Malindi and Watamu Safari Tours

Both countries offer incredible wildlife experiences year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season. In Kenya, this is usually from late June to October, while in Tanzania, the dry season spans from late June to October and also from late December to February. These periods coincide with the Great Migration and offer excellent game viewing.

Safaris are generally safe, especially when organized through a reputable tour operator like Natural World Kenya Safaris. Our safari Guides are well-trained to keep both guests and wildlife safe. As with any travel, it’s important to follow safety guidelines and stay informed about your surroundings.

Our standard safari travel & game viewing drive vehicle is a custom designed 4 x 4 Land Cruiser Jeep with  pop up top for ease of photography during game viewing drives and sightseeing. The vehicle sits a maximum of 6 persons for guarantee window seats and access to the pop up top.

View 4×4 Jeep photos https://www.naturaltoursandsafaris.com/4×4-land-cruiser-safari-jeeps/.

Our 4×4 safari Jeeps  are fitted with long range radios for easy communication, cooler boxes, and first aid kits .This is on top of the other extras in Jeep

The 4 x 4 Land Cruiser Jeep has several advantages on safari. These  includes a higher elevation, better navigation on rough terrain, deeper reach, more comfort and brings out better the African adventure experience.

As an extension  of our safari tour services , Natural world  provides free  return airport / hotel transfers for our guests  booked  a 3 days plus safari tour with us.

The transfers are provided even when you arrive or depart several  days before or after your safari start / end

In all cases , you shall share with us your arrival & departure flight details including airline codes and timings ,we shall in  return provide transfer driver name and telephone contact in advance of your arrival / departure

Our listed safari tours and advertised prices do not include Nairobi hotel stay

In case you are arriving in Nairobi earlier than your safari starting date or are intending to stay a few days more after safari finish ,you require a Nairobi hotel.

Nairobi has a wide range of hotels in economy ,comfort and luxury categories suitable for your 1 night or extended stay.

As part of your safari tour ,Natural world safari shall pick you up and drop you off at your respective Nairobi hotel or residence. This includes areas around Nairobi

We suggest that you look up and book online your favorite Nairobi hotel .In case you do require advise, suggestions or  booking assistance for your Nairobi hotel ,we shall be happy to assist.

We have put together a handy guide comparing all of Nairobi’s best hotels.

SAFARI LODGES

A safari lodge in Africa is located in a remote Wildlife area and is  made  up of a number of cottages / chalets spread over a landscaped land .Here shall be a main building which houses a restaurant, bar, gift shop together with the reception and also administration facilities. In most cases, there may  be a swimming room,

The lodge’s en-suite guestrooms are spread in smaller separate scattered cottages around the main central  building.

The atmosphere is usually rustic and compliments the natural surroundings while bringing in the essence of the wild

Safari lodges vary in size, unique design, location and standards with a nice range in economy , comfort and luxury category.

SAFARI CAMPS

The safari tented camps share some similarities with safari lodges in layout , purpose and location.

A tented camp is composed of the Main building (housing the public areas) usually thatched African style for effect .It may also be made of a large tent .The en-suite guest tents are scattered  around the main building providing a private feel.

The tented camp is a composition of large en-suite walk in tents which are built on a solid floor base and are complete with private bathrooms and a small terrace or veranda.

Essentially they are rooms with the exterior being canvas rather than wood or brick.

The tented camp complex may also have a swimming pool.

Tented camps range from the comfort, superior comfort, luxury to the super luxury.

Tipping in Kenya although not mandatory is expected after a good service.

All hotels, lodges and porterage gratuities are included on your safari price – this are collectively referred to as service charge.

Individual waiters, porters and other hotel service employees  may provide exemplary service and it is your discretion to decide to tip .Usually $ 1 -$ 5 per move or sitting is appropriate and appreciated.

It is however customary to tip your safari  driver / guide at the end of the safari tour. The amount is dependent on your evaluation of the quality of the service rendered. An average of $ 10 per guest per day or 5-10% of your (safari only cost ) is suggested . The amount is however  at your discretion, you are welcome to provide additional compensation to any staff who have provided special services. A bar gratuity of $1 is acceptable.

