Kenya Safaris

Kenya is an ideal safari destination. It borders the Indian Ocean and it has tiny farms, green hills and golden savannahs.

This East African nation began drawing tourists to it over a century ago. Kenyan safaris highlight the country’s landscapes. Kenya has a range of national parks and reserves that are home to the “Big Five” (elephants, lions, leopards, rhinoceroses, and buffalos.) Safaris are one of the best travel experiences in the world. At Malaika Travel, we are ready to give you a perfect Kenyan safari. Our standard safari vehicle is a 4X4 Land Cruiser Jeep that seats six, with long range radios for easy communication and a pop-up top that makes photography easy. Whether you’re after a safari on a budget, an experience that is comfortable yet affordable, or an exclusive, luxurious safari, we can assist you. Our knowledgeable staff combined with our customizable packages creates one of the best safaris in Kenya.

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We are adding new safaris, so please contact us for all available options

Lake Bogoria National Park

Overview

Picture a mountain lake in a volcanic region near the equator covered with an endless swarm of bright, pink flamingoes. Dotting this lake and its surrounding areas are steamy hot springs that enhance the already dreamlike atmosphere. Now, add in the sight of numerous bubbling geysers erupting along the banks and within the lake itself.

That is Lake Bogoria National Reserve – a sight and a place unlike anything else you’re ever likely to see.

But as compelling as the scene before you is, Lake Bogoria is not a heavily visited destination. If you come early in the day, there will be few other visitors- just you and as many as two million flamingoes.

The deep saline and alkaline composition of the lake spurs the growth of blue-green algae which provides food for immense flocks of flamingoes. Raptors like tawny eagles are attracted to this site, preying on the flamingoes. Before you is a complete and dazzling eco-system.

But, flamingoes aren’t the only birdlife living in this rich environment. Even this relatively small reserve supports 135 species of birdlife such as storks, spoonbill buzzards, hornbills, herons, ostriches and the sacred ibises.

Though the lakeshore itself is somewhat barren due to the intense chemical nature of the water, the area supports a surprising amount of wildlife. You can easily spot kudu antelopes along the banks. The acacia woodland towards the southern end hosts buffalos, klipspringers, impalas, zebras, gazelles, warthogs, baboons and even leopards.

Besides the dazzling display of fuchsia pink flamingoes blanketing the lake, the area features over 200 steaming volcanic springs. Most of these lie alongside the lake, but a few are on the lake floor itself.

Up to 10 geysers can be spotted in various locations around and within the lake, rising up to 5m (16ft) high. The park contains more geysers than any other spot in Africa – a total of 18.

Points of interest

  • Flamingo watching

There is a nothing quite like the sight of thousands or sometimes millions of glittering pink flamingos blanketing the shallow lake. The birds will protectively move away when you approach, but once you settle in for a few minutes, they’ll shuffle back, like a great pastel postcard. The best photos are usually captured early or late in the day.

  • Cycling

Taking a bicycle safari around the lake is a great way to appreciate the diversity of land and wildlife here. You’ll find yourself cycling past hot springs and boiling geysers.

  • Boil an egg

Care to try out your cooking skills at the lake? Just outside the reserve, local women sell raw eggs for curious visitors. You can take your egg and submerge it in the hot springs to make your own hard-boiled or soft-boiled egg.

  • Kesubo Swamp

Just outside Lake Bogoria in the north is Kesubo Swamp, a wonderful spot for birdwatching. Over 200 species have been spotted here.

  • Lake Baringo

Just north of Bogoria is Lake Baringo, a freshwater lake that is home to hundreds of bird species. Look out for owls, herons, hornbills, crocodiles and hippos.

Aberdares National Park

Overview

This park is cool and misty. Over a year, there is an average of 1,000 mm of rain on the drier northwestern slopes and up to 3,000 mm in the southwest.

Wildlife & landscape

  • Wildlife in Aberdares National Park

There have been over 290 species of birds recorded in the Aberdare National Park. There are also occasional sightings of the rare giant forest hog and the unique Bongo. The park is home to the Big Fives so visitors will have a chance to spot their favorites, including elephants, buffalos and lions. Plains game such as bushbucks, giraffes and the cute blue duikers can also be seen on a safari in the park.

