famous safari parks in kenya

Top 10 Wildlife Parks and Reserves in Kenya

Kenya 's top ten wildlife parks and reserves are listed below and reflect my personal opinion. It's the quality of Kenya's parks and reserves that make Kenya the most popular safari destination in Africa, and each has their own best times to visit . Safaris in Kenya are cheaper than anywhere else in Africa, but you can also enjoy an exclusive experience.

For more information about each of the parks listed below, click on the headings.

The Masai Mara National Reserve

The Masai Mara Reserve is the most popular wildlife park in Kenya. From July - October you can witness the incredible migration of millions of wildebeest and zebra. The Maasai tribesmen also offer cultural tours which really add to the experience. The Mara showcases big families of elephants, buffaloes, lions, and hippos among many more.

Best Time to Go: July - October Where to Stay: There are plenty of lodges and campsites both inside and outside the reserve. Getting There: Charter flights from Nairobi or Tanzania

Lake Nakuru National Park

 Getty Images/Darrell Gulin

Lake Nakuru is famous for its huge flocks of flamingos that enjoy the alkaline waters of this shallow soda lake. Other than a million flamingos and many more species of birds, the park is also home to white rhino, warthog, giraffe, hippo, ostrich, and lion. Lake Nakuru is slowly recovering from several environmental pressures that caused its flamingo population to decline in the 1990's.

Best Time to Go: Year-round Where to Stay: There are two main lodges and several public and private campsites in the park. Getting There: By road from Nairobi (3 hour drive).

Mount Kenya National Park

Mount Kenya is Africa's second highest peak and provided the inspiration for Kenya's modern name . It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and the seat of the Kikuyu God, Ngai . The Reserve is home to rare species of animals as well as spectacular lakes, mineral springs, and forests. The mountain is an incredibly important watershed, providing water for about 50% of Kenya’s population and producing 70% of Kenya’s hydroelectric power.

Best Time to Go: January - February and July - October Where to Stay: There are huts on the mountain and also lodges and private camps in the surrounding area. Getting There: By road from Nairobi (3-4 hour drive).

Amboseli National Park

Amboseli is a popular park with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro (in Tanzania ). The park is centered around Observation Hill , which offers great views of the plains below. The Maasai live around the park and other than their cattle, Amboseli is home to more than 50 species of mammal and over 400 species of bird. You can see elephant, hippo, cheetah , leopard and more.

Best Time to Go: June - October​ Where to Stay: ​There are several lodges and campsites in the park. Getting There: By road from Nairobi (4 hours) or a daily scheduled flight from Nairobi's Wilson Airport. More about Amboseli, and Images of Amboseli...

Tsavo National Parks

Getty Images/John Sohm

Tsavo National Park is split into Tsavo East and Tsavo West . The Tsavo parks are vast and the landscape is wild. Tsavo East is less developed than Tsavo West but more accessible. In Tsavo West, you can watch elephants bathe among the hippos and the crocs from a unique vantage point of an under-water glass tank. The "Big Five" do live here, but you have to look carefully to spot them.

Best Time to Go: May to October Where to Stay: Tsavo East has Voi Wildlife Lodge ; Tsavo West has several lodges . Both parks have private campsites. Getting There: By road from Mombasa (3-4 hours) or Nairobi (10 hours); Or charter flight.

Aberdare National Park

Getty Images/Keren Su

Aberdare National Park is as famous for its lovely waterfalls as its rare species of rhino, black leopard, and bongo antelope. The regular rains keep the park green year round and the temperatures cool, perfect for hiking.

Best Time to Go: May to October Where to Stay: Treetops and The Ark are two upscale lodges in the park, there are also public and private campsites. Getting There: By road from Nairobi (3-4 hours).

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

Getty Images/Joseph Sohm

Lewa is a private reserve set up primarily to protect black rhino, sitatunga, and the endangered Grevy's zebra. The park is excellently maintained, there are over 60 species of mammals and over 200 species of bird. You can even enjoy your game viewing on foot, on the back of a camel, or in a traditional safari vehicle.

Best Time to Go: January - April and June - October Where to Stay: There are several lodges in the park and on community land outside the park. Getting There: By air from Nairobi on Safari Link.

Nairobi National Park

Getty Images/Darrel Gulin

Nairobi National Park is one of Kenya's most successful black rhino sanctuaries, it also enjoys its own wildebeest migration as well as hosting over 400 species of bird. This is all within a stone's throw of Kenya's bustling capital city, Nairobi. Walking trails offer visitors a chance to experience the African bush at its best.

Best Time to Go: Year-round (migration is July/August) Where to Stay: Anywhere in Nairobi How to Get There: By road, it's less than 5 miles from the city center.

Samburu, Shaba and Buffalo Springs National Reserves

Samburu, Shaba and Buffalo Springs are 3 Reserves bordering one another in the dry landscape of North Central Kenya. The wildlife congregates around the Ewaso Ngiro River which runs through the Reserves. Besides the wildlife (elephant, giraffe, leopard, zebra, blue-legged ostriches), a highlight of any visit is to meet the Samburu people . Camel safaris are on offer at most of the lodges and if you're in the area, visit the Laikipia Plateau .

Best Time to Go: June to October Where to Stay: There are several lodges in each of the parks . Getting There: Daily flights from Nairobi or a full day drive .

Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park and Reserve

Getty Images/Martin Harvey

Kisite is a marine reserve situated in the shallow Indian Ocean coastal waters of Southern Kenya. Traditional Dhows sail you back and forth to the underwater park where you can enjoy snorkeling or diving among its colorful coral reefs. Dolphins, turtles, manta rays, angelfish, and parrotfish are regularly sighted.

Best Time To Go: October - January Where to Stay: There are several guesthouses and bandas available in the marine reserve. Getting There: 1 1/2 hour drive from Mombasa and then you can take a Dhow.

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The Best Safari Parks in Kenya

If you’re the type of traveller who dreams of seeing the natural world in all its glory, chances are you’ve spent some time fantasizing about a safari trip! Safaris are an incredible way to see animals – even rare or endangered animals, occasionally – in their natural habitat. Travellers are able to observe these wild animals from a safe distance, while supporting conservation efforts; truly a win-win situation.

If you have been dreaming about the perfect safari trip, you’ve probably spent some time thinking about a Kenya safari (and if you haven’t, start!). Not only will you have chances to see the Big Five (the five biggest game animals travellers can see on a safari: elephants, buffalo, rhinos, lions, and leopards), you’ll have jaw-dropping views of Mount Kilimanjaro in nearby Tanzania, stretches of amazing beaches, and incredibly welcoming locals.

Travel on: A safari tour

The best time to visit Kenya for a safari

Kenya is known as a year-round safari destination, but there are always things to consider when deciding when to visit this beautiful country! Much of the wildlife can most easily be seen during the dry season, from late June into October. There are a couple of reasons for this: firstly, the dry season means animals gather in massive packs around available water, meaning a visit to a waterhole can mean checking every animal off your list with one game drive! Secondly, the Great Migration – a natural event in which millions of wildebeest and zebras travel from Tanzania into Kenya – reaches the Masai Mara reserve in July and remains until October. Not only will this mean guaranteed sightings of these grazing animals, it also increases your chance of spotting a predator or two!

See Also: Best time to visit Kenya

The best safari parks in Kenya

The only thing left to do, really, is decide where in Kenya you’d like to visit! Thankfully, there’s no shortage of amazing safari parks in Kenya – here are a few of our favourites.

See Also: How to Choose the Right Safari for You

Masai Mara National Reserve

Easily the most famous safari park in Kenya, Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the best safari destinations in the world! One of the main reasons this expansive park attracts so many visitors is the Great Migration – from about July to October, travellers will be able to witness herds of wildebeest and zebras in the millions travelling from nearby Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Masai Mara in search of food and water. This experience is one of nature’s most incredible natural occurrences, so travellers looking for something truly amazing during their safari should put Masai Mara National Reserve at the top of their list.

Travel on: a Kenya and Tanzania safari

Amboseli National Park

Located in southern Kenya, Amboseli National Park is best known for one animal in particular: elephants! Travellers dreaming of seeing this impressive member of the Big Five should consider a visit to Amboseli National Park, as visitors are almost guaranteed views of large elephant herds. Beyond the wildlife, Amboseli also provides amazing natural views – here, travellers have the chance to wake up in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro; the highest mountain in Africa and one of the famous Seven Summits.

See Also: Can a Safari Take You Back to Your Childhood?

Buffalo Springs National Reserve

Buffalo Springs National Reserve in northern Kenya is a popular safari destination – here, travellers will enjoy sightings of classic safari animals such as giraffes, elephants, lions, cheetahs, and African buffalo, as well as more unique animals, such as the endangered Grevy’s Zebra, or the Somali ostrich (a larger bird than the Masai ostrich). There is also some incredible bird life in Buffalo Springs National Reserve, with a species for every day of the year – over 365 species of birds have been recorded in the reserve!

Lake Nakuru National Park

Calling all photography lovers! Lake Nakuru’s colours will leave you breathless. Known as a haven for several animals – including both black and white rhinos – Lake Nakuru is filled to the brim with amazing sights. The park serves as a protected area for relocated animals, such as Rothschild’s giraffes, which were relocated from western Kenya from 1977. Lake Nakuru is also a fantastic spot to look for one of the rarer members of the Big Five – in recent years, leopard sightings have become increasingly-common in the park. One of the biggest draws of Lake Nakuru? The area’s flamingo population is massive, and serves for perfect photos of bright pink against vivid blue water.

Samburu National Reserve

Made famous by the award-winning book and movie Born Free, Samburu National Reserve is possibly best known as being the place in which conservationists raised Elsa the Lioness. Travellers looking to spot some of Africa’s most famous predators should certainly head to Samburu – here, you’ll find large amounts of Nile crocodiles, cheetahs, leopards, and, as the reserve is part of a Lion Conservation Unit, there are countless opportunities to spot these amazing creatures here.

While no one is guaranteed good weather conditions or sightings of specific animals on a safari, choosing Kenya for your safari is sure to be an amazing experience. Whether you’re setting out in search of the country’s colourful birdlife, looking for the Big Five, or just trying to soak in as much of this beautiful country as possible, it’s easy to see why Kenya is a top safari destination!

Which safari park would you most like to visit?

Maggie Soares

Maggie is a life-long traveller with a special affinity for the United Kingdom. When she's not reading, writing, or dreaming about her next trip, you can find her talking at length about her dog to anyone who'll listen.

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The 7 Best Safari Parks & Game Reserves in Kenya

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

Ecotourism is at the heart of Safari Parks & Game Reserves in Kenya.

The country boasts an extensive collection of protected areas, including nearly two dozen national parks, 16 national reserves, and six marine parks and reserves.  

You would need several months to explore all of the natural beauty that Kenya wildlife attractions have to offer.

But here’s a look at seven of our favorite safari parks and game reserves in Kenya, from Amboseli and the Maasai Mara to Ol Pejeto and Tsavo.

READ MORE: Animals in Kenya: A Guide to 40 Species of Kenyan Wildlife

SAFARI PARKS & GAME RESERVES IN KENYA GUIDE

• Amboseli National Park 
• Chyulu Hills National Park
• Lake Nakuru National Park 
• Lewa Conservancy
• Maasai Mara National 
• Ol Peseta Conservancy 
• Tsavo National Park

READ MORE: T he 20 Safest Countries in Africa to Visit

1. AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK

Located in Kenya’s Rift Valley, this 151-square mile ecotourism hotspot was put aside for preservation in 1906 and established as a national park in 1974.

Originally known as Maasai Amboseli Game Reserve, it was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1991.  

Known as “the land of the giants,” Amboseli National Park is most famous for being the best place in the world for viewing free-ranging Elephant herds.

But the park also offers spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro , diverse wildlife ranging from the “Big 5” animals to over 400 species of birds, and incredible opportunities for cultural interactions with the indigenous Maasai people .

Located approximately 150 miles southeast of Nairobi, Amboseli is second most popular safari park in Kenya, attracting around 120,000 visitors every year.  

READ MORE: African Photo Safaris in Amboseli National Park & Timbavati Game Reserve

2. CHYULU HILLS NATIONAL PARK

Located in between the plains of the more well-known Amboseli and Tsavo National Parks, this African mountain range in eastern Kenya is packed with volcanic peaks up to 7178 feet high.

It’s home to the Leviathan Cave , one of the world’s longest lava tubes at approximately 7.15 miles.  

The park’s lower levels are comprised of grassland and thicket, but at 5900 feet it gives way to montane forest.

These hills are home to a surprisingly diverse array of mammals, including Black Rhinos , Cape Buffalo, Elephants, Grant’s Zebras, Leopards, Maasai Giraffes (the largest in East Africa), Lions, and various ungulates.  

The region is also home to numerous bird species (several of which are endemic), such as the African Crowned Eagle, Ayres’s Hawk Eagle, Cinnamon Bracken Warbler, Martial Eagle, Shelley’s Francolin, and White-starred Robin.

READ MORE:  Meru National Park (From George & Joy Adamson to Elsa’s Kopje)

3. LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK  

Located at 5754 feet above sea level in Kenya’s Rift Valley, this shallow alkaline lake is best known for its abundance of algae.

Every year it attracts Flamingos, numbering from the thousands into the millions. They are sometimes so plentiful that it can be difficult to see the water!

Lake Nakuru National Park started off small back in 1961, encompassing only the lake and the mountains that surround it.

But it has since expanded considerably into the savannahs, where it protects a sizable number of Rothschild’s Giraffes (which were relocated here for their protection in 1977).

The park is also home to Kenya’s largest concentration of Black Rhinos and White Rhinos.  

Bordered in the east by the Soysambu Conservancy, the park also boasts impressive populations of Lions, Cheetahs, Leopards, Waterbuck, and other ungulates.

In addition to the Flamingos, other bird species you may see inside the park include the African Fish Eagle, Goliath Heron, Pied Kingfisher, and Verreaux’s Eagle.  

READ MORE: The 25 Best National Parks in Africa for Wildlife Safaris

4. LEWA WILDLIFE CONSERVANCY  

Inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, the Lewa Conservancy is arguably one of Kenya’s greatest contributions to the wildlife conservation movement.

Located in northern Kenya, the non-profit was formed in 1995, and drew considerable international attention after Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton there.

Covering 62,000+ acres, Lewa is world-renowned for its wildlife conservation initiatives. It’s home to an innovative community partnership, the Northern Rangelands Trust, through which locals have donated land for wildlife preservation.

There’s also an impressive education program that has helped over 6,000 local students learn the importance of protecting wildlife.  

Because it’s close to parts of Kenya that were once volatile with poaching and other crimes, Lewa’s security measures are top-notch.

Despite being home to nearly 15% of the nation’s Black Rhino population, they went more than 3 years without having one poached.

The Lewa Conservancy is also home to the world’s largest population of Grevy’s Zebras, as well as Kenya’s Big 5 and myriad other cool & weird animals .  

READ MORE:  20 Endangered African Animals You Can See On A Safari

5. MAASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE

A dream trip for practically every traveler with a passion for wildlife, the Maasai Mara National Reserve is part of the massive Serengeti ecosystem, which covers around 12,000 square miles in northern Tanzania and southwestern Kenya.

The Maasai Mara is a prime destination for witnessing the annual Great Migration , which is widely considered among the world’s Top 10 Natural Wonders.

Every year millions of Gazelles, Wildebeest and Zebras make the arduous 500-mile trek northwest to Kenya in search of water and fresh grass.

The famous crossing at the Mara River, where hungry Crocodiles lie in wait, is unlike any other African safari spectacle you’re likely to see.  

Of course the Mara also offers numerous attractions at other times of the year, including Lions, Leopards, Cheetahs, Elephants, Buffalo, Hyenas, and more than 470 different species of birds.  

READ MORE: Maasai Mara Conservancies: A Model for Community-Based Conservation in Kenya

6. OL PEJETA CONSERVANCY

Located in Central Kenya between Aberdare National Park and Mount Kenya, Ol Pejeta is a non-profit 90,000-acre wildlife conservancy.

It’s the largest sanctuary for Black Rhino in East Africa , with a population of over 100.

Sadly, it’s home to the last Northern White Rhinos in the world: They were moved here from a zoo in the Czech Republic , and remain constantly under the watch of armed guards.  

Ol Pejeta is also home to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, which offers a safe place for abandoned, orphaned, and rescued chimps.

The sanctuary was opened in 1993 by an agreement between the Conservancy, the Kenya Wildlife Service , and the Jane Goodall Institute.

Other animals on the expansive property include the famed Big 5 animals, Baboons, Cheetahs, Giraffes, Hippos, Hyenas, Zebras, and rare species such as African Wild Dogs, Oryx, and Jackson’s Hartebeest.

There are also more than 300 different bird species in the area.  

READ MORE: The 10 Best Places for African Safari Tours

7. TSAVO NATIONAL PARK  

Located in Kenya’s Coast Province between Nairobi City and Mombasa, Tsavo is one of the largest national parks in the world (8,494 square miles).

It’s so large, it was divided into two sections– the 5,307 square mile Tsavo East and the 3,500 square mile Tsavo West.  

Tsavo East is made up of relatively flat, semi-arid grasslands and savanna, with major features including the Galana River, Lugard Falls, and the Yatta Plateau (the world’s longest lava flow).

Tsavo West is more mountainous and wetter, with features such Lake Jipe, Mzima Springs, and numerous swamps.  

Collectively, Tsavo is one of the largest game reserves in the world, home to the famous Tsavo Lions (whose males often lack manes) and a sanctuary for Black Rhinos.

The safari park’s other wildlife includes the Big 5, Aardwolf, Bushbabies, Caracal, African Civets, African Wild Dogs, Cheetah, Grevy’s Zebra, and more than 500 different bird species.   –Bret Love

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Kenya From Within

Showcasing Kenya to the World

Kenya Safari Destinations – 10 Must Visit National Parks and Reserves

Kenya , known as the jewel of East Africa, is a country blessed with diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, making it a premier destination for safari enthusiasts. From vast savannahs to lush forests, Kenya offers a captivating array of safari experiences.

Kenya Safari Destinations

1. maasai mara national reserve, 2. amboseli national park, 3. samburu national reserve, 4. tsavo east and west national parks, 5. lake nakuru national park, 6. aberdare national park, 7. mount kenya national park, 8. hell’s gate national park, 9. meru national park, 10. chyulu hills national park.

In this article, we’ll explore 10 must-visit safari destinations that showcase the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of this African gem.

The Maasai Mara is perhaps the most iconic safari destination in Kenya, renowned for its breathtaking annual wildebeest migration. This vast expanse of savannah is home to the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) and offers exceptional opportunities for game viewing. The Mara River, cutting through the reserve, is a spectacle of drama during the Wildebeest migration season .

Located at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park provides a unique safari experience with the stunning backdrop of Africa’s highest peak. Famous for its large elephant herds, the park offers fantastic views of wildlife against the backdrop of Kilimanjaro. The swamps and lakes within the park attract a variety of bird species, adding to the overall charm.

For a taste of Kenya’s northern frontier, Samburu National Reserve is a must-visit. This arid landscape is home to unique wildlife such as the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, and the reticulated giraffe. The Ewaso Ng’iro River flowing through the reserve sustains diverse flora and fauna, creating a striking contrast to the surrounding aridity.

Known for their sheer size, Tsavo East and West National Parks collectively form one of the largest wildlife conservation areas in the world. Tsavo East is characterized by vast plains and the iconic Yatta Plateau, while Tsavo West boasts diverse landscapes including volcanic craters and Mzima Springs, a freshwater oasis that attracts a variety of animals.

This compact yet remarkable park is famous for the vast flocks of flamingos that transform the shores of Lake Nakuru into a sea of pink. Beyond flamingos, the park is a haven for rhinos, both black and white, as well as lions, leopards, and a myriad of bird species. The picturesque landscapes surrounding the lake provide a serene setting for safari adventures.

For a safari experience in the highlands, Aberdare National Park offers lush forests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. The park is renowned for its tree lodges, providing a unique opportunity to observe animals at close range from elevated vantage points. Elephants, buffaloes, and various primates are among the inhabitants of this scenic park.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Kenya National Park is centered around Africa’s second-highest peak. The park is a haven for hikers and climbers, but it also offers an opportunity for a unique safari experience in the foothills. The lower slopes are home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and the elusive bongo antelope.

For a change of scenery, Hell’s Gate National Park is a geothermal wonderland featuring hot springs, geysers, and towering cliffs. This unique park allows visitors to hike and cycle amidst the wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, and baboons. The dramatic landscapes served as the inspiration for Disney’s “The Lion King.”

Immortalized in Joy Adamson’s “Born Free,” Meru National Park offers a quieter, off-the-beaten-path safari experience. The park is known for its diverse habitats, including riverine forests, grasslands, and swamps. Visitors can explore the park’s hidden gems, such as the Elsa’s Kopje, named after the famous lioness from “Born Free.”

Tucked between Amboseli and Tsavo West, Chyulu Hills National Park is a hidden gem known for its rolling green hills and ancient lava tubes. The park provides a serene setting for walking safaris, offering a chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and a range of bird species.

Kenya’s safari destinations offer a tapestry of landscapes and wildlife experiences that make it a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Whether witnessing the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara or exploring the geothermal wonders of Hell’s Gate, each destination contributes to Kenya’s reputation as a safari paradise. Go on a journey through these 10 must-visit Safari destinations and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Kenya’s wilderness.

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Kenya Safari Travel Guide: The Best Parks to Visit

Kenya has an enviable location in Africa with the Indian Ocean to the East. It is known for evocative landscapes with many protected areas and for being one of the finest African Safari destinations with first-rate national parks and an excellent history of animal conservation. Kenya safaris almost guarantee travelers the chance to see the big five African animals – leopard, buffalo, lion, rhino and elephant – along with crocodiles, cheetahs and hyenas in their natural habitats. 

Organized Kenya Safari Tours vs Self-Driving Safari

You may be wondering, should I book a pre-arranged Kenya safari tour or go at it alone. There are many options in Kenya when it comes to safari companies. While some people may opt to rent a vehicle and do a self-driving safari, this is not our recommended approach for a number of reasons.

The first, driving in Kenya can be a bit chaotic. From the drivers on the road to the lack of road in some places, it is best to let someone experienced do the driving. Further, going with an organized Kenya safari tour means having a guide that knows the parks and most importantly is an expert in wildlife spotting. You don’t want to spend all this time and money coming to Kenya and not have the chance to spot all the incredible wildlife it has to offer.

Types of Guided Safaris Offered in Kenya

There are two main types of safari tours in Kenya. These include private safari tour packages and group safari tours.

Private Kenya Safari Packages

If you prefer a luxury Kenya safari, we highly recommend splurging for a private safari tour. This will allow you to pick the parks that you want to go to including the best national parks and private conservancies in Kenya that we list below. You also get to choose the dates and length of time that you want to be on safari in Kenya for. You can even decide if you would like to do a multi-country safari and combine a Kenya & Tanzania safari.

See all of your options and prices for a private Safari in Kenya here on Viator .

Group Safari Tours in Kenya

For those on a budget, a group Kenya safari may make more sense. Group safaris start on a specific date and run for a specific period of time. You can choose to do 3, 5, 7 day or even longer group safaris. Group size are typically small as you share a Landcruiser that can fit 6 or 8 people. You save money plus get the chance of meeting new friends! Keep in mind with a group safari you may not be able to choose which national parks or reserves you want to go to as they are pre-planned.

See all of your options and prices for a group Kenya safari here on Viator .

Kenya is the Best Place in Africa to Go for a Safari

Some people may be wondering, is Kenya or Tanzania better for safari? Having travelled through them both, we can say that Kenya is truly one of a kind and the best place to go for an African safari. With so many amazing destinations in Africa famous for safaris, you may be wondering why we believe Kenya safaris are the best. Well, we have a long list for you of what makes Kenya the best place to go for a safari vacation.

Why is a safari holiday in Kenya the best?

• Incredible scenery and Africa’s tallest peaks. Kenya straddles the equator and is covered by the Rift Valley. This has a range of valleys running over a 5,000km crack in the Earth and is also home to Africa’s highest peaks, including Mount Kenya. There are exquisite coastal plains and dry wastelands in the north. 
• Unique wildlife that can be seen only in this part of the world. With this variety, it might be hard to choose where to base yourself, but the Central Highlands is a prime Kenya safari location. It has Mount Kenya and Aberdare mountains towering over its landscape and there are many conservation areas. As a result, travellers will find unusual species exclusive to this part of Africa, such as a reticulated giraffe, a Gerenuk, a Beisa oryx or a Grevy’s zebra. 
• Masai Mara and “The Great Migration.” In the South of Kenya, you’ll witness the great migration of animals – like the wildebeests – and the eagle-eyed predators that hunt them. Known as “The Great Migration”, every year between July to November, millions of wildebeests cross the Mara River to the Maasai Mara mainland followed by gazelles, zebras, topi, elands and the predators that hunt them. This area is considered one of the most important in the world for animal conservation. This is a sight to behold and is considered “one of the natural wonders of the world”.
• Kenya Banned Big Game Hunting in 1977 and is a Leader in Wildlife Conservation . There’s a reason why there are so many animals in Kenya. The country banned hunting in 1977, the first African country to do so and remains to be one of the few countries in Africa where hunting is strictly prohibited. As a result, the wildlife on a Kenya safari is not only plentiful but they are also not as afraid of human beings as in many other African safari destinations. Further, Kenya goes above and beyond when it comes to conserving their endangered species. A large part of the country is protected by public and private parks and conservancies. They work closely with the local people to ensure that they benefit from tourism and therefor protect the wildlife. According to the IFAW , there were 0 rhinos poached in Kenya in 2020 and the overall Rhino population increased by over 150 rhinos.
• Kenyan People are Friendly . The final reason why Kenya is the best place in Africa to go on a safari is because the people there are very friendly and always welcoming of tourists.
• It’s Less “Touristy” Than Other Safari Destinations. There is no doubt as to why safari vacations are so popular. Being in Africa and seeing incredible wildlife including lions, cheetah, elephants and so much more is truly a bucket list worthy experience. Many popular destinations, including Tanzania, are incredibly crowded and places like the Serengeti gets very dusty with the hundreds of safari vehicles you encounter even during off season. Being in a less crowded place means that you have more private time with the wildlife without having 50 safari vehicles fighting over a spot to see a lion.

It’s no wonder that safaris in Kenya are nothing short of exceptional, with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Africa’s best scenery, wildlife and sunrises/sunsets! A Kenya safari will not only be one of your most bucket list worthy experiences but will likely keep you coming back for more.

Best National Parks and Reserves in Kenya to Visit on a Safari

Naboisho conservancy – best safari destination for seeing lion s.

