Spotting a beautiful pride of lions lying on the road blocking your route, experiencing territorial fights between hippos, seeing elephants bathe in mud under the midday sun and following millions of wildebeests as they migrate from one national park to the other, this is what awaits you in one of those African safaris. East Africa is where you need to be for your adventure, with Tanzania and Kenya offering a similar experience in terms of the biodiversity and animals. There is no such thing as the ‘best safari destination’ as your ultimate choice depends on your personal preferences and the season you choose to visit the African continent. Bookmundi examines Safaris in Kenya, and highlights what you need to know about the country and its wildlife, to help you prepare for your Kenyan Safari.
Why Do Your Safaris in Kenya
East Africa gave birth to the concept of safaris, but the word safari actually originated in Kenya. And what could be better than enjoying your safari in the very country that presented this concept to the world! Kenya and Tanzania have always been at each other’s throats trying to grab a large share of tourists visiting the region, but traditionally, Kenya has always managed to beat its neighbor thanks to its historic charm and mammoth reputation. After all, watching an elephant pose for your camera with the Kilimanjaro acting as a backdrop is a view of a lifetime! Kenya is known for its breathtaking diversity, both in terms of its landscapes and also its animals. From stunning Migration scenes of the Maasai Mara to those large elephant herds in Amboseli, listening to the roar of the lion under a starry sky or searching for predators in the savannah, safaris in Kenya really know how to bring on the romance. The camps and lodges found here are exceptionally well-maintained and despite the number of tourists these safaris attract, it is still possible to enjoy a sense of solitude and remoteness in most national parks of Kenya. The country’s wildlife covers as many as 25000 animal species and more than 1100 species of birds. The Mara is perhaps its crown jewel, home to some of the largest lions on the planet, but places such as the Amboseli National Park, Lewa Conservancy and Samburu are equally exciting. With most national parks in the country presenting postcard-perfect views, a classic safari circuit and year-round guaranteed animal sightings, you really couldn’t ask for more.
The Safari Circuits of Kenya
Kenya doesn’t have obvious safari routes, but it does present certain clusters which can be combined in the same itinerary. Most people tend to fly into Nairobi, choose a particular safari circuit and dive into the wild. And unlike Tanzania, Kenya is very compact. So one doesn’t need to stick to the confines of a particular circuit. It is entirely possible to mix and match, taking in highlights from different circuits.
- Central Kenya and Nairobi: Central Kenya is a must-visit for adventure lovers. The area is full of remote alpine moors and breathtaking waterfalls, majestic peaks and stunning African landscapes. Some of the parks in Central Kenya include Nairobi National Park, Nairobi Animal Orphanage, Mount Kenya National park, Nairobi Safari Walk and Aberdares National Park.
- Coastline: The coastline is most famous for its sun-kissed beaches, warm inviting waters and glittery sand, but it also presents easy access to sleepy rivers, entrancing inlets and beautiful ecosystems. Diving, water sports, seeing endangered primates, sun-bathing and exploring remnants of an African tropical rainforest are the top activities here. The parks found along Kenya’s coastline include Tana River Primate Reserve, Arabuko Sokoke National Reserve and Malindi National Park.
- South: The southern region is mostly dominated by Tsavo West and East, the largest national park in the country. Also vying for your attention is Amboseli, home to the great Kilimanjaro. The area is rugged and much more remote than some of the more popular circuits and game viewing is an interesting activity here.
- East: The eastern circuit is located right outside Nairobi and it covers three parks, Shaba, Buffalo Springs, and Samburu, each separated by the Ewaso Nyiro River. The Meru National Reserve is also located here. This circuit presents unique accommodations where you don’t even have to make the effort of going for a safari. Simply sit with a glass of wine in your hand and wait for the animals to come and see you.
- North Rift: The North Rift circuit is incredibly remote, and is one of the few areas in Kenya that is difficult to access. Its biggest appeal is its exotic bird sanctuaries and those refreshing hot springs. The annual camel derby is the most popular event here, but visitors can also enjoy activities such as horse riding, ballooning, game watching, camel riding and mountain biking. The national parks found in Kenya’s North Rift circuit include South and Central Island National Park, Laikipia National Reserve and Nasalot National Reserve.
- West: The Western circuit is the least visited region of Kenya. And as a result, it always presents untouched expanses, some of the remotest swamps and forests, and most of the rarest species found in Kenya. White and black colobus monkeys, roan antelopes, de brazza’s monkey and the sitatunga antelope are a few names to watch out for. The national parks located here include Kakamega Forest National Reserve, Saiwa Swamp National Park, Mount Elgon National Reserve and Ruma National Park.
- Southern Rift: Last but not the least is the Southern Rift Circuit. This is where you get to see the most popular national parks of Kenya. This is where a majority of safari visitors tend to concentrate their energies, for the circuit hosts the top three – the Maasai Mara National Park, Hell’s Gate National Park and Lake Nakuru National Park.
All in all, there is plenty of good reasons to do your safari in Kenya. The country offers amazing wildlife safaris, and several good safari circuits.