  • The terrain

The terrain of Aberdare National Park consists of the Aberdare Mountain Range that forms part of the Great Rift Valley, with gentle, sloping hills along the east. Dramatic waterfalls, forested valleys and moorlands make up the picturesque topography of Aberdare National Park.

Safari experiences

  • Game drives

Early morning and late afternoon game drives are conducted in enclosed 4×4 safari vehicles and they usually last for around three hours each time. Qualified guides will show you the beauty and bounty of Aberdare National Park. The drives are conducted at the ideal time for wildlife spotting.

  • Guided walking safaris

Park rangers can guide you through the Aberdare National Park on safari walks.

Points of interest

  • Dragon’s Teeth

Rock climbers can visit Dragon’s Teeth, a jagged rock formation located near Aberdare National Park. It offers spectacular views.

  • 7 Ponds

This is a hiking trail in the Aberdare National Park named after the permanent ponds at the summit of the Aberdare Range

Amboseli National Park

Overview

Amboseli National Park, the second most visited park in Kenya after the Masai Mara, is known for its spectacular herds of elephants and its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, which is the highest mountain in Africa. Large herds of tusked elephants roam the plains in the morning and evening, but you will also see hippos, buffalos, zebras, wildebeests, hyenas and the occasional lion and wild dog.

During the heavy rains, the basin at the center of Amboseli floods, luring wildlife to it and providing a perfect place for eager shutterbugs. Amboseli was declared a UNESCO-Mab Biosphere Reserve in 1991. This helps ensure the conservation of biodiversity within the park and the involvement of the local population.

Wildlife & landscape

  • Wildlife in Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park is famous for its elephants. Massive herds of them dot the landscape wherever you look! The “Big Five” are in Amboseli, and there is a wonderful variety of other animals like kudus, wildebeests, and dik-diks. Cheetahs can be spotted on the plains, while buffalos wallow in mud baths around the savannas.

  • The terrain

Amboseli has a terrain with dusty, open savannahs and seasonal lakes and wooded areas. There also swamps in Amboseli.

Safari experiences

  • Game drives

Game drives are exceptional in Amboseli, and they are done in either open 4×4 vehicles or enclosed 4×4 vehicles that have a pop-up roof for optimal game viewing. Game drives usually happen early in the morning and late in the afternoon. You can go on a hill to get views of the park.

  • Guided walking safaris

Qualified safari guides will take guests around the park on foot, offering them a chance to witness less dangerous game up close, and predators in the distance. You can stand on a hill and take in the amazing views surrounding you. Many of the conservancies around Amboseli National Park will offer walking safaris to guests staying in lodges or camps there.

Points of interest

  • A walk to an observation hill

Visitors can step outside of their game drive vehicle or take a break from their safari walk and stand on this former volcanic landmark to take advantage of the incredible views surrounding them.

  • Visiting a local Maasai village

You can experience life as a local as you embrace the culture and traditions of the local Maasai people. They’ll share their daily life with you, from the foods they prepare to their traditional dances.

  • Bird watching experiences

You can spend time bird watching in Amboseli. There are over 400 species and some of them include flamingos, herons, weavers and horn bills.

  • Mount Kilimanjaro

One of the things you can see at Amboseli National Park is the breathtaking view of the famous Mount Kilimanjaro. While the mountain is located in Tanzania, it is said that one of the best views of Kilimanjaro is the one from Amboseli National Park.

Tsavo East National Park

Overview

Kenya’s largest national park by far, the 4,535 square-mile Tsavo East has flat, dry terrain with huge baobab trees, which is good for spotting the Big Five. All of the safaris in Tsavo East take place south of the Galana River, an area so vast that you’ll often find you and your fellow safari-goers completely alone. The Voi and Galana rivers flow through the park and the Aruba Dam, built across the Voi River, lures many birds to it.

Another interesting feature of the park is the 180-mile long Yatta Plateau, which runs parallel to the Mombasa Highway. The sheer amount of game in this park makes it a top attraction. In addition to the more popular species, you’ll have the opportunity to see rarer animals such as oryxes, lesser kudus, and the klipspringer, a tiny African antelope which hops from rock to rock.