The Mara Naboisho Conservancy works with the local people to preserve the authenticity of the natural land and the Mara ecosystem. As a result, around 500 Maasai people own the land, renting it to camp owners which in return funds the local community with a sustainable livelihood.

The area covers 53,000 acres and the conservancy limits the number of tourists entering the land, meaning you’ll get an exclusive safari experience and unspoiled views of Africa’s animals. This is the best place to visit for a Kenya luxury safari as some of the best safari lodges in Kenya can be found within this conservancy.

Top animals to spot at Naboisho Mara Conservancy

This conservancy has the largest density of lions in Africa. There are around 100 lions as well as an impressive number of giraffes, the adorable bat eared fox, elephants and a large family of hyenas. This conservancy has a very large lion pride that is made up of over 20 lions! Moreover, the Naboisho Conservancy is the Kenya safari to embark on for spotting the region’s rarest animals, like the wild dog. The land also is part of a migration corridor between the Maasai Mara National Reserve and the Loita plains, so watch out for wildebeest and zebra. 

Best places to stay in Naboisho Mara

There are nine camps in the conservancy, each committed to making sure any negative impact on the wildlife and land is as low as possible. They all have fantastic views, traditional-style safari tents, en-suite bathrooms and a complimentary laundry service. 

Leopard Hill – Our personal favorite hotel at Naboisho Mara, this incredible, luxurious property sits in the center of it all. Hear the majestic lion roar while you sleep at night. The tents have retractable netted roofs so you can stargaze and listen to the sounds of the wildlife. Enjoy your dinner surrounded by monkeys and baboons in the African savannah. This lodge is a truly bucket list experience on any Kenya safari.

Eagle View – Located on top of a hill, this stunning hotel provides an incredible view of a natural watering hole where both predator and prey come to drink.

Kicheche Valley Camp – Made up of only 6 tents, the camp is sure to come with a luxurious, personal experience. Surrounded by Acacia trees, enjoy your time in the wild Kenya safari with incredible views surrounding you.

How to get to Naboisho Mara Conservancy

Flying is the recommended mode of travel to reach this conservancy. The nearest airport is the Ol Seki Airstrip which is about a 10-minute drive away. Other nearby airstrips include Keekorok, Serena, Musiara, and Mara North. For those that prefer to drive, it takes approximately 5 hours to drive from Nairobi to Naboisho Mara Conservancy. We recommend hiring a private driver because roads in Kenya can be challenging to drive on.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy – The Best Safari Destination for Seeing Rhinos

Situated between the Aberdare Hills and Mount Kenya, Ol Pejeta is one of the best safaris in Kenya for seeing rhinos and was established to rehabilitate animals saved from the black market. Moreover, it has one of the largest densities of predators in Kenya while also running a thriving livestock program. 

Top animals to spot at Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya

Ol Pejeta is the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa and is home to the world’s last two northern white rhinos. On top of this, the conservancy is the only place in Kenya to discover chimpanzees! Within its 36,420 hectares, you’ll find bat-eared fox, wild dogs, hippos, zebra and more than 500 species of birds, including the Malachite sunbirds. 

Best places to stay in Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Ol Pejeta has tented camps, homestays and lodges. If you’re traveling as a family or a bigger group, consider staying at a homestay or vacation rental. This could be the most budget friendly option. VRBO has several larger vacation rentals for a low price. See all of your options on VRBO .

The Safari Cottages are located along a river in the heart of the conservancy’s wilderness area. It has an eco-friendly luxury design and includes a guide and 4×4 safari vehicle.

Alternatively, for a luxurious lodge experience where you can dine with views of a watering hole where elephants come within feet of you the Sweetwaters Serena Camp is a must.

See all Ol Pejeta conservancy accommodation options here . 

How to get to Ol Pejeta Conservancy

If you are driving from Nairobi, it’ll take around 3-4 hours to reach the conservancy. Alternatively, there are daily flights from Nairobi Wilson Airport to Nanyuki airstrip. This flight takes around 45 minutes. 

Samburu National Reserve – Best Safari Destination for Seeing Leopards

The Samburu National Reserve is situated along the South-Eastern part of the Samburu District in Kenya. The reserve spans 165km2 of land and since it lies on the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River and covers pristine wilderness, this reserve is a special location for rare species like the Grevy zebra and Beisa oryx. For these reasons, as well as its excellent number of conservancies and ranches, Samburu is one of the best wildlife reserves in all of Africa. 

Top animals to spot in Samburu National Reserve

Samburu is the best safari in Kenya for spotting leopards and 900 elephants. You’ll also see lions – including Kamunyak, the famous lioness that adopted a baby Oryx – cheetahs, wild dogs and over 450 bird species. 

Best Places to Stay in Samburu National Reserve

One of the best luxury safari lodges in Africa is the Elephant Bedroom Camp . We liked it so much we even wrote a whole separate feature on it as a top bucket list place to stay in the world. Here you can enjoy breakfast with an elephant and be in the center of all of the wildlife action situated on the river in Samburu. Their luxurious rooms even have their own private outdoor soaking pools. Be careful, a thirsty elephant might decide to stop by for a drink.

You can find additional places to stay at Samburu National Reserve on Booking.com .

How to Get to Samburu National Reserve

The reserve is about 310kms from Nairobi and the best way to reach it is by air or by road. The drive from Nairobi takes around 5-6 hours along the Thika Superhighway Road. Flying to the reserve is easier and takes only 1.5 hours from Wilson Airport to multiple airstrips in Samburu. 

Maasai Mara National Park – The Best Overall Safari in Kenya

In the South-West of Kenya, the Masai Mara – together with the Serengeti National Park – has Africa’s most diverse ecosystem. As it covers 1,510 square km and is over 1,500 metres above sea level, it is also the best safari in Kenya for exquisite views of the big game. Within this space, there are over 500 species of birds, and 95 species of mammals, and between July-October travelers can witness the Great Wildebeest Migration.

Top animals you can see on safari in Maasai Mara

The national park has two million wildebeest, antelopes, zebras, and many cheetahs. In fact, Maasai Mara is the best place to spot cheetahs in Kenya! Within the dense thickets, endangered black rhinos can be found, while hippos hide in the large rafts.

Best luxury safari lodges and budget places to stay in Masai Mara

There are many incredible places to stay in Masai Mara National Reserve. From luxury safari lodges to budget-friendly accommodations there is a bit of something for everyone.

See options and pricing for safari lodges in Masai Mara on Booking .

How to get to Masai Mara from Nairobi

Driving from Nairobi will take about 3-4 hours, while flying takes about 40-45 minutes from Nairobi. Driving is considered the best way to reach the park, and it’s recommended to take the Safari Link if you want to fly. The nearest airport is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. You can have a private driver take you from the Nairobi airport to Masai Mara by car.

Nairobi National Park – The Most Accessible National Park in Africa

The Nairobi park is a one-of-a-kind safari in Kenya as it’s the world’s only “wildlife capital”, and it’s the most accessible safari experience in Africa. Located only a short drive from the Nairobi airport or out of Nairobi’s business district, you’ll find lots of open grassland with cityscape background. 

Top wildlife to see in Nairobi National Park

Despite its proximity to a city, the Nairobi National Park plays host to several astonishing wildlife, including over 100 mammals. The park has the densest concentration of black rhinos in the world and has strong anti-poaching measures in place. On this African safari, it is also common to see hyenas and lions, and if visitors are lucky, they’ll spot leopards and cheetahs. Here, expect to find buffaloes, giraffes, warthogs, gazelles and zebras. The park also has a wetland with over 400 bird species. 

Best places to stay in Nairobi National Park

The park has several places to stay, and travelers on a budget should opt for one of their cottages or guesthouses . These range from sleeping two to eight guests and were designed to give the best view of the wildlife. The site also has camping facilities that promote “sleep in the wild with the wild” and has basic facilities like a kitchen, bathroom, drinking water and open huts. There are special campsites which give you exclusive use of the area, however, these do not have any facilities.

How to get to Nairobi National Park

The nearest airports are Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Wilsons Airports, and it’s roughly a 10km drive from Nairobi City Centre. Private tours will take you directly from the airport which is perfect for people that have a day layover in Nairobi or those looking for a day trip from Nairobi . You can also hop on a bus from Nairobi Railway Station which will drop you at the park’s main gate. This journey takes about 35 minutes. 

Tsavo East National Park

This is Kenya’s largest national park, it has one of the country’s largest rivers flowing through its centre and spans 13,747 square km. Despite this, Tsavo East is flatter and drier than Tsavo West, but this makes it easier to spot wildlife. On this safari in Kenya, you can explore the Yatta plateau, characterised by wide and shallow valleys that were created by lava flows. 

Top animals to spot in Tsavo East

The River Galana is among Tsavo East’s main attractions and it’s here where tourists will find crocodiles. The Lugard falls are a great place to discover buffalos and hippos but be aware, there are also crocodiles in the pools. The Aruba dam is the main drinking point where you’ll spot waterbucks, elephants, warthogs, duikers, dik-dik, and hartebeest. The main attraction to Tsavo East is the lions which are plentiful and it is here that the infamous Tsavo man-eaters resided.

Best safari lodges in Tsavo East National Park

Despite being the largest national park in Kenya, Tsavo East is less visited than other parks and has fewer lodging options. You can find available safari lodges in Tsavo East here on Booking .

How to get to Tsavo East National Park

There are several ways to reach Tsavo East National Park. One way is to drive along the Nairobi-Mombasa highway which takes around six hours. The quickest way to travel is by plane from Nairobi to Voi airstrip, Sala airstrip, Bachuma airstrip, Aruba airstrip, or Ithumba airstrip which takes roughly four hours. This travel time includes transfers.

Tsavo West National Park

Unlike Tsavo East, Tsavo West is made up of wooded grasslands and mountains. The Mzima springs can be visited which are comprised of four springs from the reservoir under the Chyulu Hills. The trees surrounding these are home to vervet monkeys who feed on date trees, figs and raffia palms. A variety of birds can likewise be spotted here. 

Top animals to spot at Tsavo West

The Ngulia Rhino sanctuary is at the base of Ngulia hill and houses endangered rhinos, including the nocturnal black rhinos. The Shetani lava flow which folds across the savannah has many animals, including the elusive wild dogs, cheetah, buffalos, hippos, elephants, leopards and elephants. The backdrop with the lava is absolutely stunning.

Best places to stay in Tsavo West National Park

Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge is a wonderful place to stay in Tsavo West National Park. It is situated next to a watering hole which allows prime wildlife viewing opportunities.

Another option for hotels in Tsavo West is Severin Safari Camp . This upscale property has incredible views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and a pool and spa overlooking the savannah.

How to get to Tsavo West National Park

The instructions to Tsavo West are similar to the ones from Tsavo East. This park is easily accessible from Amboseli National Park as well and Kenya safaris to both national parks are often combined together

Amboseli National Park – The Best for Seeing Elephants

If you’re considering taking safaris in Kenya, then the one at Amboseli National Park is a must. It is the second most popular national park in Kenya and was named a UNESCO-Mab Biosphere Reserve in 1991. The name comes from a Maasai word that means “salty dust” and looking at its landscape you’d understand why. The park is divided into five habitats, ranging from wetlands with sulphur springs to the dried Lake Amboseli. There are also woodlands and savannah, and travelers can visit a local Maasai community that lives around the park. 

Top animals you can see at Amboseli National Park

Here you’re guaranteed to see hundreds of big-tusked elephants. Other animals that can be spotted are lions, buffalos, zebras, impalas and over 400 species of birds, including Dickinson’s kestrel, Greater flamingo and the African swamphen. 

Best safari lodges in Amboseli National Park

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge – Situated in the heart of Amboseli National Park, Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge is a beautiful property. Hang out with the local troop of monkeys and baboons as you enjoy your home in the middle of the wild.

Ol Tukai Lodge Amboseli – An incredible pool with a view. Watch wildlife passing buy as you soak in the pool after a hot day out on safari.

How to get to Amboseli National Park from Nairobi

You can get to Amboseli by road or by air. Driving from Nairobi takes around 3 hours and is the most convenient way to reach the park. Several airlines will take travelers to Amboseli and it’s best to fly into Amboseli Airport. This journey takes roughly 35 minutes. 

Hell’s Gate National Park – The Best for a Biking Safari

Carnivores are rarely spotted here, meaning this national park is one for biking and walking. 

The park is named after the geothermal activity within its borders, and its location in the Great Rift Valley is enviable. You’ll find gorges, soaring cliffs and rock towers, and geothermal steam. The latter adds the atmosphere needed for a place named Hell’s Gate. On top of this, its landscape offers some of the best sunrises, rock climbing opportunities and a natural spa. For history lovers, there’s a Maasai Cultural Centre where you can learn about the tribe’s traditions and customs. 

Top animals to spot at Hell’s Gate National Park

This Kenya safari offers a smaller range of wildlife, but you’re unlikely to see predators like cheetahs, hyenas, leopards and lions. Other species within the park are klipspringers, hartebeests, Thomson’s gazelles, zebra, buffalo, reedbucks and elands. There are also over 100 species of birds, including Verreaux eagles, vultures and augur buzzards. 

Best places to stay near Hell’s Gate National Park

Hell’s Gate has the Enashipai Resort & Spa which is ideal for luxury travellers, couples and those traveling for business. The lodge has gorgeous grounds, guest rooms with fine linens, Afro-chic décor, and traditional Masai headboards. The resort also has the Senteu Restaurant serving traditional Kenyan cuisine. There are three campsites at Hell’s Gate – Endachata, Olduvai and Naiburta. For larger groups and families, a vacation rental is a better option as it can fit more people. Check available vacation rentals near Hell’s Gate National Park on VRBO .

How to get to Hell’s Gate National Park from Nairobi

Hell’s Gate is close to Nairobi and can be easily accessed by road. Its entrance is about nine miles from the Nairobi-Naivasha highway and takes roughly two hours to get to from Nairobi. If you’d like to fly, the Naivasha airstrip is the nearest and it has connecting chartering flights between parks which can be booked by tour operators. Domestic flights fly from Wilson Airport in Nairobi.  

Lake Naivasha – The Land of the Hippos

Lake Naivasha is the Rift Valley’s highest lake, sitting at 1,884m above sea level. Its name derives from the Maasai word for ‘rough water’ as the area is known for having storms that suddenly appear. The landscape surrounding the lake is covered in swampland spanning 64km2 and there’s a colony of fever trees.

Top wildlife to spot in Lake Naivasha, Kenya

Lake Naivasha is the most unusual safari in Kenya as you can hop on board a boat safari, meaning you can get close and personal with hippos and birds. This safari takes roughly an hour, and you might see over 1,500 hippos and over 400 bird species. On top of this, waterbucks, impalas, zebras and giraffes can be spotted in the lake’s immediate vicinity, and very lucky travelers might spot a leopard. 

Best places to stay in Lake Naivasha

The Sawela Lodges are one of the most popular hotels in the area and is situated 85km from Nairobi, taking roughly 90-minutes to reach. There are 90 rooms, ranging from basic to luxury, and the restaurant prepares dishes with produce from local farms. The hotel has a football pitch, netball and volleyball courts, and a swimming pool. Lake Naivasha Resort is another option which again has three pools, a restaurant, a jacuzzi, two bars, a spa and a gym. 

How to get to Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha is easily accessible from Nairobi, and the drive takes roughly 2.5 hours along the C88 and the Old Naivasha Road. The cheapest way to travel is to hire a minibus which seats 7-8 people. There is also the Mololine Express from Nairobi to Nakuru, make sure to disembark at Naivasha Junction. The lake is only a 15-minute flight from Nairobi via safari Link . 

Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate National Park are very close to one another and can be done as part of a combined Kenya safari itinerary.

What Does a Kenya Safari Cost?

The cost of a Kenya safari varies depending on the types of accommodations you would like to stay in and whether you are doing a private or group tour.

Safari lodging accommodations vary from luxury safari lodges to mid-range safari lodges to budget safari lodges. Depending on your budget and the type of experience you want to have you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $1000 per person per night for a group tour.

For a private tour, accommodations again can vary however between the safari vehicle, driver/guide and accommodations you can expect anywhere from $150-$2000 per person per night for a private safari tour.

When is the Best Time to Go on Safari in Kenya?

The best time to go on a safari in Kenya is between July-March which is the dry season. As a result of the mild and dry weather, there is less water which forces animals to congregate at watering holes, meaning it’s easier for safari-goers to spot them. For those who want to witness The Great Migration in Masai Mara, the best time to go is from July to October.

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Kenya's Best Safari Parks And Reserves

When the topic of an African safari is brought up, Kenya must be one of the first destinations which comes to mind. It is after all, the birthplace of the safari and was the first country to introduce the concept of the Big 5. A Kenyan safari is a must for anyone looking to see a huge array of wildlife but knowing exactly which park or reserve to travel to can be tough. With that in mind, we’re highlighting the five places in Kenya for a safari that we feel are the best.

1. Masai Mara National Reserve

The iconic Masai Mara is widely regarded as the jewel of Kenya’s wildlife viewing areas, and deservedly so. A varied land of savannah woodlands, riverine forest and vast grassland, the reserve is home to an abundant predator population year-round, with the chance to encounter prides of lions, cheetahs hunting on the open plains and leopards stalking in the forests all serving as key attractions. 

The Mara is also, of course, home to the ultimate wildlife experience from July through to September, when you'll witness thousands of wildebeest making their annual journey across the Mara River during the Great Migration . Some of Kenya’s most revered camps and lodges can be found in the Masai Mara, such as the famous Governors’ Camp which sits along the Mara River and has a bar tent and deck overlooking the river, perfect for tracking the migration. 

2. Lake Nakuru National Park

Visitors from around the world are drawn to Lake Nakuru to witness the huge flocks of flamingos gathering at the lake, as well as the 300+ plus other species of bird which call the park home. Although the numbers of flamingo and pelican congregating in the area has decreased in recent years, it has been known to rise to up to 1.5 million. It’s not just birdlife which inhabits Lake Nakuru en masse, the park was declared a rhino sanctuary in 1983 and currently has a very healthy population of both black and white rhino. If you venture south to the forested area below Flamingo Hill, you’ll find the popular lion-spotting region, where you’ll see the lionesses sleeping in the trees as well as a few leopards. 

3. Laikipia

Located to the north-west of snow-capped Mount Kenya, the high plains of Laikipia are increasingly being recognised as one of Kenya's premier safari regions. This thinly populated area offers endless vistas and stretches of complete wilderness, offering some of the most extraordinary views found anywhere in the country. On the wildlife front, the density of the wildlife population in Laikipia ranks second only to the Masai Mara, and the area supports more endangered mammals than anywhere else in East Africa, as well as a healthy number of endemic species including the Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe. One of Laikipia’s biggest attraction is the huge number of rhinos. The region is home to an astounding 50% of Kenya's rhino population, with over 300 of the magnificent creatures roaming the vast plains. 

4. Meru National Park

Having been restored since it fell into neglect amidst out of control poaching in the 1990s, Meru National Park is becoming an increasingly popular destination for wildlife viewing. It is still one of the least visited of Kenya’s big parks, but this works in its favour as it leaves an unspoiled stretch of land spanning 870 square kilometres, just waiting to be discovered.

Meru may not boast quite as many visitors as other well-established parks, but its wildlife population and game viewing opportunities matches almost any other park in Kenya. There are now increasingly frequent sightings of the Big 5, as well as cheetah and numerous other savannah species. The streams and rivers which run through Meru are a key feature of the landscape, and offer excellent opportunities to spot hippo, crocodile and the African fish eagle.

5. Samburu National Reserve

Deriving its name from the Samburu people who have been native to the region for many years, Samburu National Reserve is one of Kenya’s smaller parks in comparison to the likes of the Masai Mara but is teeming with life, nonetheless. The unrestricted savannah grassland has the Ewaso Nyiro River passing through it, which attracts an abundance of wildlife including a huge population of Nile crocodile, and the reserve is also home to the ‘Samburu Special 5’, the rare northern species which inhabit the park. These are the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk and the beisa oryx. 

The birdlife at Samburu is prevalent, with over 350 species of bird including vultures, kingfishers, marabous, bateleurs, guinea fowl, and others. Other Kenyan wildlife present in the park includes cheetahs and lions, as well as elephants, buffalo and hippos. Elusive leopards are also found in the reserve and are best spotted in the evenings. While at Samburu, it’s also definitely worth making time for the cultural tours, where you’ll visit the local Samburu villages and get a chance to interact with the colourful Samburu people in their traditional setting and experience the culture.

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• Kenya safaris

Kenya safari guide – where & when to go, and what to see

Kenya safaris rock! Kenya is one of East Africa’s premier safari destinations, with massive open savannah regions hosting a huge breadth and depth of African wildlife. Over 10% of the country is protected in some form or other, and national parks in Kenya rate as some of the best in the world. A safari in Kenya almost guarantees you a sighting of the big five African animals of lion , buffalo , elephant , rhino , and leopard . Alongside these big-hitters are hundreds of other species of African animals, and some of the world’s most diverse bird-life.

Straddling the equator, Kenya is dominated by the Rift Valley – a huge range of valleys strung along a 5,000 km crack in the earth’s crust that runs through East Africa. Within the Rift Valley are Africa’s highest peaks – in Kenya these are the volcanoes of Mount Kenya and Mount Elgon. East of the Rift Valley are the coastal plains, whilst the north of Kenya is made up of arid wastelands. The prime Kenya safari destinations are the Central Highlands and areas within the Rift Valley. The south of the country hosts the great migration of plains animals and their predators each year between June and November. In short, Kenya safaris are up there with the very best in terms of wildlife and scenery.

Self-drive safaris are an option in many national parks in Kenya, though to enjoy full access to the most remote (and tourist-free) areas you’ll need a 4WD car or jeep. If you fancy taking a tour or arranging your own guide and/or driver have a look at our list of safari tour companies in Kenya before arrival in the country.

Alongside safaris and wildlife spotting, a visit to Kenya allows you to easily extend your safari with a visit to a resort on the Indian Ocean coast, or with activities such as trekking, hiking, sailing or diving .

Useful resources

• Book a Kenya Safari
• Kenyan Ministry of Tourism
• Kenya Wildlife Service

Kenya safari highlights

Experience maasai culture.

The Maasai are one of the few African tribes who have retained most of their traditions, lifestyle, and lore – along with their distinctive red robes. Many safari lodges and operators work with local Maasai on community projects. Experiencing some time in a Maasai village whilst in Kenya is a unique cultural experience that will help put your visit in context.

Big five spotting

Big five spotting in Kenya is high on most visitor’s safari checklist, and with Kenya’s superb network of national park gems seeing Africa’s biggest beasts up close and personal is a realistic goal. Destinations rich in lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo are clustered in the south of the country, particularly Amboseli, Masai Mara and East and West Tsavo (for the Tsavo lions !) national parks.

Watch the ‘Great Wildebeest Migration’

Indian ocean beach perfection

Best time to safari in Kenya

The peak tourist season in Kenya is January and February when the weather is consistently warm and dry, with wildlife easy to spot in large concentrations. If you take a Kenya safari in peak season expect to be in company with crowds of tourists, and paying top dollar for your safari. If you’re specifically after catching sight of the annual great migration, June to October is the time to head to the Masai Mara National Park in southern Kenya.

The long rains hit Kenya through March, April and May, and the short rains from October to December. During the short rains, it generally rains only for short periods at a time, meaning your wildlife viewing will not be too disrupted. This is the time you can get some great deals on safari tours, or safari lodges if you’re travelling independently.

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National parks in Kenya

With a stunning array of wildlife and more than 10% of the country given over to national parks and reserves, Kenya is undoubtedly one of the world’s best safari destinations. Whilst the world-famous Kenyan national parks such as Masai Mara and Amboseli National Parks can be uncomfortably heaving with tourists in January and February, Kenya has plenty of smaller, out of the way national parks that see only a trickle of visitors year-round. As such it’s well worth taking the time to consider whereabouts in Kenya to go on safari if you’re visiting during peak season.

Top Kenya national park picks

Masai mara national reserve.

 Situated in southwest Kenya, the Masai Mara is part of the northern section of the Serengeti National Park, and is generally recognised as one of the greatest wildlife reserves in Africa. The reserve is famous for the abundance of predators – particularly big cats – and the great wildebeest migration to feed these predators, as well as the Maasai people themselves.

• Lake Nakuru National Park

The stunning Lake Nakuru National Park is on the floor of the Great Rift Valley, surrounded by bushy grasslands and woods. There are 56 species of mammal in the park, but the star show are the thousands of flamingos, arriving in their millions some years.

• Amboseli National Park

Crowned by Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is one of Kenya’s most popular parks . The name ‘Amboseli’ comes from the Maasai language and means ‘salty dust’… perfect for the large herds of elephants that roam the park.

• Meru National Park

Meru National Park is a Kenyan park is located 350 km from Nairobi, featuring multiple landscapes including grasslands, swamp, jungle and rivers. It’s a birders paradise with over 427 recorded bird species, in addition to the big five .

All national parks in Kenya

Use the map below to locate all national parks in Kenya. Click the icons for more info.

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• Aberdare National Park
• Arabuk Sokoke National Park
• Hell’s Gate National Park
• Kakamega National Park
• Lake Bogaria National Park
• Malindi Watumu National Park
• Masai Mara National Park
• Mount Elgon National Park
• Mount Kenya National Park
• Nairobi National Park
• Saiwa Swamp National Park
• Shimba Hills National Park
• Tsavo National Park

Kenya safari resources

Kenya safari companies.

There are plenty of companies offering safari tours around Kenya. The focus is on the high end, but there are some companies that specialize in mid and budget safaris. Check out our reviews of safari tour companies in Kenya .

Kenya safari lodges

As a tourism-focussed country, Kenya has plenty of choice when it comes to safari accommodation. Lodge standards vary from rustic to modern, from the simple room to extreme luxury with en-suite private plunge pool. Search and book accommodation in Kenya .

For a trip to Kenya, travellers are required to apply for a visa. The easiest, most commonly used visa for going on a safari in Kenya, is the Kenya e-visa . It is valid for 90 days, and can even be extended once to 180 days once you arrive in Kenya. The visa can easily be applied for online and will save you the hassle of having to apply at an embassy or consulate.

Read safari guides to all countries

Botswana safaris , Namibia safaris , Rwanda safaris , South Africa safaris , Tanzania safaris , Uganda safaris , Zimbabwe safaris

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We’d love to hear any feedback or tips you may have – please get in touch , or add to the comments below.

Top countries for safaris

• Botswana safaris
• Namibia safaris
• South Africa safaris
• Tanzania safaris
• Uganda safaris

Safari basics

• Safari animals
• How to find the right safari company
• When to go on safari
• What to take on safari
• Safari clothing – what to wear
• Safari rules & etiquette
• Wildlife spotting tips

Most read articles

• All about the ‘big five’ animals
• Collective nouns for animals
• Safari movies to watch before you go
• The world’s fastest land animals
• Apex predators
• 10 Fascinating African tribes
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• 17 Epic hybrid animals
• The world’s ugliest animals
• Why are flamingos pink?

