Introduction
While the Masai Mara is Kenya’s crown jewel, the country’s diversity of landscapes is extraordinary: deserts, mountains, volcanoes, rainforests, and lakes. These regions deliver unique wildlife, cultures, and photographic opportunities that complement a Mara safari beautifully.
Here is your guide to Kenya’s other wildlife areas—and why many Wild Atlas Explorations itineraries combine the Mara with one or more of them.
1. Laikipia Plateau
A vast, high-altitude wilderness stretching across central Kenya.
Why It’s Special
- Strong rhino conservation (black & white rhino)
- Introduced Northern species: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe
- Top-tier conservancies (Lewa, Ol Pejeta)
- Camel safaris
- Horseback riding
- Night drives
Who It’s Best For
- Families
- Conservation-focused travelers
- Repeat safari-goers
- Travelers wanting diversity beyond big cats
2. Samburu & The Northern Frontier
Where the desert meets the river.
Why It’s Special
- The Samburu Special Five:
- Reticulated giraffe
- Grevy’s zebra
- Somali ostrich
- Beisa oryx
- Gerenuk
- Strong Samburu culture
- Dramatic landscapes of red earth + rocky outcrops
- Excellent leopard sightings
Who It’s Best For
- Photographers
- Adventure travelers
- Cultural travelers
- Wildlife collectors (unique species)
3. Chyulu Hills
The green volcanic hills beneath Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Why It’s Special
- Breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro
- Horseback safaris
- Walking safaris
- Lava tube caves
- High-end eco-luxury (ol Donyo Lodge)
Who It’s Best For
- Honeymooners
- Horseback riders
- Travelers wanting exclusivity and open space
4. Ol Pejeta Conservancy
One of East Africa’s most important conservation sites.
Why It’s Special
- World-leading rhino conservation
- Home of the last northern white rhinos
- High wildlife density
- Wide variety of activities
Who It’s Best For
- Conservation-focused travelers
- Families
- Travelers wanting an educational component
5. Amboseli National Park
The best place in Africa to photograph elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.
Why It’s Special
- Large elephant herds
- Incredible Kili views
- Salt pans & swamps
- Great for a shorter safari extension
Who It’s Best For
- Photographers
- Families
- First-time safari travelers
Conclusion
Kenya offers far more than the Mara. For travelers seeking diversity—rhinos, desert-adapted wildlife, horseback safaris, volcanic landscapes, or world-class conservation—these regions elevate any itinerary.
At Wild Atlas Explorations, we often combine the Mara with one or two of these areas for a safari that is richer, more varied, and more personal.
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