Kenya National Parks
Masai Mara
Wildebeest migration
Every year nearly 2 million wildebeests, zebras and gazelles comes to the Masai Mara. To graze the lush green grasslands and to mate. The fortunate spectator cannot leave the Mara without feeling much blessed of the magic and wonder of Mother Nature. The wildebeest migration from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara is believed to be the greatest and most spectacular migration in the world.
It all starts in the Masai Mara. Once safely arrived to the Masai Mara National Game Reserve during the months of June to July the wildebeest moves further to the private conservancy areas such as the Mara North Conservancy to graze the endless and plentiful lush green plains and to mate.
Wildebeests migrate to graze and mate
The wildebeest bulls begin their mating ritual by calling and attracting the wildebeest cows. Nearly 250.000 wildebeest bulls and 750.000 wildebeest cows meet this way. The dominant bulls give out a very distinct calling sound through their nose. A resonance almost like the one of a frog. They fill the plains. Both in numbers and in sound. The wildebeest mating ritual is believed to last one day only; to ensure that all calves are born on the very same time for greater protection.
And then. In the mid of October, when most of the grasses on the Mara savannah have been shortened and consumed, the wildebeest prepares to move southwards to seek the generous grasslands areas of the Serengeti. To give birth to their calves on the plains of the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania. When the area begins to dry out and the grasses and water becomes scarce the wildebeest set to move again. Scientists believe that the old wildebeest can sense water up to a distance of 50km away. These patriarchs will urge the herds onwards. In search of water a greener pastures. Returning to the Masai Mara and yet again begin the cycle of life.
The wildebeests contribute to the Masai Mara Ecosystem. It is estimated that they leave behind 60,000 tones of dung fertilizing the Mara grassland.
Crossing the Mara River
Trekking the vast distance from the Serengeti to the Maasai Mara and back is a deadly affair. It is estimated that the wildebeests covers a range distance of 3000km2 on their long migratory cycle every year. With their newborns in tow. Many die before even reaching the Masai Mara. On the plains the big cat predators are awaiting the great number of prey. Accompanied by the vultures. Flying high above or waiting in the tall acacias with their sharp beaks for the unfortunate to die before feeding on them.
But the most fatal of all dangers is the crossing of the Mara River. The wildebeests are gathering at the bank of the River Mara. In greater and greater numbers. Nervously waiting. Moving back and forth. None wish to be the firsts to descent the steep Mara banks and plunge into its waters. Filled with the huge crocodiles of the old world. All anticipating this twice a year feast.
Suddenly one takes the decisive jump. And throws himself into the water. Followed by hundreds and hundreds of his companions. Swimming desperately to reach the safe banks. Avoiding by all means to get caught in a deadly set of razor sharp jaws.
Lurking crocodiles
Many wildebeest are caught and eaten by the luring crocodiles. But most die because of drowning. Or because they fatally break a leg on their way down the banks while others die in the rush and excitement as others are trampled to death.
The wildebeests have many crossing points at the Mara River. There is one, the Kichwa Tembo crossing point, within the Mara North Conservancy and two crossing points within the Masai Mara National Game Reserve. But sometimes and somehow the wildebeest just pile themselves in such great numbers anywhere at the banks that the first ones literally are being pushed down the steep banks and falls into the river water.
Crossing points
Karen Blixen Camp invites visitors to have a chance to see the wildebeest crossing the Mara River. One of the most spectacular shows on earth. We arrange full day game drives to the different crossing points throughout the migrating season.
There are three favored crossing points in the Masai Mara. Our nearest crossing point is the Kichwa Crossing Point, which is located within the Mara North Conservancy, with only a 25-30 minutes drive away from the camp. The second crossing is the Little Governor’s Crossing Point, which is located within the Masai Mara National Game Reserve and is approximately 45 minutes drive away. The third crossing is the Serena Crossing Point and is also located within the National Game Reserve with a 1,5 hour drive away from Karen Blixen Camp.
Our guides will take guests to the particular crossing point where they expect the wildebeests may cross the Mara River.
