Step into Kenya, a land filled with picturesque landscapes, and extraordinary wildlife. Visiting this country opens the door to wonderful Kenya jungle safaris, boasting unparalleled flora and fauna. The most popular is the Big Five Kenya safari which allows you to see the iconic animals.
There are many beautiful national parks and reserves where you can enjoy safaris and spot animals in their natural habitats. Some of them are below:
Masai Mara National Park
Known for housing the indigenous Maasai tribe, Masai Mara is one of the most stunning national parks in the entire world. The big five are frequently spotted in the Masai along with several animal species. It is in Masai that the annual Great Migration takes place. Every year, herds of wildebeest along with other plain animals travel from Tanzania’s Serengeti into the Mara. This journey is filled with dramatic events such as predator-prey action and deadly river crossings, also seen during safaris. The Mara Triangle, a rich wildlife area of the park is the best region to enjoy adventurous safaris.
Amboseli National Park
Known for its huge elephant herd, Amboseli is considered to be an extremely photogenic national park in Kenya. Its backdrop displays the tallest African peak, the snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro. Along with lions, elephants, buffalos, and leopards, numerous species of other animals are frequently spotted in Amboseli. Besides exciting game drives, visitors can enjoy excursions to the Observation Hill in the park. The hill offers panoramic views of the park along with the animals living in it.
Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake Nakuru, an alkaline lake situated in Central Kenya, is also an incredible national park. This Rift Valley Lake supports impressive wildlife and birdlife. It is famed for its tree-climbing lions that are mostly seen only in Tanzania’s Lake Manyara National Park. Rare species like the Rothschild Giraffe and rhinos are well-protected in the park. The park is known for more than 400 diverse bird species. The main highlight is its flamingo population. Both lesser and greater flamingoes feed on the lake’s algae which in turn attracts millions of them at the same time. These flamingoes cover the lake like a pink blanket, showcasing a beautiful sight. Boat safaris are best enjoyed in this park as not only do you get to see various animals on the shore together but a wide range of avifauna as well.
Samburu National Park
On the banks of Ewaso Ngiro lies the Samburu National Park, a semi-arid region with unique wildlife. In its riverine forests, savannahs, and palm groves, one can witness an array of flora and fauna. The park is famous for its ‘Samburu Special Five.’ Just like the Big Five, the Samburu Special Five are animal species popularly found in the Samburu National Park. This group consists of the reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, Grevy zebra, beisa Oryx, and the gerenuk. Many other animals including predators like lions, leopards, and infrequent wild dogs are also witnessed during safaris. Although Samburu welcomes fewer visitors in comparison to other parks, it still offers exciting and relatively quieter game drives.
Tsavo National Park
The Tsavo National Park is made up of Tsavo East and Tsavo West. Combined together, it creates a vast sanctuary home to exotic wildlife and expansive sceneries. Tsavo East is mainly known for its semi-arid landscapes including savannahs, grasslands, dry plains, and the Galala River. On the other hand, Tsavo West has mountains and swamps, with wildlife scattered accordingly. Safaris here typically feature the Big Five and other animals as well. For an off-beaten path, Tsavo is the best safari park, away from the tourist crowd. Moreover, this huge park offers a lot of potential to explore its boundless regions.
Nairobi National Park
Found in the capital city of Nairobi, the Nairobi National Park is quite unique. It is the world’s first national park to be found in a city. Instead of traveling long distances, safari-goers can land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and kickstart their adventures at Nairobi National Park. Instead of the usual mountains and hills, this park flaunts skyscrapers and buildings as its backdrop. Despite its location, the park houses around hundreds of mammal species including lions, elephants, leopards, wildebeest, cheetahs, and many more. Offering several activities to enjoy, visitors can indulge in authentic African safaris at the Nairobi National Park.
Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park and reserve
Kenya is surrounded by a beautiful coastline which overlooks the Indian Ocean. Although it has many parks in the heart of the wild, Kenya also protects its aquatic species as well. Among many such parks is the Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park and Reserve, aimed at conserving the scenic islands, and endemic marine animals of the region. It has over 250 species of fish, 70 dolphins, sea turtles, whales, and much more. After your bush adventures, head to Kisite to explore the beautiful Kenyan coral reef by swimming, surfing, or snorkeling. You can marvel at whales and dolphins by going on a dhow cruise as well.
Things to know before going on safaris
Here are some things to know before you plan your safari:
Decide what you want to see and do
Safari holidays require a lot of research and planning. You can choose what you would like to see and do and accordingly choose the months to travel. Although Kenya is a year-round destination, you will see something unique every season. The dry season from July to early October is famous for Big Five sightings and the Great Migration. Similarly, November, December, and January are recommended for bird watchers.
Choose accommodation accordingly
Even in the Kenyan wilderness, you can expect world-class hospitality. There is a wide range of accommodation options to choose from according to your budget and preferences. You can pick from rugged yet luxurious tents and camps that stay true to the concept of safaris but provide all the luxuries for a cozy stay. For an authentic stay, mobile camps are always available.
Wear appropriate attire
Donning appropriate attire is essential while going on safaris. Your clothes should be loose fitting and light, keeping you comfortable the whole day. Avoid wearing bright colors and instead opt for neutral shades like beige or khaki. Sturdy boots, hats, and insect repellents are important to carry as well.
A Kenya jungle safari or the Big Five Kenya safari is not a faraway dream. Contact a reputed travel company specializing in African holidays and start planning your adventure today.
