Where to go in Kenya

Amboseli National Park is often referred to as the the ‘Land of the Giants’ because of its huge elephant populations. This park is also home to some of the largest tusker elephants left on the continent. Along with good elephant sightings, there is an abundance of giraffe, zebra, lion, leopard and over 600 species of bird. The park has an incredible backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania – in fact, this is one of the best viewpoints of Africa’s largest mountain. A safari here can be a stand-alone destination or in an itinerary combining the Masai Mara or Tsavo National Park.

The Laikipia Plateau is an an expansive area of conservancies, ranches and rolling farmlands in central Kenya. The three main airstrips are Lewa, Nanyuki and Loisaba, so the park can easily be combined in a flying itinerary. Although the wildlife is not prolific or dense, especially compared to the plains of the Masai Mara, the Laikipia Plateau is all about expansive space, unique experiences and remote game-viewing. It is a great destination for active travelers or families traveling with children as the camps and lodges offer activities like tubing on the river Ewaso Nyiro, quad biking, night drives, camel riding and more. Arguably, the Laikipia Plateau has the most breathtaking views in all of Kenya, like this view from Loisaba Tented Camp.

The capital of Kenya, Nairobi, is where a safari itinerary will inevitably start or finish. That said, there is more to do than just check in and out of a hotel. The hustle-and-bustle can be intriguing to many travelers and some activities are not to be missed. The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust operates the most successful orphan elephant rescue and rehabilitation program in the world, and is a must-do. Other places to visit include the Giraffe Center, and the Karen Blixen museum. For those looking for a ‘wow-factor’ to start your trip with, we would recommend staying in Giraffe Manor which was has been titled as one of the most incredible hotels in the world. Although it is very popular (you need to book 9-12 months in advance), it is such a memorable experience as you get to have breakfast with the giraffes.