It is said, happy people travel more often. The reverse is also true. People who travel more often are happier. And if you want to be on top of the happiness quotient, your bucket list must include Kenya as a defining destination.
The jewel of East Africa, Kenya boasts of incredible wildlife, stunning landscapes and diverse cultures. So whatever you seek – adventure, relaxation, cultural experiences – Kenya calls. And how. We have some premium Kenya tour packages from Kolkata for you. But more about that later. First, let’s go explore this magical land of white mountains and gorgeous grasslands.
First, the wildlife. If you talk about game reserves, Kenya is probably numero uno. Masai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park and Tsavo National Park are globally renowned. But they are one among many. These parks are home to Africa’s Big Five – lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and African buffaloes, not to mention crocodiles, zebras, deer, giraffes and wildebeests. Imagine yourself driving through miles and miles of grasslands, alongside lakes and rain-fed rivers, around bushlands and acacia dry forests, amidst glorious sunrises and mellow orange sunsets. Add to it the thrill of watching these glorious animals up close in their natural habitat. Legends are made of these. So are indelible travel experiences.
The word Kenya is derived from `Kirinyaga’ or `Keranyaga’. The Kikuyu people who lived around present-day Mount Kenya referred to the place by this name, meaning ‘mountain of whiteness‘ because of its snow-capped peak. That basically implies once you are done with the game parks, you also have some amazing mountains to visit.
Then there are absolute deserts like Chalbi Desert and Nyiri Desert, the Great Rift Valley and the Indian Ocean stretching from Lamu to Mombasa. Well, you will be spoilt for choice. If you like to top it up with an element of surprise, a visit to Lake Nakuru National Park is a must. Where else will you find thousands of flamingos in attendance, flocking to the lake to feed on its algae. Instagram was invented for them.
It is a fact that elephants can run but they cannot jump. Their human neighbours who live in close proximity, the famed Maasai tribe can do both and do that very well. Experience their jumping dance to find out. Though the Maasai are probably the best known amongst Kenyan tribes, there are several others that add to the Kenyan kaleidoscope. Despite there being 13 ethnic groups and 27 smaller groups, the majority of Kenyans belong to ‘Bantu’ tribes such as the Kikuyu, Luhya and Kamba. There are also the ‘Nilotic’ tribes like the Luo, Kalenjin, Maasai and Turkana. Their unique customs and traditions hold a mystic charm all their own.
As is famously said, any time is a good time for a visit but if you are planning to catch the wildlife en masse, no better time than the dry season, which runs from June to October. The weather is pleasant and the wildlife is easier to spot, as they gather around watering holes. The vegetation is also sparse, providing better visibility.
There is wildlife and a wild life, if you get the drift. And for that there are no ‘dry’ seasons. There is more and enough that a visitor can do in Kenya the year round. Here is a list of exciting things to do. We, at Flying Squirrel Holidays, have a few recommendations. A curated vacation, if you will. Season-specific - dry and wet. Take your pick.
Safari in Masai Mara National Reserve: It is one of those lifetime things. The dry season is the best time to go on a safari in Masai Mara National Reserve. The wildlife is abundant. Visibility is high. Lions, elephants, giraffes, leopards, buffaloes, crocodiles, zebras. And that list is almost endless… You can also witness the Great Wildebeest Migration that happens between July and October. Memorable is a mild descriptor.
Hot air balloon ride: One heck of a ride, it takes you over the Masai Mara plains for a bird's eye view of the wildlife and landscapes. You get to do this early in the morning. Just as well. So that you can cherish it for the rest of the day. And the rest of your life.
Beach holiday in Diani: Diani Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand best experienced with your significant other. Relax. Indulge. Romance. The dry season offers warm and sunny weather ideal for swimming in the Indian Ocean, sunbathing, water sports and taking leisurely walks on the beach. Not to mention the breath-taking sunrises and sunsets!
Climb Mount Kenya: Mount Kenya is the second-highest mountain in Africa and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The dry season beckons with dry trails easier to climb. An ideal combination of adventure and exploration.
