Top 10 National Parks to Visit in Kenya
Kenya is one of the country in Africa that has captivating National Parks enriched with wildlife. It has more than 10 National Parks and reserves, but on this guide, we will list the top 10. Something unique about the parks is they offer every experience that you need.
Whether you are interested in game drives, horse rides, village visits, nature walks, bird watching or hot air balloon experience, the various National Parks in Kenya entertains and welcomes you with all. Another thing that makes it unique is how every park offers different glimpse.
Every park has a unique creature that welcomes guest in visiting. Some of the parks in Kenya are; Masai Mara National Reserve, Samburu National Park, Amboseli National Pak, Lake Nakuru, Tsavo East and West National Park among others.
Depending on the region one wants to travel, Golden Cats Safari can create satisfying Kenya Safari packages that satisfies the urge of your safari. A package as 2 week Kenya Safari can include of up to maximum of 5 National Parks.
The Parks have various hotel accommodations, some being inside the park while others are outside. Another plus is that they are located near the parks so you might be sleeping but hear the roar of lions or the mischievous hyenas laughing making you trip a memorable one.
The parks found in the Great Rift Valley are even more unique because of the Lakes as Lake Naivasha, Lake Elementaita and Lake Nakuru. This guide will narrow everything to make your work easier when choosing of the Parks to visit in Kenya.
- Maasai Mara National Reserve
Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the common reserve in Kenya and also among the Top Rated Park in Africa. It covers 1510 square Kilometer and is In the Southwestern part of the Country. It is managed by the local people of the Area.
Due to its abundant wildlife and open plain, it gives guests clear view of the wildlife and opportunity to take good pictures of them. Lions are often seen in Masai Mara as compared to other National Parks in Kenya, it is said that it is the Land if the Lions.
Due to the wildebeest migration that often take place during the end of June to October enhances the Masai Mara to become even more famous. Thousands of people travel to Mara to witness the great Wildebeest Migration.
From how you are welcomed till the last day of you safari in Masai Mara, clearly switches your culture to that of the Maasai. They meet you at the entrance with the beautiful artefacts, during your stay you get to visit them and even enjoy the culture together.
You get to dance and have a visit to their Manyatta. Clearly, Mara is worth a place to be visited, even though the things never change there will always be a change of feeling once visited.
2. Amboseli National Park
This is the Park known for its beautiful huge elephants. Not only does it out show the number of elephants it holds but also the picturesque backdrop of Mt Kilimanjaro. These are the key thing that makes the Park unique from others.
It has an open savannah that gives floor to Cheetahs in the land to showcase their speed and hunting skills. This also adds a spice in Amboseli Tour. If one is looking for a place to capture a chase of cheetah, Amboseli should be your first thought of place.
It has an observation hill where guests are allowed to leave from their cruisers and walk. Isn’t that an amazing feeling that you can wish for? While on top of the hill, you can see 360 degrees of the Park and Kilimanjaro even closer.
You get to enjoy your lunch there with views of animals and pure ambience. Amboseli is truly unique in many ways. Not forgetting birds in the Park. Birds as Grey Crowned Crane, Geese, egrets and many more are found there.
Amboseli hold many activities that you can find no reason not visit the place. Hot air balloon, Masai Village visits, night game drives, bush dinners and sundowners are other activities that you will have during you visit in Amboseli.
3. Tsavo National Park
Tsavo National Park is the largest Park in Kenya covering approximately 21000 Square Meter of Land. It is divided into 2; Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Park. The two parks are divided by the Nairobi Mombasa Highway.
Tsavo East National Park is known for its Red elephants, yatta plateau, the longest lava flow in the wild. It has over 500 recorded bird species and home to mammals as the Lion, buffalo, Rhino, hippo and many others.
The re delephats got their names from the wallowing of the red sand in Tsavo. You might find the elephant assembling in the galena river to quench thirst making it another picturesque moment of your Kenya Safari Package.
Tsavo west has taken the credit by the Mzima springs which has crystal clear water that gushes from the parched Lava rocks. This is the second largest protected areas in Kenya, and is famous for the man eater lions.
They were named so, because of the number of contractors that were killed in 1898 during the construction of Kenya – Uganda railway. It was one of the negative factors that the contractors faced and it is remembered to date.