You may tip in Kenya shillings, USD or in Euro at the end of your safari / tour and preferably in an envelope.

There’s a quintessential safari look you may have seen in pictures and movies. It consists of khaki trousers, a light-colored shirt with a pocketed vest, a wide brim hat, and sturdy boots. This iconic look isn’t just for show; these items are essential for a comfortable safari experience. Your dream trip can be enhanced by packing some useful items and following a few valuable packing tips.

No more wondering about what to wear for a safari. We’ve put together this essential packing list and a couple of tips so you have the best experience on your Kenyan safari.

Kenya Safari Packing List

Almost all safari lodges / tented camp accommodations during your safari do provide free Wifi . These is in the three accommodation levels of economy , comfort and luxury

Wifi is provided  in the public areas of the safari lodges / tented camps  including the reception, dining areas and lounge . It is not provided in the individual rooms/ tents.

We provide free  Wifi in our 4×4 Safari jeeps with connectivity being at approximately 70% due to local Kenyan network coverage

A single room supplement is an extra fee imposed on single occupancy of a double/ shared  room by hotels, safari lodges and tented camps. Our safari tour prices are based on two persons sharing in a double room /tent.

If someone chooses to have  single occupancy of room, the single room supplement applies .Single room / tent extras are indicated on the price section of each tour package page.

The SGR train travel between Mombasa and Nairobi and now being extended to Near Lake Naivasha is the most recent and safest way to travel in Kenya.

It is also the most exotic means of travel between the Kenya interior and Kenya coast.

The train coaches are air conditioned and with wide windows for best scenic views.

From Nairobi to Mombasa and vise versa , the train meanders through the Tsavo West & Tsavo East.

It is absolutely safe for both passengers and luggage. . .

Best 360 degrees landscape views can be experienced from the restaurant car of the train.

Almost all safari tours operated by Natural World Kenya safaris are private per booking and are operated in own pop up top 4×4 jeep  with a dedicated tour driver / guide.

Guests booking with Natural world Kenya safaris can however form private groups to travel together as families or friends

We do not make tour groups from individual bookings for medium / long range safari tours .This is to allow foe flexibility,customization ,pace and choice of safari lodge / camp preference

The only exception is the short / small Nairobi Kenya group tours which  we operate on Tuesday ,Friday ,Saturday and Sunday of every week. Go to  https://www.naturaltoursandsafaris.com/group-safaris/

On our overnight  group sharing safari ,it is not possible to request for an extra day safari extension

This is because you  share your safari Jeep  with the other travelers on a seat in car basis .It also means that you leave and return to Nairobi as a group

It would thus require a unanimous decision to extend safari  from all tour participants for this to happen . It would also be subject to  the availability of extended accommodation in the respective tented camp / lodge.

An extra day on safari shall also require extra payment.

Prepare for adventure when you choose one of our   https://www.naturaltoursandsafaris.com/group-safaris/

Natural World has invested  in the employment  of among the best tour driver / guides

However we allow our guests to have that special preference for an individual driver / guide either from recommendation or online reviews.

If you prefer a specific safari tour driver / guide from our team ,we are happy to allocate him as your guide for the duration of your safari tour. This is however subject to his availability.

In case he is already requested for during the period of your planned safari tour ,you can always choose another driver / guide from our diverse team.

ELECTRONIC TRAVEL AUTHORITY (ETA) FOR KENYA

From 01st January 2024, travelers to Kenya will not require a Visa and will instead apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization. The ETA system has replaced the eVisa system for Kenya and is currently in effect.

Visit www.etakenya.go.ke to experience this seamless new system, effective from 4th January 2024. This applies to all international travelers, including children .Kenyan citizens and East African Community (EAC) partner states residents are exempted.

Travelers may submit their applications as early as 3 months prior to travel. It is recommended that travellers apply as soon as they have reserved their flight tickets and accommodations / tour packages in Kenya.

Your ETA Application Checklist:

• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned arrival date in Kenya and has one blank page.
• Photographic Identification: A recent passport-style photo or a clear selfie.
• Contact Essentials: Your email address and phone number.
• Travel Itinerary: Details of your arrival, departure, and where you’ll be staying in Kenya.
• Payment Method: A credit card, debit card, or Apple Pay ready to cover the $34.09 per person fee.

