or getting dangerously close to big game, but walking safaris offer something just as powerful: the feeling of being part of the land, not just an observer.

Where to go:

• Laikipia Conservancies (e.g. Ol Pejeta, Lewa, and Borana)
• Masai Mara private conservancies like Naboisho or Mara North
• Lake Naivasha and Crescent Island for gentle guided walks among giraffes and antelope

Horseback Safaris: Ride with the Herds

For experienced riders, a horseback safari is one of the most exhilarating ways to explore Kenya’s wild spaces. Unlike vehicles, horses allow you to move silently through the bush, blending in with wildlife and reaching remote areas inaccessible by car.

Highlights of horseback safaris:

• Ride alongside zebras, giraffes, and antelope  animals see you as another grazer
• Cover more ground than on foot, but still enjoy the quiet of a non-motorized safari
• Perfect for adventurous travelers and nature lovers
• Led by skilled guides who tailor each ride to your ability and comfort level

These safaris range from half-day rides to multi-day mobile safaris, where you ride from one luxury camp to the next.

Best areas for riding:

• Lewa Wildlife Conservancy – known for its excellent horses and scenic trails
• Borana Conservancy – diverse terrain and stunning views of Mount Kenya
• Mugie Conservancy – remote, peaceful, and teeming with wildlife

Safari, Reimagined with Chacal Safaris

If you’re looking to go beyond the vehicle and experience the wilderness in a more natural, thrilling way, walking and horseback safaris are ideal. They offer perspective, connection, and adventure , and show you that Kenya’s magic lies in more than just the Big Five.

At Chacal Safaris, we tailor these unique experiences to fit your interests, comfort, and skill level. Whether it’s your first safari or your tenth, we’ll help you discover Kenya from a new, unforgettable angle.

How Long Should You Spend on a Kenya Safari?

One of the most common questions we get at Chacal Safaris is: “How many days should I plan for my safari in Kenya?” The answer depends on your travel goals, interests, and pace  but generally, 7 to 10 days is the sweet spot for a well-rounded, unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re chasing the Big Five, witnessing the Great Migration, or adding beach time in Diani or Lamu, here’s a breakdown to help you decide how long your Kenyan safari should be  and how to make the most of every day.

Minimum Safari Time: 3–5 Days

Best for: Short visits, weekend getaways, or travelers on a tight schedule.

If you’re short on time, you can still enjoy a fantastic safari by focusing on one key destination like the Masai Mara, Amboseli, or Samburu. These parks offer:

• Reliable Big Five sightings
• Comfortable accommodations
• Easy access via road or short flights

Sample itinerary:

• Day 1: Travel to Masai Mara
• Day 2–3: Game drives and wildlife viewing
• Day 4: Return or connect to next destination

Keep in mind that shorter safaris limit your chances of seeing varied wildlife behavior and landscapes.

Ideal Safari Duration: 7–10 Days

Best for: First-timers, wildlife enthusiasts, couples, or families.

This time frame allows you to explore multiple ecosystems , from the open plains of the Mara to the wetlands of Amboseli and the rugged beauty of Samburu or Laikipia.

Why 7–10 days works so well:

• It allows time to slow down and enjoy sunrise and sunset game drives
• You can split your time across 2–3 parks for variety
• It reduces the pressure of having to “see everything” in one go
• It includes buffer time for travel days and optional activities (like cultural visits or balloon safaris)

Example itinerary:

• Day 1–3: Samburu National Reserve
• Day 4–6: Ol Pejeta or Laikipia Conservancy
• Day 7–9: Masai Mara National Reserve
• Day 10: Return to Nairobi or head to the coast

This approach gives you an in-depth experience, without feeling rushed.

Extended Safari + Relaxation: 12–14 Days

Best for: Honeymooners, photographers, or those combining wildlife with beach or cultural travel.

• If you have more time, you can enjoy:
• Extra days in each park for deeper exploration
• Time to visit less-traveled destinations like Tsavo, Meru, or Lake Turkana
• A relaxing finish at the Kenyan Coast, Lamu Island, or even Zanzibar

Sample extended itinerary:

• Week 1: Explore Masai Mara, Amboseli & Laikipia
• Week 2: Fly to Diani Beach or Watamu for 3–5 days of R&R

Final Thoughts from Chacal Safaris

While you can enjoy a taste of safari in just a few days, we always recommend at least a week for a truly immersive experience. Kenya’s wildlife is rich and varied, and the longer you stay, the more magical moments you’ll witness.