Some of the activities that can be enjoyed in Tsavo West National Park includes game drives, bird watching and underwater hippo and fish watching. Tsavo is a destination that scenic views and natural features are found.
Getting a safari in Tsavo will explain more as to why you should definitely visit the place.
4. Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake Nakuru is located in the Central part of Kenya, on the floor of the Great Rift Valley. The park is mainly grassland and woodland hence giving proper views of wildlife. The Park is managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service.
The Landscape consist of steepy rocks, dense forest and a hill that often used as a viewpoint for the wildlife. A plus is that it is close to the Nairobi National Park hence less dive to the city. Nakuru is also close to Soysambu Conservancy and Hells Gate making it top of destinations to be visited.
Lake Nakuru is one of the amazing parks you can opt to visit for it has a lake inside it. It is one of the parks that is commonly visited by guests. It has 3 gates and known for the capacity of flamingos before they migrated.
Nakuru National park hosts a number of bird species of over 400 species that are recorded. Apart from the large number of recorded species of birds it is also home to numerous mammals including the endangered species of Rhinos.
It is recorded to have the Rothschild giraffe and mammals as Lions, buffaloes, impalas and many more. One can enjoy activities as game viewing, bird watching, camping and picnic at a beautiful view point in the park.
Apart from the activities listed, Makalia falls in located inside the park hence making it even a worth place to be visited.
5. Samburu National Park
Samburu National Reserve is one of the most beautiful wildlife parks in northern Kenya. It is located along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River and is famous for its dry landscapes, unique animals, and rich Samburu culture. The reserve is a peaceful place where visitors can enjoy nature and see many wild animals in their natural habitat.
Samburu is home to special animals that are rarely found in other parks in Kenya. These include the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx. The reserve also has elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, crocodiles, and many bird species. The Ewaso Nyiro River provides water for the animals and makes the area green even during the dry season.
Visitors to Samburu National Reserve enjoy exciting game drives, bird watching, photography, and cultural visits to the local Samburu villages. The Samburu people are known for their colorful clothes, traditional dances, and warm hospitality. Their culture adds a special experience to every safari.
The reserve has beautiful scenery with open plains, rocky hills, acacia trees, and stunning sunsets. It is also less crowded compared to other famous parks, making it a calm and relaxing safari destination.
Samburu National Reserve is a perfect place for people who love wildlife, adventure, and African culture. It offers visitors an unforgettable safari experience in the heart of Kenya’s wilderness.
6. Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Ol Pejeta Conservancy is one of the most popular wildlife conservancies in Kenya. It is located near the town of Nanyuki, between the foothills of Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Ranges. The conservancy is well known for protecting endangered animals and providing visitors with exciting safari experiences.
Ol Pejeta is home to many wild animals including elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. It is also famous for being a sanctuary for black rhinos and the last two remaining northern white rhinos in the world. Visitors can learn about wildlife conservation and the efforts being made to protect endangered species.
One of the most exciting activities in Ol Pejeta is visiting the chimpanzee sanctuary, which rescues and cares for orphaned and abused chimpanzees. The conservancy also offers game drives, lion tracking, bird watching, and night safaris where visitors can see nocturnal animals.
The landscape of Ol Pejeta is very beautiful, with open grasslands, acacia trees, rivers, and views of the snow-capped Mount Kenya. The peaceful environment makes it a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy is not only a safari destination but also an important center for wildlife protection and education. Visitors enjoy both adventure and learning while supporting conservation efforts. Its rich wildlife, stunning scenery, and unique conservation programs make Ol Pejeta one of the best places to visit in Kenya for an unforgettable safari experience.
7. Meru National Park
Meru National Park is one of Kenya’s hidden safari treasures located in the eastern part of the country. The park is famous for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and rich wildlife. It is less crowded compared to many other national parks, making it a perfect place for visitors who enjoy quiet and relaxing safaris.
The park has a variety of landscapes including open grasslands, rivers, swamps, forests, and acacia woodlands. Many rivers flow through the park, providing water for animals and creating green areas full of life. The beautiful scenery makes Meru National Park a great destination for photography and nature lovers.
Meru National Park is home to many wild animals such as elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and different types of antelopes. Visitors can also spot hippos and crocodiles near the rivers. The park is rich in birdlife, attracting bird watchers from different parts of the world.
The park is also famous because of Elsa the lioness from the well-known book and movie Born Free by George and Joy Adamson. Visitors can learn about the conservation work that was done to protect wildlife in the area.
