Game reserves in Kenya offer appealing safari experiences for Kenya wildlife safaris, just as Kenyan national parks like Nairobi National Park, Mount Kenya, or Tsavo National Park present perfect safaris.

Kenya national reserves, like Masai national reserve (plenty of predators and wildebeest migration) and Samburu game Reserve, create notable memories of Africa.

Kenya game reserves are acclaimed for their rich ecosystem diversity of animals, birds, and much more, coupled with dramatic landscapes. Country trips to Kenyan reserves can be combined with other tourism destinations.

List of All Kenya Reserves and Their Locations (Here Are 16 Best Game Reserves in Kenya.)

Here are some of the notable national parks in Kenya

Meru National Park

Mount Longonot National Park

Tsavo East National Park – Tsavo East National Park in Kenya

Mount Kenya National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park – Lake Nakuru National Park Kenya

Nairobi National Park- Nairobi National Park Kenya

Masai Mara National Reserve

Kenya Maasai Mara National Reserve is a phenomenal destination for Kenya wildlife safaris. Masai National Reserve Safari Experience is first rated among the best reserves in Kenya.

The Mara is hailed for its awe-inspiring sceneries, abounding wildlife, and the entertaining culture of the Masai people who live at the edge of the reserve. The reserve is part of Serengeti ecosystem, which is a UNESCO world heritage site.

The spotted bushes enveloping the plains of the reserve gave rise to the name Mara, which is translated in the Maa language to mean “spotted”. In recognition of the Maasai people who were ejected from the reserve, it was named Masai national Reserve, also periodically known as “The Mara”.

The Masai National Reserve spreads over a range of 1,510 square kilometers of land, It has been acknowledged as one of the world’s seven natural wonders. Migration herds travel noteworthy distances in search of finer pastures and water.

Masai national reserve is reputable for its incredible annual wildebeest migration, which takes place within the reserve and Tanzania’s Serengeti. This is an ideal game reserve in Kenya to go for Kenya wildlife tours.

Location of Masai National Reserve: Where is the Location of Masai Mara National Reserve?

In the renowned Narok County in the southwest parts of Kenya, you will discover Masai Mara Game Reserve in Rift Valley Province, which splits borders with Serengeti in Tanzania, 225 kilometers from Nairobi city.

History (Background) of Maasai Mara National Reserve

In 1961, the Mara was predominantly formed as a sanctuary, but it wasn’t until 1974 that it was converted to a reserve to further protect wildlife and its natural habitat.

Masai Mara Reserve Top Attractions

Outstandingly amazing attractions at the Maasai Mara reserve are the leading clues as to why millions of tourists travel to the reserve annually, Some of these attractions can be seen below:

Millions of Animals
The amazing world-famous Wildebeest and other antelope migration
Abundant birdlife
The fabulous Mara River
Dotted Mara Plains
Olypunyata Swamp
Scenic Mara Kopjes
Masai traditional homesteads and their culture

Wildlife Observed at the Mara National Reserve savannah plains: practically 1.5 million wildebeests, close to 500,000 Thompson’s gazelles, over 200,000 zebras and hundreds of variant antelopes can be seen in the Mara reserve.

Maasai Mara national reserve presents over 500 different species of birds as well as resident wildlife, including lions, buffalo, elephants, wildebeests, giraffes, gazelles, Topis, elands, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas, to name a few.

Masai Mara Game Reserve Activities/What to Do in Masai Mara

Possible activities to take part while in the Mara national reserve include;

Hot air balloon safaris
Game drives
Bird viewing
Exploring Mara conservancies
Cultural interactions with Masai warriors
Horseback safaris at the edge of the Mara

Luxury accommodation	Midrange accommodation	Budget accommodation
Govner’s camp	AA Mara lodge	Talek Bush camp
Eagle view camp	Keekeroko lodge	Oseki Masai Mara camp
Mara expedition camp	Mara Ngenche camp	Mara chui resort
Mahala Mzuri	Richard’s forest camp	Maji moto eco camp
Saruni Mara	Saruni wild camp	Mara sunset camp

Best (Ideal) Time to Go Visit Mara National Reserve

Wildebeest migratory herds are present from July, when they start to arrive from Serengeti through August, September and October, This is the best time to visit Mara National reserve for amazing Kenya wildlife tour.

