Kenya National Parks & Game Reserves

Kenya National Parks & Game Reserves

Aberdare National Park

This fairy park comprises of cascading waterfalls, bamboo forests and sub-alpine plants. The thick forest area is rich in wildlife: bongo, impala, waterbuck, elephant and the spectacular colobus monkeys all have their home here. Typically, visitors to this park will have lunch at a nearby base hotel before proceeding for an overnight stay at one of the treehotels. Built on high elevation overlooking a floodlit waterhole and salt lick, the treehotel provides an undisputed 'royal box' above this pageant of African wildlife. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

IPS Notes: Only an overnight bag is permitted at the treehotel; the remainder of your luggage is placed in storage at the base hotel. Some rooms have shared bathrooms. Minimum ages for children range from 7 to 10 years -- check when booking.

Amboseli National Park

The Amboseli National Park is one of the regions most photogenic parks. Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain at over 19,300 feet, dominates the park. By comparison, the mountain's second tallest peak, Mawenzi at just under 16,900 feet, is higher than most peaks in the lower United States. Amboseli is also home to large herds of elephant which is intriguing since the vegetation in most of the park is delicate and sparse. Human and wildlife here is sustained by the melted snows of Kilimanjaro feeding the marshlands and swamp grounds through subterranean springs. Due to the daytime heat, reflection off the light soil, and evaporation across the plains, game-viewing drives can be quite tricky and it is sometimes difficult to distinguish between real wildlife and mirages. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Central Island National Park

Now designated as a 'World Heritage Site', this island is reached by approx. 20-40 minute boat ride from the western shores of Lake Turkana. The island was formed as a result of volcanic activity and encompasses three crater lakes which over the years have been home to different forms of life as their names suggest: Crocodile Lake, Flamingo Lake and Tilapia Lake. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

* the above facilities will shortly be placed under the management of Ivory Safaris Tours (1975) Ltd.

Karen

On the outskirts of Nairobi, this area is named after Karen Blixen, author of 'Out of Africa'. Visits typically encompass the Karen Blixen Museum furnished mostly with her original items; a stop at the Utamaduni craft shopping place, a ceramic jewelry workshop and finally a stop a the Giraffe Manor. At this research center, visitors are permitted to feed the giraffes and enjoy an informal chat with the caretakers. [IPS]

Lake Baringo and Lake Bogoria National Reserve

Both lakes are situated within close proximity in the Rift Valley and offer an extraordinary variety of birdlife. Lake Bogoria's shoreline is dotted with steam jets, boiling geysers and fumaroles- a clear reminder of the earth's underground activities. Lesser pink flamingoes inhabit the lake fringes along with the rare Greater Kudu. Lake Baringo also nestles close to the Rift Valley's eastern wall and is home to crocodiles and hippopotami. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Lake Nakuru National Park

Popularly known as the 'Home of a million Flamingoes', the Kenya Wildlife rangers keep close vigil over its rhino population, most of whom were translocated from other game parks. The lake drains water by evaporation alone, which maintains its alkalinity and accounts for a delicately balanced ecosystem supporting one of the greatest ornithological spectacles on earth. The bird population varies according to water levels. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Lake Naivasha

Situated in the shadow of Mount Longonot, this 'sunshine' lake is a favorite stopover enroute to the Masai Mara. The lake has been described as a 'bewilderment of birds' with a population of up to 400 different species. At nearby Hell's Gate, the rare Lammergeyer, Nyanza swift and Verreaux's eagle may be spotted. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Lamu

Lamu Island represents the cradle of Swahili culture in Kenya: this tiny enclave boasts the purest Swahili spoken along the coastline. The Muslim tradition demands the discreet dress code for visitors and it is likely that the muezzin call to prayers will awaken you briefly in the early morning hours. Explore the town's historic past where Lamu's carved doors rival those of Zanzibar, and transport is by donkey cart or dhow. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Masai Mara National Reserve

The Maasai Mara is the Jewel in Kenya's wildlife scenario, and offers the possibility of seeing "the big five" and many other species of game. The Reserve is most famous for it Animal Migration where annually herds of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle become part of a massive movement of wildlife from one part of the Mara/Serengeti eco system, to another. This northern extension of the Serengeti is bisected by the Mara river, bordered by luxurious riverine forest. The region's choice of accommodation includes lodges as well as renowned luxury tented camps. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Mombasa

