wildebeestmigration
April 21, 2025
Kenya is one of Africa’s premier destinations for elephant encounters, with over 35,000 savanna elephants roaming its national parks and reserves. From massive herds against Kilimanjaro backdrops to rare desert-adapted giants, here are the 7 best places to see elephants in Kenya for an unforgettable wildlife experience.
1. Amboseli National Park
The Elephant Capital of Africa
Why Visit?
1,600+ elephants in iconic family groups
Best views with Mount Kilimanjaro backdrop
Amboseli Elephant Research Project (since 1972)
Pro Tip: Visit the Observation Hill for panoramic elephant viewing across the swamps.
“For full details, read our amboseli-national-park-safari-guide”
2. Tsavo East & West National Parks
Land of the Red Elephants
Why Visit?
Largest elephant population in Kenya (12,000+)
Famous “red elephants” from volcanic dust
Less crowded than northern parks
Best Spot: Mzima Springs where elephants drink alongside hippos.
3. Samburu National Reserve
Desert-Adapted Giants
Why Visit?
Unique “desert elephants” with specialized behaviors
Ewaso Ng’iro River crossings
Rare sightings of elephant swimming
4. Maasai Mara National Reserve
Elephants of the Great Migration
Why Visit?
Large resident herds (2,500+ elephants)
Dramatic river crossings during migration
Excellent for photography in golden light
Did You Know? Mara elephants have larger home ranges than other Kenyan populations.
5. Laikipia Plateau
Conservation Success Story
Why Visit?
Second-largest population in Kenya
Private conservancies with exclusive viewing
Night safari opportunities
Top Conservancies: Ol Pejeta, Lewa, Borana
“Learn about kenyas-elephant-conservation-efforts ”
6. Meru National Park
“Born Free” Elephant Country
Why Visit?
Dense elephant populations in riverine forests
Joy Adamson’s conservation legacy
Authentic wilderness experience
7. Nairobi National Park
Elephants near the City
Why Visit?
Convenient day trips from Nairobi
Sheldrick Wildlife Trust orphanage nearby
Black rhino + elephant combos
Must-Do: Visit the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage (11am daily).
Kenya Elephant Viewing Calendar
| Location | Best viewing months | Special events |
| Amboseli | Jun-Oct | Dry season concentrations |
| Tsavo | Jan-Mar | Newborn calves |
| Samburu | Jul-Sep | River crossings |
| Mara | Aug-Oct | Migration period |
Elephant Safari Tips
1. Best Times: Early morning (6-9am) and late afternoon (4-6pm)
2. Photography: Use telephoto lenses (200-400mm ideal)
3. Behavior: Watch for ear-flapping (cooling) and trunk signals
4. Safety: Always stay in vehicles near wild elephants
Ethical Elephant Experiences
We recommend:
Wild viewing in national parks
Sheldrick adoption program (ethical orphan care)
Avoid elephant rides or forced interactions
Book Your Elephant Safari
Wildebeest Migration Safaris offers specialized elephant-focused tours:
Expert guides with 5+ years’ experience
Custom itineraries for photographers
Support for conservation initiatives
Call/WhatsApp: +254 707125675
View Packages: https://wildebeestmigrationsafaris.co.ke/
Follow Us: Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/wildebeestmigrationsafaris | Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/wildebeest_migration_safaris/
Wildebeests Migration Safaris, offers exceptional safari experiences focused on Kenya’s renowned wildlife. Specializing in guided tours we take guests through iconic locations like the Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Amboseli, Samburu, Ol Pejeta and Many More.
Top Destination
Information