At Chacal Safaris, we tailor every itinerary to your travel style  whether you want a short, impactful trip or a long, luxurious journey through Kenya’s wild heart.

What Makes Maasai Mara the Jewel of Kenya Safaris

When travelers dream of a safari in Kenya, one name rises above the rest: Maasai Mara. Known for its rolling savannahs, legendary wildlife, and dramatic natural events, the Mara is more than just a safari destination , it’s the heart of Kenya’s safari experience.

At Chacal Safaris, we’ve guided countless visitors through the Maasai Mara, and every trip still feels like the first  full of wonder, surprise, and awe. Here’s why the Mara is considered the crown jewel of Kenyan safaris, and what makes it a must-visit.

1. The Great Migration

Perhaps the most iconic reason to visit Maasai Mara is the Great Wildebeest Migration, often called the “world’s greatest wildlife show.” From July to October, over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with zebras and gazelles, pour into the Mara from the Serengeti in Tanzania.

What to expect:

• Epic river crossings at the Mara and Talek Rivers
• Predators like lions, crocodiles, and cheetahs lying in wait
• Jaw-dropping scenes of survival and raw nature at its most dramatic

This event alone draws wildlife enthusiasts and photographers from around the world and with good reason.

2. Exceptional Big Cat Sightings

The Mara is famous for its dense population of predators. Nowhere else in Kenya offers such reliable sightings of lions, cheetahs, and leopards, often seen hunting in broad daylight.

Some highlights include:

• The Marsh Pride and other well-documented lion families
• Cheetahs using safari vehicles as lookout points
• Leopards lounging in fig trees near riverbanks
• For big cat lovers, the Mara is unmatched.

3. Scenic, Open Landscapes

The Mara’s landscape is classic African savannah: golden grasslands, dotted with flat-topped acacia trees, gently rolling hills, and wide-open skies. It provides a picture-perfect backdrop for wildlife photography, sunrise drives, and hot air balloon safaris.

These open plains also make it easy to spot animals, giving visitors high chances of seeing a wide range of species on any given game drive.

4. Year-Round Wildlife Viewing

While the Great Migration draws most visitors, the Mara offers fantastic wildlife all year. Resident herds of elephants, giraffes, buffalos, and antelopes roam the park daily, and predators remain active even in the off-season.

Whether you visit in January or September, you’re likely to enjoy close encounters with iconic animals in their natural habitat.

5. Rich Maasai Culture

The Maasai Mara isn’t just about wildlife ,it’s also home to the Maasai people, one of Kenya’s most well-known and respected communities. Many conservancies are community-run, allowing travelers to visit local villages, learn about Maasai traditions, and understand how conservation and culture are deeply connected.

By staying in Maasai-owned camps or conservancies, you directly support local livelihoods and sustainable tourism.

Plan Your Maasai Mara Safari with Chacal Safaris

At Chacal Safaris, we know the Mara inside out , from the best migration viewing points to secluded spots off the tourist track. Whether you want a luxury lodge experience, a family-friendly escape, or a photography-focused tour, we’ll craft the perfect Mara adventure for you.

Travel Insurance for Your Kenya Safari: Is It Needed?

Planning a safari to Kenya is exciting , the wildlife, the landscapes, the thrill of adventure. But in the midst of choosing lodges and packing binoculars, there’s one detail many travelers overlook: travel insurance.

At Chacal Safaris, we strongly recommend travel insurance for all our guests. While most safaris go smoothly, unpredictable events can  -and do — happen. Here’s what you need to know about travel insurance for your Kenya safari, and why it’s not just a good idea it’s essential.

Why Travel Insurance Is a Must

A safari isn’t your average holiday. You’re flying to remote locations, often taking light aircraft, staying in wilderness areas, and sometimes engaging in adventurous activities. Travel insurance helps protect you  and your investment if things don’t go as planned.

Here’s what it typically covers:

1. Trip Cancellation or Interruption

Life is unpredictable. Illness, family emergencies, or global events can force you to cancel your trip sometimes at the last minute. Travel insurance can reimburse non-refundable costs such as flights, hotel stays, park fees, and safari packages.

