One of the best places to spot incredible wildlife is in Kenya. This country also ranks at the top of the African continent for its flora and fauna. When you choose a Kenya vacations, you can observe the African wildlife in the last remaining regions in the world. From plains to highlands, forests and savannahs, one can expect a wide variety of wildlife in these habitats.
It is in Kenya that travelers can witness the African Big Five. This group consists of the African lion, leopard, elephant, cape buffalo, and rare rhino. Other animals found plentiful in the country are giraffes, bushbucks, elands, zebras, wildebeest, and more. In many areas of Kenya, endangered species like wild dogs, hyenas, Grevy’s zebra, and reticulated giraffes are seen.
During safaris or game drives, Kenya showcases the best of wildlife action. These experiences allow travelers to see animals closely in their natural environment.
Here are 5 best places for wild animal viewing in Kenya
Masai Mara
Undoubtedly, the best game viewing is experienced in Kenya’s Masai Mara. This large national reserve is home to diverse animals. Its scenic landscapes and habitats are home to a variety of animals. During a Masai Mara safari, a number of animals are spotted.
Alongside the Big Five and the common animals, the wildebeest migration is also witnessed in the Mara. The mega herds of wildebeest spread across the reserve are spotted from July until October. During this period, exciting predator-prey action is seen. For the best wild animal viewing experience, it is recommended to stay inside the Mara.
Meru National Park
Located northeast of Nairobi city, Meru National Park is an untamed wilderness area. It is set in a remote and rugged area, away from the mainstream parks and reserves. Meru National Park is well-known for housing the popular, Elsa, the lioness. Today, the park boasts an incredible wildlife population and less tourist crowd.
Elephants, cheetahs, lions, leopards, antelopes, and many other animals are seen in Meru. Some of the largest herds of buffalos are found in Meru. The Meru Rhino sanctuary situated inside the park is home to a sizeable population of critically endangered rhinos.
Samburu National Park
Samburu is an underrated national park, located in the dry region of northern Kenya. Here, travelers can spot the three big cats – lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Other animals spotted are warthog, baboons, impala, gazelles, waterbucks, hippos, and more.
Samburu also protects rare species like Somali ostrich, Beisa Oryx, and gerenuk. It is also the best place to spot wild dogs and huge herds of elephants. Samburu has various group ranches and conservancies that border the main reserve. These conservancies and ranches offer quality game viewing.
Amboseli National Park
Regarded as one of the famous parks of Kenya, Amboseli has a thriving ecosystem. This huge park is home to some incredible wildlife species. Amboseli is highly suggested to those wanting to indulge in thrilling safaris and spot-free-ranging animals.
Amboseli boasts incredible views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. Under its shadows, animals like elephants, giraffes, wildebeest, and many others graze frequently. The African Big Five is also observed in Amboseli.
Tsavo National Park
Tsavo is the largest national park in Kenya. It is filled with complete wilderness. Amboseli is located in a remote setting. Tsavo attracts fewer tourist crowds, making private safaris easier. The park has a variety of landscapes and is filled with distinct wildlife.
The park is divided into Tsavo East and Tsao West. Most wildlife sightings occur near the Galana River. This river acts as a lifeline for resident animals. While hippos and crocodiles are seen in its waters, dik-diks, lions, leopards, Somali Ostrich, and other animals are frequently spotted on the shores. Tsavo is a good safari option if you want to avoid the tourist crowd and enjoy undisturbed game viewing.
