Natural Wonders of Kenya

Kenya is easily one of the most coveted destinations in all of Africa.  The country is situated along the equator with the Indian Ocean on its eastern border.  The natural wonders of Kenya are abundant and diverse and sit atop most bucket lists when it comes to safaris.

The country was named after Mount Kenya, which is a major landmark and the second-tallest mountain in Africa.  Kenya is the heart of Africa and home to many wonders of nature.  Kenya has a lot of beautiful places that you can consider when you are planning to vacation in this place. It has a lot of deserts and mountains, colorful tribal culture, as well as coral reefs and beaches.

Maasai Mara National Reserve

Experience the breathtaking Maasai Mara, spanning over 1,500 square kilometers (579 square miles) of vast savannah plains. Witness the annual wildebeest migration, where millions of animals traverse the Mara River, creating a spectacular wildlife spectacle.

Locals simply call it, “The Mara.” This is a huge game reserve in the southwestern part of Kenya, which is, in fact, the northern continuance of the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. It is nabbed after the people in Masai and their explanation of the place when you looked at it in the distance.

The Masai Mara National Park is very well-known for its extraordinary population of Big Cats, game, and the yearly migration of zebra, wildebeest, and Thomson’s gazelle from the Serengeti each year from the month of July to October, a relocation that is so enormous that it is known as the Great Migration.  The Masai Mara is the most coveted safari destination in the country while providing travelers with an abundance and diversity of wildlife.  Lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo make up the BIg 5 and they are all present.

Mount Kenya

Embark on an adventure to Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak standing at 5,199 meters (17,057 feet). Explore diverse ecosystems, from bamboo forests to alpine meadows, and spot unique wildlife like the endemic Mount Kenya mole rat and highland bird species.

Mount Kenya is also protected with national park status.  It is an iconic spiritual destination for many and a coveted natural wonder of Kenya that draws visitors from around the world.

Amboseli National Park

Be captivated by the iconic silhouette of Mount Kilimanjaro as you explore Amboseli National Park. Encounter large elephant herds against the backdrop of the snow-capped mountain and witness unique birdlife in the surrounding swamps.

One of the leading attractions in all of Africa is Mount Kilimanjaro.  It is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world and the tallest mountain in all of Africa.  It is also one of the most picturesque mountains as well.  Although it is based in Tanzania, the most stunning picturesque view of the mountain occurs in Amboseli National Park.

Amboseli is also renowned for its wildlife.  There is a great herd of elephants as well as the rest of the Big 5 except for the rhino. Travelers come to see Mount Kilimanjaro and they come to see wildlife.  The absolutely greatest experience is when wildlife is framed with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background.

Lake Nakuru National Park

Delight in the pink hues of Lake Nakuru as thousands of flamingos create a stunning spectacle. Explore the park’s diverse landscapes, including woodlands and grasslands, home to rhinos, zebras, giraffes, and abundant bird species.

Tsavo National Park

Discover the vastness of Tsavo National Park, divided into East and West sections. Marvel at the red-colored soil and encounter elephants, lions, cheetahs, and other wildlife as you traverse this expansive wilderness.

Samburu National Reserve

Experience the rugged beauty of Samburu National Reserve, known for its unique wildlife species. Spot the “Samburu Special Five,” including the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and beisa oryx.

Lake Naivasha

Escape to the serene shores of Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake fringed by lush vegetation. Take a boat safari to spot hippos and diverse birdlife, or hike through Hell’s Gate National Park for thrilling adventures amidst towering cliffs.

Aberdare National Park

Immerse yourself in the misty forests and scenic landscapes of Aberdare National Park. Encounter rare wildlife, such as the elusive bongo antelope, explore picturesque waterfalls, and enjoy trout fishing in crystal-clear mountain streams.

Hell’s Gate National Park

Step into the dramatic landscapes of Hell’s Gate National Park, characterized by towering cliffs, deep gorges, and hot springs. Engage in hiking, rock climbing, and cycling through the park’s breathtaking canyons.

Lake Turkana

Witness the beauty of the world’s largest desert lake, Lake Turkana, also known as the “Jade Sea.” Explore its volcanic islands, visit local tribes, and marvel at the stunning sunsets over the shimmering waters.

Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is reconsidered as one of the Great Lakes in Africa, and it is found in Kenya. This lake was named for Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom. With a surface measurement of 68,800 square kilometers, this lake is the biggest lake in Africa as well as the biggest tropical lake in the world.

Furthermore, this lake is the second-largest freshwater lake in the world based on surface area. Similarly, when it comes to volume, Lake Victoria is the eighth-largest continental lake holding 2,750 cubic kilometers of water.

Nairobi National Park

It is pretty crazy when you can be landing at the Nairobi International Airport and look out the window to see wildlife as you land.  It is possible that you may say wildlife from your airplane window as you taxi to and from the terminal.  Nairobi National Park is one of the most frequently visited national parks in the country because of its proximity to the city of Nairobi.

The national park is literally neighbors with the city and the park boundaries border up next to the city.  It is astounding that more wildlife does not end up wondering about the city because of such close proximity.  The park offers a walking safari and is well-known for its efforts in protecting the rhinoceros population.

Tsavo East and Tsavo West

Tsavo East and Tsavo West are neighboring national parks and work together as a competitive wildlife destination with the Masai Mara.  Tsavo East National Park and Tsavo West National Park share common wildlife while also offering unique geographical features.

Both national parks provide access to the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo).  Other mammalian species include hartebeest, giraffe, waterbuck, cheetah, jackal, hyena, warthog, kudu, baboon, and eland to name just a few.  These two parks work together to deliver one of the most exciting and rewarding wilderness and wildlife encounters in the world.

Conclusion

It is easily apparent that the natural wonders of Kenya are diverse, abundant, and ripe with wildlife opportunities.  Accordingly, it is a leading destination for African safaris.  Visitors will not be disappointed.  Kenya beckons your visit.  Remember when you come to experience the amazing nature attractions of the country, comes with a position of responsibility.  Each of these natural wonders needs your protection in order to be here for generations to come.