Kenya is renowned as one of the premier destinations for leopard sightings in Africa. If you’re eager to catch a glimpse of these magnificent big cats, here are the best national parks and reserves to consider for your safari adventure.
Nestled in the southern corner of the Rift Valley, Samburu National Reserve is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. This reserve is teeming with diverse game and is particularly famous for its population of leopards. It’s an ideal location for those keen on filming leopards in their natural habitat.
The Masai Mara National Reserve is celebrated worldwide as one of the top wildlife destinations. Not only can you expect to see leopards here, but you can also witness the Great Migration every July, when over 1.5 million wildebeests, along with thousands of zebras and Thomson’s gazelles, make their journey from the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing grounds. This spectacular event offers incredible opportunities to film lions and cheetahs as they hunt during the migration.
As the largest national park in Kenya, Tsavo National Park, established in 1948, is often referred to as the “Theatre of the Wild.” The park is divided into East and West, with the Nairobi-Mombasa railway running between them. Its varied habitats make it a great place to spot leopards among many other species.
Famous for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park offers more than just picturesque landscapes. Here, you can spot leopards while also enjoying sightings of large herds of elephants, all against the breathtaking backdrop of Africa’s tallest mountain.
Located at the foothills of Aberdares National Park and the snow-capped Mount Kenya, Ol Pejeta Conservancy is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards. It is also renowned for its conservation efforts, particularly for endangered black and white rhinos.
In addition to the parks mentioned, you can also spot leopards in other notable locations such as Marsabit National Park, Nasolot National Park, Mwingi National Park, Kora National Park, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Meru National Park, Mwea National Reserve, Bisanadi National Park, and Simba Hills National Park.
If you’re eager to include leopard spotting in your safari plans, consider our popular packages:
Once you’ve finalized your travel dates, email us to check the availability of services for your safari. We’ll confirm availability and provide you with a draft itinerary to help you plan your adventure. After you approve the itinerary, we’ll send an invoice for a deposit. Upon receiving your payment, we’ll secure all services for your trip. For optimal planning, especially during peak season (June to October), we recommend booking your safari at least 2-3 months in advance.
Travelers to Kenya will need a tourist visa, which can conveniently be obtained online for USD 51. Many visitors choose to secure their visas before arriving in Kenya, ensuring a smoother travel experience.
In Kenya, you’ll find a range of accommodation options from budget-friendly lodges to luxurious resorts, tailored to fit various interests and budgets. Feel free to contact us for recommendations on where to stay for the best chances of spotting leopards.
You can spot leopards in Kenya year-round, but the best times are from December to February and June to October. These months typically offer drier conditions, enhancing your chances of great sightings and photography opportunities.
Trek Africa Expeditions specializes in crafting unforgettable safari experiences in Kenya. We are highly rated on TripAdvisor and focus on eco-friendly, high-end adventures that support biodiversity, wildlife conservation, and local communities. Our offerings include gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, Big 5 safaris, game viewing, mountain hiking, boat cruises, and cultural encounters, ensuring you have a memorable and enriching experience in Africa.
If you’re looking to explore the best national parks to see leopards in Kenya, contact us today! Let us help you plan an unforgettable safari adventure.