Africa’s best game reserves

• Chobe National Park, Botswana
• Etosha National Park, Namibia
• Kruger National Park, South Africa
• Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
• Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
• Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

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Have you ever imagined yourself amidst the untamed wilderness, surrounded by the majestic beauty of Africa? 

If you’re a thrill-seeker, exploring the top safaris in Kenya probably sets your heart racing. Sarah, an adventurous and eco-conscious traveler, seeks a vacation and an immersive experience in the wild. 

She’s drawn to the allure of Kenya’s famous safari parks, where the vibrant tapestry of wildlife and culture promises the adventure of a lifetime.

This article will take you through Kenya’s most spectacular safari destinations. 

From witnessing the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara to walking alongside giraffes on Crescent Island, each destination offers a unique window into the heart of Africa.

A Detailed Explanation of Kenya’s Safari Wonders

Kenya, a land of diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, is a haven for safari enthusiasts. Here’s everything else you need to know to plan your ultimate Kenyan safari adventure.

Maasai Mara National Park: A Wildlife Spectacle

The great migration: a natural wonder.

The Maasai Mara National Park is the pinnacle of top safaris in Kenya, renowned for the Great Migration. 

This extraordinary event, where millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle journey across the savannah, is a spectacle of nature’s grandeur. 

Recognized as one of the Seven New Wonders of the World , it offers an unmatched wildlife viewing experience, deeply etching itself in the memories of those who witness it.

Beyond the Migration: The Big Five and More

In the Maasai Mara, every safari is an exploration into the wild unknown. 

The park’s vast grasslands, peppered with acacia trees, are the stage for some of the most thrilling wildlife interactions. 

Beyond the Great Migration, the Mara is a year-round habitat for the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. Its reputation for big cats, particularly lions and elusive leopards, marks it as a highlight of the best safari in Kenya.

A Photographer’s and Nature Lover’s Paradise

The Maasai Mara is a haven for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The park’s golden sunrises and sunsets create mesmerizing backdrops for wildlife, offering perfect photo opportunities. 

The Mara River, crucial for the migration, is home to hippos and crocodiles, adding an element of excitement to the safari experience.

Also read: Exploring the Majestic Masai Mara Landscape: A Journey of Discovery

Cultural Richness: The Maasai Heritage

The Maasai Mara is more than a wildlife sanctuary; it’s a cultural gem. 

Named after the Maasai people, known for their unique traditions and attire, the park offers visitors a chance to explore Maasai villages. 

This cultural immersion adds depth to the Kenyan safari experience, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of wildlife and local traditions.

The Maasai Mara National Park transcends being a mere safari destination. It’s a vibrant ecosystem where wildlife and culture intertwine, providing a comprehensive glimpse into Africa’s heart. Whether it’s experiencing the Great Migration, encountering the Big Five, or delving into Maasai culture, the Mara is a testament to Kenya’s status as a host to some of the world’s most famous safari parks.

Samburu National Reserve: The Untamed North

Discovering the samburu special five.

In the remote, unspoiled landscapes of northern Kenya, the Samburu National Reserve emerges as a hidden gem among top safaris in Kenya. 

This reserve is celebrated for its ‘Samburu Special Five’ – a group of rare and unique species including the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx. 

These species, endemic to this region, provide a unique wildlife viewing experience, differentiating Samburu from other famous safari parks in Kenya.

A Contrast to the Mara’s Grasslands

Samburu’s terrain presents a striking contrast to the lush grasslands of the Maasai Mara. Its semi-arid landscape, characterized by rugged terrain and sparse vegetation, is bisected by the life-giving Ewaso Ng’iro River. 

This river not only sustains the reserve’s diverse wildlife but also creates a picturesque oasis in the midst of the arid surroundings, making it a highlight for those seeking the best safari in Kenya.

The Ewaso Ng’iro River: A Lifeline in the Wilderness

The Ewaso Ng’iro river, flowing through the heart of Samburu, is a vital water source in this arid region. It attracts many wildlife, especially during the dry season, offering spectacular game viewing opportunities. 

The riverbanks are frequented by elephants, lions, and leopards, providing an intimate and thrilling safari experience. Birdwatchers will also find this area a paradise, with numerous bird species adorning the riverine forest.

Embracing the Wilderness of Samburu

Samburu National Reserve, with its unique wildlife and dramatic landscapes, offers an authentic safari experience. 

It’s a place where the untamed beauty of nature is on full display, inviting adventurers to explore its hidden wonders. 

Whether it’s witnessing the rare Samburu Special Five, marveling at the landscape’s rugged beauty, or enjoying the tranquility along the Ewaso Ng’iro river, Samburu stands as a testament to the diverse and rich safari experiences that Kenya offers.

Crescent Island: A Walk with Wildlife

An unfenced encounter with nature.

Aerial view of Lake Naivasha’s Crescent Island

Crescent Island, nestled in the tranquil waters of Lake Naivasha, presents a unique facet of top safaris in Kenya. 

Unlike the typical game drives, this small, private sanctuary offers a rare opportunity to walk freely among wildlife. 

Here, you can stroll alongside giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests, experiencing the thrill of being close to these magnificent creatures without barriers. This intimate encounter with wildlife is a serene escape from the conventional safari experience and highlights the diversity of Kenya’s safari offerings.

The Charm of Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha, the freshwater lake that houses Crescent Island, adds to the allure of this destination. The lake’s rich avian life and scenic beauty make it a perfect spot for birdwatching and photography. 

As you explore Crescent Island, the backdrop of the shimmering Lake Naivasha enhances the experience, creating a peaceful harmony between land and water. 

This setting is a haven for wildlife and a retreat for those seeking a moment of tranquility amidst nature.

A Safe Haven for Wildlife

Crescent Island is a predator-free zone, allowing for the safe roaming of herbivores and providing a sanctuary. 

This aspect makes it an ideal location for families and individuals who wish to experience wildlife in a more relaxed and safe environment. 

The absence of predators also means that visitors can observe the natural behavior of these animals up close, making it a unique educational experience.

Connecting with Nature on Foot

Exploring Crescent Island on foot offers a more personal and engaging way to connect with nature. 

Walking safaris allow for a slower pace, giving visitors the chance to observe the smaller details of the ecosystem that are often missed during vehicle-based safaris. 

This immersive experience is what makes Crescent Island a must-visit for those looking to add a distinctive chapter to their Kenyan safari adventure.

Crescent Island in Lake Naivasha offers a unique and intimate wildlife experience. It stands out as a peaceful, walking safari destination amidst Kenya’s more traditional, vehicle-based safari locations. 

Whether it’s for the close encounters with giraffes and zebras or the serene beauty of Lake Naivasha, Crescent Island is a testament to the varied and rich experiences that Kenyan wildlife conservation efforts have nurtured.

Also read: Top 5 Game Reserves in Kenya: Hidden Gems

What Should I Pack for a Safari in Kenya?

Clothing essentials for comfort and protection.

When packing for a safari in Kenya, comfort and practicality should be your guiding principles. 

Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing that can handle the warm daytime and cooler evenings. 

Neutral colors like khaki, brown, and green are recommended as they blend well with the natural environment and are less likely to attract insects. 

Long-sleeved shirts and trousers offer protection from the sun and insects, making them essential for your Kenyan safari adventure.

Gear for Wildlife Viewing and Photography

Image: Hell’s Gate Kenya

A pair of high-quality binoculars is a must-have to enhance your wildlife viewing experience. 

For those interested in photography, a good camera with a zoom lens will help capture stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters. Remember, the best safari in Kenya is often about the details, so having the right gear can make all the difference in how you experience and document your journey.

Personal Comfort and Health Items

Remember to pack a wide-brimmed hat and high-SPF sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense African sun. 

Insect repellent is crucial to keep mosquitoes and other bugs at bay, especially in the evenings. It’s also wise to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during long game drives.

Preparing for Varied Weather Conditions

Kenya’s weather can vary, so packing layers is key. Early mornings and evenings can be cool, so include a warm fleece or jacket. 

A lightweight raincoat or poncho is also advisable, especially if you’re traveling during the rainy season. This way, you’re prepared for any weather conditions while exploring famous safari parks in Kenya.

Miscellaneous Essentials

Lastly, consider packing a small first-aid kit, a flashlight or headlamp, and extra batteries or a portable charger for your electronic devices. 

These items will ensure your comfort and safety, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Kenyan wildlife conservation and the unparalleled safari experience.

Embracing Sustainable Tourism in Kenya’s Safaris

Sustainable tourism is increasingly becoming a pivotal aspect of wildlife adventures, especially in destinations like Kenya, renowned for its top safaris. 

This approach not only enhances the safari experience but also ensures the conservation of the incredible biodiversity and natural beauty that Kenya is famous for. 

The Role of Eco-Lodges and Camps

In Kenya, numerous eco-lodges and camps are leading the way in sustainable tourism. These establishments are designed to minimize environmental impact while providing a comfortable and immersive safari experience. 

They often use renewable energy sources, implement waste reduction practices, and provide eco-friendly amenities. 

By staying in these lodges, visitors support businesses that prioritize the health of the planet and the well-being of local wildlife.

Community Involvement and Empowerment

Sustainable tourism in Kenya also involves the active participation of local communities. 

Many safari tours include visits to local villages, where travelers can learn about the culture and traditions of the indigenous people. 

This cultural exchange not only enriches the safari experience but also supports community development and empowerment. It’s a way for visitors to understand the intricate connection between the people and the wildlife, and how their choices can impact conservation efforts.

Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Kenya’s safari industry plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation. By choosing safaris that are committed to ethical and sustainable practices, tourists contribute to the protection of endangered species and habitats. 

This includes supporting anti-poaching initiatives, wildlife research, and habitat restoration projects. 

As a result, travelers not only enjoy the beauty of Kenya’s natural landscapes and wildlife but also become part of the vital effort to preserve them for future generations.

In embracing sustainable tourism, visitors to Kenya’s safaris can responsibly enjoy the wonders of the African wilderness. 

This approach ensures that the best safari in Kenya is about the thrill of wildlife encounters and preserving these experiences for the future. It’s a commitment to traveling with a purpose, where every safari adventure contributes to the greater good of Kenya’s natural heritage.

Top safaris in Kenya: The Tested and Proven Camps in the Wild

1.sarara camp, samburu.

Located in the Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy in northern Kenya, Sarara Camp is one of the top safaris in Kenya that offers a unique wilderness experience. 

This six-tent camp is known for its dramatic arrival via light aircraft, gliding through the Mathews Range. Visitors can witness elephants from as far as Ethiopia at the camp’s infinity pool and encounter reticulated giraffes on horseback rides. 

The nearby Reteti Elephant Orphanage, a community partnership, is a highlight, offering insights into local wildlife conservation efforts.  

2. Kicheche Bush Camp, Maasai Mara:

An award-winning camp in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, Kicheche Bush Camp is one of the top safaris in Kenya. It is adjacent to the Maasai Mara National Reserve. 

It’s a favorite among top wildlife photographers for its significant big-cat population and excellent game viewing opportunities. 

The camp features eight luxurious canvas tents and is known for its expert guides, communal dining, and family-like atmosphere.  

3. Asilia Rekero Camp, Maasai Mara

Overlooking the Talek River in the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Asilia Rekero Camp is one of the top safaris in Kenya that’s ideally positioned for the wildebeest migration. 

The camp offers nine rustic tents, several with river views, and a wooden dining deck for prime wildlife watching. It’s a hotspot for photographers, offering specialized vehicles for low-angle shots.

4. Lewa House, Lewa Conservancy

Situated in one of Kenya’s finest conservation areas, Lewa House is one of the top safaris in Kenya that offers a classic Kenyan safari experience. 

The lodge features fairytale stone cottages and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. Guests can join rangers in anti-poaching training sessions and visit Lewa’s control center to learn about conservation efforts.

5. Lengishu House, Borana Conservancy

Lengishu House is an exclusive-use property in the scenic Borana Conservancy, accommodating up to 12 guests. 

The house is one of the top safaris in Kenya that’s decorated with a blend of African fabrics, antique tapestries, and curio store finds. 

It offers soul-stirring views and includes a game-drive vehicle and guide. Visitors can arrange sundowners on nearby Lion Rock, a site made famous by Disney’s “The Lion King.”  

These locations offer diverse experiences, from intimate wildlife encounters to cultural insights, making them top choices for safaris in Kenya.

Final Thoughts

As we conclude our exploration of the top safaris in Kenya, it’s clear that each destination, from the famous Maasai Mara to the untamed Samburu, offers a distinct and unforgettable window into Africa’s wild heart. 

For someone like Sarah, who craves adventure and a deep connection with nature, these safaris are more than just a trip; they are a journey into the soul of the wilderness. 

Whether you’re drawn to the dramatic spectacle of the Great Migration, the unique wildlife of the Samburu Special Five, or the serene walks with giraffes on Crescent Island, Kenya’s safaris are a mosaic of awe-inspiring experiences. 

So, pack your spirit of adventure, bring along your camera, and prepare for an expedition that will etch itself into your heart forever, offering a transformational encounter with nature’s grandeur, not just a getaway.

FAQs About Top Safaris in Kenya

1. What is the best time to visit Maasai Mara for the Great Migration?

The best time is from July to October, when the wildebeest migration is in full swing.

2. Can I experience a safari in Kenya on a budget?

Yes, various budget-friendly options are available, including camping and affordable lodges.

3. Are walking safaris safe in Kenya?

Walking safaris, like the one on Crescent Island, are safe and guided by experienced rangers.

4. Is Wildlife Conservation a Part of Kenyan Safaris?

Yes, wildlife conservation is a significant aspect of Kenyan safaris. 

Many safari camps and lodges actively participate in conservation efforts, including anti-poaching initiatives and community-based conservation projects.

5. What Makes Samburu National Reserve Unique?

Samburu National Reserve is unique for its ‘Samburu Special Five’ – rare species like the Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe. 

Its semi-arid landscape offers a different safari experience compared to the lush Maasai Mara, making it a must-visit for those seeking the best safari in Kenya.

6. How Can I Ensure My Safari is Eco-Friendly?

Choose lodges and camps that practice sustainable tourism to ensure an eco-friendly safari. Look for accommodations that use renewable energy, support local communities, and have wildlife conservation programs. 

7. Are Kenyan Safaris Suitable for Families?

Yes, many safari destinations in Kenya are family-friendly. They offer educational activities for children, such as junior ranger programs, and accommodations that cater to families. 

8. What Should I Pack for a Safari in Kenya?

Essential items for a Kenyan safari include comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera, and insect repellent. It’s also advisable to bring layers for cooler mornings and evenings.

9. Can I Combine a Beach Holiday with My Safari in Kenya?

Absolutely! Kenya offers beautiful coastal destinations like Diani Beach, which can be easily combined with a safari trip. 

10. Is it Safe to Travel to Kenya for a Safari?

Kenya is generally safe for tourists, especially within the safari areas. However, it’s always wise to follow travel advisories, use reputable tour operators, and take standard safety precautions when traveling.

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Top Safari in Kenya Picks for Adventure Seekers

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HOLIDAY SAFARIS IN KENYA'S NATIONAL PARKS

Discover national parks, reserves & conservancies, kenya’s wild animal parks and reserves.

Or perhaps we should say worlds . Because Kenya’s parks cover every sort of landscape – from the red dust plains of Tsavo to the rolling savannahs of the golden Masai Mara Reserve. And there’s also Rift Valley lakes, alpine rainforests, and tropical jungle waiting for your first steps of exploration.

But not all safaris are on dry land. You can even swim, snorkel, and dive amongst dolphins in the brilliant lagoons and corral gardens of our Marine National Parks.

From the Big Cats to Chimpanzees

These amazing parks will bring you up close to brilliant worlds of wildlife –thousands of wildebeests rumbling forward in the Great Migration and prides of lions stalking their flow.

Endangered rhinos and chimps at protected reserves, invite your gaze and delight. Great herds of towering elephants show off their immense tusks at close range. Peacefully grazing antelope, gazelle, and giraffe invite closer inspection on walking and even bicycling safaris.

Picture yourself in a natural setting amongst nature’s most beautiful wildlife and we’ll take you to a park that will surpass even your imagination.

The Great Savannah Parks

Masai Mara National Reserve – You’ve probably heard of the Masai Mara – it’s Kenya’s most popular park, home of the Great Migration of wildebeests and zebras. It’s also where you’ll likely see the most lions and other predators.

The Tsavo Parks: East & West – These are Kenya’s oldest and largest reserves. Under their endless skies and over infinite plains you’ll find Africa’s Big Five, plus dozens of wildlife like giraffe, zebra, baboon, monkey, impala, and even crocodile.

The Elephant Parks

Amboseli National Park – Perhaps the best elephant gazing in the world is found in this photogenic park seated at the base of the great Mt. Kilimanjaro. This small park boasts guaranteed sightings of large-tusked elephants,

Samburu National Park – To the north, this wide-open reserve offers lots of parkland to discover its over 1000 elephants. Plus, opportunities to visit with the local communities of indigenous Samburu People.

The Sanctuary Parks

Lake Nakuru National Park – This beautiful Rift Valley lake offers voluminous birdlife and sometimes even pink flamingoes. But the protected sanctuary here will also bring you opportunities to see one of Kenya’s largest population of endangered black rhinos.

Ol Pejeta Wildlife Sanctuary – A versatile private reserve, Ol Pejeta is home to Africa’s Big Five. But what mainly puts it on the map are its two sanctuaries for threatened rhinos and orphaned and abused chimpanzees.

The Marine Parks

Kisite Mpunguti Marine National Park – Yes, Kenya is also a wildlife paradise–undersea! Want to swim with the dolphins and sea turtles? There are lots of opportunities to snorkel or dive at this great corral barrier reef.

Watamu Marine National Park – Take a water safari through the park’s colorful lagoons and brilliant coral gardens. You’ll find yourself playing amongst turtles, dolphins, and bright tropical fish.

The Unusual Parks

Nairobi National Park – Probably the only one of its kind – go on safari just minutes from downtown Nairobi. Lion, leopard, buffalo, and giraffe can be spotted with the skyscrapers of the city in the distance, framing the scene. Not a zoo or an attraction – it’s the real thing, just a quick trip from your hotel.

Aberdare National Park – This is a cool land of mountain streams, waterfalls, and highland rainforests. You’ll be looking for black rhino, antelope, baboon, monkey, and the bongo – a giant antelope that makes its home in the alpine bamboo forest.

Meru National Park – An often-overlooked park, the empty rolling hills and forest are a private treasure to be enjoyed. This untouristed spot offers lion, elephant, buffalo, zebra, black and white rhino, hippo, and crocodile.

You’ll find these and many more of Kenya’s famous wildlife parks listed below. Click on any one of them to learn further about the wildlife and features you’ll find on your safari to each park. Then contact us to book your Kenya safari holiday.

Our National Parks and Game Reserves

Nairobi National Park

Amboseli National Park

Masai Mara National Reserve

Lake nakuru national park.

Lake Naivasha

Ol Pejeta Wildlife Sanctuary

Tsavo East National Park

Tsavo West National Park

Hell’s Gate National Park

Kakamega Forest Reserve

Lake Bogoria National Reserve

Shimba Hills National Park

Samburu National Reserve

Aberdare National Park

Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve

Kisiti Mpunguti Marine Park & Reserve

Meru National Park

Mt. Kenya National Park

Our wildlife conservancies.

Mara North Conservancy

Olare Motorogi Conservancy

Mara Naboisho Conservancy

Ol Kinyei Conservancy

Mara Triangle Conservancy

Mara Siana Conservancy

Lemek Conservancy

Lewa Conservancy

Kenya national park facts.

Want to discover more about Kenya’s captivating national parks? Our quick Q&A guide will help you with useful facts and information about Kenya National Parks and their wildlife, conservation, history, and just what makes them an unmissable safari destinations!

What are the national parks in Kenya?

Kenya is blessed with an incredible array of national parks that showcase the country’s natural wonders and safeguard its diverse wildlife. National parks serve as protected areas that preserve the ecological balance, promote conservation, and offer visitors a chance to experience the beauty of Kenya’s landscapes and wildlife up close.

Kenya national parks offer sanctuary for wildlife

These national parks are carefully managed to ensure the preservation of habitats and the sustainability of wildlife populations. They play a crucial role in protecting endangered species, maintaining biodiversity, and safeguarding the delicate ecosystems that exist within their boundaries. National parks provide a sanctuary for wildlife to thrive and allow for scientific research and educational opportunities.

Stunning landscapes

When visiting Kenya’s national parks, you can expect to be immersed in stunning landscapes that range from vast savannahs to dense forests, from towering mountains to serene lakes. These parks offer a chance to witness the magnificent African wildlife in their natural habitats. From iconic animals like elephants, lions, and rhinos to an incredible array of bird species, the parks are teeming with life and offer unparalleled wildlife viewing experiences.

Fantastic visitor facilities

The national parks also provide various amenities and facilities to enhance visitors’ experiences. These may include well-maintained trails, picnic areas, campsites, lodges, and guided safari tours. Expert guides and rangers are available to ensure the safety of visitors and provide valuable insights into the park’s flora, fauna, and conservation efforts.

Explore Kenya’s national parks with Africa Kenya Safaris

Exploring Kenya’s national parks with Africa Kenya Safaris offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of the African wilderness. Whether embarking on a thrilling game drive, enjoying a guided walking safari, or simply taking in the awe-inspiring landscapes, these national parks provide an unforgettable adventure while contributing to the preservation of Kenya’s natural heritage.

What are the best national parks to visit in Kenya?

Each national park in Kenya offers distinct attractions, making them appealing to different types of safari holidaymakers. Whether you seek the drama of the wildebeest migration, the majestic presence of elephants, the wild beauty of Tsavo, or the rare encounters in Samburu, Africa Kenya Safaris can tailor your safari experience to your preferences, ensuring an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Kenya’s national parks. Here are some of the best national parks you can visit in Kenya on safari:

1. Maasai Mara National Reserve: Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration

Maasai Mara National Reserve is undoubtedly one of the best national parks to visit in Kenya, offering an extraordinary wildlife spectacle: the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every year, millions of wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, embark on a remarkable journey from Tanzania’s Serengeti to Kenya’s Maasai Mara in search of fresh grazing grounds. This awe-inspiring migration, with dramatic river crossings and predator-prey interactions, attracts wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers from around the world.

2. Amboseli National Park: Encounter Majestic Elephants and Mount Kilimanjaro

For those seeking breathtaking views and iconic wildlife encounters, Amboseli National Park is a must-visit destination. Located at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, Amboseli offers a stunning backdrop for wildlife photography. The park is famous for its large elephant herds, which can be observed up close as they traverse the open plains against the backdrop of Kilimanjaro. Other notable wildlife includes lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of bird species.

3. Tsavo National Park: Discover the Vast Wilderness and Red Elephants

Tsavo National Park, divided into Tsavo East and Tsavo West, is a paradise for adventurers and those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path safari experience. With its rugged terrain, diverse landscapes, and incredible wildlife, Tsavo offers a unique safari adventure. The park is renowned for its “red elephants,” which appear dusted in red soil. Visitors can also spot lions, leopards, rhinos, giraffes, and numerous bird species as they explore this vast wilderness.

4. Samburu National Reserve: Encounter Rare Species and Cultural Richness

Samburu National Reserve beckons those in search of unique wildlife encounters and cultural experiences. This park is home to the “Samburu Special Five,” a collection of rare and endemic species that include the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, beisa oryx, and gerenuk antelope. The reserve’s arid landscapes and meandering rivers provide a stunning backdrop for wildlife sightings. Additionally, visitors can engage with the local Samburu tribe, known for their rich cultural heritage.

How many national parks are there in Kenya?

Kenya is home to a remarkable collection of 25 national parks, each offering unique landscapes, wildlife, and safari experiences. This extensive range of national parks sets Kenya apart as a premier safari destination in Africa. Comparatively, other countries may have a smaller number of national parks, and along with its sheer number of parks, Kenya’s diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife make it a top choice for nature enthusiasts.

Explore the national parks of Kenya

Exploring the national parks in Kenya may seem like a daunting task, but Africa Kenya Safaris simplifies the process and makes it easy for travelers to embark on a comprehensive safari adventure. With their expertly crafted itineraries and personalized services, Africa Kenya Safaris ensures that visitors can discover the splendour of the best national parks without the stress of planning and logistics.

Top safari experiences with knowledgeable national park guides

Whether you dream of witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration in Maasai Mara National Reserve, gazing at the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli National Park, or venturing into the untamed wilderness of Tsavo National Park, Africa Kenya Safaris has you covered. Their knowledgeable guides and well-designed safari packages allow you to explore the diversity of Kenya’s national parks with ease and comfort.

Choose Africa Kenya Safaris for the perfect national park experience

By choosing Africa Kenya Safaris, you can seamlessly navigate the vast landscapes and incredible wildlife encounters that each national park has to offer. From the picturesque savannahs of Maasai Mara to the rugged terrains of Tsavo, Africa Kenya Safaris ensures that your journey through Kenya’s national parks is filled with unforgettable moments and lifelong memories.

How much of Kenya is national parks and reserves?

The combined area of Kenya’s national parks and reserves spans over approximately 7.5% of the country’s total land area. This equates to thousands of square kilometers of protected wilderness, offering a sanctuary for a rich variety of flora and fauna. These national parks are carefully designated and managed to maintain the delicate balance of ecosystems and ensure the survival of endangered species.

National parks for sustainable tourism

In comparison to the vastness of Kenya’s overall land area, the extent of national parks showcases the nation’s commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism. With over 50 national parks and reserves, including world-renowned destinations like Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo, Kenya presents a remarkable mosaic of protected areas that attract wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers from around the globe.

Explore national parks with Africa Kenya Safaris

When you embark on a safari with Africa Kenya Safaris, you’ll have the opportunity to explore these incredible national parks, traverse their diverse landscapes, and witness the splendour of wildlife in their natural habitats. Immerse yourself in the vast savannahs, lush forests, and picturesque lakes that make up Kenya’s national parks, and experience firsthand the remarkable conservation efforts that contribute to the preservation of this precious ecosystem.

What animals can be seen in Kenya wildlife parks?

Kenya’s wildlife parks are teeming with a remarkable diversity of animals, making it an exceptional destination for wildlife enthusiasts and safari lovers. From iconic species like elephants, lions, and giraffes to rare and endemic creatures, the parks offer an incredible opportunity to witness the wonders of African wildlife in their natural habitats.

