Two Weeks In Kenya: The Perfect Itinerary To Explore The Jewel Of Africa

Discover the very best of Kenya with this two week itinerary.

Kenya, a land of unique natural wonders and vibrant cultures, beckons travellers from around the globe. As a Kenyan myself it’s hard not to write about this tropical paradise without pride, but I think many who make the worthwhile visit would agree my love for this country is natural and expected. As travellers explore the vast plains of the Maasai Mara, drive around the bustling streets of Nairobi and unwind in the warmth of the surrounding Indian Ocean, the unbelievable attractions and experiences on display mean spending two weeks (or more!) here will fly by in a daze of endless beauty and adventure. 

It might be a little farfetched for me to claim Kenya as the heartbeat of African tourism, but it’s definitely a hotspot. Whenever someone asks me where to go if it’s their first time making a trip to the continent, you can be certain Kenya is the first name to pop into my head. Read on to find out why.

Karibu!

Summary Of Visiting Kenya In Two Weeks

Below is a break down of a two week itinerary for exploring Kenya.
Locations: Nairobi (days 1-3), Naivasha (days 3-4), Masaai Mara (days 4-7), Diani (days 7-10), Nairobi (days 10-13)

• Begin your trip by landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi and spend two nights in the capital marvelling at unique natural and cultural attractions. 
• Next, take the 2.5-hour drive from Nairobi to explore Naivasha. Spend a night here to enjoy the serenity of a lush waterfront setting.
• Then, drive 4 hours down to Maasai Mara and spend 3 nights in pure safari paradise.
• Take a short flight from Maasai Mara to Diani, Kenya’s beloved coastal town, to relish the sun and sand.
• Fly back to Nairobi for a few more adventures.

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Travel and Accommodation In Kenya

Kenya is not necessarily a budget-friendly holiday destination. Between the costs of travel and safari packages, you will need to save up a couple thousand pounds to explore the country comfortably. However, that does not mean it’s impossible. 

Plan a mix of road trips and flights to save money and time, and find a balance between mid-range and luxury accommodations to fit your budget. Trust me, there is much to choose from.

Accommodation Recommendations In Nairobi:

• Mid-range: Best Western Plus Meridian Hotel and Holiday Inn Nairobi 
• Luxury: Villa Rosa Kempinski and DoubleTree by Hilton

Accommodation Recommendations In Naivasha:

• Mid-range: Lake Naivasha Crescent Camp
• Luxury: Lake Naivasha Simba Lodge, Enashipai Resort & Spa and Gift Valley Lodge and Golf Course 

Accommodation Recommendations In Maasai Mara:

• Mid-range: Ashnil Mara Camp and Fig Tree Camp
• Luxury: Mara Intrepids Tented Camp and Olarro Plains

Accommodation Recommendations In Diani:

• Mid-range: Swahili Beach and Diamonds Leisure Beach and Golf Course 
• Luxury: The Sands at Nomad and The Zubeida Boutique Resort

Figuring Out Your Itinerary For Exploring Kenya In Two Weeks

NAIROBI (2 nights)

The capital Nairobi, is a collection of cosmopolitan life, cultural beats and natural splendour that merge to form fascinating city with so much to discover. 

Nairobi National Park

Kenya’s most accessible yet incongruous safari experience lies on the southern outskirts of the country’s capital. At 117 km², Nairobi National Park is the smallest of its kind in Africa, the oldest national park in Kenya, and the only one in the world within city limits. There is something quite special about driving through the savanna with the city skyline in the background.

Giraffe Centre 

Located near Nairobi National Park, the incredible Giraffe Centre is a favourite for both locals and tourists – which is also why you’ll find it on every itinerary about Kenya. Here, you come face to face with endangered Rothschild’s giraffes, and while providing conservation education, the raised platform also allows you to feed the giraffes at eye level and get a kiss.

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

Any local would tell you that if there is only one thing you do in the city; it should be this. The institution has been caring for and rehabilitating baby elephants since the late 1970s. Most of the elephants at the sanctuary are rescued after being orphaned at an age where they cannot survive alone. Once they are old enough, the elephants are released back into the wild. During visiting hours, people are allowed to observe the elephants as they are fed and hear about the trust’s work. You can also “adopt an elephant” to support the incredible work the trust conducts.