December to February is also a fantastic time to see resident animals, while November to April is good timing for birding.

2. Samburu Game Reserve

Samburu Game Reserve is among the exclusive Kenya wildlife reserves renowned for Kenya wildlife safaris. The altitude of the reserve ranges from 800 to 1,230 meters above sea level.

Owing to its geographic location, the reserve is less crowded than other prestigious reserves in the country, offering a glimpse of authentic African wilderness during Kenya safaris. Samburu is surely one of the most amazing Kenyan reserves. Samburu Game Reserve leads in Northern Frontier conservation areas.

Samburu reserve is likewise home to particularly endangered species, including the reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, Beisa Oryx, Generuk, and Grevy zebra.

Samburu Game Reserve Location:

Samburu Reserve is positioned next to Buffalo Reserve in Northern Kenya, besides the river banks of the Ewaso N’giro River, also sometimes called Ewaso Nyiro River, in Samburu County, central Kenya.

History of Samburu Game Reserve

Formed in 1985, Samburu game reserve was created to safeguard the distinct Samburu special 5 and other wildlife enclosed within the reserve and their habitat.

Impressive Attractions at Samburu Game Reserve

Amazing tourists attractions can be spotted while undertaking safaris to Kenya Samburu game reserve, Some of these attractions are listed below:

Extraordinary landscapes
Abundant wildlife
Numerous birds
Ewaso N’giro River
Ololokwe Mountain
Singing wells
Koitogor Mountain

Samburu Game Reserve Animals: Samburu reserve shelters a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffalo, gazelles, leopards, cheetahs, and the renowned unique Samburu five species. The reserve offers some of the greatest wildlife viewing opportunities in East Africa.

BIRDS OF SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE

With relatively 390 species of birds identified, the Samburu National Reserve is a birder’s wonderland for bird enthusiasts in Kenya.

Some of the species of birds found there include the Somali ostrich, white-bellied bustard, Fischer’s starling, Lanner falcon, African fish eagle, and Great Kestrel.

Samburu Game Reserve’s Activities (What to Do at Samburu)

Activities doable at the Samburu Wildlife Reserve include:

Wildlife game drives
Birdwatching
Guided nature walks
Camel rides
Picnics
Sundowners
Cultural encounters

Where to Sleep at Samburu Game Reserve

Tourists will make a choice of where to sleep at Samburu Reserve depending on their budget. Some of the options can be seen below:

Luxury Accommodation	Midrange Accommodation	Budget Accommodation
Saruni Safari Lodge	Samburu Game Lodge	Samburu Guest House
Elephant Bedroom Camp	Samburu Sopa Lodge	Umoja Campsite
Sarova Shaba Game Lodge	Samburu Elephant Lodge	Camel’s gate Lodge
Samburu Intrepids	Saruni Rhino	Samburu Simba Lodge
Ashnil Samburu Camp	Lion King Safari Bush Camp	Moti Pearl Hotel

When is the Best Time to Go to Samburu Game Reserve?

Drier months (June to October and December to March) are great for visits to the spectacular Samburu Game Reserve, These months offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities since animals’ gather in perennial water sources.

3. Shaba Game Reserve

Shaba Game Reserve is famed among the best reserves in Kenya due to its abundant wildlife and flora, which includes dry savannah grasslands, riverbank forests, sporadic woodlands, and volcanic hills filled with wildlife.

Shaba Game Reserve is celebrated for serving as the backdrop for notable films including Born Free, Out of Africa, and Survivor: Africa, showcasing its exceptional diversity.

Location and History (Background) of Shaba Game Reserve

Created in 1974, Shaba Reserve, which borders Samburu and Buffalo Reserves, is found in the northern region of Kenya.

