Kenya Safaris and Tours Destinations

Kenya Safaris and Tours Destinations

Introduction

Kenya Safaris and Tours have made this country the home of safari for many decades. Vast savannah grasslands dotted with immense herds of wildlife, epic landforms, snow-capped mountains on the equator and indigenous communities are just some of the many pictures that come into mind once the name Kenya is mentioned. When you’re contemplating about Africa, you’re probably thinking about Kenya. This is the land of the eighth wonder of the world.

Numerous herds of wildebeests, more than a million strong, cross the Mara River as they cross from Tanzania to Kenya every year. Kenya has one of the most superb land formations in Africa, owing to ancient volcanic eruptions. Kenya’s share of the Great Rift Valley is more impressive and striking here than anywhere else in Africa. This is where, we, human beings first walked upright on the earth. For you to sample the full essence of destination Kenya, it is indispensable that you explore the tourist attractions found in these regions of the country.

Nairobi

Nairobi has many attractions and these can be easily enjoyed as day tours or half-day excursions. Nairobi City is among the top Kenya Safaris and Tours Destinations. Some common attractions include the Giraffe Centre, Karen Blixen Museum, Nairobi National Museum and David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. Please see our website here for these day and half-day excursions in Nairobi, Kenya. 

Nairobi National Park

No other national park in Africa boasts of a natural wilderness, teems with wildlife, home to over 400 bird species and has the privilege of being within a city. This honor has only been accorded to Nairobi National Park whose wildlife is observed against the backdrop of the city’s skyscrapers. This is the oldest national park in Kenya and indeed is East Africa’s first national park. It is also reputed to shelter some huge numbers of Black Rhinos. Four out of the Big Five of Africa exist here.

Lions and hyenas are also commonly seen in the park. From the park gate, the road leads to the Ivory Burning Site where in 1989, Kenya’s first president set ablaze 12 tons of elephant ivory in order to show to the world Kenya’s stand in elephant conservation. The road then leads to Nagolomon Dam where Nile Crocodiles,Hippos and a variety of birdlife are common. The grassy plains of the park host many herds of impala, buffalo, zebras and hartebeests. Many Kenya Safaris and Tours start in Nairobi, by landing at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.  

Central Kenya Highlands

Typified by lush green hills and cultivation and volcanic red soils, Central Kenya is the home of the largest tripe in Kenya- the Kikuyu. The warm tropical weather in the region attracted the first white settlers made use of the favorable weather to grow their farm produce. Moreover, the region has spectacular wildlife that still roam freely in the lush green forests of the mountain slopes. The following are some of the favorite stopovers while in Central Kenya. 

Aberdare National Park

This is home to Africa’s highest dwelling elephant herds. This park consists of a continuous mountain range whose highest point rises (Kipipiri Hill) to 4,199m above sea level. The Aberdare National park is world renowned as the place where Princess Diana became the Queen of England in an overnight time span. Located in Central Kenya’ highlands, the park is also home to Kenya’s longest waterfall whose waters drop down to about 273meters. This is a great destination to visit on your Kenya Safaris and Tours.

The park is dominated by moist highland forest to the south of the ranges where numerous herds of elephants and buffalo roam. The forests are also some of the best places in Kenya to see the rare Mountain Bongo as well as the Giant Forest Hog. The central section of the park is dominated by moorland grasslands and is good for hiking. Scenic views of the landscape and surrounding geographical landforms are offered.

Mt. Kenya National Park

A real mega star of the Kenya Safaris and Tours Destinations, Mt. Kenya holds many records. Proudly coming in second as Africa’s second highest mountain, Mount Kenya lies just below the Equator; yet it has permanent glaciers! An extinct and impressive volcano, Mount Kenya is one of Central Kenya’s most magnificent landscapes. This mountain has also been accorded the coveted title of being a World Heritage Site and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

The surrounding local communities living on the slopes of the mountain have strong attachments to the mountain and believe that Ngai, their god, lives on top of the mountain. One of the activities carried out while in the mountain is hiking. The 5,199m Batian peak, is the most technical of the three main peaks and requires the use of rock-climbing gear. Point Lenana is relatively easy for any healthy and physically fit hiker.

