Top Safari Attraction for a Kenya Safari

Nairobi

Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, is not only a vibrant metropolis but also a gateway to exciting Kenya safari tours and holidays. Situated at an altitude of about 6,000 feet, Nairobi, which translates to “place of cool waters” in the Maasai language, offers a plethora of attractions for visitors.

One must-visit attraction is the National Museum, showcasing paleo-anthropological discoveries, botanical drawings, and tribal paintings. For reptile enthusiasts, the Snake Park, with its impressive collection of over 200 species of reptiles, is conveniently located across from the museum.

If you’re interested in shopping for unique souvenirs, head to the Municipal Market on Muindi Mbingu Street, where you can find beautiful curios and even haggle for the best prices. For those seeking some excitement, the Nairobi Race Course hosts thrilling horse racing events on Sunday afternoons during the season.

For a unique dining experience, Nairobi boasts a diverse restaurant scene. Indian food lovers will relish the flavors at Haandi and Haveli, while the Talisman, Osteria del Chinati, and Mediteraneo offer exquisite dining options. Overland travelers often gather at the Thorn Tree Cafe, while the Pavement in Westlands is a popular disco for those looking to dance the night away.

For a heartwarming experience, make sure to visit the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, where sick and abandoned elephants are nurtured back to health before being released into the wild. This incredible conservation effort allows visitors to witness firsthand the dedication to preserving Kenya’s wildlife.

Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park is a 45-square-mile game reserve located just 8 miles south of the Kenyan capital of Nairobi. It is one of the top destinations for Kenya safaris, offering a variety of game including several antelope species, hippopotamus, black rhino, and occasionally, lions and cheetahs. Home to over 100 black rhinos, Nairobi National Park is a must-visit for those seeking an unforgettable wildlife experience in Kenya.

The park serves as a migration corridor to the Athi-Kapiti Plains and Kitengela towards the Amboseli National Reserve, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the diverse landscapes of Kenya. Its open plains with scattered acacia bushes, a small patch of highland forest, and the permanent Athi River lined with yellow-barked fever trees create a stunning backdrop for wildlife enthusiasts.

In addition to the captivating wildlife, Nairobi National Park is a paradise for bird lovers, with a diverse range of bird species including ostriches, secretary birds, and augur buzzards. One of the unique aspects of the park is the ability to witness wild game against the backdrop of the city skyline, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

Whether you visit during the dry or rainy season, Nairobi National Park is open all year-round. However, it is recommended to have a 4×4 vehicle during the rainy season to navigate the park’s terrain.

Aside from the wildlife, visitors can also take the opportunity to visit the David Sheldrick Trust animal orphanage, which provides care for sick, hurt, or stray animals. This is a great way to support conservation efforts and learn more about the incredible work being done to protect Kenya’s wildlife.

Masai Mara National Reserve

Masai Mara National Reserve is the most renowned destination in Kenya for wildlife enthusiasts, and boasts an incredible array of animals, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, gazelles, and so much more.

One of the most awe-inspiring events in the Masai Mara is the Great Migration, occurring from July to October each year. Witness millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle as they traverse the Mara River from Tanzania to Kenya in search of lush pastures. This extraordinary journey is fraught with danger, as these majestic creatures face crocodiles, hippos, and predators along the way.

Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Maasai people, who call the Masai Mara home. Experience their traditional way of life by visiting their villages and gaining insight into their customs and traditions. Enhance your Kenya safari experience by partaking in a bush walk led by a Maasai warrior, who will reveal the secrets of the savanna.

Indulge in a variety of safari activities, such as exhilarating hot air balloon rides, thrilling horseback riding adventures, and captivating birdwatching excursions. The Masai Mara offers an abundance of opportunities to create lifelong memories and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.

Amboseli National Park

Located on the Tanzanian border, 150-square-mile Amboseli National Park offers breathtaking views of the iconic Mt. Kilimanjaro. With an altitude of approximately 3,900 feet, Amboseli is known for its accessible and abundant wildlife, including over 1,000 elephants. The park’s unique position in the rain shadow of the mountain ensures a distinctive ecosystem sustained by freshwater springs, supporting diverse wildlife in the surrounding papyrus beds.

In addition to elephants, Amboseli National Park is home to a variety of captivating animals such as the gerenuk, lesser kudu, and fringe-eared oryx, as well as the typical game species found in East Africa. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted with over 400 recorded species, including the vibrant rosypatched bushshrikes and Taveta golden weavers. Immerse yourself in nature as you spot various bushbirds residing within the park.