Attractions at Shaba Game Reserve

Outstanding attractions at Shaba game reserve include the following:

Animal life
Birdlife
Exceptional sceneries

Animals found at Shaba Game Reserve dry savannah plains: Grevy’s zebra, elephants, leopards, lions, giraffes, klipspringers, Generuk, spotted and stripped hyenas, Elands, impalas, and many others are some of the animals tourists can see at the reserve.

Approximately 490 species of birds, including the uncommon William lark, are among the other birds found in Shaba Game Reserve. Other birds include:

Yellow vented eremomela, singing bush lark, Somali ostrich, golden pipit, bare-eyed thrush eye and acacia tit, to name a few.

Activities: Shaba Game Reserve

During Kenya tours to Shaba Game Reserve, activities tourists can choose to engage in the unspoilt wilderness include;

Bird viewing
Game drives
Visit the local communities for authentic cultural encounters
Nature walks
Hiking

Accommodations at Shaba Game Reserve

Tourists exploring Shaba game reserve are limited to only 2 accommodation options; they can choose to stay at: Sarova Shaba Game Lodge or Joy’s Camp. Nevertheless, there are still more options at the neighboring reserves.

Best Time To Go To Shaba Game Reserve

June through September is the ideal season to explore Shaba Game Reserve. December through February is ideal for wildlife safaris, while November through April is ideal for bird-viewing safaris.

4. The Scenic Buffalo springs Game Reserve

Among the renowned Kenya wildlife reserves, this national reserve is ranked among the top 5 offering upscale Kenya wildlife safaris.

The impressive natural pool Buffalo Springs, at the reserve’s westernmost point, is the inspiration behind its name.

Location and History of Buffalo Game Reserve

This reserve is positioned 131 kilometers south of the great Samburu National Reserve at Isiolo district in Eastern province, central Kenya, north of Nairobi capital city. It was gazetted in 1948.

Primary Attractions found at Buffalos National Reserve

Unique attractions in the spectacular scenery of the national reserve are named below:

Buffalo (springs) pool

Birds
Wildlife
Ewaso N’giro River
Unique Flora
Samburu people and their culture

Among numerous animals found at the reserve, some are leopards, lions, elephants, Grevy’s and Grant’s zebras, cheetahs, hippos and many others.

The scenic reserve is home to 390 different kinds of birds, including the white-bellied bustard, black-capped social weaver, palm nut vulture, Acacia tit, martial eagle, pink-breasted lark, golden pipit, spotted palm thrush, chestnut-headed sparrow and Egyptian vulture, among the rest.

Tourists Activities at the Reserve

leading activities tourists love to do at Buffalo Reserve are: game watching, avian safaris, walking tours, cultural interactions and so much more.

When to Explore Buffalo Reserve

When wildlife is gathered near the park’s main water points, which is from June to September as well as January and December, these are the finest times to visit.

Lodging In Buffalo Reserve

Among the places to stay at the Reserve are:

Silver Bells Hotel
Ashnil Samburu Camp
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp,
Surana

5. Shimba Hills National Reserve, Kwale

With more than a thousand divergent plant species, Shimba reserve is one of the most beautiful wildlife areas in Kenya, home to one of East Africa’s splendid coastal forests recognized as an Important Birding Area.

Kenya safari visits to Mombasa can be joined with a tour to Shimba Hills Reserve in Kenya and Tsavo west as well.

Shimba National Reserve Attractions

Scenic attractions spread out at Shimba Hills Natural Beauty include the following:

Coastal forests
Sable antelopes and other wildlife
Sheldrick waterfalls
Elephant Hill
Mwaluganje elephant sanctuary
Chitsanze waterfalls
Picturesque sceneries

Hyenas, elephants, sable antelopes, water bucks, Coastal Black and White Colobus Monkeys, Knob-Bristled Suni Shrews, Serval cats, Sykes monkeys, Bush bucks, Bush infants, and leopards are among the animals found at Shimba Hills Reserve.

