Going on safari in Kenya is a dream shared by many nature lovers, and for good reason. Kenya is one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations, known for its vast savannahs, abundant wildlife, and deep-rooted cultural heritage. As a safari specialist and Africa travel writer, I’ve had the privilege of visiting Kenya multiple times over the years. It’s a country that continues to pull me back with its breathtaking landscapes, rich traditions, and the chance to witness animals like the Big Five, and so many more special species, roaming freely in their natural habitat. From the vibrant Maasai and Samburu communities to the golden light over the plains, Magical Kenya truly lives up to its name.
Let’s explore some of the best places to go on safari in Kenya, and what makes each safari destination so uniquely special.
1. Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park is a fantastic safari destination in Kenya, with its breathtaking landscapes and abundance of wildlife. The park is renowned for its African elephant population, making it one of the best places in Africa to see these majestic creatures up close. You can also spot lions, hyenas, zebras, wildebeests, and leopards. Amboseli Park is also a good birding destination, with more than 420 bird species like ostriches, various birds of prey, kingfishers, and flamingos.
The park boasts five distinct habitats, ranging from swamps and wetlands to Savannah plains and acacia woodland, providing diverse opportunities to observe wildlife.
Amboseli is also known for the views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain, which provides a stunning backdrop to the park's scenic views. You may have seen the iconic photographs of elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background, all of which were captured in the beautiful Amboseli National Park.
For a few years now, the entire Amboseli ecosystem has been experiencing a severe drought that has killed thousands of wild animals. During our last visit to Amboseli National Park, we were confronted with dozens of dead animals, especially zebras and wildebeests. Nevertheless, Amboseli National Park remains one of the best places to go on safari in Kenya.
While it is an all-year-round destination, the best time to visit Amboseli in Kenya is from June to October and January to February. One of the best things to do in Amboseli besides game drives, is a Kilimanjaro Balloon Safari with a bird-eye's view of the Amboseli plains and the beautiful Mount Kilimanjaro!
Kitirua Conservancy
In the Western part of the Amboseli ecosystem, you can find the 30.0000-acre Kitirua Conservancy, bordering Amboseli National Park in Kenya.
Yearly, many professional photographers visit this conservancy to capture herds of elephants or giraffes crossing the dry lake in search of water and food. This offers amazing wildlife images with stunning scenery and background, especially during the dry seasons, when the lake is completely dried-up.
The Kitirua Conservancy offers an exclusive experience, because only a few lodges are allowed to do game drives in this area. The amazing Elewana Tortilis Camp is one of these lodges. If you are looking for a luxury Kenya safari destination, Elewana Tortilis Camp Amboseli is the place to be.
Apart from guests staying at Elewana, you will hardly see other guests during your game drives in the Kitirua Conservancy, and you’re totally secluded from civilization.
The advantage of game drives within the conservancy is having the opportunity to get out of the vehicle to photograph from a low angle. It’s a wildlife photographer's dream destination, especially during the dry seasons when the lake is completely dried-up.
Where to stay in Amboseli, Kenya?
Amboseli offers plenty and varied accommodation to stay. The earlier-mentioned Tortilis Camp Amboseli is the best luxury safari lodge to stay in Amboseli. It is an excellent choice for wildlife photographers wanting to capture elephants and lions, and for guests looking for an ultimate luxury experience.
Suggested mid-range to semi-luxe accommodation in Amboseli are:
- Amboseli Sopa Lodge, located outside the park in the Kimana group Ranch on the foothill of Mount Kilimanjaro in Kenya.
- Oilepo Amboseli Safari Lodge, a small-scale lodge with an intimate feel
- Ol Tukai Lodge Amboseli, on a prime location inside Amboseli National Park
- Kilima Safari Camp, with views of the animal water pools and Mount Kilimanjaro
- Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
My personal favorite is Oilepo Amboseli. It's a great place to stay for mindful travelers seeking a more intimate safari experience near Amboseli’s iconic elephant herds, with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and warm local hospitality. You can read more about Oilepo in my article about the Best Places to Stay in Kenya: Lodges and Camps for Mindful Safari Travelers.
Kenya Safari Packages including Amboseli National Park
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2. Lake Naivasha
Nestled in the heart of Kenya lies Lake Naivasha. With abundant hippos, birds and thrilling outdoor activities like boat safaris, Lake Naivasha is a must-visit on your Kenya safari itinerary.
With over 1500 hippos and 400 bird species, Lake Naivasha is a paradise for birdwatchers. You can find many African Fish Eagles and Pelicans, but also the Pel's fishing owl, Kingfishers and other bird species are present.
Its diverse wildlife makes it a haven for nature photographers and wildlife lovers alike, and with its stunning scenery and rolling hills, it's no surprise that Lake Naivasha is a favorite safari destination in Kenya for many.
Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, Lake Naivasha has something for everyone.
Oserengoni Wildlife Sanctuary
Above the shores of Lake Naivasha and the bordering Lake Oloidien, we found the stunning 8,000-acre Oserengoni Wildlife Sanctuary. Spanning over 18,000 acres, this private sanctuary is home to over 50 mammal species, including the elusive leopard, hyena, wildebeest, hartebeest, waterbuck, eland, and giraffes.
The Oserengoni Wildlife Sanctuary is also home to the endangered Grevy's zebra, the largest of the three zebra species, which the sanctuary is trying to breed. Bird enthusiasts will also appreciate the sanctuary's wide variety of bird species, from the majestic African Fish Eagle to the regal Somali Ostrich and Secretary bird, as well as various vultures.
The Oserengoni Wildlife Sanctuary was created in the mid-1990s to provide a safe space for the resident wildlife. The animals can move freely between the neighboring Hell's Gate National Park and the lake shore using wildlife corridors, which are safe areas for migratory animals to pass through. This keeps the ecosystem constantly moving and thriving.
Where to stay at Lake Naivasha, Kenya?
In the heart of the Oserengoni Wildlife Sanctuary lies the luxury Chui Lodge, a hidden gem that is named after the area's healthy leopard population. Chui lodge offers the perfect getaway for a relaxing and enjoyable safari in Kenya. Its convenient location near the lake, diverse activities, excellent facilities, and friendly staff make it a choice for your Lake Naivasha safari. If you want to experience the best of both worlds - bush & lake experience - I highly recommend booking your stay with Chui Lodge Naivasha.
If you’re looking for mid-range accommodation near Lake Naivasha, I would suggest staying at Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort. It’s located on the banks of the Naivasha Lake in Naivasha, Kenya, and is close to Hell's Gate National Park. Another option is Oilepo Cottage.
Kenya Safari Tours including Lake Naivasha
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3. Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake Nakuru National Park in Kenya is one of the Rift Valley's popular soda lakes. There are many reasons to visit this beautiful lake, but perhaps the most compelling is the opportunity to witness the incredible wildlife and birdlife that call the park home.
From large mammals like buffaloes, zebras, rhinos, and giraffes, to lions and the elusive leopard, a safari in Lake Nakuru offers plenty of opportunities to spot fascinating creatures. One of the best ways to experience Lake Nakuru Park is by taking a morning or afternoon game drive.
Nakuru Lake Africa is home to over 400 bird species, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts. The best time for birdwatching is from October to March when the flamingos are in full force.
The masses of pink flamingos at Lake Nakuru attract guests from around the world, but the population at the lake varies based on the alkalinity of the lake. The lake is also home to other bird species like pelicans, storks, and cormorants.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a hike to Baboon Cliff. This cliff offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. The hike takes about an hour, and it’s suitable for all fitness levels.
Where to stay at Lake Nakuru, Kenya?
There are several places to stay at Lake Nakuru, including lodges and campsites. Some of the most popular mid-range lodges are:
If you prefer camping, there are campsites within the park that offer basic facilities like toilets and showers.
Note: It’s also possible to stay at Lake Naivasha and take a day excursion to Lake Nakuru. Find the best Lake Nakuru accommodation deals or ask for a complete Kenya safari deal below.
Kenya Safari Packages including Lake Nakuru
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4. Masai Mara
The Masai Mara National Reserve is widely known as the most famous and leading safari destination in East Africa, and the most popular safari destination in Kenya. Without a doubt, a visit to the Masai Mara guarantees a memorable experience with spectacular game drives and stunning landscapes.
The Masai Mara National Reserve is characterized by endless open Savannah plains with the iconic umbrella-shaped desert date trees, and rolling hills. It's most famous for its abundance of wildlife that includes plenty of big cats and the annual ongoing Great Migration with many crocodiles in the Mara & Grumeti River, waiting for the wildebeest and zebras to cross. The Mara is home to Africa’s big five game animals, as well as other impressive animals like cheetahs, giraffes, hyenas, and lots of antelope species, hippos, and more.
The Masai Mara National Reserve is named in honor of the Maasai people, an indigenous ethnic group of semi-nomadic people famous for their culture and traditions like the red clothes, and jumping. For that reason, visiting a Maasai village is a must-do cultural activity when visiting the Maasai Mara on safari in Kenya.
The Masai Mara National Reserve is located in Southern Kenya, along the Great Rift Valley, about 224 km from Kenya capital Nairobi. It borders Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. Both of these beautiful parks are part of the larger Mara-Serengeti Ecosystem, one of the largest and most protected ecosystems on Earth.