For an unforgettable experience, head to the Enkongo Narok Swamp, where large herds of buffalo and elephants gather, with the magnificent Mt. Kilimanjaro serving as a stunning backdrop. The best time for game viewing is from mid-December to March and July to October. Remember to respect the environment by staying on designated roads, as driving off-road is strictly prohibited and subject to heavy fines.

Conveniently located approximately 140 miles from Nairobi, Amboseli National Park is easily accessible for visitors. Consider staying at the Amboseli Serena Lodge, situated on the foothills of Mt. Kilimanjaro, for a remarkable accommodation option during your visit.

Tsavo National Park

Tsavo National Park comprises of Tsavo West National Park, Tsavo East National Park, and Chyulu Hills National Park. This expansive conservation area spans over 8,217 square miles. With its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, Tsavo National Park offers an unforgettable safari experience.

One of the highlights of our Kenya safari packages to Tsavo National Park is its large elephant population, which exceeds 15,000. In addition to elephants, visitors can also spot prides of lions, leopards, rhinos, caracals, and various antelope species. The park’s vegetation is dominated by Acacia and Commiphora woodland, with towering trees lining the rivers and majestic baobab trees providing a habitat for a wide range of bird species.

The rugged terrain and occasional granite outcrops create a dramatic backdrop to the semi-arid plains of Tsavo National Park. The Ngulia Mountains, with altitudes ranging from 1,000 to 6,000 feet, offer breathtaking views and opportunities for exploration. For a unique wildlife viewing experience, visitors can head to Mzima Springs and observe hippos and otters from the underwater viewing platform. Poachers Lookout is another must-visit spot, offering panoramic vistas of the rolling plains.

The southern sector of Tsavo National Park is characterized by more open plains, and it is here that Lake Jipe can be found. This picturesque lake serves as a sanctuary for numerous water bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Mombasa

Mombasa, the second largest city in Kenya, is the perfect resort destination for Kenya safari and beach holidays. Situated on an island about 307 miles (495 km) from Nairobi, Mombasa offers a unique cultural blend of the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Its Old Harbour serves as a hub for trade between Arabia, the Indian subcontinent, and Africa.

While Mombasa itself doesn’t have beaches, visitors can enjoy the stunning white sand beaches located to the south or north of the island. Nyali Beach, Mombasa Beach, Kenyatta Beach, and Shanzu Beach are popular choices to the north, while Diani Beach, located about 20 miles (32 km) to the south, offers a picturesque coastal experience.

In addition to its beautiful beaches, Mombasa is renowned for its Swahili food. The city boasts excellent restaurants such as the Tamarind Restaurant and Aquamarine Restaurant at Mtwapa Creek, known for their delicious seafood offerings.

Exploring the Old Town is a must-do in Mombasa. The area, with its narrow streets and alleys, showcases a captivating mix of Muslim and Indian influences. Visitors can wander through the tall, nineteenth-century buildings adorned with hand-carved doors and overhanging balconies. The Old Town is also home to Fort Jesus, a historic Portuguese fort built in 1593, which now serves as a museum.

For those seeking nearby Kenya wildlife safaris, a visit to Shimba Hills National Park, located south of Mombasa, is highly recommended. This 74-square-mile (192-km2) reserve offers rolling hills, forests, and breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot elephants, buffalos, genets, civets, servals, leopards, and roan antelopes. Sheldrick Falls is a popular attraction within the park. Bird lovers will be delighted by the 350 species of birds, including the Fischer’s turaco, Narina trogon, red-tailed ant-thrush, East-coast akalat, African Fish eagle, and the Palmnut vulture.

For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, visitors can explore Kisite Mpunguti Marine Reserve near the fishing village of Shimoni. This reserve is known for its exceptional marlin fishing opportunities. Boat excursions to Wasini Island, an ancient Arab settlement across from Shimoni, as well as snorkeling excursions, are available for those looking to immerse themselves in the marine wonders of the region.

Heading north of Mombasa, the Malindi-Watamu Marine National Reserve is a must-visit for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Stretching from Malindi to Watamu, this reserve offers excellent opportunities to explore the underwater world. Malindi, located 75 miles (120 km) north of Mombasa, is a vibrant town with beach hotels, nightclubs, shops, and the Vasco Da Gama pillar, which symbolizes the explorer’s visit before his journey to India. The Sokoke Arabuko Forest, Africa’s northernmost brachystegia forest and Kenya’s last remaining extensive lowland forest, is also worth exploring in this area.

Lake Naivasha

Situated just 55 miles (89 km) northwest of Nairobi, Lake Naivasha is a Rift Valley lake that offers a range of attractions that are sure to captivate visitors.

