The vast open spaces of Kenya offer tourists the possibility of thrilling safari memories. The natural beauty of the African continent, populated by notable wildlife, can provide vistas to inspire and awe anyone who makes the trip to explore the Kenyan wilderness. There are many destinations to choose from.
Top Safari Destinations
- Maasai Mara National Reserve
One of the most notable safari destinations is the Maasai Mara National Reserve. The Mara is well known for its population of large cats: cheetahs, leopards, and lions. It is also the home range for the yearly migration of herds of wildebeest, zebra, and Thomson’s gazelles, where the animals range from the Mara into the Serengeti of Tanzania. One of the most exciting ways to observe the migration is by choosing a hot air balloon tour.
- Amboseli National Park
Another favored safari destination is the Amboseli National Park, renowned for its free-ranging elephants. The park also offers a spectacular view of Mount Kilimanjaro. The wide open spaces of Amboseli give visitors some of the best opportunities for seeing the wildlife within their habitats. Because of this, careful rules are laid out to protect the animals: stay in your vehicles except at specified viewing areas, leave the animals alone, and always give them the right-of-way.
- Nakuru National Park
For the fabulous sight of thousands and thousands of flamingos, take a safari to the Lake Nakuru National Park. The constantly moving swells of pink make for the most famous attraction of the Park. However, it has also become a reserve for Rothschild giraffes and black rhinos. The Rothschild giraffe is one of the most endangered giraffe species, and Lake Nakuru is an important preserve for them. Likewise, the black rhino, with only about 25 individuals left in the park’s herd, is critically endangered. If you wish to see these magnificent creatures in the wild, then Lake Nakuru is for you.
- Aberdare National Park
Visitors to the Aberdare National Park can take advantage of nighttime viewing of wildlife at the famous Treetops Lodge. The park covers regions of the central mountain range of Kenya, with rainforests clustered in the lower valleys. Treetops had always been a unique safari destination, originally being a literal tree-house. The original structure was burned in 1954, but the current building continues the tradition of the nighttime experience of the local animals.
- Samburu National Reserve
On the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro river, you will find the Samburu National Reserve, another safari destination for those who are particularly interested in lions. Samburu is where George and Joy Adamson raised the famous Elsa the lioness. In the midst of the reserve, the river winds its way through thick forests and palm groves, showing the visitor another side of African plant life.
When To Go
The best time to visit Kenya for safari is during the dry season, which generally runs from June through October. January and February also give a brief period free from the heavy rains of the rainy season. You will do better visiting in the dry season because the drier vegetation makes it more certain that you will actually see the animals you hope to observe. In March to May, when the rainfall is at its greatest, many camps and lodges close down altogether.
Possible Costs
Costs for your safari are dependent upon many factors. A single day with a private guide might cost you $250, while four days in a group could begin around $650 per person. A less expensive large group tour, traveling for 6 days and camping, might cost $1,055 (prepaid) per person, while a smaller group staying at lodges could run $2,500 or more. There are many combinations and options available for the eager safari traveler.