Kenya's second largest town of Mombasa is situated on an island, and has a recorded history stretching back nearly 2000 years and was mentioned in the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea, a pilot's guide to the Indian Ocean written by one Diogenes, a Greek living in Egypt in the end of the first century AD. Fringing the dhow harbor is Old Town, a maze of narrow streets and pedestrian lanes with quaint shuttered houses and open fronted shops. The smell of spices is always present. Dominating the entrance to the harbor is Fort Jesus, open to visitors, which houses an interesting museum displaying antiquities from the length of the Kenya coast. There are two major beaches North and South of Mombasa Island which feature vast uninterrupted stretches of powder white sand, lapped by the azure Indian Ocean and protected by a coral reef. [IPS]

Mount Kenya National Park

The Kikuyu, Kenya's largest tribal group, believe Mount Kenya's snowy peaks to be the home of their traditional God, Ngai. Climbing Mount Kenya's 17058 feet from a base hotel is an accomplishment for both world class mountain climbers and novice rock scramblers. Alternatively, a leading hotel of the world the Mount Kenya Safari Club, offers every imaginable luxury within close proximity of the magnificent mountain. A heated swimming pool, horseback riding trails, a par-3 nine hole golf course and 300 acres visited by numerous bird species, are just some of the entertainment possibilities offered. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

More about Mount Kenya (safety precautions, warning notices and ecosystem information)

Mount Elgon and Saiwa Swamp National Parks

The upper slopes of Mount Elgon, whose peaks reach into Uganda, are covered with afro-alpine vegetation which typifies equatorial mountains. The Kitum caves situated on its slopes, have gradually been 'burrowed' by processions of forest elephants who follow a narrow trail at nights in search of mineral deposits. [IPS]

Saiwa Swamp, Kenya's smallest park, was established primarily for the protection of the shy Sitatunga (an equatic antelope with splayed feet), as well as the for blue and colobus monkey. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Nairobi City

The cosmopolitan nature of Nairobi may come as a surprise when you first arrive in Africa. The city sports unique shopping opportunities, restaurants and hotel accommodations. Visitors are advised to exercise caution when exploring the city, and to make use of taxi services at night. A city tour typically includes a drive along the city center's interesting buildings and historical sites as well as the fashionable Muthaiga suburb. You may also have an opportunity to explore the Nairobi National Museum and its snake park. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Nairobi National Park

Only a few minutes drive from Nairobi, this park is as wild and eventful as any of the other game sanctuaries in Kenya. Though elephant are absent, the predatorial lion and cheetah live in search of zebra, wildebeest and plains game. The park covers an area of 44 sq. miles and a visit to the Animal Orphanage is sometimes included in the half day tour. [IPS]

Ol Pejeta Private Game Sanctuary

Formerly a billionaire's holiday home, this private reserve offers game viewing on the Laikipia plains within view of Mount Kenya. Game includes rhino, elephant, an astounding variety of plains game, and a chimpanzee sanctuary. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Samburu, Buffalo Springs and Shaba Reserves

Along this triple sanctuary, wildlife concentrates conveniently on the gallery forest of the Uaso Nyiro River. The rare gerenuk and Grevy zebra inhabit this park along with oryx who bear an uncanny resemblance to the legendary unicorn. The reticulated giraffe displays its magnificent cost of distinct patterns which set it apart from the Masai giraffe. The abundance and variety of game make this park the northern rival to the Masai Mara. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Shimba Hills National Reserve

Minutes from Kenya's Indian Ocean, Shimba is the only place in Kenya where the sable antelope can be found. Elephant, buffalo, genet, civet and serval cat can also be spotted. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Sibiloi National Park and Koobi Fora

Situated on Turkana's windblown eastern shores, Sibiloi's wide variety of game include northern species such as the Somali ostrich, gerenuk and oryx. The park's borders extend one kilometer into the lake, embracing some of the Turkana's resident population of Nile crocodile and hippo. [IPS]

Koobi Fora is known as the 'Cradle of Mankind'- it is here that the Homo Erectus (judged to be approx. 1.6 million years old) was discovered by a team headed by Dr. Richard Leakey. The skull of Homo Habilis, coded as KNM-Er 1470 found in 1972, is close to 2.2 million years old whilst the skull of Australopithecus Bosei, KNM-Er 406 is judged to be about 2.6 million years old. There is a field museum to display these findings, and a tour of the excavation sites is led by a local guide. [IPS]

Expeditions are organized for these destinations from the Lake Turkana Lodge on the western shores.