In addition to the areas within the Masai Mara National Reserve, there are various private conservancies located on its borders. These Mara conservancies are also part of the vast Mara-Serengeti Ecosystem, without any barriers, allowing wildlife to move freely between the national reserve and the conservancies. Opting for a safari in the Mara Conservancies bordering the Masai Mara National Park, can provide a more exclusive experience with fewer tourists and lots of animals, great for safari photography. Some examples of Mara Conservancies include Enonkishu Conservancy, Lemek Conservancy, and Naboisho Conservancy.
Read my complete Masai Mara safari guide to learn everything you need to know for a safari in the Maasai Mara in Kenya.
Visiting the Masai Mara is totally worth it! Whether it’s your first safari in Kenya or one out of many, you won’t regret going (back) to the Mara. The amount of wildlife is stunning, and the landscapes and African sunsets are magical! Don't forget your camera gear and binoculars.
Where to stay in the Masai Mara?
There are lots of places to stay in the Maasai Mara, the best accommodation in Maasai Mara depends on your preferences and budget. The southeastern part of the reserve, near the Talek, Sekenani, and Olumununa gates, offers a range of budget accommodations to luxury safari lodges.
However, for a more exclusive experience, we recommend staying in a private Mara conservancy. These conservancies limit the number of visitors and often allow ethical off-road driving, providing a more intimate safari experience. Local guides, usually Maasai people, who have an excellent knowledge of the area, conduct game drives. Additionally, the wildlife population is often higher due to the conservancies' strict conservation management. Here are some examples of accommodations in the Masai Mara we recommend:
- Mid-Range: Wild Bandas in Enonkishu Conservancy
- Mid-Range: Maasai Mara Sopa Lodge in Ololaimutia Hills, located on the northeastern side of the reserve
- Luxury: Ashnil Mara Camp in Talek, located inside the Masai Mara Game Reserve along the confluence of the Mara and Olkeju Rivers
- Luxury: House in the Wild in Enonkishu Conservancy.
- Mid-Range to Ultra Luxury: Zebra Plains Collection
Find the best Masai Mara hotels on booking.com!
Kenya Safari Packages including Masai Mara
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5. Samburu National Park & Buffalo Springs
Samburu National Reserve Kenya is located on the banks of the Ewaso Ng'iro River and covers an area of about 165 square kilometers. The park is known for its unique wildlife, which includes several species that are not commonly found in other parts of Kenya, such as the reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, Grevy's zebra, and Beisa oryx.
One of the best things to do in Kenya when visiting Samburu National Park and the Buffalo Springs Nature Reserve in Northern Kenya, is visiting the colorful Samburu tribe.
You can visit a village where the Samburu people show you around, and sing and dance. In these villages, you can also buy colorful souvenirs; a way to give back to this colorful community.
Where to stay in Kenya's Samburu National Reserve?
When booking accommodation in Samburu, consider factors like proximity to wildlife hotspots, amenities, and reviews from previous guests. I'd recommend reserving your stay well in advance, as the top camps and lodges tend to fill up quickly during peak safari seasons.
Examples of safari lodges in Samburu and Buffalo Springs are:
- Ashnil Samburu Camp
- Surana Buffalo Springs Boutique Safari Lodge
- Samburu Sopa Lodge
- Elephant Bedroom Camp
- Saruni Samburu, a luxury eco-lodge situated on top of a huge red rock in the heartlands of the Kalama Conservancy, near the northern Samburu border. It has just 6 villas and offers an intimate safari experience with breathtaking views.
Search for more places to stay in Samburu or book a complete Kenya Safari Package including a safari in Samburu National Park, in search of the "Special Five".
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6. Tsavo National Park
Tsavo National Park is Kenya’s largest protected area, covering over 22,000 square kilometers of wild, ancient landscape. The park is split into two distinct ecosystems: Tsavo East, known for its vast open plains and red-dusted elephants, and the more rugged and scenic Tsavo West, where lava flows, volcanic craters, and acacia woodlands meet freshwater springs.
Together, they form one of Africa’s most expansive wildlife sanctuaries, home to iconic species such as lion, cheetah, giraffe, black rhino, and over 600 species of birds. Tsavo is particularly famed for the “red elephants” that dust themselves in the region’s rich ochre soil, and for Mzima Springs, a lush oasis where you can observe hippos and crocodiles from an underwater viewing chamber.
Compared to more trafficked parks like the Masai Mara or Amboseli, Tsavo offers a quieter, more solitary safari experience. It’s a place where the vastness of the land humbles you, and where the rhythm of the wild invites deeper observation.
Where to stay in Tsavo National Park?
In the heart of Tsavo West, Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge offers an ideal base, with panoramic views, access to major landmarks, and its own waterhole frequented by wildlife, allowing guests to stay connected to the bush, even between game drives.
If you're planning to stay in Tsavo East, check out Ngutuni Lodge, located within a private wildlife sanctuary bordering Tsavo East. This lodge offers an immersive safari atmosphere at a mid-range price point and has a watering hole right on the property, where elephants and antelope regularly drink; ideal for slow safari observation and wildlife photography between game drives.
