The 9 Tourist Circuits in Kenya & Tourism Sites in Kenya
Kenya, a jewel in the heart of East Africa, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. As a prime destination for safari worldwide, there are 9 tourist circuits in Kenya.
Each circuit in this East African country is distinct in its charm and offers a range of unforgettable experiences. These can range from wildlife places like Maasai Mara to museums like Karen Blixen Museum to lakes like Lake Victoria and wildlife trusts like David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
In the following sections, we will embark on a journey to discover these nine tourist circuits and types of tourist attractions in Kenya.
How to Book Your Kenya Safari with Us
You can book our safari through email at james@ajkenyasafaris.com or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com. You can also call or WhatsApp us at +254-748-258-880 and speak with our professional tour consultants.
Our Most Booked Kenya Safari Packages
Our Most Booked Kenya Safari Packages 2023 | Price Per Adult Sharing | The Detailed Itinerary |
From USD 119 | ||
1-Day Nairobi National Park & Nairobi Animal Orphanage Tour | From USD 34 | |
3-Day Masai Mara Camp Packages | From USD 1015 | |
From USD 1010 | ||
3-Day Masai Mara Easter Packages | From USD 985 | |
3-Day Masai Mara Festive Packages | From USD 1315 | |
3-Day Masai Mara Lodge Safari | From USD 995 | |
3-Day Masai Mara Packages | From USD 955 | |
3-Day Masai Mara Packages from Nairobi | From USD 995 | |
3-Day Ol Pejeta Easter Safari | From USD 1175 | |
4-Day Africa Migration Masai Mara Packages | From USD 1360 | |
4-Day L. Naivasha & Masai Mara Easter Safari | From USD 1249 | |
4-Day L. Naivasha & Masai Mara Safari | From USD 1174 | |
4-Day L. Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari | From USD 1162 | |
4-Day Masai Mara Camp Packages | From USD 1195 | |
4-Day Masai Mara Easter Packages | From USD 1235 | |
4-Day Masai Mara Migration Packages | From USD 1360 | |
4-Day Mombasa & Diani Safari | From USD 937 | |
4-Day Mombasa & Diani Valentine Safari | At USD 1405 | |
5-Day Flying Safari to Masai Mara & Ol Pejeta Conservancy | From USD 3777 | |
6-Day Kenya Wildlife Safari from India | From USD 1730 | |
At USD 3093 | ||
7-Day Kenya Wildlife Safari | From USD 1884 | |
8-Day Kenya Wildlife Safari | From USD 4413 | |
8-Day Wildlife & Beach Safari | From USD 1585 | |
From USD 4216 | ||
18-Day Kenya Family Safari | From USD 5849 |
See Photos of Kenya Wildlife
The 9 Tourist Circuits in Kenya Explained
Kenya’s tourist circuits are categorized based on geographical locations and the types of attractions they offer. Each circuit has its own unique features, making it a worthwhile experience to explore. Here are the nine tourist circuits in Kenya and their top attractions:
1. Kenya Safari Circuits – Nairobi City Circuit
The Nairobi City Circuit is perfect for those who love city life and want to experience the urban side of Kenya. This circuit includes popular attractions such as the iconic Nairobi National Park, where you can spot giraffes, lions, and other wildlife just a stone’s throw away from the city center.
Other must-visit sites include the Karen Blixen Museum, Giraffe Centre, and Nairobi National Museum.
2. Kenya Safari Circuits – Central Kenya Circuit
The Central Kenya Circuit is known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This circuit includes the Aberdare National Park, Mount Kenya National Park, and Ol Pejeta Conservancy, where you can spot the critically endangered black rhinos.
For a taste of local culture, visit traditional villages in Nyeri County or attend cultural festivals like the Maralal Camel Derby in Samburu County.
3. Kenya Safari Circuit – South Rift Circuit
The South Rift Circuit boasts some of the most iconic safari destinations in Kenya, including the Maasai Mara National Reserve and Lake Nakuru National Park. Here, you can witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife events.
