Kenya is the original home of the African safari, famous for its stunning game parks, lakes and mountains. It is the most popular African safari country for both exclusive Luxury safaris and budget safari trips. Some of its most picturesque regions include the open plains of the Masai Masa, famous for its annual migration of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles, the calm waters of Lake Nakuru, which is home to millions of flamingos, and the swamps and wetlands of Amboseli.
Masai Masa
Masai Masa is Kenyas most popular game reserve for both tourists and animals. Every year huge herds of mammals including elephants, giraffes and water buffalo cross treacherous rivers and the Tanzanian border to reach the reserve. On their trail are a variety of predators including leopards, lions, cheetahs and hyenas. Tourists come from all over the world to witness this massive migration of animals and it offers an unparalleled safari experience. Tourists can also explore the traditional culture of the Masai people, who own the territory north of the reserve.
Lake Nakuru
Lake Nakuru is a saltwater lake set in a picturesque landscape of surrounding forests and grasslands just south of the small town of Nakuru. It is protected by a small National Park. Three major rivers, the Njoro, Makalia and Enderit drain into it and it is a source of abundant wildlife for the surrounding area. Flamingos and other water birds are particularly plentiful, with over 450 different species recorded. Over 50 species of mammals also use the lake, including the rare white rhinos. The lake is a very popular safari destination with tourists for game viewing and bird watching. Accommodation wise there are two cheap hotels nearby; Lake Nakuru lodge and & Sarova Lion Hill Lodge, which offer swimming pool facilities and comfortable rooms. There are also two public campsites,Makalia and Backpackers for visitors to use.
Amboseli
Amboseli is a National Park that lies to the north west of Mt. Kilimanjaro, on the border with Tanzania. The area covers nearly 400km2 and is part of the much larger 3000km2 Amboseli ecosystem. The park is largely made up of swamps and marshland but also has grasslands, open plains, woodland and rocky ground. Large numbers of wildlife converge here in the dry season and for this reason it has become a popular destination with tourists. Adults have to pay a US$40 entry fee to the park, but with some of the most incredible wildlife and panoramic viewing available at Observation Hill and nearby Mt. Kilimanjaro, it’s more than worth it. Several lodges, including Amboseli Serena and Oltukai are in the area for comfortable overnight accommodation, or there are a number of free-to-use campsites.
Luxury safaris to Kenya are available.