Explore Lake Nakuru National Park: The wet season is a great time to visit Lake Nakuru National Park, which is home to an abundance of birdlife including flamingos, pelicans, and cormorants. You can also spot animals likes buffalos, giraffes, and rhinos. Go ahead, create your own picture postcard!
Linger in Lamu: Pretty and picturesque. That is the best way to describe Lamu, a beautiful town on the Kenyan coast that is famous for its Swahili architecture, narrow alleys and traditional dhow boats. The wet season is a great time to visit as the town is less crowded, and the rains create a lush green landscape. This place is waiting to be discovered by Karan Johar. Or Mani Ratnam. Get there before they do.
Meet the Maasai: The Gods certainly aren’t crazy. For they made the Maasai. Popular myth and culture have spread the fame of this semi-nomadic, pastoral tribe of brave warriors far and wide. Not for nothing. Their ancient, primordial lifestyle, cabalistic rituals, high-jumping dance and ornate costumes have fuelled a library of books and countless films. Myth meets magic here.
Tame the Tana: The wet season is the best time to go white water rafting in the Tana River. The thrill of the rapids and the captivating beauty of the surroundings make for an unbeatable combination. The right place for your adrenaline rush.
Budget Package: A budget package for a 7-day Kenya tour can cost around INR 60,000 to INR 80,000 per person. This package would include accommodation in budget hotels, basic meals and transportation for a safari tour in Masai Mara National Reserve.
Standard Package: A standard package for a 7-day Kenya tour can cost around INR 1,00,000 to INR 1,50,000 per person. This package would include accommodation in mid-range hotels, meals, transportation and a safari tour in Masai Mara National Reserve.
Luxury Package: A luxury package for a 7-day Kenya tour package from Kolkata can cost around INR 2,50,000 to INR 4,00,000 per person. This package would include accommodation in high-end lodges or resorts, meals, transportation and a safari tour in Masai Mara National Reserve, as well as other activities such as hot air balloon rides, spa treatments and cultural experiences.
It is important to note that these are estimated costs and can vary according to season and other factors. Additionally, some packages may not include airfare or visa fees. We, at Flying Squirrel Holidays, will make sure your dream vacation is not constrained by your budget.
To reach Kenya from Kolkata, you will need to take a flight with layovers as there are no direct flights available. Here is how you get there:
You can choose a major airline that offers flights from Kolkata to Nairobi, Kenya. Some popular airlines that operate flights on this route include Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways and Kenya Airways.
We will help you check the flight schedule and prices to find the most convenient and affordable options for you. Flight prices can vary depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book.
Book your flight online or we would be happy to get it for you. We will double-check your flight details, including departure and arrival times, layovers and baggage allowance, so that you can travel without a worry.
We can also help you with obtaining a Kenyan visa if required. Indian citizens need a visa to enter Kenya, which can be obtained online or at the Kenyan embassy in Kolkata. We will help you with the visa requirements and processing time well ahead of your trip.
Prepare for your trip by packing appropriate clothing, travel documents and any necessary medications or vaccinations. Kenya is a tropical country, so lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, especially during the hot and humid months.
Plan for layovers: As there are no direct flights available, you will likely have layovers in other countries before reaching Kenya. Make sure to plan your itinerary accordingly and factor in enough time for any layovers or connecting flights.
Stay hydrated: The long flights and dry airplane air can lead to dehydration, so make sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight.
Take precautions against malaria: Kenya is a malaria-endemic country, so it is important to take precautions against mosquito bites by wearing long-sleeved clothing, using insect repellent, and sleeping under a mosquito net.
Respect local customs and culture: Kenya is a diverse country with many different ethnic groups and cultures. Be respectful of local customs and traditions and ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their property.
By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable journey from Kolkata to Kenya.
We would love to tailor-make your Kenya holiday. Before we do that, here is a sampler that combines an exploration of Kenya's natural wonders and cultural heritage. Every day a new adventure. Every place an indelible experience. Take a look. It will help you decide on your own bucket list.
