Kenya Wildlife: A Guide to 40 Breathtaking Animal Species

Our recent 17-day safari in Kenya was an absolute dream come true. Exploring the country’s stunning National Parks, wildlife reserves, and community-based conservancies provided us with unforgettable memories that we’re thrilled to share. The sheer diversity of wildlife in Kenya exceeded our wildest expectations.

From the famous “Big Five” and the vibrant colors of the bird kingdom to the lesser-known “Northern Five” and “Ugly Five,” Kenya’s animal kingdom put on a mesmerizing show each day. To give you a taste of the magic, we’ve compiled 40 stunning photos of our favorite Kenyan animals, including some lesser-known gems like the Eland, Large-spotted Genet, Gerenuk, and Rock Hyrax.

Kenyan Wildlife Safari Checklist

Click here to download our printable Animals in Kenya List, which includes the Big Five, the Northern Five, and the Ugly Five, to create your own Kenya Wildlife Safari Checklist.

The Big Five Kenya Animals

Cape Buffalo

Cape Buffalo in Nairobi National Park, Kenya

The Cape Buffalo, the largest of Africa’s buffalos, is a mighty sight to behold. Weighing in at around 1,000 lbs, these massive creatures can be found grazing in different grassy landscapes across Africa. They have an interesting symbiotic relationship with birds known as Oxpeckers, which perch on their backs and help keep them clean by eating ticks and bugs. Despite their size, Cape Buffalos are sensitive to the sun and prefer to stay in tall grass close to water bodies to stay cool. They are also susceptible to various diseases that affect cows.

African Elephant

African Elephants in Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Kenya

The African Elephant is an iconic species in East Africa, known for its majestic presence. These gentle giants stand tall at an average height of 11 feet and weigh around 6 tons. African Elephants play a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem by creating open areas for grasslands through their tree-knocking behavior. Sadly, they are increasingly targeted by poachers for their ivory tusks. Conservation efforts are being made to protect these magnificent animals and their habitats.

East African Lion

National animal of Kenya – the East African Lion (with Wildebeest Kill in Ol Kinyei Conservancy, Kenya)

The East African Lion, considered the king of all Kenyan animals, is an imposing figure. With a luxurious mane and a powerful roar, male lions weigh between 350 and 500 lbs,