Even the most popular and loved travel destinations still require a bit of context and research to get the
best out of. Safari in Africa will forever be one of the MVPs of the travel game and given the size and
diversity of the continent, the choice and scope within this niche is still vast.

A foolproof choice, if you’re a first timer and don’t know where to start, is Kenya. The home of much of
safari’s literature lore, and the star of countless films paying homage to the golden age of travel, it’s
beauty and magnificence on screen and on the page doesn’t overstate its real-life allure.

Within Kenya – as with all destinations – are nuances. And it pays to understand the different options –
largely between the national parks and conservancies, in which its lodges and camps are located. Each
plays a vital role, but operate slightly differently.

A comparison

When it comes to ownership, national parks (as you’d have predicted) are owned and managed by the
Kenyan government, while conservancies can either be privately owned or managed in collaboration
with local communities, often the Maasai. For both, the emphasis is on tourism, conservation and
community, to varying degrees.

National parks’ roads are well developed for in-vehicle game driving, while private reserves may have a
slightly more limited road network – here you’ll rely on having a guide with a dedicated game vehicle,
and will also be able to experience the bush in different ways, such as walking safaris or night drives.
As a rule, national parks will be more crowded as they’re open to anyone and so will have a larger
number of visitors, as well as vehicles – which can be a factor if you’re looking for uncrowded game
viewing. Here private reserves offer a quieter experience – as access is only permitted to guests of the
lodges on the property, which in some cases are very sparse.

Examples of national parks in Kenya are Amboseli National Park, Tsavo National Park, Masai Mara
National Reserve, while among the private reserves you’ll find Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Mara North
Conservancy, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.

How to choose?

National Parks are suitable for travellers looking for a traditional safari experience where abundant
wildlife is guaranteed and an established infrastructure provides the ability to self drive, but will have to
contend with bigger crowds. For those in search of a quieter and more remote experience, or any sort of
specialised activities, conservancies will offer more variety and customisation – this is where on the
whole you’ll find the more high-end lodges and camps. These do come at a higher cost but offer
specialised services.

At the end of the day, the pros and cons will depend on what your travel party needs and this comes
down to who’s travelling and their individual requirements and preferences.

Don’t forget the beach…

For many people who haven’t visited, the word ‘Kenya’ conjures visions of safari, wildlife and endless
plains. Which is accurate. But don’t forget that Kenya is also a prime beach destination, with magical
tropical coastline and ocean dotted with archipelagos. Even more reason to add Kenya to your itinerary.
And while we’re on the topic of itineraries, we can help you craft one perfectly tailored to you. Chat to
our team for expert advice.