With its fringing papyrus beds, secluded lagoons, and picturesque Crescent Island, Lake Naivasha provides a picturesque backdrop for your Kenya safari adventure. It is a popular spot for picnics and water sports among Nairobi residents, and it is also a paradise for birdwatchers. Keep your eyes peeled for African fish eagles, waterfowl, plovers, sandpipers, avocets, terns, kingfishers, storks, and ibis, as they are abundant in this area.

Unlike other lakes in the region, Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake with a suspected underground outlet. As a result, it is not as attractive to flamingos, which prefer soda lakes. However, there are numerous other wildlife encounters to be had here. Embark on a boat ride to Crescent Island, where you can explore this game-and-bird sanctuary on foot. This sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including zebra, giraffe, waterbuck, several antelope species, and even a few camels. These highlights make Lake Naivasha a perfect addition to your safari trip in Kenya.

Hell’s Gate National Park

Hell’s Gate National Park should be a must-visit destination for those seeking adventurous Kenya safaris packages. Spanning an area of approximately 68 square kilometers, this park offers an exciting experience to visitors with opportunities to walk, run, or cycle alongside magnificent wildlife like zebras and gazelles.

One of the park’s notable attractions is the Fishes Tower, a towering volcanic plug that reaches an impressive height of 25 meters. This natural formation is a popular spot for both seasoned rock climbers and beginners, adding an adrenaline-pumping element to your Kenya adventure safaris.

However, the true highlight of Hell’s Gate National Park lies in its mesmerizing Ol Karia Gorge. This deep ravine stretches for about 24 kilometers and is adorned with short cliffs and hot water springs. These springs feed a meandering stream that flows through the gorge’s floor, creating a picturesque setting that will captivate hikers exploring the park during their Kenya Safari holiday.

The park’s stunning scenery has even caught the attention of Hollywood, with its landscapes serving as an inspiration for movies like King Solomon’s Mines and Tomb Raider.

Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park is home to the famous Lake Nakuru, which attracts hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of greater and lesser flamingos, creating a breathtaking bird spectacle. With over 400 recorded bird species, Lake Nakuru is a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

Situated just 100 miles (160 km) northwest of Nairobi, Lake Nakuru National Park covers an impressive 73-square-miles (188-km2). The park’s main feature is the alkaline lake itself, offering a unique and picturesque landscape.

In addition to its avian wonders, Lake Nakuru National Park is also a sanctuary for black rhinos, making it a prime location to witness these endangered animals up close during your Kenya safari tour. The park has successfully reintroduced a small population of white rhinos from South Africa as well.

While exploring Lake Nakuru National Park on your Kenya safari holiday, keep an eye out for other captivating wildlife, including lions, leopards, Rothschild’s giraffes (introduced), waterbucks, reedbucks, hippos, baboons, pelicans, and cormorants. This diverse range of animals ensures that every visitor can enjoy unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Moreover, Lake Nakuru serves as a crucial stopover for thousands of migratory wading birds, which travel to and from Europe each year. This makes the park an essential destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Aberdare National Park

Formerly known as Nyandarua, Aberdare National Park stretches across 296 square miles along the majestic Aberdare (Nyandarua) mountain range. Divided into two sections based on altitude, Aberdare National Park offers a diverse range of landscapes and wildlife.

The high plateau, nestled between Ol Doinyo Lasatima and Kinangop, provides awe-inspiring views of Mount Kenya and the Rift Valley. Here, you can encounter magnificent creatures like black rhinos, lions, hyenas, and buffalos in their natural habitat. The Salient region, located on the eastern slopes below, is characterized by forested hills and valleys. This area is home to a variety of wildlife, including black rhinos, leopards, elephants, buffalos, waterbucks, bushbucks, giant forest hogs, and black-and-white colobus monkeys.

Aberdare National Park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, boasting a diverse birdlife. Keep an eye out for rare species like Jackson’s and Moorland francolins, Aberdare cisticola, and Cape eagle owl. The mountains also host a vibrant population of dazzling sunbirds.

While exploring Aberdare National Park, be prepared for chilly nights as temperatures can drop to freezing point. It is recommended to travel in a 4WD vehicle to navigate the terrain with ease. The Ark and Treetops camps, located approximately 110 miles from Nairobi, provide comfortable accommodations for your unforgettable safari experience.

Shaba National Reserve

Situated east of Samburu National Reserve, just 2 miles (3 km) south of Archer’s Post, Shaba National Reserve offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Covering an area of 92 square miles (239 km2), Shaba National Reserve is characterized by its rocky hills and scattered thornbush. The stunning Ewaso Nyiro River forms the reserve’s northwestern border and flows through its western part. The presence of volcanic rock in many areas adds to the reserve’s distinct charm.

One of the notable features of Shaba National Reserve is Mt. Shaba, a towering volcanic cone standing at 5,320 feet (1,622 m) high. This majestic mountain, after which the park was named, lies to the south of the reserve, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your safari adventure.

