Kenya National Parks Guide_Best Safari Experiences
Welcome to Our Kenya National Parks Guide
Discover the magic of Kenya through our comprehensive guide to the nation’s most iconic national parks. Whether you’re an experienced safari traveler or planning your very first adventure, our Kenya National Parks Guide is your trusted companion. We share insider tips, seasonal advice, and inspiring stories—from the thrilling wildebeest migrations of the Masai Mara to the breathtaking landscapes of Aberdare—all designed to help you experience Kenya’s wild beauty like never before.
Kenya is a land of breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and world-famous safari experiences. Whether you’re an adventurous traveler seeking an off-the-beaten-path expedition or a first-time visitor dreaming of witnessing the legendary Great Migration, Kenya’s national parks and conservancies offer an unparalleled safari adventure.
From the sweeping plains of Masai Mara, home to the dramatic wildebeest migration, to the elephant-dotted landscapes of Amboseli, where Mount Kilimanjaro serves as an iconic backdrop, Kenya’s parks showcase the best of Africa’s wild beauty. Tsavo, one of the largest national parks in Africa, offers rugged wilderness, while Lake Nakuru dazzles visitors with thousands of flamingos along its shores. For those craving a unique twist, Hell’s Gate allows self-drive safaris and even cycling among dramatic cliffs, while Meru and Aberdare provide secluded, lush escapes into Kenya’s less-traveled wilderness.
Beyond the national parks, Kenya is home to some of the most remarkable private conservancies and reserves, which offer exclusive safari experiences, luxury accommodations, and exceptional wildlife conservation efforts. Ol Pejeta and Lewa are renowned for rhino conservation and intimate safari drives, while Mara North, Naboisho, and Mara Explorer Conservancy provide quieter, crowd-free encounters with Kenya’s spectacular wildlife.
This Kenya National Parks Guide is your ultimate resource to discover the country’s most spectacular wildlife havens, must-do activities, and essential travel tips. Whether you’re planning a self-drive adventure, a luxury safari, or an eco-conscious getaway, this guide will help you explore Kenya’s national parks and conservancies with confidence and excitement.
Masai Mara | The Safari of a Lifetime!
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Located in the southwest of Kenya, the Masai Mara Reserve is one of the finest wildlife reserves in Africa. This area, which was merged with Serengeti National Park, is home to about 570 bird species and 95 mammal species. It offers a breathtaking view of the wildlife that is not to be missed.
Ideal Season of Year: July–October
Key Attractions: Olare Orok Conservancy, Ol Kinyei Conservancy, Mara River, Mara Triangle
Must-Do Activities: See the migration of wild animals; Jungle Safari
Accommodation facilities: Elephant Pepper Camp, Enkewa Camp, and Mara Bush Camp are some places to stay and eat.
How to Get There: The Kenyan National Reserve is located 270 kilometers from Nairobi, and it takes around 40 to 45 minutes to get there by plane or four to five hours by car.
Kenya Safari VLOG – Amboseli National Park with Beyond the Plains Kenya x Travel by Mitra
AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK
Nestled at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, the Amboseli National Park is one of Kenya’s most prominent. The park’s most famous sight is seeing hundreds of enormous elephants with large tusks. Along with this, the reserve is gifted with stunning views that may be viewed in the dark or at dawn.
Ideal Season of Year: January and February through September
Main attractions: Elephant Research Camp, Lake Amboseli, and Sinet Delta
Must-Do Activities: climb Mount Kilimanjaro, see Observation Hill, and interact with the Masai Tribe
Accommodation facilities: Ol Tukai Lodge, Amboseli Serena Lodge, Kimana Lodge, and Tortilis Camp
How to Get There: The national park is conveniently located near a road. The road from Nairobi to Namanga is rather uneven, and there are potholes on the path from Namanga to Meshanani Gate. There is also a connection from Nairobi to Amboseli on this flight.
