Kenya: 5 ecotourism destinations and the animals you could spot

These ecotourist destinations are the perfect places to catch a glimpse of the Big Five and other wildlife the country has to offer

When you think of Kenya, you think of the amazing wildlife you can find throughout the country. From soaring plains dotted with grazing giraffes, to the vibrant marine life on the seabed, Kenya is a place where the natural world will never cease to amaze.

So it makes sense that this landscape is protected. Ecotourism is an important and thriving movement in Kenya, and there are a number of eco resorts and camps around the country where you can enjoy the natural world, safe in the knowledge that your visit is actively benefiting the environment around you.

North-east of the Great Rift Valley

Laikipia, in the northeast of the Great Rift Valley, is home to many a wildlife conservancy, and is considered to be one of the best locations for safari. There are numerous species calling this region home, including white rhino and Grévy's zebra, as well as the notoriously shy leopards and perhaps Kenya’s most famous animal, the noble lion. It’s also where you can book in for unique overnight experiences, like sleeping under the stars, or in luxurious tented lodges.

The Chyulu Hills

Think that Kenya is all wide, golden plains? Think again. Huge swathes of the country are green and verdant, like the luscious, rolling Chyulu Hills region in southern Kenya. The wildlife is abundant, and safari options are plentiful – you can go on horseback, or join a walking safari led by Maasai, where you might see the Big Five (namely the rhino, elephant, buffalo, lion and leopard).

As well as spotting the Big Five you could catch a glimpse of a cheetah (©davidlloyd.net)

Maasai Mara

Perhaps the most famous region in the country, this protected land is where you’ll find all the majestic animals synonymous with Kenya. As well as the Big Five, you can expect to see giraffes grazing, gazelles leaping and perhaps even an elusive cheetah. It’s also where one of nature’s greatest spectacles takes place…

The great wildebeest migration

From July to November, over 1.3 million wildebeest and zebra cross the Serengeti in the quest for the greener pastures of the Maasai Mara. It’s a sight that’s on many a bucket list – seeing this magnificent display is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and one which doesn’t disappoint.

Expect to see magnificent creatures such as the African elephant on your travels (©davidlloyd.net)

Meru National Park

There are a huge variety of landscapes in Meru National Park, from thick jungle to wide, open plains. And it’s home to a wealth of wildlife, which is thriving as never before thanks to environmental and conservation initiatives – the population of both white and black rhino is positively flourishing.

Somak is a tour operator with over 50 years’ experience of providing fabulous luxury safaris and tailor-made itineraries to Kenya. They feature all the game parks as well as the stunning beaches of Mombasa at surprisingly affordable prices.