Picture yourself standing in the middle of the African plains, gazing at a herd of wildebeests and zebras, feeling the sun on your skin as you take in the beauty of the majestic landscape around you. What a sight!
Such experiences could be expensive or achievable only by those with deep pockets, right? WRONG! With a little bit of planning and research, anyone can experience this adventure.
Discover how to travel on a budget in Kenya with these 10 tips. From finding affordable accommodations to exploring local markets, this guide covers you.
Introduction to Kenya
Are you looking for an out-of-this-world trip that won’t break the bank? Head to Kenya, one of the most beautiful countries in Africa! Kenya is a diverse destination for budget travelers, from its fantastic wildlife to its culture and breathtaking landscapes.
Not only is Kenya an affordable place to visit, but it’s also home to some of the world’s best safaris. Whether taking a game drive in the scenic Masai Mara or visiting the South Coast islands of Mombasa, you can experience one of the ultimate African adventures without breaking your bank balance.
However, there are specific tips and tricks to ensure you get the most out of your safari experience in Kenya while sticking to your budget. Read on as we share our top 10 tips for traveling on a budget in Kenya!
Accommodation Options on a Budget
If you want to experience the adventure of a lifetime in Kenya without breaking the bank, plenty of affordable accommodation options are available. From camping and glamping to budget hostels and homestays, you’ll be able to find something that fits your travel style without going over budget.
Here are some of the most popular budget lodging options in Kenya:
- Camping: Camping is a great way to get close to nature while reducing costs. With campsites scattered throughout Kenya’s national parks, you can find a spot within your budget that meets your needs.
- Glamping: Not feeling quite up for the camping vibes? Glamping—or glamorous camping—is a great alternative. Up your camping game by staying in a yurt or teepee with all the comforts of glamping, including electricity, running water and other amenities.
- Hostels: Budget hostels in Kenya offer basic accommodations at an even more basic price. Expect shared rooms, free Wi-Fi, and onsite cafes for your convenience!
- Home Stays: Homestays are another affordable lodging option in Kenya. Many homestays provide meals as part of their services, so you don’t have to worry about cooking while traveling.
Transportation around Kenya – Taking Local Flights, Busses &More
What’s the cheapest way to get around Kenya? Good question! Many transportation options exist, from airports and railways to buses and bikes. Depending on your budget and travel plans, you can opt for domestic flights, express busses, or even the good ol’ trains.
The cheapest option for getting around Kenya is generally by bus. Hundreds of Government-run express busses make regular stops in towns and cities, so you can quickly get on and off as needed. Traveling with a Kenyan-based operator can often save money on fares from international airlines.
If you’re looking for a more comfortable journey while still keeping costs reasonably low, an air safari is another great option. You don’t have to worry about getting lost in translation—small planes will fly you directly to your destination with the help of an expert local pilot.
One final option worth considering is car rental or carpooling. A few major rental companies operate in both cities and rural areas in Kenya, so if there’s a specific destination you want to reach but don’t want to take public transport, then renting a car might be the most convenient option. Carpooling is also becoming increasingly popular as young Kenyans have taken to sharing rides via social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp. So why not sit back and enjoy the scenery with some local company?
Exploring the Masai Mara on a Budget
In Kenya, a safari is one of the most popular and remarkable activities people look forward to. The Masai Mara National Reserve is ideal for an unforgettable safari experience. Here are some tips on exploring the Masai Mara on a budget:
- Opt for a shared tour with other travelers: Instead of private time, communicating with other travelers can reduce your costs significantly. You can find inexpensive tours such as our Masai mara safari and join the group with the lowest budget.
- Look for mid-range hotels instead of luxury ones: Staying in mid-range hotels near or around the reserve can save you money while still offering excellent service and value.
- Find an affordable transport option: You can get around quickly and cheaply in Kenya if you opt for buses and shared taxis over private ones.
- Consider camping in reserve: For an even lower price, camping in the reserve is an excellent option as long as you’re comfortable sleeping under the stars!
- Buy supplies before entering: Bring your snacks and drinks into the reserve to save money on food while you are there.
- Ask your driver about lesser-known spots: Experienced safari guides will be keen to show you where animals come to feed, which could be more cost-effective than visiting more popular locations within the reserve!
