Safaris in Kenya

Crowned by Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak, the Amboseli National Park is wonderful. Its name comes from a Maasai word meaning "salty dust", and it is one of the best places in Africa to view large herds of elephants up close. Explore five different habitats here ranging from the dried-up bed of Lake Amboseli, wetlands with sulphur springs, the savannah and woodlands. A visit to the local Maasai community is also a rewarding opportunity to experience their authentic culture.

The Greater Masai Mara surrounds the renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve in southwestern Kenya. Alongside the main reserve, private and community conservancies such as Mara North Conservancy and Naboisho Conservancy offer lower vehicle density and exclusive wildlife viewing, with excellent sightings of big cats and diverse plains game. Camps and lodges range from intimate tented camps to luxury safari lodges, many eco-friendly and community-supported, providing close-up wildlife encounters and an authentic bush experience.

Kenya’s coastline offers a beautiful complement to a safari, with warm Indian Ocean waters, white-sand beaches and a rich Swahili culture. From the historic, atmospheric streets of Lamu Island to the coral reefs and marine life of Watamu, and the palm-fringed beaches of Diani, each destination has its own character. Whether you are looking for barefoot relaxation, water-based adventures, diving and snorkelling, or a taste of coastal Kenya’s laid-back way of life, the coast is the perfect way to finish a safari.

To the north-east of the Great Rift Valley, and north-west of snow-capped Mount Kenya, the high plains of Laikipia are undoubtedly one of Kenya's best safari regions. Formerly an area of huge privately-owned farms, and still an important livestock district, it is now at the forefront of conservation with a focus on wildlife protection and local community support. Sightings are plentiful with an abundance of animals including rhino, wild dogs and the famous "black leopards".

The Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is located in northern Kenya. It was formed in 1995 and is a wildlife sanctuary which together with the adjacent Ngare Ndare Forest covers over 62,000 acres. It serves as a safe refuge for the critically endangered black rhino and the endangered Grevy’s zebra, as well as the elephant, lion, giraffe, wild dog and other iconic wildlife species in Kenya. The Conservancy is also home to more than 490 species of birds.

The Masai Mara features a stunning kaleidoscope of wild and rugged landscapes, warm and welcoming people and an exciting array of creatures – big and small. It is renowned for its Big 5 safaris, featuring lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo. This reserve provides unparalleled opportunities to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The Mara is synonymous with the Great Wildebeest Migration and as it's so incredible, it can be pretty busy.

Samburu National Reserve is situated at the southeastern corner of the Rift Valley. It is bordered by Ewaso Nyiro River, which separates it from the Buffalo Springs National Reserve. Covering Untouched wilderness, great wildlife densities and a remote location makes it perfect for a secluded safari experience. This craggy, rugged region tells an inspiring story of community and wildlife conservation and makes for a brilliant off the beaten track adventure.

Tsavo East National Park is a national park in Kenya with an area of 13,747 km². It was established in April 1948 and covers a semi-arid area previously known as the Taru Desert. Together with the Tsavo West National Park, it forms an area of about 22,000 square kms. It is particularly well known for its large herds of elephants and captivating landscapes. Tsavo is one of the less populated game areas in Kenya and is perfect for those who want to enjoy a pristine wildlife experience.