National Parks in Kenya

The Masai Mara National Reserve located in southwestern Kenya, is one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife reserves. Famous for its vast savannahs and abundant wildlife, including the Big Five, it is best known for the dramatic Great Migration—where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross from the Serengeti, facing predators and the Mara River. Rich in Maasai culture and offering year-round game viewing, the reserve provides unforgettable safari experiences through guided drives, hot air balloon rides, and cultural village visits.

Nearest Airport – Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi)

Type of Accomodations - Options range from budget-friendly campsites and lodges to luxury-tented camps and exclusive safari lodges, catering to all preferences and budgets.

Best Time to Visit – TAll year Round but if the goal is to spot the great Migration the best time to visit is between July, August and September.

The Amboseli National Park in southern Kenya near the Tanzanian border, is renowned for its breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and its large elephant herds. Its varied landscapes—savannahs, wetlands, and acacia woodlands—are home to lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and over 400 bird species. A symbol of classic African safaris, the park also offers cultural experiences with the local Maasai community, combining rich traditions with exceptional wildlife viewing.

Nearest Airport – Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi)

Type of Accomodations - A wide range of accommodation is available from budget lodges and campsites to mid-range and luxury safari lodges

Best Time to Visit – Amboseli is great to visit all year round, but the dry season from June to October is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources and the views of Mount Kilimanjaro are often clearest.

The Samburu National Park located in northern Kenya along the Ewaso Nyiro River, offers a unique and tranquil safari experience in a semi-arid setting of rugged hills and open plains. It is known for the rare “Samburu Special Five”: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx. The park also hosts elephants, big cats, and diverse birdlife. The river serves as a vital water source, attracting wildlife and enhancing game viewing, especially in dry seasons. Visitors can also explore the rich traditions of the Samburu people through cultural interactions.

Nearest Airport – Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi)

Type of Accomodations - Samburu offers a range of lodging options, from budget camps to luxury tented camps and lodges, catering to all traveler preferences.

Best Time to Visit – The Park is great to visit all year round, but the dry season from June to October is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources and the views of Mount Kilimanjaro are often clearest.

The Tsavo East & West National Park together make up one of Kenya’s largest wilderness areas, spanning over 20,000 square kilometers. Tsavo East is known for its wide open plains, red soil, and iconic “red elephants,” along with landmarks like the Galana River and Yatta Plateau. Tsavo West offers a more rugged landscape, with volcanic hills, dense bush, and natural springs such as Mzima Springs. Home to black rhinos, leopards, and diverse birdlife, the combined parks provide a remote and untamed safari experience, perfect for those seeking tranquility and raw natural beauty.

Nearest Airport – – omo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi) is the main entry point. From Nairobi, visitors can take domestic flights to nearby airstrips such as Voi or travel by road, which takes around 4-6 hours depending on the park.

Type of Accomodations - Samburu offers a range of lodging options, from budget camps to luxury tented camps and lodges, catering to all traveler preferences.

Best Time to Visit – The Park is great to visit all year round, but the dry season from June to October is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources and the views of Mount Kilimanjaro are often clearest.

The Aberdare National Park lset in Kenya’s central highlands, offers a distinct alpine safari experience with its mist-covered forests, ravines, and stunning waterfalls. Unlike typical savannah parks, it features dense forests, bamboo, and moorlands that shelter rare species like the bongo antelope, giant forest hog, and black leopard. The park also hosts elephants, buffaloes, primates, and over 250 bird species. Unique lodges such as Treetops and The Ark provide elevated views of waterholes, making Aberdare a peaceful yet adventurous safari destination.

Nearest Airport – Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi) is the closest major airport. Aberdare is about a 2-3 hour drive from Nairobi, making road travel the most common way to reach the park.

Type of Accomodations - The park offers a variety of accommodations including budget lodges, mid-range hotels, and unique wildlife viewing lodges like Treetops and The Ark, which provide excellent animal-watching opportunities.

Best Time to Visit – Aberdare can be visited all year round, but the dry seasons from June to October and January to February offer the best wildlife viewing conditions and clearer weather.

The Olpejeta conservancy located on the Laikipia Plateau near Nanyuki, is a leading conservation hub in Kenya, known for its commitment to wildlife protection, sustainable tourism, and community support. It is home to the world’s last two northern white rhinos and over 100 endangered black rhinos. The conservancy also features the Big Five and is the only place in Kenya where chimpanzees can be seen, at the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary. With rich wildlife, varied landscapes, and a focus on responsible tourism, Ol Pejeta offers a meaningful and immersive safari experience.

