The Big Five and Beyond Mount Kenya: Safari Extensions Once You Have Conquered Mount Kenya

You’ve conquered Mount Kenya or gazed up its icy spires , but your adventure doesn’t have to end at the summit.

Just beyond the forested slopes of this iconic mountain lies a world of untamed wildlife, vast savannahs, and some of Kenya’s best safari experiences. Whether you’re chasing the legendary Big Five or rare species found nowhere else, there are incredible safari extensions near Mount Kenya to complete your trip.

Here’s your guide to the top post-trek safari destinations, and why adding a safari to your Mount Kenya climb might be the best decision you make.

1. Ol Pejeta Conservancy: The Best All-in-One Safari Near Mount Kenya

 Distance from Mount Kenya: 45 min drive

Ol Pejeta is a must-visit. It’s the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa and home to the last two northern white rhinos on Earth. This 90,000-acre conservancy offers an unbeatable mix of conservation, luxury, and raw wilderness.

 Highlights:

• Spot all Big Five (including black and white rhinos)

• Visit the Sweetwater’s Chimpanzee Sanctuary

• Night game drives and guided bush walks

• Home to endangered Grevy’s zebra and African wild dogs

2. Samburu National Reserve: Wild, Remote & Untouched

 Distance: ~3-4 hours north of Mount Kenya

For a rugged and less crowded safari experience, head to Samburu. Located in the arid northern region, this reserve is famed for its “Samburu Special Five”—species unique to northern Kenya.

Unique Wildlife:

• Beisa oryx

• Reticulated giraffe

• Somali ostrich

• Gerenuk

• Grevy’s zebra

Samburu also has leopards, elephants, and lions, often seen near the Ewaso Nyiro River.

3. Laikipia Plateau: Kenya’s Conservation Heartland

 Distance: Adjacent to Mount Kenya’s northwest region

Laikipia is not a single park, but a collection of private conservancies that rival national parks in biodiversity and exclusivity. It’s a paradise for eco-travelers and photographers.

 What Makes It Special:

• High concentration of endangered species

• Walking safaris, camel treks, and fly camping

• Excellent chance of spotting rhinos, cheetahs, and even wild dogs

• Low tourist traffic, high-quality guiding

4. Aberdare National Park: Misty Forests & Rare Species

 Distance: ~2 hours southwest of Mount Kenya

Want to spot forest elephants, bongo antelope, or even a leopard on your lodge balcony? Head to the Aberdares, where wildlife meets misty mountain terrain.

Highlights:

• Stay at iconic tree lodges like The Ark or Treetops

• High-altitude forest species

• Great combo of wildlife and scenic hiking

5. Meru National Park: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure

 Distance: ~2–3 hours east of Mount Kenya

Made famous by Elsa the lioness of Born Free, Meru is a lush, underrated park with 13 rivers, swamps, and tons of wildlife, but few tourists.

Wildlife to Expect:

• Lions, elephants, cheetahs

• Hippos and crocs in the rivers

• Thriving rhino sanctuary

• Unspoiled landscapes for quiet game drives

Why Add a Safari to Your Mount Kenya Trek?

After days on the trail, a safari near Mount Kenya is the perfect way to relax and celebrate. You get the best of both worlds:

•  Mountains by day, wildlife by night

•  Big Five sightings without long drives to Maasai Mara

•  Luxury lodges, bush breakfasts, and sunset game drives

Plus, all these destinations are easily accessible, no need to fly or travel far after your climb.

Safari Planning Tips

•  Best Time to Go: January–March and July–October

• Transportation: Cross Wild Safaris offers private 4×4 transfers and combo packages

•  Gear Up: Bring a zoom lens, binoculars, and safari-friendly clothing

Why choose between a climb and a safari when you can do both?

At Cross Wild Safaris, we specialize in tailored Mount Kenya and safari packages that blend adventure, wildlife, and comfort. Whether you want to see rhinos in Ol Pejeta, track lions in Samburu, or relax in a treetop lodge in Aberdare, we’ll make it happen.

 Trek, track, and travel in style with expert local guides and seamless logistics. Contact US to start planning your dream adventure.