Other noteworthy attractions include Hell’s Gate National Park and Lake Naivasha, where you can take a boat ride and spot hippos and other wildlife.
4. Kenya Safari Circuits North Rift Circuit
The North Rift Circuit is ideal for adventure seekers, with its rugged landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities. This circuit includes the stunning Lake Turkana, also known as the “Jade Sea,” where you can visit traditional communities like the El Molo tribe.
Other top attractions include the Kerio Valley National Reserve, Mount Elgon National Park, and the Tugen Hills.
5. Kenya Tour Circuits – Western Circuit
The Western Tourist Circuit in Kenya is a hidden gem in Kenya, offering diverse wildlife and cultural experiences. This circuit includes Kakamega Forest, known for its variety of bird species and primate population.
Other must-visit sites include Ruma National Park, home to the rare roan antelope, and the bustling city of Kisumu, situated on the shores of Lake Victoria.
6. Kenya Adventure Circuits – Coast Circuit
The Coast Circuit is a paradise for beach lovers, with its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. This circuit includes popular destinations such as Mombasa, Diani Beach, and Watamu Marine National Park.
For a mix of adventure and relaxation, visit the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve, where you can go birdwatching and discover endangered wildlife such as the golden-rumped elephant shrew.
7. Kenya Safari Circuit – North Eastern Circuit
The North Eastern Circuit is perfect for those seeking a unique cultural experience. This circuit includes attractions such as the Lamu Archipelago, known for its beautiful beaches and Swahili architecture.
Other noteworthy sites include the Takwa Ruins and the Bajuni Islands, where you can learn about the rich history of this region.
8. Kenya Tour Circuits – Eastern Circuit
The Eastern Circuit is a nature lover’s paradise, with its picturesque landscapes and diverse wildlife. This circuit includes destinations such as Tsavo East and West National Parks, home to the famous “Red Elephants” and other iconic species like lions, leopards, and rhinos.
For a unique experience, visit the Chyulu Hills National Park, where you can hike through lava tunnels and spot rare species like the fringe-eared oryx.
9. Kenya Tour Circuits – Southern Circuit in Kenya
Last but not least, the Southern Circuit is a perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. This circuit includes the stunning Amboseli National Park, where you can get up close and personal with elephants against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Other must-visit sites include Tsavo West National Park, Shimba Hills National Reserve, and Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary.
Top Tourism Sites in Kenya – Best Tourist Attraction in Kenya
Kenya boasts numerous attractions that are worth visiting across the nine circuits. From unique landscapes to cultural experiences and wildlife encounters, here are some of the top tourist sites in Kenya:
Masai Mara National Reserve
The main tourist attraction in Kenya is the famous Masai Mara National Reserve. It is located in the Southern Rift Circuit, about 270 kilometers from Nairobi.
Masai Mara is known for its vast grasslands, where you can spot the “Big Five” – lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos. You can also spot other wild animals like zebras, giraffes, and wildebeests.
The national reserve is also known for its birds, with over 450 species recorded. Some of the notable names include the African pygmy falcon, white-bellied go-away bird, and African jacana.
Maasai Mara National Reserve is also the home for the Great Wildebeest Migration, where over 1.5 million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles migrate from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Masai Mara. This event happens from July to October every year, making it a popular time for tourists who come to witness the Mara River crossing.
Another thing that makes Masai Mara Game Reserve one of the best places to visit in Kenya is the accommodations. You can choose from luxury tented camps to budget-friendly lodges, all offering a unique experience in the wild. They include Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Sarova Mara Game Camp, and Keekorok Lodge.
Things to Do at Maasai Mara National Reserve
There are various activities you can do at Maasai Mara Game Reserve, including:
- Game drives: The best way to see the wildlife in Masai Mara is through game drives. You can choose from morning, afternoon, or full-day game drives with an experienced guide.
