National Parks & Game Reserves

National Parks

Maasai Mara National Reserve, located in southwestern Kenya near the Tanzanian border, is renowned for the Great Migration of wildebeests and zebras. It’s a year-round wildlife haven with the Big Five and offers unique experiences such as the Mara River crossing during the migration. Amboseli National Park, situated at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro in the south, is famous for its elephant herds and offers opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, leopards, giraffes, and over 400 bird species. The park’s iconic view of elephants against the backdrop of Kilimanjaro is a must-see.

Tsavo National Park, divided into East and West sections in southeastern Kenya, is the country’s largest national park. Both areas are known for diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and unique features like the Yatta Plateau in West Tsavo and the Lugard Falls in East Tsavo. Nairobi National Park, located just 7 kilometers from Nairobi’s city center, is a unique gem where you can see wildlife against the backdrop of city skyscrapers. It’s home to lions, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and diverse bird species. Lake Nakuru National Park surrounds the picturesque Lake Nakuru in the Great Rift Valley. It’s famous for its flamingo populations, and you can also spot black and white rhinos, lions, leopards, and various waterfowl species.

Meru National Park, situated in eastern Kenya, offers diverse wildlife experiences, including cheetahs, leopards, lions, elephants, and more. Elsa’s Kopje, a unique lodge, offers exceptional accommodations named after Elsa the lioness from “Born Free.” Aberdare National Park, located in the central highlands of Kenya, is known for forest-dwelling species like bongos and leopards. It also hosts elephants, buffalos, and other wildlife. The park features waterfalls, bamboo forests, and a treetop lodge for up-close wildlife encounters.

Game Reserves

Samburu National Reserve, in Kenya’s northern region along the Ewaso Ng’iro River, is home to unique species like Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe, along with lions, leopards, elephants, and various bird species. Visitors can also experience the rich culture of the Samburu people. Adjacent to Samburu, Buffalo Springs National Reserve shares similar wildlife and landscape features, including elephants, lions, and birdlife.

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, located in central Kenya, is a private conservancy known for its conservation efforts. It’s home to rhinos, Grevy’s zebras, and numerous other species, including the “big five.” Lewa is a pioneer in rhino conservation and offers opportunities to witness conservation in action. Ol Pejeta Conservancy, situated in central Kenya, is known for its rhino conservation program and offers sightings of the “big five,” including black and white rhinos, lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo. The Laikipia Plateau comprises several private conservancies and ranches in northern Kenya. This region offers diverse wildlife experiences, including rare and endangered species like African wild dogs and reticulated giraffes.