Where to visit in Kenya

From the well-known Masai Mara, Amboseli and Tsavo - not forgetting Laikipia, the Rift Valley and the beautiful coastline - Kenya is a country of spectacular wildlife, traditional cultures and dramatic scenery. We tailor-make all our holidays, so let us talk with you about the best places to go in Kenya taking into account your interests and who you’re travelling with.

I had never visited Africa before and this was a fantastic introduction to the continent - from the amazing wildlife and landscapes to the humbling attitude of the ordinary people there. I have already booked another trip and I expect I will return many times.

Place we love to stay
Site of interest
National Park / Reserve

Places to go in Kenya

Read about the highlights of this incredible country in our short summary guides to the main places to go.

Masai Mara

The Masai Mara is one of the world’s most famous safari destinations. The diverse wildlife provides excellent game viewing, and some say it’s the jewel in Kenya’s crown.

Buffalo, flamingoes and pelicans in Lake Bogoria, Rift Valley, Kenya

Naivasha, Nakuru & the Rift Valley

The freshwater and soda lakes of Kenya’s Rift Valley offer dramatic scenery, a chance for relaxation, and some usual features such as steaming hot springs and, of course, wildlife.

Kenya Coast & Lamu

The Kenyan coast is a fabulous place to chill out on gorgeous beaches, swim in the Indian Ocean, and enjoy Swahili food, hospitality and culture.

Black rhinos in Lewa Conservancy, Laikipia, Kenya

Laikipia Plateau

In northern Kenya, the Laikipia Plateau, west of Mount Kenya, is now recognised as a stellar safari destination with a diverse choice of wildlife conservancies such as the famous Ol Pejeta and Lewa.

Samburu & Northern Kenya

Wildlife in Kenya’s arid northern parks is not as prolific as in the south, but it’s still special, particularly with the dramatic scenery as a backdrop.

Amboseli National Park

With a backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is home to large herds of elephants, wildebeest, zebra, impala and over 400 species of birds.

Sunset horse riding with giraffes, Ol Donyo Lodge, Chyulu Hills, Kenya

Tsavo & Chyulu Hills

Tsavo is one of Africa’s largest reserves, a haven for elephants. Nearby Chyulu Hills is great for horse riding and walking safaris, all the while enjoying iconic views across to Kilimanjaro.

Nairobi

There are some great places to visit in Nairobi – such as the national park or Sheldrick’s Wildlife Orphanage - so a night or two can be interesting even though most people just pass through.

Grevy's zebra, seen on a Saruni lodge game drive, Samburu, Kenya

Meru National Park

Meru National Park is Kenya at its most wild and beautiful, and it’s still off the mainstream tourist trail. This is where Elsa, the orphaned lioness hand-reared by the Adamsons, was released into the wild.