Luxury Tented Camps: The Ultimate Safari Experience

When you think of camping, you might picture sleeping bags, mosquito bites, and roughing it under the stars. But in Kenya’s top safari destinations, luxury tented camps offer an entirely different story — one where you wake to the sound of lions in the distance, enjoy gourmet meals under acacia trees, and sleep in a plush bed beneath canvas and sky.

At Chacal Safaris, we believe that a luxury tented camp is the purest, most immersive way to experience the wild without sacrificing comfort, service, or style. Here’s why these camps offer the ultimate safari experience.

What Is a Luxury Tented Camp?

Luxury tented camps combine the romance of traditional safari life with modern amenities. You’ll stay in a spacious canvas tent that feels more like a boutique hotel room than a camping setup. These tents are often built on raised wooden decks, with en suite bathrooms, hot showers, comfortable beds, elegant furnishings, and even private verandas.

Think: five-star comfort in the heart of the wild.

Why Choose a Luxury Tented Camp?

1. Unmatched Connection to Nature

Unlike concrete lodges or hotels, tented camps let you feel, hear, and smell the bush around you. At night, you might hear elephants feeding nearby or hyenas calling in the distance  all while being safely tucked into your cozy retreat. It’s immersive, intimate, and utterly unforgettable.

2. Exclusive Locations

Luxury camps are typically located in prime wildlife viewing areas, often within private conservancies or deep inside national reserves. This means:

• Fewer tourists
• Better sightings
• Access to activities like night game drives, walking safaris, and off-road excursions

3. Personalized, High-End Service

With fewer rooms (often under 15 tents), these camps offer exceptionally attentive service. Expect:

• Private butler service
• Gourmet, chef-prepared meals
• Custom game drives tailored to your interests
• Sundowners, bush breakfasts, and fireside storytelling

Chacal Safaris partners with camps known for warm hospitality and attention to detail — where guests are treated like family.

Best Places in Kenya for Luxury Tented Camp Stays

• Masai Mara Conservancies – For front-row seats to the Great Migration and big cat sightings
• Amboseli – Wake up to views of Mount Kilimanjaro
• Laikipia & Lewa – Off-the-beaten-path elegance with a focus on conservation
• Samburu – Exotic wildlife and dramatic landscapes
• Mara North & Naboisho – Private experiences, walking safaris, and fewer vehicles

Is It Worth the Splurge?

If you’re looking for an authentic, stylish, and deeply personal safari experience, luxury tented camps are well worth the investment. Whether it’s your first safari, a honeymoon, or a special celebration, these camps provide unforgettable moments with just the right blend of adventure and indulgence.

Sleep Wild, Stay Luxurious with Chacal Safaris

At Chacal Safaris, we craft bespoke safari experiences that include handpicked luxury tented camps across Kenya. Let us match you with the perfect camp  whether you seek rustic charm, eco-conscious design, or ultra-luxurious touches in the wild.

Kenya Safaris for Photographers: Specialized Tours Worth Every Shot

Kenya is a dream destination for wildlife photographers ,home to sweeping savannahs, dramatic skies, and some of the most iconic animals on the planet. From a lion’s stare at sunrise to the thundering herds of wildebeest during the Great Migration, every corner of this country offers moments waiting to be captured.

At Chacal Safaris, we offer specialized photo safaris tailored for amateur and professional photographers alike. Whether you’re using a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or even a high-end phone, these tours are built around maximizing your photographic opportunities  not just ticking off sightings.

Here’s what makes a Kenya photography safari so special, and what you should know before booking.

Why Kenya Is a Photographer’s Paradise

Kenya offers unmatched diversity, both in terms of wildlife and landscapes. From the open plains of the Masai Mara to the snow-capped backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli, the settings are nothing short of spectacular. Add dramatic light, vibrant Maasai culture, and varied ecosystems, and you have a canvas rich with visual storytelling.