 Additional Requirements for Certain Travelers:

• Yellow Fever Certificate: Necessary if you’re arriving from a Yellow Fever-endemic country.
• Additional Vaccinations: Based on your travel history or country of residence.

Application Timeline: You can apply for your ETA up to 3 months before your planned arrival in Kenya.

What Happens After You Apply? Once you’ve submitted your application, look out for an email notification. Upon approval, you’ll receive an ETA receipt with a reference number, which you can use to check your application status on the ETA website.

Processing Time: It typically takes 3 working days to process your ETA.

Application Steps for Your Convenience:

1. Upload the information page of your passport.
2. Capture a selfie using your webcam.
3. Fill in your contact details.
4. Provide your arrival, departure, and accommodation details in Kenya.
5. Complete the general information section.
6. Make a customs declaration.
7. Complete the health declaration.
8. Provide your travel insurance information.
9. Upload your accommodation booking confirmation and flight ticket/confirmation.
10. Add any additional documents if required.
11. Agree to the terms and conditions.

Total Cost: The standard processing fee is $32.50, plus a bank fee of $1.59, Total = $34.09.

Benefits of Kenya’s eTA system:
Kenya eTA enables travelers to submit all relevant information and documentation from the comfort of their home locations before starting their trip. Travelers can enjoy peace of mind knowing that they meet the requirements for travel to Kenya.
Travelers do not need to fill out forms on the plane or at arrival anymore. Kenya’s eTA also benefits airlines by simplifying the check-in process. Transport carriers can easily verify that travelers have been authorized to travel by the Government of the Republic of Kenya and are in possession of an approved eTA. Kenya eTA will improve arrival processes into the Republic of Kenya by reducing the queues on arrival for health, customs, and immigration inspections. Kenya eTA supports the efforts of the Republic of Kenya to digitize its government processes.

What do I do if my eTA is denied: If your application has been denied, you will not be allowed to travel at this moment. Contact support@etakenya.go.ke to report your situation and obtain further details

Do Children or Infants also require the Kenya eTA? Yes, all foreign visitors must apply for an eTA. For children under the age of 18, the legal guardian, parent or accompanying adult is responsible for filling in the application. We highly recommend that families apply as a group.

What Information is Required for an eTA Application
Valid Passport
A recent passport picture OR a selfie picture taken during the application process
Contact details (home address, telephone, email).
Travel information and flight itinerary (arrival flight number, date of departure of initial flight in case of connecting flights).
Proof of booking for the hotel you will be staying at (if staying with friends, a letter of invitation is accepted).
Yellow fever vaccination certificate if coming from endemic countries (please check the WHO website for the updated list of countries).
Credit/Debit card information for payment, if applicable

Does an eTA Guarantee Permission to Travel? No. An eTA is permission from the Kenyan Government to travel to the Republic of Kenya and it is mandatory to present a valid eTA during the check-in and boarding process. However, travelers may still be denied boarding by the carrier if other required documents such as passports and/or boarding passes are not presented. In addition, travelers may be subjected to questioning at the point of departure or arrival. This might result in you being denied access to the means of transport.

What to do if my Means of Payment has been declined/refused For all visitors, the system will require a valid Credit or Debit card to make payment and complete the transaction. Cheques and cash are not accepted by the system. If the payment does not work, please wait a few minutes and try again, or check to make sure you have sufficient funds on your means of payment.

Our selection of  safari lodges and tented camps is well researched and offers the best in terms of comfort ,relaxation and atmosphere during safari. Each accommodation category is well catered for in the selection.

We fully understand the need for your protection against Mosquito  and other insect bites.

All rooms / tents during your  safari are fitted with mosquito nets or  are insect proofed to protect you against bites.

You are also advised to carry / use insect repellent to further protect yourself especially in the outdoors during evenings.

The maximum number of persons allowed in one room / tent are 3 , these can be accommodated in a double bed and a single bed or in 3 single beds.

Where 4 persons or more are travelling together and prefer stay in one room / tent  , we may book them in 2 rooms with interconnecting doors

For those that may prefer  to stay close as  family or friends , we may book them in adjacent tents / rooms

Some safari lodges / camps have family units for maximum of 4 persons only. This however includes an extra cost.