Twenty-two of the more than 100 bird species known to exist in Shimba Hills are rare birds indigenous to the coast, including Sooty gull, masked booby, Caspian plover, Somali courser, Sokoke scops owl, Taita apalis and dimorphic egret, among others.

Shimba Game Reserve Activities

Among the activities to participate in while at Shimba hills reserve are:

Hiking
Bird watching
Wildlife viewing in safari vehicles
Forest walks

Where to Stay At Shimba Hills

While on Kenya safari at the coast and visiting Shimba Hills, you can stay at a number of hotels, including Kwale Golden Guest House, Kutazama Lodge, Shimba Hills Lodge, and Shimba Green Lodge.

Best Time to Go to Shimba Hills National Reserve

Although Shimba Hills Reserve is open year-round, June through September and December through February are the finest times to visit.

6. Lake Bogoria National Reserve

One of the country’s most picturesque wildlife reserves is Lake Bogoria National Reserve, located at the scenic rift valley escarpments. The magnificent Lake Bogoria, from which the reserve gets its name, is the main feature at the reserve.
The flamboyant flamingos, together with 135 other kinds of birds and expansive views, are what make Lake Bogoria national reserve one of the most beautiful reserves in Kenya.

The reserve is 107 square kilometers in size, of which 34 square kilometers are submerged in waters of Lake Bogoria.

Location of Lake Bogoria National Reserve

Lake Bogoria national reserve is perfectly positioned at the base of the Great Rift Valley in Baringo County, northern Kenya, with beautiful, diverse landscapes.

Historical Background of Lake Bogoria National Reserve

In order to protect the splendid lake Bogoria and its beautiful surroundings, a reserve was created in 1970. UNESCO also considered it worth adding the reserve to its list of Unesco World Heritage Sites in 1999.

In 2001, Lake Bogoria national reserve was added in the list of Ramsar sites. Gregory J.W. considered Lake Bogoria to have the most beautiful views during his visit in 1892.

What are Lake Bogoria National Reserve Attractions?

The outstandingly gorgeous attractions in Lake Bogoria National Reserve include;

Lake Bogoria
Numerous flamingos and other birds
Hot springs
Animals
Kesubo marsh,
Ngendelel escarpments

What are the activities at the National Reserve of Lake Bogoria?

Commonly done tourists activities by travellers to Lake Bogoria national reserve can be seen below:

Bird watching
Bicycling
Exploring hot springs
Wildlife viewing
Boat cruises
Guided game drives and nature walks

Where to Stay While At Lake Bogoria National Reserve

Tourists undertaking a safari in Kenya to Lake Bogoria National Reserve can stay at the following places:.

Acacia Campsite: Budget
Riverside Campsite: Budget
Lake Bogoria Zakayos Hotel, Midrange
Lake Bogoria Spa Resort, Midrange

When to Explore Lake Bogoria National Reserve

At the time of the year when flamingos breed, which usually occurs from August to February and the lake’s water levels are low, is the ideal time to visit Lake Bogoria national reserve.

7. Rimoi National Reserve

Rimoi national reserve boasts panoramic views over an area of 66 square kilometers, Rimoi National Reserve is one of top 10 national reserve(s) in Kenya, a hidden gem well worth seeing during Kenya trips.

Location and History of Rimoi National Reserve

The scenic Rimoi National Reserve is based at the rift valley escarpments boasting preeminent views in Elgeyo Marakwet County, western Kenya. The reserve was initially gazetted in 1983 and reestablished recently in 2016.

Rimoi National Reserve’s Attractions

Among the attractions at the Rimoi National Reserve, the most notable ones are listed below:

Kerio Valley
Elgeyo Escarpment
Kerio River,
Lake Kamnarok
Wildlife
Cheptarit Hill
Birds
Tugen Hills
Cheregani Hills
Lake Kainarok

Rimoi National Reserve animals include elephants, zebras, giraffes, pangolins, impalas, dik-dik, bush pigs, genets, and warthogs.