- Hot air balloon safari: For a unique experience, take a hot air balloon safari over the reserve and witness the sunrise with a bird’s eye view of the wildlife below.
- Maasai cultural experience: Visit a Maasai village and learn about their way of life, traditions, and customs. You can also purchase handcrafted souvenirs from the locals.
Amboseli National Park
One of the best places to visit in Kenya is the Amboseli National Park, located in the Southern Circuit. It is located about 240 kilometers from Kenya’s capital city and is famous for its large elephant herds.
Amboseli National Park is also home to over 50 other mammal species, including lions, cheetahs, and giraffes. It is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 species recorded.
The main attraction at Amboseli National Park is the stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. On clear days, you can witness the snow-capped mountain reflecting in the park’s swamps and lakes.
Amboseli region is known to offer some great accommodations, including luxury lodges and tented camps such as Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge, Tortilis Camp, and Satao Elerai Camp.
Things to Do at Amboseli National Park
- Elephant viewing: The park offers some of the best opportunities to see elephants up close. You can also witness their daily routines like mud bathing and social interactions.
- Nature walks: Explore the park on foot with a guide and discover smaller animals, birds, and plants that you may not see during a game drive.
- Cultural visits: Visit a Maasai village near the park and learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life. You can also purchase handcrafted souvenirs from the locals.
Lake Nakuru National Park
Located in the Rift Valley Circuit, Lake Nakuru National Park is a must-visit destination for bird lovers and is among the Great Rift Valley soda lakes. It is located about 170 kilometers from Nairobi and is famous for its pink flamingos, which can number up to millions at times.
Apart from the flamingos, Lake Nakuru National Park also boasts over 450 bird species, including pelicans, storks, and eagles. It also has a diverse range of wildlife such as rhinos, lions, leopards, and buffaloes.
The park is also known for its scenic views, with the lake surrounded by acacia trees and savannah grasslands. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a rhino sanctuary, making it an essential conservation area in Kenya.
Lake Nakuru offers various accommodations, including luxury lodges and budget-friendly camps such as Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge, Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge, and Flamingo Hill Tented Camp.
Things to Do at Lake Nakuru National Park
- Birdwatching: Take a boat ride on the lake and witness the pink flamingos in their natural habitat. You can also spot other bird species among the trees and on the shores.
- Game drives: Explore the park’s diverse wildlife with game drives that take you close to rhinos, lions, leopards, and other animals.
- Hike to Baboon Cliff: Hike to the top of Baboon Cliff and enjoy a breathtaking view of the park, lake, and beyond. You can also have a picnic while taking in the scenery.
Lake Naivasha and Crescent Island
Located in the Great Rift Valley Circuit, Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake famous for its serene ambiance and abundant birdlife. It is located about 90 kilometers from the Kenya’s capital city and is home to over 400 bird species.
One of the most unique things about Lake Naivasha is Crescent Island, a private game reserve accessible by boat. The island offers walking safaris where you can get up close to animals such as giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests.
Lake Naivasha has a variety of accommodations, including luxury lodges and budget-friendly camps such as Enashipai Resort & Spa, Sopa Lodge Naivasha, and Crater Lake Tented Camp.
Things to Do at Lake Naivasha and Crescent Island
- Boat ride: Take a boat ride on Lake Naivasha and witness the diverse birdlife, including African fish eagles, kingfishers, and herons.
- Walking safari: Explore Crescent Island on foot and get up close to animals such as giraffes, zebras, and antelopes without the barrier of a vehicle.
- Birding: With over 400 bird species, Lake Naivasha is a must-visit destination for bird lovers. You can spot various birds while walking around the lake or during a boat ride.
Hell’s Gate National Park
One of the best Kenya tourist attractions, Hell’s Gate National Park is located in Great Rift Valley Circuit. It is a small park that offers unique activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and biking and is only about 90 kilometers from Nairobi.
The park also has hot springs, gorges, and geothermal energy stations, making it an impressive tourist destination for nature lovers. It is also home to a variety of wildlife like buffaloes, zebras, and gazelles.
