Walking safaris offer an intimate, sensory-rich wildlife experience that vehicle-based safaris simply can’t match. Kenya has several exceptional areas where guided walking safaris are permitted and well-managed:
Laikipia Plateau
The private conservancies of Laikipia provide some of Kenya’s best walking safari opportunities:
- Lewa Wildlife Conservancy: Renowned for rhino conservation, Lewa offers walks with armed rangers across diverse landscapes.
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy: Home to the last northern white rhinos, offering guided walks with experienced Samburu guides.
- Karisia Hills: Specializes in walking and camel-supported mobile safaris through wilderness areas rarely seen by vehicles.
Maasai Mara Conservancies
While walking is restricted in the main Maasai Mara Reserve, the surrounding private conservancies permit guided walks:
- Naboisho Conservancy: Offers exceptional guided walks with Maasai guides who share their intimate knowledge of the savanna.
- Mara North Conservancy: Several camps here specialize in walking safaris combined with traditional game drives.
Northern Kenya
The more remote northern regions offer truly wild walking experiences:
- Matthews Range: Pristine wilderness with walks focusing on smaller species, birds, and plants with Samburu guides.
- Namunyak Conservancy: Famous for the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary and offering walking safaris through diverse habitats.
Central Kenya
- Aberdare National Park: Offers designated walking trails through mountain forests with diverse wildlife.
- Mount Kenya: Higher-elevation walks focus on unique alpine species and spectacular scenery.
Southern Kenya
- Chyulu Hills: Green volcanic hills between Tsavo and Amboseli where walking safaris explore cloud forests and volcanic features.
- Amboseli ecosystem: Some conservancies bordering the national park offer walking opportunities with views of Kilimanjaro.
What Makes a Great Walking Safari
- Expert guides: Local guides with deep tracking knowledge and armed rangers ensure safety and rich interpretation.
- Varied terrain: Look for areas with diverse landscapes allowing for different walking experiences.
- Fly camping: Some operators offer multi-day walks with lightweight mobile camps for a truly immersive experience.
Walking safaris typically last 2-4 hours and require moderate fitness. The focus is often on tracking skills, smaller species, plants, and insects that would be missed from a vehicle. For the most rewarding experience, combine walking safaris with traditional game drives for the perfect balance of intimacy and broader wildlife viewing.