Diverse Wildlife in Kenya’s Parks: A Haven for Nature Lovers

Kenya’s wildlife parks are home to an extensive range of animal species, showcasing the country’s rich biodiversity. The parks encompass vast savannahs, dense forests, picturesque lakes, and diverse ecosystems, providing habitats for a wide array of wildlife. Visitors can witness thrilling predator-prey interactions, captivating birdlife, and the majestic presence of large herbivores roaming the plains. The parks are carefully managed to ensure the conservation of these precious species and their habitats.

Ten Must-See Animals in Kenya’s Wildlife Parks

• Lions : Kenya’s parks are renowned for their lion populations, offering fantastic opportunities to observe these apex predators in action.
• Elephants : Amboseli National Park and Tsavo National Park are known for their large elephant herds, providing unforgettable encounters with these gentle giants.
• Giraffes : The graceful giraffes can be spotted in various parks, including Nairobi National Park and Maasai Mara, offering a chance to marvel at their towering presence.
• Cheetahs : Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Park are ideal for spotting cheetahs, the world’s fastest land animals, showcasing their incredible speed and agility.
• Rhinos : Ol Pejeta Conservancy and Lake Nakuru National Park are key locations for rhino conservation, providing opportunities to witness these endangered species up close.
• Wildebeest : Maasai Mara National Reserve hosts the epic Great Wildebeest Migration, where millions of these iconic animals traverse the plains in search of greener pastures.
• Zebras : Often seen mingling with wildebeest during the migration, zebras add a striking contrast to the savannah landscapes and are abundant in many parks.
• Hippos : Lakes and rivers within parks, such as Lake Naivasha and Tsavo, are home to large hippo populations, allowing for close encounters with these fascinating creatures.
• Leopards : While elusive, leopards can be found in parks like Maasai Mara and Samburu, rewarding patient safari-goers with glimpses of their unparalleled beauty.
• African Buffalo : These formidable beasts can be observed in several parks, including Nairobi National Park, showcasing their strength and resilience in the African wilderness.

Embarking on a safari with Africa Kenya Safaris offers an opportunity to encounter these incredible animals and more. Their expert guides and well-planned itineraries ensure that visitors can witness the diverse wildlife of Kenya’s parks while gaining a deeper understanding of the importance of conservation and sustainable tourism.

What landmarks and natural wonders can be seen in Kenya’s national parks?

Kenya’s national parks are not only home to incredible wildlife but also boast a diverse array of landmarks and natural wonders that will leave visitors in awe. From majestic mountains and scenic lakes to dramatic gorges and ancient archaeological sites, these parks offer a captivating blend of natural and cultural marvels. Embarking on a safari in Kenya provides a unique opportunity to explore these stunning landscapes and discover the hidden gems within each national park.

Diverse Landscapes and Natural Wonders of Kenya’s National Parks

Kenya’s national parks encompass a wide range of landscapes, showcasing the country’s geographical diversity. From the iconic savannahs of Maasai Mara to the rugged terrains of Mount Kenya National Park, visitors are treated to a mesmerizing tapestry of landscapes. These parks also feature extraordinary natural wonders that captivate the imagination and provide a deeper appreciation for the beauty of the natural world.

Ten Must-See Landmarks and Natural Wonders in Kenya’s National Parks

• Mount Kilimanjaro : Though technically located in Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peaks can be seen from Amboseli National Park, creating a breathtaking backdrop for wildlife sightings.
• Great Rift Valley : Stretching across several parks, including Lake Nakuru and Hell’s Gate, the Great Rift Valley offers dramatic vistas, hot springs, and unique geological formations.
• Lake Naivasha : This freshwater lake in Hell’s Gate National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with a rich avian population and opportunities for boat safaris.
• Hell’s Gate Gorge: A remarkable feature within Hell’s Gate National Park, this narrow gorge offers adventurous activities like hiking, rock climbing, and cycling.
• Mount Kenya : Africa’s second-highest peak, Mount Kenya National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring diverse ecosystems, pristine lakes, and unique montane flora.
• Chyulu Hills : Located within Tsavo West National Park, the Chyulu Hills are a volcanic mountain range characterized by lush greenery, ancient lava flows, and hidden caves.
• Lake Turkana : Also known as the “Jade Sea,” Lake Turkana in Sibiloi National Park is the world’s largest alkaline lake, known for its striking turquoise color and fossil-rich shores.
• Sheldrick Falls : Situated in Tsavo East National Park, these captivating falls cascade down rocky cliffs, providing a refreshing oasis amidst the arid landscapes.
• Pillar Rock : Found in Tsavo West National Park, Pillar Rock is an impressive granite outcrop that serves as a natural landmark and offers panoramic views of the surrounding plains.
• Koobi Fora : Located within Sibiloi National Park, Koobi Fora is an important archaeological site renowned for its fossil discoveries, including early hominid remains.

Exploring these remarkable landmarks and natural wonders is made easy with Africa Kenya Safaris. Their expert guides and well-crafted itineraries ensure that visitors can experience the diverse landscapes and cultural treasures that Kenya’s national parks have to offer, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Is there accommodation in Kenya national parks?

Yes, and staying within Kenya’s national parks is a truly immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully embrace the natural wonders and wildlife that these pristine environments have to offer. Accommodation options within the parks provide an opportunity to connect with nature on a deeper level, offering breathtaking views, exclusive access to wildlife, and a sense of tranquility that is hard to replicate elsewhere. Africa Kenya Safaris offers a range of unique and comfortable accommodations within the national parks, ensuring an unforgettable stay amidst the beauty of the African wilderness.

Immersive Accommodation in Kenya’s National Parks

Staying within a national park offers numerous advantages, including the chance to witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the savannah, the convenience of being in close proximity to wildlife-rich areas, and the serenity of being surrounded by untouched natural landscapes. Whether it’s waking up to the distant roar of lions or enjoying a sundowner with elephants grazing nearby, accommodation within Kenya’s national parks provides an authentic and unforgettable safari experience.

Unique Places to Stay with Africa Kenya Safaris

• Tented Camps in Maasai Mara : Experience the charm of traditional safari accommodation with luxurious tented camps nestled in the Maasai Mara National Reserve. These camps offer an authentic bush experience while ensuring modern comforts and conveniences. Imagine falling asleep to the sounds of wildlife just beyond your canvas walls and waking up to stunning views of the savannah. With attentive staff, delectable cuisine, and proximity to wildlife-rich areas, these tented camps offer an unforgettable stay in the heart of Maasai Mara.
• Salt Lick Safari Lodge (Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary) : Situated in the heart of a private wildlife sanctuary, this unique lodge offers exceptional views and an immersive safari experience. The lodge’s elevated walkways allow for close encounters with animals as they come to drink from the nearby waterholes. Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodation, delectable cuisine, and thrilling game drives in this remarkable sanctuary.
• Ashnil Samburu Camp (Samburu National Reserve) : Located in the arid landscapes of Samburu National Reserve, this camp offers a blend of modern comfort and traditional African charm. The spacious tents feature en-suite bathrooms and private balconies overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River, where elephants and other wildlife come to quench their thirst. The camp also offers cultural experiences with the local Samburu tribe, adding an enriching dimension to the safari adventure.

Africa Kenya Safaris ensures that these accommodations within the national parks are carefully selected to provide guests with the utmost comfort, convenience, and immersion in the natural surroundings. With their expertise in crafting personalized itineraries, visitors can choose from a range of accommodation options that suit their preferences and make their stay in Kenya’s national parks truly extraordinary.

What new and unique activities can be enjoyed in Kenya’s national parks?

Exploring Kenya’s national parks goes beyond traditional game drives, offering a plethora of new and unique activities that allow visitors to truly immerse themselves in the natural wonders of this captivating country. From thrilling adventure pursuits to cultural encounters, these activities provide an enriching and unforgettable safari experience. Africa Kenya Safaris offers a range of exciting and curated activities that add an extra layer of adventure and exploration to your national park visit.

New and Unique Activities in Kenya’s National Parks: Elevating Your Safari Experience

• Hot Air Balloon Safaris in Maasai Mara : Embark on an exhilarating hot air balloon safari over the vast plains of Maasai Mara National Reserve . Drifting silently above the savannah at dawn, you’ll witness breathtaking panoramic views and have the opportunity to spot wildlife from a unique vantage point. As the golden sunlight blankets the landscape, you’ll capture unforgettable moments and create memories that will last a lifetime. After the balloon ride, enjoy a delicious bush breakfast in the wilderness, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
• Walking Safaris in Aberdare National Park : Lace up your boots and set off on a walking safari in Aberdare National Park, immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the bush. Accompanied by experienced guides, you’ll navigate through diverse ecosystems, following animal tracks and discovering hidden gems along the way. This intimate and eco-friendly experience allows you to observe wildlife up close, learn about the intricate details of the ecosystem, and appreciate the smaller wonders of nature that may go unnoticed on a typical game drive.
• Cultural Encounters in Amboseli National Park : Experience the rich cultural heritage of the Maasai people with a visit to a Maasai village near Amboseli National Park. Engage in authentic interactions with the Maasai community, learn about their traditional way of life, and gain insights into their customs, ceremonies, and crafts. From traditional dances and songs to witnessing the Maasai’s deep connection with their land and wildlife, this cultural encounter offers a unique perspective on the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature.

Africa Kenya Safaris ensures that your national park experience is enhanced with these new and unique activities. Whether you’re soaring high above the savannah in a hot air balloon, embarking on a walking safari through the wilderness, or immersing yourself in the vibrant Maasai culture, these activities provide a deeper connection with Kenya’s natural and cultural treasures.

Why did the government of Kenya establish national parks and reserves?

The establishment of national parks and reserves in Kenya by the government serves a vital purpose in preserving the country’s natural treasures, safeguarding wildlife, and promoting sustainable tourism. These protected areas are a testament to Kenya’s commitment to conservation, ensuring the long-term survival of its diverse ecosystems and iconic wildlife species. The government of Kenya recognizes the significance of these natural habitats and has taken proactive measures to establish national parks and reserves for various important reasons.

Preserving Biodiversity and Wildlife

One of the primary reasons for establishing national parks and reserves is to conserve the rich biodiversity and safeguard the remarkable wildlife found within Kenya’s borders. These protected areas act as havens for numerous endangered species, providing them with secure habitats and protection from human activities such as poaching and habitat destruction. By designating specific areas as national parks and reserves, the government aims to maintain ecological balance and ensure the survival of diverse plant and animal species for future generations.

Promoting Conservation and Research

National parks and reserves serve as living laboratories for scientific research and conservation efforts. These areas provide researchers, scientists, and conservationists with invaluable opportunities to study and understand various ecosystems, conduct wildlife research, and develop effective conservation strategies. By promoting research and conservation initiatives, the government of Kenya aims to enhance knowledge about the natural world and implement measures to protect and sustainably manage its natural resources.

Supporting Sustainable Tourism

Another crucial objective behind the establishment of national parks and reserves is to promote sustainable tourism in Kenya. These protected areas attract millions of tourists each year, who come to witness the breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and unique cultural experiences. By conserving the natural environment and wildlife habitats, the government ensures the long-term viability of the tourism industry, which plays a significant role in the country’s economy. National parks and reserves provide opportunities for responsible tourism, where visitors can appreciate nature’s wonders while supporting local communities and contributing to conservation efforts.

The government of Kenya’s commitment to establishing national parks and reserves reflects its dedication to environmental stewardship, wildlife conservation, and sustainable tourism. These protected areas serve as a testament to Kenya’s natural beauty and provide a platform for safeguarding its diverse ecosystems, preserving wildlife habitats, and offering unforgettable experiences for visitors from around the world.

Who owns the national parks in Kenya?

The national parks in Kenya are owned and managed by the Kenyan government. The government of Kenya, through various agencies such as the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), plays a crucial role in overseeing the administration, conservation, and protection of these invaluable natural assets. The ownership of national parks signifies the government’s commitment to safeguarding Kenya’s wildlife and ecosystems for the benefit of present and future generations.

Duties of the Kenya Wildlife Service

As the custodian of these national parks, the Kenyan government formulates policies, regulations, and management plans to ensure the effective preservation and sustainable use of these protected areas. The Kenya Wildlife Service , a government agency established specifically for wildlife conservation and management, works diligently to enforce these policies and safeguard the integrity of the national parks.

Preserving Kenya’s heritage

The government’s ownership of national parks reflects its dedication to preserving Kenya’s natural heritage and fostering responsible tourism. By having ownership and control over these protected areas, the government can implement measures to combat illegal activities, such as poaching and habitat destruction, and enforce regulations that promote sustainable practices.

Protecting Kenya’s national parks for future generations

In collaboration with various stakeholders, including local communities, conservation organizations, and tour operators like Africa Kenya Safaris, the government strives to protect the national parks while also ensuring that they contribute to the socio-economic development of the country. This ownership model allows for the effective management of the parks and facilitates partnerships that support conservation efforts, community engagement, and sustainable tourism practices.

How do Kenya national parks help conservation?

Kenya’s national parks play a vital role in the conservation of its rich biodiversity and the protection of its iconic wildlife. These protected areas are instrumental in safeguarding natural habitats, implementing conservation initiatives, and promoting sustainable practices. Here’s how Kenya national parks contribute to conservation efforts:

Preserving Wildlife and Habitats

National parks provide crucial sanctuaries for a wide array of wildlife species, including endangered and threatened ones. By designating specific areas as protected, the government ensures the preservation of habitats essential for the survival and breeding of these animals. National parks act as safe havens, safeguarding wildlife from human encroachment, poaching, and habitat loss.

Anti-Poaching and Wildlife Protection

Kenya national parks are at the forefront of the fight against poaching and illegal wildlife trade. Dedicated anti-poaching units, supported by the government and conservation organizations, work tirelessly to combat poaching activities within the parks. They employ various strategies such as increased surveillance, ranger patrols, and collaboration with local communities to detect and deter illegal activities. By actively protecting wildlife, national parks contribute significantly to the conservation and preservation of Kenya’s natural heritage.

Conservation Education and Research

National parks in Kenya serve as educational platforms, raising awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship. These parks offer visitors the opportunity to learn about the diverse ecosystems, wildlife behavior, and conservation challenges through interpretive centers, guided tours, and educational programs. Additionally, national parks provide valuable sites for scientific research, enabling scientists and researchers to study wildlife, monitor ecosystems, and develop strategies for long-term conservation.

Promoting Sustainable Tourism

Kenya national parks strike a delicate balance between conservation and tourism. They provide unique opportunities for visitors to witness the country’s breathtaking landscapes and remarkable wildlife while promoting responsible and sustainable tourism practices. By generating revenue through tourism activities, national parks contribute to the local economy, empowering communities and creating incentives for conservation efforts. Sustainable tourism initiatives ensure that visitor activities have minimal impact on the environment, while supporting local communities and conservation projects.

Through these collective efforts, Kenya national parks play a pivotal role in conserving wildlife, protecting habitats, raising awareness, and promoting sustainable practices. Their commitment to conservation is essential in preserving Kenya’s natural treasures for future generations to enjoy.

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The Best Safari Destinations in Kenya

Amboseli national park.

Great For : Elephants beneath Mount Kilimanjaro ; easy first-time safari.

Highlights : Accessibility, elephants, the mix of safari activities.

Is there a more poignant safari image than a herd of elephants roaming beneath Mount Kilimanjaro? That’s the highlight of Amboseli , a relatively small park with a lot to offer.

The mix of safari activities makes it a good first-time safari stop and it’s best to spend two or three days so you can try it all out. Expect incredible photos and wildlife viewing, with most of Africa’s famous animals (except for rhino) in one place.

Best Time to Visit Amboseli : June to September is best but it can feel very crowded in July and August. January to March before the rains is also prime.

Also Consider : The elephants of Chobe National Park (in Botswana).

Combine With : The Maasai Mara.

Lake Nakuru National Park

Great For : An easy one-day safari.

Highlights : Black and white rhinos plus a million flamingos.

Lake Nakuru is amongst the very best places to spot rhinos in East Africa . Although the park doesn’t always have that raw and wild feel synonymous with the rest of Kenya, seeing black and white rhinos in one place is incredibly rare.

The rest of the big five can also be found, along with a lake that’s coloured pink by all the flamingos . With its location and size, Nakuru becomes a popular stopping point on a longer Kenyan itinerary, although we’d recommend spending the night so you can go looking for leopards on a sunrise drive.

Best Time to Visit Lake Nakuru National Park : This is a year-round destination.

Also Consider : Kruger for rhinos (in South Africa).

Combine With : Any of the other Kenya safari destinations .

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Ol Pejeta Conservancy and Other Conservancies in Central Kenya

Great For : Luxury Kenyan safari.

Highlights : Intimacy with the big five ; wildlife conservation; personal encounters.

A number of private conservancies are found in the heart of Kenya, nestled in wilderness areas that allow a wide range of wildlife to thrive. Lewa and Ol Pejeta are the most famous and the best for luxury and service, not to mention the intensity of wildlife encounters .

For a short three-day safari it’s a great chance to get close to so many different animals, without jumping out of your comfort zone. These are both fairly expensive though, not least because of the presence of black rhinos and chimpanzees .

Also consider conservancies nearby like Ol Jogi , Borana , Lekurruki and Leparua . They have more of a community feel, along with all the weird and wonderful wildlife.

Best Time to Visit Lewa Wildlife Conservancy : With their conservation programs and varied habitats, these conservancies work as year-round destinations.

Also Consider : A private concession in Samburu for a wilder safari.

Combine With : Samburu and Maasai Mara for a classic Kenyan safari experience.

Maasai Mara

Great For : The abundance of animals, particularly big cats; great wildebeest migration July to September.

Highlights : Watching cats prowling and hunting; wildebeest crossing the Mara River; grasslands that look like Disney’s Lion King.

One of Africa’s most evocative images, the Maasai Mara is where gazelle, wildebeest and zebra play on seemingly endless grasslands . In season there are well over a million ungulates here, which naturally supports a magnificent abundance of predators .

For big cat viewing there are few better places, especially because the predators (other than vultures and hyenas) don’t actually follow the migration, but stay in the Maasai Mara to protect their home territories.

The main national reserve provides entry-level safaris; we’d recommend considering one of the smaller private concessions as well , which offer heightened exclusivity and a chance to go off the trail and get closer to the predators.

Yes the Maasai Mara is famous, for the herds , the cats , the hot air ballooning and the landscapes . And yes it’s popular. But that’s for very good reason.

Best Time to Visit the Maasai Mara : From July to September the great wildebeest migration charges over the Mara River to graze in the Maasai Mara. Naturally this is the peak time to visit but the park gets very busy. Not all the animals migrate and you can enjoy a more personal experience outside the migration months.

Also Consider : Tanzania’s Serengeti is part of the same ecosystem but is larger, so it can absorb peak season visitors a little easier.

Combine With : Amboseli or Samburu for a two-stop safari; Tanzania’s northern circuit for a 10 – 12-day safari.

Samburu National Reserve

Great For : Wilderness experiences and a complete escape from the world.

Highlights : Being guided by Samburu warriors; superb high-end accommodation; walking safaris and mixed safari programs.

The Samburu is one of Africa’s great wilderness areas . Found in the north of Kenya it’s a land that’s still dominated by the Samburu tribe , along with all manner of wildlife that call this elevated plateau home. The experience is about going off the beaten track , rather than ticking animals off your list.

You’ll want at least three days and you shouldn’t miss the walking safaris , which could be anything from two hours to two weeks. If it’s wilderness you seek then the Samburu dances to the beat of old, wild Africa.

The accommodation elevates the experience, whether it’s a community-style camp or one of the hyper-exclusive camps perched above the plains.

Best Time to Visit Samburu National Reserve : It’s probably best to avoid the main rainy months of April and May. The rest of the year is great; January to March is probably the ultimate time to go.

Also Consider : Southern Tanzania for really wild and lesser-known safari.

Combine With : The Maasai Mara and then one of Kenya’s Indian Ocean beach destinations, like Malindi or Diani.

Tsavo East and Tsavo West

Great For : Combining safari with the beach.

Highlights : The unpredictability and ease of the safari.

Two vast parks separated by a major railway and road , Tsavo isn’t the ultimate destination in Africa, nor Kenya. But there’s magic here , especially if you can spend more than one night.

Animals revolve around permanent waterholes and you’ll come across a wide sweep of famous mammals (other than rhino), given a little patience.

The great benefit is accessibility. Kenya’s coastline of white sand is as good, if not better than any Indian Ocean island (including the Maldives). Holiday on the beach and you can easily include a short Tsavo safari to complement the escape.

Best Time to Visit Tsavo West and Tsavo East : The same as the best time to visit the coast. December to March and June to September.

Also Consider : A holiday in Tanzania mixing Zanzibar beaches with the Serengeti.

Combine With : The beach!

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Guide

15 Best Game Reserves And Safari Parks In Kenya

Published: September 22, 2023

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Doe Herrin

• Africa & Middle East
• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Destinations
• Travel Tips

When it comes to experiencing the thrill of wildlife and embarking on unforgettable adventures, Kenya is a destination that stands out from the crowd. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Kenya has become a top choice for those seeking an authentic safari experience. The country boasts a remarkable collection of game reserves and safari parks, each offering unique encounters with some of the most iconic animals on the planet.

In this article, we will explore the 15 best game reserves and safari parks in Kenya, providing a comprehensive guide for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you are searching for the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos – or hoping to witness the awe-inspiring wildebeest migration, Kenya’s game reserves and safari parks offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of the natural world.

Masai Mara National Reserve

The Masai Mara National Reserve is undoubtedly one of the most famous safari destinations in Kenya. It is home to an incredible concentration of wildlife, including the renowned Big Five – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos. The annual wildebeest migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River, is a sight to behold.

Amboseli National Park

Situated at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park offers breathtaking views of Africa’s highest mountain. Known for its large elephant herds, Amboseli provides unique opportunities for up-close encounters with these majestic creatures. The park also boasts an impressive variety of bird species and other wildlife.

Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve, located in the arid northern part of Kenya , offers a distinctive safari experience. With its rare wildlife species such as the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, and reticulated giraffe, Samburu provides a chance to encounter animals rarely seen in other parks. The Ewaso Ng’iro River flows through the reserve, creating a lush oasis attracting diverse wildlife.

Lake Nakuru National Park

Famous for its pink-hued shores created by thousands of flamingos, Lake Nakuru National Park is a bird lover’s paradise. Besides the flamingos, the park is home to a wide range of bird species and serves as a sanctuary for both black and white rhinos. The park also offers captivating views of the Great Rift Valley and hosts various wildlife including buffalos, zebras, and giraffes.

Mt. Kenya National Park

Nestled around the majestic Mount Kenya, the national park offers awe-inspiring landscapes and diverse wildlife. Visitors can embark on thrilling hikes to summit Mount Kenya or explore the lower slopes with expert guides. The park also provides a habitat for rare animal species like the bongo antelope, as well as elephants, buffalos, and various bird species.

Tsavo East National Park

As one of the largest national parks in Kenya, Tsavo East is known for its untamed wilderness and expansive plains. With its red elephants and diverse wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, and giraffes, Tsavo East offers a true African safari experience. The park also boasts natural attractions such as the spectacular Lugard Falls and the stunning Aruba Dam.

Aberdare National Park

The Aberdare National Park is a magnificent high-altitude park renowned for its scenic beauty and abundant wildlife. The park is home to elusive animals like the bongo antelope, as well as elephants, buffalos, and leopards. Visitors can embark on game drives, hikes, or even stay in unique treehouse accommodations for an unforgettable experience.

Meru National Park

Located in the eastern part of Kenya, Meru National Park offers a diverse ecosystem including riverine areas, savannah grasslands, and wooded valleys. The park is home to an array of wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, and giraffes. Visitors can also explore the Tana River, go bird-watching, or even visit Elsa’s Kopje, the lodge made famous by the book and film “Born Free”.

Amboseli Conservation Area

Adjacent to Amboseli National Park, the Amboseli Conservation Area is dedicated to preserving the magnificent wildlife and habitats of the region. It offers opportunities for nature walks, game drives, and guided bush walks, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of this unique ecosystem.

Maasai Mara Conservancies

Alongside the Masai Mara National Reserve, the Maasai Mara Conservancies provide exclusive and intimate safari experiences. These private conservancies offer a more secluded and personalized encounter with wildlife, as well as the chance to support local communities and conservation efforts.

Tsavo West National Park

Located on the western side of Tsavo, Tsavo West National Park is a hidden gem with stunning natural attractions. From the famous Mzima Springs, where hippos and crocodiles can be viewed underwater, to the breathtaking lava flows of the Chaimu Crater, the park offers a unique blend of wildlife and geological wonders.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a pioneering wildlife conservancy in Kenya, known for its commitment to conservation and community development. It is home to the largest population of black rhinos in East Africa and also provides sanctuary to endangered species such as chimpanzees. Visitors can enjoy game drives, guided walks, and even engage in conservation activities.

Amboseli Trust for Elephants

Founded in 1972, the Amboseli Trust for Elephants is dedicated to the preservation and protection of elephants in the Amboseli ecosystem. Visitors can learn about elephant behavior, conservation efforts, and even witness the incredible sight of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

The Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is a private wildlife reserve renowned for its conservation efforts and sustainable tourism practices. This protected area is home to various wildlife including the critically endangered Grevy’s zebra and black rhinos. Visitors can partake in game drives, bush walks, and even visit local Maasai communities.

Laikipia Plateau

Stretching across the central highlands of Kenya, the Laikipia Plateau is a conservation success story. The region is home to numerous private and community-based conservancies that aim to protect wildlife and support local communities. Visitors can enjoy horseback safaris, camel rides, and experience authentic African hospitality.

These 15 best game reserves and safari parks in Kenya offer a magical opportunity to witness the beauty and wonder of Africa’s wildlife up close. Whether it’s witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Masai Mara or spotting elusive creatures in the Samburu National Reserve, each park provides a unique and unforgettable safari experience. So, pack your bags and embark on an adventure of a lifetime in the “15 Best Game Reserves and Safari Parks in Kenya”.

Kenya offers some of the best game reserves and safari parks in the world. With its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, it is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. From the iconic Maasai Mara National Reserve to the lesser-known gems like Samburu National Reserve and Tsavo East National Park, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Visitors to Kenya’s game reserves and safari parks can expect thrilling game drives, close encounters with the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and Cape buffalo), and breathtaking views of the African savannah. The knowledgeable guides and rangers ensure a memorable experience by sharing interesting facts about the wildlife and their habitats.

Whether you are a photography enthusiast, a family looking for an educational adventure, or a nature lover seeking tranquility, Kenya’s game reserves and safari parks have something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your binoculars, and embark on an unforgettable journey amidst the wonders of the Kenyan wilderness.