Pro tip: Make sure your policy covers cancellations due to both medical and non-medical emergencies.

2. Medical Emergencies and Evacuation

Medical care in Kenya is good in major cities like Nairobi, but in remote safari areas, it can be limited. In case of injury, illness, or accidents, your insurance can cover:

• Hospital stays
• Doctor visits
• Emergency medical evacuation (by air ambulance if needed)

Without coverage, medical evacuation alone can cost thousands of dollars , a major financial risk if uninsured.

3. Lost or Delayed Luggage

Traveling across multiple airports and bush airstrips increases the chances of lost or delayed bags. Good insurance helps replace essentials and reimburses you for clothing, gear, or medication you need while you wait.

4. Unexpected Safari Disruptions

From delayed flights to cancelled game drives due to weather, there are many elements beyond your control. Insurance helps you recover costs and rebook services if needed.

Some policies even offer “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage for extra peace of mind.

What Type of Insurance Should You Get?

Look for a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes:

• Medical and evacuation coverage (minimum $100,000 recommended)
• Trip cancellation and interruption
• Coverage for adventure activities (like walking safaris or hot air ballooning)
• 24/7 assistance and support services

Before purchasing, always:

• Read the fine print
• Declare any pre-existing conditions
• Confirm your safari activities are included

 Is Travel Insurance Required?

While not legally required to enter Kenya, some lodges, safari companies, and charter flights will ask for proof of coverage especially for evacuation insurance. At Chacal Safaris, we consider it a critical part of responsible travel.

Protect Your Adventure with Chacal Safaris

A safari in Kenya is a once-in-a-lifetime experience  make sure it’s protected. With the right travel insurance, you can relax and enjoy your journey knowing you’re covered, no matter w

5 Common Myths About Kenya Safaris — Debunked

When it comes to going on safari in Kenya, there’s a lot of excitement and just as much misinformation. From safety concerns to misconceptions about luxury, many would-be travelers hold back because of myths that simply aren’t true.

At Chacal Safaris, we’re here to separate fact from fiction. Whether you’re planning your first trip or revisiting Africa, here are five common Kenya safari myths  and the truth behind them.

Myth 1: Safaris Are Only for the Wealthy

The Truth:

While luxury lodges and high-end camps exist, Kenya offers safari experiences for a wide range of budgets. From mid-range tented camps to community-owned conservancies and budget group safaris, there’s something for everyone.

At Chacal Safaris, we customize itineraries to fit your budget, travel style, and comfort level  without compromising on the quality of your wildlife experience.

Myth 2: Kenya Is Dangerous for Tourists

The Truth:

Kenya is a safe and well-traveled destination when visited responsibly and with a reputable tour operator. Most safari regions, like the Masai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu, and Laikipia, are far removed from urban areas and political activity.

Travelers who book with professional safari companies, stay in vetted lodges, and follow common-sense safety tips enjoy secure and seamless adventures throughout Kenya.

Myth 3: You’re Guaranteed to See All the Big Five

The Truth:

While Kenya offers incredible opportunities to see the Big Five (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, and buffalo), wildlife is, well, wild. Sightings depend on location, season, weather, and luck.

That said, choosing the right park at the right time dramatically improves your chances. For example:

• Masai Mara for lions and leopards
• Ol Pejeta or Lewa for rhinos
• Amboseli for elephants
• Tsavo for buffalo

Our expert guides at Chacal Safaris know exactly where and when to go to give you the best shot at ticking off your wish list.

Myth 4: Safari Means Rough Camping in the Bush

The Truth:

The word “safari” simply means “journey” in Swahili ,and it doesn’t have to mean roughing it. Kenya is home to some of Africa’s most stylish and comfortable safari lodges and luxury tented camps, complete with ensuite bathrooms, fine dining, and even Wi-Fi.

Prefer a more rustic experience? Budget-friendly eco-camps and lodges still offer clean, comfortable amenities with the added bonus of being close to nature.

Myth 5: Safaris Are All the Same

The Truth:

Every safari is different  even two drives on the same day can offer completely unique encounters. Beyond game drives, Kenya also offers:

• Walking safaris
• Hot air balloon rides
• Night game drives
• Cultural visits
• Photography safaris
• Fly-in tours and scenic flights

Whether you want a romantic honeymoon, an adventurous family trip, or a solo photography expedition, your safari can be as unique as you are.

