Kenya is one of Africa’s most well-known safari destinations. Visitors to Kenya are drawn in by the country’s wildlife and rich natural beauty. Stay at personal and deluxe safari camps and lodges on your luxury Kenyan safari, witness the popular wildebeest migration across Masai Mara or watch predators hunt unsuspecting prey. On a Kenya-guided walking safari, you will immerse yourself in nature without the distraction of a car. Enjoy views of Mount Kilimanjaro when walking in Amboseli national park.
Most Kenyan national parks and reserves, including the Masai Mara Reserve, Samburu, and Tsavo, forbid walking safaris. Walking safaris, on the other hand, are legal and growing in popularity in nearby conservancies, private ranches, and wildlife concessions across the country. Walking safaris will highlight the tiny details in the bush, such as flora and animals, footprints, culture, and landscape. Although large game is not often sighted on a walking safari, the pleasure of being on foot in the wilderness is unparalleled. There are a few camps and sites in Kenya that specialize in walking safaris and below are some of them;
Masai Mara’s Elephant Pepper Camp (North Conservancy)
Although walking is not permitted within Masai Mara National Reserve, the conservancies surrounding the reserve are permitted to offer safari walks. The Mara North Conservancy, in which Elephant Pepper Camp is located, is one of them. The flora and fauna, particularly the famous ‘elephant pepper’ trees that grow in and around the camp, are the focus of bush walks in this area. Its leaves and berries have a spicy flavor, and elephants love it along with many other medical items.
Sosian, Laikipia Plateau
Sosian is set on its private ranch in the heart of the Laikipia Plateau. Sosian provides superb wildlife viewing and recreational opportunities, including safari walks, because it has access to a large area of land. The range of landscapes offered by Sosian on a walking safari includes a magnificent path that leads you along the little waterfalls on the Ewaso Narok River; in addition to the natural plunge pools and stunning woodlands to explore.
Tortilis Camp – Amboseli National Park
Named after the natural forest of flat-topped acacia tortilis thorn trees that provide shelter, this camp is located in Kitirua Conservancy, which borders Amboseli National Park to the southwest. Because this reserve is private, the camp can provide a range of activities, including walking safaris. A walking safari in Tortilis camp allows you to get as near to the region’s wildlife as possible. Maasai guides will take you to locations frequented by elephants, wildebeest, and lions. As a special treat, you will be driven to the top of a hill at the end of this amazing game viewing experience, where you will be met with sundowners and food. Furthermore, enjoy breathtaking views offered at this camp including the beautiful views of Africa’s tallest mountain, Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.
Saruni Samburu’s Kalama Wildlife Conservancy
Saruni Samburu is located in the Kalama Community Wildlife Conservancy, just outside Samburu National Reserve. The property is situated on a breathtaking cliff top, with views that stretch for kilometers. The scenery makes you want to wander as far as the eye can see, and to some extent, you can.
Walking safaris in this region are carefully tailored to the traveler’s interests and set in stunning scenery. Walking through the valleys and plains that surround Saruni Mara and Saruni Wild with Maasai warriors, accompanied by a vehicle and a Community Ranger, is a magnificent experience. Walking safaris in Saruni also include hiking to the summit of adjacent Mount Kilileoni for some beautiful views across the plains for the more daring travelers.
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is an excellent location for fantastic game viewing and a variety of other activities, including walking safaris. Its guides and its rangers all work together to safeguard the endangered species and other animals. Walking safaris in Lewa with Masai trackers allow you to explore the rough landscapes of the conservancy. You will be able to visit locations that are inaccessible by a vehicle while riding camels, providing you with an authentic and quiet safari experience.
Best time for a Walking Safari in Kenya
The best time to visit Kenya often depends on what you want to see and do. The big wildebeest migration is best seen between July and October, especially during the hotter summer months. From March through May, try to escape the showers. However, luxury walking safaris are available all year, but be aware that severe rains from March to May can make your inland excursion more difficult. On the other hand, costs are typically lower during this time, and the lush scenery and stormy skies may be quite stunning. In general, wildlife can be spotted all year in Kenya.