Seasons
It is impossible to forecast the weather in the Masai Mara and one should never believe in any guide book talking of dry seasons and rainy seasons. Drought as well as rain can happen any time of the year. Yet there are some general patterns which are described below.
The hottest months tend to be October, January and February. June, July and August are nice and warm during the day, but can get quite cold, particularly during the early mornings, late evenings and at night. Temperatures range from 15-35° C/59-95° F.
December to January
The savannah is green and lots of new born gazelles make an easy prey for the big cats.
February to April
The savannah is drying up and thousands of wildebeests are born daily in the month of February. It is a favored period of the big cats.
April to June
The rain brings life to the savannah with an abundance of game seeking the area for grazing. Especially the Loita Hills migration makes game drives fantastic since thousands and thousands of wildebeests and zebras come to the area. Hefty rains with thunder usually occur in the late afternoon or late at night. The grass is growing longer and longer as if the plain prepares itself for the wildebeest migration. It is stunning scenery with amazing game viewing.
June to November
The Grand Migration! Over 1 million of wildebeests and zebras arrive from the plains of Serengeti to the Masai Mara in search of greener pastures. And to mate. In their thousands the wildebeest cows and bulls meet on the plains of Mara to mate. Later in mid October to December when the grass is short they leave the Mara and seek the Serengeti savannah to give birth to a new generation. If you wish to see this bunch cross the river now is season to come to Mara.
Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park lies below the most famous symbol of Africa - Mount Kilimanjaro 5,895m (19,340 ft) the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest free standing mountain in the world.
The surrounding area is flat, covered by savannah and acacia scrub and the animals stand in silhouette against this towering majestic giant, its snow-clad peak floating in the stark blue African sky. A large part of the park consists of the alluvial dried-up bed of the seasonal Lake Amboseli, which in the rainy season can transform into a shallow flood whilst the dry season brings strange mirages above the lake's dry shimmering surface.
Towards the centre of the park are a series of swamps, fed by the underground rivers running off the mountain. It is here, closer to the water, that the concentration of wildlife intensifies, from the ever present ponderous herds of elephant to abundant birdlife. This includes a wide variety of waterbirds such as grey heron, saddle bill stork, Egyptian goose as well as long-toed lapwing, yellow throated sand grouse and up to 6 species of vulture.
The rare Madagascar Squacco Heron is a frequent visitor. Other game frequently seen include buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, gazelle, Maasai giraffe, lion and cheetah.
Satao Elerai Camp - A camp with nice green lawns overlooking Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Amboseli Serena Lodge - Built in the style of a Maasai manyatta with tropical gardens and a floodlit water-hole. The emphasis everywhere is on smooth rounded harmony.
Kibo Safari Camp - A cozy camp with terrific green lawns and a terrace overlooking the breath-taking Mount Kilimanjaro.
Kimana Lodge - A budget lodge situated on the outskirts of the park.
Tortillis Camp - An exclusive luxury tented camp on the southern edge of the park giving unparalleled views of Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Ol Tukai Lodge -Deep in the heart of the world famous Amboseli National Park is the magnificent Ol Tukai Lodge.
Aberdare National Park
The Aberdares are a beautiful mountain range in the central highlands of Kenya, for the most part, over 3000m (10,000ft) in altitude. Within the heart of these mountains is the Aberdares National Park, a magical place of dense forest, and misty moorlands, where icy rivers plunge in glorious cascades and waterfalls.
This area is rich in wildlife. Amongst a variety of mammals more commonly seen are elephant, buffalo, rhino, forest-hog, colobus and Sykes monkeys and a wide variety of antelope including the legendary and rare bongo. Birdlife is abundant and varied. 200 species have been recorded, perhaps the most conspicuous group of which the sunbirds are. Birds of prey such as the crowned eagle, mountain buzzard and African goshawk are of special interest. A game viewing drive, possibly en route to Treetops or the Ark, is a worthwhile inclusion.
Aberdare Country Club - A romantic, quiet and relaxing getaway with a game sanctuary. Guests stay in cozy gray stone cottages nestling among lush gardens.