Hell’s Gate National Park offers various accommodations such as Olosho Ewuaso Safari Camp, Lake Elmenteita Serena Camp, and Kiboko Luxury Camp.
Things to Do at Hell’s Gate National Park
- Hiking: Explore the park on foot and hike through the gorges and rocky cliffs while spotting wildlife along the way.
- Rock climbing: For the adventure seekers, Hell’s Gate offers rock climbing opportunities with stunning views of the park and its surroundings.
- Biking: Rent a bike and explore the park on two wheels, passing by animals such as zebras and giraffes. You can also stop at viewpoints for breathtaking photos.
Mount Longonot National Park
Located in the Great Rift Valley Circuit, Mount Longonot National Park is a popular hiking destination for nature lovers. It is located about 60 kilometers from Nairobi and is famous for its dormant volcano, Mount Longonot.
Hikers can climb to the top of the mountain and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding areas and the Great Rift Valley. The park also offers a chance to spot buffaloes, antelopes, and giraffes.
The park also has a variety of birds and is an ideal destination for bird watchers. Mount Longonot National Park offers various accommodations, including luxury lodges and budget-friendly camps such as Lake Naivasha Country Club, Kiangazi House, and Camp Carnelleys.
The other thing to note about Mount Longonot and Hell’s Gate is they are not known for being a wildlife corridor like other Kenya safari circuits.
Things to Do at Mount Longonot National Park
- Hiking: Hike to the top of Mount Longonot and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Wildlife viewing: Spot a variety of wildlife such as buffaloes, antelopes, and giraffes while hiking or during a game drive.
- Birding: With over 130 bird species, Mount Longonot is a must-visit destination for bird lovers. You can spot various birds while hiking or during a game drive.
Lake Bogoria National Reserve
Located in the Great Rift Valley Circuit, Lake Bogoria National Reserve is another essential conservation area famous for its hot springs and geysers. It is located about 260 kilometers from Nairobi and is home to numerous wildlife species such as buffaloes, antelopes, and zebras.
The reserve is also known for its flamingos, which can be seen during the dry season on the lake’s shores. It is also a popular destination for bird watchers, with over 200 bird species recorded in the area.
Lake Bogoria National Reserve offers various accommodations, including budget-friendly camps such as Lake Bogoria Spa Resort and Camping Wildebeest & Travellers.
Things to Do at Lake Bogoria National Reserve
- Hot springs and geysers: Visit the hot springs and geysers in the reserve and witness their natural beauty. You can also take a relaxing dip in the hot water.
- Wildlife viewing: Explore the reserve on a game drive or walking safari and spot animals such as buffaloes, antelopes, and zebras.
- Flamingo watching: Spot the iconic pink flamingos along the shores of Lake Bogoria during the dry season.
Lake Elementaita National Reserve
Located in the Great Rift Valley Circuit, Lake Elementaita National Reserve is a small but beautiful reserve famous for its saltwater lake and abundant birdlife. It is located about 120 kilometers from Nairobi and is home to over 450 bird species.
The reserve also offers game drives where you can spot animals such as zebras, gazelles, and giraffes. It is also a popular destination for nature lovers, with stunning landscapes and views of the Great Rift Valley.
Lake Elementaita National Reserve offers various accommodations, including luxury lodges and budget-friendly camps such as Lake Elmenteita Serena Camp and Soysambu Conservancy.
Things to Do at Lake Elementaita National Reserve
- Birding: With over 450 bird species, Lake Elementaita is a paradise for bird watchers. You can spot various birds while walking around the lake or during a game drive.
- Game drives: Explore the reserve and spot animals such as zebras, gazelles, and giraffes on a game drive.
- Relaxing by the lake: Take in the serene beauty of the saltwater lake and relax by its shores. You might even spot a few flamingos or other water birds.
Samburu National Reserve
Samburu National Reserve is a must-visit destination for all wildlife enthusiasts. It is on the Northern Kenya Circuit, about 350 kilometers from Nairobi.
