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10 Things That Will Inspire You to Add a Kenya Safari to Your Bucket-List

With its diverse landscapes, rare wildlife, and welcoming people, there are few places on earth like Kenya. The beauty of this country has been untouched and unseen by so many tourists, making Kenya a spectacular place to visit, and a photographer's dream.

By: Tori Marsh + Save to a List

10. The Big 5

Obviously, this is the biggest reason why so many travel long distances to visit Kenya. In case you're wondering, the big 5 includes lion, elephants, cape buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros. Seeing these animals in their natural habitat is spectacular!

9. The Great Migration

Every year from July to October, thousands of wildebeest migrate from their home in the Sarengeti National Reserve to The Maasai Mara in Kenya. Although the wildebeest aren't the most intelligent of animals, and seem to run around aimlessly, they often move in an organized single file line. It is spectacular and hilarious to watch! If you're lucky (and patient enough) you also might be able to catch a river crossing! 

8. Cats and Cubs

Really the only way for us in the US to see big cats is to go to the zoo. In Kenya however, it is quite common to stumble upon lions, cheetah, and leopard. Since some of them are actually quite lazy, you will most likely find them sleeping. But if you're lucky, you might be able to catch them stalking prey, or playing with their cubs!

7. The Birds

For all of you bird lovers, Kenya has a large number of species, some that can only be found there. Safari-goers can expect to see beautiful birds like ostrich, spoonbill, and ibis!

6. The Hot Air Balloon Rides

Where else can you see elephants, zebra, giraffe, and hippo from a hot air ballon? In Kenya, and especially in the Masaai Mara, a multitude of companies take people out for sunrise and sunset rides. From the balloon you'll see the animals from a different vantage point, and see the the Mara come to life. And even better, the majority of these companies offer a champagne breakfast with the tour! Views, adult drinks, and animals... what more can you ask for?

5. The Herds of elephants

Amboseli National Reserve, in Kenya's Rift Valley Peninsula, is known as the best place to see one of the largest free-range herds of elephants. If you're as obsessed with these gentle creatures as I am, then Kenya is the place to see them. Don't be surprised if you find your safari van surrounded by at least 100 elephants!

4. Eco-Tourism

Not only is Kenya a beautiful place, but it is also home to many conservancies that work incredibly hard to protect the wildlife and the environment. The eco-tourism groups, land owners, local tribes, and conservancies all work together to provide income for the local people and protect the wildlife from poaching. 

3. The Sunrises

The early bird gets the worm! Kenyan sunrises are truly spectacular. For one, there are no buildings and light pollution to obstruct your view, and you can also track the big 5 as the sun comes up!

2. Mt. Kenya

Mt. Kenya may not be as high as Mt Kilimanjaro, but it is the highest peak in Kenya! Climbing this beast is no easy feat, as it towers at 17,057 ft., but it sure provides a staggering background for the animal photos.

1. The people

Many people flock to Kenya in search of the animals, but the Kenyan people are just as amazing!

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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