Best Kenya safaris

From the incredible landscapes, cultures and wildlife of the majestic Maasai Mara, to the serene, off-the-beaten track wonders of Shimba Hills National Reserve in the coastal region, here we present some of the best safaris in Kenya.

What are the best Kenya safaris?

Kenya is one of the most iconic safari destinations in the world, famed for its diverse landscapes, wildlife and deep-rooted conservation culture. 

From the open savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the snow-capped backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, Kenya's national parks offer unmatched opportunities to see the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) and participate in world-class wildlife viewing experiences. 

The Great Migration, endemic species, luxury lodges, and community-run conservancies all make Kenya a standout for both first-time and seasoned safari-goers.

So, read on for a run-down on of the best safaris in Kenya as we cover the top reserves to consider including in your Kenya itinerary, many of which are among the best places to visit in Kenya.

Planning to take a trip to Kenya? Browse our customisable Kenya itineraries before talking to our local experts to kick-start curating your dream safari experience.

1. Safaris in Maasai Mara National Reserve

Renowned for the Great Migration that sees millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other animals migrate here from the Serengeti in Tanzania, the Maasai Mara National Reserve also offers opportunities to see the Big Five. Namely, lion, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and rhinos.

And all this against an iconic East African safari backdrop of rolling grasslands and riverine forests.

Alongside enjoying a few private games drives at different times of the day, make your Maasai Mara experience all the more special — and memorable — through taking advantage of some rather unique excursions.

For example you could take a helicopter or small plane flight over the Maasai Mara to get a bird’s-eye view of the landscape. 

Such flights can access more remote and less-visited areas, making for a unique perspective and more exclusive experience.

In addition, you could participate in behind-the-scenes conservation activities, such as tracking collared animals, learning about anti-poaching efforts, or visiting research projects. 

Lastly, don't miss the change to visit a traditional Maasai village to learn about the customs, traditions, and daily life of the Maasai people. 

All that considered, it's clear why Maasai Mara is a great place to visit when traveling with Kenya with kids.

How to get to Maasai Mara National Reserve

The fastest way is via domestic flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to one of several airstrips in the Mara (e.g., Keekorok, Ol Kiombo, Musiara). The flight takes about 45–60 minutes and offers scenic aerial views.

By road, it's a 5–6 hour drive from Nairobi via Narok town. 4WD vehicles are recommended.

When to visit Maasai Mara National Reserve

Visit from July to October for the Great Migration, when millions of wildebeest and zebras cross from Tanzania’s Serengeti.

Avoid March to May, the long rainy season, when roads may be muddy and some camps close.

Wise up on the best time to go on a Kenya safari so you don’t miss what’s top of your wildlife list, and discover when to go to Kenya for all vacation types.

2. Safaris in Amboseli National Park

Known for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and large elephant herds, Amboseli National Park is also home to huge numbers of zebras, cheetahs, and hundreds of bird species.

In addition to going on private game drives, special experiences around these parts include enjoying picnic lunches with views of Kilimanjaro, and sipping sundowner cocktails in the bush. 

You could also take a scenic flight over Amboseli National Park for breath-taking aerial views of the landscape, including iconic Mount Kilimanjaro and huge herds of elephants, or else enjoy a hot air balloon safari.

How to get to Amboseli National Park

Fly from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Amboseli Airstrip — the 40–50 minute flight serves spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

By road, it's a 4–5 hour drive from Nairobi via Namanga or Emali. 

When to visit Amboseli National Park

 The June to October dry season is best for clear views of Mount Kilimanjaro and excellent wildlife sightings.

January to February are also good for elephant encounters.

Want more transport context? Read up on getting to Kenya, and getting around Kenya. 

3. Safaris in the Laikipia Plateau

Located in northern Kenya, the Laikipia Plateau is a series of private conservancies that roughly total the size of Wales. 

Sitting in the shadows of Mount Kenya, the landscape serves a stunning mosaic of rolling hills, grasslands, and wooded river banks.

Home to the Big Five, wildlife thrives here. It's also a place that sees conservation and community development work hand in hand, especially when it comes to protecting endangered species like black rhinos, wild dogs and Grevy's zebras. 

In fact, it’s home to the biggest rhino sanctuary in East Africa — Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

The Laikipia Plateau is also a great place for fishing expeditions, mountain biking trips, and to get hands on with conservation activities.

How to get to the Laikipia Plateau

Fly from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Nanyuki Airstrip (approx. 1 hour), then transfer by road to lodges or conservancies like Ol Pejeta or Lewa.

By road, drive from Nairobi to Nanyuki or surrounding conservancies — it'll take about 4–5 hours via the A2 highway. 

When to visit the Laikipia Plateau

Again, June to October is best for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities, with December to March coming out as second best.

Not sure how to start planning your trip? Browse our Kenya itineraries for inspiration.

4. Safaris in the Tsavo National Parks

Covering 20,812 square kilometres of dry bush country, the combined area of Tsavo West and Tsavo East national parks makes it by far the biggest wildlife reserve in Kenya. 

For context, it’s two-and-a-half times bigger than Yellowstone National Park.

With the Galana River cutting through Tsavo East and the Mzima Springs in Tsavo West, the semi-arid bushland landscapes are home to huge herds of elephants, lions, and Tsavo lions, which are famous for their lack of manes.

Both parks offer opportunities to enjoy game drives and dining under the clear, star-lit sky.

We especially rate going on dusk and night-time game drives to spot creatures that are more active after dark, among them leopards, hyenas, aardvarks, and nocturnal birds.

Meanwhile, Mzima Springs, known for its crystal-clear waters and underwater viewing chamber where you can see hippos and crocodiles, is another highlight.

How to get to the Tsavo National Parks

From Nairobi, it takes around 4–5 hours to drive to the Tsavo National Parks, and around 3-4 hours from Mombasa, via the  Mombasa–Nairobi Highway (A109). 

Both parks have multiple entrance gates.

Daily charter or scheduled flights are also available from Nairobi or Mombasa to airstrips within both parks.

When to visit the Tsavo National Parks

The June to October and January to February dry seasons are better for wildlife spotting, and also ofter better road conditions.

Wondering where to stay? Wise up on the the best safari lodges in Kenya and Kenya accommodation.

5. Safaris in Shimba Hills National Reserve

Located in the coastal region of Kenya, Shimba Hills National Reserve offers a serene safari experience. 

Known for its rolling hills, rich biodiversity, and stunning views, we can personally vouch for the fact that it’s a fantastic destination for those looking to enjoy a little luxury in nature.

While in the reserve, you might get to see the rare sable antelope, elephants, giraffes, and numerous bird species. 

If that wasn't enuogh, Shimba Hills’ proximity to the coast also makes it easy to combine your visit with a beach break. 

For example, you could spend time around the Diani Beach on the south coast  — think white-sand beaches backed by palm trees and fronted by clear-blue Indian Ocean.

On that subject, read up on ten things to do in Kenya after your safari, and the best beaches in Kenya.

How to get to Shimba Hills National Reserve

Just 33 km from Mombasa and 15 km from Diani Beach,  Shimba Hills National Reserve is easily reached by car or taxi

By Air, fly into Ukunda Airstrip (near Diani Beach) from Nairobi, then drive or pre-book a transfer to the reserve.

When to visit Shimba Hills National Reserve

Visit from June to October or January to February for dry weather and better wildlife visibility.

Ready to book your Kenya safari? Our Kenya travel advice will help you plan your trip.

Not keen on planning? Contact our local Kenya travel experts to have them curate your perfect Kenya itinerary.