Photography Safari – SAMBURU, KENYA
SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE
The national reserve, which is located in Kenya’s Rift Valley Province, gets its name from the Samburu people, who have lived in the region for a very long time. This park, which is nearly entirely unfenced, is home to several endangered animal and bird species, including the Beisa oryx, Grevy’s zebra, and long-necked gerenuk.
Ideal Season of Year: July–October and December–March
Main attractions: Samburu, Shaba, and Buffalo Springs National Reserves are the main points of interest
Must-Do Activities: Wildlife safaris, bird watching, and Samburu culture excursions are must-do activities.
Accommodation facilities: Sarova Shaba, Samburu Serena Lodge, and Samburu Sopa Lodge
How to Get There: The national park is located at a distance of 345 kilometers from Nairobi, although the reserve is also accessible by road via Isiolo and Archer’s Post. Additionally, there are scheduled flights that link Nairobi with the national park of Samburu.
You Won’t Believe This Place Exist / Tsavo’s Most Luxurious Safari Camp
TSAVO NATIONAL PARK
One of Kenya’s oldest and largest national parks, Tsavo National Park, is nestled in a wilderness. This massive national reserve spans a vast area that includes inadequate grasslands, extinct volcanoes, and mountainous landscapes. Tsavo East National Park and Tsavo West National Park are the names of the two distinct sections of the national park.
Ideal Season of Year: January and February, June through October
Key Attractions: Agenzia Safari Vera Africa, Epiya Chapeyu Tented Safari Camp, and Tsavo East
Must-Do Activities: Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, Mzima Springs, Ngulia Hills, and Lake Jipe are must-see locations.
Accommodation facilities: Voi Wildlife Lodge, Voyager Ziwani Camp, and Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge are some places to stay and eat.
How to Get There: From Nairobi, Mombasa, and Malindi, one can take a bus or personal transportation. One of the six airstrips in the south or the thirteen airstrips in the north can be reached by chartered aircraft.
Africa’s famous national parks: Lake Nakuru ranked one of the world’s most colourful lakes
LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK
This park offers some relief from the endless sight of wild animals by taking you on a ride where you may see many bird species up close. During the peak season, Lake Nakuru, one of the best locations for a bird safari, is packed with flamingos and other endemic wildlife breeds.
Ideal Season of Year: March–June
Main attractions: Lake Nakuru, the prehistoric site of Hyrax Hill, and the Makalia Waterfall
Must-Do Activities: going on a nature safari and viewing flamingos in Lake Nakuru
Accommodation facilities: Sarova Lion Hill Lodge, Lake Nakuru Lodge
How to Get There: The park is situated 156 kilometers northwest of Nairobi. The main entrance, which is 4 kilometers from the Nakuru Town Center, provides the quickest access to the park.
Why Nairobi National Park is like no other! | Our opinion
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK
This park dubbed the “world’s wildlife capital,” is conveniently located a short drive from Nairobi’s major business sector. A beautiful blend of the organic fauna and the city scrapers towers against the backdrop of the park. This park is home to a wide variety of birds as well as an extensive array of endangered animal species, including lions, hyenas, and black rhinos.
Ideal Season of Year: June through September
Main attractions: Ivory Burning Site Museum, Galleria Mall, and Nairobi Mosque
Must-Do Activities: hiking paths at hippo pools, camping, picnics, and seeing black rhinos
Accommodation facilities: Twiga Campsite
How to Get There: The national park is ten kilometers from Nairobi’s downtown. Wilson Airport and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport are the closest airports to the national park.
The Ark Lodge : Hidden Gem In Kenya, Aberdare National Park
ABADARE NATIONAL PARK
This national park, which is perched on the edge of the Aberdare mountain ranges, was established to save the mountain’s moorland and slopes. This location is foggy and prone to regular rain due to its high altitude. Even though it’s far up, this park is home to the second-greatest herd of Black Rhinos, an endangered species. In addition, a variety of Kenyan wildlife, including African elephants, black leopards, and bongo antelope, can be seen in this area.
Ideal Season of Year: January and February, as well as June through September.
Key Attractions: Thompson Falls, Kereita Cave and Waterfall, and Soysambu Conservancy are the main attractions.
