National Parks and Game Reserves in Kenya

Welcome to Nairobi National Park "The World's only Wildlife Capital", located just 7 kilometres from the city centre. It is the only protected area in the world with such a huge variety of animals and birds close to a capital city. Travellers landing at the Nairobi airport can see the park and potential wildlife as they fly over and land at the airport. There is nowhere else in the world where such a collection of wilderness and wildlife sits so adjacent to a major city. Welcome to Kenya’s most accessible yet incongruous safari experience. Set on the city’s southern outskirts, Nairobi National Park (at 117 sq km, one of Africa’s smallest) has abundant wildlife that can, in places, be viewed against a backdrop of city skyscrapers and planes coming into land – it's one of the only national parks on earth in a capital city. Remarkably, the animals seem utterly unperturbed by it all.  Attractions at Nairobi National Park The park is home to the world's densest concentration of black rhinos (more than 50). The park’s wetland areas sustain approximately 400 bird species, which is more than in the whole of the UK. For wildlife enthusiasts, an extraordinary game-viewing experience awaits, perfectly framed by the bustling city skyline. This vibrant ecosystem is home to a variety of captivating animal species, including the graceful giraffe, elusive leopard, striking zebra, powerful buffalo, agile antelope, regal African lion, and both black and white rhinos, alongside majestic hippos and stealthy crocodiles. Notably, the park stands out as a thriving rhino sanctuary, celebrated as one of Kenya’s most successful efforts in rhino conservation. Adding to the park's allure is its remarkable birdlife, which boasts a staggering array of over 400 species. The avian population swells significantly between March and May, as a multitude of European migratory birds arrives to grace the park with their presence, transforming it into a vibrant hub of colour and song. This enchanting blend of wildlife and urban scenery makes for an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Picnic and event sites that include Impala observation point, Ivory burning site, Kingfisher picnic site, the clubhouse and Mokoyiet picnic site offer perfect grounds for weddings, bush dinners, team building, corporate events and picnic outings. read more read less

The drama of the beautiful wilderness and exciting Wildlife at all times of the year, is the experience you get during Maasai Mara Game Drives. Known for its Big Cat, sightings are generally very good here. It is an African Gem of WIldlife viewing.  This huge expanse of gently rolling grassland – specked with flat-topped acacia trees and trampled by massive herds of zebras and wildebeest – is the ultimate African cliché. But for once the reality lives up to the image and the Masai Mara, which comprises not just the famous reserve but also around a dozen community conservancies, several group ranches and numerous Maasai villages, is for many people not just the highlight of their Kenyan adventure but the very reason they came in the first place. read more read less

One of the famous Safari destinations in East Africa, Samburu National Reserve is a land of contrasts, located in Northern Kenya. It is a premier game reserve situated on the banks of the Ewaso Ng'iro River. Here, you can witness Kenya’s diverse and beautiful wildlife and culture firsthand and learn how Kenya’s conservancies sustainably blend tourism, conservation, and communities. The traditional homeland of the Samburu people, this arid terrain features northern Kenya’s biggest river, Ewaso Nyiro. Quenching the thirst of the abundant wildlife that roams this reserve, the Samburu people were lured to this area due to the reliability of the Ewaso Nyiro which provides water for their herds. The river courses through Samburu National Park, Shaba National Reserve and the Buffalo Springs National Reserve to the south. Wildlife in Samburu National Reserve Blistered with termite skyscrapers, cleaved by the muddy Ewaso Ngiro River and heaving with heavyweight animals, this triumvirate of national reserves has an unsurpassed beauty, as well as a population of creatures that occur in no other major Kenyan park. The reserve has a rich and diverse collection of wildlife with an abundance of the Samburu "Special Five" animals which includes the Grevy’s zebra, Somali Ostrich, Reticulated Giraffe, Gerenuk and the Beisa Oryx, animals which are mostly only spotted in Samburu and Northern Kenya and are not usually found in other typically visited reserves in Kenya such as Masai Mara or Amboseli. The most common mammals easily spotted are elephants, present in large numbers across the reserve. The Samburu Laikipia Ecosystem is also home to Grant gazelles, Impalas, Waterbucks, Dik-diks, Hippos, Olive Baboons, Warthogs, Lions, Leopards, Cheetahs, Cape Buffalo, Hyenas, Elands, Jackals, Klipspringer, Mongooses and Bats. The reserve also has packs of Wild Dogs though sightings are infrequent as these animals have a rather large distribution area, within which they are constantly moving. Birdlife is abundant with over 450 species recorded. Despite covering just 300 sq km, the reserves' variety of landscapes and vegetation is amazing. Reasons to Go on a Samburu Safari Samburu National Reserve in Kenya offers a unique safari experience, distinguished by several key features. Firstly, its arid landscape, dotted with rugged hills and the winding Ewaso Nyiro River, provides a stunning backdrop and supports a diverse ecosystem. Unlike other reserves, Samburu is home to rare species such as Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, Besia oryx, and gerenuk, often referred to as the ‘Samburu Special Five.’   The cultural immersion aspect is another highlight, visitors can engage with the local Samburu tribes, known for their traditional practices and colourful attire, offering a glimpse into their rich heritage. Additionally, the reserve’s less crowded environment allows for more intimate wildlife viewing, making every safari here exceptionally personal and memorable.  Accommodation In Samburu Experience the magic of the Samburu National Reserve with the following accommodation options. read more read less