The Ark - An architectural masterpiece standing high above ground in a secluded forest glade where viewing of wildlife takes place at close range and it is kindly not recommended for children.
Outspan Hotel - A lovely setting with established gardens and a feeling of history and up-country colonial elegance.
Treetops - Overlooking water-holes and a salt lick, this is a functional lookout lodge solely dedicated to game viewing at close range.
Mount Kenya
Kenya's highest mountain, (5,199 m/17,058ft) with its snow-capped peaks in stark contrast to the dry grasslands all around is a sight to behold. Equally intriguing is the fact that the bulk of this colossal diamond straddles the Equator. Legend has it that the Kikuyu God 'Ngai' lived on top of this mountain. It is widely held as the world's most perfect model of an equatorial mountain.
The twin peaks Batian and Nelion soar above Mt. Kenya National Park - one of the world’s highest and the lower area makes up the Mt. Kenya Forest Reserve and contains the greatest number of species of indigenous trees. Higher up, bamboo dominates. In the high valleys some of the world's most spectacular mountain plants flourish - some giant mutations of their alpine cousins. Unique high-altitude moorland dominates parts below the glaciers and snowfields.
In the higher altitudes wildlife includes the rock hyrax, endemic mole rat and sometimes eland and zebra. Lower down this variety ranges from the white-tailed mongoose and colobus monkey to the black rhino and lion. There is a fascinating display of forest and moorland birdlife - endemic green ibis, rare Abyssinian long-eared owl, Hartlaub's Turaco and a variety of beautiful sunbirds to mention a few. The third highest peak Lenana (4,985 m/15,193 ft) can be scaled by anyone during the dry seasons of January to early March and July to early October.
Borana Lodge - An extravagant and exclusive wilderness experience with utmost luxury situated on a large private ranch.
Sweetwaters Tented Camp - Tented Camp lies in the heart of privately owned 24,000 acre Sweetwaters Game Reserve, enjoying magnificent views across the game
Lerai Tented Camp - Situated on Lewa Downs inside what used to be a Rhino Sanctuary. The tents are placed on raised platforms of local lava rock under shady spots.
Lewa Downs - One of Kenya's major private conservation successes at the foot of Mt Kenya.
Wilderness Trails - The best known and most successful ranch/homestay with a magical combination of thoughtful hospitality, unforgettable scenery and abundant wildlife.
Mount Kenya Safari Club - A blend of romance and history right at the Equator on a truly magnificent site on the foothills of Mount Kenya offers an animal orphanage where you can see the elusive bongo, an aviary with bi-plane excursions around Mount Kenya.
Mountain Lodge - A rustic look-out lodge that overlooks a floodlit natural water-hole and salt lick.
Naro Moru Lodge - A rustic 'mountain' style lodge set among trees along the banks of a rushing stream which is truly a mountain trekking paradise.
Maralal
Perched on the edge of forested hills, Maralal has all the aspects of a frontier town. A few pepper trees line the two dusty main streets as do colourful warriors who lean against the run-down 'duka' stores. There is a small lively market and a private game park with large herds of eland. This town is also home to 'Kenyatta House' a significant national monument where Kenyatta was detained prior to his release.
Maralal mainly serves as a base for camel trekking, bush walking and white-water rafting on the Ewaso Nyiro River - which is a couple of hours drive away. The colourful Samburu tribe spreads from here into the higher Lerogi Plateau rimmed with cedar forests and the arid scrubland to the north. About 30 kms to the north one comes upon two breathtakingly spectacular viewing points where the mountains plunge some 2,000m (6557 ft) down into the Suguta Valley.
Maralal Safari Lodge - 'Where the animals come to you' - the dining room and verandah have views over a water-hole and salt lick with wildlife just nine metres from where you eat. Comfortable accommodation in chalets
Meru National Park
Set on the lower slopes of Mount Kenya, Meru National Park is perhaps best known for being the place where Joy Adamson's lioness 'Elsa' was returned to the wild. It is entirely unspoilt and has the most scenically diverse variety of landscapes and habitats.