Must-Do Activities: bird watching, trout fishing, visiting the Lesatima and Kinangop peaks, and climbing to the Elephant Hills and Twin Hills.
Accommodation facilities: The Ark Lodge and Outspan Golf and Country Club
How to Get There: The Aberdare National Park is 160 kilometers away from Nairobi. On the other hand, the towns of Nyahururu and Naivasha provide convenient access points to the park.
MERU NATIONAL PARK
Located in the northeastern region of Kenya, Meru National Park is a hidden gem offering a more intimate safari experience. Known for its varied landscapes—from lush riverine forests to expansive savannahs—this park is home to elusive big cats, majestic elephants, and over 400 bird species. It provides a quieter alternative for those eager to explore Kenya’s wild beauty away from the crowds.
Ideal Season of Year: July–October
Key Attractions: Ewaso Ng’iro River, ancient baobab trees, and rare sightings of cheetahs and black rhinos
Must-Do Activities: Guided safari drives, walking safaris, and bird watching
Accommodation facilities: Meru Safari Lodge, Rhino Ridge Camp, and luxury tented camps
How to Get There: Approximately 240 kilometers from Nairobi, accessible by road or via chartered flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport

Shimba Hills National Reserve_Kenya Travel Guide_Mandhari Lodge_Mtembezi African Safaris
SHIMBA HILLS NATIONAL RESERVE
Situated along Kenya’s south coast, Shimba Hills National Reserve offers a refreshing coastal escape in our Kenya National Parks Guide. Renowned for its dense indigenous forests, rolling hills, and scenic Sheldrick Falls, this reserve provides a striking contrast to Kenya’s inland savannahs. It is a haven for wildlife and bird enthusiasts, with unique sightings such as sable antelope and elephants amid verdant landscapes.
Ideal Season of Year: November–March
Key Attractions: Sheldrick Falls, lush coastal forests, and diverse wildlife
Must-Do Activities: Nature walks, bird watching, and guided game drives
Accommodation facilities: Shimba Hill Villas and eco-friendly lodges that blend with the natural surroundings
How to Get There: Approximately 320 kilometers from Nairobi, accessible by road or via a combination of a short flight to Mombasa followed by a drive to the reserve

Hell’s Gate National Park Tours_Mtembezi African Safaris_Kenya Travel Guide
HELL’S GATE NATIONAL PARK
Located in the heart of the Great Rift Valley, Hell’s Gate National Park is famed for its dramatic, rugged landscapes and unique geothermal features. The park features towering rock formations, deep gorges, and bubbling hot springs, making it a playground for adventure seekers. It’s an essential stop in our Kenya National Parks Guide for those who enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and cycling through nature’s raw beauty.
Ideal Season of Year: March–June; September–November
Key Attractions: Hell’s Gate Gorge, geothermal hot springs, Fischer’s Tower, and expansive Rift Valley vistas
Must-Do Activities: Hiking, rock climbing, cycling, and wildlife spotting
Accommodation facilities: Hell’s Gate Lodge and various guesthouses in nearby Naivasha
How to Get There: Approximately 90 kilometers from Nairobi, easily accessible by car or bus along the Nairobi–Naivasha route
OL PEJETA CONSERVANCY
Located in the foothills of Kenya’s Aberdare Range in Laikipia County, Ol Pejeta Conservancy is one of Kenya’s premier private wildlife sanctuaries. Renowned for its pioneering conservation efforts—especially for protecting endangered black rhinos and housing a dedicated chimpanzee sanctuary—Ol Pejeta offers an immersive wildlife experience.
Ideal Season of Year: Year-round, with peak wildlife viewing from June to October
Key Attractions: Big Five encounters, chimpanzee sanctuary, rhino conservation projects
Must-Do Activities: Guided game drives, walking safaris, and community visits
Accommodation facilities: Ol Pejeta Wilderness Camp, luxury tented camps, and eco-friendly lodges
How to Get There: Approximately 200 kilometers from Nairobi, accessible via road from Nanyuki or by private charter flights
LEWA WILDLIFE CONSERVANCY
Situated in northern Kenya, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is celebrated for its innovative conservation practices and stunning landscapes. This private conservancy is a cornerstone of our Kenya National Parks Guide, offering remarkable opportunities to see rare species and participate in community-led conservation efforts.
