The Masai Mara National Reserve, a never-ending swath of sunbaked grassland, should not be missed on any trip to Kenya. Approximately two million wildebeests, zebras, topis, and stampedes from the Serengeti during the famous Great Migration, which culminates here between July and October. In addition to its most well-known attraction, the Masai Mara is home to the planet’s largest concentration of lions, who prowl the grasses alongside giraffes, impala, elephants, and countless other animals in this breathtaking wilderness.

One of Kenya’s great success stories is the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, which is located in the slopes of Mount Kenya. In 1983, the number of rhinos in Lewa was at a critical 15 because of poaching. In the secure savannah the conservancy has established, more than 160 white and black rhinos are now thriving. For wildlife, it is on par with the Masai Mara, and its rangers will take you on safari drives so you can get up close and personal with its well-known inhabitants. Grevy’s zebras, cheetahs, hyenas, and the “Big Five” (elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, and rhino) all make this sanctuary home, so it’s not just rhinos who have benefited from Lewa’s excellent work.

Look no further than Laikipia for a taste of Africa. Although it has wildlife that can compete with any other place in the nation, like Grevy’s zebras and rhinos, this place is all about the experience. You may experience this old patchworked scenery of semi-arid plains and acacia-blanketed hills in great detail when you stay in colonial bush dwellings. The Samburu people, however, may be the real attraction in this area. These lodges serve as entranceways to their culture and traditions, where you can see warrior dances and expert bead makers at work.

This hidden national park has a new view around every corner, including riverine woods, lakes, cloud forests, and wide savannahs. The ancient lava flows that once surrounded the volcanic emerald contours that gave rise to the name Chyulu Hills have long ago cooled, yet they are nevertheless rich in folklore. Searching for leopards, elephants, and buffaloes in the wild while they are all being watched over by the legendary, steep slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro is a genuine adventure on safari game drives in these changeable landscapes.

Kenya’s coastline along the Indian Ocean is the best way to round off a trip filled with unforgettable safari experiences because it perfectly combines nature and history. Straight from the beach, snorkelers can explore the colorful coral reefs that line its flour-white curves, which are filled with tropical species. While its beaches now entice tourists, they previously attracted the Arab spice traders of old, whose influence can still be felt. There are numerous forts dotting the coastline, and you can still enjoy traditional dhow rides around the bay, which are significant to Swahili culture.