Day 1-2: Nairobi
The let’s get going days. Arrive in Nairobi and spend your first day acclimating to the city's vibrant atmosphere. Visit the Nairobi National Museum to learn more about Kenya's rich cultural history or explore the colorful markets of the city, the Maasai Market for instance. Spend your second day exploring the Giraffe Center, where you can get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures, and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where you can see baby elephants up close. We are getting you primed for the next adventure.
Day 3-5: Masai Mara National Reserve
This is where the explorer in you takes over. Reach Masai Mara National Reserve, where you will spend the next three days exploring one of Africa's most famous wildlife reserves. Take daily game drives to witness the Big Five animals, including lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos. Enjoy sundowner cocktails in the evenings, watching the sun set over the savannah. Surreal. Time to get blogging. Or Vlogging.
Day 6-8: Amboseli National Park
The adventure continues. Travel by air to Amboseli National Park, which is located at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain. Enjoy game drives through the park, where you will have the chance to see large herds of elephants and other wildlife. Take a guided nature walk with a Maasai guide to learn more about the local flora and fauna, and visit a Maasai village to experience their traditional way of life.
Day 9-10: Lake Nakuru National Park
And there is more in store for you. Catch a flight to Lake Nakuru National Park, which is known for its abundant birdlife, including thousands of pink flamingos. Take game drives around the lake, where you can spot a wide variety of wildlife, including baboons, waterbucks and Rothschild's giraffes.
Day 11-12: Lamu Island
You will love being stranded here. Fly to the beautiful Lamu Island, where you can relax on pristine beaches and explore the island's unique Swahili culture. Take a dhow cruise around the island, visit the Lamu Museum or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. Did we hear you say, cheers!
Day 13: Departure. Or, is it?
Well, time for goodbyes. Fly back to Nairobi for your departure flight or extend your stay to explore more of Kenya's incredible attractions. Isn’t that a nice thought?
We have a simple answer to that question. Because we understand you, not just your travel needs. Your need to balance adventure with safety. Your search for the unknown and the familiar. Balancing luxury with value for money. Matching your own expectations with expert advice. The desire to be left alone yet have help always ready at hand. Most importantly, your expectation of a dream vacation. And a reliable vacation planner.
We deliver all that and much more.
At Flying Squirrel Holidays, we promise the unforgettable. And deliver each time. And no better destination than Kenya to keep that promise.
Our Kenya tour package from Kolkata brings you:
Tailor-made itinerary: We know that every traveller is unique, which is why we offer customized itineraries that are tailored to your specific needs and preferences. Our team of expert travel planners will work with you to create a personalized itinerary that includes all the destinations and experiences that you want in Kenya.
Luxury accommodation: We understand that luxury and comfort are essential for a truly memorable travel experience. That's why we offer only the finest accommodations in Kenya, including high-end lodges, luxury tented camps and exclusive resorts. Our accommodations are carefully selected to offer the best possible views, amenities and service.
Expert guides: Our Kenya tour package includes the services of knowledgeable and experienced guides who are passionate about the country, its people and its wildlife. Their love for the country translates into an immersive experience for you.
Cultural experiences: Time stands still in Kenya. It is home to many diverse ethnic groups, each with its own unique centuries-old culture and traditions. Our Kenya tour package includes visits to local villages and communities, where you can interact with the local populace, learn about their way of life and participate in their cultural activities.
Hassle-free travel: We take care of all the details of your trip, including transportation, accommodation, meals and activities. While you enjoy your holiday, we enjoy putting it together. Seamlessly.
Feel at home: At Flying Squirrel Holidays, we make sure you stay at high-end lodges and resorts that offer exceptional service, indulgent amenities and top-notch facilities. They are located in beautiful natural settings and offer a fulfilling range of activities like game drives, guided walks, spa treatments and fine-dining experiences. We recommend the Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, Angama Mara at Masai Mara, Tortilis Camp at Amboseli and the stunning Ocean Beach Resort and Spa on Lamu Island. There are plenty more options. We look forward to sharing names and details with you.
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