Kenya travel guide
Kenya is an amazing country with a diverse landscape and culture. Our Kenya travel guide will help you plan your trip. If you are looking for a Kenya travel guide that will take you to some of the most popular tourist destinations, look no further. This Kenya tour guide has everything you will need to start planning your trip.
About Kenya
Even in the bustling city of Nairobi, there’s still room to enjoy nature. Within city limits, Kenya has a national park where you can see zebras and giraffes living side by side. And beyond the parks are dozens of different tribal villages, each with its own unique culture and way of life. The semi-nomadic Maasai tribe, with their colourful bead adornments, is perhaps the most obvious group to visit, but any tribal village is an enlightening experience.
What to do and see in Kenya
There are always things to do and see in Kenya, that even a month there won’t be enough to get a taste of this country.
Elephants and the environment
The Maasai Mara’s elephants are overpopulated because their old migration routes have been cut off. Each adult elephant can consume up to 170kg of plant material each day, so they help clear away large amounts of foliage each month.
Across the Serengeti, elephant dung creates an interesting ecological balance. While its large size can devastate foliage and put new life at risk, its droppings also entice dung beetles to break them down into tiny pellets, which then bring new life to the soil.
Kenya’s peoples
As you approach the various tribes that populate Kenya, you can feel their history in the air. The Maasai, long considered the strongest and most dominant group on the African continent, are famed for their warrior tradition. The Samburu live on a vast reserve in the south of Kenya and rely heavily on cattle herding for their livelihoods. The Turkana people are nomadic pastoralists who live in arid regions of Eastern Africa. The Swahili people inhabit an area spanning from Tanzania to South Africa and are known for their trade skills. Lastly, the Kikuyu people form one of Kenya’s largest ethnic groups and reside mainly in Central Kenya. Each tribe has its own unique culture and history, which you can explore by getting close to them during your time in Kenya.
The Maasai and Samburu people are small in comparison to the other ethnic groups in Kenya. They are known for their distinctive traditional dress, which is still commonly worn, and they herd their animals across vast stretches of savanna. Some of the other remote northern groups also retain their traditional garb and weapons.
Stirring Landscapes
Kenya is home to some of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth. From the rugged coastline of the Indian Ocean, to the Great Rift Valley, and even the dense forests that are reminiscent of Africa’s heart, Kenya has it all. This country is a visual feast for any traveler, and its natural wonders are sure to inspire feelings of awe and wonder.
Abundant Wildlife
Kenya is home to some of the most majestic and endangered creatures in Africa. The Masai Mara holds wildebeest and zebras in their millions, while Amboseli elephants can be seen towering above the plains at Mt Kilimanjaro. Elsewhere, pink flamingos flit through lakes in droves. It’s a wilderness that still exists as the last great place for these creatures to live.
If you’re looking for a wildlife adventure that will leave you feeling awe-inspired, look no further than Kenya. From the Masai Mara, home to some of Africa’s most majestic and endangered creatures, to Amboseli National Park, where elephants can be seen towering above the plains, this country has it all.
Conservation’s Home
Kenya’s success in reversing the wildlife poaching crisis is a testament to the power of tough love. Armed rangers were pivotal in establishing successful conservation policies, and since then Kenya has seen a remarkable rebound in its wilderness areas. Private and community conservancies have worked together to create a thriving tourism industry that benefits both the environment and local communities.
Amboseli National Park
Amboseli is a park that belongs in the elite group of Kenya’s national parks. It is easy to see why this is the case- Amboseli offers a stunningly beautiful landscape that is full of wildlife. Visitors are sure to enjoy their time here, thanks to the abundance of animals and nature-related activities available.
If you’re planning a trip to Amboseli, be sure to bring your camera. You’ll be able to capture some of the most beautiful wildlife photos that you’ll ever see. Not only will you be able to see lions, elephants, and other large animals up close, but you’ll also be able to see smaller creatures like monkeys and baboons.
Fort Jesus
Fort Jesus is a 16th-century fort and UNESCO World Heritage site is Mombasa’s most visited site. The metre-thick walls, frescoed interiors, traces of European architecture, and the stunning view of the Indian Ocean make it a must-see for any visitor to Mombasa.
