Best Safari Books to Read Before You Go

Preparing for a Kenyan safari through literature enriches the experience immeasurably. Here are some outstanding books to consider:

Wildlife & Natural History

  • The Safari Companion by Richard Estes – A detailed guide to animal behavior that will transform how you watch wildlife
  • The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony – Moving story of a conservationist’s relationship with a herd of wild elephants
  • Serengeti Story by Anthony Sinclair – The fascinating science behind the Serengeti ecosystem

Memoirs & Personal Experiences

  • Out of Africa by Karen Blixen – The classic memoir of life in colonial Kenya
  • Whatever You Do, Don’t Run by Peter Allison – Humorous tales from a safari guide
  • The Big Cat Man by Jonathan Scott – Memoir from the famous wildlife photographer and presenter

Cultural Context

  • A Grain of Wheat by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o – A powerful novel by Kenya’s most famous author
  • It’s Our Turn to Eat by Michela Wrong – Insights into modern Kenyan politics and society
  • The White Masai by Corinne Hofmann – A controversial but fascinating cross-cultural love story

Photography & Visual Guides

  • Wildlife Photography: On Safari with your DSLR by Uwe Skrzypczak – Specifically focused on East African wildlife photography
  • The Safari Companion Guide to East African Animals – Visual reference to help identify what you’ll see

Children’s Books

  • Mama Miti by Donna Jo Napoli – About Wangari Maathai and Kenyan environmentalism
  • We All Went On Safari by Laurie Krebs – A counting journey through Tanzania but relevant for Kenyan safaris too

Reading these books before your trip will deepen your appreciation of Kenya’s wildlife, landscapes, and cultures, making your safari experience all the more meaningful.