Amboseli National Park belongs to the elite of Kenya’s national parks, and it’s easy to see why. Its signature attraction is the sight of hundreds of big-tusked elephants set against the backdrop of Africa’s best views of Mt Kilimanjaro (5895m). Africa’s highest peak broods over the southern boundary of the park, and while cloud cover can render the mountain’s massive bulk invisible for much of the day, you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas when the weather clears, usually at dawn or dusk. Apart from guaranteed elephant sightings, you’ll also see wildebeest and zebras, and you have a reasonable chance of spotting lions and hyenas. The park is also home to over 370 bird species. And with chances to delve a little deeper into the world of wildlife conservation, it all adds up to one of Kenya’s premier wildlife experiences. Amboseli has an endless underground water supply filtered through thousands of feet of volcanic rock from Kilimanjaro’s ice cap, which funnel into two clear water springs in the heart of the park.  However, the climatic pendulum can swing from drought to flood, and in the early 1990’s ceaseless rain changed Amboseli into a swamp. A few years later the rains failed and the grass-covered plains turned to dust. History of Amboseli National Park The name "Amboseli" comes from a Maasai word meaning "salty dust", and it is one of the best places in Africa to view large herds of elephants up close. Nature lovers can explore five different habitats here ranging from the dried-up bed of Lake Amboseli, wetlands with sulphur springs, the savannah and woodlands.  They can also visit the local Maasai community who live around the park and experience their authentic culture. In 1974 a little more than 10% of the reserve was established as the Amboseli National Park, with an area of 151 square miles (392 square km). Centred on Lake Amboseli, normally dry with a flat basin of alkaline soils, the park encompasses three of the original seven habitats: open plains, thornbush country, and acacia woodland. A great variety of wildlife inhabits the park. Important fauna includes baboons, lions, cheetahs, elephants, black rhinoceroses, hippopotamuses, Maasai giraffes, buffalo, oryx, wildebeests, gerenuk, impalas, and gazelles. There are also several excellent accommodation options for you to consider. Check our recommended list here. Safari Experiences at Amboseli: Elephants and views of Mt. Kilimanjaro are the two main attractions of Amboseli. Mt. Kilimanjaro is Africa's highest mountain, however it is incredible how sometimes she hides herself well. read more read less

Aberdare National Park offers more than a traditional safari, drawing nature lovers with its vast elephant herds, black rhinos, and enchanting landscapes. This unique park combines rich flora and fauna, with 300m-high waterfalls, lush forests, and scenic hiking trails. As you explore, keep an eye out for bush pigs, rare black leopards, and buffaloes—each sighting adds to an unforgettable adventure. Highlights Nestled north of Nairobi, Aberdare National Park covers the higher slopes of the Aberdare Mountains. The park’s diverse landscapes feature dense forests, deep ravines, and dramatic waterfalls, making each turn a scenic delight. Although spotting the elusive bongo antelope in bamboo forests or the resident lion pride requires patience, sightings of black rhinos, leopards, and lively colobus monkeys are common. The park also boasts rare sightings of melanistic animals, like the mysterious black serval and leopard. The Waterfalls Aberdare’s famed waterfalls cascade from mist-covered cliffs into deep ravines below. The Karuru Falls plunge 300 meters with ice-cold, crystal-clear water, while the Gura Falls, on the opposite side of the same gorge, add to the stunning vista. The Chania and Magura waterfalls, especially the latter near Queen’s Cave, are equally captivating. The park also hosts unique formations like the “Dragon Teeth”—volcanic rocks resembling a rugged jawline in the northern moorlands. Getting There Aberdare National Park lies approximately 150 km (93 miles) from Nairobi and is easily accessible by road from Nyeri and Naro Moru, or 87 km (54 miles) from Naivasha. Most visitors travel with a tour operator by road, though two airstrips near Aberdare Headquarters in Nyeri and Mweiga make flying an option for those seeking a quicker route. Aberdare National Park promises an enriching blend of wildlife, nature, and serenity—ideal for travelers seeking adventure, peace, and the untouched beauty of Kenya. read more read less