To the east are open grassland plains of red soil that are drained by three seasonal rivers. The wooded western grasslands form a hilly area of volcanic rocks with many permanent streams - these all rise in the Nyambeni mountains and drain into the mighty Tana River.
At the Rojewero confluence the Tana screams over Adamson's Falls before snaking its way to the Indian Ocean. This marvelous wilderness is home to a great many species of animals including Beisa oryx, lesser kudu, gerenuk and eland, as well as the Big Five. Over 300 species of birds have been recorded, from parakeet and the squadrons of quelea to the very rare Peter's Finfoot.
Kindani Camp - Simple thatched rondavels with an atmosphere of relaxed peacefulness provide a natural bush experience.
Meru Mulika Lodge - Set in pleasant gardens overlooking the Mulika Swamp
Shimba Hills National Reserve
The Shimba Hills were gazetted as a National Forest in 1903, grassland areas were incorporated in 1924 and several subsequent extensions took place to bring the Reserve to its present size. In 1968 most of the Reserve was double gazetted as the Shimba Hills National Reserve.
Two smaller areas to the west adjoining the reserve and almost entirely forested remain as Forest Reserves; Mkongani North and Mkongani West Forest Reserve. A fenced elephant corridor connects the Shimba Hills with Mwaluganje Forest Reserve to the North.
The Shimba hills are a dissected plateau that ascends steeply from the coastal plains, 30 km south west of Mombasa and just south of Kwale town. The surrounding escarpment rises from around 120m to 300m across the bulk of the plateau and as high as 450m at Marare and Pengo hills.
The underlying rocks are the Triassic Shimba Grits and in the north central part near Kwale town Pliecone Magarini sands. Rivers flowing from the hills supply fresh water to Mombasa and the Diani/Ukunda area.
Location:
The reserve is approximately 33 km South of Mombasa, in Kwale district of Coast Province.
Tsavo East/West National Park
The combined area of the Tsavo East and West National Parks (21,283 sq. kms 8,217 sq. miles) makes this one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in the world. To the northwest is an unusually vivid green range of hills, the Chyulus. It is here that the marvelous eruption of Mzima Springs comes bubbling to the surface with anything between 10 - 20 million litres of fresh water per hour.
This makes for a natural Jacuzzi for frolicking hippo and opportunistic crocodile. The riverine forests all around are filled with monkeys and birds. Much of the northern sector is covered by the Ngulia Mountain Range.
Here, towards the end of the year, thousands of birds appear out of the night mists - palaearctic migrants, some of which have been tracked as far north as Leningrad. Most of the rest of Kenya's wildlife is resident in the park - about 60 mammal species, some 400 species of birdlife and more than 1,000 species of plants. Endless plains and the Galana River dominates the Tsavo East and across the river is the incredible 300 kilometre-long (186 miles) Yatta Plateau, one of the world's longest lava flows.
Midway the river cascades down Lugard's Falls before making its way sedately to the Indian Ocean and the park contains large herds of elephant, prides of lion as well as being a sanctuary for recently relocated black rhino.
Samburu National Park
Rugged and remote, these wildlife reserves lie within the fascinating semi-desert area of Kenya's Northern Frontier District. The Samburu National Reserve - a lava plain with steep-sided gullies and rounded hills - is physically dramatic with the great Ololokwe table mountain in the background. The central feature of the reserve is the winding and looping Ewaso Nyiro river. On either side of the river, a green ribbon presents a gallery of forest acacia, doum palm and Tamarind, which act as host to a multitude of birdlife.
Some of Kenya's rarer species like the long-necked gerenuk, Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, beisa Oryx and blue-shanked Somali ostrich can be seen here. The Buffalo Springs Reserve butts onto Samburu in the south and is more or less an extension the same kind of environment.
However, as the name implies, the major source of relief in this reserve is an outflow of clear spring water which attracts migrant game and predators from miles around. This reserve is bounded in the north by the Ewaso Nyiro which doesn't reach the sea but buries itself into the Lorien Swamp to the east.
Buffalo Springs Lodge - Bandas with makuti roofs, sited with views of the clear pools of Buffalo Springs.
Larsens - A small luxury tented camp on the edge of the Ewaso Nyiro River. The peace and tranquility makes this a relaxing and private experience.
