The diversity of game in Kenya is simply astounding. From the big five to the small five, Kenya’s game parks, reserves and other wildlife protection areas host some of the wildest game thus the reason why this is home for the safari. Dotted in their unique landscapes, geographical features, a vast array of game ensues. The icing on Kenya’s wildlife cake is the annual Wildebeest Migration at the infamous Maasai Mara migration between mid-August and late October. This is the best example of wild nature at its best as hundreds of thousands of wildebeests, zebras, Thomson’s gazelles, topi and elands.

#1 Maasai Mara Balloon Safaris

For a truly unique perspective on this spectacular wilderness, dawn Balloon safaris, carried out daily from several lodges, can be booked through most Safari companies. This incredible once in a lifetime experience offers the visitor a fantastic view of the great plains of the Mara and the chance to drift unobtrusively over the great herds below.

#2 Walking Safaris

A privately escorted foot safari in Kenya is the best way to really experience the African bush at its best. Walking through the wild allows you to explore the Kenyan wildness at its most pure. As you track big game, you become aware of every sight and sound, the smell of the earth and the touch of the wind.

#3 Camel Safaris

Camel Safaris are becoming an increasingly popular way to explore Kenya’s wilderness. The camel is perfectly adapted to this landscape and is widely used throughout Northern Kenya. Camels with saddles are usually used. Gifted local guides, for whom a camel train through the wilderness is a way of life accompany groups and introduce them to the bush and the local wildlife. A camel safari in Kenya is a once in a lifetime experience, riding through the bush with only the sounds of the wild and the soft tinkling of the camel bells, you will find yourself travelling at a relaxed pace, moving through the wild in tune with the rhythms of nature.

#4 Dhow Safaris

A day spent at sea on a Dhow Safari is a wonderful experience and a fantastic way to explore Kenya’s pristine coastline

#5 Helicopter Safaris

For those with larger travel budgets who wish to cover plenty of ground on their safari, charter helicopters are available. A helicopter is a perfect way to access remote areas quickly and easily, without need for landing strips or clearances. Some of the ranches in Laikipia can arrange ‘heli-camping’ in which a helicopter is used to transport guests to remote destinations where a luxury camp awaits. This is also an out of this world way to see the local landscapes and wildlife.

#6 Elephant Watching in Amboseli

Some of Amboseli’s lodges and camps can arrange for special elephant focused game drives with a highly qualified guide. The “Elephant Watching” trips will introduce you to a single herd, individual by individual. The morning or afternoon is then spent in their company, watching the interactions between the herd members. This is an excellent opportunity to do some intensive game viewing, and learn more about these highly intelligent, highly social creatures.

#7 Kenya Snake Safari

The snake safaris are a real adventure, visiting some of Kenya’s best wildlife regions, and incorporate game viewing, bush walking, river rafting and visiting remote villages and sacred sites. This safari should not be missed by anyone looking for a real African adventure. Day trips to find snakes in the Watamu region are also possible. 

#8 See The Migration in Mara

The annual Wildebeest Migration at the Maasai Mara is a natural cycle that replenishes and renews the grasslands of East Africa. This is one of the remarkable wildlife attractions that make’s Kenya one of the best wildlife destinations in the world. Kenya’s most popular attraction, the Mara was awarded its title for its sheer volume and variety of game. The migration experience in Kenya is the total sensory experience holiday. Your senses are constantly stimulated by the sights, smells and sounds of the Mara and its many inhabitants. The thrill of leaving camp at dawn, in search of big cats is an experience that is difficult to repeat. The sound of the approaching herds is a deep, primal rumbling of thundering hooves and low grunts.

#9 Birding

The variety of birds in Kenya is made possible by the favorable climate, diverse habitats and geographical features that make it a suitable migratory route for birds. Even without venturing outside Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, more than 600 resident and migratory bird species are found; more than in any other capital city, and more than in most countries. Bird watching is good all year round in Kenya. To see Kenya’s rarest, indigenous and unfortunately endangered birds, the bird enthusiast needs to seek out forests or highland grasslands tucked away amongst various farmlands. Arabuko-Sokoke Forest near Malindi, tops the list, with the six threatened bird species of the Sokoke Scops Owl, Sokoke Pipit, Spotted Ground Thrush, East Coast Akalat, Amani Sunbird and Clarke’s Weaver.

(Content & Images source: Magical Kenya) 

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