Kenya Safaris

Diverse and Interesting Family Holidays

By: Melissa Robers

In most people's minds, the words "Kenya" and "safari" are conjoined twins. Through the influence of movies, literature, and popular culture, it is impossible to think of Kenya without imagining an expedition through the countryside. Traditionally, people have gone on safari to see Africa's wildlife, particularly the "Big Five", but it is easy to expand the scope of a safari to include a journey to view, photograph, or study Kenya's wildlife, marine population, and flora.

The Big Five consists of lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and Cape buffalo. All of these magnificent creatures can be found in the Masai Mara, the best known of all the Kenyan Game Parks. The BBC chose this area to film their hit series, "Big Cat Diaries", partially because of the area's lion prides. Visitors can find accommodations to suit their needs and budgets - ranging from lodges with 100 plus rooms to five tent camps.

Lake Nakuru is a lovely area that will appeal to both animal and bird lovers. Two of the Big Five species call the Great Rift Valley home: leopards, and both black and white rhinos.Rothschild's giraffes, an endangered species, also live in the Lake Nakuru area. A Kenya safari in this area will delight bird lovers because of the large pink flamingo population and the 400 other species of bird that are residents there.