Tourists visiting Meru National Park enjoy activities such as game drives, bird watching, camping, and nature walks. The peaceful environment and beautiful wilderness make every safari special.
Meru National Park offers visitors a true African safari experience with amazing wildlife, scenic landscapes, and a calm atmosphere far away from busy city life.
8. Chyulu Hills National Park
Chyulu Hills National Park is a beautiful national park located between Tsavo National Park and Amboseli National Park in southern Kenya. The park is famous for its green rolling hills, volcanic landscapes, and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is one of the most peaceful and scenic safari destinations in the country.
The Chyulu Hills were formed by volcanic activity many years ago, creating caves, lava flows, and fertile green hills covered with grass and forests. The fresh air, beautiful scenery, and cool climate make the area very attractive to visitors who love nature and adventure.
The park is home to many wild animals including elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, bushbucks, leopards, and antelopes. Bird lovers can also enjoy spotting different bird species found in the forests and open grasslands. Although wildlife is not as crowded as in other parks, visitors enjoy the quiet and natural environment.
One of the most famous attractions in the park is the Leviathan Cave, one of the longest lava tube caves in the world. Visitors also enjoy hiking, nature walks, horse riding, photography, and camping while exploring the beautiful hills.
Chyulu Hills National Park is known for its stunning landscapes and peaceful atmosphere. The green hills, clear skies, and views of Mount Kilimanjaro create unforgettable memories for visitors.
The park is a perfect destination for travelers looking for relaxation, adventure, and beautiful scenery away from crowded tourist areas.
9 Mount Kenya National Park
Mount Kenya National Park is one of the most beautiful and important national parks in Kenya. It surrounds Mount Kenya, the second-highest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro. The park is well known for its breathtaking scenery, cool climate, forests, waterfalls, lakes, and snow-capped peaks.
The park has different types of vegetation because of its high altitude. Visitors can see dense forests, bamboo zones, open moorlands, and rocky mountain peaks. The area is very rich in natural beauty and provides fresh air and peaceful surroundings for tourists and hikers.
Mount Kenya National Park is home to many wild animals such as elephants, buffaloes, monkeys, antelopes, giant forest hogs, and leopards. Bird lovers can also enjoy spotting different bird species that live in the forests and mountain slopes.
One of the most popular activities in the park is mountain climbing. Many visitors travel from around the world to hike Mount Kenya and enjoy its beautiful views. The mountain has several peaks, with Batian and Nelion being the highest. There are also easier trekking routes for beginners who want to explore the park without climbing to the top.
Tourists visiting the park can enjoy hiking, camping, bird watching, nature walks, photography, and exploring waterfalls and caves. The park is also an important water catchment area that supplies water to many parts of Kenya.
Mount Kenya National Park offers visitors adventure, relaxation, and amazing scenery. Its rich wildlife, beautiful forests, and majestic mountain views make it one of the best natural attractions in Kenya.
10. Aberdare National Park
Aberdare National Park is a beautiful national park located in the central highlands of Kenya. The park is part of the Aberdare Mountain Range and is famous for its cool climate, thick forests, waterfalls, rivers, and mountain scenery. It is one of the most unique safari destinations in Kenya because of its green landscapes and peaceful environment.
The park has many different habitats including bamboo forests, rainforests, moorlands, and open hills. These habitats support a wide variety of animals and birds. Visitors can enjoy amazing views of waterfalls such as Karuru Falls, which is one of the tallest waterfalls in Kenya.
Aberdare National Park is home to elephants, buffaloes, leopards, hyenas, giant forest hogs, bushbucks, monkeys, and the rare black rhino. Lions are also found in the park, although they are not easy to spot because of the thick vegetation. Bird watchers can enjoy seeing many colorful bird species living in the forests and wetlands.
One of the most famous attractions in the park is the tree lodges where visitors can watch animals come to drink water at night. These lodges offer a special safari experience and great opportunities for photography.
Tourists visiting Aberdare National Park enjoy game drives, hiking, bird watching, camping, fishing, and nature walks. The cool weather and beautiful scenery make the park a relaxing place to visit.
Aberdare National Park is a perfect destination for travelers who love nature, wildlife, and mountain landscapes. Its forests, waterfalls, and rich wildlife create an unforgettable safari experience in the heart of Kenya.