Wildlife highlights include:

• The Big Five: Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino, and Buffalo
• Great Migration river crossings (July–October)
• Predator-prey interactions
• Rare species in Samburu like the Grevy’s zebra and gerenuk
• Massive elephant herds in Amboseli with Kilimanjaro views

What to Expect on a Chacal Photo Safari

1. Private or Small Group Tours

Photography tours are often run in custom safari vehicles with open sides and limited guests per vehicle giving each photographer space to shoot from both sides without obstruction.

2. Expert Guides with Photography Knowledge

Our driver-guides are not only wildlife experts , many are trained to understand light direction, positioning, and how to approach animals for the best shots without disturbing them.

3. Flexible Game Drives

Forget fixed schedules. We plan early morning and late afternoon drives to take advantage of golden hour lighting and may extend drives if a unique photo opportunity presents itself.

4. Specialized Add-ons

• Bean bags for camera stability
• Extra vehicle power for charging batteries
• Support in planning night photography or time-lapse sessions
• Option to travel with a professional photographer guide

Best Locations for Photography in Kenya

• Masai Mara – Classic wildlife drama, big cats, and endless plains
• Amboseli – Iconic elephant shots with Mount Kilimanjaro backdrop
• Samburu – Unique species and beautiful arid scenery
• Lake Nakuru – Flamingos, rhinos, and forest backdrops
• Laikipia – Off-the-beaten-path conservancies with fewer crowds

What to Bring

• DSLR or mirrorless camera with a zoom lens (200–600mm recommended)
• Wide-angle lens for landscapes
• Spare batteries and memory cards
• Cleaning kit (dust is common)
• Laptop or hard drive for backup
• Lightweight tripod or monopod if desired

Capture Kenya with Chacal Safaris

At Chacal Safaris, we understand that a great safari for photographers means time, patience, and the perfect light. Our photo tours are crafted to give you the space, flexibility, and guidance to turn magical moments into stunning images.

Night Game Drives in Kenya: What You’ll See

Kenya’s wildlife is famous the world over, but did you know that half of it comes alive after dark? While most safaris stick to daylight hours, night game drives offer a completely different experience  one filled with suspense, discovery, and an entirely new cast of characters.

At Chacal Safaris, we invite you to explore Kenya in a way most travelers never do: under the stars, guided by experts who know how to navigate the night and spot elusive nocturnal wildlife.

Here’s what to expect on a night game drive,  and why it deserves a place on your safari bucket list.

What Is a Night Game Drive?

A night game drive is an evening or after-dark safari conducted in private conservancies or select national reserves that allow off-road and nighttime activity. Guests are driven in open 4×4 vehicles equipped with red-filtered spotlights, which help locate animals without disturbing them.

Night game drives typically begin after sundown and last 1.5 to 2 hours, offering a completely different sensory experience than daytime safaris.

What You Might See

Night drives reveal a hidden world that few ever witness. Here are some of the wildlife highlights:

1. Nocturnal Predators on the Hunt

• Lions often become more active after sunset, especially in warmer months when they rest during the day.
• Leopards prefer hunting at night, using their stealth and silence to ambush prey.
• You may also spot spotted hyenas, prowling or calling to their pack.

Why it’s special: Watching big cats stalk under moonlight is both eerie and exhilarating.

2. Elusive and Rare Creatures

Night drives are your best chance to spot Kenya’s shyest animals, such as:

• Aardvarks – insect-eating, burrow-digging mammals rarely seen in daylight
• Porcupines – foraging along bush trails
• Bush babies – with huge eyes and agile leaps through the trees
• Genets, civets, and white-tailed mongooses – small carnivores active after dark

These creatures are almost impossible to spot during the day, making night drives a must for wildlife enthusiasts.

3. Insects, Reptiles, and the Sounds of the Wild

You’ll also encounter tree frogs, scorpions, owls, and nightjars , all part of the nocturnal chorus. Even if visibility is lower, the sounds of rustling grass, distant roars, and chirping insects heighten your senses.

Night in the African bush is alive with mystery and magic  a safari experience you truly feel.

Where Can You Do Night Game Drives in Kenya?

Night game drives aren’t allowed in most national parks, but are available in many private conservancies, such as:

• Ol Pejeta Conservancy
• Mara North Conservancy
• Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
• Naboisho Conservancy
• Laikipia Wilderness areas

Chacal Safaris works closely with properties that offer safe, guided night drives with trained rangers and professional spotters.