1. What is the best time to visit Kenya’s game reserves and safari parks?

The best time to visit is during the dry season, which is from June to October. This is when the wildlife congregates around water sources, making it easier to spot them.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Kenya?

Yes, most visitors require a visa to enter Kenya. It is advisable to check the visa requirements before traveling to ensure a smooth entry into the country.

3. Are children allowed on safari?

Yes, children are allowed on safari. However, it is important to choose a family-friendly safari lodge or camp that caters to the needs of children and provides a safe environment.

4. Can I go on a walking safari in Kenya?

Yes, some game reserves in Kenya offer guided walking safaris. It is a unique experience that allows you to get closer to nature and observe the smaller details of the wilderness.

5. Can I see the Great Migration in Kenya?

Yes, Kenya is one of the best places to witness the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra. The Maasai Mara National Reserve is known for its dramatic river crossings during this annual event.

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SAFARI GUIDE TO KENYA​

Kenya's best safari parks and when to go.

There are countless reasons why Kenya is one of the most beloved travel destinations in Africa, and many of these reasons can be found in Kenya’s breathtakingly beautiful national parks.  

From the extensive savanna of Masai Mara to the lively streets of Nairobi, adventure lies ahead at every turn.  

Journey on foot to watch wildlife at Lake Naivasha, witness elephant herds crossing against the backdrop of Mt. Kilimanjaro at Amboseli National Park, or sleep under the stars in luxury in the Laikipia Plateau.

Below, explore some of Kenya’s most popular national parks, reserves, sanctuaries, and safari destinations.  And be sure to explore the many reasons we love Kenya on our country guide , or browse some of our existing safaris in Kenya for inspiration.  Ready to start planning your safari?  Just get in touch with us. 

When to Visit Kenya

The most popular times to visit Kenya fall between June-October and December-February, to take advantage of wildlife viewing during the drier months. 

While Kenya’s temperatures vary more widely depending on the altitude and location, the following averages are a useful guide.

14° C |  27° C

June-October

13° C |  27° C

November-December

SHORT RAINS

14° C |  29° C

January-February

14° C |  26° C

Where to Go in Kenya

While regions like Masai Mara National Reserve and Amboseli National Park often top travelers’ lists, there’s no shortage of incredible safari destinations in this vibrant country.

Amboseli National Park is considered one of the most scenic of Kenya’s wildlife reserves, and for good reason. It holds incredible views of the snow-capped peaks of Mt. Kilimanjaro in neighboring Tanzania. (If you’d like to visit Mt Kilimanjaro, browse our Tanzania Safari Tours .)

The park is most famous, though, for its abundance of free-ranging elephants, many of which have been the subjects of studies by researchers. Sparse vegetation is ideal for viewing wildlife, which also includes Cape buffalo, impala, lion, Maasai giraffe, Grant’s zebra, wildebeest, and spotted hyena, among others. Photograph wildlife with Mt. Kilimanjaro in the background, or make your way to Observation Hill for an unforgettable overview of the wildlife reserve.

From white sands to turquoise waters and luxurious beachside resorts, the beaches of Kenya’s coast are a popular stop for travelers looking to relax. Set against the unforgettable vista of the Indian Ocean, the coast offers fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, boat trips, sailing, wildlife watching, massages, and, of course, soaking up the sun. For those preferring a more off-the-beaten path experience, the northern beaches along the coast are an ideal place to visit.

Located in central Kenya, Lake Naivasha is just a short flight or a two-hour drive from Nairobi. The lake boasts more than 450 species of bird life, and also serves as the primary water source for buffaloes, elands, waterbucks, impalas, and zebras in the region. Bush walks are a popular activity among many visitors, and a boat trip on the lake or to Crescent Island is highly recommended. From Lake Naivasha, you can also enjoy day trips to Lake Elementaita, Hell’s Gate, and Lake Nakuru National Park.

Known as a destination for thousands of migrating flamingos, Lake Nakuru is home to over 400 different bird species, easily making it a birder’s paradise. The park is also renowned for its population of the endangered black rhino, as well as populations of lion, leopard, giraffe, waterbuck, hippo, and baboons. At just a few hours drive from Nairobi, Lake Nakuru is a favorite among many travelers to Kenya.

Often considered the gateway to Northern Kenya, Laikipia Plateau is a vast region that covers more than two million acres and includes the Samburu, Boran, and Kikuyu tribes.   The region is home to a series of private, including the Mugie, Lewa, Loisaba, Ol Pejeta, and Segera Conservancies, all of which play a critical role in local conservation efforts.

The unique habitats of Laikipia create a stunning landscape, ranging from the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya to the arid plains.  Laikipia is home to many northern game species, such as Jackson’s hartebeest, reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s Zebra, and gerenuk, as well as growing populations of lion, rhino, elephant, and leopard. 

Is it worthwhile visiting Maasai Mara, Kenya? Yes–absolutely. Masai Mara National Reserve boasts fabulous game-viewing year round, which is rightly earned it the reputation as Kenya’s finest wildlife region. Travelers can enjoy sightings of all the big game: elephant, lion, cheetah, leopard, an buffalo, as well as black rhino, zebra, Thomson’s gazelle, Defassa waterbuck, eland antelope, and topi. Maasai Mara is also popular for its famed wildebeest migration, particularly from mid-July to mid-November. The park consists of open savannah, forests, and acacia woodlands along the Mara and Talek Rivers.

The Mara Triangle in the western part of the reserve offers some the best places to look for wildlife, while western part of the reserve also offers good game viewing, coupled with lower numbers of visitors. Explore the park via a game drive, or a balloon safari to your excursion (followed by a champagne breakfast) for the ultimate safari experience. Fishing safaris and other activities are also available.

Conservancies along the Mara include Mara North, Naboisho Conservancy, and Olare Orok Conservancy. As part of the Mara ecosystem, these regions offer incredible game viewing, valuable conservation projects, and meaningful impact for the local Maasai communities. Day trips into the Mara can easily be incorporated from the many stunning lodges found within these conservancies.

Nairobi calls itself the City in the Sun, and this African metropolis boasts a lively mix of culture, nightlife, and even wildlife.  Visitors can enjoy the bustling restaurant scene at popular destinations like Tamarind or the Carnivore Restaurants, or take in traditional culture and crafts at the Maasai Market.  If you’re looking for a little wildlife in the midst of the city, consider the AFEW Giraffe Center, where visitors can hand-feed the giraffes–often receiving a friendly kiss from the giraffes in return–or the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, a conservation project that rescues orphaned elephants.

Though small—at just 165 square kilometers—Samburu National Reserve is an absolute gem, boasting abundant birdlife, as well as populations of elephant, lion, Grevy’s zebra, giraffe, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx. The largest concentrations of wildlife can be found along the Ewaso Nyiro River, which makes its way slowly through the arid terrain. Samburu is the best known reserve in Northern Kenya and makes an excellent place for game drives, as well as cultural visits with the local Samburu tribe.

Made up of two regions–East & West–Tsavo National Park is a place to savor the wilderness in its most unhurried and pristine form.

A combination of arid bush, rock formations, and riverine forest, Tsavo East National Park—halfway between Nairobi and Mombasa—is home to Maasai giraffe, lion, elephant, cheetah, and lesser kudu, among others. Enjoy game drives within the park, visit Mudanda Rock for more wildlife sightings, or look for hippos and crocodiles on a scenic drive along the Galana River.

Tsavo West National Park is known for its large herds of elephants, prides of lion, and a sizeable leopard population. The park also boasts giraffe, zebra, and antelope. Although big game is less concentrated than in Amboseli, the park still has a sizable population—and the rugged landscape itself can be worth the trip. Dotted with Acacia trees, doum palms, and baobob trees, the woodlands provide an important breeding ground for numerous birds. Head to the Mzima Springs underwater viewing platform in the early morning for a chance to see hippos, otters, and fish swimming through the waters.

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A guide to Kenya’s best parks and conservancies

Kenya’s national parks and reserves receive over two million visitors a year, half of which are local Kenyans and the other half international arrivals.

Visitors to Kenya come primarily for wildlife safaris and the beach. Despite the a recent decline in visitor figures as a result of the sporadic terrorist threats on the border with Somalia and the Northern Coast, Kenya remains one of the foremost safari destinations  on the continent. A safari in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve is almost guaranteed to provide sightings of all the Big Five, as well as the impressive  Great Migration  river crossings.

Lions in the Maasai Mara

But there is much more to Kenya than just its most famous reserve. The country has 23 National Parks and 15 National Reserves managed by either the Kenyan wildlife services or private companies, like in the case of parts of the Maasai Mara Game Reserve.

How to choose a national park in Kenya

Most safaris will last between one and two weeks during which there will be enough time to visit a few parks. A good rule of thumb is to spend three nights at each destination. This will give you enough time to roam the area that is relatively accessible from your accommodation. It also allows for a change of scenery.

Although safaris can seem like a very repetitive vacation activity, combining parks with different landscapes, cultural possibilities and adventures on offer (like hot air balloons or helicopter trips) can ensure not only a varied trip but also an enriching experience that goes beyond wildlife observation. Of the 38 parks and reserves, this are my personal selection of the best parks in Kenya for a perfect safari.

1. Mount Kenya National Park – For adventure seekers

Mount Kenya. Source

Africa’s second peak rises to 5,199 meters above sea level and is a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site. The mountain offers diverse landscapes, wilderness and wildlife. You can take a helicopter to one of the peaks, see the permanent glacier at the top, as well as forests and hot springs. This is the perfect destination for climbers and those looking for a change of scenery. Expect alpine vegetation, crystal clear pure streams and the rare sighting of snow and glaciers only 16km from the Equator. If you wanted to climb the mountain you would need three to five days. This is the mountain that gave the country its name and it is sacred to the Kikuyu, who historically inhabited the area and are today’s largest ethnic group in the area.

Need to know : Mount Kenya is around 200km from Nairobi and can be accessed by road or via an air strip that runs scheduled flights. Thanks to its altitude, the area is mosquito free. Although you are less likely to see big cats here, the main draw is not so much the wildlife, of which there is plenty, but the landscapes and the possibility to experience a different side to Kenya.

Best visited : Although temperatures are largely the same all year round thanks to the Equatorial position of the mountain, expect incredibly cold weather with daily temperatures, even in the sun, rarely above 20 degrees Celsius. Night time thermometers drop below freezing.

2. Maasai Mara Game Reserve – For the best game viewing

Maasai Mara Great Migration

Few things can compare to a stay in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve . The abundance of wildlife and the sheer density of certain species like zebra, wildebeest and lions will ensure your days are filled with once in a lifetime moments you are bound to remember. In the three nights I spent there, I saw lions mating, the famous Great Migration, herds of wildebeest against the backdrop of the hot air balloons rising, cheetah hunting and bringing the kill to her cubs, leopard eating their kill, lions hunting and getting really close to the jeep… Despite being my 10th safari, the Maasai Mara left me speechless. After so many safari parks I finally had to succumb to the Queen of all parks and agree: East Africa’s wildlife is best enjoyed in the Maasai Mara.

Things to know : The Maasai Mara Game Reserve is one of the easiest parks in Africa to access. It is served by several scheduled flights making it not only easy to reach but also more affordable than having to charter your own Cessna plane. There are also several landing strips in various locations so you are never too far from the action. There are many lodges to stay at, including more affordable options as well as mobile tented camps . The sheer size of the park and its popularity does not allow for walking safaris.

Best visited : The Maasai Mara can be visited throughout the year except for April and May when the rains bring mud and impassable roads. But the best time to visit is during The Great Migration  when, aside from the usual wildlife density, over a million zebra and wildebeest flood the park with the National Geographic worthy images of river crossings. The shoulder months of November and February are green months to visit, with less crowds and lower prices.

3. Amboseli National Park – Genuine Maasai life and elephant herds

Elephant herd in Amboseli

Bordering Tanzania in the Southeast, Amboseli National Park is well know to the Maasai as “salty dust” and for good reason. The park is generally drier and dustier than other parks and that attracts large herds of elephants. The famous image of Amboseli is the iconic picture of an elephant grazing against the backdrop of rising Kilimanjaro , Africa’s highest peak. The park is a great place to spot incredible elephant herds with animals of all ages and for the possibility to interact with Maasai Mara villages that are still living largely as they used to on the outskirts of the park.

The park is home to the Big Five as well and the relatively dry eco-system and landscape makes wildlife spotting easier as animals have less places to hide. Drive on the dried out Amboseli river bed and watch mirages in the horizon as the heat and light project animals against the plains like on a mirror.

Need to know : Stay outside of the National Park in a mobile tented safari with Ker & Downey Howard Saunders, founder of Shackleton & Selous , and you will have the entire conservancy area to yourself. We did not see another car or tourist in four days. Being outside of the main National Park also meant that the Maasai communities were sharing the space with us, so we could spend quite a lot of time with them throwing spears, hearing them sing and jump in their traditional dances and go visit the village of our guide. We also went on walking safaris with the Maasai to track wildlife. Amboseli can be reached by a 4h drive from Nairobi, avoiding the hefty airfares.

Best visited : Any month except for March and April, when the high rains arrive. November and December sees short rains that clear the skies and bring much awaited greenery and life. The winter dry months bring cloud coverage, so Kilimanjaro’s peak is elusive.

4. Tsavo East and West National Park – For a rough diamond

Tsavo red dusted elephants. Source: Flickr animalrescueblog

The two largest parks in Kenya are almost 20 times bigger than the Maasai Mara. Located to the South-Eastern most part of the country, Tsavo East And West are the least visited and wildest of the parks in the country. They were split due to the construction of the railway line to Mombasa and their size makes some parts almost never visited, giving large herds of mammals the space and freedom to roam carelessly.

All the Big Five are present here as are wild cats and mosquitoes! Like Amboseli, both of Tsavo’s parks are dusty and generally hot. Elephants here often shower themselves with the red dust that makes Tsavo so famous and they can be found splashing and spraying in the Galana river, a sight to behold.

West Tsavo also provides the option for exploring caves and seeing the Mzima Springs gushing out water onto the millions of years old lava fields. Another wet encounter, unusual in Kenya’s bush, is Lake Jipe.

The park’s size gives it a huge variety of activities available so there is surely something for everyone.

Need to know : The park can also be reached on a 3h drive from Nairobi but there are several airstrips connecting to the various parts of the park. Tsavo East has no scheduled flights, Tsavo West does.

Best visited : Tsavo West is hotter than Tsavo East and can easily reach 40 degrees during the summer months of January and February. While you should avoid the long rains of April to May, it can be very interesting to be there during the shorter rains of October to December when the park’s greenery gives it a different light.

5. Meru National Park – Exclusive luxury

Elsa’s Kopje

Meru Park was made famous by the autobiographical book Born Free, written by animal lover Joy Adamson, who together with her husband raised Elsa the lion. Meru Park is a relatively smaller option with plenty of tall grass and greenery and teeming with wildlife. Both white and black rhino, which made Meru famous in the 70s, are back in healthy numbers and easy to spot. Meru is also a quiet park with not a lot of tourists in sight as there is only one lodge to stay at and a few marked campsites. Several rivers and streams give it an opposite look of the drier southern parks.

Need to know : Meru Park is accessible on scheduled flights from Nairobi, as the drive is not recommendable. The best place to stay is Elsa’s Kopje Lodge, a stunning lodge located on top of a hill with an incredible 360 degree view of the plains below and rooms carved from the rocks with nothing more than a mosquito net for a wall. Here you can sleep with nature and watch the leopard’s bright neon eyes at night from your bed. Some rooms have outdoor bathtubs hanging over the hillside and the views from the infinity pool are breathtaking. This is also the base where the Adamsons raised Elsa.

Best visited : Like the rest of Kenya, avoid the rainy months of April to May and October to December.

6. Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha National Park – Pink flamingos

Lake Nakuru flamingos. Source

Best known for the large groups of pink flamingos that can be found on its shores, Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha are an excellent day trip from Nairobi as they are only 100-150km from the capital. The flamingos get their bright pink colour because of the algae they eat from the lake’s waters. The drive to the park includes a portion through a large euphorbia forest, a type of cactus-looking tree.

Good to know : Due to their proximity to each other, both lakes can be done as day trips from Nairobi or as a combined Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru trip. If you wanted, you could also get there on public transportation, on the minivan known as matatu. Lake Naivasha offers boat safaris and the opportunity to spot rhinos.

Best visited : The same dry months apply but Lake Nakuru is drier than other parts of the country, so even in the wetter months the rainfall is low.

7. Samburu National Reserve – Tribesmen and rare wildlife

Reticulated giraffe. Source

Home of the Samburu tribes and lesser famous than the Maasai, the Samburu National Reserve is a decidedly hidden gem. Not as popular as other parks in Kenya, Samburu is home to all of the Big Five and all the large cats, as well as some unique species that inhabit only the Samburu and Laikipia plains. Animals like the long necked gerenuk, Grevy’s zebra, the reticulated giraffe and the Beisa onyx. The park is separated from Buffalo Springs National Reserve by the Ewaso Ng’iro.

Interestingly, Samburu National Reserve is the place were 160 fossil remains of Homo Habilis and Homo Erectus were discovered in the 60s and 70s.

Good to know : Samburu can be reached on a 5-hour drive from Nairobi or on scheduled flights. As the reserve is managed by the local Samburu Communities, you should allow some time to visit them and get to know more about their customs.

Best visited : Like all the other parks in Kenya, long rains descend in April and November and shorter rains in May, October and December. Best to go between January and March and July to October.

8. Laikipia Plateau – For an exclusive experience

Borana Lodge. Source

Extending over almost 10,000 sq. km, the Laikipia Plateau is not really a reserve or park, but rather an area encompassing seven conservancies often known for their former ranches that were originally owned by the first British settlers. Laikipia is located at the foothills of Mount Kenya and its wildlife density and diversity is second only to the Maasai Mara, but the area receives a significantly lower number of visitors. Additionally, all of the seven conservancies that make up the Laikipa Plateau are very different from each other, but each offers a special and exclusive experience. The fact that they are mostly privately owned and operated also means that activities otherwise not allowed in national parks are possible here.

Starting with Borana Ranch, a former farm and still managed by a third generation family that is home to stunning Borana Lodge . Th Lodge offers walking, mountain biking, quad and horseback safaris, as well as fishing, helicopter trips to snow-capped Mount Kenya and paragliding. From here you can also make your way to Pride Rock, featured in The Lion King as the place where Simba observes his territory.

Il N’gwesi and Lekurruki Ranch are run by the Maasai communities whereas Sabuk Wilderness works closely with the Samburu and offers camel treks into the wild. Lewa Wilderness Conservancy has focused on education and research. Loisaba Wilderness was the first lodge to offer guests the experience of sleeping on a “star bed”. Lastly, the Sosian Ranch is a private ranch restored to its former glory and offers wildlife viewing and the chance to understand life on a working ranch.

Good to know : As the Laikipia Plateau is very remote, the sense of being one with nature and of complete peace is at its highest. Each property works separately and independently, so you will have to reach out to each one. Rules vary per conservancy but are much more flexible than in national parks, so you will be able to go on more walking safaris to get up and close with nature. Don’t miss the star bed!

Best visited : Same as the rest of the country Laikipia is dry from January to March and from July to October. Going to Laikipia in the rainy months may mean that a lot of the activities that make the conservancy special are not available as they are weather dependent, so bear that in mind.

9. Lake Turkana – Rugged adventure

Central Island, Lake Turkana. Source

Lake Turkana, the world’s largest permanent desert lake, is also home to an active island volcano in the middle and is listed as a UNESCO site. The lake is located in the very remote and arid north of Kenya and its northern tip crosses into Ethiopia. It got its name in 1975, after Kenya’s independence, from the predominant tribe in the area, the Turkana. Due to its hard to reach location (two days drive from Nairobi) Lake Turkana receives very few visitors. The area is barren, arid and has little wildlife, as would be expected from such landscapes. But its beauty lies in its uniqueness and complete remoteness.

Lake Turkana is the result of the East Great Rift and the tectonic plates pulling apart, much like Lake Abbe  in Djibouti . Aside from its geological value and rareness, the area around the lake is also home to the oldest discoveries by the Leakey family of skeletons, skulls and remains of  hominid fossils dating back millions of years ago.

Good to know : Aside from scheduled expeditions in groups or overland trips, Lake Turkana is hard to reach and explore. The best bet would be to stay at one of the lodges in the area that organise fly-in trips, like the Sarara Camp or Desert Rose Lodge, who can provide chartered planes to explore the Turkana area on overnight camping trips. Safety and security in the area is a constant battle against the Somali bandits and so it is best to go with a reputable local outfit that knows the latest status.

Best visited : The rain is not a problem here, unlike in the rest of Kenya, but temperatures can be hot all year round. The nights brings out cooler weather. The lodges you will be staying at before visiting Turkana follow the weather of the rest of the country, so the wet months are best avoided.

10. Nairobi National Park – Citylife safaris

Nairobi National Park. Source: Nairobi National Park

A park within the city limits – can you imagine a better way to spend the few hours after sunrise and before going to the office? I did actually do that while I was working in Nairobi. One morning, dressed in work clothes, we asked our driver to take us to the Nairobi National Park. The park is easily reached as it is right on the edge of the city. In fact, as you land in Nairobi you should not miss the chance to loom through the window and see if you can spot zebra and giraffe.

At Nairobi National Park, on that chilly morning, I saw my first lion hunt. The park is also known for its rhino sanctuary where you are sure to see these majestic and threatened animals. You can see all the Big Five, except for elephants, the only large mammals not present in the park. All the wild cats are there too.

Need to know : You can drive with your own vehicle making it easy to simply get a driver and go in. You can get a guide at the gate as well if you prefer. There is a tented campsite the park but it is so close to the city’s best hotels that it is better to stay in one of them and go out to dinner at night. Beware, traffic in Nairobi is silly.

Best visited : On a stopover in Nairobi. Not really a destination in itself, but a good way to spend some spare time in Nairobi.

11. Ol Pejeta Conservancy – For chimps and endangered rhino

Ol Pejeta white northern rhino. Source

A very unique form of conservancy, Ol Pejeta is home to the last three remaining white rhinos in the world and to all of Kenya’s rescued chimpanzees – victims of the illegal pet trade. The conservancy is a model of innovative bush tourism with activities that immerse the visitor into conservation and give them the opportunity to interact with the environment and the wildlife, including going lion tracking to collect research data. Ol Pejeta also offers night game drives, something that is not allowed in most national parks.

Good to know : Ol Pejeta is the closest place to Nairobi to the see the Big Five, so it is an easy drive. This is the only place in Kenya where you can see chimpanzees, and it is significantly cheaper than seeing them in the wild in Tanzania’s Mahale, a pricey, remote and expensive to reach lodge.

Best visited : Like with other parks and conservancies, Ol Pejeta best visited in the drier months of the year as wildlife congregates at waterholes.

Make it happen

I have been on safari in Kenya multiple times. On my most recent trip, I traveled with Howard Saunders ([email protected]), one of Ker & Downey ‘s partners, the longest running safari company in Africa. They are also the founders of the Shackleton & Selous Society , a group of private guides all around the world that take guests on incredible and unique experiences around their areas of expertise. Howard has been running safaris for the best part of 20 years, taking guests across East Africa. I enjoyed chatting with Howard’s right hand man, Solomon Ole Lenkaja, a Maasai elder from Amboseli who has been working with him for 20 years and is invaluable at spotting wildlife and liaising with the local communities. He can help put together a trip which combines lodges with his mobile tented safaris for the best experience.

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10 Best National Parks, Game Reserves and Safari Parks in Kenya

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply a curious traveler, an African safari in Kenya is sure to be one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life! 

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From witnessing elephants, lions and rhinos roaming in the wild to seeing some of nature’s most beautiful sunsets amidst lush green plains and gently rolling hills—there are so many reasons why visiting Kenya’s safari parks should be on everyone’s travel bucket list. 

To help guide you through the best Game Reserves, National Parks and other destinations for enjoying wildlife in Kenya, we compiled our list of the 10 best National Parks, Reserves, and Safari Parks for a Kenyan safari adventure. 

Our curated selection features popular safari parks like Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Park but also lesser-known ones such as the Mugie Conservancy that offer diverse landscapes and abundant animal species outside of the typical tourist circuit.  

Without further ado, let’s dive in! 

Safari Parks in Kenya

Kenya is the perfect destination for an exotic wildlife experience like no other. Home to over 50 wildlife reserves, safari parks, and national parks, Kenya impresses visitors with the sheer amount of breathtaking nature that exists across the country. 

From Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo, to Samburu and Lake Nakuru, these safari parks are filled with a variety of wild animals like elephants, rhinos, giraffes, lions and many more. The natural landscape of each park is unique and special, and many of them offer unique experiences, like seeing the wildebeest migration and sleeping in a treehouse in the bush!

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1. Masai Mara National Reserve 

Located southwest of Nairobi,  Masai Mara National Reserve (also spelled as Maasai Mara) is one of Kenya’s jewels and one of the best safari destinations in the country. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience one of the continent’s most spectacular wildlife. 

Wildlife in Masai Mara

Masai Mara Reserve is home to the Big Five (African elephant, lion, leopard, Cape buffalo, and rhinoceros). It is particularly famous for its large concentration of big cats, including large prides of lions , a significant number of cheetahs , and leopards.

A visit to Masai Mara National Reserve will allow you to come face-to-face with large herds of elephants and giraffes roaming through the grassy plains that stretch all the way down to Tanzania’s border. Masai Mara boasts a plethora of other wildlife, including a variety of mammals and birdlife. You’ll likely also to see hippos, buffalo, hyenas, jackals, gazelles, zebras, impalas, and hartebeest, among many more species. With over 500 bird species, this reserve is a birdwatcher’s paradise.

How Long Should You Stay

Since this park is located more than 4 hour drive from Nairobi, make the most of your time by spending at least 3-4 days on a safari in Masai Mara.  

Although it is one of the best safari parks in Kenya,  Masai Mara National Reserve offers much more than just animals. Skies blanketed by millions of stars, savannas stretching for miles, and striking sunsets make this a particularly popular destination for photographers. 

The great wildebeest migration  happens every year between July and October . Every year, over two million wildebeest cross the Mara River in search of water and better grazing during the dry season. The migration is a unique natural event like no other. It’s thrilling and memorable and one of our personal safari experiences!

2. Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park is one of the most popular Kenyan wildlife reserves due to its stunning location, diverse wildlife, and rich culture . Located at the southern base of Mt Kilimanjaro, Amboseli offers incredible photo opportunities with Africa’s highest mountain in the background. 

Wildlife in Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park is home to large herds of African elephants, so you can get up close and really appreciate these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. You’ll find plenty of other species here, including the rest of the Big Five , as well as cheetahs, giraffes and hundreds of bird species.   

