Kenya National Parks – Kenya is one of the top tourist destinations in the world, with most of its national parks offering visitors unique experiences. Here’s a look at some of Kenya’s notable national parks:
Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park is one of Kenya’s best parks, renowned for its large herds of African bush elephants and stunning views of Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro.
The park was gazetted as a national reserve in 1906 and later upgraded to a national park.
Chyulu Hills National Park
Chyulu Hills National Park, located in southeastern Kenya, covers an area of 741 square kilometers. It is home to Leviathan Cave, one of the longest caves on the African continent.
The park hosts a variety of wildlife and several bird species.
Hell’s Gate National Park
Hell’s Gate National Park, one of Kenya’s smallest parks, is renowned for its scenic views. Located close to Nairobi, it offers a lower entry fee compared to other Kenyan parks, making it a popular weekend getaway from the city.
Central Island National Park
Central Island National Park is situated in Lake Turkana, the world’s largest permanent desert lake, in northern Kenya.
Often known as Crocodile Island National Park, it has a high concentration of crocodiles.
Kisite Mpunguti Marine National Park
Kisite Mpunguti Marine National Park, located near the border with Tanzania, comprises four islands and is one of the best spots in Kenya for exploring marine life.
Lake Naivasha National Park
Lake Naivasha National Park, close to Nairobi, is an excellent weekend getaway destination. Visitors can explore Crescent Island, Crater Lake Sanctuary, and hike Mount Longonot while touring the park.
Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake Nakuru National Park is famous for its millions of flamingos along the lake’s shores.
The park also hosts over 400 other bird species, making it an ideal destination for bird lovers.
Malka Mari National Park
Malka Mari, one of Kenya’s least visited parks, is located near the Ethiopian border and covers an area of 1,500 square kilometers.
It is known for its plant endemism and is home to rare wildlife and bird species.
Meru National Park
Meru National Park in the Meru region is famous as the area where conservationists George and Joy Adamson raised Elsa the lioness.
Despite past poaching issues, the park now has a thriving wildlife population.
Mount Kenya National Park
Mount Kenya National Park is home to Mount Kenya, the highest mountain in Kenya and the second-highest in Africa.
The main activities here are mountain climbing and hiking.
Mombasa Marine National Park
Mombasa Marine National Park, established in 1986, protects coral reefs and abundant marine life.
It offers a variety of water activities and can be combined with visits to Mombasa’s coastal beaches.
Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park is unique for being the only national park within a city, earning Nairobi the nickname “Wildlife Capital.”
Located on the outskirts of Nairobi, it offers a thrilling wildlife experience for visitors on business trips with limited time.
Watamu Marine National Park
Watamu Marine National Park was one of Kenya’s first parks, established to protect marine life.
The park is home to over 110 species of stony and soft corals, various turtle species, and 600 fish species.
Tsavo West National Park
Tsavo West National Park, Kenya’s second-largest park, is known for the infamous man-eating lions that killed railway workers during railway construction.
It is one of Kenya’s most rewarding parks for wildlife viewing.
Tsavo East National Park
Like its counterpart, Tsavo East National Park is renowned for its wildlife. It is famous for its “red elephants” and is home to the world’s longest plateau, covering about 300 square kilometers.
Saiwa Swamp National Park
Saiwa Swamp National Park is Kenya’s smallest park, covering only 3 square kilometers.
It was established to protect the rare endangered sitatunga antelope.
Ruma National Park
Ruma National Park in Nyanza Province covers an area of 120 square kilometers and is the only place in Kenya where tourists can see roan antelopes.
The park is also home to various wildlife and over 400 bird species.
Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park
Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park, located in Machakos County, was established in 1967 to protect its montane forest, wildlife, and birds.
It is close to Nairobi and can be reached within an hour’s drive, making it a popular weekend getaway or day trip.
Sibiloi National Park
Sibiloi National Park is a unique park established in 1973 to protect its paleontological sites and wildlife.
Located on the shores of Lake Turkana in northern Kenya, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
