Fresh from Kenya: Unedited Genuine Feelings and Travel Insights

Just got back from an incredible journey that set me back over 20k. I stayed up late to put together a detailed travel guide, and I genuinely recommend avoiding the summer vacation rush. January to April is truly the golden period! This short dry season in Kenya not only offers pleasant weather but also coincides with the birthing season for most herbivores. The trip was a delightful experience, filled with sightings of all sorts of adorable baby animals, making every moment truly unforgettable.

Now, direct flights from Changsha to Nairobi are available, with departures every Wednesday and Sunday. An 8-day trip is highly recommended, perfectly aligning with the flight schedule.
🎈Before embarking on my journey, I was torn between a free-and-easy trip or a group tour. After thorough research, I discovered that there’s no need to be indecisive.

Kenya’s national parks require visitors to have a guide, and solo safari hikes are not permitted. Joining a group tour is the most hassle-free option.
I strongly recommend choosing a 4×4 vehicle with one person per window; it truly enhances the experience!
📄Visa & Vaccinations
✅Kenya offers visa-free entry to many countries.

Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) at least three days in advance.
✅A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory.
✅Pack some common medications, but since mosquitoes are not a major issue, insect repellent should suffice.
🤔Group Tour or Free-and-Easy
The key to a successful safari is “people + vehicle.

” The driver’s reliability, the vehicle’s condition, and the driving skills are crucial. Group tour drivers are long-term partners with travel agencies and are highly experienced. A good guide is indispensable for finding animals and securing the best photography spots. If a driver isn’t up to par, the travel agency would have discontinued their services long ago.

With only a week to make the most of your trip, every exciting moment counts.
🗺️Itinerary (see the specific route in the image)
Day 1: Fly directly from Changsha to Nairobi, then head straight to Amboseli, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The scenery is absolutely stunning!

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Day 2: Amboseli – Naivasha, explore the Great Rift Valley, and take a walking tour of the reserve.
Day 3: Naivasha – Nakuru, a bird-watcher’s paradise, where you can spot flamingos, black rhinos, white rhinos, and many other rare species.
Day 4: Nakuru – Maasai Mara, along the way, marvel at the acacia trees and baobab trees, and the iconic Mara River.

Day 5: Spend the day in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve, a true haven for wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and more.
Day 6: Maasai Mara – Nairobi, take a city tour, visit Uhuru Park, the National Museum of Kenya, and the Nairobi Gallery, to immerse yourself in the rich history of Nairobi.

Day 7: Visit Nairobi National Park, where skyscrapers and leisurely wildlife coexist, creating a unique and unforgettable experience.
Day 8: Nairobi – Return home
💰Costs
The main expenses for the entire trip are divided into three parts:👇
– Approximately 10,000 RMB for airfare (China Southern Airlines)
– Around 10,000 RMB for the tour fee
– 100 USD for tips

For those planning a trip to Kenya, please refer to the last part of the image for important notes. If you have any questions, feel free to discuss them in the comments section~
Images from INS