In the marshes and lakes, you’ll see wallowing hippos, and if you go on a guided walk or drive you’ll spot blue wildebeest in the plains.

Amboseli National Park is located close to the Tanzanian border, around a 4-hour drive from Nairobi. Most people s pend a few nights on a safari in Amboseli , although day tours from Nairobi are also available.  

Take an easy hike up Observation Hill : the best vantage point in Amboseli National Park. On top of the hill, there is informative signage about the geological history and wildlife of the park. Make sure to bring your camera or binoculars to see and capture the awesome views from this spot.

3. Tsavo National Parks 

Located in the southeast part of the country, Tsavo National Parks are another excellent safari destination in Kenya.  As one of Kenya’s top national park complexes, it encompasses nearly 22,000 sq km (8494 sq miles) and is home to impressive animals like lions, leopards, rhinos, cheetahs, buffalos and hyenas – they all make their home in this spectacular natural wonder. 

This huge park is divided into Tsavo East National Park and Tsavo West National Park , each with its special features. 

• Tsavo East National Park is relatively flat and is known for its plains and the Galana River. 
• Tsavo West National Park has mountains, springs, and other attractions like the Ngulia Rhino sanctuary.

Wildlife in Tsavo National Parks

Aside from the Big Five, Tsavo National Park is home to the famous red elephant. Fun fact about the red elephant: they are actually the same gray colour as other African elephants. Their red appearance comes from their mud baths in the park’s iron-rich, red soil.

Located a 5-½ hour drive from Nairobi, Tsavo National Parks are very close to the coastal city of Mombasa. Visitors usually spend a few nights on a safari in Tsavo Parks and combine the trip with a beach stay on the Kenyan Coast. 

Make sure to visit the Shetani lava flow, a folded black lava landscape that covers 50 sq km in Tsavo West National Park. You can also explore the nearby Shetani caves, which were also formed by volcanic activity.

4. Samburu National Reserve 

Wildlife in Samburu Game Reserve National Reserve is a lesser-known safari destination in Kenya, famous for its stunning landscapes and rare species like Grevy’s Zebra and the Somali Ostrich . 

Wildlife in Samburu Game Reserve

Samburu is home to a wide variety of wildlife and birds, including reticulated giraffes, gerenuks – a kind of antelope – plus elephant and buffalo herds. 

One of Samburu National Reserve’s “special five” includes the beisa oryx, native to this specific region in northern Kenya. 

Samburu Game Reserve is located about a 6-hour drive north of Nairobi and is pretty remote. If you are going to make it to Samburu on your safari, we recommended spending at least 2-3 nights experiencing the region.

Don’t miss:

A cultural tour to learn about the Samburu people . The Samburu culture has been relatively unaffected by modernity, and they have carefully protected their pastoral traditions.

5. Lake Nakuru National Park 

Designated as a conservation area in 1957 , Lake Nakuru National Park is a refuge for over a million pink flamingos and over 400 bird species. 

Wildlife in Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park is famous for its flamingo colonies , but there is plenty of other wildlife and attractions to see in this safari park. There are over 50 mammal species, including waterbucks, impalas, rhinos, as well as lions and even leopards. 

There are several viewpoints in Lake Nakuru and even a waterfall at the southern end of the park. Lake Nakuru is also a phenomenal place to birdwatch and is particularly recommended for birdwatchers.  

Lake Nakuru National Park is located 3 hour’s drive from Nairobi . We visited the park on a day trip from Lake Naivasha, but most visitors opt to spend a night or two at one of the safari camps in the park.  

Take a drive to Baboon cliff , a viewpoint on the western shore of Lake Nakuru. You’ll get a great view of the lake and might even get to see baboons up close.

If you plan to have lunch in the park, keep an eye out on the bush near the picnic spot for your chance to spot the white colobus monkeys that hang out in that area. 

6. Mugie Conservancy

Nestled in the heart of Laikipia, about a 5-hour drive north of Nairobi , Mugie Conservancy is one of the lesser-known safari parks in Kenya.  

The Mugie Conservancy was established with a focus on sustainable development and tourism, and there are many ongoing initiatives to conserve biodiversity and endangered species. It is one of Kenya’s younger conservancies, but its scenic beauty, along with its rich biodiversity, make it well worth a visit. 

Inside the conservancy is a 156-acre lake, the perfect spot for a nature walk or boat safari. 

Wildlife in Mugie Conservancy

Over 70 mammal species live in the park, with more than 280 bird species. The region features verdant grasslands and diverse wildlife, with common sightings ranging from elephants, hyenas, and wildebeest to the rare oryx, lions, and cheetahs. 

Jackson’s hartebeest is endemic to the area, and Mugie Conservancy is dedicated to protecting the endangered Grevy’s zebra.

For an interactive experience, ask your guide about the big cat tracking program, visit the orphaned giraffe Tala or learn all about the in-park anti-poaching program and participate in a fascinating demonstration of a “poacher search.”

7. Nairobi National Park

Located just 7 km from the bustling Kenyan capital of Nairobi, Nairobi National Park stands out from many other wildlife reserves and national parks throughout Kenya. It is unique because it is the only officially declared wildlife sanctuary in an urban area. 

It’s the only safari park in Kenya that provides visitors with rewarding wildlife viewing opportunities with a city backdrop. 

Wildlife in Nairobi National Park

This popular safari destination is home to four of the Big 5 African species —African elephant, African rhino, Cape buffalo and lion—as well as a myriad of other species such as zebras, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes and gazelles, 

Nairobi National Park is also a sanctuary for the black rhino, a critically endangered species.  

Ivory-burning Site, where Kenyan president Daniel Arap Moi made a dramatic protest against poachers by burning 11 tons of seized ivory. Several years later, President Uhuru Kenyatta ordered the burning of another 100 tons of confiscated ivory at the same site . 

8. Meru National Park

Meru National Park is one of the country’s lesser-visited safari reserves. But, its stunning landscape, lush rainforest, and diverse wildlife make it an exceptional destination. 

Wildlife in Meru National Park

The dynamic landscape and abundance of rain in Meru National Park has created a haven for a wide variety of wildlife. The park’s rivers are home to a large population of hippos, and the park is abundant in birdlife, elephants, rhinos, antelopes, buffalos, zebras, and reticulated giraffes.

While harder to spot, the Meru National Park is also home to predator species like the African wild cat, leopard, and cheetah. Other elusive species that you might see in Meru National Park include snakes like pythons and cobras. 

Meru National Park is a long 6-hour drive from Nairobi. So, it’s best to make this a 2 or 3-day excursion, looping in nearby destinations like Mount Kenya National Park and Mwingi National Reserve.

The rhino sanctuary in Meru National Park is one of the best places to view black and white rhinos. Adamson’s Falls is also a great spot to relax and enjoy the scenery .

9. Hell’s Gate National Park

Hell’s Gate National Park is known for its rugged, dramatic geology, breathtaking views, and diverse wildlife. There are extinct volcanoes, cliffs, and rock towers that you can climb with a guide. The park is named for its geothermal features, and there are active hot springs on site.

Wildlife in Hells Gate National Park

Wildlife in this safari park is less diverse than some of the other safari destinations on this list. Expect to see zebras, gazelles, hartebeests and other grazing animals. 

Located just 2-½ hours away from Nairobi, Hells Gate National Park is one of the best safari parks in Kenya to visit on a short safari trip. You can spend the night one of the safari lodges in the area or visit the park on a day trip from Nairobi. You can also combine a visit to Hells Gate with a guided tour and boat ride that will take you to Hells Gate National Park and Lake Naivasha.

An opportunity to explore Hell’s Gate National Park by bike. You can rent one inside the park and explore the trails on your own or with a guide.

READ NEXT: Top 10 Animals in Kenya Photo Guide

10. Loisaba Conservancy

Loisaba is a 57,000 acre wildlife conservancy and a working ranch and wildlife refuge managed by the Loisaba Community Trust. The conservancy focuses on wildlife research and sustainable tourism . 

Wildlife in Loisaba Conservancy

Loisaba Conservancy is located on the western edge of an elephant movement corridor. So, you can expect to see large herds of elephants during your visit.  You might also see Grevy’s zebra, Oryx, reticulated giraffes and even endangered wild dogs. 

You can participate in game drives, guided bush walks, and a cultural visit to the neighbouring community.

A 6-hour drive north of Nairobi, Loisaba conservancy is a hidden gem nestled away in northern Kenya. It’s far enough that you would want to spend a few nights here. We recommend combining a stay with a few nights in the nearby Mugie Conservancy. 

A chance to see wild dogs ! Loisaba is one of the few safari parks in Kenya with an active African wild dogs initiative. At the time of our visit in 2023, the wild dogs count in the region was close to 30. And while seeing the playful dogs is of course, not guaranteed (we didn’t get lucky), the chance to spot them makes a visit here worthwhile!

Have you ever been to a safari park in Kenya?

What other national parks or private reserves would you recommend for visiting .

READ NEXT: Best Things to do in Kenya

About The Author

Oksana & Max St John

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Safari in Kenya

Kenya's best safari reserves and camps.

Stuart Butler

• In this guide
• Samburu, Buffalo Springs & Shaba

Meru National Park

Lake nakuru national park, amboseli national park.

• Nairobi National Park
• Off the beaten track

Kenya besides safari

• Where to go
• Need to know
• Itinerary planning
• Hidden gems
• Conservancies
• How to plan & book

Kenya is the original home of the safari and it’s still one of the finest safari destinations in Africa . I've been going on safari in Kenya for decades, as a travel journalist and guidebook author writing about safari, conservation and life among the Maasai tribes.

The main thing I've learned: there's so much more to Kenya than the mainstream safari industry of luxury camps and the famed “big five” (so named because they were the prize targets of colonial–era hunters).

The country proudly boasts of an impressive network of protected spaces made up of 65 national parks and reserves as well as dozens of private and community conservancies. Together these cover a huge proportion of Kenya’s diverse landscapes and provide a home for animals as large as an elephant and as tiny as an elephant shrew.

Some parks, such as the Masai Mara and Amboseli , are rightly world famous. Other parks, such as Meru National Park or Kakamega Forest Reserve, barely make a blip on the mainstream safari circuit but are every bit as rewarding (and much quieter!) then the big name parks and reserves.

Kenya has a world class safari tourism industry with excellent safari operators catering to all budgets and a diverse portfolio of safari lodges and camps. All you need to decide is when and where to go – and that's where my guide comes in. Dig in and Safari njema! – (Have a nice trip!)

featured kenya safaris

Enchanted Kenyan Safari

Samburu, Rhinos and Mara Safari

Affordable Masai Mara Safari

Close encounters with a herd of elephants in Kenya's Masai Mara

The best safaris in Kenya

Kenya’s most popular – and some underrated – safari highlights.

Don't be swayed by the Masai Mara's magnetic pull. There are many hidden gems to be discovered in Kenya: here are a few of my top recommendations.

Masai Mara National Reserve

Mara north conservancy, ol pejeta conservancy, samburu game reserve, tsavo east & west national parks, loita hills, kakamega forest reserve, aberdare national park, lamu island.

Elsa’s Kopje

This is the best lodge in what is, for me, one of the best safari parks in Kenya. Named after Elsa the lion, of Born Free Fame, the lodge sits on an outcrop with simply incredible views over Meru. Owned by Kenya-based Elewana Collection, it’s undeniably pricey – rooms start at around USD $950 per night and climb steeply from there – but worth a night or two if your budget can stretch that far. If that’s beyond your means I can also recommend Meru Camp and there are cheaper options in the nearby town of Maua.

Witness the migration river crossings – but expect crowds!

The wildebeest migration is one of the world’s greatest natural phenomena, and watching the herds dodge hungry crocodiles as they surge across the Mara River is a staple of Kenya safari. The migration moves into the Masai Mara from Tanzania’s Serengeti between June and October. This is by far the busiest time and place of the year, so expect crowds. If you’d rather see the migration untroubled by crowds, I recommend you look at Tanzania instead.

Denise Carnihan

I can highly recommend Maili Saba. It has a picturesque location overlooking the Great Rift Valley and volcano region, with lovely permanent tents each with en-suites and balcony, and all very nicely decorated. There is a communal pool and outside gazebos for relaxing. The main dining room and lounging area is stunning with striking cathedral ceiling and beautiful decor. The food is absolutely outstanding and the staff are warm, friendly and go out of their way to assist their guests. The first time I visited was a complete surprise organised by my Kenyan partner, and I've included it in our tour itineraries ever since.

Nashulai Maasai Conservancy

One of the great success stories of Kenya safari has been the emergence of networks of conservancies, usually adjacent to the better known national parks. These are community-run or privately-operated protected areas, run for the benefit of wildlife and local communities. In the Masai Mara, the Nashulai Maasai Conservancy is particularly interesting, as it’s the only one that was 100% established by local Maasai and the only one where the Maasai remain in their homes within the conservancy. I can also highly recommend Mara North, Naboisho, and Ol Dereski; you’ll likely have an amazing time in any of them.

Offbeat Mara

Mara North is perhaps the best known conservancy in the Masai Mara, and Offbeat Mara is one of my favourite camps in the entire place. It's a small, un-showy camp of just seven tents including two family tents. In addition to the standard game drives you can do night drives, guided bush walks, horse riding, hot air balloon flights and even do some Maasai running coaching!

If you’ve ever wondered what the hide of a rhino feels like, wanted to experience a safari at night or dreamed of running (or riding) in the wild, open air of a safari reserve, head to Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The conservancy is in the Laikipia region, at the foothills of Mount Kenya. The sanctuary is the largest in East Africa to host black rhino, as well as the world’s last two remaining white northern rhino. Ol Pejeta is also the only place in Kenya where you can see chimpanzees. Conservation is at its core, with several experiences available for intrepid safari-goers who want to do more than just watch the animals.

Those looking to get their hands dirty can join one of the one or two-week volunteer programmes and learn wildlife research and tracking, veterinary care and more of what goes on behind the scenes. The conservancy has several accommodation options from simple cottages to basic campsites and luxury tented eco-camps.

Campi ya Kanzi

If elephants are your thing, you can’t do much better than Amboseli where herds of these magnificent beasts graze in the shadow of the equally magnificent Mt. Kilimanjaro. By far the best place to stay is not in the park itself but 30km away at Campi ya Kanzi in the Kimana Community Wildlife Sanctuary, situated between Amboseli and Chyulu Hills. It’s a very high-end Maasai-run camp that was set up to aid the local community and conservation projects. Its excellent location means you can see wildlife in the conservancy, Amboseli and Chyulu all from one base.

Saruni Rhino Camp

This camp in the Sera Conservancy, just north of the Samburu Reserve in northern Kenya occupies a stunning location in the semi-desert. Their specialism is a thrilling rhino tracking walking safari, probably my favourite place to see rhinos in all Kenya. I spent five days here and by the end still couldn’t decide if coming within ten metres of the steamroller-like rhinos was thrilling or simply terrifying!

Kilaguni Serena Lodge

In Tsavo West most of the accommodation is fairly expensive (unless you have your own camping gear in which case there are three spartan public campgrounds). A reasonably-priced option is the Kilaguni Serena Lodge – it’s far from a budget offering but the Serena collection is generally pretty good value. If you have the budget to blow, Finch Hattons is the most exclusive camp in the park, with an eye watering price tag to match.

Best walking safari

In my opinion the best way to experience a safari is to ditch the 4X4 and explore on foot. With a good tracker-guide you’ll see all the little things you’d otherwise miss if you’re stuck in a vehicle all day. Walking is often forbidden within state-run national parks but is usually allowed, even encouraged, in conservancies. If I had to pick a favourite place for a walking safari in Kenya it’d be Loita Hills without question. Although not far from the Masai Mara, Loita Hills is barely visited by tourists despite boasting superb and varied scenery, a lovely climate, very different wildlife to the lower savannah plains, and fascinating interactions with very traditional Maasai culture.

Also, while Kenya doesn’t really compete with the multi-day Tanzania trekking scene, some organised trekking may be found here, as well as in the Aberdares and around Mt. Kenya.

Saruni Samburu

There’s only one lodge within the Kalama conservancy, immediately to the north of Samburu Reserve, and it’s likely going to be one of the most spectacular places you’ll ever stay. Built into, around and onto a huge granite outcrop, Saruni Samburu is almost invisible from a distance but the stunningly turned out rooms offer a cliff side view over what feels like half of northern Kenya.

Lewa Conservancy

Lewa, in the Laikipia plateau area, is perhaps the most famous of all Kenya’s conservancies. And for good reason: this is safari to order. Want to see a black rhino? No problem. One of the superb guides will manage to find one. Lions, cheetah, elephant. They are all found here in abundance.

And it’s not just the wildlife that’s outstanding. The landscape is cinematic in its scope. Rolling sun bleached grasslands, table flat acacia trees, meandering rivers and a backdrop of the glinting glaciers of Mt Kenya.

The other great thing about Lewa (and this is common to all the Laikipia area conservancies) is exclusivity. If you’re not a guest of one of the handful of lodges then you can’t go on a safari here.

Kenya’s safari hidden gem

Just north of the equator in far western Kenya, is Kakamega Forest — Kenya’s only tropical rainforest. The land here is wet, green and intensely cultivated with a mix of subsistence farming and large tea estates. In amongst all this though are a few pockets of the dense rainforests that once covered large parts of western Kenya.

The Kakamega Forest Reserve is a fine example of this kind of forest and interesting walking safaris here reveal bird and primate life that has more in common with the forests of Uganda and the Congo than anything you’ll see on safari in Kenya. Wander the forest’s network of trails and take in the huge variety of flora and fauna it supports, including hundreds of bird species, some of which are not found anywhere else.

In my opinion, Kakamega is one of the most delightful places in Kenya, but yet hardly any tourists know of its existence. It should be a must visit for any ornithologist or herpetologist. As well as birds, reptiles and primates, I found the visit to the old mine shaft to look for bats especially memorable.

Up close and personal with baboons

Laikipia is known for its rhino conservation, but my own personal highlight in this area wasn’t the rhinos. Rather it was the day I spent with a biologist in very close proximity to around 200 habituated baboons. Having a huge male baboon shove its way past you as it bares its teeth was an experience easily on a par with gorilla and chimpanzee encounters in East Africa. The other nice thing about this particular experience is that it doesn’t involve staying inside an expensive conservancy but rather you are hosted by a grassroots Maasai womens’ project. And hardly anyone – even other Kenyans – know about it!

Hiking in Aberdare National Park

A world away from the African safari image of savannah grasses and drooling sunsets, the Aberdares consists of two different ecosystems. A high, cold and often bleak moorland and, below that, dense tangled montane jungle.

The wildlife here is a little different and a little harder to spot. But elephants are very common as are big grumpy buffalo. There are also montane species you won’t see anywhere else including bongo antelope, bush pigs and melanistic leopard and serval.

Unusually among Kenyan national parks, you can also get out of the vehicle here and enjoy long, lonely hikes over the moorlands: I have really enjoyed the sensation of trudging across the bleak moorlands in cold afternoon drizzle while always keeping a beady eye out for roaming buffalo.

The park also has some history. In 1952, a young English lady named Elizabeth was staying at the famed Treetops Lodge here (today’s version is actually a reconstruction of the original) when it was announced that her father had died. And so it was, that on a remote Kenyan mountain slope, that young lady became Queen Elizabeth II. Many years later her eldest grandson, and future king, proposed to Kate Middleton in a small wooden fishing cabin in a spot not so far away from where his grandmother became Queen.

Post-safari beach time

If time allows I highly recommend you find a couple of days to wash away the safari dust on Kenya’s palm-fringed coastline. The country has many beautiful beach destinations but the standard itineraries tend to focus on Diani, south of Mombasa. My vote goes for the underrated Lamu archipelago, and in particular the old Swahili trading town of Lamu, which always leaves me enchanted.

Featured kenya safaris

Tanzania and Kenya Safari

The greatest safari on earth, kenya's best safari parks, kenya’s most popular safari parks and lesser-known hidden gems.

In a standard two week safari it’s perfectly possible — in fact I'd highly recommend — to explore three or four different protected areas. Ideally with each one offering a totally different habitat and set of wildlife inhabitants. If I had to pick a favourite, I'd probably vote for Meru National Park, but any of the following could feature on a Kenya safari.

Best for tranquil, crowd-free safaris

Meru, the country’s forgotten national park, is easily one of my favourite of all Kenya’s safari parks. This was once one of the most popular parks in the country but during the 1980s, when Kenya was going through a rough political patch and instability overwhelmed some parts of the country, Meru turned into a hotbed of poaching.

Security and stability have long since returned, yet somehow this park never returned to its former fame. But for those in the know – and that now includes you – Meru National Park is safari gold.

For the classic – if busy – Kenya safari

The very essence of an African safari landscape, the Masai Mara stretches along the Kenya-Tanzania border and forms the northern fringe of the greater Serengeti ecosystem (most of which is in Tanzania ).

This is the part of Kenya in which I have spent the most time (months and months if I added it all up), and was the scene of one of my best ever travel experiences. Some years ago a Maasai friend and I set out on a five week hike that took us across the entire Mara ecosystem. By day we walked alongside the wildlife and Maasai herders. By night we camped out under the stars and slept in traditional Maasai villages. An unforgettable adventure!

This is the place to see large prides of black-manned lions, bellowing elephants, grumpy buffalo and a pick ‘n’ mix box of antelope and gazelles. And that’s before we even touch on the smaller creatures and huge array of birds. But, above and beyond all else, the Mara is renowned for the spectacular wildebeest migration .

For elephants & Kilimanjaro views

Amboseli National Park is the postcard park of Kenya. This is where those photographs are taken of elephants with a backdrop of the (fast melting!) glaciers of Mt Kilimanjaro. I have spent many dreamy mornings parked under an acacia tree, a thermos of coffee in hand watching the rising sun tinge the snows of Kilimanjaro a pinky-red.

The elephants and the scenery are the real highlights of this park. In dry periods they flock here from miles around to quench their thirst in the swamps and pools that splash the dusty landscape in greens.

Another big reason to visit Amboseli is the chance to see conservation in action in the conservancies and other environmental and community projects surrounding the park.

For wetland safari & birdwatching

Just 5 kilometres from the big city of Nakaru, Lake Nakuru National Park’s accessibility makes it one of the most popular Kenya safari hotspots. It’s centred on the large Rift Valley soda lake of the same name, but also encompasses fringing grasslands, acacia woodlands and rocky escarpments.

The park is best known for its sometimes huge flocks of flamingos and a large rhino population. Back in the 1990’s, Lake Nakuru was the first place where I saw a really huge flock of flamingos. I’d seen the odd handful before, but the thousands upon thousands I saw here on that day sticks in my memory. The smell (ah yes the smell!), the noise, and of course the searing pink colours; It was one of the moments that made me fall in love with Kenya.

Best for wide open spaces

Combined, Tsavo East and West National Parks cover an enormous swathe of acacia scrub Kenyan wilderness. Tsavo West alone (the bigger of the two parks) covers an area greater in size than Wales, or two and half times the size of Yellowstone National Park.

The two parks are separated from each other by the Nairobi-Mombasa highway and are easy to reach from either city.

Despite being directly adjacent, the two parks are radically different from one another with the green hills of Tsavo East a marked contrast to the red soil and volcanic landscapes of Tsavo West. Because of their diversity and sheer size, I strongly recommend you devote enough time to the parks if you’re going to visit them. The rushed two-day safaris from Mombasa (or Nairobi) simply don’t allow enough time to get much out of a visit.

For world-leading conservation

The Laikipia plateau area in central Kenya is one of the most exciting places in African conservation. This isn’t a single national park or reserve, but rather a network of interlocking private and community-run conservancies where people, livestock and wildlife live together to the benefit of all.

Laikipia hosts all the classic East African safari mammals but is best known for its rhinos, including the critically endangered northern white rhino, only two of which are left alive. Both are female and so, tragically, this is a species awaiting extinction. They can be seen at the Ol Pejeta conservancy.

Kenya’s remote far north

Samburu, Buffalo Springs and Shaba National Reserves are three interconnected reserves on the edge of northern Kenya’s vast semi-desert wilderness.

Far removed from mainstream Kenyan life, these northern regions have a wild reputation. The landscape is harsh with endless sunburnt plains of acacia thornbush out of which rise the occasional fertile and densely forested mountain peaks, ranges, table lands and volcanic plugs.

Elephants, in particular, are the main event here. There are large herds who can migrate huge distances in search of water.

Safari in the big city

While most capital cities have their collection of ornate parks filled with neatly cut lawns, manicured flower beds and perhaps a boating lake, Nairobi has gone one step further.

Its biggest ‘park’ is in fact a 117 square kilometre swathe of undulating savannah grassland and acacia woodland. And while it doesn’t have a boating lake, it does have lions. And buffalo. And rhinos. All of which means that it’s probably not such a sensible place for an after work stroll.

It’s a fabulous safari destination but is woefully overlooked by international visitors to Kenya. This is a shame, because Nairobi National Park is an excellent safari location in its own right. I have been many times, often just for a quick half-day drive from the city. This was the place I first witnessed the thrill of a hunt: a cheetah racing, but failing, to grab dinner for her cubs.

A pair of ostrich in Meru National Park

Kenya safaris: Need to know

Everything you wish you'd known before you booked.

My first Kenya safari was in 1994 and I’ve been coming back pretty much every year since. Here’s what I’ve learned over the years about the best way to plan and book a safari in Kenya.

Mix up your itinerary

My single most important tip for Kenya safari first-timers is to avoid the mistake of non-stop game drives. Standard tour operator itineraries shuttle you from park to park with a gruelling schedule of game drives. Yes, this is the best way of seeing large mammals up close, but the bumpy tracks, early starts and long hours quickly exhaust even the most ardent wildlife-watcher. And there is so much more to safari in Kenya that you’ll miss from racing around in a jeep. Break it up. Look for operators who offer bush walks, village visits, and conservation projects. Or simply take an afternoon or two to sit back under a tree enjoying the sights, sounds and smells.

Many visitors to Kenya devote their entire trip to going on safari…

Don’t miss Kenya’s many hidden gems

Most standardised Kenya safari itineraries reduce the entire country to the blockbuster highlights: the Mara, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru… maybe Tsavo and Samburu if they’re feeling adventurous. This does a great disservice to the country’s true diversity. There’s so much more to a Kenya safari than racing around the savannah chasing the big five and I’d strongly advise you find time to visit some of Kenya’s numerous hidden gems.

For instance, out in the far west is Kakamega Forest Reserve which has more in common with the rainforests of Uganda and the Congo than the classic Kenya landscape. In my opinion this is one of the most delightful places in Kenya, yet hardly any tourists know of its existence.

Another personal favourite that’s a world away from the classic Kenya savannah is Aberdare National Park where dense tangled montane jungle gives way to a high, cold and often bleak moorland. Unusually among Kenyan national parks, you can also get out of the vehicle here and enjoy long, lonely hikes over the moorlands.

