Trade the predictable chill of a British winter for the golden warmth of the Kenyan savanna. A Christmas Safari and New Year Holiday offers a unique opportunity to create lasting memories, observing wildlife within its natural habitat.
Kenya Safari Trails UK specialise in crafting exclusive festive journeys where every detail, from your celebratory sundowner to your private game drive, is meticulously arranged for a truly distinct end-of-year Christmas safari holidays.
Why Book a Festive Christmas Safari and New Year Holiday
Spending the festive season in Kenya provides exclusivity, perfect timing, and last minute new year holiday deals ready for booking. You will be immersed in the quiet beauty of the African wilderness, far from the usual holiday rush. The period from late December to early January is ideal; the 'short rains' have usually passed, leaving the scenery a vibrant green, the air crisp, and the dust settled.
This rich environment allows for exceptional photography and comfortable game viewing.
We handle all logistical aspects of your trip. Your journey is private and entirely bespoke, which means no crowded minibuses or rigid schedules. You travel with your family, in your private 4x4 Land Cruiser, with your expert guide, allowing you to set your own pace. We secure bookings at Kenya's most sought-after boutique lodges and tented camps well in advance.
This preparation guarantees you a serene and luxurious base for your activities, complete with special festive meals and thoughtful arrangements to make your Christmas or New Year's Eve memorable.
Costs of a Safari Over Christmas Season in Kenya
A safari over the Christmas and New Year period is a premium investment. Due to high demand for the best guides and exclusive properties, prices are higher than at other times of the year.
A private, all-inclusive luxury safari typically ranges from £6,000 to £10,000+ per person for a 7-10 day itinerary. This comprehensive cost covers the core components of your journey.
| Cost Component | Average Contribution to Total Cost | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation & Meals | 40% - 50% | Luxury lodges or tented camps, all meals (gourmet standard), and often all drinks (including alcohol). |
| Transport & Private Guide | 25% - 35% | Exclusive use of a 4x4 Land Cruiser, professional English-speaking safari guide, fuel, and internal flights. |
| Park & Conservation Fees | 10% - 15% | Mandatory daily entry fees for all national parks and conservancies, directly supporting wildlife protection. |
| Tips & Gratuities | 5% - 10% | Discretionary tips for your guide, lodge staff, and trackers who make your experience exceptional. |
Private Vehicle and Expert Guide
Your private vehicle and guide are central to the safari experience. You will have exclusive use of a custom-fitted 4x4 Land Cruiser, which provides comfort and unobstructed views.
Your professional guide is a qualified naturalist and an experienced host, trained to the highest standards to enhance your wildlife encounters and maintain your safety.
Lodges and All-Inclusive Services
We select intimate, eco-conscious properties that reflect their unique surroundings. You can expect spacious suites, attentive service, and well-chosen locations.
Your package is typically on an all-inclusive basis, covering gourmet meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients and a selection of premium wines, spirits, and other drinks. Festive dinners on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve are organised as special celebratory events.
Conservation and Park Fee Contributions
These mandatory fees are a direct and important contribution to the conservation of Kenya's natural habitats. The funds support anti-poaching units, wildlife research, and community initiatives.
By travelling with us, you actively participate in the preservation of the wilderness you are visiting.
A Typical Day on a Safari at Christmas in Kenya
Your days follow a rhythm set by the wildlife. Mornings begin with a wake-up call and fresh coffee before you head out at dawn, when predators are most active. You might spend hours tracking a pride of lions or observing a herd of elephants in the morning light. After a few hours, you return to the lodge for a full breakfast and time to relax by the pool or rest.
After a pleasant lunch, you will set off on an afternoon game drive, which ends with the safari ritual of a 'sundowner'— a gin and tonic as the sun sets over the savanna. Evenings are for relaxing over dinner and sharing stories around a campfire under the stars.
Christmas Season Weather in Kenya
This period offers one of the best opportunities for a safari. The weather is generally warm and sunny. The lush, green scenery provides a rich contrast for wildlife photography. The season is also excellent for birdwatching, as many migratory species are present.
| Month | Average Temperature | Scenery & Wildlife |
|---|---|---|
| December | 25-30°C | Lush and green after the 'short rains'. Many animals give birth, so nurseries of young plains game are common. Excellent light for photography. |
| January | 26-31°C | The scenery remains green and vibrant. Weather is typically dry and sunny. Wildlife is dispersed but plentiful and easy to spot. |
Booking Your Bespoke Holiday Safari
Planning your Christmas safari is a simple, collaborative process designed to create an itinerary that is perfectly suited to your requirements. The festive experience begins with the planning itself.
Step 1: Outline Your Requirements
Begin by visiting our custom safari planner. On this form, you can share your initial ideas, including who is travelling, your preferred dates, and what you would like to see and do. Supplying more detail helps us design a better initial proposal.
- Complete the planner form here: Plan Your Safari
Step 2: Itinerary Refinement
One of our Kenya specialists will contact you to discuss your ideas in detail. We will then design a first-draft proposal that includes a day-by-day itinerary and a transparent cost breakdown. We will refine this proposal with you until it meets all your expectations.
Step 3: Confirmation and Preparation
Once you are happy with the proposed itinerary, we will confirm all your arrangements via our communication channel. You will receive a comprehensive pre-departure information pack, ensuring you are fully prepared for your festive trip to Kenya. Finally, you can pack your bags and look forward to your holiday.