Create Lifelong Memories on a 10-Day December Family Kenya Safari & Beach Vacation

Overview of Create Lifelong Memories on a 10-Day December Family Kenya Safari & Beach Vacation

10 Days / 9 Nights Duration
Nairobi Location
£2,796.60 per person

This 10-day package is designed for UK families seeking a December safari and beach holiday in Kenya, aligning with the UK school Christmas period. It combines thrilling wildlife viewing in Kenya's savannahs, including the Maasai Mara, with a relaxing coastal stay at Diani Beach. The itinerary prioritizes ease of travel with internal flights and family-friendly accommodations. Activities are balanced between structured game drives and unstructured beach leisure.

Highlights of this Tour

✓ Family-focused itinerary for UK school Christmas holidays
✓ Safari in Maasai Mara National Reserve for prime wildlife viewing
✓ Relaxing beach stay at Diani Beach with calm waters
✓ Internal flights between safari and beach to minimize travel time
✓ Accommodations specifically chosen for family suitability and comfort
✓ Easy difficulty rating with adjustable game drive durations
✓ Opportunity to see elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, and diverse birdlife
✓ Festive atmosphere in lodges during December peak season

Itinerary and Where to Stay

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi & Hotel Transfer

Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, you will be met and transferred to your family-friendly hotel. Spend the remainder of the day relaxing and preparing for your safari adventure. Dinner will be served at the hotel.

Meals included on day 1

Dinner

Where you will sleep on day 1

Sarova Panafric Hotel

This is mid-range accommodation. You will sleep in Sarova Panafric Hotel.

The main destination you will visit on day 1

Nairobi National Park

Day 2: Fly to Maasai Mara & Afternoon Game Drive

After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Wilson Airport for a scenic internal flight to the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Upon arrival at the airstrip, your driver-guide will meet you for a transfer to your safari camp. Settle in, have lunch, and embark on your first exciting afternoon game drive in search of the 'Big Five' and other incredible wildlife.

Meals included on day 2

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Where you will sleep on day 2

Sarova Mara Game Camp

This is luxury accommodation. You will sleep in Sarova Mara Game Camp, or similar luxury accommodations in the same budget range .

Alama Camp Mara, Amani Mara Camp, and Andbeyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp .

The main destination you will visit on day 2

Masai Mara National Reserve

Day 3: Full Day Maasai Mara Safari

Spend a full day exploring the vast plains of the Maasai Mara with morning and afternoon game drives. December offers lush, green landscapes after the short rains, ideal for photography and spotting large herds of animals. Your guide will ensure game drives are paced to keep younger children engaged.

Meals included on day 3

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Where you will sleep on day 3

Sarova Mara Game Camp

This is luxury accommodation. You will sleep in Sarova Mara Game Camp, or similar luxury accommodations in the same budget range .

Alama Camp Mara, Amani Mara Camp, and Andbeyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp .

The main destination you will visit on day 3

Masai Mara National Reserve

Day 4: Maasai Mara Exploration & Optional Activities

Enjoy a final morning game drive in the Maasai Mara, soaking in the last moments of this incredible wilderness. You may also have the option to visit a local Maasai village (at an extra cost) to learn about their culture. The afternoon is free for relaxation at the camp, perhaps enjoying the swimming pool.

Meals included on day 4

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Where you will sleep on day 4

Sarova Mara Game Camp

This is luxury accommodation. You will sleep in Sarova Mara Game Camp, or similar luxury accommodations in the same budget range .

Alama Camp Mara, Amani Mara Camp, and Andbeyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp .

The main destination you will visit on day 4

Masai Mara National Reserve

Day 5: Fly to Diani Beach & Coastal Relaxation

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airstrip for your internal flight to the Kenyan coast, landing near Diani Beach. A private transfer will take you to your chosen beach resort. Spend the afternoon settling in and enjoying the pristine white sands and warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

Meals included on day 5

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Where you will sleep on day 5

Diani Sea Resort

This is mid-range accommodation. You will sleep in Diani Sea Resort, or similar mid-range accommodations in the same budget range .

Diani Sea Lodge, Neptune Village Beach Resort & Spa, and Southern Palms Beach Resort .

The main destination you will visit on day 5

Diani Beach

Day 6: Diani Beach Leisure & Water Activities

Enjoy a full day of leisure at Diani Beach. The calm, reef-protected waters are perfect for families to swim and play. You can relax by the resort pool, stroll along the beach, or partake in optional activities such as glass-bottom boat tours or snorkeling in the shallow lagoons.