Visit the park that inspired the Disney Animation, the Lion King. Hell's Gate National Park is between Lake Naivasha and the Longonot and Suswa volcanoes. It is covered by ashes from the Longonot eruption which occurred 100 years ago, the park is famous for its geothermal station, Lower Gorge, and spectacular sceneries of towering cliffs, scrub-clad volcanoes, water-gouged gorges, and plumes of geothermal steam. The name Hell’s Gate is derived from the most impressive feature in the Park, the Ol Jorowa Gorge, which runs through the middle of the park. The gorge formed the overflow of Lake Naivasha between lower and middle Cambrian times. There are significant geomorphological and biological resources. These resources include the Ol Jorowa gorge (caused by the volcanic disturbances of the Great Rift Valley), Obsidian caves, Fischer’s and the central towers, which are the physiographic basis of the park; the floral and faunal communities, and its fragile soils. The fact that you won’t see predators is the park’s secret advantage: the lack of predators means you can take in savannas and come face to face with giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and warthogs on your own two feet—or better yet, on bicycle wheels. Hell’s Gate is one of the only places in East Africa where you can hike the totality of a park. You can even go on a biking safari—a far cry from peeping animals through a safari vehicle’s roof. Wildlife of Hell's Gate National Park African buffalo, zebra, eland, hartebeest, Thomson's gazelle and baboons are common. The park is also home to klipspringer antelope and Chandler’s mountain reedbuck Prolific birdlife – there are over 100 species of birds in the park, including vultures, Verreaux's Eagles, augur buzzards and swifts. Spectacular scenery including the towering cliffs, water-gouged gorges, stark rock towers, scrub-clad volcanoes and belching plumes of geothermal steam make it one of the most atmospheric Parks in Africa. read more read less

Lake Nakuru National Park is among Kenya's finest national parks. Flanked by rocky escarpments, pockets of acacia forest and at least one waterfall, the park is gorgeous year-round and home to black and white rhinos, lions, leopards, hippos and endangered Rothschild's giraffes. Lake Nakuru National Park is one of Kenya's best national parks because it has one of the Rift Valley Soda Lakes. The park has 3 main gates and once you get into the park you will enjoy a wide variety of wildlife species especially the Flamingoes which make the lake look pink. Visitors can enjoy the wide ecological diversity and varied habitats that range from Lake Nakuru itself to the surrounding escarpment and picturesque ridges. Lake Nakuru National Park is ideal for bird watching, hiking, picnics and game drives. At a Glance Lake Nakuru, situated in the Great Rift Valley at an elevation of 1,745 meters, is renowned for its significant population of flamingos that thrive on its algae. The lake's dimensions fluctuate in response to precipitation, ranging from 5 to 45 square kilometres. Positioned south of Nakuru, the fourth-largest urban area in Kenya, the park has experienced a decline in the flamingo population due to feeding pressures and pollution; however, there are indications of a potential recovery. Additionally, Lake Nakuru National Park is a habitat for a substantial rhinoceros population, often observed resting beneath the shade of the lush acacia trees encircling the lake. Encompassed by waterfalls, cliffs, and forests, the lake serves as a crucial water source for zebra, buffalo, and the endangered Rothschild giraffe. History of Lake Nakuru National Park Lake Nakuru National Park is the park most famous for the colonies of flamingos that live on the shores of the park’s Lake Nakuru. Lake Nakuru Park Kenya is a premium game park, one of only three in the country and one of the most visited game parks in Kenya.  Lake Nakuru Park is known as a bird lover’s hub because of the numerous birds that make a home in this park. Lake Nakuru Kenya Park is home to over 400 bird species including the flamingos that live on the lake and in the park’s savannah grasslands. The bird species include but are not limited to African Fish Eagle, Slender-billed greenbul, Long-tailed widowbird, Rufous-throated wryneck, Montane white-eye, Red-capped lark, Northern puff back, Rüppell’s robin-chat, Shining sunbird and many more  Lake Nakuru National Park though famous for its numerous birds, it’s also a wild game destination for animal lovers and wildlife explorers. Lake Nakuru Park is a habitat to over 100 endangered  Rhinos distributed between the black and white rhinos; the park is also home to the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe and 50 or more animal species that include buffalos, waterbucks, lions, impalas and many more. Safari Experiences at Lake Nakuru National Park Game Drives Game drives within the park are conducted using 4x4 custom safari vehicles, primarily by private safari companies or ground handlers, to cater to guests accommodated in the park's lodges or camps. These specially equipped vehicles feature enclosed compartments with pop-up roofs, ensuring an optimal game-viewing experience. Additionally, the park provides day visitors with the opportunity to partake in scheduled game drives, which can be arranged directly through the park services. Guided Walking Safaris Visitors have the opportunity to partake in a professionally guided excursion to Baboon Hill, accompanied by a wildlife specialist. This expedition offers unparalleled vistas of Lake Nakuru National Park, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the vibrant hues and grandeur of this renowned safari destination. read more read less

