Bargains on Kenyan Safaris

It's quite peaceful in Kenya right now, but the recent violence in the aftermath of Kenya's elections has really hurt the tourist industry. Many tourists changed their safari plans and decided to go to Tanzania instead. While the violence really didn't affect Kenya's tourist areas, the official Travel Warnings and news bulletins scared most people away from risking a vacation in Kenya. This left some of the more experienced travelers to enjoy Kenya's best parks all on their own.

Safari operators are now starting to offer some good deals to encourage visitors to re-consider Kenya. Game Watchers Safaris for example are offering a 6 night / 7 day Porini Wilderness Experience for US$1850 per person and an 8 night / 9 day Birds and Big Game safari for US$2299 per person. Prices include all domestic flights, meals, accommodations, park fees and Maasai guided walks.

ToKenya.com is offering all kinds of bargains as well as discounted flights. Safaris that coincide with the Great Annual Migration are normally filled up by this time of year, but there's still space available now.

The Times newspaper in England has a list of some of the best discounted deals on safaris and beach holidays available to tourists leaving from England. Some of the lodge discounts can obviously be used by all tourists (not just those in the UK).

Alternatively, Frommers suggests getting on a flight to Kenya and then bargaining for a last minute safari spot upon arrival. Here's a list of tourism operators in Kenya you can contact.

What's the weather like this time of year in Kenya? A little wet in May, but June is dry, sunny and perfect for a safari. By July, the Masai Mara will begin to fill up with millions of wildebeest, zebra and other antelope.

_{Cheetah on safari in Kenya -- ©David Hutchinson}