When planning a safari in Kenya, consider the type of accommodation as it influences your experience. Some travelers prefer smaller, more intimate camps like Elephant Pepper Camp for a less crowded and more personal wildlife experience. Others opt for larger camps like Mara Intrepids, known for their comprehensive facilities including pools and cultural presentations.

Decide on the mix of activities available, such as night drives, bush meals, and hikes, typically offered in conservancies rather than reserves. Also, consider visiting both a reserve and a conservancy to balance cost and experience, as suggested by some travelers who split their stay between different types of accommodations to reduce costs while still enjoying diverse activities.

Check if transfers between camps are included in your package to avoid unexpected costs, which can be high. Some travelers recommended verifying transfer costs as they can significantly impact your budget. Additionally, using a safari planner might help in accessing better rates and handling logistics, ensuring a smoother experience, especially for first-timers.

Plan your travel dates around specific wildlife events, like the great migration in the Masai Mara, to enhance your viewing opportunities. The timing of your visit can greatly affect what you see, with certain months offering better chances for specific wildlife sightings.

According to forum posts, travelers need to apply for a Kenyan visa online via the official eVisa website (https://evisa.go.ke). The application requires a fee of approximately $50 USD plus credit card charges. The visa typically takes 1 to 3 days to process once the application is complete.

Travelers have mentioned the need for various documents upon entering Kenya, which include a printed copy of the eVisa, a health declaration form, a certificate of COVID-19 vaccination, and a negative PCR test conducted within 72 hours before departure. These documents should be uploaded to Globalhaven.org, and a QR code from this site must be printed and presented.

Some users have discussed difficulties in obtaining a multiple-entry visa through the online portal, often being prompted to apply for a single-entry visa instead. For travel between Kenya and Tanzania, a single-entry visa generally suffices due to an agreement within the East African Community, allowing re-entry into Kenya from Tanzania.

According to forum posts, several travelers recommend the Fairview Hotel for its ambiance and garden settings, ideal for relaxation before a safari. The Four Points by Sheraton, Crowne Plaza, and Hilton Garden Inn are frequently mentioned for their proximity to the airport, making them suitable for late arrivals or early departures.

For those considering serviced apartments, Yaya Apartments and the Norfolk Tower Serviced Apartments have been highlighted. However, budget constraints have pushed some users towards Airbnb options, particularly in areas like Westlands and Karen, known for safety and amenities.

Travelers have called out Westlands as a preferred area due to its access to shops, bars, and restaurants. Safety and convenience in this upscale area come at a higher price, with accommodations typically ranging from $100 to $120 per night during peak seasons.

Several car hire companies in Nairobi are recommended by travelers. Central Car Hire is frequently mentioned for its reliable service and offer of vehicles like the Prado, Landcruiser, Hilux, and Pajero. Tough Trucks is another option, known for providing a Rav 4 starting from $100 per day. However, it's noted that smaller 4x4s like the Rav 4 might have restrictions in parks like Masai Mara.

While some travelers have had positive experiences with self-drive options, many advise against it unless one has previous driving experience in Africa. The traffic conditions and driving culture in Nairobi can be challenging.

For those hesitant to drive, using Uber or other similar services is highly recommended. These services are described as affordable and convenient for navigating the city without the stress of self-driving.

Some travelers have stated that the official website to obtain a Kenya eVisa is https://evisa.go.ke. The process involves setting up an account on eCitizen Kenya, which can take some time. After setting up the account, the eVisa application can be completed through this portal.

Travelers have mentioned that a stable internet connection is crucial for successfully applying for the eVisa. The payment process can be challenging and may require multiple attempts. Good patience is recommended throughout this process.

According to forum posts, applicants need various documents in JPEG format, such as a passport photo taken within the last six months, the front of the passport, the biometric page of the passport, and an itinerary or hotel booking confirmation. It's advised to apply for the eVisa at least a month or two weeks before the scheduled arrival in Kenya to avoid disappointments.

For layovers of around 5-6 hours, some travelers suggested visiting nearby airport hotels like Ole Sereni or Panari for dining, either buffet or à la carte, without needing reservations. Others recommended spending time at the Carnivore for an All You Can Eat experience, or simply relaxing and dining at airport facilities such as Paul Caffe, known for excellent food.

For longer layovers, up to 17 hours, travelers have recommended booking a day room at airport hotels like Crowne Plaza or Four Points for rest and refreshment. Additionally, a half-day safari to Nairobi National Park offers a quick nature escape. Dining options for local cuisine like nyama choma can be experienced at places suggested by tour guides.

If interested in shopping and cultural experiences, the Galleria Mall and Maasai Market, as mentioned by some users, provide opportunities to shop and eat within a close radius to the airport, utilizing Nairobi’s bypass roads for quicker travel back to the airport.

According to forum posts, travelers recommend various accommodations in Masai Mara based on budget and experience preferences. For a mid-range option, Ashnil Camp and Mara Serena Lodge are suggested as they are within budget and provide good services. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, travelers have recommended Talek Bush Camp for its excellent value for money.

For a more luxurious experience, some travelers have recommended staying at Kicheche camps, specifically Kicheche Mara and Kicheche Valley. These camps are praised for their excellent guiding services and intimate safari experiences. Zebra Plains Mara Camp is also highlighted for its spacious tents and attentive staff, providing a wilderness feel.

Regarding location and wildlife viewing, Mara Sopa Lodge is noted for its proximity to the park gates, making it convenient for early morning and sunset game drives. This lodge is also near areas where wildlife, especially during the migration season, is abundantly visible.

According to forum posts, Diani Beach is frequently mentioned as a top beach destination in Kenya, known for its wide range of water sports and relaxing environments. Watamu Beach, recognized for its clear waters and scenic views, also came up frequently among travelers as a preferred spot.

For those seeking quieter, less touristy beaches, Lamu and its Shela Beach were recommended by some travelers for their beautiful sand dunes and fewer disturbances from beach vendors. Another suggestion was Kilifi, where travelers reported having the beach almost to themselves, providing a more secluded and private beach experience.

Other beaches like Nyali and Bamburi on the north coast of Mombasa are noted for being vibrant and active, offering numerous leisure activities. Manda Beach was also highlighted for its calm waters and scenic views, making it a great spot for sunset views and luxury resort experiences like Manda Bay Resort.