All safari rooms / tents are private with own bathroom / toilet

Your safari tour Jeep has a generous  luggage compartment at the rear and can comfortably carry 6 suitcases with an average 25 -30kgs each

You may carry hand luggage with your vital stuff inside the safari jeep.

We suggest that you pack / carry your luggage in soft sided suitcases for ease of storage in safari vehicle and also to minimize on friction and damage during the sometimes bumpy road safari trips.

In case you are booked on a Kenya fly -in safari and or you would consider taking local / domestic safari flights to the national parks / game reserves , there is a baggage allowance.

The baggage allowance for local domestic flights commuting between national parks is 15kgs excluding hand luggage

You may store extra luggage not required on safari at our Nairobi or Mombasa offices for free.

You may also choose to pay an extra $ 5 per kilogram for any extra baggage if you decide to carry all your baggage around with you (this is subject to flight / carrier capacity)

If you are booked on any of our Nairobi to Mombasa safaris ,you  shall catch the Nairobi to Mombasa SGR train at  Emali  ,Mtito Andei or Voi train stations this depending on your last national park visit.

Your first class train tickets shall have been booked and paid for in advance and you shall only need to print your travel ticket once at the respective train station

This takes only a few moments and your safari driver / guide shall be at hand to assist.

We have got you covered with the Nairobi – Mombasa Train Schedule.

Remember that we shall pick you up from the Mombasa train station and transfer you to your beach hotel in Mombasa . Diani ,Kilifi, Watamu or Malindi as part of the safari service.

Distances and driving times in Africa vary from the European and American concepts. In Kenya, roads are narrow and may not be well maintained. The roads immediately leading to the National Parks and Game Reserves are rough.

Please note that advertised  driving time on safari itineraries/programs on website are estimate and may vary depending on road conditions and road traffic.

Natural Tours operate a wide range of East African road safari holidays.

Our selection of Economy, comfort and luxury accommodation options for lodges and tented camps are sufficiently comfortable and adequate for relaxation  , overnights and meals. However standard of facilities ,style  and location are varied.

Luxury safari Lodges and Tented Camps

In almost all instances, luxury lodges & Tented camps  are located at vantage locations  within the national parks and game reserves. They are unique in architecture and design. They also provide easy access to the game viewing areas. The facilities and comfort levels are of higher standard. Rooms/, tents are private and en -suite. There shall most likely be a swimming pool in most of the luxury facilities

View luxury safari  lodge / camps category/options  https://www.naturaltoursandsafaris.com/kenya-safari-lodges/

Comfort safari  Lodges and Tented Camps

Comfort lodges and camps may be  located inside or just at the boundaries of the national parks and game reserves. Others may be slightly further .In all instances ,they are less than 30 minutes from the park entry gate . The facilities’ comfort levels are sufficiently adequate although slightly lower than for luxury accommodation level. The rooms and tents in this comfort level category  are also private and en suite. Most comfort  lodges / tented camps  shall have a swimming pool.

View comfort level safari lodges / tented camps https://www.naturaltoursandsafaris.com/kenya-safari-lodges/

Economy safari Lodges and Tented Camps

Almost all economy lodges and tented camps (except a few) are located outside of the National park boundaries and just next to the park. They are easy ,comfortable and sufficiently adequate for relaxation , overnight  and meals although relatively basic compared to the luxury and comfort options. Rooms and tents are private and have en -suite bathroom facilities. Most of the economy options  may also have a swimming pool.

View economy level safari lodges / tented campshttps://www.naturaltoursandsafaris.com/kenya-safari-lodges/

Natural World does not include  International flight costs  in our East African safari tour prices.

This is because Natural World is an inbound local Kenya tour operator and ground handling agency.

Local safari tour packages operated by Natural World start from Nairobi airport, Nairobi hotels, Mombasa airport and hotels, Diani beach resorts, Malindi / Watamu beach resorts,Naivasha area resorts, Kisumu, Nakuru, Arusha, Namanga, Taveta and Isebania border towns and from any other location in Kenya and East Africa