Parks

Ξ 3 August 2007 | → | ∇ site |

THE MOST REPRESENTATIVE PARKS IN KENYA.

Just by mentioning the name ‘Kenya’, it is sufficient for anyone to relate to million of images related to animals roaming free in their parks like the Maasai Mara. Thousands of zebras herd in the plains, you might also imagine little elephant cuddled by her mother, crocodiles anxiously awaiting for their prey as they cross the famous mara river during the annual immigration and much more. All this can be experienced in Kenya and will form part of your memories after a safari through the parks of Kenya.

The parks cover an extension of approximately 44.395 Km² a figure that represents about 7.6% of the whole country. You will be able to find about 80 different animal species, ranging from the big five to the antelopes and the tiny dik diks slightly bigger than the hares. There are also about 1500 bird species that make this country a haven for bird lovers.

The most important Parks.

Amboseli: This is a protected area which is located in the southern part of the country and at the feet of mount Kilimanjaro (5896 metres above the sea level). This region is popularly known for it’s enormous herds of elephants that can be easily spotted as they feed along the plains. There is no doubt about the other attraction here, which is none other than the gigantic Kilimanjaro offering a perfect scenario for the best pictrures during your safari holiday. As mentioned earlier on, this is a haven for the elephants, be careful with the the mother elephants who are accompanied by their little ones as they are become sensibly dangerous.

Maasai Mara national reserve: This is undoubtedly the most famous reserves in the whole world due to various factors. It is where the unique annual animal immigration between Mara and Serengeti takes place. The two parks form a single ecosystem but are in located in Kenya and Tanzania (Mara occupies the north - Kenya and Serengeti the south-Tanzania). This park is often referred to as the most singular creation of nature and Mara, for it’s spectacular blue sky and the enormous presence of animal life, is undoubtedly the most famous park in the East African region. The vegetation that dominates the region is typical of the African savannah, making itself home to more than 22 families lions and approximately 3000 elephants. Other animals to be spotted here include herds of buffaloes, zebras, a huge population of lions and many more. This is simply why Maasai Mara is a must for safari holiday lovers. All these animals will be easily seen moving around in search of food within the outstanding plains of Mara. Do not forget to take a trip to the mara river where you will be able to see hippopotamus and crocodiles, taking your best safari pictures and images.

Samburu and Shaba Reserves: In a strategic location in the north of the central region and Nairobi, within the Samburu area, our visitors will discover not only the park but also the colourful Samburu tribe. Shaba on the other hand is a peculiar area where visitors will discover hot springs withing the savanah, thousands of bushes and the Ewao Nyiro river that waters a well diversified flora and fauna. This area is famous perhaps since it is home to unique species of zebras, the famous long neck gerenuk, the reticulated giraffe and the beiza oryx.

Lake Nakuru National Park: In just a two hours from Nairobi, the Nakuru National park is home to millions of flamingoes covering the lake with a pink mantle and has been rated another world wonder. This is where you will experience the greatest ornithological spectacle in the whole world. In it’s surroundings, it is easy to catch a glance of other animal species including lions, rhinos and a small population of leopards not forgetting some big mammals including the rhinos.

Hells Gate national Park: This is one of the few parks in Kenya where the visitor on safari can take a walking tour without the company of a guide. The main attraction is the Njorwa gorge, an old affluent of the renowned Naivasha river widely known nowadays for its spectacular valley whose walls have suffered severe erosion during the past years after the river dried up.

Mount Kenya National Park: Mt. Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya, boasting it’s 5199 metres above the sea level. This mountain is famous for it’s unique contrast between the warm savannah, glaciers and the white snow peak. Both the Kikuyu and the Masai, claim that the mountain to be home to their God ‘Ngai’. Mt Kenya is also famous for it’s peak (Lenana Peak), that is easily accessible by almost all, even those inexperienced in mountain climbing.

Aberdares National Park: With it’s declaration as a National park in 1950, Aberdares National park is one of the oldest park in the country. This is where Queen Elizabeth was declared queen of England in 1950, while on her safari holidays at the Tree Tops Lodge. Aberdares is also famous since this is the only park in the country where a rare antelope called Bongo can be found, not forgetting numerous black rhinos. The park is covered by a huge extension of green vegetation crowned by a waterfall and as a result offer s it’s visitors spectacular panoramic views during a adventure.

The Tsavo National Park: This is undoubtedly the biggest park in the country and is divided into two, Tsavo East and Tsavo West. The biggest elephant herd in the country has been spotted. These elephants usually cover themselves with the red soil, very characteristic of this area, and thus keeping away insects, by so doing they can also perfectly camouflage themselves in the open land.

Rhinos can be spotted here though not easily. They usually hide in the dense vegetation and particularly in the sanctuaries that have been especially lifted to protect this species. These sanctuaries include among others Tsavo and Lewa downs in Laikipia.

Tsavo East: It is mainly covered by bush, and visiting this area will bring memories of the forgotten Africa. Tsavo West is located in huge extension of dry lands, and it’s vegeteation is mainly bushes and grasslands. This park is home to more than 8000 elephants, making it a must for a safari vacation and tourism in general. This park became very famous during the colonial era, for it’s man eater lions during the constructions of the Kenya - Uganda railway line. These lions are said to have killed more than 50 Indian railway workers.

Tsavo West: This park offers a great diversity of habitats though it’s major attraction is the Mzima springs. This is the main source of water to the park. It is said that the source of the springs lies in Mt. Kilimanjaro, and that the waters travel hundreds of miles underground, erupting in Mzima within the rocks. This is a very interesting spot for animal lovers during a safari, as it makes it easy to see relaxed animals who come in numbers to water themselves in the springs.

Mombasa: The Kenyan coast is beyond no doubt a great attraction to any visitor. Many usually combine the photographic safari with some few days at the coastal region. It’s magnificent beaches crowned by an important cultural diversity known to few, would fascinate any visitor on holiday. It is a must to anyone who engages in a safari holiday to this great country.

The beaches offer a great opportunity to practise different water sports. A walk through it’s white and soft sand would perhaps be the most relaxing experience, as you enjoy the cool breeze from the outstanding blue waters of the Indian ocean. Possibilities offered by the sea here are windsurfing, fishing and many more. Inquire for information from your local hotel concierge on how to book some of these activities as this will become handy for visitors to spend some quality time.

The coastal area is also known for it’s local Swahili cuisine which will be a surprise to the majority of it’s visitors. Besides the local cuisine, visitors in Mombasa will be able to come across thousands of elements which will catch even the most rare souls,. This is what makes the Kenyan coast a real African paradise. Its is said to be a result of a complex concoction of influences that were brought to the Kenyan coast by the Kazkazi and kuzi monsoon winds.

Marine parks and reserves: Kenya has seven marine parks and reserves being a pioneer in the African continent in the protection of the aquatic ecosystems. Take a trip into the sea and engage in a deep sea diving to enjoy the fruits under the world of the Indian ocean

Gedi Ruins: This is one of the greatest attractions of the coastal area. It is home to the biggest ruins of what was a magnificent Arab-Swahili ancient town. Some of the ruins that have been discovered here include a huge mosque, a palace, various houses and deep water wells.