But that’s not it: Saiwa Swamp, the Chyulu Hills, Hells Gate, Ruma National Park, and many more that rarely feature on the mainstream Kenya safari circuit but are usually accessible on a self-drive safari, or with more specialist safari operators.

Get out of the safari bubble

Many safari goers, especially those on a high end tour just bounce from one heavenly safari camp to another. Sure, you live the Hollywood Africa dream but you’ve not really experienced real Kenya. Instead, hop on a bus and head out to one of the numerous small market towns where most Kenyans live. You’ll experience a totally different side of the country and it’s one that will stay with you long after the sundowner safari drinks fade from memory.

Kenya off the beaten track

The parks and reserves covered in my Kenya safari guide are only the best-known and most visited of the country's numerous protected and other natural areas…

Stay in at least one conservancy

National parks, reserves and conservancies are mentioned a lot in this guide, but just what is the difference and why does it matter?

A national park or reserve is a government or local council run protected area. Most of the best-known protected areas in Kenya fall into this category.

These areas are run solely for the benefit of wildlife and tourism, sometimes at the expense of local people. Tourism in these areas creates jobs, but locals are often forbidden from entering these protected areas other than for work reasons and communities were often (but not always) removed from their land when the parks and reserves were created. Corruption can be a problem with the money generated by these parks not always going where it should.

A conservancy is a different affair. A conservancy is normally located on either communal land owned by the community as a whole or on private ranch land and has no official government status. On a community conservancy the tourism stakeholders (i.e. the safari camps) lease the land from the local communities on the condition that the land is managed in a manner that is of benefit to both people and animals. The (normally very high) fees you pay to stay in a conservancy go toward paying the land leasing fees as well as various community and environmental projects.

Other conservancies may be located on private ranchland, in which case they have to make enough money for the landowner to financially justify turning his land over to wildlife conservation over cattle ranching.

In other words, a conservancy is run for the benefit of both wildlife conservation, tourism and the needs of local communities (in many cases local people are allowed to continue to graze their cattle on a conservancy but in a controlled and sustainable manner).

All of this means that staying in a conservancy is not just a great safari experience but it’s also very good news for conservation!

Do a homestay

For a cultural experience you’ll never forget, try spending a night at a Maasai homestay near the Masai Mara. Finding authentic, community-run homestays can be a bit of a minefield. I can recommend Sekenani Maasai Development Project (Semadep) but there are others – make sure you book with a community owned and operated outfit, and check reviews carefully.

Caution needed: "Human safaris"

In my opinion, one of the big problems with the safari industry is the way it prioritises seeing wildlife over having meaningful connections with local people. In fact, other than being served by their guides, drivers and camp employees, a typical safari-goer might not have any interaction with a local at all. To me, this is the exact opposite of how it should be done! In my experience, a good trip to Kenya isn't just about seeing wildlife: it should put intimate, authentic interactions with local people at the heart of the whole experience. You can make genuine connections and real friendships as you sit around, sharing stories, laughing and learning from each other.

On the other hand, mainstream Kenya safaris are often sold with "village tour" or even "slum tour" add-ons. These "goldfish bowl safaris" as I call them are unethical and nothing short of exploitation. They violate the privacy, integrity and dignity of local communities and undermine sustainable development by perpetuating a myth of backward, poverty-stricken people. The traveller thinks they're doing the right thing by getting some cultural interaction, but in reality it's deeply damaging. I strongly encourage visitors to avoid anything that feels contrived, and look for trips that put real people at the heart of the experience, rather than an afterthought.

How to plan & book a Kenya safari

There are three broad categories of safaris in Kenya.

The first and easiest option is to book a week(s)-long, multi-stop itinerary through a tour operator, either locally-based or international. This provides the most hand-holding and support for cautious visitors, plus more protection should things go wrong. The potential downside is getting shunted onto one of the more formulaic itineraries and simply following the crowds around the most popular parks. If you book a full tour with an operator, try to find a genuine specialist and ask about visiting some of the lesser-known locations mentioned in this guide.

Secondly you can simply show up and book a safari tour once in-country from the hundreds of operators in Nairobi. There’s nothing inherently wrong with doing it this way but I strongly advise you don’t just book something in the street. Do your homework first and find a reputable, responsible operator. Things to double check include whether park entry fees are included in the price, vehicle type (avoid cramped minibuses), and accommodation type.

Thirdly, and probably my recommendation for all but the most cautious of visitors, is to book the accommodation yourself, rent a car (or a car plus driver), and head out solo. You can take your own camping gear or book into lodges or camps (booking ahead is essential!), or mix camping with more comfortable nights in lodges. I strongly advise renting a vehicle plus driver. It’s often cheaper plus you get an unofficial local guide who knows the ropes. A good driver will become a cultural and language translator, wildlife guide, fixer, and general guardian angel.

Aim for shoulder season if possible

High season in Kenya is the peak summer months of July to September, before the rains begin. In my experience the best time to visit – especially in the busier parks – is either June before the crowds arrive or September-October as the crowds are thinning out, wildlife viewing is excellent and temperatures are ideal.

The best time to visit Kenya for safari

January & FebruaryThis is a hot and dry period…

Be prepared to splash out!

There are almost as many different ways of doing a safari as there are stripes on a zebra and how, when and where you safari makes a huge difference to what you pay. Expect to pay anything from $150 to $1,000+ per person per day.

You can find very low budget two or three day safaris to the Mara from around $250 all in, but these are generally rushed, crowded and uncomfortable. If you’re looking to shave off some costs without compromising on the experience, consider doing a DIY camping safari with your own vehicle and driver.

My other big Keny safari tip is to spend as much as your budget allows on fewer nights in better conservancies and camps. Packing more into fewer days gives you much greater bang for your buck.

Kenya safari costs

For a multi-day, mid-range safari visiting some of the big name parks and reserves then you’re looking at around USD $300-600 per person, per day…

Kenya safari FAQs

Your questions, our expert answers, is it safe / a good idea to rent a car in kenya and drive yourself around, or is it better to join a tour.

Yes, it's perfectly easy to do a self-drive Kenya safari . When you ask if it's "safe" that depends a little on what you mean. If you mean are there bandits, car jackings, dangers from wildlife, etc, then no you are quite safe. Instead the danger is from other drivers, as the driving conditions can be a little 'hectic' in places and accidents are common.

I'd recommend hiring a car with a driver, which can be a cheaper and, in my opinion, a much better option. A good driver will know the lay of the land, the driving conditions, best places to stop for lunch, etc. And they are often knowledgeable of the wildlife. A good driver will be both your driver and guide, and probably become your friend!

Almost any tour company in Nairobi or Mombasa can organise a private vehicle with a driver. Standards and prices vary hugely, so explain to the tour company exactly where you want to go and get in writing exactly what is and isn't included. Pay particular attention as to whether fuel, and the drivers food and accommodation is included in the rates. Also make sure you're booking the right vehicle: a 4WD may be needed for more remote areas.

Where’s the best place to see the big five in Kenya?

Seeing all the big five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo & rhino) in one park is hard. Only Lewa and some of the conservancies in Laikipia can honestly claim to offer easy sightings of all five. But, who cares! This fixation on racing around to tick off just five species is an anachronism from colonial-era big game hunting days. There’s so much more to Kenya’s wildlife and the modern safari experience.

We're visiting the Masai Mara but would like to visit another area on safari in Kenya. Can you recommend anywhere very different to the Masai Mara to see different wildlife and landscapes?

The most common combinations for a short add-on to the Masai Mara are Amboseli , Laikipia or the Samburu area.

For your requirements of a different habitat and wildlife then without doubt I would suggest Samburu National Reserve. This is a much drier and hotter area than the Mara with different vegetation and animals. And, even the animals you might have seen in the Mara are different up here with different species of giraffe, zebra and ostrich all present (and in my opinion all more beautiful than the kinds in the Mara). The park is also superb for elephants.

Samburu, though still popular, is notably quieter than the Mara and, once away from the river, it's easy to feel you have the place all to yourself (and especially if you go into the co-joined Buffalo Springs and Shaba reserves). Depending on when you are there you will find direct flights from the Mara, but otherwise will have to go via Nairobi. If you're driving it's a long way – a 10 hour non-stop drive, so flying is the better option.

Would you recommend staying at Elephant Bedroom Camp in Samburu Reserve, or at Sarara Camp in Namyunak Conservancy?

The quantity and ease of seeing the wildlife is better in Samburu Reserve than in the neighbouring Namyunak Conservancy (because the wildlife is drawn to the river running through the reserve). But there's not a huge difference in habitats or species between the two.

Elephant Bedroom Camp, in Samburu, is a fabulous, small camp. You'll see a lot of elephants and the owners are some of the worlds foremost elephant experts.

In Namyunak Conservancy, Sarara Camp is one of the most exclusive – yet low-key – camps in Kenya. There's slightly less wildlife than in the reserve but it's very close to the reserve and safaris from Sarara often enter the reserve.

The bonus with Sarara is exclusivity. You and the other camp guests will have the entire place to yourself meaning no crowding around animals (though that's rarely a problem in Samburu).

Unlike in the reserve itself you can do walking safaris in the conservancy and there will be more interaction with local people. The final plus is that by staying on a conservancy you will be actively helping to fund private/community conservation initiatives, which isn't always the case when staying only in a reserve or national park.

Overall then, I would opt for Sarara Camp, but I suspect it does cost more, so it might come down to budget!

We are travelling with a large group of 5 families with 3-4 kids per family. What are the best budget friendly safaris in Kenya in July?

If most of the children in your group are very young, your options are fairly limited as the reality is that a longer, multi-day safari can be a bit much with very young kids. I first did a safari with my kids when they were five and two years old and although it was good I probably wouldn't do it again! Past the age of about eight or nine the safari experience gets much easier, as they'll will tolerate sitting in a jeep on a bumpy road for longer.

Do be aware that some safari camps don't accept children below the age of 12. These are normally the unfenced camps and it's done for safety reasons.

You will also need to keep in mind that you will either need several safari jeeps and to travel in convoy or a bus (and these aren't always allowed in some parks). Because you will be travelling with so many children I would suggest small safari camps which you can book out for your group alone. Some of these are more child friendly than others. Some possibiltles that I believe might work well for your group are: Maji Moto Eco Camp, Loita Hills Basecamp, and if you are interested in a Maasai homestay style experience then I'd suggest Semadep Camp, who can arrange homestays around the Masai Mara.

As for specific parks and reserves the Masai Mara area is good because there's a lot of animals to see everywhere you look which keeps children interested. Also good are Nairobi and Narok national parks because of easy access and good roads. Lake Naivasha is good for families too.

It would be easy to combine all these places into a 10 day safari and then you could maybe finish up on the beach (Lamu and Watamu are both superb for families).

Can you recommend any family-friendly camps/lodges in the Masai Mara?

I would suggest rather than staying within Masai Mara proper, stay in one of the conservancies that now fringe the Mara.

In the most basic of terms these are like private, community-run wildlife reserves. Conservancy operators lease the land from local people and each local family receives a guaranteed monthly payment. The conservancy also provides employment and sets up development projects. People continue to graze their cattle but in a more controlled manner. And in return, fences are removed and the wildlife encouraged to return to the lands they were once driven out of. The conservancies have been a great success both for wildlife and local people. And, for tourists, they offer a very exclusive experience and the world's finest safaris.

Each conservancy has only a handful of very discreet high end camps and only guests of those camps can go on a safari in the conservancy, which means crowds of vehicles around a lion are non-existent.

The conservancies also allow activities not permitted within the reserve such as walking (highly recommended), bush camping, night safaris, etc. This makes them ideal for kids because it breaks up the routine and allows a little more freedom.

The safari vehicles and guides used in the conservancies are absolutely the best in the game and the wildlife populations are the equal of the actual reserve. However, there's a catch (of course...), conservation like this doesn't come cheap. All of the conservancies are superb but some names are Naboisho, Mara North and Nashulai Maasai Conservancy (this last one being slightly cheaper than the others and lots of focus on meeting local people). As for actual camps you cannot go wrong with any of them. All the conservancy camps are superb. I'm a big fan of the Basecamp offerings, Off-Beat and Kicheche. All are a little less extravagant than some of the other camps.

If you want to only visit the reserve and not a conservancy then I suggest either Basecamp Mara, Oldarpoi or you could go for a Maasai homestay in Sekenani village. Expect basic but perfectly comfortable rooms but an amazing experience. Your kids would really enjoy this.

Is February a good time to visit the Masai Mara, or would June-July be better? What would be the differences?

February is a very good time for safari in the Masai Mara , but also very different to the experience in June and July.

It's hotter and drier in February and generally there are fewer other tourists. There will still be plenty of zebra and wildebeest around but these are the non-migrating resident herds, so they don't form the massive iconic herds that you might see on TV.

July is good because the migrant wildebeest are all normally in the Mara by then, but its also absolute peak high season so can be busy and expensive. June is perhaps my overall favourite month. Everything is green after the rains and it's nice and cool with far fewer tourists than July, but the first migrant wildebeest might start to arrive (it all depends on rains and the state of the grass).

In short, all three months are excellent but each is different so it might be best to go with whatever just suits your timings better.

I will be in Kenya in early March and am looking for a five day safari for wildlife photography and birdwatching. Where would you recommend for me noting it is the start of the rainy season?

Early March is still a bit early for the rainy season so you might just get the odd thunderstorm. If birds are your real interest and you only have five days then probably the easiest is to go down to the Masai Mara via the Rift Valley lakes of Naivasha and Elementia or Nakuru. This would give you a good range of avian habitats and species in a short space of time. Don't forget as well that Nairobi itself has some excellent birding in the various forests and parklands in and around the city. Plus of course, there's the superb Nairobi National Park where you will see a lot of wildlife and birds.

We can't travel during the migration river crossings, are there other impressive spectacles at other times of year?

Yes! I think calving season during the wildebeest migration is just as spectacular as the more famous river crossing period.

This period runs from December to March around the Ndutu Plains to the south of Serengeti. During this time the wildebeest and zebra stampede over the plains preparing to give birth to thousands of calves. At the same time the big cats are on the lookout for an easy snack. With vast numbers of animals, their sounds and smells, all of the little calves, and the big cats on the lookout... it's theatre on an epic scale and you cannot be disappointed. And the extra benefit is that it's a much shorter drive here than to see the river crossings.

Robbin Meulemans

In this guide:, typical prices for a safari in kenya, when to go on safari in kenya, things to do in kenya other than safari, best safari camps and lodges in the masai mara, about the author.

Stuart is an award-winning travel journalist covering safari, trekking and conservation in Africa for the Lonely Planet, Rough Guides, BBC, Bradt Travel Guides, amongst many others. He is the author of Walking With The Maasai , a journey through some of Kenya's lesser-visited Maasai lands.

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The 12 best national parks in Kenya

Apr 4, 2023 • 13 min read

Nairobi National Park is one of the best protected spaces to spot wildlife in Kenya © Heath Holden / Getty Images

National parks and Kenya go hand in hand. It’s home to a whopping 23 of them, as well as four marine national parks. From the unforgettable scene of thousands of wildebeest crossing the Mara River during their migration to the sight of steaming geysers at Hell’s Gate National Park , Kenya certainly has no shortage of protected parks, reserves, marine parks, and privately owned conservancies.

Many people go on safari in Kenya with a steely determination to see the Big Five (rhino, buffalo, elephants, leopards, and lions). The term originates from colonial-era hunters who deemed these to be the most dangerous animals to hunt on foot, so don’t let an obsession with seeing them all stop you from visiting national parks that don’t feature the full list – you’re sure to spot plenty of other equally fascinating creatures.

From spectacular scenery and geothermal springs to brilliantly colored birdlife and the indigenous communities that live in and around these areas, Kenya’s national parks are about more than wildlife, and you’ll be in for a treat whatever parks you choose to visit. These are the 12 best national parks in Kenya.

1. Masai Mara National Reserve

Known locally as the Mara, the Masai Mara National Reserve is Kenya’s most famous national park, not least because from July to October, it’s the route for the Great Migration, the spectacle of thousands of wildebeest, giraffes and zebra traveling from the Serengeti in southern Tanzania across the Mara River to the lush grass of Kenya. Nile crocodiles lie on the riverbanks waiting for their prey.

The semi-nomadic Maasai communities are another draw, with travelers attracted to their traditional singing and dancing, warrior traditions and colorful dress. The Maasai people own several private reserves around the Mara, which are leased to different safari companies, and these are one way to support community-powered tourism. A bush walk with a Maasai warrior is a wonderful way to appreciate the community’s connection with the land, as they point out wildlife and medicinal plants.

It’s not always easy to ensure cultural tourism experiences are genuinely ethical and non-exploitative. Ideally, visit a Maasai-run project, or ask your tour operator exactly where your money goes. If companies claim to support community projects, ask how and if you can see them. Conversely, some tourists report being overcharged (for crafts or a photo, for example), but this is often the consequence of years of communities seeing wealthy travelers pass through their villages on expensive tours that haven’t benefited them.

The Mara is a Big Five park, home to rhinos, buffalo, elephants, leopards and lions. The Mara has one of the world’s highest densities of lions, but the birdlife – 470 species, including birds of prey and migratory birds – and the wild savanna are just as alluring. To get a sense of the vastness of the Mara, book a hot-air balloon safari. You’ll see why the Maasai people named it the Mara (“spotted land”) as you float over specks of shrubs, cloud shadows, and animal herds. Walking and horseback safaris, in the company of armed rangers, are an incredible way to experience the beauty of the Mara up close.

2. Amboseli National Park

In southern Kenya near Tanzania, Amboseli National Park is known for its big-tusked (tusker) elephant herds – the population is estimated at 1500 – and its views of Mt Kilimanjaro . The relatively stable number of elephants is mostly thanks to the work of the Amboseli Trust for Elephants, one of the most celebrated such projects in the world. Amboseli doesn’t get as much rain as other parks but has a network of swamps instead – due to its mountain forest environment – which attracts a lot of birdlife. The park is also home to big cats, buffalo, Maasai giraffe, antelopes and vervet monkeys.

The word “Amboseli” comes from the Maasai for “salty dust,” and you’ll often see elephants caked in this dry, white mud after a good wallow. This region is also home to Maasai people. Some conservation areas such as Selenkay are Maasai-owned, and you can support the community by staying in and visiting their villages.

To photograph views of Kilimanjaro, aim for an early wake-up call when it’s clear and before the clouds come in. Weather patterns, environmental issues and climate change have also changed the movement of wildlife, so you might now see flamingos in Amboseli, when before they were more commonly sighted at Lake Naivasha or Lake Nakuru . Wildebeest, not usually a common sight in Amboseli, have also been spotted recently.

Outside of the rainy season, Lake Amboseli is dry, which can make for beautifully stark photography. For incredible views of the park, head to Observation Hill, where you can see the swamp being enjoyed by elephants, hippos, and more.

3. Tsavo National Park

Made up of two national parks, Tsavo East National Park and Tsavo West National Park , Tsavo in southwest Kenya is best known for its large elephant herds and impressive semi-arid landscape. Tsavo East is one of Kenya’s oldest parks and, combined with Tsavo West, comprises Kenya’s largest national park.

The parks were split when the railway line from Mombasa to Kenya’s interior was constructed, and now a highway also runs between Nairobi and Mombasa, making Tsavo a great safari stop-off on a city-to-coast vacation.

The two parks have slightly different terrains. Tsavo East is mostly flat plains, with the Galana River flowing through. Camping along the river is one of the highlights of Tsavo, as is taking a walking safari across the vast Yatta Plateau, the world’s longest lava flow at 300km (186 miles).

Tsavo West, home to Lake Jipe and Mzima Springs , is wetter, more mountainous and swampier. Bird spotting is better in Tsavo West, which has around 500 species. Most impressive of all is the force of Mzima Springs, where 50 million gallons of water rush out from the lava rock. The lushness makes for prolific game-viewing, with elephants, hippos, crocodiles, zebras, giraffes and monkeys hydrating and hanging out in this verdant terrain. For epic views, it’s hard to beat the scene over the plains from Poacher's Lookout .

4. Nairobi National Park

Opened in 1946, Nairobi National Park was Kenya’s first national park and is the world’s only national park within a city. Some travelers even manage to get in a few wildlife sightings on their way to or from the airport.

It’s deeply surreal to be on an open plain with Nairobi’s skyscrapers as a backdrop, and among the acacia bush, you’ll spot a variety of game, including lions, leopards, buffalo and the endangered black rhino. The park has developed a successful rhino conservation program and restocked other parks through their breeding projects. As in many national parks across Kenya, the birdlife is excellent, with more than 400 species recorded here.

The park has designated picnic spots, walking trails around the hippo pools and campsites, so it’s a viable choice for a day trip or overnight if you don’t have time to travel farther. Also inside the park is the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust , a rhino and elephant sanctuary that retains links with Tsavo National Park, where David Sheldrick worked as an anti-poaching warden. Visitors to the sanctuary can see the Trust’s rescue and rehabilitation program in practice and watch the animals at feeding time, from a distance.

5. Mt Kenya National Park

If you’re a hiker or a climber, Kenya’s second highest mountain, Mt Kenya , deserves a spot near the top of your best treks list for the trail to Point Lenana, the main peak for trekkers. Mt Kenya National Park has great camping, including wild camping along some of the lesser-used trails, and rock climbing on the lower peaks. The park also features a 10km (6.2-mile) hike up to the Met Station if you only have time for a day excursion.

This Unesco-listed park is pure joy to explore, with its ecosystem of lakes, glaciers, mineral springs and Afro-Alpine forest. You’re in for sweeping views of high ridges, deep valleys and dense forest gradually meeting glacial terrain as you go higher into the park.

Mt Kenya is home to elephant, mongoose, bushbuck, eland and colobus monkeys, but it’s the walking trails and scenery that are its biggest attraction. Mt Kenya lies within the Laikipia Plateau , a network of conservancies mostly managed by local communities, so it’s an excellent region for community-based tourism accommodation. The three-day drive from Nairobi to Mt Kenya National Park is also one of Kenya's best road trips .

6. Aberdare National Park

Aberdare National Park is perhaps the most distinctive of all Kenya’s national parks, a place to savor nature in the cooler climes of the central highlands. While you will see wildlife, Aberdare is known primarily for the outstanding natural beauty of its misty forests and river valleys. The High Park, as the higher moorlands are sometimes called, is perfect for hiking. You can climb the peaks of Lesatima, Il Kinangop and Kipipiri easily, but you’ll need a guide and a pass, so arrange your excursion in advance.

Created in 1950 to protect the Aberdare mountains, which drop to the Rift Valley on the western side, the park comprises dense forest, steep ravines, open moorland and thundering waterfalls. It is home to black rhinos, elephants, baboons, colobus monkeys, buffalo and elusive leopard. Birdwatchers are also in for a treat, with more than 250 species sighted.

The park also has a lot of history. In the 1950s, the dense forest hid Kenya’s Kikuyu Mau Mau guerrillas during their struggle against European colonization. And it is home to Treetops Lodge, where Princess Elizabeth found out she would be Queen of the United Kingdom in 1952 after the early death of her father. You need a good 4WD vehicle if you’re heading to Aberdare, especially when it’s rainy.

7. Meru and Kora national parks

If you’re looking for rugged, remote and pristine landscapes, Meru and Kora national parks in the Rift Valley are great options. These parks contain vast grasslands, thorny bush, gushing rivers and thick jungle, and you’ll find Grevy’s zebras, elephants, buffalo, hippos and giraffes – plus more than 420 bird species.

The landscape, with huge swathes of savanna, dries out in the dry season, so staying cool and hydrated is important. A good eight-hour drive from Nairobi, Meru and Kora are some of the more off-the-beaten-track national parks.

8. Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve , north of Laikipia, is a popular park on the northern safari circuit. It’s home to the “Special 5” – Grevy’s zebra, Somali (blue-necked) ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk and beisa oryx (both types of antelope) – so-called because they’re not typically found in Kenya’s southern game reserves. The Samburu and Rendille people of this region are involved in protecting and monitoring Grevy’s zebras.

Named after the Samburu people, nomadic pastoralists, and a warrior people for whom this region is home, this national park is one of the best places to see leopards in Kenya, and it’s a prime spot for tuskers. You can also experience Samburu culture and go on camel-trekking safaris with Samburu guides.

Drought is an issue in Samburu. Far drier than the Mara, the Ewaso Nyiro River is a lifeline for the pastoral communities, wildlife and flora and fauna. When wildlife gathers on the river banks, it’s quite a sight, and a photographer’s dream. Samburu is one of the parks where George and Joy Adamson of Born Free -fame raised Elsa the lioness.

9. Hell’s Gate National Park

A unique element of the Great Rift Valley is the dramatic landscape of Hell’s Gate National Park , one of the most atmospheric of Kenya’s national parks. Geothermal steam rises from the ground in an epic landscape of volcanoes, basalt columns, high cliffs and gorges. From a huge natural spa pool managed by KenGen (Kenya’s main electric power producer), you can enjoy the views over a hot soak.

While wildlife isn’t the prime reason for visiting Hell’s Gate, the park counts zebras, buffalos, antelopes, and baboons among its residents. Its 100 recorded bird species include vultures and Verreaux's eagles. You’ll also sometimes spot raptors that have set up their nests in the cliffs. The park is particularly popular with walkers, mountain bikers, rock climbers, and cyclists. If you’re a Lion King fan, you’ll be impressed that the rock formation at Hell’s Gate Gorge is what inspired Pride Rock.

Hell’s Gate National Park is a doable day trip from Nairobi, often combined with Lake Nakuru or smaller soda (alkaline) Lake Elmenteita , which has a population of flamingos.

10. Lake Nakuru National Park

Within driving distance of Nairobi, Unesco-listed Lake Nakuru on the floor of the Great Rift Valley allows you to pack a game drive, birdwatching, a hike and a picnic into one day.

With around 450 bird species recorded, Lake Nakuru National Park is a particularly good place for spotting water birds because of high algae levels, although flamingo numbers have been dropping as issues around pollution and human encroachment have affected the lake. It still attracts many pelicans and other water birds. You’ll also see animals such as waterbuck and white rhinos. The park is known for its annual 50km (31 miles) Cycle With the Rhinos race, which raises funds for the endangered rhino.

The lake is surrounded by high ridges: head to the viewpoints of Lion Hill, Baboon Cliffs and the Out of Africa Lookpoint for some of the best vistas over the lake and valley. Many travelers combine this national park with a visit to the Menengai Crater , the caldera just outside Nakuru town, which has incredible views over the landscape. The crater is the site of a Mau Mau Cave, where guerrilla soldiers camped out during the 1950s Mau Mau uprising in resistance to British colonial rule.