Tips for Your Night Safari

• Dress warmly — evenings can get chilly
• Bring binoculars and a low-light camera if you have one
• Stay quiet — many animals are easily startled in the dark
• Trust your guide — they know where to look and what sounds to follow

Discover the Wild After Dark with Chacal Safaris

A night game drive adds an unforgettable layer to your safari , where every rustle might be a leopard and every shadow holds a secret. With expert guides and exclusive access, Chacal Safaris ensures you experience Kenya’s wild nightlife safely and memorably.

Best Safari Activities Beyond Game Drives

When you picture a safari, the classic image is a 4×4 vehicle rolling across the savannah in search of lions, elephants, and giraffes. While game drives are the heart of any safari, Kenya offers so much more. For travelers looking to add variety, depth, and unforgettable moments to their adventure, there are many unique safari activities beyond the vehicle.

At Chacal Safaris, we believe the best safaris go beyond sightings , they create meaningful connections with nature, culture, and yourself. Here are the top safari experiences beyond game drives to consider for your next Kenyan journey.

1. Walking Safaris: Feel the Wild Up Close

A walking safari is one of the most thrilling ways to experience the African bush. Accompanied by expert guides and armed rangers, you’ll track wildlife on foot, learn to identify animal tracks, and understand how ecosystems function , all while being fully immersed in your surroundings.

Best Places:

• Laikipia Conservancies
• Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
• Crescent Island (Lake Naivasha) – predator-free
• Hell’s Gate National Park
• Creator Lake Naivasha
• Mount Longonot National Park
• Aberdare National Park  

Why It’s Special: You’ll notice small details often missed on game drives  from insects to plants to the subtle sounds of the wild.

2. Hot Air Balloon Safari: Soar Above the Savanna

Few experiences rival floating silently over the plains of the Masai Mara at sunrise. A hot air balloon safari offers a bird’s-eye view of wildlife, winding rivers, and endless horizons. It ends with a champagne breakfast in the bush, making it perfect for romantic occasions or once-in-a-lifetime moments.

Best Place: Masai Mara National Reserve and Amboseli National Park

Pro Tip: Book this early space is limited and highly sought after in peak season.

3. Cultural Visits: Connect with Local Communities

Kenya’s people are as rich in heritage as its wildlife. A visit to a Maasai, Samburu,Luo,Taita or Turkana community gives you a deeper appreciation for traditional lifestyles, crafts, dances, and stories that have been passed down for generations.

Why It’s Special: These are not tourist shows , they’re respectful exchanges that support local livelihoods and enrich your understanding of Kenya.

4. Night Game Drives: Discover Nocturnal Wildlife

When the sun sets, the bush comes alive in a completely different way.With a night game drive (available in private conservancies), you’ll look for nocturnal species like aardvarks, bush babies, servals, and hyenas, guided by a red-filter spotlight.

Best Areas:

• Ol Pejeta Conservancy
• Mara North & other private conservancies
• Taita Hill’s Conservancy 

What to Expect: A deeper appreciation for predator behavior, unusual sightings, and the sounds of the night.

5. Boat Safaris: Explore Kenya’s Lakes and Waterways

Swap the land for water and enjoy a serene boat safari on Lake Naivasha, Lake Baringo,Lake Jipe or the Tana River. You’ll glide past hippos, spot fish eagles diving, and see a variety of birdlife from a unique angle.

Why It’s Worth It: A relaxing change of pace and a great opportunity for birdwatching.

Explore More with Chacal Safaris

Whether you’re seeking adrenaline, serenity, or deeper cultural insight, Kenya offers safari experiences that go far beyond the vehicle. At Chacal Safaris, we craft custom itineraries that mix game drives with immersive activities  giving you a richer, more personal adventure.

Tips for a Safe & Healthy Safari in Kenya

A safari in Kenya is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure wild landscapes, close encounters with majestic animals, and unforgettable moments under African skies. While it’s an incredibly rewarding experience, it’s also important to stay safe, healthy, and well prepared so you can enjoy every second without worry.

