African elephants are easily identified by their long trunks, tusks, and enormous ears. They are well-known not only for their commanding physical traits, but also for their extraordinary social cognition including their ability to count, communicate complex messages, and even mourn the dead.
In Africa, these magnificent creatures can either be seen in East Africa or South Africa in huge numbers. They are one of the most sought-after mammals on safari, and here are the five best places to spot them in Kenya:
1. Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park is home to the world’s longest-running elephant research and conservation center. It is the first destination where the elephants were first spotted celebrating their newborn, developing friendships, and mourning the death of a family member. Today, this park holds the annual Magical Kenya Elephant Naming Festival to advocate for their conservation. This park is also approximately a four-hour drive from Nairobi, making it the perfect spot for a weekend getaway.
Best Accommodation: Ol Tukai Lodge
2. Tsavo National Park
Tsavo National Park is the largest National Park in Kenya, covering an area of 22,000 square kilometers. This park is divided into two sections, Tsavo East National Park and Tsavo West National Park. Both sections are home to 10,000 ‘red’ elephants,” the only kind that can be found in Kenya
Best Accommodation: Severin Safari Camp
3. Samburu National Reserve
Samburu National Reserve has long been lauded as the best place to see elephants in Kenya, all thanks to its population of approximately 900 elephants. It is also one of the best destinations that have played a key role in elephants conservation, all thanks to the ground-breaking conservation work of The Douglas-Hamilton family in partnership with the local community
Best Accommodation: Elephant Bedroom
4. Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
Despite the fact that Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is very popular for its growing rhino population, the conservancy is also home to a good population of elephants, with over 400 elephants calling this place home. The Conservancy also boasts a few comfortable lodges where guests can enjoy this magnificent wildlife area to the fullest.
Best Accommodation: Lewa Wilderness
5. David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
This Wildlife Trust is just a few minutes’ drive away from Nairobi’s Central Business District making it one of the best options for visitors who want to see Elephants in Kenya but do not have time to go on a classic safari. It is open for visitors every day for one hour, between eleven o’clock in the morning and twelve O’clock in the afternoon. Visitors who are also interested in adopting an elephant are welcome to reserve a five o’clock appointment in the evening when the elephants return to the stockades for the night.
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