Maasai Mara National Reserve
1961
Started
1510
km² Area
Located in southwestern Kenya along the Tanzanian border, Maasai Mara spans 1,510 km² and is one of the most famous reserves in Africa. It is renowned for the Great Migration of wildebeests and zebras, and is home to the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. Best time to visit is July to October to witness the migration.
Samburu National Reserve
1985
Started
165
km² Area
Situated in northern Kenya, Samburu covers about 165 km² along the Ewaso Ng’iro River. It features arid savannahs and is known for rare species like the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and reticulated giraffe. Lions, elephants, and leopards are also common. Visit during June to October and January to March for wildlife viewing.
Buffalo Springs National Reserve
1948
Started
131
km² Area
Adjacent to Samburu, this 131 km² reserve shares similar landscapes and wildlife. It is slightly greener due to springs that provide fresh water, attracting elephants, giraffes, and a variety of birds. It’s quieter than Samburu, making it great for peaceful safaris. Best time to visit is June to October.
Shaba National Reserve
1974
Started
239
km² Area
Also neighboring Samburu, Shaba spans 239 km² and is known for its rugged terrain and volcanic features. It is home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, and endemic northern species. It was made famous by Joy Adamson’s conservation work. Visit during June to October or January to March.
Arawale National Reserve
1974
Started
533
km² Area
Located in northeastern Kenya, this reserve covers 533 km² and is rarely visited. It was established as a sanctuary for the critically endangered hirola antelope. Wildlife includes elephants, cheetahs, and hyenas. Visit during dry seasons (June to October) for accessibility.
Boni National Reserve
1976
Started
1339
km² Area
Bordering Somalia in eastern Kenya, Boni is a dense forest reserve of 1,339 km², important for biodiversity and conservation of endemic flora and fauna. Wildlife includes elephants, bush pigs, and numerous birds. Due to security concerns, visitation is restricted. Best time: December to March.
Dodori National Reserve
1976
Started
877
km² Area
Adjacent to Boni, Dodori is 877 km² of coastal forest and wetland. It protects species like elephants, buffaloes, and coastal birds. Like Boni, it is currently limited in access. Best visited in dry months (January to March) if conditions allow.
Losai National Reserve
1976
Started
1806
km² Area
Located between Marsabit and Samburu, Losai spans 1,806 km² of arid, rocky terrain. It supports elephants, antelopes, and predators like lions and leopards. Its remoteness appeals to adventurous travelers. Best visited in June to October.
Mwea National Reserve
1976
Started
42
km² Area
This small reserve in Embu County covers 42 km² and features acacia bushland and the Tana River. Hippos, crocodiles, waterbucks, and birds such as Pel’s fishing owl inhabit the area. Ideal for birdwatchers. Best time: December to April.
Rahole National Reserve
1976
Started
1295
km² Area
Adjacent to Arawale, Rahole spans 1,295 km² and is part of a conservation corridor. Wildlife includes hirola, lions, elephants, and hyenas. Due to its remoteness, infrastructure is minimal. Visit during dry months (June to October).
Bisanadi National Reserve
1974
Started
606
km² Area
Next to Meru and Kora National Parks, this 606 km² reserve serves as a buffer and dispersal area. It houses elephants, lions, cheetahs, and hippos. It’s rugged and ideal for off-the-beaten-path safaris. Best visited in June to October.
Marsabit National Reserve
1949
Started
1500
km² Area
Surrounding Marsabit National Park, this 1,500 km² reserve includes forested hills and crater lakes. Known for tusked elephants, lions, and birds, it’s accessible best in dry months (June to October).
Kakamega Forest Reserve
1985
Started
238
km² Area
Located in western Kenya, this 238 km² tropical rainforest is the last remnant of the Congo basin in Kenya. Rich in butterflies, monkeys, birds, and indigenous trees. It is a biodiversity hotspot. Visit in January to March or June to August.
South Turkana National Reserve
1979
Started
1091
km² Area
Spanning 1,091 km², this reserve lies southwest of Lake Turkana. It’s a rugged wilderness with elephants, zebras, antelopes, and predators. Great for adventurers. Best time to visit: June to October.
Nasolot National Reserve
1979
Started
920
km² Area
Located west of Lake Turkana, Nasolot is a 920 km² mountainous reserve home to elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and leopards. Its rocky ridges and scenic views appeal to hikers. Visit in dry season (June to October).