At Chacal Safaris, your wellbeing is our top priority. Here’s a complete guide to help you stay safe and healthy during your Kenyan safari.

1. Consult Your Doctor Before You Travel

Before your trip, visit a travel clinic or your healthcare provider to discuss any necessary vaccinations or medications. Common recommendations for Kenya include:

• Yellow Fever (may be required depending on your travel history)
• Typhoid, Hepatitis A & B, and Tetanus boosters
• Malaria prevention – tablets may be recommended depending on your itinerary
• COVID-19 considerations and standard international travel vaccines

Pro Tip: Carry a copy of your Yellow Fever certificate if required, especially if you’re traveling from or through another African country.

 2. Use Mosquito Protection

Malaria and other mosquito-borne illnesses exist in Kenya, particularly in lower-altitude areas like the coast and lake regions. To reduce your risk:

• Use a good insect repellent (with DEET or picaridin)
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers in the evening
• Sleep under a mosquito net when provided
• Choose safari accommodations with screens or air conditioning

3. Stay Hydrated & Eat Smart

Kenya’s climate can be hot and dry, especially on game drives, so drink plenty of water. Always:

• Carry a refillable water bottle
• Avoid drinking tap water — stick to bottled or purified water
• Choose freshly prepared, cooked meals at lodges or camps
• Wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitizer

Chacal Safaris ensures all partner lodges maintain high hygiene standards and provide safe drinking water and meals.

4. Pack a Personal Medical Kit

While many lodges are well-equipped, it’s smart to travel with a basic first-aid kit, including:

• Antiseptic wipes & plasters
• Pain relievers (paracetamol or ibuprofen)
• Anti-diarrheal medication
• Allergy medications or antihistamines
• Motion sickness tablets (for bumpy roads or flights)

Also, bring any prescription medication you need  in original packaging and with a copy of the prescription.

5. Respect Wildlife and Park Rules

Staying safe on safari also means respecting the wild:

• Always follow your guide’s instructions
• Don’t leave the vehicle during game drives unless it’s a designated area
• Keep a safe distance from all animals, no matter how calm they seem
• Don’t feed wildlife or leave litter behind

Remember: You’re in their home.

6. Travel Insurance Is Essential

A comprehensive travel insurance policy is a must. It should cover:

• Medical emergencies
• Evacuation (especially from remote areas)
• Trip cancellations or delays
• Lost or stolen belongings

Chacal Safaris can assist in recommending reliable providers for peace of mind.

Safari the Smart Way with Chacal Safaris

A safari in Kenya is wild, beautiful and with the right preparation , perfectly safe. At Chacal Safaris, we take care of every detail so you can travel confidently and focus on the experience, not the worries.

Travel smart. Stay healthy. Safari safely. Let us guide your adventure.

Fly-in Safaris in Kenya: Save Time & See More

Dreaming of an unforgettable safari but dreading long drives on bumpy roads? A fly-in safari might be the perfect solution. In Kenya,  a country blessed with vast distances, remote wilderness areas, and stunning landscapes , fly-in safaris are the fastest, most efficient, and most scenic way to explore.

At Chacal Safaris, we specialize in custom fly-in safari packages that help you save time, reach remote parks easily, and enjoy your safari in comfort and style. Here’s everything you need to know about fly-in safaris in Kenya  and why they’re worth considering.

What Is a Fly-in Safari?

A fly-in safari involves traveling between safari destinations by light aircraft, usually from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to bush airstrips located near or inside national parks and private conservancies. Instead of spending 5–8 hours on the road, you can be in the heart of the wild in just 45–90 minutes.

Once you land, your guide and vehicle are waiting  ready to take you straight to the action.

Benefits of a Fly-in Safari

1. Save Time & Energy

With Kenya’s parks spread out over long distances, fly-in safaris maximize your game viewing time and minimize travel fatigue. You’ll arrive refreshed and ready for adventure  not worn out from long, bumpy drives.