Accommodations: 

Tsavo National Park

The combined area of Tsavo East and West form one of the world's largest game reserves- 13,000 sq. km. Practically all of Kenya's wildlife is represented in the two Tsavos, with generous portions of elephant herds which not so long ago, were threatened with extinction. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Tanzania National Parks & Game Reserves

Aberdare National Park

This fairy park comprises of cascading waterfalls, bamboo forests and sub-alpine plants. The thick forest area is rich in wildlife: bongo, impala, waterbuck, elephant and the spectacular colobus monkeys all have their home here. Typically, visitors to this park will have lunch at a nearby base hotel before proceeding for an overnight stay at one of the treehotels. Built on high elevation overlooking a floodlit waterhole and salt lick, the treehotel provides an undisputed 'royal box' above this pageant of African wildlife. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

IPS Notes: Only an overnight bag is permitted at the treehotel; the remainder of your luggage is placed in storage at the base hotel. Some rooms have shared bathrooms. Minimum ages for children range from 7 to 10 years -- check when booking.

Amboseli National Park

The Amboseli National Park is one of the regions most photogenic parks. Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain at over 19,300 feet, dominates the park. By comparison, the mountain's second tallest peak, Mawenzi at just under 16,900 feet, is higher than most peaks in the lower United States. Amboseli is also home to large herds of elephant which is intriguing since the vegetation in most of the park is delicate and sparse. Human and wildlife here is sustained by the melted snows of Kilimanjaro feeding the marshlands and swamp grounds through subterranean springs. Due to the daytime heat, reflection off the light soil, and evaporation across the plains, game-viewing drives can be quite tricky and it is sometimes difficult to distinguish between real wildlife and mirages. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Central Island National Park

Now designated as a 'World Heritage Site', this island is reached by approx. 20-40 minute boat ride from the western shores of Lake Turkana. The island was formed as a result of volcanic activity and encompasses three crater lakes which over the years have been home to different forms of life as their names suggest: Crocodile Lake, Flamingo Lake and Tilapia Lake. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

* the above facilities will shortly be placed under the management of Ivory Safaris Tours (1975) Ltd.

Karen

On the outskirts of Nairobi, this area is named after Karen Blixen, author of 'Out of Africa'. Visits typically encompass the Karen Blixen Museum furnished mostly with her original items; a stop at the Utamaduni craft shopping place, a ceramic jewelry workshop and finally a stop a the Giraffe Manor. At this research center, visitors are permitted to feed the giraffes and enjoy an informal chat with the caretakers. [IPS]

Lake Baringo and Lake Bogoria National Reserve

Both lakes are situated within close proximity in the Rift Valley and offer an extraordinary variety of birdlife. Lake Bogoria's shoreline is dotted with steam jets, boiling geysers and fumaroles- a clear reminder of the earth's underground activities. Lesser pink flamingoes inhabit the lake fringes along with the rare Greater Kudu. Lake Baringo also nestles close to the Rift Valley's eastern wall and is home to crocodiles and hippopotami. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Lake Nakuru National Park

Popularly known as the 'Home of a million Flamingoes', the Kenya Wildlife rangers keep close vigil over its rhino population, most of whom were translocated from other game parks. The lake drains water by evaporation alone, which maintains its alkalinity and accounts for a delicately balanced ecosystem supporting one of the greatest ornithological spectacles on earth. The bird population varies according to water levels. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Lake Naivasha

Situated in the shadow of Mount Longonot, this 'sunshine' lake is a favorite stopover enroute to the Masai Mara. The lake has been described as a 'bewilderment of birds' with a population of up to 400 different species. At nearby Hell's Gate, the rare Lammergeyer, Nyanza swift and Verreaux's eagle may be spotted. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Lamu

Lamu Island represents the cradle of Swahili culture in Kenya: this tiny enclave boasts the purest Swahili spoken along the coastline. The Muslim tradition demands the discreet dress code for visitors and it is likely that the muezzin call to prayers will awaken you briefly in the early morning hours. Explore the town's historic past where Lamu's carved doors rival those of Zanzibar, and transport is by donkey cart or dhow. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Masai Mara National Reserve

The Maasai Mara is the Jewel in Kenya's wildlife scenario, and offers the possibility of seeing "the big five" and many other species of game. The Reserve is most famous for it Animal Migration where annually herds of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle become part of a massive movement of wildlife from one part of the Mara/Serengeti eco system, to another. This northern extension of the Serengeti is bisected by the Mara river, bordered by luxurious riverine forest. The region's choice of accommodation includes lodges as well as renowned luxury tented camps. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Mombasa

