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Kenya stands out as one of Africa’s most diverse travel destinations. While its top attraction is the incredible safari experience in renowned parks like the Masai Mara National Reserve, this East African gem offers so much more. Visitors can unwind on pristine beaches, explore vibrant offshore reefs, and discover ancient Swahili settlements along the Indian Ocean coast.
For nature lovers, Kenya also provides a chance to admire the majestic snow-capped peaks of the two Africa’s tallest mountains—one of which, Mount Kilimanjaro, is just over the border in Tanzania. With its warm hospitality, stunning landscapes, and wide range of activities, Kenya truly delivers everything you’d want from a tropical African getaway. Here’s a handpicked list of the 12 best things to do in Kenya.
There are many reasons to tour Nairobi National Park, but its most captivating feature is its prime location right next to Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling capital.
Often called “The World’s Only Wildlife Capital,” this unique park offers easy access to nature, with a surprising array of wildlife despite its compact size. It’s a haven for black rhinos, lions, and hyenas, as well as a variety of other mammals and around 400 bird species. With so much to see, you might find yourself unsure of where to focus your attention. But amidst the vibrant noise of Nairobi’s streets, this park provides a peaceful escape into nature’s serenity.
The Masai Mara National Reserve is Kenya’s top safari hotspot. Few places offer such a high chance of spotting lions, leopards, cheetahs, and other predators.
Elephants and buffaloes are frequently seen, and with a bit of luck, visitors might catch a rare glimpse of a black rhino, completing the Big Five. Wildlife sightings are fantastic year-round, but they peak from July to October, when millions of wildebeest, antelope and zebra – make their dramatic migration from Tanzania. Witnessing these wildebeest cross the Mara River in massive herds is truly one of Kenya’s most remarkable natural spectacles.
Amboseli National Park is one of Kenya’s most beloved attractions, famous for its large elephant herds often seen wading through the swamps. Visitors can also spot buffalo, giraffes, hippos, and wildebeest, with the chance of encountering big cats as well.
What truly sets Amboseli apart is the breathtaking view of Mount Kilima njaro, the world’s highest freestanding mountain, rising 5,000 meters (3 miles) above the plains. One of Kenya’s most awe-inspiring sights is watching Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak emerge from the clouds, an incredible spectacle that typically happens at dawn or dusk.
Diani Beach stretches for 11 miles (17 kilometers) along Kenya’s south coast, offering a slice of tropical paradise. With its soft, white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it’s a true dream destination. Palm trees sway in the breeze, and the coral reef ensures calm waters perfect for relaxation. Located just 32 km (20 miles) south of Mombasa, Diani is the ideal beach escape. Upscale resorts provide a touch of luxury, while the surrounding forests are home to playful monkeys. It’s also an excellent base for a safari to the hidden gem of Shimba Hills National Reserve.
One of the most captivating safari experiences in Kenya is soaring above the iconic Masai Mara in a hot-air balloon. Rising gently with each burst of flame, you’ll glide over the vast savanna, dotted with flat-topped acacia trees, while witnessing wildebeest migrating, lions stalking, or a solitary black rhino moving through the brush.
From this tranquil yet thrilling vantage point, you’ll see elephant-shaped shadows cast perfectly by the setting sun, a sight that’s nothing short of mesmerizing. A hot-air balloon safari in Kenya offers a rare blend of serenity and adventure, creating memories that last a lifetime.
The stunning lakes of Kenya’s Rift Valley, located northwest of Nairobi, are a birdwatcher’s paradise. At times, over a million flamingos flock to Lakes Nakuru, Bogoria, and Elementaita, turning the waters a soft pink. Even if the flamingos aren’t around, you’ll still encounter a dazzling variety of tropical birds, from majestic pelicans and storks to vibrant lovebirds and bee-eaters.
The Laikipia Plateau offers a unique safari experience, set apart from other destinations by its network of private reserves and community conservancies.
Together, these form Kenya’s second-largest protected area. Most lodges here offer all-inclusive stays, with activities ranging from traditional game drives to night safaris, bush walks, horseback rides, and even camelback safaris. The wildlife viewing is exceptional, featuring the Big Five and rare species like the African wild dog. Laikipia is also a crucial refuge for the distinctively patterned Grevy’s zebra and the elegant reticulated giraffe.