Wildlife & landscape

  • Wildlife in Tsavo East National Park

Tsavo East National Park is famous for its “red elephants”, which are red due to the colour of the soil in the park. Other animals that are often spotted in the park are dik-diks, lesser kudus, gerenuks and porcupines. There have also been over 500 species of birds recorded in Tsavo East National Park.

  • The terrain

The terrain of Tsavo East National Park is mostly flat, with savannahs and grasslands covering the land. You can find acacia trees and some rocky areas scattered around. The Yatta Plateau and the Lugard Falls are key features of the park. The Aruba Dam is a wonderful place to spot an abundance of wildlife.

Safari experiences

  • Game drives

The is the most popular way to see wildlife in the Tsavo East National Park is by either early morning, full day or late afternoon game drives. These can be done in an open vehicle or in an enclosed 4×4 vehicle with large window.

  • Guided walking safaris

There is an option to go on a guided walking safari in the Tsavo East National Park. This will mostly take place along the Galana River, and it will be conducted by a qualified safari guide.

Points of interest

  • Excursions to local villages

You can visit local villages and support local communities by purchasing local products and donating. You can visit Voi Town and interact with the locals during your visit.

  • Visits to Aruba Dam, Lugard Falls or Mubanda Rock

You can enjoy an outing to beautiful sites and locations such as the Aruba Dam, which is situated on the Voi River, or the Lugard Falls. You can also walk up the Mubanda Rock to get outstanding views of Tsavo East.

Tsavo West National Park

Overview

The world famous Tsavo West National Park, along with Tsavo East, combine together to form one of the largest national parks in the world.

Dating back to the Stone Age, Tsavo West National Park once enjoyed a thriving economy through the trade of ivory, cowry shells, animal skins and most likely slaves. In 1898, the construction of the Uganda Railway line took place, an event that led to what may be one of Tsavo West’s most famous tales. It is recorded that 28 men of African and Indian descent were stalked and killed by two maneless male lions, which were listed as the ‘Maneaters of Tsavo’. In 1963, the Kenya Wildlife Services took over the management of the park, which remains one of Kenya’s most remarkable national parks to this day.

Wildlife & landscape

  • Wildlife in the Tsavo East National Park

Home to the “Big Five”, visitors have a fantastic chance of sighting predators such as lions, leopards, buffalos, black rhinos and elephants roaming the plains in search of food and shade. The plains game that are often seen on a safari include giraffes, zebras, gerenuks and the magnificent Kudus to name a few. Birdlife is prevalent in the park, with over 400 species of birds that can be found here. Amongst them the Basra Reed Warbler, which is close to being on the endangered list.

  • The terrain

The diverse landscape of Tsavo West National Park includes vast plains, swamp areas, rocky outcrops and volcanic craters. Its beautiful scenery creates the perfect backdrop for the variety of wildlife that traverses the land. You can witness animals lazing near a riverine or wandering through the acacia woodlands.

Safari experiences

  • Game drives

Game drives in Tsavo West National Park are conducted in 4×4 safari vehicles. They are mostly closed with a pop-up roof. Some more exclusive lodges and camps offer the safari experience in an open 4×4 vehicle. Guests usually head out before the sunrise for a morning game drive and then they head out again in the late afternoon. They often stop to see an African sunset during their safari outing.

  • Guided walking safaris

Bush walks and nature hikes are possible within the Tsavo West National Park, as long as they’re conducted under the guidance of qualified guides. You can hike the hills of Chyulu and take in incredible views, or wander along the river banks and admire your favourite animals in the distance whilst taking in the fascinating flora and fauna around you.

Points of interest

  • Excursions to local villages

You can visit local villages and support local communities by purchasing local products and making donations. You can visit Voi Town and interact with the locals during your visit.

  • Visits to Aruba Dam, Lugard Falls or Mubanda Rock

You can enjoy an outing to beautiful sites and locations such as the Aruba Dam, which is situated on the Voi River or the Lugard Falls. You can walk up the Mubanda Rock to capture outstanding views across Tsavo East.