The Nairobi National Museum 

The museum displays various cultural and natural history exhibits including fossils from Lake Turkana and ethnic displays from Kenyan tribal groups. There is also a Snake Park ready for exploration by those who dare with Kenya’s most common reptiles.

Bomas of Kenya 

The Bomas of Kenya is a little tourist village providing insight into the traditional Kenyan lifestyles. The project was set up to preserve Kenyan culture by educating visitors through performances and exhibitions. 

NAIVASHA (1 night)

Escape the hustle and bustle of Nairobi and head northwest to the serene town of Naivasha, nestled by the tranquil waters of Lake Naivasha. Spend a night soaking in the beauty of the lake, embark on a boat ride to spot diverse birdlife, and take a stroll through Crescent Island, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. 

Don’t miss the chance to explore Hell’s Gate National Park, famous for its towering cliffs and scenic landscapes. Here, you can ride bikes through kilometres of savanna and hike through deep, hot-spring gorges – however, the latter experience is getting close to shutting down due to geographical shits. 

MAASAI MARA (3 nights)

One of the most famous natural attractions in the world is the Maasai Mara. Famed for the great wildebeest migration that takes place across the rivers between Mara (Kenya) and Serengeti (Tanzania) in June and October each year, the gently rolling grasslands highlighted by flat-topped acacia trees and trampled by massive herds of zebras and wildebeest, are the heart and soul of the African Safari experience. 

It is here where your dreams live up to reality, as the picturesque setting is a paradise for the Maasai communities and wildlife – having the highest concentrations of the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) on the continent. Naturally, this is also the perfect place to partake in a hot air balloon ride over the savannah. 

In all its glory, a visit to Maasai Mara National Park is quintessential to your Kenyan itinerary.

Discover how to plan an affordable African Safari here

DIANI (3 nights)

No itinerary for exploring Kenya is complete without a seaside adventure. After the thrill of the safari, unwind on the sun-kissed beaches of Diani, Kenya’s beloved coastal town. Sink your toes into the soft sand, take a dip in the azure waters, and soak up the laid-back coastal vibe. Explore the vibrant coral reefs with snorkelling or diving excursions, or simply relax and rejuvenate under the swaying palms.

You can read more about things to do in Diani here.

NAIROBI (3 nights)

Bid farewell to the coastal paradise and return to Nairobi for the final leg of your journey. I personally don’t think a trip to Kenya is complete without a hike and appreciating what the nation is most famous for – its tea. 

Mt Longonot

Due to time constraints, climbing Mt Kenya would be impossible. However, the next best option is to embark on a thrilling journey to Mt Longonot National Park, where you can climb to the summit of the extinct volcano and trek around its crater for breathtaking perspectives of the surrounding Kenyan landscape. This underrated day trip from Nairobi is perfect for those looking for a mix of adventure and awe-inspiring scenery but without the early wake-up calls and tough inclines.

Limuru Tea Farms 

Limuru, known for its vast tea plantations, delightful waterfall hikes and cool climate, is a charming town perfect for a day trip. While not every itinerary for Kenya would include this, spending time discovering the history of Kenyan tea – or chai as it is known in Swahili – and understanding why the region’s geography contributes to the perfection of the drink is a must.

The most popular estate here is Kiambethu Tea Farm. Here, visitors are blessed with tranquil terrain, delicious drinks, and tea-picking adventures while learning about the tea processing and production that’s been taking place here for nearly a century. 

Pair this unique experience with something more active by cycling and horse-riding on the grounds, and drive a little further away to Limuru Waterfall for a short hike and picnic. 

Maasai Markets 

The beautiful Maasai Markets are found around the city, selling everything from jewellery and bags to wooden carvings and utensils. Visiting the markets provides the perfect opportunity to buy gifts and souvenirs and support the local talents. Personally, I think the best one is found at Village Market – one of the local malls. 

Don’t forget to bring your negotiating skills, and if you know Swahili, all the better!

Average Cost For Two Weeks In Kenya Per Person

Transport (local travel): approx £1000 

Accommodation: £1500 – £4000 per person

Attractions: £300 – £1000 per person (this often depends on whether you’re a Kenya Citizen/Resident or Non-Kenyan, especially for safari packages, so it’s difficult to gauge) 

Food and amenities: N/A

Practical Information About Kenya

Location: East Africa

National Language: Swahili

Currency: Kenyan Shilling 

Neighbouring Countries: Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia