Every step you take in the wild is a considered movement. A walking safari allows you to become fully immersed in the natural world. Skilled guides will show you not only the larger mammals but the smaller details, from a termite going about its business to a shy, rare bird hopping about in the undergrowth. Walks are tailored to suit your interests and fitness levels. Experiencing the quiet magic of the tiny creatures and plants that are the bedrock of wild spaces, and the adrenaline rush of seeing an elephant or rhino shambling through the thorn trees, makes for an unforgettable experience.
If walking is what gets you excited, then we have plenty of options in different locations to suit your interests and fitness level.
The Laikipia area is home to a number of pioneering wildlife conservancies where people and wildlife go hand in hand. This area is ideal for walking safaris, whether you prefer a multi-day trek supported by camels or a walk from your lodge or base camp. We have rounded up some of our favourites in the greater area below.
Walking Wild, a community-owned walking safari outfit, is located in Lewa Wildlife Conservancy and the Il’Ngwesi Community Ranch area. This is one of the few walking safaris that is managed by the original community living in the area, which makes for an unprecedented experience. Traditional knowledge gathered over a lifetime is imparted and the paths you will follow on foot have been carved into the soil over centuries.
Archaeology meets modern-day culture, conservation practice and geology at Karisia Walking Safaris. Experiencing not just the wild and its animals, but also the ancient archeological and geological history of the area, adds another layer to this immersive experience. Options are available for multi-day walks or daily walks from your base camp in Tumaren private conservancy in the eastern Laikipia area.
Borana Lodge, in the Borana conservancy, provides the perfect base for a gentler walking experience. Venture out with your guide in the early morning and bask in the quiet of the bush. Or if you’ve got itchy feet and need to work off all the delicious safari fare you’ve been indulging in, head out on a jog accompanied by a fit armed guard. After a hearty lunch and siesta, set out on foot once again to track the resident black rhino, treading lightly as your experienced guides get you up close and personal to these magnificent beasts. Every cent earned by the lodge is plowed back into conservation and the Borana conservancy.
Loisaba is great fun for everyone and activities are not limited to walking. If you like trying out new things and are looking for more than just a game drive, we highly recommend Loisaba. Not only do they offer walking safaris, but also horse riding, camel treks, mountain biking, fishing and cultural experiences. Of course, you can also opt to explore the conservancy by vehicle or just relax at the lodge. Another unique activity is to visit the K9 anti-poaching unit for a demonstration by their tracker dogs. Learning about the anti-poaching efforts in this area will leave you truly inspired.
Walking in the Maasai Mara is a privilege reserved for a special few. To walk across the Mara Plains, treading carefully in your guide’s footsteps, is to experience one of the world’s most iconic wildlife destinations from a completely different angle. In Kenya, you are not allowed out of your vehicle in the national parks, but staying in one of the adjacent private conservancies does afford you this opportunity. Kicheche Mara Camp offers a daily escorted bush walk ranging from two to four hours, depending on your preference. Kicheche also offers longer walking safaris with overnight camp-outs that need to be booked in advance.
Beho Beho in Nyerere National Park in Tanzania is known for its walking safaris, but game drives are still an option. This vast reserve feels incredibly wild: you might follow a well-worn game trail here and there and then find yourself carving your own path across the flood plains, through the riverine forests, miombo woodlands and up into the hills. A highly recommended option is to go further afield to the lake regions of Tagalala and Mwanze for something completely different. Your walks can start directly from camp or from a vehicle will take you further afield. No day is the same and you can decide what you would like to do.
Your main activity in Uganda is probably gorilla trekking, but we recommend adding on a day or two to explore the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest on daily hikes into the lush rainforest depths. You’ll make your way deeper and deeper into this green and surprisingly noisy oasis high up on the hills. Keep an eye out for a range of primate species and all sorts of interesting birds and insects. Walks range from half an hour to full-day outings and there are numerous trails to choose from — waterfalls, giant trees and spectacular views are all to be expected. One of our favourite places to stay in this area is the Volcanoes Bwindi Safari Lodge located at the edge of the forest. Sometimes chimpanzees and gorillas drop in for a visit. From here you can access the forest directly for hikes.