Hell’s Gate National Park, shaped by the powerful forces of the Great Rift Valley, offers a unique opportunity to explore its volcanic landscape on foot or by bike—no guide required. The park is teeming with wildlife, including buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope. Dominating the skyline is Mount Longonot, a dormant volcano with a dramatic crater that last erupted in the 1860s. A challenging 90-minute hike takes you from the base to the rim, rewarding you with stunning views.
Kenya is home to Africa’s second-highest mountain, Mount Kenya, an extinct volcano with snow-capped peaks that reach 5,199 meters (17,057 feet) and straddle the equator. While the multi-day climb to the snowline isn’t for everyone, it’s a top item on many adventurers’ Kenya bucket lists.
The trek takes you through lush montane forests, teeming with elephants and monkeys, before reaching the chilly Afro-alpine moorland, where giant lobelias create a surreal landscape. The summit, Point Lenana, sits at 4,985 meters (16,355 feet), offering stunning views. If you’re short on time, a day hike from the Met Station at Naro Moru Gate gives you a taste of the unique Afro-alpine moorland.
Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline is stunning from any angle, but the most romantic way to take it all in is aboard a traditional dhow. These wooden sailing boats, a staple of the Swahili coast for centuries, remain deeply rooted in the region’s culture. Whether setting sail from the historic island of Lamu, home to Kenya’s oldest continuously inhabited town, from the bustling shores of Mombasa, or from the chic resort town of Diani Beach, these sail-powered journeys glide past pristine beaches, secluded coral islands, and vibrant reefs full of marine life.
Visitors to Samburu National Reserve, one of Kenya’s top wildlife destinations, are in for an unforgettable experience. While many are familiar with the “Big Five,” the reserve offers something even more unique—the Samburu Special Five.
This term refers to five distinctive species found only in this region: the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, beisa oryx, gerenuk, and Somali ostrich. These animals are exclusively found north of the equator, making the experience even more thrilling.
In addition to these rarities, Samburu is renowned for its impressive sightings of big cats and elephants. Travelers can also visit a traditional village to immerse themselves in the local culture, providing a deeper connection to the area. It’s truly one of Kenya’s most memorable experiences.
While Kenya’s stunning wildlife draws most visitors, many find their most memorable experiences come from engaging with the local communities.
Cultural encounters in the Masai Mara, in particular, leave a lasting impression. The Maasai people, native to East Africa, are known for their vibrant clothing and intricate beaded jewelry. Having maintained their traditional lifestyle, they remain one of the few African tribes that still practice pastoralism and hunting. Primarily found in Kenya and northern Tanzania, the Maasai speak the “Maa” language and are a key part of the region’s cultural fabric.
A cultural visit offers a rich, authentic opportunity to connect with the Maasai, gaining a deeper understanding of their way of life and their bond with the land.
Many Maasai work at local camps and lodges, including those operated by Asilia Africa, where community members often serve as staff and guides. These visits can take you to Maasai villages, where you can meet locals, learn about their traditions, and immerse yourself in their unique culture.
The island town of Lamu is a beloved destination for many travelers in East Africa. Founded in medieval times, it flourished in the 17th and 18th centuries as a key trading port and hub for Swahili art and scholarship. Today, Lamu remains relatively untouched by mainstream tourism, offering a more secluded experience. Despite its quiet pace, the narrow, historic alleys of the old town continue to showcase a rich Swahili cultural and architectural heritage that captivates visitors.
We’re here to answer all your questions about the must-see highlights, accommodation options, and travel routes!
Since 2016, Greenway Nature Tours Africa has been offering 4×4 vehicle rentals, safari packages with accommodations, and guided tours for both individual and group travelers throughout East Africa, covering countries such as Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania.
The ideal time to visit Kenya is during the dry seasons, which run from June to September and December to February. These months provide the best weather for wildlife safaris and gorilla trekking, with less rainfall, making travel more comfortable and enjoyable.
Since 2016 Greenway Nature Tours Africa have been offering 4×4 car hire, safari itineraries with accommodation and guided tours for group and the independent traveler in East African countries of Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania.
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