Shaba National Reserve gained recognition for hosting the renowned 2001 “Survivor” television series and for being the filming location of George Adamson’s film, “Walking with Lions.” The reserve’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife make it an ideal setting for such productions.

While wildlife in Shaba National Reserve may be slightly less abundant compared to Samburu and Buffalo Springs National Reserves, it offers a more intimate and peaceful experience. Although you may not be able to approach the animals as closely, the reserve’s lower visitor traffic ensures a more exclusive encounter with Kenya’s incredible wildlife.

Mount Kenya

For Adventure seekers, Kenya safari packages to Mount Kenya offer an unforgettable experience, Mount Kenya is the highest peak in Kenya and the second highest in Africa. Despite its tropical location, this majestic mountain boasts permanent glaciers, making it a unique and captivating destination for nature enthusiasts.

Mount Kenya offers two main peaks, Batian and Nelion, both accessible through various routes. However, it’s important to note that only experienced rock climbers should attempt these challenging routes. For hikers in good condition, Point Lenana provides a non-technical climb option, perfect for those seeking a thrilling yet manageable adventure. The best time to conquer this peak is during the dry seasons, from January to February and from July to October.

As you ascend the mountain, you’ll witness a remarkable change in vegetation, reminiscent of the Ruwenzori Mountains and Mount Kilimanjaro. The climbing routes vary depending on the side of the mountain, providing diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for a variety of wildlife, including buffalo, elephant, leopard, duiker, bushbuck, giant forest hog, Syke’s monkey, and colobus monkey.

It’s essential to be mindful of the high altitude and potential risks such as pulmonary edema. However, with proper preparation and guidance, you can conquer Mount Kenya and marvel at its breathtaking views.

For those looking to explore Kenya tours to Mount Kenya, the Naro Moru Route is the most commonly used route, offering a well-established path to the summit. Additionally, don’t miss the chance to visit Two Tarn Lake, one of the many lakes on the mountain, which holds the world’s highest altitude scuba diving record.

Laikipia

Discover the untamed beauty of Laikipia, the gateway to Kenya’s Northern frontier. Nestled north of the Aberdares and northwest of Mt. Kenya, this wild and sparsely populated region offers an unforgettable safari experience. With its vast landscapes ranging from high plains to low forested valleys, Laikipia is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

What sets Laikipia apart is its large, privately owned ranches that span the region. Here, cattle coexist harmoniously with free-ranging wildlife, creating a unique and diverse ecosystem. These ranches are not only dedicated to conservation but also offer exceptional Kenya safari holidays.

For a truly immersive experience, consider visiting the community ranches in Laikipia. These sanctuaries were established by local communities, who have united small farms and grazing land into large group ranches. By supporting these initiatives, you not only contribute to conservation efforts but also get an opportunity to learn about traditional cultures.

Escape the usual tourist routes and venture into the heart of Laikipia by staying at one of these private ranches including Ol Pejeta Conservancy or Lewa Conservancy. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes, encounter magnificent wildlife, and witness the conservation programs in action. Laikipia promises an authentic and off-the-beaten-path adventure for all who seek a Kenya safari like no other.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a renowned 110,000-acre (44,000-hectare) private game reserve in Kenya, ideal for unforgettable Kenya safari tours. This expansive reserve features a diverse range of wildlife, including black rhino, reticulated giraffe, buffalo, Grevy’s zebra, oryx, Coke’s hartebeest, and Thomson’s gazelle. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as guided walks, day and night game drives, boat rides, and even camel rides. Additionally, Ol Pejeta Conservancy is home to a chimpanzee sanctuary and rehabilitation center. During the rainy season, it may be necessary to use a 4wd vehicle to access the camp from the main road.

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

Situated between Mt. Kenya and Samburu National Reserve, the breathtaking Lewa Wildlife Conservancy covers 45,000 acres (18,000 hectares) of private land. This scenic conservancy is an ideal destination for Kenya safari tours and Kenya safari holidays. Its semi-arid environment supports a rich variety of wildlife, including a significant population of black and white rhinos, making Lewa a renowned rhino sanctuary. Other notable wildlife species found here include elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, reticulated giraffes, Grevy’s zebras, buffalos, hartebeests, bushbucks, gerenuks, Gunther’s dikdiks, and Somali ostriches. Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is also one of the few places in Kenya where visitors may catch a glimpse of the rare semi-aquatic sitatunga antelope. Visitors to Lewa can partake in a range of activities such as horseback riding, hiking, camel riding, day and night game drives in open 4wd vehicles, and even enjoy a cultural visit to the nearby Il N’gwesi Maasai tribal community.