There exists many climbing routes but the three main ones are the Naromoru, Sirimon and Chogoria Routes. The best climbing times are when the weather is favourable; in the months of January to late February and late August to September. As you prepare for your hike, consider packing warm clothes since the weather changes sporadically.

Naromoru Route

Naromoru is the most popular base for trekking the mountain. This is the shortest and fastest route used to tackle the mountain. Compared to two other main routes, it is less picturesque. Beginning from the park headquarters, the track meanders as you gain more elevation. Look out for elephants, buffalos, Giant Forest Hogs and leopards.

The 10 km stretch leads you to Met Station which is a good stop over for the night as your body gets acclimatizes to the altitude. The next day, continue on along the main track through the Vertical Bog. This is a continuous stretch muddy hills and marshy tussock grass.

Going on from here, you’ll cross the Naromoru River and arrive at Mackinder’s Camp. This bit takes around 5 hours. On the next day, you can set out early and hike for around 6 hours to Lenana peak and arrive at the summit just before the sun rises on the horizon. Finally, after conquering the mountain, the descent takes two days. A hiking tour is a great way to compliment many Kenya Safaris and Tours.

Laikipia Plateau

Laikipia is a special place in Africa and indeed a wildlife haven; which makes all our Laikipia Safaris such a great adventure. Laikipia is known to host the highest density of wildlife in Kenya- maybe even more than anywhere else in East Africa. We shall be hoping to connect with these beautiful animals during our Laikipia Safaris.

Laikipia elephants are very abundant and the region hosts the second largest population of elephants in Kenya. Other special animals here include the globally threatened Grevy’s Zebra- the World’s most beautiful zebra species; the Gerenuk or “Giraffe Antelope”; Beisa Oryx; and the charismatic Reticulated Giraffe.

Laikipia is also a very special place for rhinos; hosting all types of East Africa’s rhinos- Black Rhino, Southern White Rhino and the rarest rhino species – Northern White Rhino. The rare Black Panthers or Black Leopards of Laikipia are a true gem of this place. The rare animals of Laikipia make it a star among Kenya Safaris and Tours Destinations.

We visit conservancies such as Lewa Widlife Conservancy, Borana Ranch, Suyian Ranch, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Solio Ranch, Mt. Kenya Wildlife Conservancy, Laikipia Wilderness and Ol Doinyo Lemboro Ranch.

The Great Rift Valley of Kenya

Lake Nakuru National Park

Set at the floor of East Africa’s Great Rift Valley, Lake Nakuru National Park is another of Kenya’s world class parks that is dominated by one of the Rift Valley’s lakes. This is one of the best parks have up close encounters with White Rhinos. Being an ecological paradise, the park has some of the largest populations of Rothschild Giraffes left in East Africa.

Thousands and sometimes millions of Flamingos, adorned in their bright pink plumages are seen feeding on algae present in the alkaline lake. This birding experience makes Lake Nakuru a top star among Kenya Safaris and Tours Destinations.

 The park is a three hours drive from Nairobi with good accessibility to and within the park. The lake makes up for most of the park. Wildlife abounds around the park, within the lake margins and within in the lake itself. Lions and leopards are also present.

A game drive around the lake is always a rewarding experience. From the main gate, drive to the Baboon Cliff from where you enjoy a great aerial view of the lake lying beneath the Rift Valley escarpment. En route, Common Zebra, Waterbuck, Impala, Buffaloes and Warthogs are a common sight.

Further along, the read drives past Makalia Waterfalls. The Makalia River, originating from the surrounding highlands drains into the lake. The waterfall is a favorite picnic spot for many of the park’s visitors. The path then meanders and leads to a section of the lake where visitors can get off from their safari vehicles and walk up to a point near the lake.

The diversity of aquatic birds here is astonishing. Lapwings, Terns, Gulls, Geese, Ducks, Pelicans and Flamingos are numerous here making it a great place for Kenya Safaris and Tours. 

Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha is one of the two major fresh water lakes in the mighty Rift Valley of Kenya, the other one being Lake Baringo. The lake also boasts one of the highest altitudes of all Rift Valley lakes. It is also a Ramsar Site- a wetland of international importance. Lake Naivasha is also an Important Bird Area (IBA) and the local birds will always amaze even a casual birder.

A boat ride on Lake Naivasha is a famous activity on many Kenya Safaris and Tours.

Hell’s Gate National Park

Located near Lake Naivasha is the Hell’s Gate National Park. Carved deep into the Great Rift Valley, this relatively small park features a lot of biodiversity and is one of only two Kenyan Parks where walking or cycling is allowed without an official KWS guide. The views, landscapes, towering cliffs, and the hot geothermal steams make it one of the most impressive parks to visit in Kenya. It offers unique opportunities for bird watching, camping, rock climbing and visits to Masai cultural centers.

The Northern Tourist Circuit

A visit to northern Kenya allows you to enter a whole new world and guarantees you opportunities to view wildlife outside protected areas. Some of Kenya’s well- known big game animals, which are located south of the equator, occur here but in different forms. Others are only endemic to this region; making this a must-visit region during all Kenya Safaris and Tours.

The arid north is characterized by vast skies, lilac-tinged mountains, extensive lava deserts and beautifully adorned tribesmen herding their camels into the bushes. The Ol Lolokwe Mountain, a sacred mountain of the Samburu people stands tall.

Meru National Park

Meru National Park is a great destination located in Northern Kenya; and bathed by the mighty Tana River and its tributaries. This is one of the least-visited hidden gems of Kenya and arguably the least-explored national parks of modern time. Being less crowded, this magical park is a great destination to add to your Kenya Safaris and Tours.

Enjoy tracking White Rhino, Cape Buffalo, Cheetah, Gerenuk, Beisa Oryx, Reticulated Giraffe, Grevy’s Zebra, Savannah Elephant, African Lion and Leopard; across the vast Meru National Park. This park was also the former home of the famous Joy and George Adamson- of the “Born Free” book and film.

Samburu National Reserve, Buffalo Springs National Reserve, Shaba National Reserve

As part of your Kenyan safari experience, ensure that you include the wilderness that is Samburu National Reserve, Buffalo Springs National Reserve and Shaba National Reserve. Visualize an occurrence where wildlife is up close to your safari vehicle and Samburu National Reserve comes to mind.

This semi-arid habitat is found in northern Kenya. Superb sightings of animals and birds are guaranteed here. The is the location where a famous Lioness called Kamunyak adopted a baby Oryx! This is a key destination and a real star among Kenya Safaris and Tours Destinations.

Game viewing in Samburu National Reserve, Buffalo Springs National Reserve and Shaba National Reserve is never complete without witnessing the Samburu Special Five, namely, the Reticulated Giraffe, Beisa Oryx, Gerenuk, Grevy’s Zebra and the Somali Ostrich. This area is one of the best places to spot them. There are also some great cat sightings including lion, leopard and cheetah.

The permanent Ewaso Nyiro River supports life amidst the dry conditions and a lot of big game visits the river to drink. The beautiful landscapes and varied sceneries also provide beautiful backdrops for wildlife photography. Indeed, Kenya Safaris and Tours are great for nature and wildlife photography.

South-Eastern Kenya

From the jagged beauty of the Tsavos, reminiscent of the infamous man-eating lions, to the herds of elephants under snow-capped Kilimanjaro, southeastern Kenya is the setting of some of Kenya’s most spectacular wildlife experiences. Many Kenya Safaris and Tours visit some national parks in this area.

Tsavo West National Park

Tsavo West National Park is Kenya’s ultimate wilderness. Dramatic scenery, fine lodges, a sense of liberty in nature and plenty of wildlife are what await you here. Ranging from swamps, extinct volcanoes, rolling plains, sharp outcrops to natural springs, Tsavo West National Park is one of the most satisfying parks in Kenya.

The vast Shetani Lava Flow is situated in the northwest part of the park. After a long drive, you can get out of your safari vehicle, stretch out your legs and walk on the lava. This site is also the home of the unique Klipspringer- an antelope whose hooves that are well adapted to climbing and running through rocks.

