When in Kenya, going on safari is an absolute must. It’s one of the few places on earth where you can witness some of the world’s most legendary animals in their natural habitat. On most safaris, the focus tends to fall on the so-called “Big Five.” Once a term used by hunters to describe the most challenging animals to track on foot, it now has a gentler meaning. Namely, the icons that every wildlife enthusiast dreams of seeing: lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and Cape buffalo.
Spotting any one of these is an unforgettable experience. And Kenya is also home to other world-famous animals like the cheetah, hippo, zebra, flamingo, and giraffe, which rival the Big Five as instant symbols of Africa’s beauty. But what about the wildlife that doesn’t always make the spotlight, yet adds just as much wonder (and often brilliant photo opportunities) to your journey? At Hayes & Jarvis, we have some lesser-known favourite African safari animals that we hope you’ll encounter on your own Kenyan adventure.
1. Wildebeest
The Cape buffalo’s size and horns may make it a star, but wildebeest are fascinating animals in their own right. Standing nearly as tall as an adult human and weighing up to 270 kilograms, they are actually antelopes and can reach speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour. Fortunately, you won’t need a high-speed camera to capture them: great herds of wildebeest can often be seen grazing alongside zebras. One of the best times to witness them in Kenya is between mid-July and mid-September, when more than a million make their way across the Maasai Mara as part of the annual Great Migration.
2. Nile Crocodiles
Mammals tend to dominate wish-lists of wildlife in Kenya; however, one of the most unforgettable animals spends most of its life in the water: the Nile crocodile. This species stands out not just for its size – it’s the second-largest crocodile in the world – but also for its intelligence. Nile crocodiles have been observed using sticks as primitive tools, and unlike many reptiles, they are social animals and attentive parents. Look out for them along the Mara River in the Maasai Mara National Reserve or at Lake Turkana in Northern Kenya.
3. Pangolins
Not every memorable encounter is with something large or fearsome. Some of the most remarkable Kenya safari animals can be found on a smaller scale, like the pangolin. Recognisable for its distinctive scales, this anteater-like creature feeds mainly on insects. Solitary and mostly nocturnal, pangolins spend much of the day curled up in a protective ball, though they are capable of walking upright and even swimming. Spotting one is a challenge but with expert guides you stand the best chance of glimpsing this elusive, and endangered, animal in the wild.
4. Bat-Eared Fox
One of the most endearing animals found in Kenya is the bat-eared fox, named for its most striking feature: enormous ears, nearly half as long as its body. Small in stature, usually under 60 centimeters long, these highly social foxes live in pairs or groups and form strong bonds. Their raccoon-like faces and oversized ears make them a favourite among those lucky enough to spot them roaming grasslands and savannas, where they help humans by feeding primarily on termites.
5. Desert Warthogs
If you found yourself humming Hakuna Matata, you’re not alone. The desert warthog is one of two warthog species found in Kenya, and while their tusks and rugged looks might seem intimidating, they are much more likely to run than fight when threatened. Warthogs are commonly seen grazing in groups across Kenya’s national parks and reserves. With luck, you may even witness a charming sight: warthogs being groomed by their smaller mongoose and vervet monkey companions.
How to See the Top Animals in Kenya
Kenya’s wildlife offers countless surprises, from the official Big Five to the hidden gems that few travellers expect. With Hayes & Jarvis, your safari is designed entirely around you. We partner with the finest lodges, camps and guides to ensure every detail of your journey is seamless, so you can focus on the thrill of discovery. Whether it’s chasing the Great Migration, marvelling at rare creatures, or simply soaking up the vast savannas, our experts will create a tailor-made adventure that includes the best places to see wildlife in Kenya.
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An Experts Guide To Kenya
Written by: The Hayes & Jarvis Team
Posted in: Animal encounters
Kenya inspiration
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