Nearest Airport – Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi) is the primary international gateway. From Nairobi, travelers can take a domestic flight to Nanyuki Airstrip or drive approximately 3.5 to 4 hours by road.

Type of Accomodations - l Pejeta offers a wide range of accommodation options including budget-friendly campsites, mid-range lodges, and luxurious tented camps, catering to all types of travelers.

Best Time to Visit – The conservancy is open year-round, with excellent wildlife viewing throughout. The dry season from June to October is particularly good for game drives. While the Great Migration does not occur here, Ol Pejeta is a prime spot for viewing the Big Five and endangered species like black rhinos and chimpanzees.

The Lake Nakuru National Park in Kenya’s Rift Valley, is famous for its rich birdlife, particularly the vibrant flamingos that once covered its shores. While flamingo numbers fluctuate, the park remains a haven for birdwatchers with over 450 species. It also serves as a key sanctuary for endangered black and white rhinos. Visitors can spot lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, and antelope, all set amidst scenic woodlands, waterfalls, and lake views. Compact yet biodiverse, Lake Nakuru offers a rewarding and accessible day safari experience.

Nearest Airport – Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi) is the main international entry point. From Nairobi, the park is easily accessible by road about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive.

Type of Accomodations - The park and surrounding area offer a wide range of accommodation, from budget lodges and guesthouses to mid-range hotels and luxury safari lodges, suitable for all travelers.

Best Time to Visit – Lake Nakuru is open year-round, with great birdwatching and wildlife viewing at any time. The dry season from June to October is ideal for easier game viewing, though this park is not part of the Great Migration route.

The Lake Naivasha a freshwater lake in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, is known for its scenic beauty and rich birdlife, including fish eagles, pelicans, and flamingos. Its calm waters are ideal for boat safaris, offering close views of hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. The surrounding area is home to giraffes, zebras, and buffaloes, especially in nearby reserves like Hell’s Gate National Park. With its tranquil setting and diverse wildlife, Lake Naivasha provides a perfect mix of relaxation and nature exploration.

Nearest Airport – Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi) is the closest major airport. Lake Naivasha is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Nairobi

Type of Accomodations - The Lake offers a wide range of accommodation options including budget-friendly campsites, mid-range lodges, and luxurious tented camps, catering to all types of travelers.

Best Time to Visit – The lake can be visited all year round, with pleasant weather and abundant birdlife year-round. While it is not part of the Great Migration route, the dry season from June to October is best for clearer skies and wildlife viewing in nearby parks like Hell’s Gate.

The Diani Beach located about 30 kilometers south of Mombasa, is a stunning coastal getaway known for its white sands, clear turquoise waters, and palm-lined shores. It’s perfect for both relaxation and adventure, offering activities like snorkeling, diving, kitesurfing, and boat trips to marine parks. The area also provides cultural experiences and access to nearby wildlife reserves like Shimba Hills. With diverse accommodation options, Diani Beach caters to honeymooners, families, and solo travelers alike.

The Mombasa North Coast north of Mombasa Island, includes popular beaches like Nyali, Bamburi, Shanzu, and Kikambala. Known for its lively beach atmosphere, warm Indian Ocean waters, and rich Swahili culture, it attracts both local and international visitors. The area offers water sports, resorts, nightlife, and nearby attractions such as Haller Park, Mombasa Marine Park, and Fort Jesus. With accommodation options ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts, the North Coast suits all types of travelers.

The Kilifi /Malindi coastal towns north of Mombasa, offer a quieter, culturally rich alternative to Kenya’s busier beaches. Kilifi is known for peaceful beaches, Kilifi Creek, and activities like sailing and snorkeling, with a growing arts scene and historic sites like Mnarani ruins. Malindi blends Swahili heritage with Italian influences, featuring attractions such as Vasco da Gama Pillar, Gede Ruins, and Malindi Marine National Park, ideal for diving and fishing. Both towns provide a range of accommodations, making them perfect for travelers seeking beach relaxation combined with cultural experiences.

The Lamu is a historic coastal town on Lamu Island, part of Kenya’s Lamu Archipelago. Dating back to the 14th century, it is one of East Africa’s oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlements, showcasing a unique mix of Swahili, Arab, Persian, and European influences in its architecture and culture. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lamu is known for its traditional lifestyle, including donkey transport and no motor vehicles. The town hosts cultural events like the Lamu Cultural Festival and attracts visitors seeking history, peace, and coastal charm.