7. Ol Pejeta
Ol Pejeta is a private conservancy located on the equator and is home to the last two remaining northern white rhinos in the world, along with a variety of other endangered species like Grevy's zebras, black rhinos, and African wild dogs. A great place to stay just outside Ol Pejeta Conservancy is Maisha Sweetwaters Camp.
8. Chyulu Hills
The Chyulu Hills are located in central Kenya and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, including Mount Kilimanjaro, while also providing opportunities for wildlife sightings like buffalo, leopards, and hyenas.
9. Nairobi National Park
While Nairobi National Park may not offer the same level of wilderness experience as some of Kenya's larger reserves, it provides a unique opportunity to see a variety of wildlife close to a major city, making it a worthwhile addition to any Kenyan safari itinerary. Especially because you mostly fly in and out of Kenya through the capital city of Nairobi. Apart from visiting Nairobi National Park, there are a lot more interesting things to do in Nairobi. If you're looking for a place to stay in Nairobi, I can recommend Eka Hotel Nairobi and Tamarind Tree Hotel.
10. Beach Destinations in Kenya as an add-on to your Kenya Safari
If you like to combine your safari with a beach holiday in Kenya, consider the tropical coastline of Mombasa, the popular Diani Beach, or the paradise Lamu Archipelago, where you can snorkel on reefs, swim with dolphins, and enjoy African sunsets on a sunset dhow cruise. Lamu Island is also known as one of the best beach holiday destinations in Kenya for honeymoon. Find Lamu Beach Hotel Deals or Diani Beach Hotel Deals. Another option is extending a few tropical beach days on Zanzibar Island in Tanzania.
Where to stay in Diani Beach? Our Top Pick!
Nomad Beach Resort is a great place to stay for mindful safari travelers looking to unwind by the Indian Ocean after your bush adventure, with eco-conscious luxury, fresh coastal cuisine, and direct access to the serene white sands of Diani Beach. You can choose a boutique room at the resort itself or one of the exclusive private villas next door, like the Fisherman’s Villa (a Nomad private beach villa) where we personally stayed during our visit with The Sands Kenya.
Read more about the best luxury boutique villa in Diani Beach.
Kenya Safari Packages
A Kenya Safari adventure is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. Kenya offers an unparalleled safari experience that is hard to match anywhere else in the world. Request a free Kenya Safari Quote and tell us the places you would love to see on safari in Kenya.
If you prefer to plan your Kenya safari itinerary yourself, then check out my blog about mid-range to semi-luxury places to stay in Kenya.
Safari Guide Course in Kenya
Ever thought of joining a safari guide course instead of a regular safari? EcoTraining offers short and Professional Field Guide courses in the Masai Mara, Kenya. It will teach you so much more than a regular safari and you can also combine a 7 or 14-day EcoQuest in the Masai Mara with for example 7 or 14-day Kenya Safari Tours. I wrote about my experience of doing a safari guide course in the heart of the Masai Mara giving you 13 reasons why you should consider a wildlife course in the bush.
What is the best time to visit Kenya for Safari?
The best time to visit Kenya generally depends on your travel interests and preferences, but here are some of the peak seasons and ideal safari times to consider:
- Wildlife Viewing: The best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry seasons, which are July to October and January to February. During these dry periods, animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.
- Migration Viewing: The great wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara National Reserve is a major attraction, and the best time to see the Great Migration is between July to October, when the herds move from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya.
- Coastal Areas: If you want to add a beach holiday in Kenya after your safari, please consider that the Beaches in Kenya, such as Mombasa and Diani Beach, are best visited during the dry seasons, from December to March and July to October.
- Birding: For the best bird watching, the wet seasons are preferable. These are from March to May (long rains) and November to December (short rains). Many migratory bird species can be spotted during these wetter periods.
- Avoiding Crowds: If you prefer fewer crowds (I do!), consider visiting during the shoulder seasons from March to May (long rains) or mid-October to December (short rains).
The most popular and ideal time to visit Kenya is during the dry seasons, especially from July to October, when the weather is pleasant, and wildlife viewing is at its peak.
Embark on a Kenya Safari of a Lifetime
Are you ready for it? Pack your bags and embark on a Kenya Safari Tour of a lifetime to explore the stunning wilderness and majestic wildlife on safari in Kenya. It will be magical, I promise. You can also combine a safari in Kenya with Tanzania.
To summarize, here is a list of the 10 Best Places to go on Safari in Kenya:
- Amboseli National Park
- Lake Naivasha
- Lake Nakuru
- Masai Mara
- Samburu National Park
- Tsavo East & Tsavo West
- Ol Pejeta
- Chyulu Hills
- Nairobi National Park
- Mombasa, Diani Beach & Lamu Archipelago as beach add-on