Samburu National Reserve

Overview

In the far north of the country, near Mount Kenya, you’ll find the remote Samburu National Reserve. Samburu is uncrowded and it offers excellent game-viewing amidst a stunning mix of hilly landscapes, riverine bushes, and semi-desert terrain. Here, you won’t be surrounded by other vehicles as you might in be in other reserves. The animals here are adapted to the drier, rockier conditions of the park.

You might even see the red-robed Samburu tribesmen bringing their cattle to the river to drink. The Samburu live in manyattas (villages) that can be moved as they follow the grazing patterns of their livestock. This is also one of few places in Africa where you might spot a camel plodding along the arid plains.

Wildlife & landscape

  • Wildlife in Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve is known to offer some of the best views of leopards in Kenya and it is home to unique wildlife such as articulated giraffes, somali ostrichs and beisa oryxes. The reserve is home to four of the “Big Five” with the rhino being the only one absent. There are 450+ species of birdlife in Samburu National Reserve, including the endemic vulturine guineafowl and Hunter’s sunbird.

  • The terrain

The vast landscape of the Samburu National Reserve has arid and semi-arid terrain, with the Ewaso Nyiro River running through the reserve. It is a permanent source of water throughout the year. The valleys are dotted with shrubs and acacia trees, and palm trees are scattered along the Ewaso Nyiro Riverbank.

Safari experiences

  • Game drives

Game drives in Samburu National Reserve usually take place early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and they last around three hours. 4×4 game vehicles are either closed and have a pop-up roof or they are open on all sides. There are roof coverings on some open vehicles. Qualified guides will take you through the vast landscape in search of predators and prey. Keep an eye out for the incredible birdlife in the area.

  • Guided walking safaris

Guests of the Samburu National Reserve can enjoy a guided walk through the arid landscape and over rock formations, with captivating views all around. Wandering along the riverbank will bring walkers up close to birdlife as they look for elephants, buffalos, zebras and other animals. Walks usually take place at around sunrise and in the late afternoon, when the temperatures are cooler, and they usually take around two and a half hours. There is an option to stop for a packed breakfast or for brunch.

Points of interest

  • Camel trekking safari

You can experience the beauty of Samburu on a camel trekking safari. You’ll see ostriches, zebras, giraffes and more as you move slowly across the land.

  • Cultural visits

You can visit a Samburu village and learn about the heritage of the Samburu tribe. They are nomadic shepherds that represent the third largest Maa community in East Africa. Visitors will be able to experience a day in the life of the Samburu tribe.

  • Reteti Elephant Sanctuary

You’ll spend time understanding the conservation efforts taking place at Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, which is home to orphaned elephants, with the intention of releasing them back into the wild.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Overview

Ol Pejeta has semi-arid grasslands, woodlands, riverine forests, and wetlands. The conservancy is beside the scenic Ewaso Nyiro River. It is one of the most esteemed wildlife conservancies in East Africa and it has all the Big Five present. It is most famous for having highly trained rhino protection squads and a team of international veterinary experts that keep watch over two of the world’s last remaining northern white rhinos and over 140 critically endangered black rhinos. Here you can also find the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, which houses orphaned and abandoned chimpanzees.

Wildlife & landscape

  • Wildlife in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Ol Pejeta is home to the “Big Five”: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffalos, as well as other animals, such as giraffes, zebras and Jackson’s hartebeests. Guests can visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary and learn about these fascinating animals as well as the efforts being taken to protect them. If you’re going on a night drive, keep an eye out for the “zorilla”, also known as the “African polecat”. If you’re fortunate, you’ll have the chance to see a leopard on the prowl.

  • The terrain

The terrain of the Ol Pejeta Conservancy ranges from savannah to marshlands and thick bushes made up of acacias with yellowy-green fever trees.

Safari experiences

  • Game drives

Early in morning and late in the afternoon are the best times to go on a game drive in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The mornings bring the animals out to explore while the sunset sets the scene for what could be a dramatic predator vs prey showdown. There are also night drives offered in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, which creates an exciting opportunity for guests to see animals such as aardvarks, white-tailed mongooses and bat eared foxes.

  • Guided walking safaris

Qualified guides will take visitors on safari walks through the Ol Pejeta Conservancy along nature trails that wind across the savannah and take people past ravines and rivers. You can capture the views and keep an eye out for the predators and prey roaming nearby.

