The charm of Kenya is concealed in its unspoiled and rugged national parks, which serve as habitats for many endangered species. This East African country is renowned as the wildlife capital due to its abundance of national parks and reserves within its borders.
10 Finest National Parks in Kenya You Must Visit
For all wildlife enthusiasts, here are the top 10 national parks in Kenya that will leave you mesmerized as you witness the African wildlife with your own eyes and feel the excitement of being in close proximity to these untamed creatures.
1. Maasai Mara
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Recommended Reading: Ultimate Guide for an Adventurous Safari in Kenya
As one of the most remarkable wildlife reserves in Africa, the Maasai Mara reserve is located in the southwestern region of Kenya. Combined with the Serengeti National Park, this place is a sanctuary for approximately 95 mammal species and 570 bird species, offering an incredible wildlife viewing experience that should not be missed.
Optimal Time to Visit: July-OctoberMain Attractions: Ol Kinyei Conservancy, Olare Orok Conservancy, Mara Triangle, Mara RiverNoteworthy Experiences: Witness the migration of wild beasts, embark on a thrilling jungle safariWhere to Stay & Dine: Elephant Pepper Camp, Enkewa Camp, Mara Bush CampHow to Get There: The national reserve in Kenya is located 270 km away from the city of Nairobi, which usually takes approximately 4-5 hours by road or 40-45 minutes by flight.
2. Amboseli National Park
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Nestled at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is among the finest national parks in Kenya. The remarkable sight of numerous majestic elephants with their large tusks is the park’s distinctive feature. Alongside this, the reserve offers breathtaking views that are best observed during sunrise and sunset.
Optimal Time to Visit: July-September (January and February)Main Attractions: Elephant Research Camp, Lake Amboseli, Sinet DeltaNoteworthy Experiences: Hiking on Mt. Kilimanjaro, visit to the Observation Hill, encounter the Masai TribeWhere to Stay & Dine: Ol Tukai Lodge, Amboseli Serena Lodge, Kimana Lodge, Tortilis CampHow to Get There: The national park is easily accessible by road. The journey from Nairobi to Namanga is quite bumpy, while the route from Namanga to Meshanani gate may have potholes. Flights are also available from Nairobi to Amboseli.
3. Tsavo National Reserve
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In the wild stands the Tsavo national reserve which is also one of the oldest and largest national reserve in Kenya. This vast national preserve has a broad expanse which covers rocky landscapes, extinct volcanoes, and sparse grasslands. The national reserve is divided into two parts, called the Tsavo East National Reserve and Tsavo West National Reserve.
Ideal Time To Visit: June-October and January and FebruaryMain Attractions: Tsavo East, Epiya Chapeyu Tented Safari Camp, Agenzia Safari Vera AfricaMust Experiences: Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, Mzima springs, Ngulia Hills, Lake JipeWhere To Stay & Dine: Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge, Voi Wildlife Lodge, Voyager Ziwani CampHow To Get There: One can opt for private transport or bus from Nairobi, Mombasa and Malindi. Chartered flights can also be utilized which will land at one of the six airstrips in the south or 13 airstrips in the north.
4. Aberdare National Reserve
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Resting at the cliff of the Aberdare mountain range, this national reserve was established to conserve the slopes and moorland of the mountain. The high altitude makes this area misty and prone to frequent rainfall. Despite being at a height, this reserve shelters the second largest herds of the endangered species of Black Rhinos. Apart from this many Kenyan animals can be spotted here like the African elephants, black leopard, and bongo antelope.
Best Time To Visit: June-September and also January and FebruaryMain Attractions: Thompson Falls, Kereita Cave and Waterfall, Soysambu ConservancyMust Experiences: Bird watching, trout fishing, visit to the Lesatima and Kinangop peaks, hike to the elephant hills and twin hillsWhere To Stay & Dine: The Ark Lodge, Outspan Golf and Country ClubHow To Get There: The Aberdare national reserve is at a distance of 160 kms from the Nairobi city. Whereas the easily accessible routes to get to the reserve are from the town of Nyahururu and Naivasha.
5. Lake Nakuru National Park
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Recommended Read: The Most Powerful National Parks In Africa For The Love Of Wildlife And Adventure
Providing a respite from the constant sight of the wild creatures, this park will take you on a journey to witness various species of birds from a close proximity. One of the prime destinations for a bird safari, Lake Nakuru is filled with flamingos and indigenous wildlife species during the peak season.
Optimal Time To Visit : June-MarchMain Attractions: Lake Nakuru, Hyrax hill prehistoric site, Makalia waterfallEssential Experiences: Observing flamingos on lake Nakuru, wildlife safariWhere To Stay & Eat: Lake Nakuru lodge, Sarova Lion Hill Lodge
How To Get There: The park is situated at a distance of 156 kms from the north west of Nairobi. The most convenient access to the park is through the main gate which is 4 kms away from the Nakuru Town Centre.
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