Mount Kenya is Africa’s second-highest mountain and might just be its most beautiful. The scenery surrounding this designated World Heritage site is breathtaking. The wilderness is perfect and Mount Kenya peaks are of great beauty. It is pristine with lakes, tarns, glaciers, dense forests and mineral springs. The montane and alpine vegetation here is unique, with a wide variety of wildlife which includes elephants, tree hyrax, white-tailed mongoose, black-fronted duikers, bushbucks, waterbucks, leopards, black rhinos and buffaloes. It is also an excellent destination for bird watchers. It is an ancient extinct volcano. There are 12 remnant glaciers on the mountain, all receding rapidly, and four secondary peaks that sit at the head of the U-shaped glacial valleys. With its rugged glacier-clad summits and forested middle slopes, this mountain is one of the most impressive landscapes in East Africa. The park hosts approximately 20 lakes and tarns. Three major peaks dot the mountainous scenes. These are; Batian (5,199m) & Nelion (5,188m). The two are mainly for visitors interested in technical climbing activities. The third peak is Point Lenana (4,984m). The scenery and ecological formations surrounding this World Heritage Site are breathtakingly beautiful. The Park is also a Biosphere Reserve. Mount Kenya has shaped the cultures of groups who live around it. The Kikuyu tribe are agriculturalists who live on the southern and western sides of the mountain, and they revere Mount Kenya as the sacred throne of their god, Ngai. The Kikuyu used to design their houses with doors that faced the hallowed mountain. In 1978, the Kenyan Government established a national park around Mount Kenya to boost tourism in the area and conserve the nation’s biodiversity. The park is surrounded by a forest reserve and both areas became UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1997. Mount Kenya National Park encompasses several landscapes, including alpine rivers, forests, and mountain slopes across its surface area of 715 km² read more read less