Points of interest

  • Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary

You can visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary and gain an understanding of the conservation methods that have been put in place to rehabilitate and protect these fascinating animals.

  • Endangered Species Boma

You can spend time in the presence of beautiful and endangered animals such as white and black rhinos and other animals such as the Jackson hartebeest and Grevy’s zebras. You can learn interesting facts about the animals as well as the conservation efforts taking place.

  • Mount Kenya

As you set out on game drives or wildlife walks, you will notice Mount Kenya overlooking the conservancy. A combination of hiking Mount Kenya and enjoying a safari in Ol Pejeta Conservancy is possible, or you can simply enjoy the view of Africa’s second highest mountain.

Nairobi National Park

Overview

One of Africa’s smallest national parks at just 45 square miles, Nairobi National Park is one of the only national parks on the planet that’s in a capital city. The park has open plains, rocky outcrops, and streams that run into the Mbatathi Athi River. You can see the Big Five here, apart from elephants. However, you can visit orphaned baby elephants in the nursery of the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, which is located close to the main entrance to the park. There are as many as 40 black rhinos here, too. Fences separate the park from the nearby suburbs of Langata and Karen.

Wildlife & landscape

  • Wildlife in Nairobi National Park

The park has four of the “Big Five” animals, with elephants missing from the list. Other animals that can be seen here include hyenas, giraffes, blue wildebeests, impalas and Grant’s gazelles. The park is fenced off on three sides, which allows wildlife to move between the park and the Kitengela Plains.

  • The terrain

Vast plains cover most of the park, and wooded areas open up to rivers and valleys. There are lots of acacia trees and the vegetation is mostly dry, which is ideal for game viewing.

Safari experiences

  • Game drives

Most game drives take place during the day and they are between four and six hours long. The drives are in 4×4 closed safari vehicles with a pop-up roof. You can go on a game drive either in the early morning or in the late afternoon and it can be a half-day or a full-day experience.

  • Guided walking safaris

Nairobi National Park has walking trails along the Athi River. If you decide to go on one, you’ll be guided by a qualified Kenya wildlife guides. Visitors will have a chance to see wildlife up close while enjoying the nature surrounding them.

Points of interest

  • Nairobi Animal Orphanage

Visitors can get up close to many animals like monkeys to cheetahs at this rehabilitation centre near the park.

  • Giraffe Centre

At the Giraffe Centre, you can climb up a feeding tower and hand feed a food pellet to a giraffe. Some lucky visitors have been known to get a kiss from the giraffe! The centre is home to the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe. You’ll learn about this beautiful species at the information centre. You may also find yourself surrounded by dozens of schoolchildren, as this is a place commonly visited by Kenya’s youth.

  • Karen Blixen Museum

Made famous by the hit movie “Out of Africa” starring Meryl Streep and Robert Redford, this plantation is where the story began. You’ll start your tour by visiting the farmhouse and the grounds where Karen Blixen established a coffee plantation and spent time with her lover, the English hunter, Denys Finch-Hatton. You’ll visit the rooms where she lived and worked. On display, you can see relics from her life as well as props from the legendary movie. You’ll also learn more about Kenya’s colonial history.

  • Kazuri beads

Kazuri beads are a testament to determination, creativity and Kenyan spirit. Kazuri means “small and beautiful” in Swahili and the beads and other ornaments are indeed very beautiful. This handiwork is made by hundreds of determined and skilled women. Their jewellery is seen and sold all over the world.

  • Kifaru Ark

This Rhino Sanctuary has been acknowledged for their amazing work in rhinoceros rehabilitation. Visitors can see black rhinos on their visit, which are not often seen on safaris.

  • Ivory Burning Site

This is a significant monument. It marks the exact place where President Daniel Arap Moi burned ivory in protest to rhino poaching. The event took place in 1989.

  • Hippo pools

Guests can enjoy walks near the hippo pools, where there is a chance of seeing animals like wildebeests, zebras, birds, and of course, hippos and crocodiles.

