KENYA BEYOND THE MARA

Discover what else this wonderful country has to offer

While the Masai Mara is undoubtedly one of Kenya’s most famous safari destinations, the country is home to a wealth of hidden gems that deserve equal attention. For travellers looking to venture off the beaten path and explore Kenya’s diverse landscapes and rich wildlife, these lesser-known spots offer an intimate and more personal safari experience. From the stunning landscapes of Laikipia to the wildlife-rich regions of Tsavo and Samburu, Kenya’s hidden safari gems provide a world of adventure beyond the Mara’s borders.



Laikipia County, located in central Kenya, is a region that seamlessly blends conservation with community. Home to a mix of private conservancies, wildlife sanctuaries, and community-owned lands, Laikipia offers a completely different safari experience. The area is renowned for its successful conservation efforts, particularly its work with endangered species like the Grevy’s zebra and the painted wolf (African wild dog). 

With its open plains, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys, Laikipia is a peaceful and serene destination where you’ll often find yourself alone in the bush, away from the crowds. Activities in Laikipia range from traditional game drives to walking safaris, night drives, and even horseback riding through the wilderness, providing guests with a wide array of ways to explore this diverse region.

The region is also home to some of Kenya’s most luxurious and intimate safari lodges, where guests can experience a true connection with nature. The wealth of wildlife here includes elephants, lions, giraffes, and cheetahs, but it’s the sense of space and tranquility that truly sets Laikipia apart. Here, the wilderness feels vast and untamed, yet it remains carefully protected through ongoing conservation initiatives. For guests seeking a more personalised, off-the-grid safari experience, Laikipia is the perfect choice.

Another hidden gem in Kenya’s safari repertoire is the Samburu National Reserve, located in the northern part of the country. Known for its arid landscapes and unique wildlife, Samburu offers a different side to Kenya’s safari scene. The region is home to several species that are not found in the more southerly parks, known affectionately as the Samburu Special Five - the Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, Beisa oryx, and gerenuk. These animals are specifically adapted to the arid, semi-arid environments of northern Kenya and are a major highlight for wildlife viewing in the region. 

Despite its harsher environment, Samburu is teeming with life, particularly around the Ewaso Ng’iro River, which attracts a variety of animals. Elephants, lions, and leopards are often spotted, and the area’s birdlife is rich, with over 450 species recorded in the reserve.

Samburu is also known for its cultural experiences, with opportunities to engage with the local Samburu people, who have a deep connection to the land. Staying in one of the region’s luxury lodges or tented camps provides an authentic safari experience where guests can witness the incredible wildlife of northern Kenya while learning about the traditions and customs of the Samburu community.

Further south, Tsavo National Park offers yet another unique safari experience. Divided into Tsavo East and Tsavo West, this vast park is one of the largest in Kenya and is home to an impressive diversity of wildlife. 

Tsavo East is known for its open savannahs and red-dusted elephants, while Tsavo West is more mountainous and forested, offering a range of different landscapes to explore. The park is famous for its big cats, and you’ll often see lions, cheetahs, and leopards hunting in the early morning or late afternoon. Tsavo is also home to a large population of hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, making it a fantastic destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

One of Tsavo’s most iconic attractions is the Mzima Springs, a natural oasis in the midst of the park’s dry landscapes. The springs feed into crystal-clear pools that are home to a variety of wildlife, including hippos and crocodiles. 

Visitors can take a glass-bottom boat ride over the springs, offering a unique opportunity to view the wildlife below the surface. The combination of dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and fascinating history makes Tsavo an essential stop for those wanting to experience Kenya’s unspoilt wilderness.

At Leadwood Holidays, we specialise in creating bespoke itineraries that allow you to discover these lesser-known corners of Kenya in comfort and style. With our experienced guides, intimate lodges, and carefully crafted routes, you’ll be able to explore Kenya in a way that most only dream of. If you’re ready to go beyond the Mara and uncover the hidden gems of Kenya, get in touch and let's get the ball rolling on your next East African adventure!