The Masai Mara Reserve is the most popular and visited wildlife park in Kenya. From July - October you can witness the incredible migration of millions of wildebeest which is the 'new world wonder'. The Maasai tribesmen also offer cultural tours which really add to the experience. The Mara showcases big families of elephants, buffaloes, zebra, lions, and hippos among many more.
Mount Kenya is Africa's second highest peak and provided the inspiration for Kenya's modern name. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and the seat of the Kikuyu God, Ngai. The Reserve is home to rare species of animals as well as spectacular lakes, mineral springs, and forests. The mountain is an incredibly important watershed, providing water for about 50% of Kenya’s population and producing 70% of Kenya’s hydroelectric power.
Amboseli is a popular park with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro (in Tanzania). The park is centered around Observation Hill, which offers great views of the plains below. The Maasai live around the park and other than their cattle, Amboseli is home to more than 50 species of mammal and over 400 species of bird. You can see elephant, hippo, cheetah, leopard and more. There’s nothing better than seeing giant elephants with the majestic mountain on the horizon.
Tsavo National Park is split into Tsavo East and Tsavo West. Tsavo is about 22,000 square kilometers, and it is one of the largest parks in the word. It is divided into two by a railway from Mombasa to other parts of the country. The national park is beautiful with large open plains and some of the features include Mzima springs, swamps and Lake Jipe. Some of the animals to spot are birds, elephants, hippos and leopards among others.
Aberdare National Park is as famous for its lovely waterfalls as its rare species of rhino, black leopard, and bongo antelope. The regular rains keep the park green year round and the temperatures cool, perfect for hiking. This area is very cold but what makes it beautiful is the vastness of the ranges and the beautiful waterfalls. This area is in the highland region it is one of the places in Kenya to go for panoramic views.
This national park is known as the cradle of mankind and is on the shores of Lake Turkana. Archaeologists have rendered this place very useful because it is where the most important fossils in the continent were discovered. Some of the animals to see are crocodiles, striped hyenas and kudu. Sibiloi is home to important archaeological sites including Koobi Fora. The area is characterized by semi-desert habitat and open plains flanked by volcanic formation including Mount Sibiloi
The Chalbi Desert is in Marsabit County, East of Lake Turkana, and it is not talked or written about enough. Traverse the bleached soils and walk on coarse sand and rocks. The desert is so salty that animals use it as a naturally occurring saltlick. There is an oasis in this desert called Kalacha where travelers, animals, and pastoralists go to quench their thirst under the palm and acacia trees.
Lake Victoria has countless islands, but only a few have been documented. Takawiri is one such island that has white sandy beaches and cool breezes from the palm trees. A boat takes about one hour from Rusinga to Takawiri. It is a beautiful island to spend a weekend in.
Samatian Island is a private island on Lake Baringo, and it is such a beautiful place to have a getaway. The Laikipia Escarpment also lies behind, making a pleasant backdrop. What makes this place incredible is how hidden it is and the breathtaking sunsets. There are also beautiful birds and different fish species.
The Brandy Bus is an old school bus that has been revamped, and it makes a great Airbnb listing. It is in Karen, Nairobi and it is a perfect place to recharge after the weekday grind. It has two double beds upstairs and small beds downstairs, and there is an outdoor fireplace. If you are not scared, rent the place and spend a night alone.