Originating from the stunning Chyulu Hills, an underground river channel flows and emerges as a spring. This is the famous Mzima Springs which during the dry season becomes a magnet for big game such as elephants, buffalo, zebras and many antelope species. Visitors enjoy viewing crocodiles, hippos and other aquatic life present in the spring with the aid of a submerged viewing tank. This site is a very famous location during Kenya Safaris and Tours; since it was made famous by the film Mzima – Haunt of the Riverhorse.

Along the southwestern-most side of the park and straddling the boundary of Tanzania lays Lake Jipe. This fresh water lake is well described as an oasis for the animals that traverse through the plains. Keep an eye for Jackals, Impala, Baboons, Mongooses, Zebras and even Elephants coming at midday for a drink.

Tsavo East National Park

The magnificent Tsavo East National Park covers an area of more than 13,000 km2 – the largest national park one can visit during Kenya Safaris and Tours. This is the home of the famous man eaters of Tsavo. These were lions that attacked the constructors of the Kenya-Uganda railway in the year 1895. According to John Henry Patterson, two lions killed and ate 135 workers in a single year before they were shot down.

Due to its lower elevation and drier climate, the park has a slightly different vegetation cover. Two rivers (Galana & Voi) traverse the park in an easterly direction and game viewing along them turns up a huge variety of game. The park is famous for its “Red” elephants. In addition to the big game present in the park, the park also features impressive geographical features.

The Mudanda Rock is undoubtedly one of the finest places to watch the African sun setting beyond the horizon. This huge massif is located a few minutes from the park’s main gate. Its huge build is similar to Australia’s Uluru ( Ayer’s Rock) and is a perfect picnic site for visitors as you enjoy an aerial view of the park. Look out for leopards here.

Around the Kanderi Swamp a resident pride of lions is known to hang out as does numerous herds of elephant and buffalo. The nearby Aruba Dam also serves as a magnet for diverse wildlife. The open grasslands near here all the way to Buchuma Gate are great habitats for spotting cheetahs.  

Amboseli National Park

Often known as home of Africa’s elephants, this is one of Kenya’s premium parks. This is one of the top places in East Africa to watch elephants. Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, forms a beautiful backdrop for photographing Africa’s big game. This was the stage where the BBC’s Africa Documentary Series was filmed where a baby elephant died of starvation in the year 2009. Apart from assured sighting of elephants, you’ll also see zebras, impala, wildebeests and giraffes. Look out for lions and hyenas as well.

From the main gate, the western area is characterized by swampy and wetland habitat which is where you’ll encounter most wildlife, including hippos at the marshes. The surrounding grasslands are home to grazing herbivores too. At the Observation Hill, you can get off from your safari vehicle, stroll around and see the park from an aerial perspective. The views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and the surrounding swamps and wildlife are fantastic. 

From here, the Sinet Delta is a superb spot for bird watching. The surrounding acacia woodlands are also great foraging grounds for herds of giraffe – a darling animal for many visitors during Kenya Safaris and Tours.

South-West Kenya

Masai Mara National Reserve

Of all of Kenya’s parks and reserves, the Masai Mara National Reserve is the ultimate wildlife safari experience destination. The reserve was the setting where the famed BBC Television show Big Cat Diaries was recorded. The reserve feature boundless plains with scattered trees dotting the landscape. It is an iconic East African landscape that’s home to some of the highest concentrations of wildlife on earth.

In addition to the Big Five of Africa, all kinds of animals exist here; Giraffes, Gazelles, Zebras, Warthogs, Elands and huge numbers of Topi- an antelope that only occurs in Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. Kenya’s biggest population of lions thrives in the Mara – making it a star among Kenya Safaris and Tours Destinations.

With the park well watered by three main rivers and sections of marshes, game viewing is rewarding all year round. If there’s one special thing to do while in the Mara is to witness the Annual Wildebeest Migration– the seventh wonder of the world! This phenomenon occurs from July to November as herds of Wildebeests- a million strong, are accompanied by thousands of Zebra and other herbivores as they look for fresh and green grass.