Meals included on day 6

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Where you will sleep on day 6

Diani Sea Resort

This is mid-range accommodation. You will sleep in Diani Sea Resort, or similar mid-range accommodations in the same budget range .

Diani Sea Lodge, Neptune Village Beach Resort & Spa, and Southern Palms Beach Resort .

The main destination you will visit on day 6

Diani Beach

Day 7: Diani Beach Exploration & Family Fun

Another day to enjoy the beauty of Diani Beach at your own pace. The unstructured nature of the beach portion allows families to decide their activities. Continue to relax at the resort, build sandcastles, or explore more of the local area.

Meals included on day 7

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Where you will sleep on day 7

Diani Sea Resort

This is mid-range accommodation. You will sleep in Diani Sea Resort, or similar mid-range accommodations in the same budget range .

Diani Sea Lodge, Neptune Village Beach Resort & Spa, and Southern Palms Beach Resort .

The main destination you will visit on day 7

Diani Beach

Day 8: Diani Beach Free Day

Your fourth day at Diani Beach is completely free for you to decide. This flexible time ensures a truly relaxing end to your holiday after the excitement of the safari. Enjoy the facilities of your family-friendly resort or simply unwind on the beach.

Meals included on day 8

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Where you will sleep on day 8

Diani Sea Resort

This is mid-range accommodation. You will sleep in Diani Sea Resort, or similar mid-range accommodations in the same budget range .

Diani Sea Lodge, Neptune Village Beach Resort & Spa, and Southern Palms Beach Resort .

The main destination you will visit on day 8

Diani Beach

Day 9: Diani Beach Leisure & Farewell Dinner

Spend your final full day enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of Diani Beach. Take a last swim in the ocean or simply relax by the pool. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at your resort, reflecting on your memorable family holiday.

Meals included on day 9

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Where you will sleep on day 9

Diani Sea Resort

This is mid-range accommodation. You will sleep in Diani Sea Resort, or similar mid-range accommodations in the same budget range .

Diani Sea Lodge, Neptune Village Beach Resort & Spa, and Southern Palms Beach Resort .

The main destination you will visit on day 9

Diani Beach

Day 10: Departure from Nairobi

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the local airstrip for your internal flight back to Nairobi. Upon arrival at Wilson Airport, a private vehicle will transfer you to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your onward international flight from Nairobi, concluding your family holiday.

Meals included on day 10

Breakfast

The main destination you will visit on day 10

Nairobi National Park

What's Included

  • Ground transport as specified
  • Accommodation for 9 nights
  • Park entry fees
  • Meals as per itinerary

What's Not Included

  • International flights from the UK
  • Kenya eTA fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Festive season supplements (may apply)

Book This Package

Create Lifelong Memories on a 10-Day December Family Kenya Safari & Beach Vacation 10 Days / 9 Nights

Price per person
£2,796.60
($3,540.00 USD)
Book this package
Secure booking · Free cancellation

Quick Info

  • Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Starts: Nairobi
  • Ends: Nairobi

The December Family Kenya Safari & Beach Holiday is a pre-designed package for UK families. This itinerary combines wildlife viewing in Kenya's savannah reserves with a coastal stay on the Indian Ocean. The tour is structured for the UK school holiday period with a convenient Nairobi start and end point.

A base price of USD 3540.00 per person covers the specified ground transport, accommodation, park entry fees, and meals. This price foundation excludes international flights from the UK, Kenya eTA fees, travel insurance, and personal expenses.

December Family Kenya Safari & Beach Holiday Package Key Facts

Feature Description Notes for UK Families
Duration 10 Days / 9 Nights Fits within the UK school Christmas holiday period.
Route Nairobi – Nairobi Simplifies flight booking from LHR/LGW.
Focus Safari & Beach A balanced mix of activity and relaxation.
Difficulty Easy Internal flights reduce long drives.

Wildlife Families Should Expect on This Safari

The safari section of this holiday concentrates on Kenya’s major wildlife reserves, including the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Travel in December occurs after the 'short rains,' which results in green, dust-free conditions ideal for photography. The weather conditions at this time of year are favourable for wildlife spotting.

Key Animal Sightings

Game drives provide opportunities to see large mammals such as elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, and buffalo. December is also a peak month for birdwatching, as resident populations are supplemented by migratory species from Europe and northern Africa.

Family-Centred Game Drives

Our driver-guides conduct all game drives in 4x4 safari vehicles equipped with pop-up roofs for safe viewing. The guides adjust the duration and focus of each drive to maintain the engagement of younger children. The primary goal is to provide quality sightings and explain animal behaviour in an accessible way.

What Is the Beach Destination Like?

