Wildlife in Kenya

Animals to see on a safari in Kenya

Conservancies in Kenya are now highly popular as they empower and support local communities whilst protecting the local environment. The Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is one of the most pioneering examples, where a vast area of 18,000 hectares has been earmarked to provide refuge for black and white rhino, sitatunga and Grevy’s zebra. In the Laikipia District you will find the 19,000-acre private conservancy, Ol Pejeta, which features an astounding mix of wildlife. With the largest Black Rhino Sanctuary in East Africa, it is now a successful home to this critically endangered species and you can also visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the only place in Kenya where you can spot this remarkably intelligent animal.

African Lion

Kenya's national animal, and arguably the most famous animal on the planet, the African lion is the symbol of strength and power and the epitome of any safari to wild Africa. Lions are notably the only sociable big cat, with prides formed of a few muscular males who are crowned with a thick mane, whilst most of the hunting is done by the smaller more agile females. They can be found in several Kenyan national parks, including Maasai Mara National Reserve and Nairobi National Park.

African Elephant

The African elephant is the largest land animal on Earth and is known for its impressive size, long tusks, and strong social bonds. They can be found in various national parks and reserves across Kenya, such as Amboseli National Park and Tsavo National Park.

African Leopard

Leopards are known for their elusive and secretive behavior, making them harder to spot than other Big Five animals. They can be found in various Kenyan parks, such as Samburu National Reserve and Laikipia Plateau.

African Buffalo

Also known as Cape buffalos, are large, powerful herbivores with distinctive horns. They are known for their unpredictable behavior and can be found in many of Kenya's national parks and reserves. Maasai Mara is one of Kenya's most famous wildlife conservation areas and is home to a healthy population of African buffalo. The park's grassy plains and abundant water sources make it an ideal habitat for these animals.

Black Rhinoceros

The black rhino is a critically endangered species, and spotting one in the wild is a rare and thrilling experience. They can be found in a few protected areas in Kenya, including Lewa Wildlife Conservancy and Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

The Great Wildebeest Migration

The climax of any Kenya wildlife safari; the annual Great Migration is a dramatic, wild and totally enthralling marvel of nature, where predatory lion, cheetah, leopard and hyena gather and wait expectantly for more than two million wildebeest, gazelle and zebra to arrive in a stampede of activity, so they can prey on the more vulnerable, juvenile or lone animals. The climax of the event comes with the river crossing and after the first animal’s tentative entry into the waters, thousands more follow in its shadow and the inevitable chaos that ensues is breathtaking, with some animals being taken by waiting hungry crocodiles as they desperately try to make it to the other side. The sight and sound of the thundering hooves of the millions of migrating animals arriving from Grumeti River area in Tanzania through to the Masai Mara in Kenya is like no other on earth