Wildlife Safaris and Bird Watching in Kenya

Kenya is one of Africa’s top destinations for game safaris and wildlife tours, attracting thousands of visitors every year. With over 20 national parks and reserves, travelers can spot the famous “Big Five” — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo — along with many other species.

The Masai Mara National Reserve is the most popular park, especially between July and October when the Great Wildebeest Migration takes place. Other top safari spots include Tsavo East and West, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Samburu, Buffalo Springs, Shaba, and Lake Naivasha.

Park entry fees range from $40 (Nairobi National Park) to $60 (Masai Mara and Amboseli). Beyond game drives, visitors can enjoy hot air balloon rides, nature walks, night safaris, and cultural experiences, though these come at an extra cost.

The best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry season from late June to October.

Kenya is also a bird watcher’s paradise, with over 1,100 bird species, including many endemic and rare species. Top birding spots include Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Amboseli, Bogoria, Arabuko-Sokoke, and Kakamega Forest. The best birding season is September to April, when migratory birds from Europe and North Africa arrive, and local birds are in full breeding plumage.