A Guide to the Wild Animals that Live in Kenya

The ‘Big Five’ of Kenya

The “Big Five” is a term used by safari guides on game drives to denote the five larger animals, and sometimes harder-to-find animals, that most safaris revolve around. You can find these incredible species all across Africa and are often the most sought-after viewings for first-time safari goers.

African elephant

As the largest land mammal on earth, few experiences rival seeing the mighty African elephant as it slowly stomps across Kenya's savannas. Known for their distinctive, large ears and long trunks, African elephants are highly adaptable and are found across the country, from the savannas of the Maasai Mara to the forests of Aberdare National Park. You’ll marvel at the sheer scale of these magnificent beasts, which live on a herbivore diet of grasses, leaves, fruits and other plants.

Where to stay to see elephants: Visit Northern Kenya and stay at Sarara Camp, where they’ve carried out seriously incredible conservation work in the Matthews Mountain Range and now several thousand elephants thrive.

Lion

With their striking appearance, fearsome roar, and status as the apex predator, lions are considered some of the mightiest wildlife you’ll see in Kenya. Living in ‘prides’ of up to 50 members, there’s no sight more breathtaking than witnessing a pack of lions as they stalk their prey across Kenya’s plains. As crepuscular creatures, during the day you’ll find them sunbathing, but on early morning and evening game drives, watch them come to life as they seek out and hunt prey.

Where to stay to see lions: Head to the iconic Maasai Mara for a few nights at Angama Mara, a stunning feat of architecture as you stay in suspended glass-fronted suites overlooking the edge of the Oloololo escarpment.

Leopard

particularly since they are most active at night. However, with the help of local guides and trackers, you could potentially encounter one of Africa's most lethal hunters on a safari of Kenya’s National Parks and Reserves. For travelers with a keen eye, spotting a prowling leopard is one of the most uniquely rewarding experiences you can hope to enjoy on a Kenyan safari.

Where to stay to see leopards: Loisaba Tented Camp is a must for any animal lover with the area's varied topography, from plains to forests, playing host to a number of species including the aloof leopard.

Cape buffalo

One of the most iconic wild animals that live in Kenya is the Cape Buffalo, also called African Buffaloes. Large and robust, you won't struggle to spot a herd of Cape buffalo as they thunder across the savanna in search of food and water. You can recognize them from their distinctive curved horns, which they use to defend themselves against predators like lions and hyenas. Travelers can find the Cape buffalo living near water sources like lakes and rivers, particularly during the dry season when water is scarce.

Where to stay to see buffaloes: For something truly unique, visit the Borana Lodge in Laikipia, Kenya. A working ranch and game reserve, the buffaloes roam freely amongst the land and lodge, along with the other big five.

Rhinoceros

Known for its horns and armor-like skin, the rhinoceros is one of the most famous and endangered animals in Kenya. Since they can weigh up to 3,000 kg, you may be surprised to hear that the mighty rhino lives exclusively on a diet of grasses, leaves and branches. On safari, you can find two species of rhinoceros, the white rhino and the black rhino, which can both be seen in several national parks in Kenya, including the Maasai Mara, Tsavo and Aberdare National Park. Being largely solitary animals, the rhino is hard to come by, but encountering one of these mighty beasts makes for one of the most amazing sights you could experience on a Kenyan safari.

Our Africa Travel Specialist Jade Weidenfeller offers her advice on the best Kenyan locations to spot these mighty creatures:

“The game viewing in Laikipia is phenomenal due to extreme conservation efforts and anti-poaching canine units in the area making it one of the country’s best locations to spot Black and White Rhino.”

Where to stay to see rhinos:  Vacation at the 45,000-acre Lewa Wildlife Conservancy with a stay at Lewa House, where nearly 10% of Kenya’s black rhino population resides. Enjoy an eye-catching view of Mount Kenya from your private veranda.

What Other Wild Animals Live in Kenya?

From Kenya’s endemic species to its magnificent bird and marine life, here are the other animals in Kenya worth looking out for on your next safari vacation.

Endemic Species and Endangered Animals in Kenya

Northern Kenya, the Laikipia district and Samburu National Park, is home to the “Special Northern Five”. These are five species only found in Northern Kenya, and our favorite to plan safaris to for their off-the-beaten-track location.

This includes Grevy’s Zebra, Long-necked Gerenuk, Reticulated Giraffe, Somali Ostrich and the Beisa Oryx.

Grevy’s Zebra is one of Kenya’s endangered native animals, with its population declining by 50% over the last 20 years. The Black Rhino is another endangered species in Kenya, often hunted for its horn and believed medical properties.

Conservationists and Kenya’s Government have enacted initiatives, program and enforced laws to help save these species from extinction, with many of the lodges we work with leading these efforts.

Where to stay: Stay at Saruni Samburu, a deluxe lodge set up in the Kalama Wildlife Conservancy in Samburu National Reserve. There are several viewpoints dotted around the safari lodge, with the waterholes where you can see the big 5, as well as rarer species such as wild dogs, oryx, Somalian ostrich and the vulturine guineafowl.

Marine Life in Kenya: Exploring Coastal Waters

Kenya's coastline is not only renowned for its stunning beaches and diverse wildlife on land but also for its rich marine biodiversity. The crystal-clear waters along the Kenyan coast are home to a wide range of fascinating marine creatures, making it a paradise for marine enthusiasts.

One of the highlights of the marine life in Kenya is its vibrant coral reefs. When it comes to diving and snorkeling, Kenya offers some incredible sites to explore. The Watamu Marine National Park is a popular destination known for its pristine coral gardens and abundance of marine life. Here, you can swim alongside colorful fish, turtles, dolphins and even encounter gentle whale sharks.

Another must-visit spot is Diani Beach, located south of Mombasa. The warm waters surrounding Diani are teeming with marine biodiversity, and divers can spot fascinating creatures like octopuses, moray eels, and various species of rays.

Where to stay: We recommend the intimate family-run resort Kinondo Kwetu. This beach hideaway takes you away from the crowds and straight to the beach where you can snorkel, go deep sea fishing and much more.

Birds of Kenya: A Paradise for Birdwatchers

Kenya is a true haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting a rich diversity of bird species that inhabit its varied landscapes. From the vast savannas to the lush forests, there are over 1,000 recorded species.

When it comes to birdwatching spots, the Maasai Mara National Reserve is renowned for its birdlife, with species such as the Lilac-breasted Roller, African Fish Eagle, and Secretary Bird gracing the skies.

Another must-visit location is Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its pink-hued flamingos. These elegant birds create a breathtaking spectacle as they gather in large numbers along the lake's shores.

Kenya is also part of the Great Rift Valley, a key migratory route for many bird species. During the months of October to April, millions of birds pass through this region on their journey from Europe to Africa. Amboseli National Park and Tsavo East National Park are excellent spots to witness this remarkable migration.

Where to stay: Loldia House is one of Kenya’s oldest colonial farms and is perfectly placed to explore Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru with intimate boat rides to see the lush birdlife.