Following the safari, this itinerary includes a coastal stay at a destination such as Diani Beach. Diani is known for its white sand beaches and is protected by a coral reef, which creates calm water conditions suitable for families with children. The warm Indian Ocean water is safe for swimming and other water activities.

The beach portion of the holiday is unstructured, allowing families to set their own pace. Available activities include relaxing at the resort, swimming, or water-based excursions. Common options are glass-bottom boat tours and snorkelling within the shallow lagoons. This segment provides a period of rest after the safari's structured, early-morning schedule.

How Accommodation Caters for Families

All accommodation throughout this 10-day holiday is selected specifically for its suitability for families with children. Properties are chosen based on safety, comfort, and the availability of family-specific room configurations.

Safari Lodges and Tented Camps

On safari, families stay in lodges or tented camps that provide family rooms or interconnected tents. This rooming setup ensures children are close to their parents. Many safari properties also have swimming pools for recreation between game drives.

Coastal Beach Resorts

The beach resorts are chosen for their direct beach access and family-focused facilities. The selection of these experienced properties supports the itinerary's 'easy' difficulty rating by providing a secure and comfortable environment.

How Travel Logistics are Managed for Families

The holiday package operates on a Nairobi-to-Nairobi route to simplify UK flight planning. The itinerary moves from the safari parks to the coast, using an internal flight for the long-distance transfer. This logistical design minimises road travel time.

Using an internal flight instead of a full-day road journey is a key element for family comfort, especially for younger children. The flight significantly shortens the transfer time between the safari and beach locations. All ground transfers between airports, airstrips, and lodges are included and conducted in private vehicles.

What to Expect from a December Trip to Kenya

Weather and Environment

Travel to Kenya in December coincides with the end of the 'short rains' season. This timing results in green environments with less dust than during the main dry season. Any rainfall typically occurs in short afternoon showers, with clear conditions for the remainder of the day.

Visitor Numbers and Atmosphere

December is a peak travel month in Kenya due to the festive holidays. Travellers should anticipate higher visitor numbers in popular areas like the Maasai Mara. Many lodges offer a festive atmosphere during this period.

Booking and Supplements

Early booking is recommended to secure accommodation for December travel. A festive season supplement may apply for stays over Christmas and New-tide. Any applicable supplements are confirmed during the booking process.

Travel Requirements for UK Families

Flights from London

Direct, overnight flights to Nairobi (NBO) are available from London Heathrow (LHR) and Gatwick (LGW). An overnight flight helps to minimise disruption to children's sleep patterns and reduces the effects of jet lag upon arrival.

Kenya eTA and Health Precautions

All UK citizens, including infants and children, are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) online before travelling to Kenya. UK travellers should consult a GP or travel clinic at least eight weeks prior to departure to discuss required vaccinations and malaria prevention.

Recommended Packing List

A practical packing list should include items suitable for both the safari and beach environments. The following items are recommended for this family holiday.

  • Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing for safari drives.
  • A warm fleece or jacket for cool mornings and evenings.
  • Comfortable walking shoes and beach-appropriate sandals.
  • Swimwear, sun hats, and high-SPF sun cream.
  • Binoculars for each family member.
  • Insect repellent and a personal first-aid kit.
  • UK-style (Type G) plug adaptors and a portable power bank.

Why This Itinerary is Rated 'Easy' for Families

This itinerary carries an 'easy' difficulty rating because its components are structured to reduce travel fatigue for families. The package includes a balance of activities and scheduled downtime. The use of internal flights for long-distance transfers is the main factor contributing to this rating.

The pace of the itinerary is managed through several key features. Game drive durations can be adjusted to suit children's energy levels. The Nairobi-to-Nairobi routing simplifies international flight booking for UK travellers, as arrival and departure are from the same airport. The 10-day duration allows for a varied experience without a rushed schedule.

How to Customise This Family Holiday

This 10-day itinerary serves as a framework that can be modified to meet specific family requirements. Common adjustments include extending the beach stay, upgrading accommodation, or adding activities in private conservancies. Activities such as guided walks or night drives are subject to age restrictions.

Our specialists can alter this itinerary based on your family's interests, budget, and the ages of your children. All customisations are quoted transparently, detailing any change to the base price.

How to Book This December Family Holiday

December is a peak travel season, and demand for flights and family-friendly lodges is high. We recommend booking 9 to 12 months in advance to secure availability. This timeframe also provides sufficient time to organise Kenyan eTAs and any necessary health consultations in the UK.

Enquiries for this December Family Safari & Beach Holiday can be made using the form on the booking page. Our team will respond to confirm availability and provide details on the deposit and payment schedule. [Request a quote for your family safari]

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