2. Kenya; a place where one gets to connect with the wild on its terms; a
place where visitors come face to face with roaring lions and observe a
magnificent cheetah lording over its territory; a place where herds of
massive elephants have the right of way. In other words, in Kenya,
humans are at a precarious position on the food chain!
Kenya is the birthplace of the safari, the word meaning ‘journey’ in
Swahili. As expected, the country offers numerous options to
experience African wildlife. The days of hunters with weapons are long
gone, now travelers on African safaris are armed with cameras and
binoculars. Most safaris start in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, and tours
typically include two to three national parks or game reserves.
3. Kenya’s largest game reserve, Tsavo Park brings home the essence of wild Africa. Visitors are
taken for game drives over couple of days where they hope to spot
lion, giraffe, warthog, elephant and buffalo. Accommodation options range from safari
lodges, hotels and camps. One of the most unusual, in fact one of Kenya’s flagship lodges, is
Sarova Saltlick Game Lodge. A cluster of rooms built on stilts, overlooking a spot lit watering
hole at night. This lodge has excellent game viewing options throughout the day, and is a
favorite amongst travelers looking for luxurious accommodation.
4. Watching the sun go down on the Masai Mara is one of the most wonderful and magical experiences
there is. This park is globally famous for its exceptional population of lions, cheetahs and leopards,
and if you happen to visit between July and October, you can witness the breathtaking annual
spectacle of the Great Migration of zebra, Thompson’s gazelle and wildebeest to and fro from the
Serengati. If prowling predators chasing teeming herds of prey is not you cup of tea, you can always
take it easy and observe the Masai people. The Masai are an African tribe of pastoralists who have
managed to retain their identity despite encroaching modernity. They can be spotted in the park with
their herds of cattle and goats. For the trip of a lifetime, ask the Kenya safari tourist guide to organize
a hot air balloon safari ; an incomparable experience, floating above the vast Masai Mara – its herds
of animals grazing below.
5. In the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, the Amboseli National Park is vast, swampy and
flat. Amboseli Porini Camp, one of Kenya’s best safari camps is run in partnership with
the local Masai community and guests can choose between a comfy main camp or a
basic mobile camp nearby.
6. Lake Nakuru National Park is another great place to visit. Keep your eyes peeled for white
rhinos, hippos and ostriches. Famous for its million flamingos, the park is home to a huge
variety of birds. Aberdare National Park is known for its lovely waterfalls and rare species of
rhino, black leopard and bongo antelope.
7. Lewa Wildlife Consevancy is a private reserve set up to protect the black rhino, sitatunga, and
the endangered Grevy's zebra. This park is excellently maintained; there are over 60 species of
mammals and 200 species of birds. You can enjoy your game viewing on foot, on the back of a
camel, or in a traditional safari vehicle.
8. Nairobi National Park is one of Kenya's most successful black rhino sanctuaries. It is home to
over 400 species of bird. It is conveniently located within a stone's throw of Kenya's bustling
capital city, Nairobi. Walking trails offer visitors a chance to experience the African bush at its
best.
These are, but a handful of some of Kenya’s wildlife viewing options. The country boasts over
40 such opportunities of viewing wildlife in its natural habitat. A well-planned Kenya safari is a
holiday like no other!