Mount Kenya National Park

Overview

Mount Kenya National Park has 277 square miles of land. This includes the lower parts of Mount Kenya, which is the second highest mountain in Africa after Kilimanjaro. The park is home to elephants, buffalos, black rhinos, and leopards. Several endangered and rare species, such as albino zebras also live there, and, at lower altitudes, you can see colobus monkeys. In 1997, the park and the forest around it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Kikuyu people and the Meru and Embu tribes farm in the lower slopes of Mount Kenya.

Wildlife & landscape

  • Wildlife in the Mount Kenya National Park

Mount Kenya National Park is home to the “Big Five” which is made up of elephants, rhinos, lions, leopards and buffalos. These animals can be seen wandering the moors and forests of the park. You might also spot rare animals such as giant forest hogs, bongos and tree hyraxes. You can find over 130 species of birds in the Mount Kenya National Park.

  • The terrain

The Mount Kenya National Park has a diverse terrain that ranges from thick montane forests to mountain slopes topped with glaciers. The vegetation is alpine due to the altitude, and there are around a dozen endemic plants. Unlike other parks in Kenya, there are no real open plains in Mount Kenya National Park.

Safari experiences

  • Game drives

Visitors of the Mount Kenya National Park can enjoy a drive in an enclosed 4×4 vehicle drive within the park as they search for the wildlife in the forests and around the base of the magical Mount Visitors of the Mount Kenya National Park can enjoy a drive in an enclosed 4×4 vehicle drive within the park as they search for the wildlife in the forests and around the base of the magical Mount Kenya. You won’t see many vehicles around, as most of the activities in this area are enjoyed on foot.. You won’t see many vehicles around, as most of the activities in this area are enjoyed on foot.

  • Guided walking safaris

A guide will take you through the Mount Kenya National Park as you observe flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for zebras, waterbucks, buffalos, elephants and a plethora of birdlife. You can see the impressive slopes of Mount Kenya and the natural scenic beauty of the park and the forest reserve.

Points of interest

  • Mau-Mau Caves

You can visit these historical caverns, which are deep in the Nanyuki Forest, close to Mount Kenya National Park. You’ll admire the beautiful waterfalls and discover the history behind how the tunnels were used by the Mau-Mau Freedom Fighters in the 1950s to hide supplies.

  • Animal Orphanage

At the Animal Orphanage, you can meet the endangered mountain bongos and other injured and rehabilitating animals. They’ll all hopefully be released into the wild when healed.

  • Nature trails

You can take a walk on the wild side in the Mount Kenya National Park. A qualified guide will show you the wonders, as you make your way through the land. Keep an eye out for the animals and birdlife all around you.

Meru National Park

Overview

The Meru National Park is located about 200 miles away from Nairobi, and it lies east of the town of Meru. The 340 square mile park has elephants, leopards, cheetahs, eastern black rhinos, southern white rhinos, Grevy’s zebras, hippos, and other species. From the late 1980’s until 2000, the park was destroyed by poachers and it was being ruined. However, from 2000 to 2005, the Kenya Wildlife Service restored the park with the help of a few agencies. It is now one of the most promising parks in East Africa and it’s an excellent one to visit for more safari-goers who prefer parks with fewer vehicles. Elsa (the lioness in Born Free) is buried in Meru, and you can visit her grave.

Wildlife & landscape

  • Wildlife in the Meru National Park

Meru National Park is home to the “Big Five”, which is comprised of lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos and rhinos as well as other animals like giraffes, kudus and dik-diks. Game drives give visitors the chance to witness cheetahs sleeping under a tree, Somali ostriches grazing and zebras drinking at a water hole. There are also 420 bird species to be found in the Meru National Park.

  • The terrain

The terrain of the Meru National Park is a combination of vast grasslands, wide savannahs, and thick forested areas. The Tana, Rojeweru, and Ura Rivers and many streams run through the landscape. There is a wild feel to the park, with a large number of anthills amongst trees and shrubs, and a mountainous background.

Safari experiences

  • Game drives

Game drives are usually done in closed 4×4 vehicles and they take place in the early morning or the late afternoon, which are the peak game viewing times. Qualified guides will share the magic of the park with guests as they search for elephants, leopards and hyenas. Certain lodges offer night drives within the Meru National Park.