It is home to a variety of animals, including the Samburu Special Five – Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, beisa oryx, and gerenuk. Other wildlife include wild dogs, lions, leopards, and elephants.
You will also find a variety of birds in the reserve, making it a popular destination for bird watchers. The common ones include the vulturine guineafowl, yellow-necked spurfowl, and crested francolin.
The reserve also offers breathtaking landscapes such as hills and riverine forests. It is an ideal destination for game drives and nature walks.
Samburu National Reserve has various accommodations, including luxury lodges and budget-friendly camps such as Elephant Bedroom Camp and Ashnil Samburu Camp.
Things to Do at Samburu National Reserve
- Wildlife viewing: Explore the reserve on a game drive or walking safari and spot a variety of animals, including the Samburu Special Five.
- Birding: With over 350 bird species, Samburu National Reserve offers a fantastic opportunity for bird watchers. You can spot various birds while on a game drive or nature walk.
- Nature walks: Take a guided nature walk and explore the diverse landscapes of the reserve. You might even come across some hidden gems such as waterfalls and natural pools.
Buffalo Springs National Reserve
Buffalo Springs National Reserve is another must-visit destination on the Northern Kenya Circuit. It is located adjacent to Samburu National Reserve and shares a similar ecosystem.
The reserve is famous for its crystal-clear springs that attract a variety of wildlife such as elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes. You can also spot predators such as lions and leopards in the reserve.
It is also home to various bird species, making it a popular destination for bird watchers. Some of the common birds include the Somali ostrich, white-headed vulture, and martial eagle.
Buffalo Springs Game Reserve offers various accommodations, including luxury lodges and budget-friendly camps such as Samburu Intrepids Luxury Tented Camp and Ashnil Samburu Camp.
Things to Do at Buffalo Springs National Reserve
- Wildlife viewing: Explore the reserve on a game drive or walking safari and spot a variety of animals, including elephants, buffaloes, and predators like lions and leopards.
- Birding: With over 380 bird species, Buffalo Springs Game Reserve is a paradise for bird watchers. You can spot various birds while on a game drive or nature walk.
- Relax by the springs: Take in the tranquil atmosphere and relax by the crystal-clear springs in the reserve. You might even spot some animals coming to drink water.
Shaba National Reserve
Located in the Northern Kenya Circuit, Shaba National Reserve is a hidden gem that offers unique landscapes and wildlife. It covers an area of 239 square kilometers and is home to over 100 bird species.
The reserve is famous for its rugged terrain, with rocky outcrops and volcanic formations. It is also home to animals such as Grevy’s zebras, reticulated giraffes, and Beisa oryx.
Apart from game drives and bird watching, visitors can also engage in activities such as camel safaris and cultural visits to the local Samburu villages.
Shaba Game Reserve offers various accommodations, including luxury lodges and budget-friendly camps such as Sarova Shaba Game Lodge and Samburu Simba Lodge.
Things to Do at Shaba National Reserve
- Game drives: Explore the rugged terrain of the reserve and spot unique wildlife such as Grevy’s zebras and reticulated giraffes.
- Birding: With over 100 bird species, Shaba National Reserve offers a fantastic opportunity for bird watchers. You can spot various birds while on a game drive or nature walk.
- Camel safaris: Experience the local culture and take a camel safari through the reserve. It is a unique way to see the landscapes and wildlife of Shaba National Reserve.
Meru National Park
Meru National Park is located in the Eastern Kenya Circuit and covers an area of 870 square kilometers. The park is about 350 kilometers from Nairobi and offers a diverse range of wildlife and landscapes.
It is home to a variety of animals, including the famous Big Five – lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos. The park consists of open grasslands, forests, and riverine habitats.
Bird watching is also a popular activity in Meru National Park, with over 400 bird species recorded. Some of the common ones include the African fish eagle, vulturine guinea fowl, and martial eagle.