2. Reach Remote & Exclusive Areas

Fly-in safaris allow you to access remote parks and private conservancies that are difficult to reach by road, such as:

• Masai Mara Conservancies
• Samburu & Shaba
• Meru National Park
• Loisaba, Laikipia, and Lewa
• Chyulu Hills and Amboseli

These areas often offer more privacy, better wildlife sightings, and off-road freedom not allowed in national parks.

3. Enjoy Aerial Views of Kenya’s Landscapes

One of the most underrated perks of flying is the aerial perspective ,spotting elephants from above, watching the Mara River snake through the plains, or seeing Mount Kilimanjaro rise over Amboseli. It’s a safari before the safari!

4. Ideal for Luxury & Special-Occasion Travel

If you’re planning a honeymoon, anniversary, or luxury getaway, fly-in safaris provide the seamless experience you expect with top-tier lodges, scenic flights, and private service.

Any Downsides?

Fly-in safaris can be more expensive than driving, especially for families or groups. However, the time saved and access gained often outweigh the cost , particularly if you’re on a tight schedule or looking for a more relaxed pace.

Luggage restrictions also apply (typically 15 kg per person in soft bags), so pack light and plan smart. Chacal Safaris can help you coordinate laundry services and efficient packing tips.

Best Safari Combos for Fly-in Travel

• Masai Mara + Samburu + Amboseli – See Kenya’s top parks with minimal travel time
• Mara + Diani Beach – Fly from safari to sea in under two hours
• Laikipia + Mara Conservancies – Combine conservation and luxury in style

Take Off with Chacal Safaris

At Chacal Safaris, we offer custom fly-in safari itineraries designed to fit your schedule, budget, and travel style. From booking domestic flights to arranging luxury lodges and private guides, we take care of every detail.

Why You Should Book Your Safari Early: The Smart Traveler’s Advantage

Planning a safari is a thrilling part of the adventure,  but when you book can make all the difference. In Kenya, where wildlife experiences and top lodges are in high demand, early booking isn’t just smart , it’s essential.

At Chacal Safaris, we’ve seen firsthand how booking early leads to smoother planning, better prices, and access to some of the most exclusive safari experiences. Here’s why it pays to secure your safari well in advance.

1. Get the Best Accommodation Options

Many of Kenya’s best lodges and camps are small and intimate, with limited rooms designed to offer personalized service and privacy. During peak seasons , such as the Great Migration (July–October) or holiday periods , these properties fill up fast, sometimes six months to a year in advance.

By booking early, you have first pick of the best camps, prime locations inside national parks, and rooms with stunning views  instead of settling for what’s left.

2. Better Rates and Early Bird Discounts

Safari costs can add up, but planning early can help you save significantly. Many lodges and tour operators, including Chacal Safaris, offer early booking discounts or 2025/2026 pricing lock-ins, especially for travelers booking 6–12 months ahead.

Early booking also helps avoid last-minute airfares and surge pricing on flights, park fees, and other travel essentials.

3. Guaranteed Access to Popular Parks and Experiences

Certain experiences — like hot air balloon rides over the Maasai Mara, private conservancy safaris, or special cultural visits — have very limited availability and book out months in advance.

Booking early gives you the time to customize your trip and include unique activities that may not be available to late planners.

4. More Flexibility With Dates and Itineraries

Early booking puts you in control. You get to choose travel dates that align with seasonal highlights — like the calving season in the Serengeti, the migration in the Mara, or lush green-season safaris.

You also have time to fine-tune your itinerary, plan add-ons (like a beach escape in Diani or a cultural tour in Nairobi), and arrange travel insurance, visas, and vaccinations stress-free.

5. Peace of Mind – Better Travel

Booking your safari early takes a huge weight off your shoulders. No last-minute scrambling. No settling. No inflated prices. Just the excitement of knowing your once-in-a-lifetime trip is set ,  with every detail carefully planned by safari professionals.

At Chacal Safaris, we walk with you through every step , from the first inquiry to the final goodbye at the airport.

Secure Your Dream Safari with Chacal Safaris

Whether you’re planning a family holiday, honeymoon, solo adventure, or bucket-list trip, booking early gives you the advantage. It means more options, more value, and more time to get excited.

