A safari in Kenya is one of the most exciting wildlife experiences in the world. From the mighty lions of the Masai Mara to the graceful giraffes of Samburu, Kenya’s national parks are home to some of Africa’s most iconic animals. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, here’s a guide to the incredible wildlife you can encounter on a Kenya safari.
The Big Five of Kenya
Kenya is one of the best places in Africa to see the famous Big Five — the most sought-after animals on safari.
- Lion: Found across the Masai Mara, Tsavo, and Amboseli, lions are symbols of strength and beauty. Watch them hunt at dawn or rest under acacia trees.
- Elephant: Amboseli is famous for its large elephant herds with Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop. Tsavo also hosts some of Africa’s largest elephants.
- Leopard: Elusive and solitary, leopards are often seen in the Masai Mara and Laikipia, draped elegantly over tree branches.
- Buffalo: Strong and plentiful, buffalo are spotted in nearly every park, often grazing near waterholes.
- Rhinoceros: Kenya protects both black and white rhinos. Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Nairobi National Park, and Lake Nakuru are the best places to see them safely.
Other Iconic Wildlife
Beyond the Big Five, Kenya’s savannahs, forests, and wetlands are filled with other fascinating species.
- Cheetah: The fastest land animal, most easily seen in the open plains of the Masai Mara.
- Zebra: Kenya has both the common plains zebra and the rare Grevy’s zebra, found in Samburu.
- Giraffe: Look for Masai giraffes in the Mara and Amboseli, Rothschild’s giraffes in Lake Nakuru, and reticulated giraffes in Samburu.
- Hippos & Crocodiles: Thriving in rivers and lakes, especially along the Mara River and in Amboseli.
- Wildebeest: The stars of the Great Migration, when millions move between the Serengeti and Masai Mara from July to October.
- Hyenas & Jackals: The opportunists of the wild, found in nearly every major reserve.
Antelopes and Gazelles
Kenya’s plains are alive with graceful antelope species:
- Impala, Grant’s, and Thomson’s gazelles are common across open grasslands.
- Elands, oryx, and waterbucks roam the more remote regions.
- Gerenuk, with its long neck, is a Samburu specialty that stands upright to feed on trees.
Birdlife in Kenya
Kenya is a paradise for bird lovers, boasting over 1,000 species.
Some highlights include:
- Flamingos at Lake Nakuru and Lake Bogoria
- African fish eagles at Lake Naivasha
- Ostriches, crowned cranes, kingfishers, and bee-eaters across the country
From wetlands to highlands, Kenya’s diversity makes birdwatching just as thrilling as spotting the Big Five.
Rare & Endemic Species
Some species are unique to Kenya’s regions and conservancies:
- Grevy’s zebra – the world’s rarest zebra, found in northern Kenya.
- Beisa oryx and Somali ostrich – thrive in Samburu and the arid north.
- Tana River red colobus and mangabey – endangered monkeys living in coastal forests.
Plan Your Wildlife Safari in Kenya
No matter which park you visit, every safari in Kenya offers unforgettable wildlife encounters. From Masai Mara’s lions to Amboseli’s elephants, and Tsavo’s red-soil landscapes, each destination reveals a different side of Kenya’s natural wonder.
At Hawthorn Safari, we design personalized safari experiences — from short wildlife tours to luxury lodge stays — helping you explore Kenya’s parks at your own pace with expert local guides.
Contact us today to plan your Kenya safari and see Africa’s most spectacular animals up close.