Tsavo is one of Kenya’s larger national parks (9065 sq km), covering a wide variety of landscapes, from swamps, natural springs, and rocky peaks to extinct volcanic cones, rolling plains and sharp outcrops dusted with greenery. Discover the Iconic Tsavo National Park This is a park with a whiff of legend about it, first for its famous man-eating lions in the late 19th century and then for its devastating levels of poaching in the 1980s. Despite the latter, there’s still plenty of wildlife here, although you’ll have to work harder and be much more patient than in Amboseli or the Masai Mara; the foliage is generally denser and higher here. Put all of these things together, along with its dramatic scenery, fine lodges and sense of space, and this is one of Kenya’s most rewarding parks. It is particularly well known for its large herds of elephants and captivating landscapes. Tsavo is one of the less populated game areas in Kenya and is perfect for those who want to enjoy a pristine wildlife experience. A highlight of Tsavo National Park is the spectacular Mzima Springs, where crystal-clear water flows through volcanic rock. Attractions in Tsavo West National Park Wildlife Species Tsavo West National Park is among the wildlife viewing destinations in Kenya which attracts tourists to the destination to see the various wildlife species which include rhinos, hippos, African elephants, cape buffalos, leopards, African lions, hartebeests, impalas, elands, fringe-eyed oryx, giraffes, kudu among others. Mzima Springs Tourists visiting Tsavo West National Park can visit Mzima Springs which is known to have clear water and hippos and crocodiles. The springs consist of four springs in the western part of the national park. Mzima Springs gets its water from a natural reservoir under Chyulu Hills. The springs are a source of water for the wildlife species which graze around the savannah plains. The trees which surround the springs are home to vervet monkeys which feed on the fruits from the date trees, raffia palms, waterberrys and figs. A variety of bird species can also be seen in the trees around the Mzima springs. Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary Another attraction in Tsavo West National Park is Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary which is located at the base of Ngulia hill. It is home to several endangered rhinos which are kept and bred by the Kenya Wildlife Service and the African Wildlife Foundation. Due to the poaching of these rhinos, the sanctuary was made to protect them from getting killed. The black rhinos which are kept at the sanctuary are nocturnal species and this means that it is rare to see them however not impossible to see these rhino species. Due to the danger of extinction of the black rhinos, the sanctuary which is well fenced and guarded by rangers and staff boosts the rhino populations as well as other wildlife species such as elephants which can be seen in the national park. Shetani Lava Flow Tourists can also enjoy viewing the black-folded lava which flows across the savannah as well as the amazing views of the surroundings. Different wildlife species can also be seen during a visit to the Shetani lava flows and these include predators which can be seen wandering around. Shetani caves which were formed as a result of volcanic activity are also found near the lava flows. Shetani means devil which according to the locals describes the time when lava was flowing from the ground and the locals believed that it was the devil himself coming out from the ground. The Shetani lava flow can be accessed from one of the entrance gates into Tsavo West National Park which is the Chyulu gate. Attractions in Tsavo East National Park The adjoining Tsavo East National Park also has various attractions which can be seen during a safari to the destination and they include the following; River Galana Different wildlife species gather around River Galana which is among the attractions in Tsavo East National Park. The source of this river is the highlands in the southeastern part of Kenya and it flows through the national park and into the Indian Ocean. During a visit to River Galana, tourists can also see crocodiles as they explore the beauty of Tsavo East National Park. Yatta plateau The Yatta plateau is among the relief features at this destination and is an attraction in Tsavo East National Park, which lies between the River Athi and the River Tavi. The plateau is characterized by plain, wide valleys and shallow, spaced valleys formed by lava flows. Lugard Falls Tourists can also visit the Lugard Falls during their safaris to Tsavo East National Park which is an attraction formed along the Galana River. This attraction is characterized by rock patterns of cooled lava. The falls were named after Lord Fredrick Lugard as he made his way through the region. The rapids were formed as a result of the interruption of the river flow by sculpted channels and rocks. At the bottom of the falls, tourists can see wildlife species buffalos and hippos as well as crocodiles in the pool formed at the bottom of the falls. Mubanda Rock This rock stands out from the rest of the national park and is located near the Manyani gate in Tsavo East National Park. During the dry season, wildlife species gather around the water catchment area near the stratified rock which makes it easy for tourists to see the various wildlife species during their safaris as they watch the wildlife drinking from the pool. Aruba Dam Located east of the Voi gate, Aruba Dam is a drinking point for the various wildlife species which can be seen in Tsavo East National Park such as waterbucks, zebras, warthogs, elephants, duikers, hartebeest, dik-dik, leopards, rhinos, giraffes, buffalo among others. it provides water for the wildlife species during the dry season of the year and was built by the park authorities. Kanderi Swamp Another attraction which tourists can enjoy seeing during their visits to Tsavo East National Park is the Kanderi Swamp. This swamp is also a freshwater source for the wildlife species in the national park. The swamp is also located near the Voi gate which is an entry gate to the national park. Tsavo River: The Tsavo River is another attraction at this destination. It runs through Tsavo East National Park and connects with the Athi River to form the Galana River.  The Tsavo Safari Experience: What to Expect When you choose Tsavo Safari Packages, you’re not just booking a trip; you’re embarking on an adventure that will leave you with lifelong memories. Here’s what you can expect when you join us on safari: Expert Guides: Our guides are passionate about the wilderness, and their in-depth knowledge of Tsavo’s flora and fauna will enrich your safari experience. Comfortable Accommodations: Whether you opt for a luxury lodge or a cosy tented camp, you’ll enjoy comfortable accommodations that allow you to relax and rejuvenate after thrilling safari days. Mouthwatering Cuisine: Savor delicious meals prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The culinary team ensures you experience the flavours of Kenya with every bite. Unforgettable Wildlife Encounters: From the Big Five to the smallest creatures, you’ll witness the incredible diversity of African wildlife. Cultural Immersion: Meet local communities and learn about their traditions, art, and way of life. We believe in responsible tourism that benefits both travellers and the local people. Awe-Inspiring Landscapes: Tsavo’s landscapes are as diverse as its wildlife. From arid savannahs to lush oases, you’ll be captivated by the ever-changing scenery. Nighttime Adventures: Experience the magic of the African night on a nighttime safari. Witness nocturnal animals and gaze at a star-studded sky like you’ve never seen before. read more read less