The park has various accommodations, including luxury lodges and budget-friendly camps such as Elsa’s Kopje and Rhino River Camp.
Things to Do at Meru National Park
- Wildlife viewing: Go on a game drive or walking safari and spot the diverse range of animals, including the Big Five.
- Birding: With over 400 bird species, Meru National Park is a paradise for bird watchers. You can spot various birds while on a game drive or nature walk.
- Visit the grave of Elsa the lioness: Meru National Park was made famous by Joy and George Adamson and their adopted lioness, Elsa. Visitors can visit her grave at the park in remembrance of her story.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Located in the Central Kenya Circuit, Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a private wildlife reserve that offers a unique safari experience. It is about 200 kilometers from the largest city in the Kenya, Nairobi. It covers an area of 364 square kilometers and is home to the Big Five.
The conservancy is famous for its conservation efforts, including being the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa and hosting the world’s last two northern white rhinos.
Apart from game drives and bird watching, visitors can also engage in activities such as guided nature walks, bush picnics, and visits to the chimpanzee sanctuary.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy offers various accommodations, including luxury lodges and budget-friendly camps such as Sweetwaters Serena Camp and Porini Rhino Camp.
Things to Do at Ol Pejeta Conservancy
- Game drives: Explore the vast landscapes and spot a variety of animals, including the Big Five.
- Bird viewing: With over 500 bird species, Ol Pejeta Conservancy offers fantastic opportunities for bird watchers. You can spot various birds while on a game drive or nature walk.
- Chimpanzee sanctuary visit: Visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary and learn about the conservation efforts of these endangered primates.
- Visit the northern white rhinos: See the world’s last two northern white rhinos at Ol Pejeta Conservancy and learn about their conservation story.
Mount Kenya National Park
One of the best tourist attractions in Kenya is the Mount Kenya National Park, located in the Central Kenya Safari Circuit. It is only about 150 kilometers from Nairobi and covers an area of 715 square kilometers.
The park is home to the second-highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kenya, which stands at 5,199 meters above sea level. Mount Kenya National Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its diverse ecosystems and unique flora and fauna.
Mt. Kenya National Park is home to different wild animals like elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rare species such as the bongo antelope. It also boasts of over 130 bird species.
The park offers some great accommodations you can stay during your Kenya safari, with all sorts of options ranging from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites. They include the likes of Serena Mountain Lodge, Naro Moru River Lodge and Sirimon Bandas.
Things to Do at Mount Kenya National Park
- Hiking and Climbing: Challenge yourself by hiking or climbing Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest mountain. It offers various routes for all levels of climbers.
- Nature Walks: Explore the park’s diverse ecosystems and spot unique flora and fauna on a guided nature walk.
- Wildlife Viewing: Go on a game drive or walking safari to see various animals, including the rare bongo antelope.
- Birding: With over 130 bird species, Mount Kenya National Park is a paradise for bird watchers.
Aberdare National Park
Located in the Central Kenya Safari Circuit, Aberdare National Park is a beautiful mountainous park with diverse landscapes and wildlife. It is located about 160 kilometers from Nairobi and covers an area of 766 square kilometers.
The park is home to the Aberdare Mountain Range, which is part of the Great Rift Valley and central highlands. It offers various habitats, including montane forests, moorlands, and bamboo thickets, making it a diverse ecosystem for wildlife.
Visitors can spot various animals such as elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and even the rare melanistic black leopard. The park also offers bird watching opportunities with over 290 bird species recorded.
Aberdare National Park has various accommodations, including luxury lodges like The Ark and budget-friendly camps such as Treetops Lodge and Fishing Lodge.
Things to Do at Aberdare National Park
- Wildlife Viewing: Go on a game drive or walking safari and spot various animals, including the rare melanistic black leopard.
- Bird viewing: With over 290 bird species recorded, Aberdare National Park is a haven for bird watchers.
- Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the park’s rivers and lakes, including Lake Victoria where you can catch rainbow trout.
