Where to go for a Kenya Safari
Where Are the Places to Visit in Kenya while on a Safari?
When you think of Africa, Kenya is most probably the picture you picture. With good reason, Kenya is among those amazing locations most people on their Africa bucket list have on top priority. Kenya boasts a great number of stunning locations, each with its special appeal and charms. Though there is much more to see in this East African nation, the Masai Mara is where one visits Kenya for the renowned and dramatic wildebeest migration. It helps to separate the main holiday locations in the nation:
Central Kenya
Usually starting from Nairobi, the country’s logistical capital, central Kenya is where all Kenya safari itineraries begin.
Western Kenya
Home of the Masai Mara National Reserve, the most well-known safari destination in Western Kenya
Northern Kenya
Samburu National Park, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, and Laikipia are just a few of the excellent safari choices found in Northern Kenya.
Southern Kenya
Mount Kilimanjaro, Southern Kenya is where you will find the highest point in Africa. Some of Kenya’s nicest beaches lie further down on the southern coast.
Kenya travel Guide
1. Masai Mara: Wildebeest Migration and Year-Round Wildlife Viewing
The Masai Mara, Kenya’s premier conservation area, is not the largest in the country but is integral to the Masai Mara-Serengeti ecosystem, renowned for the Great Wildebeest Migration. The Masai Mara safari provides the most striking wildlife observation and a diverse array of experiences tailored for all travelers. It is the destination in Kenya for hot air balloon excursions, exhilarating game drives, cultural engagements, and guided nature walks in private conservancies. The combination of these factors, together with exceptional Masai Mara lodges, establishes it as one of Kenya’s premier attractions.
2. Nairobi: The Logistics Hub of East Africa
As most of our premier Kenya safaris commence or conclude in Nairobi, a layover in this city is virtually unavoidable. International travelers will arrive at Jomo Kenyatta Airport; however, Wilson Airport, located approximately 90 minutes away, offers regional and charter flights to Kenya’s premier sites, including the Masai Mara. Nairobi is a vibrant metropolis, the largest city between Johannesburg and Cairo, where one can encounter the genuine essence of ‘everyday Africa.’
It is advisable to avoid downtown Nairobi, particularly because the city’s primary attractions—such as the Karen Blixen Museum, the Giraffe Centre, and the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage—are situated in its verdant suburbs. Regarding giraffes, a quintessential destination in Kenya is the extraordinary Giraffe Manor, where these gentle beings extend their heads through your bedroom window, creating an indelible experience. The Nairobi National Park, juxtaposed against a striking skyline of urban skyscrapers, is a sanctuary for lions, rhinos, zebras, and several antelope species, providing an excellent introduction to ethical wildlife interactions in Africa.
3. Lamu Archipelago: Quintessential Barefoot Luxury Coastal Experience
The unblemished Lamu Archipelago offers scuba diving and snorkeling on immaculate reefs, sunset dhow cruises, and swimming with dolphins, making it an ideal complement to a Kenya safari and an exemplary beach holiday. It is among the premier holiday places in Kenya for an extraordinary honeymoon retreat. Exquisite luxury accommodations are offered on both Lamu Island and the adjacent Manda Island.
4. Amboseli National Park: Optimal Perspectives of Mt. Kilimanjaro
Amboseli National Park, located a short distance from Nairobi, is the quintessential site in Kenya to appreciate the iconic vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro, which is paradoxically located in Tanzania. Significant wildlife watching occurs, particularly in the marsh regions of Amboseli; nonetheless, the park is frequently crowded, as this period is regarded as optimal for safaris in Kenya, necessitating the anticipation of sharing sightings with fellow tourists. Desire to investigate further? We provide an excellent guide for choosing between Kilimanjaro and Mt. Kenya, enhancing your travel experience significantly.
5. Laikipia Plateau: Exclusive Reserves and Exceptional Lodging
Kenya’s latest safari destination is situated just north of Nairobi on the edge of the enchanting Great Rift Valley. Laikipia, characterized by flourishing private reserves, opulent family-oriented lodgings, and recognized as one of Africa’s premier honeymoon locales, is an essential place for a Kenyan vacation. If you seek an exclusive and varied, intimate safari experience in Kenya, free from crowds, this is the option for you.
6. Mombasa and Kenyan Beaches: Family Resorts and Luxury Lodges
Amidst the focus on Kenya’s safari locales, one may overlook the country’s stunning tropical coastline. The sandy beaches and azure waters are regarded as some of Kenya’s premier holiday destinations. Mainland Mombasa is a favored location in Kenya, renowned for its comprehensive beach resorts; nevertheless, inquire about Kenya’s more exclusive mainland beach lodges that emphasize exclusivity, elegance, and pleasure.
7. Mount Kenya and the Central Highlands: Wildlife Observation in Solitude
Although the Masai Mara is undeniably captivating, travelers to Kenya seeking less congested safari locations might venture to the mountainous Central Highlands. Mount Kenya, Africa’s second highest peak at 5,200 meters, dominates the landscape of the region, which encompasses notable wildlife destinations including the family-oriented and multi-activity Meru National Park, the private Lewa Downs Conservancy at the foothills of Mount Kenya, Mount Kenya National Park, and the remarkable forests of Aberdares National Park.
Choosing between a visit to Mount Kenya and Kilimanjaro might be challenging, since each possesses its distinct allure. However, if you choose a leisurely Mount Kenya safari, any of these parks is suitable. UNESCO has recently declared that the Mount Kenya-Lewa Wildlife Conservancy will be incorporated as an extension of Mount Kenya National Park, thereby augmenting the protection of the area as a World Heritage Site and elevating the region to a premier tourist destination in Kenya.
8. Shaba and Samburu: Pristine Wilderness
Shaba and Samburu National Reserves are situated to the north of the area where Kenya’s savannah transitions into desert scrub and mountainous terrain. The landscape is striking, and in addition to a well-known array of traditional African fauna, you will encounter species absent from Kenya’s more renowned parks, rendering it one of the most attractive destinations in Kenya. Samburu National Reserve is regarded as one of the premier holiday destinations in Kenya, distinguished by its stunning topography and animals, and Shaba is similarly notable, albeit with a small variation in landscape.
9. Spectacular Game Viewing at Lake Nakuru
Lake Nakuru, located in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya, is a mere three-hour journey from Nairobi. It is home to a plethora of wildlife and breathtaking vistas. The 400 species of birds documented here are of greater interest to bird watchers, although rhino and hippo are among the heavyweights. During your visit, reserve a room at the Lake Nakuru Lodge for an unforgettable Kenyan vacation.