Rimoi National Reserve Activities

Activities that tourists can participate in while at Rimoi national reserve include

Game viewing
Bird watching
Camping
Hiking
Nature walks

Accommodation at Rimoi National Reserve

Rimoi national reserve lacks standard accommodation except for camping, although tourists can sleep at better accommodation options outside the park, as seen below:

Too guest house
Samich Resort
Koiklebel homestay
Lelin campsites
Kerio Valley Lodge
Sego Safari Lodge

Best Time to Visit Rimoi National Reserve

The best time to visit Rimoi National Reserve is in July and August, when the weather is favorable for park activities.

8. Mwingi National Reserve

Mwingi National Reserve serves as a buffer zone for animals voyaging amid two Kenya national parks and one game reserve. With an area of 745 square kilometers, Mwingi, a unique national game reserve in Kenya, is under the Meru conservation area.

Location and History of Mwingi National Reserve

Mwingi National Reserve is located east of Mount Kenya, contiguous to Meru Park, in Mwingi District, Eastern Province of Central Kenya. The reserve dates back to the 1980s, when naturalist’s conservationists Joy and George Adamson lived in the reserve.

Mwingi National Reserve Attractions

The reserve offers a variety of attractions, such as:

Birds
Animals
Ngomeni Rock
Tana River
George Adamson Bridge
Breathtaking scenery.

Animals at Mwingi National Reserve include elephants, caracals, leopards, hippos, lions, and crocodiles, among many other animals.

Mwingi National Reserve Activities

Activities for tourists to do in Mwingi Game Reserve include:

Wildlife watching
Fishing
Boat trips
Bird watching
Picnics
Camel back safaris
Camping

Lodging At Mwingi National Reserve

Hotels can be booked in Thika or Mwingi towns, as well as lodges in Meru Park. For visitors on a tour of Mwingi National Reserve, there is no accommodation inside the reserve except camping.

9. Dodori National Reserve

During tours in Kenya, Dorori offers a distinctive holiday experience. An essential Kenyan game reserve to immerse oneself in both wildlife and credible Swahili culture in a Kenya trip.

History and Location of Dodori national reserve

In 1976, Dodori National Reserve was founded in Kenya’s coastal province, close to Lamu Island. UNESCO recognized Dodori as a human and biosphere reserve in 1980.

Attractions at Dodori National Reserve

The 877-square-kilometer Dorori National Reserve is made up of attractions such as

Coastal beaches
Mangrove forests
Wildlife, including marine life
Birds

The Dodori National Reserve Activities

Activities for tourists to engage in while at the Dodori National Reserve include:

Birdwatching
Game drives
Cultural interactions.

The fauna of Dodori encompasses a variety of species, including lesser kudus, sea turtles, sea cows, gazelles, zebras, elephants, buffalos, lions, adder’s duiker, and coastal Topi.

Lodging at Dodori Reserve

Whereas there is no accommodation available at the Dodori National Reserve, visitors can stay at Lamu coast hotels and resorts that are close by.

Best Time to Go Visit Dodori Reserve

Dodori National Reserve is open destination year-round; however, visitors should utilize four-wheel-drive vehicles during the dry season to avoid getting trapped in the mud.

10. Bisanadi National Reserve

Bisanadi National Reserve offers upscale African bush safaris in contrast to other crowded Kenyan Reserves. This is one of the best Kenyan national reserve to explore.

History and Location of Bisanadi National Reserve

Bisanadi is situated neighboring Meru National Park in Isiolo County, Kenya. It was gazetted as a Kenyan national reserve in 1979.

Bisanadi National Reserve’s Attractions

The Park offers a variety of attractions, such as;

Animals
Birds
Tana River
Rojewero River
Stunning scenery.

Animals in Bisanadi: Bisanadi National Reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including cheetahs, impalas, elands, hartebeests, and wildebeests, among many other species

With over 400 species of known birds, Bisanadi is a birder’s dream. The reserve is home to various birds, such as the brown-backed pecker, augur bustard, pels fishing owl, African fish eagles, and malachite kingfishers, to name few.

The Bisanadi National Reserve’s Activities

Sport fishing, birdwatching, cultural exchanges, and game viewing are among the activities offered at the Bisanadi National Reserve.

Accommodation at the National Reserve of Bisanadi

While there isn’t standard lodging available inside Bisanadi National Reserve, visitors can stay at lodges outside the reserve close to Meru Park or nearby towns.

Some of the campsites to stay in include:

Murera springs eco Lodge
Rhino river camp
Elsa’s Kopjes

11. Boni National Reserve

Boni forest which is the major attraction at the reserve, has such a broad collection of flora that it is one of the designated hotspots for biodiversity to visit during safari in Kenya.

Location and History of Boni National Reserve

Boni National Reserve, spanning 1,339 square kilometers, was created in 1976 in Kenya’s Garissa County, at the Eastern part of the country.

Attractions found in Boni National Reserve

Amazing tourist attractions at Boni national park include the following:

Boni Forest
Animals
Birds
Outstanding landscapes
Indian Ocean

Boni National Reserve’s Activities

Boni National Reserve offers a variety of activities for tourists, some of which can be seen below:

Wildlife watching
Birdwatching
Guided nature walks and hikes
Cultural experiences

African bush elephants, buffalo, hippos, African wild dogs, duikers, warthogs, bush pigs, and aardwolves are among the wildlife that can be spotted at Boni National Reserve.

When is the best time to go to Boni National Reserve?

Boni National Reserve is open all year round, though during the rainy season, some roads may become impassable so it’s convenient to go during the dry season. Tourists daring to visit in the wet season should use four-wheel-drive vehicles.

12. Witu Forest Reserve

Witu Forest Reserve, which is native to several species of birds and endangered plant species, is spread across an area of roughly 47 km2 in Lamu, coastal Kenya. This is among the top 10 wildlife reserves to visit for a Kenyan holiday.

History and Location of Witu Forest Reserve

The beautiful Witu Forest Reserve is based in Lamu region of coastal Kenya. It was set up in 1962 to grant elephants traveling between Kipini Conservancy and Dodori National Reserve a passage for migration.

Major Attractions at Witu Forest Reserve

Among the tourist attractions at Witu forest reserve are:

Witu forest
Large herds of elephants
Birds
Other primates and birds

Witu Forest National Reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, buffalos, gazelles, forest elephants, smaller kudus, and hartebeests.

The reserve also hosts variant bird species such as Cassin’s honey bird, crowned eagle, and happy greenbul, among others.

When is the Best Time to Go to Boni National Reserve?

The dry months of June to August and December to February are ideal for visiting Witu Forest because the pathways are less muddy and slippery during the dry season, making it easier for tourists to drive through and participate in reserve activities.

Packing List for Boni National Reserve

Visitors to Boni national reserve should have a packed lunch, raincoats, bug repellents, and sturdy hiking boots.

Lodging in Boni National Reserve

While there are no lodging options within the Witu Forest Reserve, visitors can stay at neighboring lodges outside the reserve or, alternatively, pitch camps at designated camping sites.

13. Kakamega Forest National Reserve

In Kenya’s Nandi County, the last remaining remnants of tropical rainforests from Central Africa are preserved at the Kakamega Forest National Reserve. The reserve is 45 km2 in size.
Amazingly 400 butterfly species, astounding 330 bird species, 380 different tree species, astonishing 27 snake species, and 7 unique primate species are present at the reserve.

Location and History of Kaka mega Forest National Reserve

This reserve, which is situated in Nandi County, Kenya, was formed in 1985.

Outstanding Kakamega Reserve Attractions

Among the unique attractions in the Forest Reserve are:

Kakamega rainforest canopy

Buyangu hill
Isiuku waterfalls
Primates
Birds
Picturesque undulating terrain
Butterflies

Kaka Mega Forest is home to a variety of wildlife species, including Gabon vipers, rhino horned vipers, gigantic forest hogs, De Brazza monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, bush pigs, blue monkeys, and forest cobras.

Kaka Mega Forest Reserve Activities (Things to Do)

While visiting Kakamega reserve, visitors can partake in a variety of activities, such as;

Hiking
Bird watching
Forest prime walks
Camping
Picnicking
Game viewing
Rock climbing

Where to Stay in Kaka mega Forest Reserve

The ideal way to experience Kaka Mega Forest Reserve is by camping; however, travellers can also spend nights in lodges like Rondo Retreat Center, Isukuti Guest House, Senel Guest House, Ischeno Keep Bandas, and Gold Hotel Kaka Mega.

14. Rahole National Reserve

Rahole national Reserve can be visited in conjunction with a visit to Kora National Park. It boasts an area of 1270 square kilometers, defined by savannah grasslands, prickly plants, and extraordinary scenery.

Location and History of Rahole National Reserve

Rahole reserve is nestled in Garissa district on the banks of Tana River in Northeastern Kenya. The reserve was founded in 1968.

Rahole National Reserve attractions

Rahole reserve boasts a variety of attractions, such as:

Wildlife
Birds
Expansive views

Animals Found at Rahole National Reserve: Rahole National Reserve creates a habitat for the following: grevy zebras, Beisa Oryx, hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and many others.

Rahole National Reserve Activities

In the Rahole National Reserve, visitors can do the following activities:

Bush camping
Guided nature excursions
Observe birds and wildlife.

Accommodation at the Rahole National Reserve

Rahole National Reserve does not offer lodging; however, visitors are welcome to stay at some of the lodges outside the reserve.

When is the best time to go to Rahole National Reserve?

Rahole National Reserve is open year-round but the best times to visit are in the dry months of June through August and December through February, when the weather is ideal for activities at the reserve.

15. Mwea National Reserve

Embu County is home to the 42-km Mwea National Reserve, which rises to an elevation of 1,100 –1,000 meters above sea level. Although it’s not as well-known, this is still a worthwhile national reserve in Kenya.

Mwea National Reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, birds, rivers, distinctive vegetation, and undulating hills. Trips to Mwea can be accompanied by a visit to Nairobi National Park.

Location and History of Mwea National Reserve

Established in 1975, Mwea is one of Kenya’s pristine conservation areas, boasting tremendous wildlife. The absence of tourists means you will have a wonderful Kenya holiday tour in Mwea.

This is one of the closest reserves to the capital city of Nairobi, accessible in 2 to 3 hours.

Amazing Attractions found at Mwea National Reserve

Of the attractions at Mwea National Reserve, some of them include:

Wildlife
Spectacular sceneries
Birds
Rivers
Rolling hills

Mwea National Reserve Animals: Mwea National Reserve’s animals to see during hiking and nature hikes include black-backed jackals, hippos, giraffes, buffalos, zebras, waterbucks, bush bucks, and lesser kudus.

Mwea National Reserve Activities
Among other things to do at Mwea National Reserve are:

Boat cruises
Camping
Bird watching
Wildlife observation

Accommodation in Mwea National Reserve

There are no conventional lodging alternatives available within the Mwea National Reserve but the following campsites are readily available for tourists to pitch their tents:

Sylvester campsite
Kyangosi camping site
Mbogo campsite
Mavuria campsite
Githechu campsite,
Hippo Point camping site
Githechu camping site.

The Ideal Time of Year to Visit Mwea National Reserve

June through August and December through February are the driest and best months to visit Mwea National Reserve.

16. Arawale National Reserve

The only population of the severely endangered Hunter’s hartebeest, also called the Hirola, in north-eastern Kenya may be found in Arawale national reserve, which makes it special safari destination for Kenyan trips.

Location and History of Arawale National Reserve

Arawale National Reserve is located in Kenya’s northeastern county of Garissa. In 1973, Arawale national reserve was principally formed to protect endangered Hirola antelopes.

Attractions at Arawale National Reserve

Major attractions tourists can spot at Arawale national reserve include:

Animals, including hunter’s hartebeests
Numerous bird species
Great sceneries

Arawale National reserve Animals: Arawale National Reserve is a superb location for Kenya safaris; among the uncommon animals seen there are the Grevy’s zebra, Eastern African wild dog, Hirola antelope, cheetahs, lions, and elephants.

List of other Reserves in Kenya (Wildlife conservation areas)

Tana primate reserve
Kiunga marine national reserve in south-west Kenya
Lake Kamnarok national reserve
Kora national reserve
Losai national reserve
Marsabit national reserve near lake paradise
South Kitui national Reserve is close to Tsavo east national park
Mumoni hill forest reserve
Nyambere national reserve
Nasalot national reserve
South Turkana national reserve
Diani Chale marine national reserve
Ngai Ndeithia national reserve near Tsavo east national reserve in the Tsavo National Park Area
Mount Kipiriri forest reserve close to Aberdare national park
Sweetwaters chimpanzee sanctuary

Other Kenyan conservation areas (wildlife parks and wildlife conservation areas) not to miss during the Kenya Wildlife Reserve Safari include the following:

Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru national park is among the premium national parks in East Africa, Positioned at the floor of the rift valley dominated by the splendid Lake Nakuru, the park is birders haven and a preeminent bird enthusiast’s destination.

Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park is a fantastic wildlife conservation area, protecting large herds of elephants (some of the world’s largest population), divergent animals, and birds with fabulous views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Meru national park

Meru National Park is ranked among the awesome national parks to visit in Kenya. The park has an intriguing history of Elsa the lioness and conservationist couples. Meru Park protects diverse animals and birds.

Nairobi national park
Tsavo national parks ( Tsavo west national park and Tsavo East National park)
Mount Kenya national park
Aberdare national park
Marsabit national park (northern Kenya)
Sibiloi national park in Lake Turkana shores
Lake Naivasha national park
Mombasa and Watamu marine parks

FAQs about Visiting Game Reserves in Kenya:

1. Which is the largest game reserve in Kenya?

The largest game reserve in Kenya, which is nestled at the edge of the Great Rift Valley in south-western Kenya, is Masai national reserve. The Mara’s endless dotted plains envelop 1510 square kilometers (Kenya’s land area) of outstanding natural beauty brimming with wildlife.

Other largest game reserves after the Mara can also be explored during Kenyan trips.

2. How Many National Reserves are there In Kenya?

A total of 28 wildlife reserves are protected in Kenya. The most notable ones include Masai National Reserve, Samburu Game Reserve, and Kakamega Forest Reserve, among the rest.

3. Which is the most Famous Game Reserve in Kenya?

Masai National Reserve is unquestionably the most famous game reserve in Kenya. The Mara is famous for liberal wildebeest’s migration, native wildlife and wondrous views. The Mara is often visited compared to most national parks.

4. What Is The Smallest Game Reserve In Kenya?

The smallest game reserve in Kenya is the spectacular Mwea national Reserve, spread on an area of only 42 kilometers squared in Embu County, Kenya, featuring dramatic landscapes.

5. What is the difference between a national park and a game reserve in Kenya?

In most cases, diverse wildlife species are present in parks compared to reserves. National parks are also usually larger than game reserves. However. Both Kenyan national parks and reserves are good for holidays.

6. Which is the best game reserve in Kenya?

Of all the reserves named in the country, the best reserve in Kenya is the attractive Masai Mara game reserve.

7. Are there private game reserves in Kenya?

Yes, Kenya has some private game reserves (privately owned and managed). These reserves come in conservancies and sanctuaries located at the edge of most conservation areas.

In conclusion, reserves in Kenya are some of the best tourist destinations to go during Kenya safari tours. Kenya wildlife reserves favor budget travellers because entry fee is normally cheaper compared to national safari parks.

Tourists can explore national safari parks such as Tsavo west and reserves in Kenya during one safari, even business travellers can still get wilderness experiences at Nairobi national park.