Off The Beaten Safari Destinations In Kenya : Kenya is well known for its safari experiences. It is a beautiful country with a diverse biodiversity. However, because of the large number of visitors, it has been perceived as touristy and unauthentic. We beg to differ because there are numerous locations off the beaten path that make it unique. The off-the-beaten-path sites are so remarkable because they have few visitors and are not clogged with safari jeeps. Focus East Africa Tours takes delight in introducing you to these sites, which, if included in your itinerary, will enhance your vacation.
Meru National Park
This is one of the parks that have sprung up as a result of the hopelessness of poaching and poor infrastructure. It is best known as the home of Elsa the lioness and is located in northern Kenya. Meru is home to the big five: elephants, rhinoceros, buffalo, leopards, and lions. It also has diverse birdlife, not to mention the rich highlands and lovely scenery that surround it. Meru is hot, and in the dry season, you may easily mistake yourself for being on the coast. Meru hotels and lodges cater to various types of visitors. From low-cost Bandas to the high-end and exclusive Elsa Kopje resort, Meru is one of the best-kept wildlife secrets, with tremendously rewarding game drives. This is the place to go for individuals who appreciate unadulterated wilderness and privacy.
Chalbi Desert and Lake Turkana
Look north to the Chalbi Desert, east of the stunning and secluded Lake Turkana, where dry, cracked dirt meets lush oases surrounded by palm trees and herds of zebra, giraffe, ostrich, Oryx, and hyena gather to drink. This desert region of northern Kenya is largely unknown, even to locals. Its unusual, surreal environment is thought to have been produced by a lake that dried up millions of years ago. The background features volcanic hills and desert fauna amid the sand dunes.
Thrill seekers can participate in adrenaline-pumping activities such as sandboarding and dune racing in 4WD vehicles with local inhabitants on camelback, nights spent stargazing, and possibly even a swim in Lake Turkana, which is located in a national park with good animal viewing chances. Chalbi is 425 kilometers north of Nairobi, so expect to fly in and then hire a local driver who knows the roads and terrain (and an appropriate rugged car).
Kakamega Forest
This unique woodland can be found in western Kenya. It is one of the natural forests in Kenya, extending into central Congo. Some of the oldest trees can be found here. This forest provides some of the best birding opportunities. The Kakamega Forest is home to some of Kenya’s most magnificent birds. It is also the ideal site for butterfly enthusiasts. The Kakamega Forest is not well-known for wildlife viewing, but it is a great site for nature hikes, birdwatching, hiking, and recognizing snakes and butterflies. The black and white Columbus and De Brazza monkeys live here, as does the Poto, a nocturnal primate distinguished by its habit of living in trees. Camping in Kakamega is reasonably priced. Inquire early because there aren’t many accommodations in the forest. There are, however, various hotels in adjacent towns.
Kericho
This region is home to some of Kenya’s key cash crops, including tea. These high-altitude places are gorgeous, with carpets of endless tea estates and a welcoming local community. It also has chebutu jungle, which is home to monkeys, birds, and other wildlife. This indigenous forest contains some of the region’s oldest trees. Kenyapithecus fossils can also be found in Kericho. This was discovered at the Fort Tenon Museum by archeologist Louis Leakey. It also contains the Mau Forest, which serves as the primary source of water for the Masai Mara Wildlife Reserve. Kericho and the western safari circuit can be combined. The scenery does not disappoint. It is also an opportunity to purchase a variety of teas to take home with you.
Marakwet County.
Have you ever wondered where Kenyan athletes are bred? Iten, the highland region from which record-breaking athletes come, is located here. It also serves as the Lorna Kiplagat training facility. One of the most prestigious athlete training facilities in the world. Marakwet’s landscape is stunning. The big rift valley, the tugen and cherangany hills, the Kerio valley, and the Iten view point will all be visible. It also has a national park, gorges and waterfalls, jungles, and great slopes for hiking. If you are seeking an adventure safari option, Iten and the surrounding environs can provide you with just that. Accommodations are inexpensive and located in adjacent towns.
Pate Island.
This is one of the most isolated coastal places, as well as one of the most fascinating villages. Pate is reserved, with little or no contemporary conveniences. The structures are old and designed as a little town with twisting alleyways for transportation. Pate is part of the lovely Lamu Island and can be reached from here. It includes some of the most spectacular ruins on the coast, as well as a number of centuries-old Swahili communities. Pate is rich in history, and if you are interested in history, you may learn a lot here. Watamu is the place to go if all you desire is the beauty of the seashore and white beaches. Diani and Lamu should be on your itinerary.
Laikipia.
This is by far Kenya’s best-kept wildlife secret. In terms of animal population and lovely travel secrets, it ranks second only to the Masai Mara game reserve. Previously a cattle ranching region, this location has encouraged the coexistence of wildlife and livestock. Large livestock ranches have developed conservation strategies, and Laikipia has become a biodiversity hotspot over time.
This location can be reached via the British-dominated town of Nanyuki. The settlement, like much of Laikipia, is located across the equator. The location is hot, yet there are plenty of activities due to the enormous protected areas. This is one of the areas where you may go on a night game drive, horseback ride to see animals, wild camel rides, sleep under the stars, kayaking, canoeing, and quad riding. The areas are vast, and the activities cannot be completed in a single day. Laikipia is home to some of Kenya’s most opulent resorts. This area is home to high-end establishments such as Sirikoi Lodge, Ol Lulule, and Ol Jogi. Camping is also accessible.
Lake Bogoria National Reserve
Lake Bogoria, located two hours north of Nakuru, is another of Kenya’s Rift Valley soda lakes that draws tens of thousands of flamingos when conditions are favorable. Unfortunately, the lake’s water level has risen in recent years, making flamingo sightings less common than they previously were.
Nonetheless, this remote park is worth a visit merely to view the hot springs that burst up from the ground around the lake. Lake Baringo is located a little further north. It is not officially protected, but it is a relaxing place to relax and go on boat trips to watch hippos, crocodiles, and fish eagles.
Shimba Hills National Reserve
Shimba Hills, located just inland of the famed Diani Beach, make for an excellent short safari from the shore. This densely forested park is home to a big and noticeable elephant population and is the only area in Kenya where you may observe the stately sable antelope. There are also plenty of warthogs, baboons, vervet monkeys, buffalo, and several giraffes that have been imported. Most of the beach resorts south of Mombasa can easily arrange half- and full-day safaris. It’s an excellent choice for a family safari.
Conclusion: Write to us if you want to experience these and other hidden tourist sites in Kenya. Our understanding of less-traveled locations will make your safari in Kenya even more memorable.
