Place to visit

Kenya’s Lesser-Known National Parks: Why You Should Visit These Hidden Gems

Kenya is world-famous for its safari hotspots-like Maasai Mara and Amboseli—but there’s another side to the country’s wild beauty that many travelers don’t see. I’m talking about the lesser-known national parks and reserves—hidden gems that offer unforgettable experiences without the crowds. Let’s explore three such places: Samburu National Reserve, Ruma National Park, and Kakamega Forest.

1. Samburu National Reserve – Rare Wildlife in the North

   Nestled in Kenya's north along the Ewaso Ng’iro River, Samburu National Reserve covers around 165 km² and is home to some of Africa’s most unique animals. It’s not just beautiful—it’s special.

   Why it stands out:

   • Samburu Special Five: This reserve hosts five species found almost nowhere else—Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, Beisa oryx, and gerenuk.
   • Big Cats & Elephants Too: You’ll also see lions, leopards, cheetahs, and large elephant herds—rare treats outside the major parks.
   • Birding Heaven: With around 450 bird species, it's a delight for bird lovers.
   • Community & Conservation: This isn’t just about wildlife—local efforts like the Ewaso Lions Project help protect lions and involve communities in conservation.

   Visiting Samburu feels like stepping into a different world—arid, serene, and full of rare wildlife. It’s less crowded but every bit as magical. Ideal if you want a more intimate safari experience.



2. Ruma National Park – Quiet Beauty & Roan Antelope Sanctuary

   If solitude and peace are your thing, Ruma National Park in Western Kenya is where you’ll want to go. Spanning about 120 km² in the scenic Lambwe Valley, it’s a quiet, off-the-grid escape.

   Highlights:

   • Roan Antelope Refuge: Ruma is the last place in Kenya still home to the endangered roan antelope.
   • A Birding Hotspot: Visit during April to September and you may spot the rare blue swallow, a bird not often seen elsewhere in Kenya.
   • Striking Landscapes: From river valleys to grasslands and cliffs, Ruma offers beautiful, ever-changing scenery.
   • Cultural Connections: The park blends nature with culture—locals welcome visitors and you may even join community-led cultural tours.

   Note: Ruma is remote and minimally developed—bring your own essentials and be ready for a wild, peaceful adventure.



3. Kakamega Forest – Kenya’s Tropical Heart

   Long before savannah safaris, Kenya had tropical rainforests. Kakamega Forest, near Lake Victoria, is the last remnant of the West African rainforest that once stretched across the region.

   What makes it special:

   • High Biodiversity: The forest is packed with life—over 380 plant species, 400+ bird species (with some found only here), nearly 500 butterflies, and rare reptiles and primates.
   • Unique Wildlife: Sightings of blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, potto, pangolins, forest elephants, and more make each walk thrilling.
   • Insect Wonderland: Expect to see Goliath beetles, colorful butterflies, snakes, and frogs—nature in its most vibrant form.
   • Conservation in Action: The Kakamega Forest Heritage Foundation works hard to protect the forest while uplifting local communities through conservation and tree-planting efforts.

   Walking Kakamega’s misty trails early in the morning—towering trees overhead, bird songs all around—is a memory you’ll never forget.

• Fewer Crowds: Enjoy nature without the noise. These parks are perfect for peaceful, thoughtful exploration.
• Unique Wildlife: Encounter rare or endemic species that are hard to find elsewhere.
• True Cultural Immersion: Get closer to Kenya’s traditions—communities in places like Samburu and Ruma are more integrated into the park experience.
• Breathtaking Variety: From arid lands to lush rainforests, each site offers a totally different slice of Kenya.
• Supporting Conservation: Tourism to these parks directly aids in protecting endangered species and preserving fragile ecosystems.

• Plan Ahead: Especially for Ruma and Kakamega, bring essentials like water, food, and mosquito repellent.
• Best Times:
  Ruma: April–September for blue swallows.
  Samburu: Dry season offers better visibility and access.
  Kakamega: Early morning is best for wildlife and bird activity.
• Go with a Guide: Local guides know where to find wildlife and can also share stories about culture and conservation.
• Pack Right: Binoculars, sturdy shoes, light rain jacket (for Kakamega), and camera—these go a long way.
• Combine Sites: If time allows, a trip that includes two or three of these parks gives a full sense of Kenya’s diversity.

These under-the-radar spots—Samburu, Ruma, Kakamega—offer fresh, quiet, and richly rewarding safari experiences. They let you see Kenya’s beauty in a new way: one that’s about stillness, wonder, and authenticity.