Ready to Safari Smart?
Don’t let myths keep you from the adventure of a lifetime. With the right planning and a trusted partner like Chacal Safaris, a safari in Kenya is safe, accessible, and completely unforgettable.

Kenya Safari Tours in September–October: Highlights

Planning your safari for September or October? You’re in for one of the best safari seasons in Kenya. These months fall within the peak of the dry season, offering incredible wildlife encounters, spectacular scenery, and fewer travel disruptions. It’s also the tail end of the Great Migration in the Masai Mara with plenty of action still unfolding on the plains.

At Chacal Safaris, we know how to craft unforgettable journeys based on the season. Here’s a guide to what makes September–October safari tours in Kenya so special, and why this window is ideal for both first-time and returning travelers.

The Great Migration: Still Going Strong

Although the mass river crossings typically peak in July and August, the wildebeest herds are still in the Masai Mara during September and early October. By this time:

• The herds are spread out across the Mara plains
• Predator activity is high  lions, cheetahs, and leopards are all on the hunt
• Occasional crossings still happen at the Mara and Talek Rivers
• Calmer conditions mean fewer crowds compared to peak months

This is a great time for those who want to witness the migration without the chaos of high-season tourism.

Prime Wildlife Viewing Everywhere

With dry weather continuing across the country, animals gather around waterholes and riverbanks, making them easier to find. Top destinations shine during these months:

• Amboseli: Spot elephants in front of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear mornings
• Samburu: Excellent for rare species like the Grevy’s zebra and gerenuk
• Laikipia & Lewa: Great rhino sightings and fewer visitors
• Tsavo East & West: Drier landscapes make wildlife easier to spot

The vegetation is sparse, so game viewing is exceptional especially for big cats and elephants.

Ideal Conditions for Photography

For wildlife photographers, September and October offer some of the best conditions:

• Golden light in the mornings and evenings
• Minimal dust compared to later in the dry season
• Fantastic opportunities to capture predator-prey interactions
• Scenic backdrops, especially in the Mara and Amboseli

Bring your zoom lenses and plenty of memory  these months are full of action.

Weather: Warm Days, Cool Nights

You’ll enjoy warm, sunny days with little to no rain ideal for long game drives. Nights and early mornings are cooler, especially in the highlands, so pack layers.

Average daytime highs range from 24–28°C (75–82°F) with comfortable humidity.

Travel Tips for September–October

• Book early ,while not as busy as July/August, top camps still fill quickly
• Consider private conservancies for exclusive sightings and added activities (like night drives and walking safaris)
• Pair your safari with a trip to the coast  Diani, Lamu, or Watamu offer sunny beach escapes in October before the short rains arrive

Plan Your Perfect Safari Season with Chacal Safaris

September and October offer a beautiful balance: the drama of the migration, the clarity of the dry season, and the magic of quieter camps and peaceful landscapes. At Chacal Safaris, we design seamless itineraries that put you in the right place at the right time with the wildlife front and center.

Kenya Safari Tours in June and July: What to Expect

If you’re planning a safari in Kenya, June and July are among the best months to visit. With cool, dry weather and the early stages of the Great Migration, this is when the bush starts to buzz with energy  and your chances of seeing wildlife in action dramatically increase.

At Chacal Safaris, we specialize in tailoring safaris to the season. Here’s what you can expect on a safari in Kenya during June and July   and why this could be the perfect time for your adventure.

Weather: Cool, Dry, and Comfortable

June marks the end of Kenya’s long rains, and by July, the country is well into the dry season.

Expect:

• Mild temperatures: Warm days (~20–26°C / 68–79°F) and cool nights
• Clear skies and minimal rainfall
• Greener landscapes in early June, turning drier and dustier by mid-July

This weather makes for ideal game-viewing conditions  animals are easier to spot as the vegetation thins, and roads are more accessible.

The Great Migration Begins

While the Great Wildebeest Migration is most famous for the river crossings in August, the action starts in late June and early July as herds begin arriving in the Masai Mara from the Serengeti in Tanzania.

What to expect:

• Massive herds of wildebeest and zebras flooding into the Mara
• Predator activity increases, especially lions, leopards, and hyenas
• The chance to see the first river crossings (usually by mid to late July)

Pro tip: Stay in private conservancies bordering the Mara for fewer crowds and excellent sightings.