Kenya's second largest town of Mombasa is situated on an island, and has a recorded history stretching back nearly 2000 years and was mentioned in the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea, a pilot's guide to the Indian Ocean written by one Diogenes, a Greek living in Egypt in the end of the first century AD. Fringing the dhow harbor is Old Town, a maze of narrow streets and pedestrian lanes with quaint shuttered houses and open fronted shops. The smell of spices is always present. Dominating the entrance to the harbor is Fort Jesus, open to visitors, which houses an interesting museum displaying antiquities from the length of the Kenya coast. There are two major beaches North and South of Mombasa Island which feature vast uninterrupted stretches of powder white sand, lapped by the azure Indian Ocean and protected by a coral reef. [IPS]

Mount Kenya National Park

The Kikuyu, Kenya's largest tribal group, believe Mount Kenya's snowy peaks to be the home of their traditional God, Ngai. Climbing Mount Kenya's 17058 feet from a base hotel is an accomplishment for both world class mountain climbers and novice rock scramblers. Alternatively, a leading hotel of the world the Mount Kenya Safari Club, offers every imaginable luxury within close proximity of the magnificent mountain. A heated swimming pool, horseback riding trails, a par-3 nine hole golf course and 300 acres visited by numerous bird species, are just some of the entertainment possibilities offered. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

More about Mount Kenya (safety precautions, warning notices and ecosystem information)

Mount Elgon and Saiwa Swamp National Parks

The upper slopes of Mount Elgon, whose peaks reach into Uganda, are covered with afro-alpine vegetation which typifies equatorial mountains. The Kitum caves situated on its slopes, have gradually been 'burrowed' by processions of forest elephants who follow a narrow trail at nights in search of mineral deposits. [IPS]

Saiwa Swamp, Kenya's smallest park, was established primarily for the protection of the shy Sitatunga (an equatic antelope with splayed feet), as well as the for blue and colobus monkey. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Nairobi City

The cosmopolitan nature of Nairobi may come as a surprise when you first arrive in Africa. The city sports unique shopping opportunities, restaurants and hotel accommodations. Visitors are advised to exercise caution when exploring the city, and to make use of taxi services at night. A city tour typically includes a drive along the city center's interesting buildings and historical sites as well as the fashionable Muthaiga suburb. You may also have an opportunity to explore the Nairobi National Museum and its snake park. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Nairobi National Park

Only a few minutes drive from Nairobi, this park is as wild and eventful as any of the other game sanctuaries in Kenya. Though elephant are absent, the predatorial lion and cheetah live in search of zebra, wildebeest and plains game. The park covers an area of 44 sq. miles and a visit to the Animal Orphanage is sometimes included in the half day tour. [IPS]

Ol Pejeta Private Game Sanctuary

Formerly a billionaire's holiday home, this private reserve offers game viewing on the Laikipia plains within view of Mount Kenya. Game includes rhino, elephant, an astounding variety of plains game, and a chimpanzee sanctuary. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Samburu, Buffalo Springs and Shaba Reserves

Along this triple sanctuary, wildlife concentrates conveniently on the gallery forest of the Uaso Nyiro River. The rare gerenuk and Grevy zebra inhabit this park along with oryx who bear an uncanny resemblance to the legendary unicorn. The reticulated giraffe displays its magnificent cost of distinct patterns which set it apart from the Masai giraffe. The abundance and variety of game make this park the northern rival to the Masai Mara. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Shimba Hills National Reserve

Minutes from Kenya's Indian Ocean, Shimba is the only place in Kenya where the sable antelope can be found. Elephant, buffalo, genet, civet and serval cat can also be spotted. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Sibiloi National Park and Koobi Fora

Situated on Turkana's windblown eastern shores, Sibiloi's wide variety of game include northern species such as the Somali ostrich, gerenuk and oryx. The park's borders extend one kilometer into the lake, embracing some of the Turkana's resident population of Nile crocodile and hippo. [IPS]

Koobi Fora is known as the 'Cradle of Mankind'- it is here that the Homo Erectus (judged to be approx. 1.6 million years old) was discovered by a team headed by Dr. Richard Leakey. The skull of Homo Habilis, coded as KNM-Er 1470 found in 1972, is close to 2.2 million years old whilst the skull of Australopithecus Bosei, KNM-Er 406 is judged to be about 2.6 million years old. There is a field museum to display these findings, and a tour of the excavation sites is led by a local guide. [IPS]

Expeditions are organized for these destinations from the Lake Turkana Lodge on the western shores.

