A locals guide for first time visitors + planning tips
When you think of Kenya, chances are safari adventures come to mind and you’re spot on. Kenya is one of the top wildlife destinations in Africa, offering unforgettable experiences in world renowned parks like the Masai Mara, Amboseli and Tsavo. But planning your first Kenya safari can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’m here—your local digital guide—to walk you through the top 10 safari parks in Kenya and share expert tips to help you build your dream itinerary.
Essential safari planning tips worth noting:
- Kenya is big—really huge! Trying to visit all the national parks in one trip isn’t just unrealistic, it might even make your experience feel rushed or repetitive.
- Location matters. Choose safari parks and conservancies that are close to each other to minimize travel time and maximize your time in the wild.
- Every park is unique. From the Big Five thrills in the Maasai Mara to the epic views of Amboseli’s elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background, each destination has something special to offer.
- Safari style matters. Are you chasing the Big Five or looking for a more active experience? If it’s the Big Five on your bucket list, stick to the classic circuit of Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Nairobi National Park. If you’re after more adventurous activities like walking or cycling safaris, then head to Hells Gate or Lake Naivasha.
- Beach+Safari. Yes, you can have it all a safari that ends at the pristine beaches of the coastal kenya. Amboseli and Tsavo East National Parks are amazing safari options. Located east of Nairobi, they not only offer stunning landscapes and excellent wildlife viewing, but they also bring you closer to coastal gems like Mombasa, Diani Beach, Kilifi and watamu.
10 best national safari parks in kenya
While kenya has more than 10 safari parks, its advisable to combine a few to avoid safari hangover, pick ones that meet your travel needs, budget and close proximity.
1. Masai Mara National Reserve
Best time to visit: July–October (The Great Migration)
Travel style: Classic Big Five safari, photographers, first-time visitors
Why go: Masai Mara is the most famous safari destination in Kenya and a must visit for first time travelers. It’s home to the Great Wildebeest Migration and classic game drives across the savannahs. Ideal for both luxury and mid-range safari lodges. This iconic game reserve extends to Tanzania as Serengeti National Reserve.
2. Amboseli National Park
Best time to visit: June–October, January–February
Travel style: Wildlife lovers, couples, photographers
Why go: Known for its large herds of elephants and postcard-perfect views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Amboseli is perfect for scenic safaris and offers unforgettable photos. A great stopover for those heading to or from Kenya’s coast.
3. Lake Nakuru National Park
Best time to visit: June–March
Travel style: Birdwatchers, short-trip travelers, families
Why go: Famous for its pink flamingo filled lake and rhino sanctuary, this compact park is perfect for travelers with limited time. Easily accessible from Nairobi, it makes for a great weekend or day trip.
4. Tsavo East National Park
Best time to visit: June–October, January–February
Travel style: Road trippers, off-the-beaten-path explorers
Why go: As Kenya’s largest national park, Tsavo East is a great option for travelers looking for less crowded safari experiences. Expect red elephants, wild terrain, and rich biodiversity. A great connection between Nairobi and the coastal towns.
5. Tsavo West National Park
Best time to visit: June–October
Travel style: Adventurers, couples, photographers
Why go: More scenic and lush with highlights like Mzima Springs, Shetani Lava Flow and rolling hills. It’s a stunning park to combine with Amboseli or as part of a longer Kenya safari circuit.
6. Samburu National Reserve
Best time to visit: June–October, December–March
Travel style: Experienced safari-goers, photographers, culture seekers
Why go: This northern reserve is home to unique wildlife species “samburu six” like the Grevy’s zebra, black leopards, reticulated giraffe, ostriches, rare hyenas and gerenuk. It’s also culturally rich, with opportunities to visit local Samburu communities. Less crowded, offering a more intimate safari experience.
7. Nairobi National Park
Best time to visit: Year-round
Travel style: City break travelers, short stay safari, families
Why go: Just a 20-minute drive from the city center, it’s the only national park in the world located within a capital city. Spot lions, giraffes, rhinos and zebras with Nairobi’s skyline in the background. Ideal for layovers and short visits.
8. Hell’s Gate National Park
Best time to visit: June–March
Travel style: Hikers, cyclists, outdoor enthusiasts
Why go: One of Kenya’s most unique parks, no dangerous predators so you can walk, hike or cycle among zebras, gazelles, and giraffes. Includes gorges, hot springs for healing and rejuvenating swimming, and stunning geothermal scenery.
9. Lake Naivasha
Best time to visit: June–March
Travel style: Nature lovers, relaxed travelers, couples
Why go: A peaceful escape known for boat safaris with hippos and vibrant birdlife.Interact freely with zebras, wildebeests, giraffes and other harmless animals at the crescent island. Great for slow travel, picnics and combining with Hell’s Gate or Crater Lake. Easily reachable from Nairobi.
10. Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Best time to visit: June–October
Travel style: Conservation-focused travelers, Big Five seekers
Why go: A private conservancy known for its cutting-edge conservation efforts. Home to the last two northern white rhinos and the Big Five, plus a chimpanzee sanctuary. Fewer crowds and incredible up-close experiences.
A Quick guide to Kenya top rated safari national parks
| Park Name | Location | Distance from Nairobi | Best For | Combine With |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Masai Mara | Narok County | 6 hrs road / 45 min air | Big Five, wildlife photography | Lake Nakuru, Nairobi NP |
| Amboseli | Kajiado County | 4 hrs road / 40 min air | Scenic safaris, elephants | Tsavo East, Kenya Coast |
| Lake Nakuru | Nakuru County | 3 hrs road | Flamingos, short trips | Masai Mara, Lake Naivasha |
| Tsavo East | Taita-Taveta | 6 hrs road / 1 hr air | Offbeat safaris, road trips | Tsavo West, Amboseli |
| Tsavo West | Taita-Taveta | 5 hrs road / 1 hr air | Landscapes, hippos, lava flows | Tsavo East, Amboseli |
| Samburu | Samburu County | 6 hrs road / 1 hr air | Unique wildlife, culture | Ol Pejeta, Laikipia |
| Nairobi NP | Nairobi County | 30 min from CBD | City layovers, short safaris | Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru |
| Hell’s Gate | Nakuru County | 2 hrs road | Cycling, hiking, geothermal sights | Lake Naivasha |
| Lake Naivasha | Nakuru County | 1.5–2 hrs road | Boat rides, nature escapes | Hell’s Gate, Nakuru |
| Ol Pejeta | Laikipia County | 4 hrs road / 45 min air | Conservation, rhinos, Big Five | Samburu, Laikipia Plateau |
African Travel planner and Consultant
At Go Afrika, I help you plan unforgettable, stress-free safaris across Kenya — from hidden gems to iconic parks. As a Kenyan based in Poland, I bring you the best of both worlds: insider knowledge, personalized travel planning and honest advice from someone who knows the land, the people and the real experience.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, I’ll guide you through choosing the best safari parks, planning the perfect route and connecting you with reliable local guides — all within your budget.
Ready to create your dream Kenyan safari? Email me or Whatsapp me — your adventure starts with Go Afrika.
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