Samburu Interpids Club - A fantasy bee house with decks built around trees, with accommodations in tents. Everything has a sense of harmony with its lush surroundings.
Samburu Lodge - A busy established lodge set right on the river bank with cozy accommodation in cottages and bandas.
Samburu Serena Lodge - Cottages of natural stone surrounded by tall and lush gardens with indigenous Samburu decor and themes brings the experience closer to home.
Lake Naivasha
Only 90 kms (56 miles) North West of Nairobi, at the foot of the Rift Valley Escarpment, lies Lake Naivasha. Few lakes have a more commanding or lovelier setting than this, the highest and purest of all the Rift Valley lakes. Its secluded lagoons are fringed with papyrus. Mount Longonot 2,977 m (9,109 ft) a now extinct volcano, dominates the skyline in shades of misty blues and purples. Lake Naivasha claims to be home of more species of birdlife than the whole of the British Isles.
Water birds exist in great variety and abundance. Pelican, cormorant and heron are well represented and are best viewed during a boat trip on the lake, which also offers the chance to see hippo at close quarters. A notable bird is the African fish eagle which nests in the trees along the lakeshore, and whose haunting cry is heard echoing across the water.
A narrow causeway links the mainland to Crescent island, a private game sanctuary, where you can walk, viewing a variety of game such as gazelle waterbuck, zebra, giraffe, bat-eared fox, and dik dik. 13 kms (8 miles) south of Lake Naivasha is the dramatic Hell's Gate Gorge - a stark passagway between red towering cliffs. It is here that the Lammargeyer nests - the rarest of Kenya's birds of prey
Great Rift Valley Lodge - A short drive from the well-maintained Pan African Highway, the Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort is just one and a half hours’
Lake Naivasha Country Club - A relaxing and elegant old house that is a comfortable base for exploring the wonders of the lake.
Loldia House- A working cattle ranch with old-fashioned charm and a unique homestay with lovely gardens.
El samere conservation Centre - Once Joy Adamson's home, this is a relaxing and pleasant residential conservation centre facing the lake.
Olerai House - A wonderful flower covered farmhouse with all the comfort and character you'd expect from a homestay.
Mundui - An exclusive and beautiful homestay with an atmosphere of relaxed perfection with a 480 hectare private game reserve adjoining.
Kongonin Game Valley Ranch - A 5,600 hectare ranch stretching from the shores of Lake Naivasha to the high Maasai Mara plateau and is an elegant romantic, intimate and memorable homestay.
Delamere Camp - A small tented camp on one of the most beautiful sites in Kenya within the Soysambu Wildlife Sanctuary on the shores of Lake Elementaita.
Lake Elementaita Lodge - A new lodge overlooking Lake Elementeita
Lake Nakuru
Situated between Lake Naivasha and Lake Baringo, beneath the high cliffs of the Eastern Rift, lies Lake Nakuru and this is a shallow soda lake surrounded by yellow-barked acacia woodland and grasslands, rocky cliffs and hillsides covered with the unusual giant Euphorbia trees. Lake Nakuru is world famous as the home of myriad flocks of greater and lesser flamingoes which frequently form a stunning pink ribbon along the edges of the lake.
But flamingoes are unpredictable and are not always found here in such vast numbers - they migrate up and down the Rift Valley from Natron to Turkana in search of the best food supply. An entertaining spectacle is the large flocks of pelicans found fishing and washing at the southern end of the Lake. Over 400 species of birdlife have been recorded at the lake, making this yet another of Kenya's major ornithological sites.
In addition to the birdlife, the park is home to herds of buffalo, waterbuck, impala, Rothschild giraffe, and leopard. A defined area of the park has now been designated a rhino sanctuary.
Lake Nakuru Lodge - A small lodge with a commanding view of the Lake Nakuru and Lake Nakuru National Park.
Sarova Hill Lodge - Set on a small plateau with views of the lake and is a rustic and functional lodge.
