Safari and beach - in whichever order suits you
Big cats, elephants and rhino, then the warm sand of Kenya's coast. Or the reverse. Three route options, any beach town, any pace.
Three ways to combine safari and beach
Nairobi → Parks → Beach
Start in Nairobi, safari through the parks of your choice, then finish relaxing on the coast.
See this routeBeach → Parks → Beach
Base yourself on the coast, safari out and back, and return to the same resort to unwind.
See this routeBeach → Parks → Nairobi
Start relaxed at the coast, safari through the parks, and finish in Nairobi for onward travel.
See this route
Safari first, or beach first?
Safari first gives you fresh energy for early game drives, then a relaxing beach finish to unwind and reflect. Many photographers and wildlife-focused travellers prefer this order.
Beach first lets you recover from your flight and adjust to the time zone before the early starts a safari demands. Either order works - tell us your preference and we'll build the itinerary around it.
Diani, Mombasa or Malindi?
Diani Beach
South coast, closest to Shimba Hills and Tsavo East. Quiet, low-rise resorts and a barrier reef for calm swimming.
Mombasa
Kenya's second city - history at Fort Jesus and Old Town, plus a major transport hub simplifying logistics.
Malindi
North of Mombasa, with its own marine park and closer access to Tsavo and Meru National Parks.
Visit one, or see them all
June to October is best for both
The dry season suits safari and beach equally well - clear skies, easier wildlife viewing, and the Great Migration in the Masai Mara from July.
November and December (short rains) are quieter and better value, with lush green landscapes and only brief showers.
Safari and beach holidays - your questions answered
Should I do safari before or after Diani Beach?
Either works well. Safari first keeps your energy fresh for early game drives; beach first helps you recover from your flight before the early starts. Tell us your preference.
Which coastal town is the best base?
Diani suits quiet, reef-protected beaches close to Shimba Hills and Tsavo East. Mombasa offers history and better transport links. Malindi is closer to Tsavo and Meru National Parks.
What's the best time of year for a combined trip?
June to October offers the best conditions for both safari and beach, including the Great Migration from July. November-December is quieter and better value, with occasional short showers.
What should I pack for both safari and beach?
Neutral-coloured lightweight clothing, a hat and closed shoes for safari, plus swimwear, sunscreen and a beach cover-up for the coast. Versatile, layerable pieces work best for both.
Which parks can I combine with a beach holiday?
Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo East and West are the core options, with Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, Hell's Gate, Samburu and several conservancies available on longer itineraries.
Can I customise which route I take?
Yes - choose Nairobi-to-beach, beach-to-beach, or beach-to-Nairobi, and tell us your preferred parks and pace. We'll build the itinerary around it.