Ideal Season of Year: Best from July to October
Key Attractions: Rhino conservation, Grevy’s zebra sightings, and a diverse range of birdlife
Must-Do Activities: Game drives, community tours, and guided nature walks
Accommodation facilities: Lewa Wilderness Lodge and luxury tented camps
How to Get There: Approximately 220 kilometers from Nairobi, best accessed via road from Isiolo or through chartered flights
MARA NORTH CONSERVANCY
Located adjacent to the renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve, Mara North Conservancy offers an exclusive and intimate safari experience. As featured in our Kenya National Parks Guide, this conservancy combines unspoiled landscapes with close-up wildlife encounters and authentic cultural interactions with local Maasai communities.
Ideal Season of Year: July to October, during the great migration
Key Attractions: Pristine landscapes, intimate wildlife encounters, and cultural immersion
Must-Do Activities: Private game drives, walking safaris, and sunset viewing over the Mara plains
Accommodation facilities: Luxury tented camps and exclusive lodges
How to Get There: Located in the Maasai Mara region, accessible by road from Narok, with scheduled flights from Nairobi available
MARA EXPLORER CONSERVANCY
Also nestled within the Maasai Mara region, Mara Explorer Conservancy is known for its commitment to low-impact tourism and preserving untouched natural beauty. This conservancy is a great addition to your Kenya National Parks Guide for travelers seeking an authentic and serene safari adventure.
Ideal Season of Year: Best visited from July to October
Key Attractions: Iconic Mara river crossings, close-up wildlife encounters, and unspoiled wilderness
Must-Do Activities: Game drives, cultural tours, and photographic safaris
Accommodation facilities: Boutique lodges and eco-friendly tented camps
How to Get There: Easily reached from Nairobi by road via Narok, with options for chartered flights to local airstrips
NABOISHO CONSERVANCY
Located in northern Kenya, Naboisho Conservancy offers a luxury safari experience underpinned by strong conservation ethics. Featured in our Kenya National Parks Guide, this conservancy is ideal for those who seek a blend of exclusive wildlife encounters and sustainable tourism.
Ideal Season of Year: Best during the dry season from July to October
Key Attractions: Secluded wildlife sightings, sustainable tourism initiatives, and breathtaking scenic landscapes
Must-Do Activities: Exclusive game drives, bush walks, and conservation talks
Accommodation facilities: Luxury tented camps and boutique lodges
How to Get There: Accessible from Nairobi via a scenic drive, with chartered flight options available from regional airports
Supporting Community Conservancies in Kenya to Survive and Adapt to COVID-19 Crisis
Self-driving is a popular way to explore Kenya’s wild landscapes, but it’s important to note that not all parks and conservancies are equally suited for a self-drive adventure. Here’s a quick rundown:
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Self-Drive Friendly:
Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo, Lake Nakuru, Nairobi National Park, and Hell’s Gate generally allow self-driving. These parks have well-established roads (though some can be rough) and clear guidelines for self-drive safaris. Hell’s Gate, in particular, is famous for its self-drive and cycling experiences. -
Caution or Guided Only:
Meru National Park can be self-driven, but its roads are often unpaved and challenging, so it’s best suited for experienced drivers with a proper 4×4.
Many private conservancies like Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Mara North Conservancy, Mara Explorer Conservancy, and Naboisho Conservancy typically require visitors to join guided tours. Their rules are often designed to protect sensitive habitats and ensure a high-quality experience for guests, which means self-drive options might be restricted or require special arrangements.
Tip: Always check with our travel agents for specific park or conservancy beforehand regarding self-drive policies, required permits, and road conditions. This way, you can plan accordingly and ensure a safe, enjoyable safari experience.