Where to see Buffalo in Kenya
One of the celebrated so-called Big Five, the buffalo’s fearsome reputation derives largely from hunters’ tales. Visitors will usually find this big, sociable bovid to be a largely placid animal – although courageous in defence against predators.
Quick facts about Buffalo
| Scientific name: | Syncerus caffer | Habitat: | Floodplains, mixed bush & moist grasslands |
|---|---|---|---|
| IUCN status: | Near-threatened | Adult weight: | 500–950kg |
Kenya is home to a significant population of the subspecies of African buffalo, Cape buffalo (Syncerus caffer caffer), with a smaller population of a second subspecies, Forest buffalo (Syncerus caffer nanus), found in Kenya’s forested areas.
There are an estimated 30,000 to 45,000 Cape buffalo distributed across Kenya’s national parks and protected areas. These bovines play a crucial ecological role as bulk grazers and seed dispersers, helping to maintain grassland ecosystems, whilst their wallowing and dust-bathing creates microhabitats for other species.
The Cape buffalo population in Amboseli National Park has developed a unique partial resistance to the diseases carried by Maasai livestock over decades, allowing the population to remain stable despite outbreaks. They are especially abundant here, as well as across the Maasai Mara and Tsavo ecosystems.
1.7m
Max. shoulder height (male)
164cm
Record horn span (tip to tip)
±400,000
Today’s population
11 months
gestation period
The top camps for seeing buffalo in Kenya
Based on 665 reports by our travellers since May 2018, visitors at these camps in Kenya have the best chances of sighting buffalo.
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Our suggestions for sighting buffalo in Kenya
Part of the annual 'Great Migration', buffalo join wildebeest, zebra, gazelle, and other species as they traverse the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing – and this isn't the only place to see them.
Best locations for buffalo in Kenya
While not currently endangered, African buffalo face threats from habitat loss, poaching, and diseases transmitted by domestic livestock, with Kenya’s most sizeable populations found across several conservation areas.
The Maasai Mara National Reserve and neighbouring conservancies have large herds of 200-300 individuals year-round whilst Cape buffalo are likely to be found congregating around water sources during the dry season (June to October), such as in Amboseli National Park. In Tsavo East and West, early morning game drives near the Galana and Tsavo rivers can yield impressive sightings whilst the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia promises iconic views of herds grazing on open plains.
As lone buffalo have a reputation for their aggressive and unpredictable temperament, your experienced safari guide will work to avoid startling or blocking the path of these wild animals during your activities.
Our best Kenya holidays for buffalo sightings
Based on our travellers' reports, these ideas for Kenya safaris are likely to give the best buffalo sightings
The Highlights of Africa
17 days • 7 locations
CAPE TOWN AIRPORT TO KIGALI AIRPORT
An epic adventure taking in some of Africa’s most incredible sights and wildlife experiences, from Cape Town to the Okavango Delta, Victoria Falls, the Maasai Mara and an encounter with mountain gorillas.
US$16,210 - US$19,610 per person
Black Kite Fly-in Safari
10 days • 4 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT
Explore Kenya in-depth with visits to Nairobi and Meru national parks, the Mara Conservancies and Amboseli. Nestled in remoter regions, four camps provide fantastic access to rich game, a range of activities and beautifully diverse landscapes.
US$10,000 - US$11,960 per person
Elephant Safari
10 days • 3 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT
This example of a mid-range Kenya safari and beach trip explores the wildlife of Tsavo West's volcanic plains and woodlands, Tsavo East's immense plains and the white-sand beaches and lush environment of Diani Beach.
US$5,760 - US$6,200 per person
De Brazza Monkey Fly-in Safari
9 days • 3 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT
Enjoy a range of activities in the remote wilderness of northern Kenya before exploring the wildlife-rich plains of the Mara ecosystem. Private vehicles and guides heighten the personalisation of this highly immersive safari.
US$13,540 - US$16,320 per person
Martial Eagle Fly-in Safari
9 days • 3 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
This stylish fly-in safari visits two of Africa’s most iconic parks, the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya and Tanzania's Serengeti National Park.
US$11,820 - US$17,740 per person
Gorillas and Maasai Mara Safari
9 days • 3 locations
KIGALI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT
This trip combines two of Africa's most unforgettable wildlife experiences – Rwanda's mountain gorillas and Kenya's Maasai Mara.
US$11,120 - US$13,490 per person
Golden Jackal Fly-in Safari
8 days • 2 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT
A contrasting safari of a lodge and a tented camp, with action-packed activities in Laikipia and wildlife-filled game drives in the Maasai Mara, offers a consistently high-quality experience.
US$11,040 - US$14,130 per person
Rothschild Giraffe Safari
8 days • 3 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT
A example of a luxury Kenyan safari, starting at the iconic Giraffe Manor before fabulous stays on the spectacular Solio Reserve and Sala’s Camp in a remote corner of the Maasai Mara.
US$12,650 - US$17,830 per person
Hamerkop Fly-In Safari
8 days • 2 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT
Different wildlife, contrasting camps and a whole host of activities, this is a safari for those wanting to get out and about and not just sit in a vehicle.
US$7,120 - US$10,960 per person
Big Cat Fly-in Safari
8 days • 2 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT
Combining two of Kenya’s best wildlife-viewing areas, this slow-paced safari to the Lewa Conservancy and Maasai Mara guarantees iconic wildlife. The long-established, well-rated camps are great value, too.
US$5,690 - US$8,850 per person
Where buffalo can be found across sub-Saharan Africa
Click here for detailed information about buffalo in other countries, including the places for sighting buffalo.