11. Lake Naivasha

Though not technically a national park, with its deep blue freshwater lake and nearby patchwork of waterfalls, gorges, acacia forests and extinct volcanoes, Lake Naivasha is one of the prettiest and most accessible areas near Nairobi. Hippos are at home in the high-altitude lake, which often has pelicans and other water birds nearby. On the banks, you’ll see small herds of zebra, buffalo and several species of antelope. It’s a top destination for birding, especially birds of prey.

The naturalist Joy Adamson lived on the shores of Lake Naivasha with her husband George, where together they raised the lion cub Elsa. The story became an award-winning book and film, Born Free . Their former home, Elsamere , is now a museum and conservation and field study center.

12. Lake Turkana National Parks

Three parks – Sibiloi National Park , the South Island and Central Island National Parks – make up the Unesco-listed Lake Turkana National Parks, surrounding the vivid greenish-blue Lake Turkana, the world’s largest permanent desert lake. This otherworldy region is ideal for the adventurous traveler: it’s hot, dry, windy, vast and volcanic.

Central Island consists of three active volcanoes and three crater lakes, where you’ll find the largest concentration of Nile crocodiles in the world, plus enormous Nile perch and tilapia fish. You should see a decent amount of game – such as zebras, hyenas, kudu – and if you’re lucky, lions, cheetahs and leopards. Volcanic ash covers South Island, which has become a breeding ground for more than 20 bird species and a large crocodile population.

Lake Turkana hosts one of Kenya’s biggest cultural festivals. The three-day Lake Turkana Festival in Loyangalani on the southeastern coast of the lake celebrates the heritage of the communities that live here, who fish in the Lake Turkana basin, and whose languages and cultures require the same preservation as the environment.

Lonely Planet contributor Helena Smith provided additional edits and fact-checking.

This article was first published August 2022 and updated April 2023

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Maasai Mara & beyond: 5 must-see safari parks in Kenya

As a key stop on the Great Migration, the Maasai Mara is one of Africa's biggest draws. But go beyond and you can find quieter parks for budget-friendly ways to spot big cats and more.

Few visitors to Kenya can resist the siren call of its top wildlife-watching area, the Maasai Mara. Its sweeping grasslands ­— blonde and close-cropped in the dry season, green and earthy after rain — stretch for hundreds of miles. Famous for big cats and the drama of the Great Migration, this is the kind of place where a budding interest in all things safari can develop into an addiction.

During the Great Migration, which visits Kenya between July and September, vast herds of wildebeest and zebras hover nervously on the riverbanks, waiting to cross. Their fear is well-placed: crocodiles lurk in the water, ready to snap. For visitors, witnessing such scenes can be life-changing. But with wildlife in residence all year, the Mara is compelling off-season, too. And, as a bonus, once the milling migrants have finally dispersed, prices tend to plummet.

Partly council-managed, partly community-owned, the Mara is several parks in one. While some camps charge a fortune for an all-inclusive, fly-in experience in a private conservancy, affordable alternatives also exist. If you can stretch to a group tour or a rented 4x4 vehicle, with or without a driver, head west to the delightful and relatively crowd-free Mara Triangle. Here, it’s possible to pitch a tent at a public campsite and let the wilderness work its magic.

The villages of Sekenani or Talek also make good-value bases. Located just outside the main reserve, they’re cheap to reach by matatu (public minibus) or shared taxi from Narok, which is on bus routes from the capital Nairobi. The low-cost camps and guesthouses in these villages organise group drives into the reserve. While many of them deliver an excellent experience, there’s an elephant in the room: the Narok side of the Mara is on the brink of overtourism, with some drivers speeding, jostling on the river banks and bending the official rules about crowding predators. The Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association is a good place to find a trustworthy guide who will avoid this practice.

Alternatives beyond the Mara

In Kenya’s state-run parks, close-to-nature accommodation comes cheap and shares the same territory as the high-end lodges.

1. Nairo bi Best for: a quick warm-up

No other African capital is as blessed with wilderness as Nairobi; its eponymous national park lies on its doorstep and is also an ecological education and research hub, with an exemplary record in protecting rhinos. You can see giraffes, hyenas and even lions here. The Kenya Wildlife Service has no accommodation in the park, but it’s easy to plan day trips from the many low-cost hotels — either in central Nairobi or out of town.How to do it: Park entry is US$43 (£35) per day. Swara Acacia has half-board doubles from US$94 (£75).

2. Tsavo West Best for: lions

Tsavo West National Park is half way between Nairobi and Mombasa in Kenya’s deep south, and elephants, leopards and rhinos can be found here. But it’s the lions that everyone wants to see — descendants of maneless males that once terrorised a group of construction workers.How to do it: Park entry is US$52 (£42) per day. Kenya Wildlife Service campsites cost US$20 (£16) per person. Bandas (self-catering cottages) from US$50 (£40) per person.

3. Amboseli Best for: elephants

Mount Kilimanjaro looms above the acacia-dotted grasslands of Amboseli, a national park south of Nairobi. Since 1972 the park has been home to the Amboseli Elephant Research Project — the world’s longest-running study of elephant behaviour in the wild. How to do it: Park entry is US$70 (£55) per day. Kenya Wildlife Service campsites cost US$30 (£24) per person. Bandas cost from US$90 (£71) per person.

4. Meru Best for scenery

If you’re keen to get away from the crowds, try Meru. It’s one of the country’s most under-rated national parks, around a five-hour drive northeast of Nairobi. Cooled by gushing streams, it’s a stronghold for hippos and other animals endemic to East Africa such as long-necked gerenuk antelopes.How to do it: Park entry is US$52 (£42) per day. Kenya Wildlife Service campsites cost US$20 (£16) per person. Bandas cost from US$80 (£64) per person.

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Kenya Travel Guide Kenya

Parks & reserves (31).

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​National Parks & Game Reserves – Kenya

Premier parks & reserves, all parks & reserves.

Aberdare National Park  

Aberdare National Park 

Walking safaris, forest elephants and tree hotels

Amboseli National Park  

Amboseli National Park 

Classic safaris, great elephant viewing, famous for its Mt Kilimanjaro views

Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve  

Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve 

Hiking, no Big Five , birding hot spot and butterflies

Borana Conservancy (Laikipia)  

Classic and horseback safaris, private reserve, Big Five present, lots of rhino

Buffalo Springs National Reserve  

Buffalo Springs National Reserve 

Classic dry-country safaris, four of the Big Five (no rhino), adjoins Samburu NR

Chyulu Hills National Park  

Chyulu Hills National Park 

Caving, cloud forests and antelope species

Hell’s Gate National Park  

Hell’s Gate National Park 

Cycling, walking and climbing, with mainly buffalo and antelope species

Kakamega Forest National Reserve  

Kakamega Forest National Reserve 

Hiking, small antelope species and primates, birding hot spot

Kora National Park  

Kora National Park 

Beautiful scenery, famous for lions, wildlife scarce

Laikipia Plateau  

Laikipia Plateau 

Area containing multiple private reserves, abundant wildlife (many rhino)

Lake Bogoria National Reserve  

Lake Bogoria National Reserve 

Stunning scenery, mainly antelope species, famous for its flamingos

Lake Nakuru National Park  

Lake Nakuru National Park 

Classic safaris, black and white rhino , lion and leopard, no elephant, family-friendly

Lake Turkana  

Lake Turkana 

Cultural visits, desert scenery, wildlife scarce but good birding and Nile crocodiles

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy (Laikipia)  

Classic safaris, private reserve, Big Five present

Loisaba Conservancy (Laikipia)  

Classic safaris, private reserve, Big Five present, northern Kenyan specials

Mara North Conservancy (Greater Masai Mara)  

Classic Mara safaris without the crowds, fantastic for big cats , wildebeest migration

Marsabit National Park  

Marsabit National Park 

Crater lake, big-tusked elephants, excellent birding

Masai Mara National Reserve  

Masai Mara National Reserve 

Classic safaris, Big Five present (rhino rare), many big cats , wildebeest migration

Meru National Park  

Meru National Park 

Classic safaris, Big Five present (rhino in fenced sanctuary)

Naboisho Conservancy (Greater Masai Mara)  

Classic Mara safaris, fantastic for big cats , beautiful savannah scenery

Nairobi National Park  

Nairobi National Park 

Classic safaris, four of the Big Five (no elephant), city skyscrapers as backdrop

Ol Pejeta Conservancy (Laikipia)  

Classic safaris, private reserve, Big Five present, chimpanzee sanctuary

Ruma National Park  

Ruma National Park 

Off the beaten track, black rhino , leopard, giraffe and antelope species present

Saiwa Swamp National Park  

Saiwa Swamp National Park 

Hiking, sitatunga antelope , no major safari animals, birding hot spot

Samburu National Reserve  

Samburu National Reserve 

Classic dry-country safaris, four of the Big Five (no rhino), adjoins Buffalo Springs NR

Shaba National Reserve  

Shaba National Reserve 

Classic dry-country safaris, although wildlife can be scarce

Shimba Hills National Reserve  

Shimba Hills National Reserve 

Classic safaris, abundant elephant

Solio Ranch (Laikipia)  

Classic safaris, private reserve, famous for its rhino population

Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary  

Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary 

Classic safaris, rarely crowded, lush scenery, fascinating history

Tsavo East National Park  

Tsavo East National Park 

Classic safaris, adjoins Tsavo West, good for elephants and big cats

Tsavo West National Park  

Tsavo West National Park 

Classic safaris, adjoins Tsavo East, Big Five present, low wildlife densities

Safari Tours to Kenya

4-Day Maasai Mara and Lake Nakuru Luxury Safari

$1,276 to $2,134 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Nairobi (End)

Kenya Tulia Safari Holiday Arcade

5.0 /5  –  48 Reviews

5-Day Masai Mara Lake Nakuru Amboseli

$1,298 to $2,046 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Amboseli NP, Nairobi (End)

Beacon Safaris

4.9 /5  –  266 Reviews

5-Day Masai Mara Fly-in Luxury Tour

$4,851 to $5,071 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Luxury Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Nairobi (End)

Nashibe Adventures

5.0 /5  –  13 Reviews

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20 of Kenya’s Best Safari Camps and Lodges

Author: Antoinette Booyse - 1 October 2022

Last Update: 30 January 2024

Part of the Kenya Trips & Nairobi National Park & Chyulu Hills And Amboseli Safaris & Safari In Aberdare National Park & Safari Holiday In East Africa & African Safari Collection

Kenya is often thought of as the ultimate safari destination , and it’s easy to see why. The country is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and rhinos. Not only does Kenya have some of the best safari camps , but it also has many lodges, hotels, guest houses and accommodation options.

Kenya’s safari landscape includes everything from snow-capped mountains to palm-fringed beaches. Its vibrant culture is on display in bustling cities and traditional villages. Whether you’re looking for an African adventure or a relaxing beach vacation, Kenya has something for everyone.

In this post, we’ll take a look at twenty of the best accommodation options in and around Kenya:

1. Tortilis Camp, Amboseli National Park

This luxury Kenyan safari camp in the shade of beautiful acacia tortilis trees has stunning views of snow-capped Kilimanjaro  and Mount Meru in Tanzania. It offers guests roomy tents set well apart ensuring privacy, making it ideal for couples and honeymooners. However, there is a family tent as well.

The  luxurious Tortilis Camp  tents have comfortable beds, gorgeous ensuite bathrooms and private verandas. The beautiful swimming pool area, with tempting loungers invitingly set out, simply compels relaxation.

The safari camp has a private entrance to Amboseli National Park  renowned for its magnificent elephant herds. Mouthwatering Italian cuisine and superb service makes a stay at Tortilis unforgettable!

2. Ol Donyo Lodge, Chyulu Hills

Situated between Tsavo East and Amboseli National Parks,  ol Donyo  (meaning ‘large mountain’) is located on the Masai-owned Mbirikani Group Ranch. It nestles picturesquely in the foothills of the  Chyulu Hills  in Kenya’s renowned Amboseli National Park.

The lodge combines Masai culture and contemporary design to create the perfect setting for a luxury safari. Guests stay in six-roomy ensuite villas with well-appointed lounges, verandas and private plunge pools. Roof terrace star beds allow you to sleep out under the stars in a peerless experience of nature. An executive chef and his skilled team ensure fine cuisine matched with hand-picked wines and impeccable service!

The open-air hide ensures fantastic wildlife viewing. Horseback and mountain bike excursions, and expertly guided nature walks complete this unparalleled wildlife experience.  

3. Alfajiri Villas , Diani Beach

Condé Nast Traveller rated Alfajiri Villas amongst the most luxurious in the world, and they offer the ultimate in relaxation, comfort and personalised pampering. Located on stunning Diani Beach, washed by the balmy waters of the Indian Ocean, these villas ensure a magical beach holiday . Vibrant  Mombasa  is just 30km north.

All three of the exclusive-use villas come with their own personal butler service, meals tailored to your taste, and private swimming pools. A masseuse is on hand for daily massages, and the owner will personally arrange all your activities, like snorkelling, kite surfing, golf and skydiving. And you’ll enjoy some of the most delicious and freshest sea-to-table seafood you’ve ever tasted!

An excellent choice after staying at one of Kenya’s best safari camps.

4. Kinondo Kwetu , Galu Beach

If barefoot luxury in a relaxed setting is your style, Kinondo Kwetu is the place for you! Located on the pristine Indian Ocean shoreline just south of Diani Beach, this beautiful hotel is the only one on private Galu Beach.

It is surrounded by verdant coastal forests and offers water activities like swimming, sailing, boating, diving and snorkelling. Beach and forest horse riding, tennis, yoga, golf and wood-fired saunas are also on offer. You can enjoy a romantic dinner on the beach, take in a cultural visit to a local village, or book a boat trip to Paradise Lost Island.

Or just ensconce yourself in a hammock under some whispering palms with a drink or a book while the balmy Indian Ocean breezes gently waft your cares away …  

5. Loisaba Tented Camp, Laikipia

There can be few better views than Loisaba’s across Laikipia’s marvellous landscape all the way to Mount Kenya, over the 56 000-acre private conservancies. And nowhere are the views better than from Loisaba’s  magnificent infinity pool! Relax in the pool with a delicious sundowner whilst watching families of elephants forage below the camp.

Large, high-ceilinged, and airy tents all feature huge floor-to-ceiling windows and doors and windows. The sophisticated decor stylishly combines African influences with modern state-of-the-art lighting systems and showers. The service is impeccable, the food delicious, and a night in your private outdoor star bed will create an indelible memory.

Camel treks, horse riding and mountain biking excursions are all on offer, as are expertly guided bush walks to see rare species like Grevy’s zebra and wild dogs.  

6. Segera Retreat, Laikipia

Located on the rim of the Great Rift Valley,  Segera Retreat  is a sanctuary for numerous species, including endangered African wild dogs, the patas monkey and rare Grevy’s zebras.

Established by  conservationist and art collector Jochen Zeitz , this retreat offers luxury, privacy and stunningly beautiful surroundings and gardens. Coupled with excellent service, delicious cuisine, fine wines, ‘sleep-outs’ under the stars, and an indulgent spa, this unique retreat has it all.

All six thatched and superbly appointed villas have a villa attendant who takes personal care of guests during their visit. Pathways link the villas to tempting daybeds, swimming pools, and bar and lounge areas. Private decks overlook the savannah and the stunning Sculpture Garden. Guided game drives, helicopter excursions, and hidden hides ensure guests have excellent game viewing.

7. The Sanctuary at Ol Lentille, Laikipia

Snuggled into the lush hills of Laikipia’s northern escarpment, the  Ol Lentille Sanctuary combines unsurpassed views with privacy, seclusion, and opulent luxury. Its four uniquely designed, butler-served villas are ideal for honeymooners or couples on safari .

Guests can explore 40 000 acres of pristine wilderness through jogging, quad biking, horse riding, cycling and camel trekking. Guided game drives and bush walks are available, as are kayaking and river-rafting excursions for more adventurous souls.  International cuisine, fine wines and a sumptuous spa and wellness centre put the final seal on this Kenya safari tour of a lifetime!

8. Loldia House, Lakes District

Situated on one of Kenya’s earliest farms near Hell’s Gate National Park, Loldia is a luxury safari lodge that has it all – dormant volcanoes, serene lakes, mind-boggling canyons, and even hot springs!

Ideal for couples and families, it offers luxurious accommodations, fine cuisine, and flawless service. Its relaxed colonial ambience calls more relaxed and gracious times to mind where playing croquet on a velvety lawn and evenings spent talking before a fire was the norm.

A paradise for bird-lovers, Loldia has stupendous views of Lake Naivasha and the extinct volcano, Mount Longonot. Guests can see millions of flamingos on the nearby lakes, rare colobus monkeys, endangered black and white rhinos, lions, leopards, and many other species. You can enjoy boat excursions, horse riding, golf, tennis, fishing, swimming and yes, of course, croquet! And evenings soaking up the peace in front of the fire.

9. Manda Bay, Lamu Archipelago

Part of the Lamu Archipelago, Manda Island lies just off Kenya’s north coast. This gorgeous island is tailor-made for visitors looking for a far-from-the-madding-crowd escape, or a fabulous end to their African safari tour .  

Manda Bay is a tranquil boutique beach resort that offers frequent sightings of humpback whales, dolphins and turtles. A wealth of activities like swimming, waterskiing, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, windsurfing and dhow safaris is on offer. Enjoy some of the delicious food, indulge in a massage, or just relax and soak up the peace.

10. Kifaru House , Lewa

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy’s 62,000 acres lie in the foothills of majestic Mount Kenya, and is an internationally acclaimed success story of collaborative conservation between tribal communities. Luxury lodge Kifaru House is an oasis of incredible views and sweeping lawns overlooking a popular waterhole.

Home to some of  East Africa ’s most thriving populations of black and white rhinos, Lewa also houses the Big Five, cheetah and endangered Grevy’s zebras and black rhinos. Activities include game drives, walking safaris guided by Samburu rangers and an enchanting canopy walk and picnic in Ngare Ndare forest. Horse riding, camel trekking and instructive visits to local Samburu homesteads or  manyattas  will make your eco-safari even more memorable.  

Affordable Masai Mara Safari

East Africa Kenya Maasai Mara

From $ 3050 /USD

Migration River Crossings Safari with Governors...

From $ 4440 /USD

Herdtracker and Kicheche Camps

From $ 4550 /USD

11. Lewa Wilderness Lodge, Lewa

Dating back to 1924, this innovative luxury Lewa Wilderness Lodge  is centred around the original family farmhouse of the Craig family who still run this conservation-centric resort. Guests sleep in nine beautiful, thatched cottages.

Fireplaces, inviting lounge areas and private verandas with incredible views all add to this resort’s unique ambience. Couples, families and ecotourists will all love it. Dining is either private or communal; your choice.

Activities include night and day game drives, guided walks, fly camping, tennis, swimming, horse riding, camel trekking or a visit to the gym. You can have a flight in a vintage bi-plan, or enjoy a magical canopy walk in Ngare Ndare Forest with its numerous waterfalls. A visit to Il NGwesi village will inspire you, as will meeting the anti-poaching dogs that protect this ‘safe house’ for rhinos.

12. Angama Mara, Masai Mara National Reserve

Aptly meaning ‘suspended in midair’ in Swahili,  Angama Mara’s two ultra-luxurious safari camps sit atop two koppies on the edge of the Great Rift Valley. Each enormous tent has a 10-metre-wide glass front that assures unrivalled vistas and game viewing. This includes the crocodile-dense Mara River, the scene of many a drama-filled river crossing during the yearly Great Wildebeest Migration  from August to November!

There’s a magnificent swimming pool, and you can have a massage or a workout in the gym. The camps also have Wi-Fi connectivity, childminders, and laundry facilities.

Guests enjoy game drives, guided walking safaris, hot-air ballooning and delicious cuisine and wines. Birdwatchers will be ecstatic with more than 570 recorded bird species! Photographers will love the onsite photography studio.

13. &Beyond Bateleur Camp, Masai Mara National Reserve

Bateleur Camp  enjoys a superlative location with its stunning infinity pools seeming to do just that – look out on infinity! Its two camps sit at the foot of the massive rock walls of the Oloololo Escarpment and a primaeval riverine forest. Each has nine sumptuous suites tucked away among the trees.

Each ensuite tent is furnished with fine antiques and handcrafted artefacts and has its own shaded deck with chairs and a table. You’ll even be supplied with a pair of Swarovski Optik binoculars to use during your stay, and a personal butler will look after you. Guests enjoy outstanding cuisine, candlelit dinners in a forest clearing, sumptuous bush breakfasts, guided bush walks and hot-air balloon safaris.

An ideally placed deck with tempting armchairs is so inviting that monkeys and warthogs drop in from time to time! &Beyond’s staff are renowned for their excellent service and attention to detail, making this one of the finest safari camps in Kenya.

14. Sanctuary Olonana, Masai Mara National Reserve

Intimate, luxurious,  award-winning Sanctuary Olonana Lodge  nestles scenically in a forest on a private stretch of the iconic Mara River. Apart from excellent game viewing all year round, it guarantees you easy access to the greatest wildlife spectacle on the planet – the Great Wildebeest Migration.

You’ll have the best seats in the house to see thousands of wildebeest and zebra cross the Mara with its gauntlet of Nile crocodiles. The large numbers of predators that stalk them add to the excitement.

Olonana offers family-friendly accommodation in 14 spacious en-suite glass-sided suites with private decks. Game drives, sundowners, delicious dinners in the bush, cultural visits to a Masai village, scenic flights and magical hot-air balloon excursions are all on offer. There’s even a mini spa to help you relax!

15. Elsa’s Kopje, Meru National Park

This luxurious, romantic and award-winning lodge is named after  Elsa , conservationists Joy and George Adamson’s beloved lioness of  Born Free  fame. The camp is crafted into rocky Mughwango Hill just above the original campsite where the Adamsons raised Elsa in Meru National Park.

The Park is real lion and elephant country, and is famous for rhino conservation. Guests can watch game drinking at a waterhole just below the lodge.

All the ensuite cottages have incredible 360° views from their private decks with romantic outdoor bathtubs. You can enjoy bush dinners or breakfasts, picnics, guided 4X4 game drives with sundowners, and rafting on the Tana River. Or have a swim or a relaxing massage, or browse the gift shop or library. And those essentials, wi-fi and a laundry service, have not been forgotten!

16. Giraffe Manor, Nairobi

Want to have dinner with somebody  really  tall, utterly beautiful, and gentle? Then you must stay at  Giraffe Manor in Kenya’s capital , Nairobi. Built-in 1932, it’s a small boutique hotel modelled on a Scottish hunting lodge, so plenty of old-world charm!

The Manor is world-famous for its commitment to conservation and its resident herd of Rothschild’s giraffes. You can feed the giraffes from your breakfast table, or from the window of your second-storey bedroom.

But you will have to book well in advance – the Manor has only 12 much-in-demand bedrooms! Some of the famous people who have stayed here over the years include Brooke Shields, Johnny Carson, Richard Chamberlain, Richard Branson, Ewan McGregor and Walter Cronkite. The latter even had a resident warthog named after him! Now that’s fame for you!

17. Saruni Samburu, Samburu National Reserve

Built into a massive volcanic rock face ensuring spectacular views from its open-air cliff-top reception area,  luxurious Saruni Samburu  is known for its avant-garde design, architecture and décor. Each of the six stunning villas are unique and offer the last word in comfort.

Guests can go on both morning and evening game drives to view Samburu’s Special Five – the endangered Grevy’s zebra, the Somali, or reticulated, giraffe, the Somali ostrich, the East African or beisa oryx, and the graceful long-necked gerenuk gazelle. You can explore the ancient rock art and abundant wildlife of the region on nature walks with Samburu rangers.  Children will love the junior rangers programme, and scrumptious picnics and bush dinners can be arranged. Saruni Samburu is simply one of the best safari camps in the region.

18. Sasaab Camp, Samburu National Reserve

Sasaab luxury tented camp  has a stylish Moroccan ambience and offers riveting views of the endless plains of the Laikipia Plateau and Mount Kenya. Nine uniquely styled tents offer guests deluxe four-poster beds, spacious seating areas, en suite luxury bathrooms, ceiling fans, wi-fi, and roomy verandas with plunge pools.

A spa is available for indulgent pampering, as are in-room beauty treatments and massages. Guests are spoilt with twice-daily game drives, spotlit night drives, guided walking safaris, mountain biking, cultural excursions, camel treks, fly-camping and all-day trips to the Samburu Reserve. Superb Moroccan-styled cuisine is served, and the camp is famous for its pizzas!

19. Lentorre Lodge , Southern Rift Valley

Secluded, sumptuous and serene, Lentorre Lodge is ideal for that breakaway far from the madding crowd. Situated on the Nguruman Escarpment in the remote Southern Rift Valley, Lentorre is the only lodge on the  Olkiramatian Conservancy .  

A natural spring behind the lodge ensures a constant supply of pristine water. It also sustains a historic grove of tamarind trees where elephants still come to feast on the ripe fruit.

With exclusive access to the Olkiramatian Conservancy, guests enjoy day and night drives with unrivalled game viewing. Scenic helicopter flights are on offer, as is the opportunity to join in herding livestock with traditional Masai villagers. You can meet some baboons as they go about their daily activities, or float down the Ewaso Ng’iro River on an innertube!

20. Finch Hattons Luxury Tented Camp, Tsavo National Park

Named after Robert Redford’s  Out of Africa  alter ego, aristocratic safari leader  Denys Finch Hatton , Finch Hattons is a top-rated tented camp in Tsavo National Park, Kenya. The Kenya safari camp overlooks a freshwater spring that’s a potent draw-card for animals ensuring incomparable game viewing, including elephant sightings right outside the camp.

The camp has only 17 superbly appointed luxury suites with private viewing decks with heated plunge pools. Facilities include a yoga room, fitness centre, spa, home theatre and children’s entertainment room. Daily game drives, crater climbs, and scenic fights are on offer.

The sumptuous Karen Blixen Lounge simply demands relaxation, as does the library. Then add a lookout tower, a magnificent palm-fringed infinity pool, a cushion- and rug-strewn star-gazing terrace, superlative food and wine… Wow!

Choosing from Kenya’s best safari camps and safari lodges

Kenya is a land of stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. From the grassy plains of the Serengeti to the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya , there is something for everyone. And of course, Kenya is home to some of the best safari parks in Africa, where visitors can see lions, elephants, and other iconic animals in their natural habitat.

Reach out to our expert team today to plan your Kenyan safari experience at one of Kenya’s best accommodations.

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Recent reviews from travellers who planned and booked their africa trips with discover africa safaris, excellent service awesome safari experience with discover africa and susan swanepoel.

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Excellent service from recommendations and choices of places to booking by antoinette.

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