Uncrowded Samburu National Reserve is a secret shared only among safari aficionados. On the sandy banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro river, anything from a pride of lions to a herd of leaping impala can appear at any time. While Samburu has more than its fair share of big game, the reserve is also home to a rare group of animals called the Special Five. The heavily protected area between Mount Kenya and the northern deserts is one of the last refuges for rare black rhino and a treasured sanctuary for species like Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe and wild dog.

In addition to the usual list of family safari activities, add chimpanzees, camel trekking led by Samburu tribesmen, scenic flights and hands-on conservation programmes

Closely guarded by Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park is small enough to experience in 1-2 days yet supports a vast array of wildlife, especially in and around its wetland areas. On the park’s long species list, are elephant, buffalo, lion and leopard—which are often easy to spot on game drives across the low scrubby vegetation and open plains. Other ways for families to explore the park include horse-back safaris and nature walks.

On the route of the famous Great Wildebeest Migration, the low-traffic private conservancies of the Masai Mara offer some of the most reliable game viewing experiences in Africa. Here, guides are allowed to go off-roading in pursuit of animals such as big cats and can take guests on night drives. The Mara is also a popular destination for families, offering guided walks, hot-air ballooning, and opportunities to experience traditional Masai culture firsthand.