The herds journey from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and travel up north into the Masai Mara. En route, the group has to cross the Mara River where visitors enjoy a front-row seat as they are treated with an unforgettable spectacle. Here, Nile Crocodile take advantage of the crossing herds and advance in attacking the weak, injured or young wildebeests. Whether you are a photography enthusiast, video recorder or plain admirer of watching African animals, this experience surely captivates you. 

The Coastal Tourism Circuit

Remote and magical, all white sand, swaying Palm trees, soft and pure water; are some of the words that will help you imagine the delightful moments that await you in this part of Kenya. When you are talking about the coast, you are talking about the Indian Ocean. The warm blue ocean holds treasures; coral gardens, turtles, dolphins, dugongs and thousands of multi-coloured tropical fish.

Ancient mosques, ruined Swahili cities and numerous palm trees exist here. For the very best of the Kenyan weather, visit the coast. Kenya has some of the best beaches in the planet running from Lamu down to Shimoni. Many Kenya Safaris and Tours end at the coast for a relaxed beach holiday.

Come and mark off the coast’s very own specialty Big Five: the Golden-rumped Elephant-shrew- star of the Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve, the Colobus Monkeys of the Diani Colobus Trust, the Elephants of the Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary, the Sable Antelope of the Shimba Hills National Park and the tropical snakes of the Bio-Ken Snake Farm. 

Known as the “Blue and White” city, Mombasa is the gateway to East Africa. Owing to the interaction of the Indian, Arab and African influences, the city’s blend of Swahili culture, found nowhere else in East Africa, makes you feel like you are away from Kenya. Visit Fort Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that established by the Portuguese in the 15th century to serve as their headquarters in the city. 

Shimba Hills National Reserve

The verdant hills are the only Kenyan home of the Sable Antelope – a top target for Kenya Safaris and Tours. Surprisingly, this rather small protected area supports numerous herds of elephants and buffalo, Masai Giraffe and warthogs. Birdlife and butterflies are also abundant. While in the park, take a two hour hike down the Sheldrick Falls where there is a natural plunge pool.

The nearby Marere Dam is also a magnet for most of the park’s animals as they come for a drink during midday. Stunning views of the reserve are enjoyed at Elephant Hill as you look over the valley towards the Indian Ocean. The reserve can be visited all year round though the best visiting times are from November to March. 

Diani Beach. 

With an unblemished tract of white sand beach, lush forests and surfable waves, Diani is one of the most famous beach holiday destinations in Kenya. Whether you are looking for a honeymooner’s location, you are a water-sports enthusiast, or you like to chill out in the fine sea breeze, Diani has some of the finest attractions to suit your needs. As it has been rightly mentioned, the acronym “Beach” stands for Best Escape Anyone Can Have and indeed Diani turns this philosophy into a reality.

The coral reefs are home to Dolphins and the occasional Whale Sharks. Look out for migrant birds that escape the winter months in Europe and roost here during the months of October to March. If you are a lover of primates, you can pop in at the Colobus Conservation Center where orphaned or injured Colobus Monkeys are taken care of. The Peters’s Angola Colobus is restricted to the coastal forests and this center offers close up encounters with them. Diani is indeed a fovourite among the many Kenya Safaris and Tours Destinations.

Jumba La Mtwana

These are Swahili ruins located north of Mtwapa Creek and have as much magnificence as their counterparts, the Gede Ruins. Jumba La Mtwana means “Big House of Slaves.”The locals hold that the town was once an important slave port. Slaves were traded here in exchange for turtle shells, rhino horns, Chinese dishes and some fragments which can be seen on the floors of some buildings today. The Mosque by the Sea room overlooks the Indian Ocean (and visitors always pack their swimming costume).

Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park

This is one of the best marine parks in Kenya. The park is composed of 28km2 of pristine coral reefs and offers unforgettable diving and snorkeling activities. The park has impressive marine life and you have good chances of seeing dolphins and green turtles. The best time to visit is from October to March. Avoid snorkeling during the months of June through August due to rough waters, poor visibility and silt.  

Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve

This is the largest indigenous coastal forest remaining in East Africa; and a famous site among our Kenya Safaris and Tours Destinations. It is most famous for sheltering the Golden-rumped Elephant-shrew and some 240 bird species, notably the Clarke`s Weaver and Africa`s smallest Owl, the Sokoke Scops Owl. The entrance is just off the Malindi- Mombasa road and from the visitor center, nature trails and 4WD tracks cut though the forest. After exploring the forest in the morning, you can visit the nearby Mida Creek, situated about 3kms south. 

Mida Creek

The picturesque Mida Creek features extensive mudflats filled with crabs, ebbs and tides and a fresh sea breeze from the Indian Ocean as mangrove trees line the edges of the creek. A number of waders also actively forage along the shores. Immerse your feet in the cool waters as you feel the white sand beneath your feet- Magical and enjoy the local birdlife. You can go up a boardwalk as you enjoy an aerial view the landscape of the creek and the mangroves.

At the end of the walkway, you can sample some tasty coconut beverage which locals refer to as madafu. Local culture, like enjoying local coastal Swahili dishes, makes Kenya Safaris and Tours even more satisfying.

Gede or Gedi Ruins

Besides wildlife safaris and gamedrives the Gede Ruins is a charm for coastal Kenya visitors. This series of coral palaces, mosques and townhouses, which once housed about 3,000 people, lies quietly some few kilometers south of Mida Creek. Here, archaeologists found evidence of the cosmopolitan Swahili culture. Samples included some necklaces decorated with Maria Teresa coins (from Europe) and Arabic calligraphy (from Europe).

The town of Gede was once a vibrant destination. However, at the turn of the 17th century, it is believed that a 40m well which sustained the town eventually dried up and thus the town was abandoned. 

Malindi

This coastal town of Kenya has some of the best pizzas in all of Africa, thanks to the many Italians residing therein. Alluring seafood and Swahili dishes are quite a charm here. The impressive Vasco Da Gama Pillar was erected by Vasco Da Gama as a navigational pillar in 1498 as he toured the East African Coast. There are good views from here down the coast. 

Watamu Beach

Established that the beaches in Watamu are regarded as some of the most idyllic on the Indian Ocean, magnificent tropical climate and the sea like bath water, you might wonder what extra thing you might want of a beach holiday. Everyone in Watamu is always drawn to her beach just before the noonday heat.

Lamu Archipelago

The Lamu Archipelago forms the most evocative destination in the Kenyan coast – a true gem among the many Kenya Safaris and Tours Destinations. 

Until the late 70s, Lamu has maintained a relatively low profile and has been little explored. The town has still preserved this status for its visitors. Lamu town is one East Africa’s oldest living towns, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and undoubtedly the most complete Swahili town in existence. A highlight of your trip to Lamu is to walk through the medieval stone towns of narrow streets as you marvel at the captivating architecture as well as sampling the delicious local cuisine.

If you are up for a beach holiday, you have the option taking a dhow ride to Shela. This is a 12km stretch of beach. You can walk here and enjoy the breeze and sheer beauty offered. After your dhow trip, remember to treat yourself with the local coconut rice and some spiced fish. 

Another option is to tour the famous Manda Island– a desert island in the Indian Ocean. Manda, is one of Africa’s earliest trading centers; and a top destination on many Kenya Safaris and Tours. Beaches, mangroves and mud flats edge this island and a number of sunny spots exist where you could lay down your towel and soak in the tropical sun. The nearby Paté Island is known for its hospitable and welcoming residents who are friendly to visitors as they value your effort to visit their island.

Conclusion

Kenya is truly one of Africa’s premier safari destinations. Kenya Safaris and Tours are some of the best travel experiences globally. Being on the equator, Kenya’s warm tropical weather is pleasant throughout the year and most of her exceptional parks are well accessible by road and by air. The country’s unrivalled range of iconic attractions offers you top and “must do” experiences. The wide-open spaces of the Masai Mara, dotted with Acacia trees and the sounds of lions roaring at night are quintessential Kenya.

As you plan to visit and try out several Kenya Safaris and Tours Destinations, we say Safari njema. Come and forge that deep connection with the wilderness here!

We, at Bovid Africa Safaris look forward to hosting you on many Kenya Safaris and Tours. Please contact us today to start planning your next safari adventure…