Accommodations: 

Tsavo National Park

The combined area of Tsavo East and West form one of the world's largest game reserves- 13,000 sq. km. Practically all of Kenya's wildlife is represented in the two Tsavos, with generous portions of elephant herds which not so long ago, were threatened with extinction. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Tanzania National Parks & Game Reserves

Kenya National Parks & Game Reserves

Arusha National Park

This park has three distinct zones: Ngurdoto Crater (often called the 'mini-Ngorongoro'); the shallow alkaline Momella Lakes fed by underground streams (upon which rest thousands of lesser and greater flamingoes, and many migrant birds can be seen between May and October); and the densely forested slopes of Mount Meru (one of the rewarding mountains to climb in Africa and where, among other animal species, live blue monkeys and beautiful black and white colobus monkeys). Other attractions in the park include the elephant, giraffe, buffalo, zebra, hippo, various antelopes, leopard and hyena. The park is 21 km from Arusha on the main Arusha to Moshi road. A network of gravel roads and tracks navigable by two wheel-drive vehicle link the park's main features and viewing points. Nevertheless, a few roads require 4WD vehicles. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

in Arusha town: 

Gombe Stream National Park

Located a few kilometers north of Kigoma , on the western part of Tanzania, is the smallest but one of the best known of Tanzania's National Park’s made famous for its primates and the research center of world renowned Dr. Jane Goodall. Gombe Stream consists of a narrow mountainous strip of country stretching along the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika and running inland about 5 km to the peaks of the mountain range forming the rift escarpment. The thick gallery forests of the valley and lower slopes, and the open deciduous woodland on the upper slopes.are the few places where chimpanzees can still be found in their natural habitat. Since 1960, Dr. Jane Goodall and colleagues have studied the primates here. Other primates which may be seen in the park include: Baboon, Red Colobus Monkey, and Blue Monkey. and the birdlife include the African and the trumpeter hornbills, Ross's turaco, pied and giant kingfishers, and the crowned eagle. Access to the park is only by water vessel from either Kigoma or Ujiji. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Katavi National Park

This remote and difficult park to reach (strictly recommended for those of an adventurous spirit) lies on a high flood plain surrounding Lake Kitavi, to the south of the Mahale Mountains. The main vegetation found here is the Miombo woodland. It has a wide variety of wildlife (crocodile, hippo, leopard, lion, roan and sable antelopes, southern reedbuck, topi, eland, elephant, and one of the largest herds of buffalo, with as many as 1,600 animals) and offers excellent game viewing with a real wilderness atmosphere. The diverse woodland, acacia bush, lakes and swamps have attracted over 400 species of birds, including large flocks of pelicans. Other attractions are Lakes Katavi and Chada, which are joined by the River Katuma. The best months to visit are July to October. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Lake Manyara National Park

This relatively small park is divided into five distinct vegetation zones: ground-water forest, marshland and reed beds, open grasslands and acacia woodland. In a single day, a visitor may see elephant, buffalo, zebra, hippo and the curious lions which have a habit of resting in trees. Sheltering under the massive escarpment of the Great Rift Valley, and covering an area of 325 sq. km, this park is a flash of green amid an otherwise parched landscape. A line of springs support the lush vegetation of a groundwater forest, where blue monkeys, baboons and the curious-looking silvery-cheeked hornbill live, among the more than 350 bird species, the most profuse being the flamingo. [IPS]

Accommodations: 

Lake Nyasa

Also known as Lake Malawi, Lake Nyasa is the most southerly of the Rift Valley lakes and is also, biologically, the most diverse. For example, the lake contains 30 per cent of the world's cichild species - colorful fish easily observed in the clear water. [IPS]

Lake Tanganyika

The lake is the longest fresh water lake in the world (677km), and the second deepest (1433m), with over 250 species of fish. Its great age, isolation and stability have made it a marvelous evolutionary storehouse. Nearly all of the lake's cichlids are unique as are some species of crabs, mollusks and crustaceans. All these make it a truly remarkable biological habitat. [IPS]

Lake Victoria

Africa's largest and the world's second largest freshwater lake, this lake supports fishing communities along its shores as well as commercial operations. [IPS]

Mahale Mountains National Park

Located at Ujiji on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, where Stanley is reputed to have met Livingstone and given the famous greeting "Dr. Livingstone, I presume". The Mahale Mountains, like Gombe, are one of the last natural home to chimpanzees and are rich in birdlife. The park is a unique ecological zone with lowland forest, Miombo and open woodlands, moist and dry Savannah grasslands. Wildlife in the park includes primates, kudu, eland, roan and sable antelopes, giraffe, buffalo, elephant, lion and leopard. Access is by boat or plane, both of which are available for charter. There are no roads and all game viewing is done on foot. It is virtually the only Tanzanian park where you can walk around. [IPS]

Accommodations: