Kenya is one of the worlds best safari Destinations and is renowned for an array of Spectacular safari parks and reserves. All offering a unique safari experience for different interests, however if you are looking to take your family to Kenya for a safari vacation ,3 awesome safari parks stands out for an ideal family safari Itinerary.
Here are the three Major parks and reserve that we highly recommend and some good reasons why we recomend this parks and reserves as a perfect pick for family safaris.
- Masaimara National Reserve
- Lake Nakuru National park
- Amboseli National park.
1.Masaimara national reserve comes highly recommended due to its Abundance of wildlife ,for wildlife lovers this is the place to be whether on a first time safari or visiting for a second time you get to experience all the Big five animals within a short travel time, apart from the Big five animals the park is home to the iconic wildebeest migration, if you are visiting the park between July and September you may be lucky to experience the wildebeest river crossing from the neighbouring Serengeti National park-Tanzania.
Spectacular accommodation options to choose from
Another reason to add Masai Mara to your family safari agenda is the abundance of accommodation options that is Tented camps and semi permanent safari Lodges both within and outside the Masai Mara National Reserve, families are spoiled for choice. These accommodations range from comfortable tented camps to cozy lodges equipped with modern amenities like hot showers and family-friendly cottages, ensuring a safe and convenient stay for all ages of explores.
Easily reachable by air: Masai Mara boasts 11 airstrips, offering a convenient option for flying your family directly from Nairobi’s JKIA Airport to any of these locations. This is particularly beneficial when traveling with elderly individuals or children, as it eliminates the need for long, potentially bumpy road journeys, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable travel experience for everyone.
- Lake Nakuru National park.
Lake Nakuru National park stands out as a perfect family getaway destination not only for longer safari itineraries but even for shorter trips due to the fact that the park is conveniently accessible from Kenya ’s capital at only 3 hours drive that means families traveling for safari on a short travel schedule can visit the park at no rush and still manage to secure time to drive back to Nairobi to catch a flight to other destinations. For Lake Nakuru it is not only about the Soda Lake and the pink flamingos, but also the abundance of wildlife such as the rare Rothschild’s giraffe, Black and white Rhinos, cheetahs, leopards hippopotamus and lions, the spectacular landscapes adds to the experience thanks to the great rift Valley setting. There is an estimated 450 bird species, another reason to have your family visit this park. Besides there are sustainable accommodation options such as the Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge. The park is also convenient for fly-in safaris through Naishi Airstrip located within Lake Nakuru national park.
3.Amboseli National Park
The park derives its name from the Maasai language Empusel meaning “A salty dust Place ”Amboseli National Park is another great safari destination for family safaris located 4 hours drive 240 km East of Nairobi at Loitoktok District in Kajiado County at an area of 392.06 km². if you are bringing your family to Kenya for the first time we recomend atleast 3 days of Amboseli safari, The park promises a unique blend of wildlife encounters and breath-taking landscapes, Amboseli promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Here’s why it’s an ideal choice for family adventures:
Iconic Wildlife Viewing: Amboseli is renowned for its large elephant herds roaming against the backdrop of majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. Children and adults alike will be blown away by the sight of the large herds of free ranging Elephants providing fantastic opportunities for wildlife photography and educational experiences about elephant behaviour and conservation which will go a long way in educating both young and old explorers
Family-Friendly Accommodations: The park boasts a range of family-friendly accommodations, from comfortable lodges to spacious tented camps. Many of these establishments offer amenities catering specifically to families, such as family suites, child-friendly dining options, and organized activities for kids, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for everyone. These family friendly accommodations in Amboseli National Park includes the Angama Amboseli safari Lodge, Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge, Kibo Safari Camp, Amboseli AA Lodge, and Sentrim Lodge.
Educational Opportunities: Amboseli provides excellent opportunities for children to learn about the diverse ecosystems and wildlife of Kenya. Guided nature walks, led by knowledgeable rangers, allow families to explore the park up close while learning about its flora, fauna, and the Maasai culture that inhabits the region.
Varied Activities: Beyond game drives, Amboseli offers a range of activities suitable for families, including guided bush walks, birdwatching excursions, and cultural visits to Maasai villages. These activities add depth to the safari experience, allowing families to connect with nature and local communities in meaningful ways.
Scenic Landscapes: The park’s diverse landscapes, which include savannah plains, swamps, and acacia woodlands, provide a stunning backdrop for wildlife viewing and photography. The sight of Mount Kilimanjaro towering over the plains adds to the safari experience creating unforgettable moments for families to cherish.
Accessibility: Located only 3 hours drive from Nairobi Amboseli National park is easily accessible by road or air, making it convenient for families traveling with young children or elderly relatives. The park’s proximity to other popular destinations, such as Tsavo National Park and the Maasai Mara, also allows families to combine multiple safari experiences into one trip.
How Many days do you actually need to spend on each of these parks?
Aim to Spend atleast 2 to 3 days in each safari park that will have you a maximised safari experience However, the exact duration trickles down to factors such as your travel schedule, interests, and available financial resources. Typically, a well-rounded family safari itinerary spans between 6 to 8 days.
Explore some of our top recommended Kenya family safaris to start planning your adventure.
