Southern Kenya safari destinations are among the most remarkable safari destinations in the Magical country. Kenya is relatively big covering a land area of 582,646 square Kilometers. It has a coastline of 490 kilometers bordering the Indian Ocean. Kenya is diverse and all the regions are impressive to Visit for wildlife, cultural, and Historical Discovery Journeys.
The southern Kenya safari region is however special having beautiful landscapes and attractions. Below are the top destinations you must not miss while on a southern Kenya safari.
Chyulu Hills National Park
Chyulu Hills are mountain ranges that stretch about 100 kilometers in southern Kenya. They are popularly known as the Green Hills of Africa because of their lush green vegetation cover. Chyulu hills are rugged mountains that were formed by volcanic activity and have their highest peak standing at 2,188 meters above sea level.
There are several attractions here starting from the hills that form an impressive pattern. Other relief features include the Kisula Cave which covers about 11 kilometers. Animal species present here include the African Rock python, elephants, leopards, Giant forest hogs, and Elands among others.
Chyulu Hills National Park can be explored on foot when on Mountain Hiking and bird-watching adventures. Mountain Biking, Horse riding, and game drives are also doable and very rewarding as you see the wildlife species present. The park also offers great views of Mount Kilimanjaro Africa’s Tallest Mountain.
Chyulu Hills are the least explored of all the southern Kenya safari destinations and therefore offer exclusive safari experiences. Such experiences are our ideal Journeys of Discovery.
Masai Mara National Reserve
Masai Mara National Reserve is Kenya’s top safari destination. The reserve comprises the Mara Triangle and the adjacent conservancies. It is famous for the wildebeest migration an annual mass animal movement that involves wildebeests, the topi, and zebras moving from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park.
Apart from the wildebeest migration, Masai Mara is a lion conservation unit with one of the highest concentrations of lions. Other big cats present here include leopards and cheetahs which are often seen while on game drives. Elephants, giraffes, hyenas, jackals, gazelles plus several bird species are also notable while on safari in Masai Mara.
The best time to Visit Masai Mara is from June to October when the Migration river crossings start. The months from November to May are great for birding and those interested in exclusive and less crowded safaris. Masai Mara is a must-visit of all the southern Kenya safari destinations as it offers a variety of experiences.
Tsavo National Parks
Tsavo National Parks comprise Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks covering a land area of about 22,000 square Kilometers. Being strategically located in the south, the two combined form Kenya’s largest protected area of rich wildlife and landscapes.
Red dusty elephants, lions, rhinos, buffaloes, leopards, and Hippos are among the notable animal species in Tsavo East National Park. With Over 500 recorded bird species, Tsavo East National Park is a prime birding safari destination. While here you can engage in several safari activities including game drives, guided nature walks, and birding among others.
Galana River is the primary water supply and many animal species gather here on a hot day to freshen up. Another outstanding attraction in the park is the Yatta Plateau. It is extensive covering over 300 kilometers.
Tsavo West National Park differs from the East and is prominent for its beautiful landscapes. Iconic attractions like the Mzima Springs, shetani lava flows, and rock outcrops will leave you wanting more adventures. Notable wildlife species here include black rhinos, elephants, lions, and leopards among others. Tsavo is also not so crowded even in the peak season and is therefore a great destination for exclusive safaris. While on your southern Kenya safari adventure, you can opt to visit one or all of the two Tsavo Parks for a true African Adventure.
Amboseli is the special one of all the Southern Kenya Safari Destinations. The park is currently among the best places in Kenya to see flamingos. It is most famous for elephants and while on safari here you can journey with these largest land mammals with an incredible view of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Discovery Journeys to Amboseli National Park are rich and diverse. On game drives in the park, you get to see wildebeests, zebras, hippos, buffaloes, hyenas, lions, and leopards among others. Leopards being solitary animals they are rarely seen but on a good day, you can surely catch up with them.
Wildlife viewing in Amboseli is possible throughout the year with the dry season providing the best viewing opportunities. The dry season here is from June to October when temporary water places dry up forcing animals to gather around marshes and permanent water supplies where they are easily spotted.
Rich local cultural experiences
The southern Kenya safari region has a rich cultural and heritage background of the Masai people. These have lived in these ecosystems alongside the wildlife and are considered to be guardians of wildlife. A Visit to the Masai Community will enable you to learn more about the local culture and their ways of life. There is a provision for homestays in case you actively want to spend some days over and actively get involved.
Some of the Safari itineraries featuring southern Kenya and other leading destinations include the 8-day Kenya safari, the 7-day Kenya wildlife and beach holiday, the 6-day magical Kenya safari, and the 5-day Kenya safari. You can also combine any of these with a Uganda gorilla Trekking adventure in Bwindi or Mgahinga Gorilla Parks.
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