- Camping: Experience the great outdoors by camping in the park and get close to nature.
Tsavo West National Park
One of the leading tourist attractions in Kenya is Tsavo National Park, dived into Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks. Tsavo West National Park is located in the Coastal Kenya Safari Circuit and covers an area of 9,065 square kilometers, making it one of the largest parks in Kenya.
It is a 233-kilometer drive to Tsavo West from Nairobi and is about 240 kilometers from Mombasa. The park is home to diverse landscapes, including mountains, savannahs, and volcanic hills.
This Tsavo National Park is known for its wildlife like the big five, including over 600 bird species. Visitors can also visit popular attractions such as Mzima Springs, Shetani Lava Flows, and Chyulu Hills.
Tsavo West offers various accommodations ranging from luxury lodges like Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge to budget-friendly camps such as Ngulia Safari Lodge.
Things to Do at Tsavo West National Park
- Game drives: Explore the vast landscapes of Tsavo West National Park and spot a variety of animals, including the big five.
- Bird viewing: With over 600 bird species, the park is a paradise for bird watchers.
- Nature Walks: Take a nature walk to Mzima Springs and enjoy beautiful scenery and spot hippos and crocodiles.
- Visit the Shetani Lava Flows: Witness the power of nature at the Shetani Lava Flows, a vast expanse of volcanic lava flows.
Tsavo East National Park
Another Tsavo National Park, Tsavo East National Park, is located in the Coastal Kenya Safari Circuit and covers an area of 13,747 square kilometers. It is larger than Tsavo West and is also a popular tourist destination.
The park is about 250 kilometers from Nairobi and only 220 kilometers from Mombasa. It is home to diverse landscapes such as savannahs, hills, and the Galana River.
Tsavo East National Park boasts of a vast array of wildlife such as lions, elephants, buffalo, and over 500 bird species. Visitors can also enjoy attractions like Lugard Falls and Mudanda Rock.
This Tsavo National Park has various accommodations for visitors to stay in during their safari, including luxury lodges like Galdessa Camp and budget-friendly options like Voi Wildlife Lodge.
Things to Do at Tsavo East National Park
- Game Drives: Explore the vast landscapes of Tsavo National Park and spot various animals such as lions, elephants, and buffaloes.
- Birding: With over 500 bird species recorded, the park is a haven for bird watchers.
- Visit Lugard Falls: Witness the beauty of Lugard Falls, a series of waterfalls along the Galana River in one of the best wildlife parks in one of the leading Kenya safari circuits.
- Hiking and Walking Safaris: Explore the park on foot and get closer to nature while spotting wildlife. You can combine your wildlife safaris to Tsavo with Chyulu Hills National Park.
Mombasa Marine National Park
Located in the Coastal Kenya Safari Circuit, Mombasa Marine National Park is a popular destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. It covers an area of 10 square kilometers and is situated along the Kenyan coast near Mombasa.
The park boasts of diverse marine life, including over 250 fish species and various coral species. Visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat rides to explore the underwater world.
Mombasa Marine National Park also has beautiful beaches where visitors can relax and enjoy the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Accommodations near the park include luxury resorts like Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa and budget-friendly options like Reef Hotel.
Things to Do at Mombasa Marine National Park & Reserve
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Explore the vibrant underwater world of Mombasa Marine National Park in the Indian Ocean and spot various marine species.
- Glass-bottom boat rides: Take a ride on a glass-bottom boat and witness the beauty of the park’s coral reefs without getting wet.
- Relax at the Beaches: Enjoy a day of relaxation at the beautiful beaches of Mombasa Marine National Park.
- Water Sports: Try out various water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing, and jet skiing in the park’s warm waters.
- Marine Life Viewing: Go on a boat tour or take a walk along the coastline to spot different marine species like dolphins and turtles.
Watamu Marine National Parks
One of the best places to visit in East Africa is Watamu Marine National Parks, located in the Coastal Kenya Safari Circuit. It is made up of three parks: Malindi and Watamu National Parks, and Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve.