Lake Turkana
Lake Turkana is the largest and the most northerly of the Rift Valley Lakes, with its northern shore bordering Ethiopia. Appropriately called "The Jade Sea" because of its remarkable colour which contrasts with the harsh surrounding purple and black volcanic rock, it is undoubtedly the least hospitable, but most fascinating of all Kenya's lakes.
Although mammals are not well represented here, the lake is an important locality for the northward movement of European migrant birds. Central Island National Park accessible from Ferguson's Gulf is a nesting area for large colonies of waterbirds and crocodiles.
Lake Turkana, where men and animals struggle for survival, may actually have been the "Cradle of Mankind" itself. The rich fossil region at Koobi Fora in the Sibiloi National Park, located on the far north-eastern shore, has revealed fascinating clues to the origins of mankind and his predecessors dating back almost two million years. Access to Sibiloi is by private charter, and the only permanent accommodation available is rustic self-help bandas.
Lake Turakna Lodge - Cabins facing the lake that are popular with fishermen.
The Oasis Club - Functional cottages situated in awesome surroundings some distance from the lake.
Lake Baringo
Lake Baringo lies in the Rift Valley approximately 125 kms (80 mites) north of Nakuru. It is a peaceful place of outstanding beauty, and the home of the Njemps tribesmen, smaller cousins of the Maasai; who have abandoned their nomadic way of life for fishing from fragile reed boats. Baringo is an ornithologist's paradise; its two main attractions being Gibraltar Island with its large nesting colony of Goliath herons, and the escarpment to the western side of the lake - notably the home of Verreaux's Eagle.
Walks along the lakeshore and on the islands offer the chance to identify the abundant birdlife found here, and boat trips to the Molo River provide opportunities to view crocodile and hippo. Hidden in formidable hills 50 kms (30 miles) south of Baringo is Lake Bogoria, a slender stretch of blue water lying under the towering cliffs of the Laikipia Escarpment, and a place of great scenic beauty with its steam jets and boiling geysers - evidence of the origins of the Rift Valley.
Lake Bogoria is best known for its greater kudu to be seen mainly along the eastern shore and the multitudes of brilliant flamingoes that often descend on the lake. Time permitting a side trip to Lake Bogoria is a must for anyone visiting Lake Baringo.
Island Camp - Situated on 0L Lokwe Island in Lake Baringo, this unique tented camp has a special sense of adventure, nestling on the hillside.
Lake Baringo Club - A relaxed and friendly hotel spread along the shore of Lake Baringo with beautiful exotic gardens and wonderful birdlife.
Lake Victoria
Western Kenya contains remarkable and contrasting landscapes, including the only tropical rain forest in East Africa. This is where you encounter the eastern waters and shores of the legendary source of the Nile - Lake Victoria - Africa's largest lake and the second largest freshwater lake in the world. This is a majestic coastline with a fascinating mixture of towering bluffs, great peninsulas and islands. On the shores of a deep gulf is Kisumu, Kenya's third largest city, a friendly, bustling and old fashioned centre with a colourful market.
The stark white sails of Lake Victoria's fishing fleets stand out against a deep blue lake that's home to giant nile perch. On the far side of the gulf from Kisumu is Homa Bay, a cluttered little town that leads to Ruma National Park. Enclosing the Lambwe Valley, this park contains Kenya's only herd of roan antelope. Offshore, there is Rusinga Island. It was here that Mary Leakey uncovered the three million year old skull of Proconsul Africanus.
The earliest fossil remains uncovered on this dusty eroded island dates back some seventeen million years. Neighboring Mfangano Island is equally intriguing with some prehistoric rock paintings, and islanders who lure their catch into nets using kerosene lamps after sundown. Both Rusinga and Mfangano Islands are home to exclusive big-game fishing camps. Then there is tiny Ndere Island National Park (4.2 sq. kms/1.6 sq. miles) with snakes, hippos, crocodiles and several species of waterfowl.
Mfangano Island Camp - A private and luxurious paradise. Delightful, supremely comfortable cottages add to the enchantment.
Rusinga Island Camp - Rustic papyrus-thatched cottages with the lake all around.
Sunset Hotel - From your room you can watch the sunset and the lake.
