While 4×4 game drives are the most common way to see African wildlife, walking safaris offer something different: a deeper, more connected experience. You’re not just a passenger watching animals — you’re part of the landscape, moving at the pace of nature.
In both Ruaha National Park (Tanzania) and Laikipia (Kenya), walking safaris give you the chance to explore off the beaten track, led by experienced guides and trackers who live and breathe these ecosystems.
Ruaha is Tanzania’s largest and least-visited park, but it’s also one of the most rewarding for walking safaris. The terrain is rugged and remote, with baobab trees, rocky outcrops, and dry riverbeds that become wildlife highways. Guided walks are led by trained experts who know how to keep you safe while pointing out things you’d miss from a vehicle — like spoor, birds, insects, and plant life.
What makes walking in Ruaha different?
It’s less about chasing the Big Five and more about understanding the ecosystem
There are fewer tourists, so it feels more private
Elephant and lion sightings on foot are possible, but approached cautiously and at a distance
Best time to go: June to October (dry season) for better visibility and easier walking.
Laikipia offers structured, conservancy-based walking safaris. Many camps here work directly with local communities, and walks are often led by Samburu or Maasai guides. It’s not just about wildlife — it’s about learning how people and animals share space.
You’re likely to encounter giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and possibly rhinos, depending on the conservancy. These walks typically last 2–4 hours and can be tailored to your comfort level.
What to expect in Laikipia:
Well-organized conservancies with strong safety protocols
Mixed wildlife and cultural knowledge from your guides
Option to combine walks with camel-supported treks or fly camping
Top conservancies to consider:
Lewa Conservancy – Known for rhino tracking on foot.
Ol Malo – Offers camel-assisted treks and immersive walking experiences.
Borana and Ol Pejeta – Excellent for combining walking with conservation learning.
If you’ve already done a traditional safari or want something immersive and personal, Ruaha and Laikipia both offer rewarding walking safaris. They won’t deliver constant action — but what they offer is something deeper: real connection, perspective, and understanding.
Thank you for your interest in a private safari from Classic Safaris. You’re about to start on your own personal journey to East Africa. Please complete this interest form and we shall get in touch with you to discuss your trip.
Masai Lane 45, Karen
P.O.Box 66229-00800 Nairobi, Kenya.
info@classicsafaris.co.ke
+254716269009,
+254716269255
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