Kenya is an East African country renowned for its vast wildlife reserves, panoramic geography, and rich Swahili heritage. Teeming with thousands of animal species, including the Big Five, Kenya sparkles in the limelight of popular Safari holiday destinations.
Majestic lions, mighty elephants, racing cheetahs, and grazing zebras are just some of the magnificent creatures that roam Kenya’s landscapes. Take a guided tour through grasslands and spot wildebeest migration, hear the serenade of tropical bird songs in Acacia forests, or traverse the savannah to see the endangered Black Rhino. With such a flourishing wildlife population, Kenya ranks as one of the most biodiverse countries in the world.
If you’re planning a trip to Kenya and want to visit the best wildlife hotspots, be sure to add these five breathtaking locations to your itinerary.
Kora National Park
Situated in Kenya’s Coast Province, Kora National Park spans almost 2000 square kilometres and covers diverse terrains of savannah, palm woodlands, and domed Isberg hills. The park is home to both common and rare species, including elephants, lions, leopards, and giraffes.
There are many activities to enjoy in this exquisite conservation area. Take a journey for the senses with an exhilarating game drive, filled with the sounds of roaring lions and the sight of elegant gazelles. If you want to roam the park on foot, lace up your hiking boots and enjoy a guided nature walk through blossoming vegetation.
Home to over 300 species of birds, Kora National Park is brilliant for catching sight of colourful airborne jewels. Spot yellow-tailed hornbills, orange-bellied parrots, and violet wood hoopoes as you traverse this diverse region.
It is recommended to visit the park during the dry season, between June and September, as the bush thins out offering visitors a clearer view of its abundant wildlife.
Samburu
The National Samburu Reserve is a popular safari destination in East Africa. Whilst Samburu is certainly smaller than Kora, this flourishing park is still a brilliant location for wildlife spotting. Almost 900 elephants make the Samburu reserve their home, as well as unique species like Grevy’s zebra and the Somali ostrich.
Discover the varied ecosystems that thrive in this reserve with safaris, available both in the morning and evening. Touring around in the early or late hours offers opportunities for spotting nocturnal species, such as the bat-eared fox. If you’re craving the chance of sighting rare creatures like the African wild dog, then Samburu should be on your list.
Visit the Ewaso Nyiro River to see the glorious drinking spots of hippos, cheetahs, and elephants. Flowing 700 kilometres through Kenya, the river cascades into vast swamp wetlands. Take a guided tour to learn about the sustainability efforts aiming to protect this vital water supply, supporting both local livelihoods and the survival of many animal species.
Maasai Mara
The best Wildlife viewing opportunities in Kenya cannot be discussed without mentioning the grand Maasai Mara National Reserve. Situated in southwest Kenya, this expansive preserve covers 1500 square kilometres of flatland plains with captivating scenery and thriving flora and fauna.
If you’re searching for breathtaking Kenya safari tours, then opting for excursions to Maasai Mara should be at the top of your list. Following classic trails that extend throughout the park, you can spot the Big Five roaming through grasslands and savannahs and hear the thunderous wildebeest migration. Offering some of the best game viewing opportunities in the world, the Maasai Mara reserve will not disappoint.
During your visit to the reserve, engage with the vibrant Maasai culture and traditions by visiting the tribal Village. Known for their harmonious music, distinctive dance, and colourful robes, the Maasai people are a nomadic Kenyan tribe who reside around the reserve. Immerse yourself in the tribe’s unique culture for an authentic and enriching experience.
Meru Game Reserve
Established in 1966, Meru is one of the oldest National Parks in Kenya. Part of an expansive conservation area, Meru takes the crown as one of the most well-preserved national parks in Kenya. With rich volcanic soils, flowing rivers, and swampy grasslands, the reserve is teeming with unique wildlife to admire on a safari holiday.
Boasting large distances from human influence, the unspoiled wilderness experience on offer in Meru is immeasurable. Spot endangered species like the black rhinoceros and African elephant peacefully meander through the savannah, or venture to swampy waters to catch a glimpse of snapping crocodiles.
With over 300 bird species, the skies above Meru National Park are a kaleidoscope of colour and music. From the critically endangered hooded vulture to the impressively decorated grey crowned crane, Meru is brimming with fascinating feathered creatures.
Lake Nakuru
Resting on the bed of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Nakuru National Park is a hub of ecological diversity. A sanctuary for many plant and animal species, Nakuru is most famous for its huge colonies of flamingos. Alongside classic safari tours, there are many other activities to be enjoyed in Nakuru Park for an unforgettable Kenyan getaway.
Lake Nakuru is alive with diverse animal species, including black rhinos, giraffes, cape buffalos, and olive baboons. The park’s most prolific fauna is the flamingo, so consider the best visiting season to witness the flurry of these iconic pink creatures. June to September is recommended for optimal viewing experiences, as the water level decreases in the dry season which leaves high concentrations of algae – the flamingo’s main food source.
There are many hiking trails to explore here, great for wildlife spotting. Hike to Baboon Cliff to experience the panoramic views of the park’s woodlands, also home to hundreds of species of birds. Venture to the Makalia Waterfall or Soda Lake to see marine life thrive.
Summary
Kenya is an exquisite country that is home to some of the world’s most exotic and fascinating creatures. From the elegant, grazing giraffes and peaceful fluttering songbirds to the storming wildebeests and lightning cheetahs, the sights and sounds of Kenyan wildlife will leave you speechless.
So, when you’re considering which national park to visit in this East African treasure, the unique delights that await in each destination mean you truly can’t go wrong. Enjoy exploring the natural wonders of this remarkable country and safe safari-ing!