Kenya Safaris in the Green Season: Pros & Cons

When most travelers think of a Kenyan safari, they picture the dry season,  sunny skies, dusty trails, and easy wildlife viewing. But there’s another side to safari: the Green Season, a time when the landscapes come alive, rates drop, and nature shows off in vibrant color.

At Chacal Safaris, we believe the Green Season (typically March to May and November) offers unique advantages for those looking for a different kind of safari. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of visiting Kenya during this lush and underrated time of year.

What Is the Green Season?

The Green Season coincides with Kenya’s long rains (March–May) and short rains (November). While some areas receive heavy downpours, the rain often comes in short, dramatic bursts , usually in the late afternoon or evening ,leaving much of the day dry and clear.

During this period, the parks transform into green, flower-filled landscapes, creating beautiful contrasts against the usual dusty savannah.

Pros of a Green Season Safari

1. Lower Rates & Fewer Crowds

This is one of the biggest advantages. Lodges and camps offer significant discounts, and the parks are far less crowded. You can enjoy top-tier accommodations and private game drives at a fraction of the peak-season price.

2. Stunning Landscapes & Photography

The scenery during the Green Season is nothing short of spectacular. Lush grasslands, dramatic skies, and blooming wildflowers make for incredible photographic backdrops, especially for those who love landscape and bird photography.

3. Birdwatching Paradise

The Green Season is prime time for birdwatching. Migratory species from Europe and Asia arrive, and resident birds are in breeding plumage. You’ll see a wide variety of colorful, active birdlife around lakes, wetlands, and forests.

4. Baby Animals

With rains comes new life. Many animals give birth during this time, so you’re likely to see baby antelopes, zebras, warthogs, and more , along with the predators that follow them. It’s an exciting time to witness nature’s cycle up close.

Cons of a Green Season Safari

1. Muddy Roads & Difficult Access

Some areas  especially in remote or less-developed parks ,may become hard to access due to muddy roads or flooded tracks. Game drives may be delayed or rerouted.

2. Thicker Vegetation Means Harder Sightings

The lush greenery is beautiful, but it can also make spotting wildlife more challenging. Animals are more spread out, and tall grass can obscure views , especially of predators like lions or leopards.

3. Increased Insects

The rains bring out mosquitoes and other insects, so you’ll need to be more diligent with insect repellent and long clothing , especially in the evenings.

Is the Green Season Right for You?

If you’re looking for value, beauty, and a quieter safari, the Green Season might be perfect. It’s ideal for repeat travelers, bird lovers, photographers, or anyone who appreciates a more relaxed and intimate experience with nature.

Discover Kenya’s Secret Season with Chacal Safaris

At Chacal Safaris, we offer tailored Green Season safaris that maximize the advantages while avoiding common pitfalls. With experienced guides and carefully selected lodges, your journey will be as seamless as it is stunning.

How to Choose the Right Kenya Safari Operator

Planning a safari in Kenya is a dream for many , but choosing the right safari operator can be the difference between an average trip and a truly unforgettable adventure. With so many companies to choose from, how do you know who to trust, what to look for, and which safari experience fits your travel style?

At Chacal Safaris, we understand that this decision is a big one. That’s why we’ve put together this complete guide to help you choose the right Kenya safari operator , confidently and with clarity.

1. Look for Local Expertise

A safari is not just a tour , it’s an immersive experience in the wild. That’s why choosing a Kenya-based operator with local guides is so important. Local operators know the parks, the seasons, the wildlife patterns, and the hidden gems most tourists never see.

With Chacal Safaris, you benefit from deep-rooted local knowledge, personal connections with camps and lodges, and guides who speak the language of both the land and the wildlife.

2. Check the Operator’s Reputation

Reputation matters. Look for operators with strong reviews, testimonials, and a consistent presence across multiple platforms. Read past travelers’ experiences , not just star ratings  to understand how the company handles logistics, guides, vehicles, and customer care.

Ask yourself:

• Are they responsive and professional?
• Do they listen to your needs?
• Do they deliver what they promise?