  • Guided walking safaris

Guests can enjoy a guided walking safari in Meru National Park, and explore the flora and fauna while keeping an eye out for larger wildlife roaming nearby. You can enjoy the freedom of wandering on foot as you breathe in the smells and take in the sights. This is a unique Kenya safari experience, and it connects you to the landscape in a way that isn’t possible in a vehicle.

Points of interest

  • Adamson’s Falls

You can enjoy a guided walk to the Adamson Falls, which are set amongst beautiful scenery.

  • Elsa the Lioness’s Grave

You can let your guide take you through the park, taking in the serene surroundings, until you come to Elsa the Lioness’s grave. Elsa’s story is moving, and your guide will tell you about the bond between Elsa and the wonderful humans who raised her- Joy and George Adamson.

  • Fishing

You’ll be equipped with a fishing pole and a few snacks, and your guide will show you the best fishing spots along the Tana, Rojeweru or Ura Rivers and ravines in Meru National Park.

  • Cultural visits

You can visit the Tharaka Community and discover their fascinating history, culture and traditions on this trip.

  • Meru Rhino Sanctuary

You can take some time to visit the Meru Rhino Sanctuary and learn about the incredible conservation and preservation of these much-loved animals.

Masai Mara National Reserve

Overview

When you think of Africa, you probably picture a single acacia tree on a savannah with a flame red horizon behind it. That classic image is almost certainly from the Masai Mara. The Masai Mara is a 583 square mile area of wilderness in southwestern Kenya, made up of grassy plains and rolling hills. Its name derives from the Maasai people, the ancestral inhabitants who migrated here from the Nile Basin.

Other residents of the Mara include lions, cheetahs, elephants, leopards, zebras, black rhinos, hippos, and hundreds of bird species. Wildebeests cross the Mara during the annual wildebeest migration in one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth. It is a jaw-dropping sight and one you won’t soon forget.

Wildlife & landscape

  • Wildlife in the Masai Mara National Reserve

One of the best experiences in the Masai Mara National Reserve is witnessing the great wildebeest migration, which takes place around July each year. The large amounts of wildlife make the Masai Mara National Reserve one of the best game reserves in Africa. It is home to the “Big Five” and a range of other animals. The reserve is full of vehicles and wildlife action during the peak season (July-September).

  • The terrain

The Masai Mara National Reserve mostly has vast open grasslands and areas of acacia trees that are set together to create a forest-like area. The Siri Escarpment of the East Rift Valley forms a border on the western part of the reserve and the Talek, Mara and Sand Rivers run through the reserve, providing water for the land and wildlife.

Safari experiences

  • Game drives

Drives in open 4×4 safari vehicles are the most popular way of experiencing the wonders of the Masai Mara National Reserve. Many lodges offer this experience in the early morning and the late afternoon. Some game drives will be in closed 4×4 vehicles with a pop-up roof with a local safari ground operator. There is an option to spend a full day in the reserve. You’ll have a picnic lunch that you can enjoy in a quiet location out on the plains of the reserve.

  • Guided walking safaris

While walking safaris and bush and trail walks are not permitted within the main part of the Masai Mara National Reserve, there is the option to enjoy a 1-2 hour walk with a Masai guide or a professional safari guide in one of the conservancies or the smaller private reserves within and around the Masai Mara National Reserve.

Points of interest

  • Maasai Mara cultural village visit

You can spend time with a local Maasai community as they share their daily lives, traditions and habits with you. The visits are arranged by lodges and camps, and they offer an interesting Masai Mara experience.

  • Hot air balloon ride

This is an amazing way to see the wildlife in the Masai Mara National Reserve is to view the reserve, terrain. The hot air balloon rides take place before sunrise.

Lake Nakuru National Park

Overview

Bordered by craggy escarpments, acacia woodlands and waterfalls, Lake Nakuru National Park is known for the flamingos that reside in and near the lake. They often cover the lake, making it appear like one giant pink mass. The park is stunning year-round, and it is home to black and white rhinos, lions, leopards, hippos, and the eye-catching, endangered Rothschild giraffes. The southern end of the lake is one of the best spots for looking at wildlife, as lions and leopards will often sleep in the trees in the forest below Flamingo Hill.