Excellent Wildlife Viewing Across Kenya

• Even outside of the Mara, June and July are prime months for game viewing:
• Amboseli: Stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and large elephant herds
• Samburu: Clear skies and sightings of rare species like Grevy’s zebra and gerenuk
• Laikipia & Lewa: Cool mornings, walking safaris, and rhino spotting

Animals begin gathering near permanent water sources, making them easier to track and photograph.

Photography: Lighting and Landscapes

• If you’re into wildlife photography, June and July offer:
• Soft morning and evening light for golden-hour shots
• Dramatic skies before the full dry season dust kicks in
• Clean air and visibility, especially in highland areas like Laikipia
• Bring extra batteries and memory cards  you’ll need them.

Why Book Early

June and July fall into high season, especially with the migration drawing visitors from around the world. Popular camps in the Mara and Amboseli often fill up months in advance.

Booking early ensures:

• Your choice of top-rated lodges or tented camps
• Better flight options (especially bush flights)
• Access to limited experiences like hot air balloon safaris

Explore Kenya in Its Prime with Chacal Safaris

June and July are when Kenya begins to shine. With ideal weather, incredible wildlife, and the early rush of the Great Migration, it’s a perfect time for first-timers and seasoned safari-goers alike.

Let Chacal Safaris help you build the perfect itinerary for this season whether you’re chasing predators, photographing elephants, or watching wildebeest thunder across the plains.

Wildlife Conservation Efforts You Can Support in Kenya

Kenya’s world-renowned wildlife is the heartbeat of every safari ,from the powerful presence of elephants to the quiet beauty of a rare rhino in the wild. But behind every breathtaking sighting lies a deep and ongoing struggle to protect Kenya’s wildlife and natural habitats from poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict.

At Chacal Safaris, we believe that travel should benefit both the traveler and the places we visit. By supporting conservation-focused safaris and responsible tourism, you become part of the solution. Here are some of the most impactful wildlife conservation efforts in Kenya and how you can support them during your safari.

1. Ol Pejeta Conservancy – Protecting Rhinos

Located in Laikipia, Ol Pejeta is home to the last two northern white rhinos on Earth, as well as one of the largest populations of black rhinos in East Africa. It’s a model for combining tourism, conservation, and community development.

How to support:

• Visit Ol Pejeta on your safari
• Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the rhino enclosure
• Donate or adopt a rhino through their conservation programs

2. David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust – Orphaned Elephants Rescue

Based just outside Nairobi National Park, this organization rescues and rehabilitates orphaned elephants whose mothers were lost to poaching or human conflict. Many of these elephants are reintroduced to the wild in Tsavo.

How to support:

• Visit the Nairobi nursery for a viewing session
• Foster an orphaned elephant online
• Purchase handmade merchandise that funds rescue operations

3. Mara Predator Conservation Programme

The Masai Mara is one of the best places in the world to see big cats, but lions, cheetahs, and leopards still face threats from habitat loss and retaliation from local communities. This initiative monitors predators, reduces conflict, and works with local herders to promote coexistence.

How to support:

• Stay in Mara conservancies that fund this project
• Book safaris with guides trained by the program
• Attend a conservation talk during your stay

4. Lewa Wildlife Conservancy – Community-Based Conservation

Lewa is a leader in integrated conservation, protecting endangered species like Grevy’s zebra and black rhinos, while also investing in local education, water access, and women’s empowerment programs.

How to support:

• Visit Lewa as part of your safari itinerary
• Join a walking safari or horseback ride, where fees directly support conservation
• Donate to their community development programs

5. Community Conservancies – Tourism That Gives Back

Many areas in Kenya, like Namunyak, Naboisho, and Kalama, are community-managed conservancies where tourism funds are reinvested into local health, education, and conservation efforts. These places often offer incredible wildlife sightings with fewer crowds, making them ideal for eco-conscious travelers.

How to support:

• Choose to stay in conservancy lodges
• Hire local guides and rangers
• Respect cultural norms and ask before taking photos

Travel with Purpose, Safari with Chacal Safaris

Every safari booked through Chacal Safaris supports conservation-oriented partners across Kenya. We handpick lodges, conservancies, and experiences that align with our commitment to sustainable travel and wildlife protection.