Chacal Safaris is proud of our strong reputation for personalized service, transparent pricing, and responsible tourism.

3. Prioritize Safety and Quality

A safari should be thrilling  but never at the expense of safety. Make sure the operator maintains:

• Well-serviced, 4×4 safari vehicles
• Qualified, trained driver-guides
• Comprehensive insurance and emergency procedures
• Access to medical evacuation services in case of emergencies

At Chacal Safaris, we use only custom safari vehicles with pop-up roofs, radio communication, and experienced guides trained in safety protocols.

4. Flexibility in Itineraries and Budget

Every traveler is different , and so is every safari. A good operator offers customized itineraries tailored to your interests, timeline, and budget. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group, the right company should be able to craft an experience that feels personal.

Look for transparency in pricing ,  no hidden fees, vague descriptions, or last-minute surprises. At Chacal Safaris, what you see is what you get  and we work with you every step of the way.

5. Commitment to Responsible Tourism

Supporting wildlife and communities matters. Choose an operator that partners with eco-friendly lodges, supports local conservation, and treats guides and staff ethically.

Chacal Safaris is proud to promote sustainable travel that benefits both the environment and the people who call Kenya home.

Final Thoughts

Your safari is more than a holiday ,  it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Choosing the right Kenya safari operator ensures it’s safe, seamless, and deeply rewarding.

Ready to plan your dream safari with a team that truly knows Kenya?
Chacal Safaris is here to guide you every step of the way.

Lake Naivasha & Crescent Island: A Walking Safari Experience

Just a short drive from Nairobi, Lake Naivasha offers one of Kenya’s most peaceful and picturesque safari getaways , and at its heart lies a true hidden gem: Crescent Island. Here, instead of driving through the bush, you’ll walk among giraffes, zebras, and antelope, with no predators around , making it one of the few places in Africa where a walking safari is not only possible but completely safe.

At Chacal Safaris, we believe this is one of the most unique and relaxing safari experiences you can have in Kenya. Here’s everything you need to know before you visit.

A Freshwater Haven in the Rift Valley

Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake in the heart of the Great Rift Valley, surrounded by lush vegetation, acacia forests, and dramatic escarpments. Its high altitude and cooler climate make it a refreshing stop — perfect as part of a longer safari circuit or a peaceful weekend retreat.

The lake is home to hippos, waterbucks, and over 350 bird species, including fish eagles, kingfishers, herons, and pelicans. A boat ride on the lake is the perfect way to spot hippos up close and enjoy panoramic views of the Rift Valley.

Crescent Island: Walk Among Wildlife

Located on the eastern side of Lake Naivasha, Crescent Island Game Sanctuary is a privately owned reserve accessible by boat or vehicle. What sets it apart is its no-predator environment, allowing for a safe and serene walking safari.

With no fences and open savannah-like terrain, Crescent Island is a haven for:

• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Wildebeests
• Waterbucks
• Gazelles
• Impalas

You’ll walk alongside these animals, guided by a professional local naturalist who shares insight into the behavior and ecology of the area. It’s a truly intimate wildlife experience, one where you can observe animals at your own pace without the barrier of a vehicle.

Why Choose a Walking Safari?

Unlike a traditional game drive, a walking safari engages all your senses. You’ll hear birds calling, see tracks in the dust, and feel the quiet thrill of being on foot in the wild. For photographers, it’s also a golden opportunity to get eye-level shots and capture wildlife against stunning backdrops.

Crescent Island is ideal for families, nature lovers, or those looking to slow down and immerse themselves in nature , without the physical demands of hiking or trekking.

When to Visit

Lake Naivasha and Crescent Island are accessible year-round, with the dry seasons (June–October and January–March) offering the easiest walking conditions and clearest lake views. Mornings and late afternoons are the best times for walks, as the light is perfect and animals are most active.

Explore Naivasha with Chacal Safaris

At Chacal Safaris, we create custom day trips and overnight stays to Lake Naivasha, including boat rides, walking safaris on Crescent Island, and visits to nearby attractions like Hell’s Gate National Park and Mount Longonot.