Wildlife & landscape

  • Wildlife in Lake Nakuru National Park

There is lots of birdlife in Lake Nakuru National Park, with many flamingos calling the lake home. Cape buffalos, zebras, and giraffes graze on the grasslands of the park, while predators such as lions and leopards can be spotted in the bushlands. Hippos can be seen in the lake or around the shores at night.

  • The terrain

The park has grasslands and bushlands, as well as acacia woodlands. The saline lake is a major feature of the region. It glistens among the greens and browns of the park.

Safari experiences

  • Game drives

Game drives are done in 4×4 vehicles, for the guests staying in one of the park’s lodges or camps. The vehicles have pop-up roofs for optimal game viewing. The park does offer day visitors the option of scheduled game drives. These have to be booked with the park themselves.

  • Guided walking safaris

Guests can take a guided walk to Baboon Hill with a wildlife professional. At the hill, there are amazing views over Lake Nakuru National Park.

Points of interest

  • Walking to Baboon Cliff

You can take in the breathtaking, panoramic views of Lake Nakuru National Park as you gaze out in all directions.

  • Flamingos by the lake

The numerous pink flamingos that call Lake Nakuru home are quite a sight to behold. Thousands of flamingos flock to the waters. One of the best times to see them is early in the year during the birthing season.

  • Stepping onto a former movie set at the “Out of Africa” lookout

This is the scene of one of the most memorable moments in the iconic movie “Out of Africa”. You can enjoy the stillness of the spot and gaze out onto the grasslands of the park.

  • Visiting the Makalia Falls

This waterfall is a refreshing sight when enjoying a safari in the Lake Nakuru National Park. It is by the Makalia River, in the southern part of the park.

  • Hyrax Hill (located in Nakuru Town)

This prehistoric site and museum is a relatively unknown but fascinating place to visit for guests looking to do something a little different during their stay. The rocky spur is around 0.3 miles in length.

Lake Naivasha and its surroundings

Overview

Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake located about an hour and a half north of Nairobi. It is known for its yellow-barked acacia trees, its hippos, and for having over 400 species of birds including pelicans, flamingos, herons, egrets, and kingfishers. The rich flora around this sparkling blue lake attracts giraffes, zebras, buffalos, antelopes, warthogs, and monkeys to it. There’s more to Naivasha than just the lake, though. You can spot game around the lake or enjoy tea in the garden at Elsamere, the former home of the author of Born Free, Joy Adamson.

Wildlife & landscape

  • Wildlife in Lake Naivasha

Hippos are commonly seen at Lake Naivasha. You can also find flamingos, especially during the wetter months of May and November. Warthogs, giraffes, and other antelopes can be seen here too.

  • The terrain

Located on the floor of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha is one of the highest-located freshwater lakes in the region and it is surrounded by swamps.

Safari experiences

  • Game drives

At Lake Naivasha, you’ll usually go on game drives early in the morning or late in afternoon. You can see incredible bird life including flamingos, as well as hippos. Boat rides are an incredible way to explore Lake Naivasha and see its animals. For chances to spot more wildlife, you can go on game drives in the neighbouring Hell’s Gate National Park.

  • Guided walking safaris

Guests who wish to explore Lake Naivasha and its surroundings can enjoy a guided walk on Crescent Island, which lies east to Lake Naivasha. Animals that can be seen here include wildebeests, zebras, giraffes, and impalas. Walks on Crescent Island are an incredible way to see smaller wildlife and a magnificent view of Lake Naivasha.

Points of interest

  • Hell’s Gate National Park

Hell’s Gate is worth a visit when you’re staying at Lake Naivasha. You can discover the mountains covered in green plant life and the animals, which include baboons, antelope and over 100 species of birds.

  • Crescent Island

You can walk around Crescent Island, which is free of predators. Hippos and buffalos roam nearby, and the views of the lake are stunning.

  • Olkaria Geothermal Spa

You can enjoy the hot waters of the Olkaria Geothermal Spa – a swimming pool which is located within the Hell’s Gate National Park. This is a good spot for those looking to do something different while visiting the Naivasha region.

  • The Farm Shop

You can stop by this charming store to see local pottery, home goods and a few souvenirs, all made by the community.