Kenya provides spectacular scenery and fantastic opportunities to view animals in their natural environment. The so-called ‘big five’ animal types are abundant in Kenya, but you may be fortunate enough to see some rarer species as well.
Throughout August to October, most widely known as the ‘Dry Season’, you can see the famous wildebeest migration between the Masai Mara National Reserve and the Serengeti. The must-see highlight being the famous Mara River crossing.
Safari trips to Kenya arguably provide the best opportunities to see wild animals anywhere in the world. The numerous national parks, lakes, and nature reserves provide a stunning backdrop that will deliver an unforgettable experience.
What Animals are Found in Kenya?
There is an abundance of ‘big five’ animal varieties in Kenya and the surrounding Kenya-Tanzania border. These include lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino. Hyenas are also commonly seen across many of the national parks.
Occasionally, you might see white rhinos and cheetahs. Animals like the wild dog and black rhino are few and far between, although it is not impossible to catch a glimpse if you are lucky enough. So don’t forget a high-quality camera.
Below is a list of animals found in Kenya and their level of abundance in the wild:
- Elephant — Abundant
- Hippo — Abundant
- Giraffe — Abundant
- Zebra — Abundant
- Buffalo — Abundant
- Wildebeest — Abundant
- Hyena — Common
- Lion — Common
- White Rhino — Occasional
- Leopard — Occasional
- Cheetah — Occasional
- Black Rhino — Rare
- Wild Dog — Very rare
Best Times To See Kenya’s Wildlife
It is possible to view excellent examples of wildlife all year round in Kenya. But the best time to visit is the Dry Season, mainly encompassing June to October. The wildebeest migration typically occurs during this time, most often between July and September, depending on the amount of rainfall.
Wildebeest migration
Undoubtedly the most impressive example of wildlife in Kenya is the wildebeest migration from the Serengeti and across the Mara River to Masai Mara National Reserve. This is widely known as the world’s largest animal migration. It is truly a breathtaking sight to behold and a must-see for all safari travellers.
Typically one to two million animals cross during the Dry Season. The majority of these animals are wildebeest, but gazelles and zebras can also be viewed on a regular basis. The best time to witness this fantastic spectacle is July to September when the animals begin to move between the Serengeti and Mara ecosystems.
Want to visit Kenya? Contact Explorer Kenya today!
At Explorer Kenya, we specialise in Kenya safari holidays for individuals, couples, and groups. Our flexible packages let you fully customise your trip to meet your exact requirements and budget. Popular destinations include Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Mombasa, and Lake Naivasha, plus many locations in Tanzania.
We are a TripAdvisor Multiple Award winning company with decades of experience. Get in touch with us today for more details and to book your Kenyan safari holiday.