The park covers an area of 229 square kilometers and boasts of diverse marine life, including over 600 fish species and various coral species. Visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and boat rides to explore the underwater world.
Watamu National Parks also has stunning beaches where visitors can relax and enjoy water sports. Accommodations near the park include luxury resorts like Hemingways Watamu and budget-friendly options like Sun Palm Beach Resort.
Things to Do at Watamu Marine National Parks
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Explore the vibrant underwater world of Marine National Parks and spot various marine species.
- Glass-bottom boat rides: Take a ride on a glass-bottom boat and witness the beauty of the park’s coral reefs without getting wet.
- Relax at the Beaches: Enjoy a day of relaxation at the beautiful beaches of Marine National Parks.
- Water Sports: Try out various water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing, and jet skiing in the park’s warm waters.
- Marine Life Viewing: Go on a boat tour or take a walk along the coastline to spot different marine species like dolphins and turtles.
- Visit Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve: Take a nature walk and spot various bird species and wildlife in this forest reserve, which is also home to the endangered golden-rumped elephant shrew.
- Visit Shimba Hills National Reserve – Located near Marine National Parks, this reserve is home to diverse wildlife such as giraffes, elephants, and the rare sable antelope.
- Explore Gede Ruins: Visit the ancient ruins of Gede, a Swahili trading village market that was abandoned in the 16th century. Learn about its history and see well-preserved structures such as mosques and houses.
- Visit Fort Jesus & Jami Mosque: Explore the historical Fort Jesus, a Portuguese fort built in the 16th century. Learn about its history and see exhibits showcasing its past as a military stronghold and prison. Jami Mosque is one of East Africa’s oldest churches located in the second largest city in Kenya, Mombasa.
Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park is one of the best places to visit in Kenya and is situated only a few kilometers from the capital city of Nairobi. It is one of the smallest national parks in Kenya, covering an area of 117 square kilometers.
Nairobi National Park has diverse wildlife, including lions, leopards, and black rhinos. The park is also a great place for bird watching, with over 400 recorded species. Visitors can enjoy activities such as game drives, walking safaris, picnics, and visit David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
Accommodations near the Nairobi National Park include luxury lodges like Emakoko and budget-friendly options like Nairobi Tented Camp.
Things to Do and Places to Visit in Nairobi
In addition to Nairobi National Park, there are many places to visit during your safari in the Kenya’s capital city, once called British East Africa, such as:
- Giraffe Centre: Visit the Giraffe Centre and interact with endangered Rothschild’s giraffes. You can even feed them from a raised platform.
- David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: Learn about the conservation efforts for orphaned elephants and rhinos at David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is also home to other rescued animals, including warthogs and antelopes.
- Nairobi National Museums: Discover Kenya’s rich cultural and natural heritage at the Nairobi National Museums, which includes the National Museum of Kenya, Snake Park, and Botanical Gardens.
- Nairobi Safari Walk: Explore the park on foot and see different wildlife species such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, and various bird species at Nairobi Safari Walk.
- Karen Blixen Museum: Karen Blixen Museum is the former home of Danish author Karen Blixen, now turned into a museum. Learn about her life in Kenya and see original artifacts at the museum.
- Nairobi National Park Nature Trail: Take a guided nature walk along the park’s trails and learn about different plants and wildlife.
- Maasai Market: Visit the Maasai Market, a popular market where you can buy traditional African handcrafted items such as jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs.
- Village Market: Shop, dine, and watch a movie at the Village Market, one of East Africa’s largest shopping centers.
- Nairobi National Park Education Centre: Take a tour of the education center and learn about conservation efforts for endangered species like black rhinos.
- Bomas of Kenya: Visit Bomas of Kenya to experience Kenyan culture through traditional dances, music performances, and homesteads representing different ethnic groups.
- Uhuru Gardens: Spend a day at Uhuru Gardens, the largest memorial park in Kenya that honors the country’s independence heroes.