Nairobi National Park
Welcome to Nairobi National Park, home to an array of wildlife and stunning scenery. This national park is easy to get to and perfect for a African safari experience that is both accessible and unique. With plenty of game viewing opportunities, visitors can explore the area’s varied landscapes and learn about its history while enjoying the natural beauty of Kenya. The Nairobi National Park is probably one of the best places to visit in Kenya.
National Museum
Kenya’s amazing National Museum is situated on a sprawling and leafy grounds just outside of the city centre. The museum has a great selection of artefacts from all over Kenya, illustrating the country’s rich cultural history. From traditional weapons to ancient pottery and sculptures, the museum’s eclectic collection is sure to entice any curious traveller.
The museum also houses an impressive contemporary art gallery, with pieces from upcoming and established Kenyan artists. There are regular exhibitions showcasing new works, and visitors can even purchase some of the art on display.
When you’re done exploring the museum, be sure to head out into the grounds. Here, you’ll find a variety of plants and trees, as well as a number of walking trails. The grounds are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic lunch, and the views of Nairobi city in the distance are simply stunning.
Just outside the museum, there is a little cafe which serves delicious Kenyan coffee and sweet treats. This is the perfect place to sit and relax after a long day of sight-seeing. The National Museum of Kenya is a must-see for anyone visiting the country.
Karen Blixen’s House & Museum
If you love Out of Africa, you’ll love this museum in the farmhouse where Karen Blixen lived between 1914 and 1931. The museum features immersive exhibits that let you explore the life of this celebrated author.
Giraffe Centre
Come explore the amazing conservation centre that houses the highly endangered Rothschild’s giraffe. You can enjoy interesting activities while learning about this magnificent animal, all while helping to protect it.
Lamu Museum
The Lamu Museum is the second-best museum in Kenya and it’s housed in a grand Swahili warehouse on the waterfront. The collection spans over two centuries, and includes artifacts from both local and international history.
Galana River
The Galana River courses through the center of the park, making its way to the deep blue waters of Lake Serena. This is one of the most popular areas in the park, with visitors able to run, walk, and even salmon swim in its crystalline waters.
Haller Park
Haller Park is a great place to escape the crowds and get active in nature. The pet tortoises, feed giraffes, and monkeys are all waiting to play with you.
When to go to Kenya
Kenya’s peak season is January-February, when the weather is dry and hot and flamingoes flock to Kenya’s Rift Valley lakes. During the shoulder season (June-October), prices are lower and accommodation is more affordable. The annual migrations happen during the wet season, too, which makes Kenya safaris during the dry season the best way to see wildlife.
March to May are generally wetter, but it doesn’t rain all day. The vegetation is lush during these months, making for great deals on accommodation.
What to pack for Kenya
Bring your soft, flexible duffel bag with you on your Kenyan adventure! With so many different weather conditions to take in, you’ll be thankful for the added flexibility.
Kenya food & drink
Kenya is a land of natural beauty and delicious food, perfect for a relaxing afternoon or evening out. There are plenty of homegrown favorites like mango, pineapple, and passion fruit, as well as delicious fruit juices that go great with Tusker beer or G&Ts. Coffee here is generally weak and not very flavorful, so we recommend opting for chai instead. Finally, if you’re looking for something sweet after dinner on your Kenya safaris, try indulging in some freshly made hot chocolate.
What souvenirs to buy in Kenya?
Looking for a memorable gift? Why not consider handmade wooden sculptures of some of Kenya’s most iconic animals? You’ll be sure to find them all over the country, no matter where you go. Whether you’re a fan of lions, giraffes, or zebras, these sculptures are a great way to show your appreciation for this beautiful country.
Is Kenya safe for tourists?
Don’t forget to exercise caution when traveling to Kenya. There are many dangerous things happening in the country, such as crime, terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping. Criminal incidents against tourists occur frequently. Some areas are more risky than others, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Be sure to check local media for breaking events and be prepared to make quick changes to your travel plans if necessary.
It is a good idea to hire a tour guide company in Kenya, since the guide can keep you out of the areas with usual criminal activities.
