Masai Mara

One of Africa’s most significant wildlife conservation and wilderness areas, the Masai Mara makes up the northernmost part of the spectacular Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. It is famous for the Great Wildebeest Migration and its exceptionally abundant wildlife, including lion, leopard, giraffe, zebra, rhino, cheetah, crocodile, hippo and African bush elephant and much more.

Enjoy a bird’s eye view from a hot air balloon flight over Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve, explore the wild landscapes on a thrilling horse-riding safari, or spot game from a traditional safari vehicle to get up close to the incredible wildlife. Home of the quintessential African sunset featuring the iconic silhouetted acacia dotting endless stretches of savannah, Kenya’s Masai Mara offers up the best of Africa.

Discover Tsavo National Park

Located in southwestern Kenya, Tsavo National Park is the country’s largest park and one of the world’s largest wildlife sanctuaries. It is split in two: Tsavo East and Tsavo West. Famed for its enthralling landscapes and large herds of elephants and buffalo, visitors can look forward to exploring pristine landscapes offering spectacular photographic opportunities.

The Tsavo East National Park is characterised by open plains scattered with baobabs, grasslands, acacia scrub and lush woodlands. Catch a glimpse of the red elephants of Tsavo – owing to the unique colour of the earth, and soak up the beauty of one of Africa’s last remaining

wilderness areas.

Tsavo West’s breathtakingly beautiful landscapes boast mountains, rivers, lakes, natural springs, swamps, and wooded grasslands. Don’t miss the other-worldly Shetani Lava Flows, the spectacular Chaimu Crater, the amazing Mzima Springs and the opportunity to see the highly endangered black rhino.

Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park, which is roughly 240 kilometres (150 miles) southeast of Nairobi, is widely known for its herds of large tusked elephants. Amboseli is a beautiful park in itself, but it is most known for two things in particular: magnificent elephant herds and views of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, over the border. After the Masai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli is the second most visited national park in Kenya. It was designated a UNESCO-Mab Biosphere Reserve in 1991. The park’s central basin floods with heavy rains, drawing swarms of species. The reserve is a great location to see the Big Five as well as uncommon and less well-known wildlife species.

Crowned by the majestic snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro in southern Kenya, the sensational Amboseli National Park fringes the Tanzanian border. Nature lovers will delight in the sheer variety and volume of wildlife scattered across the open plains, acacia woodland, and wetlands.

Famed for its large herds of big-tusked elephants, Amboseli is considered to be the best destination in the world to experience free-roaming elephants up close. Travellers can view the immense beauty and sweeping panoramic views of the rolling plains and the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro from Observation Hill.

Visitors can look forward to spotting the Big Five in this UNESCO-Mab Biosphere Reserve, as well as a plethora of other wildlife such as buffalo, hippo, giraffe, elephant, lion and cheetah and a variety of birdlife. Visit a Maasai village to experience authentic culture and traditions, spend some time tracking wildlife with expert local rangers, and encounter the vast herds of plains game.

Laikipia

The Laikipia Plateau sprawls along the Northern Kenyan Frontier, extending from Mount Kenya’s slopes to the Great Rift Valley’s rim. Over time, conservationists have worked to establish a location where communities and animals may coexist in order to sustain and safeguard biodiversity in the area. This natural sanctuary is made up of ranches and conservancies.

There are few other vehicles to be seen as game drives encounter animals, including endangered species like the black rhino, Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and wild dogs. The vast open grasslands in the shadow of the snow-capped silhouette of Mount Kenya make a calm and secluded scene.

The Great Rift Valley

Another popular tourist destination in Kenya is the Great Rift Valley, which has stunning lakes and escarpments that serve as havens for a variety of species. The area is a birdwatcher’s haven since many species are drawn to its dazzling lake shoreline, most notably large flocks of flamingos that wade contentedly close to hippos and other game animals.

The most well-known of these extraordinary bodies of water are Lake Naivasha, the highest lake in the Rift Valley, Lake Nakuru, famous for its pelican colony, and Lake Elementaita. Visitors to the area can expect to see spectacular leopard, white rhino, Rothschild’s giraffe, and plains game sightings.

Mount Kenya

Rising 5,199 meters above sea level, majestic Mount Kenya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers hikers a challenging yet rewarding experience. Hike through lush montane forests, alpine meadows, and otherworldly Afro-alpine moorlands, all set against the backdrop of jagged peaks and glistening glaciers. Mount Kenya is not only a haven for hikers, but also a vital water catchment area and home to unique wildlife, such as the elusive bongo antelope.

Lamu Island

Uncover the enchanting beauty of Lamu Island, a serene island haven nestled off Kenya’s northern coast. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to idyllic beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with Swahili architecture. Lamu Old Town, the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in Kenya, exudes an air of timeless charm with its intricately carved wooden doors and bustling old-world markets. Navigate the island’s crystal-clear waters aboard traditional dhow boats, savor tantalizing local cuisine, and meet the warm, hospitable Swahili people.

Best times to visit

The best times to visit Kenya for a safari holiday generally fall within the country’s dry seasons, which offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. However, the specific timing may depend on the attractions and experiences you’re interested in.

Dry season (June to October): This period is considered the best time for wildlife viewing in Kenya, as animals tend to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. The Great Wildebeest Migration, one of Kenya’s most famous attractions, typically occurs between July and October, with the herds crossing the Mara River between late August and early September. The dry season also has minimal rainfall, which translates to fewer mosquitoes and a lower risk of malaria. However, this is the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowded lodges.

Shoulder seasons (January and February): These months offer a short dry spell between the two rainy seasons. The weather is generally warm and dry, and it’s a great time for birdwatching, as many migratory species can be found in Kenya during this time. Wildlife sightings may not be as predictable as during the main dry season, but you can still have excellent game viewing experiences with fewer tourists around.

Rainy seasons (March to May and November to December): While not considered the optimal time for a safari due to unpredictable weather and potential travel disruptions, the rainy seasons can still offer rewarding experiences. The landscapes are lush and green, with many animals giving birth, resulting in increased predator activity. Additionally, there are fewer tourists, and lodges may offer lower rates. However, some camps and lodges may be closed during the heavy rains in April and May.