Complete list of 23 national parks in Kenya

Aberdare

Amboseli

Arabuko Sokoke

Central Island

Chyulu Hills

Hell's Gate

Kora

Lake Nakuru

Malka Mari

Marsabit

Meru

Mount Elgon

Mount Kenya

Mount Longonot

Nairobi

Ndere Island

Ol Donyo Sabuk

Ruma

Saiwa Swamp

Sibiloi

South Island

Tsavo East

Tsavo West

Kenya National Parks

The Aberdare National Park is a high-altitude park known for its diverse landscapes including deep ravines, forested slopes, and moorland plateaus. It provides a habitat for various wildlife including black rhinos, elephants, and rare mountain bongos. The park was a key hideout during Kenya's independence struggle and features two famous treehouse lodges.

Amboseli National Park is renowned for its large elephant herds and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The park features a unique ecosystem with a mix of swamps, dry plains, and woodlands. It's considered one of the best places in Africa to get close to free-ranging elephants and hosts over 400 bird species.

Arabuko Sokoke is the largest remaining stretch of coastal forest in East Africa. The forest is home to several endangered species including the Sokoke Scops Owl and the Golden-rumped Elephant Shrew. It contains three distinct forest types and provides crucial habitat for numerous endemic species.

Central Island National Park consists of three active volcanoes on an island in Lake Turkana. The island features three crater lakes that are home to Nile crocodiles and various bird species. It's an important breeding ground for crocodiles and flamingos.

Chyulu Hills National Park is a mountain range of volcanic origin with some of the youngest volcanic hills in the world. The park offers spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro and is known for its unique cloud forest ecosystem. It features extensive cave systems and pristine wilderness areas.

Hell's Gate National Park is characterized by dramatic scenery including towering cliffs, gorges, and volcanic rock formations. The park is one of the few where visitors can walk or cycle among wildlife. It features active geothermal stations and was the inspiration for landscapes in Disney's The Lion King.

Kora National Park is a remote wilderness area famous as the home of conservationist George Adamson. The park features diverse landscapes including inselbergs, rocky outcrops, and riverine vegetation along the Tana River. It provides habitat for lions, leopards, and various antelope species.

Lake Nakuru National Park is famous for its large flocks of flamingos and diverse bird species. The park is also a sanctuary for black and white rhinos, and houses a significant population of Rothschild's giraffes. The alkaline lake and surrounding grasslands support a rich ecosystem of wildlife.

Malka Mari National Park is located in the remote northeastern corner of Kenya along the Ethiopian border. The park encompasses semi-arid landscapes and is home to various wildlife species adapted to the harsh environment. It remains one of Kenya's least visited national parks due to its remote location.

Marsabit National Park is centered around an extinct volcano and features dense forest surrounded by desert. The park is known for its crater lakes, ancient volcanic crater, and dense forest which creates a unique microclimate. It's home to large tusked elephants and various bird species.

Meru National Park is a wild and remote park known for its diverse landscapes and rivers. The park offers pristine wilderness and is famous for its elephant herds and big cat populations. It was also the home of conservationists George and Joy Adamson, known for their work with lions.

Mount Elgon National Park is centered around the extinct shield volcano of Mount Elgon. The park features unique flora and fauna adapted to high altitudes, including rare species of plants and animals. Its caves and hot springs are major attractions for visitors.

Mount Kenya National Park encompasses Africa's second-highest peak and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park features diverse vegetation zones, from tropical forest to bamboo groves to alpine moorland. It is home to numerous endemic species and offers challenging climbing routes.

Mount Longonot National Park is centered around a dormant stratovolcano with a large crater rim. The park offers hiking opportunities and spectacular views of the Great Rift Valley. The volcanic terrain supports diverse wildlife and plant species adapted to the unique environment.

Nairobi National Park is unique as the only national park in the world located within a capital city. The park features wide open grass plains with scattered acacia bush against the city skyline. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife including black rhinos, lions, and over 400 bird species.

Ndere Island National Park is a small island park in Lake Victoria known for its bird life and fishing opportunities. The park provides a peaceful retreat with hiking trails and viewpoints. It serves as an important conservation area for various bird species and small mammals.

Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park is centered around a mountain forest rising above the surrounding plains. The park is known for its buffalo population and historical significance. It offers hiking opportunities and views of the surrounding countryside.

Ruma National Park is Kenya's only sanctuary for the rare roan antelope. The park features rolling savannah and woodland habitats along the Kanyamwa Escarpment. It is also home to various bird species and other wildlife including leopards and buffalo.

Saiwa Swamp National Park is Kenya's smallest national park, established to protect the endangered Sitatunga antelope. The park consists of swamp and forest habitat with raised wooden walkways for visitors. It is an important bird watching site with numerous rare species.

Sibiloi National Park, located on the shores of Lake Turkana, is known as the cradle of mankind due to its important fossil discoveries. The park features semi-desert habitat and important archaeological sites. It is home to numerous species adapted to the harsh environment including Grevy's zebras and various water birds.

South Island National Park is a volcanic island located in Lake Turkana. The park is an important breeding ground for Nile crocodiles and various bird species including flamingos. The rugged terrain features volcanic formations and offers spectacular views of the lake and surrounding landscape.

Tsavo East is one of Kenya's oldest and largest parks, known for its large herds of dust-red elephants and diverse wildlife. The park features the Galana River, Yatta Plateau, and vast savannah landscapes. It is home to numerous species including lions, leopards, giraffes, and various antelope species.

Tsavo West is known for its magnificent views of Mount Kilimanjaro and diverse landscapes including volcanic hills, natural springs, and extensive savannah. The park features the famous Mzima Springs where visitors can view hippos and crocodiles from an underwater observatory. The park is also home to the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary and various big game species.