Suggested Itineraries for Budget Travelers in Kenya
Do you want to make the most of your visit to Kenya without breaking the bank? With some planning, you can explore the best of what the country offers while still sticking to your budget. Here are some suggested itineraries for budget travelers in Kenya:
Safari Itinerary
If you plan to go on a safari, there are many ways to do it on a budget. Start by choosing a less expensive destination — Masai Mara is known for its rich wildlife, which can be more costly than other parks. You can also save money by staying at campgrounds instead of traditional lodges and going on self-drive safaris. And since safaris usually take three days or more, buying multiple nights upfront will usually get you a better rate.
Beach Itinerary
Diani Beach is an excellent option if you’re looking for some beach time on your trip. You can save money by staying in guesthouses instead of resorts. Public transport, such as matatus (minibusses) along the Kenyan Coast, is much cheaper than taxis or private drivers. Plus, there’s so much to do in Diani – swimming, snorkeling, and exploring local markets – that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
Mountain Itinerary
For those who want to experience some high-altitude action in Kenya without emptying their wallet, Mt Kenya is an ideal stop. Start with an overnight stay at Nanyuki town before proceeding with transport provided by the Mountaineering Club of Kenya (MCK). You can also save money by bringing packed meals from home or buying food from local vendors outside MCK campsites.
Tips for Staying Safe in Kenya
When you travel to any foreign country, it pays to take some extra precautions. Kenya is undoubtedly no exception. Here are some tips to help you be safe during your stay:
Stay Smart
Be smart about where you stay and who you hang out with. If possible, stick to reputable lodgings, and avoid known rougher neighborhoods. If you’re meeting up with friends of friends, research a bit before committing to visit.
Watch Out for Pickpockets
Pickpockets can be found in touristy areas and crowded spaces like markets or busses. Keep your valuables close, wear a money belt if possible, and leave your flashy jewelry at home.
Be Careful When Driving
Driving in another country can sometimes be quite challenging! Ensure you know the local traffic laws and customs, as they may vary from what is typical in your home country. Avoid driving at night if possible, drive defensively, and watch for animals or pedestrians who may unexpectedly cross the road in front of you.
It’s also important to note that police may stop drivers for checking purposes, so always have your documents ready when driving in Kenya!
Sample Costs of a Kenyan Getaway on a Budget
Going on a Kenyan getaway can be incredibly exciting, but knowing the sample costs you might incur during your stay is essential. As with any holiday, there can be various costs depending on multiple factors.
Here are some sample costs you might encounter when traveling to Kenya on a budget:
- Hotel Accommodation: You can expect to pay between KES 3,000 and KES 5,000 ($30 and $50) per night for a private room in a guesthouse or backpacker hostel.
- Transportation Costs: Busses and matatus (minibus taxis) vary in cost depending on the distance you’re traveling but are known to be very affordable. A one-way ticket to Nairobi should cost no more than KES 250 ($2.50).
- Local Food and Drinks: You can get delicious local food for roughly KES 500 ($5) per meal. Drinks such as soda, water and beer are surprisingly cheap, with prices going for around KES 100 ($1) minimum.
- Safari Tours: Safari tours vary significantly in price, so be sure to do your research first. However, some budget options start around $60 per person.
Keep these sample costs in mind when planning your holiday in Kenya—the good news is that it is possible to experience unique journeys without blowing your budget!
How to Find Cheap Safari Deals
Kenya is a popular destination for safari enthusiasts, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some ways to find affordable safari deals in Kenya:
- Plan: Booking your safari in advance can help you secure early bird discounts and other promotional offers.
- Travel during the low season: The low season in Kenya typically runs from April to June and October to December. During this time, you can find cheaper safari deals as tour operators and lodges offer discounts to attract more visitors.
- Compare prices: Research and compare prices from different safari operators and lodges. You can find better deals by shopping around.
- Join a group tour: Group tours can be a cost-effective safari experience. You’ll share the costs of transportation and accommodation with other travelers, which can bring down the overall cost of your trip.
- Consider a budget safari: Budget safaris offer a more affordable alternative to luxury safari experiences. While the accommodations and amenities may be more basic, you can still enjoy an authentic safari experience without breaking the bank.
Following these tips, you can find cheap safari deals in Kenya and enjoy an unforgettable experience without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
In conclusion, visiting Kenya on a budget can be an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime experience. You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy all that Kenya has to offer – with a few tips and tricks and some research, you can find affordable accommodation and ways to see the country’s unique natural beauty on a budget. From Masai Mara to Lake Naivasha, Kenya is a destination gem; you don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy it. Happy travels!