Something happens when we step into the wild. Our anxiety decreases and our shoulders
loosen up. Child-like curiosity is stirred up as we drive through the parks or reserves
anticipating to see a wild animal we have never seen before. Perhaps it is the magnificence
of wild creatures that humbles the humanity in us.
Or maybe it is the vastness of the land ahead subtly reminding us that in this world, there are
things bigger than us. Whatever the case may be, safaris have always been one of the most
satisfying activities. In Africa, one may be spoiled for choice when it comes to picking the
best national park or reserve as many of them tick the spectacular box.
Here are some of Africa’s best national parks and reserves.
Amboseli National Park
The Amboseli National Park is found in Kenya. It overlooks the huge Mt Kilimanjaro, Africa’s
highest mountain. So breathtaking is this mountain that one may be unable to look away.
Often you will find huge elephants herding with a backdrop of the mountain. Amboseli is also
known for having a variety of birds including the Uganda cranes who walk in twos. Should
you visit the park, make a point of asking your guide why that is the case. The park also
boasts of having the big five making it one of the premier national parks in Kenya. Amboseli
also offers a great opportunity for visitors to interact with the Maasai community who dot
parts of the park dressed in their famous red shukas. The Maa community plays an integral
part in the conservation of Amboseli National Park.
Serengeti National Park.
The famous Serengeti is located in Tanzania. You must have heard of it being referred to as
the home of the great migration. Well, that is true. The Serengeti hosts thousands of
wildebeest that are known to migrate into Kenya’s Maasai Mara every year around August.
So unbelievable is this show that it was named the eighth wonder of the world. It would be
unfair to name the animals found here as they are countless really. At the Serengeti, there is
an animal for everyone. From the big Elephants, giraffes, and lions, to the small endangered
birds. All of them co-exist in this beautiful park.
Maasai Mara game reserve
By now you know that you cannot mention the Serengeti without talking about Maasai Mara.
This is the most famous game reserve in Kenya. It is said to continuously attract hordes of
tourists every year. So famous is the park that Narok County, its host county sustains itself
from the revenue collected at the Maasai Mara. One of the most spectacular events
witnessed at the park is the migration of wildebeest from the Serengeti. It is jaw-opening to
witness the animals attempt to cross the Mara River, normally infested by large African
crocodiles. While many of the wildebeest make it to the other side, many are feasted upon
by the bloodthirsty crocodiles. Away from the wildebeest, Maasai Mara has some of the
largest lions in Africa. It also boasts of hosting other members of the cat family including the
cheetahs and leopards.
Chobe National Park
If you are an elephant lover like me, then you know that seeing herds of elephants never
gets old. So where would you get a large herd of elephants you may ask? Chobe National
Park. That’s right. The park located in Botswana has the largest number of elephants in
Africa. It is also one of the places you will see the highest variety of wildlife. The park has
lush green vegetation owing to the number of waterways passing through it. This is perfect for
attracting animals, especially during the dry season giving you a front-row seat to some of the
rare wild animals. It is the perfect combination of land and water as it offers day boat trips as
well. Talk of variety and having a great time.
Kruger National park
It is one of Africa’s largest game reserves. Located in South Africa, Kruger national park is
arguably the largest and most sought-after reserve in Africa. From the big five, birds of
endangered species, indigenous trees, you name it, Kruger has it all. Due to the large
wildlife population, Kruger has set up webcams around the reserve that aids to monitor the
animals at all times. This also keeps poachers at bay. Although all animals are strictly
protected, the rhinoceros is one of the most monitored animals as it is endangered. Many
who have been to Kruger national reserve can attest that you never go back the same way
you came. The experience in itself is life-changing, to say the least.
Lake Nakuru National Park
Some call it the home of the pink flamingos, others refer to it as the bird watchers’ paradise.
While to some, Lake Nakuru National Park is the rhino’s sanctuary. Well, I am here to tell you
that this national park in Kenya is all three. As the name suggests, Lake Nakuru
national park hosts the grand Lake Nakuru which is the home of the lesser flamingos. The
birds line up the Lake giving it a spectacular pink lining. Lake Nakuru national park also has
one of the largest varieties of birds in Africa. Bird lovers drawn from other parts of the world
converge at this park to scout the rare bird species. The park is also home to the protected
black rhino and has the largest number of black rhinos in Kenya. This triple threat makes
Lake Nakuru national park is a must-visit, for any wildlife lover.
