Set on the banks of the Ewaso Ng'iro River and neighbouring the Buffalo Springs National Park, Samburu National Reserve is characterised by a spectacular landscape of rugged hills, undulating plains and riverine forests. The park is home to abundant wildlife including a variety of rare species such as the reticulated giraffe, the long-necked gerenuk, Somali ostrich, Grevy's Zebra, and Beisa Oryx. Visitors can also enjoy spotting over 900 elephants, a variety of predators, and over 450 bird species. The ancient culture of the Samburu people is still alive here, and it is possible to see two unique customs firsthand. In the first, watch as herds of cattle respond to each man’s individual voice as they call. In the second, see the tribesmen perform incredible dances that go back hundreds of years.
This small equatorial town is a popular thoroughfare for hikers climbing Mount Kenya via the Burguret or Sirimon routes, and consequently has a few great restaurants, including Barney’s, known for its fine cuisine, and the Trout Tree, housed inside the trunk of an enormous tree and serving several variations of this freshwater fish. The town boasts excellent views of the mountain, while the surrounding region encompasses several reserves, including Mount Kenya National Park, Samburu National Reserve, Sweetwaters Game Reserve, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, and Shaba National Reserve.
Elmenteita, meaning ‘place of dust’, is a photogenic, little soda lake situated in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. Famously attracting many visiting flamingos as well as many other birds, it has been named as a World Heritage Site for its prolific birdlife. This is where Kenya’s most famous settler Lord Delamere lived and he was responsible for much of Kenya’s early agricultural experimentation in this fertile area; it is still inhabited by some of his descendants. The shores are often filled with wildlife and the surrounding forests are perfect for long walks and bird watching. Visitors can look forward to visiting the idyllic Kekopey hot springs, game viewing along the lake’s edge, and numerous other activities. Look out for eland, kudu, zebra, gazelle, and warthog families.
The Masai Mara together with Tanzania’s Serengeti form Africa’s most famous wildlife park, the Masai Mara National Reserve. The image of acacia trees dotting endless grass plains epitomises Africa for many, then add a Maasai warrior and some cattle to the picture and the conversation need go no further. The undeniable highlight of the Masai Mara National Reserve is undoubtedly the annual wildebeest migration traversing the vast plains of the Serengeti and the Masai Mara. It is known as the largest mass movement of land mammals on the planet – with more than a million animals following the rains. Large prides of lions, herds of elephants, as well as giraffes, gazelles and eland can also be spotted in the reserve. Aside from horse riding safaris and traditional vehicle safaris, hot-air ballooning over the Mara plains has become almost essential.
Located in Athi River, the Swara Plains Wildlife Conservancy is a magnificent destination that offers an extensive network of 100 kilometres of trails, inviting visitors to explore its captivating landscape. This conservancy is home to over 3,000 game animals, including cheetahs, antelopes, giraffes, hyenas, and ostriches, creating an enchanting safari experience. The diverse ecosystem comprises savannas, grasslands, and acacia trees, providing a picturesque backdrop for wildlife encounters. Nature enthusiasts can also marvel at the rich avian life, with over 300 bird species inhabiting the area. The presence of eight dams adds to the allure, attracting a variety of animals and enhancing the overall safari drives.
Located in the Loitokitok District of Kenya’s Rift Valley Province, close to the Kenyan border, Kimana is a beautiful, remote town boasting spectacular natural landscapes, an array of churches, and several enthralling wildlife parks. Nature and animal enthusiasts will delight in going on safaris at reserves such as the Kimana Sanctuary, where they can see mesmerising open plains, yellow fever trees, Mount Kilimanjaro in the south and the Chyulu Hills in the north. Visitors will have the chance to spot elephants, zebra, gazelle, eland, warthogs, vervet monkeys and kingfishers.
Separating northern and southern Kenya, Tsavo East National Park features bushy grasslands, open plains dotted with baobabs alternating with semi-arid acacia scrub and lush woodlands. The arid environment with its unique red earth creates spectacular photo opportunities. This park is home to some of the largest elephant and buffalo herds in Kenya. Tsavo East boasts rich biodiversity and is said to be one of the last remaining wildernesses. Visitors can enjoy many wonderful attractions including: Galana River and Lugard’s Falls; the magnificent Yatta Plateau; and Mudanda Rock, a natural viewpoint that overlooks a much visited and photographed drinking hole. The south of the park is busier, while north of Galana is a remarkably quiet wilderness where visitors can enjoy this unspoilt beauty.
