Kenya

Kenya: general info for travelers

Kenya is a country located in East Africa, bordered by Tanzania to the south, Somalia to the east, South Sudan to the northwest, Uganda to the west, and Ethiopia to the north. It has a population of over 50 million people and its capital and largest city is Nairobi.
Kenya is known for its diverse wildlife and natural habitats, such as the Maasai Mara game reserve, Mount Kenya, and Lake Victoria. The country is also home to various indigenous cultures, with the Maasai people being one of the most well-known.
Tourism is an important industry in Kenya, with activities such as wildlife safaris, beach vacations along the Indian Ocean coastline, and cultural experiences being popular among visitors. Additionally, Kenya is also one of the world's leading exporters of tea and coffee.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Kenya, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Kenya: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main places to visit in Kenya and a brief description of each: 1. Masai Mara National Reserve - This is probably the most famous tourist destination in Kenya. It is known for its great wildebeest migration, which attracts thousands of visitors annually. The wildlife here includes lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and other big cats.
2. Lake Nakuru National Park – It is located in the Great Rift Valley and is considered one of Kenya's premium attractions. The park is a sanctuary for both black and white rhinos, Rothschild giraffes, and flamingos, among other animals.
3. Amboseli National Park - Known for its superb views of Mount Kilimanjaro (the highest peak in Africa), Amboseli National Park is home to a diverse wildlife population, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, and more.
4. Mombasa - This coastal city offers visitors a chance to relax and unwind near the Indian Ocean. Mombasa boasts several beaches, including Bamburi, Diani, and Nyali.
5. Hell's Gate National Park – Scenic beauty and geothermal activity, travelers will find an abundance of wildlife ranging from zebras, gazelles, Kongoni, and hartebeest to baboons and buffalos, in addition to over 100 species of birds.
6. Samburu National Reserve - This reserve is located in the Northern part of Kenya. It houses a variety of wildlife, including the Samburu special five, which includes the lesser kudu, beisa oryx, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, and Grevy's zebra.
7. Tsavo West National Park - It is one of the world's largest wildlife parks and is famous for its diverse wildlife, which includes buffalo, elephants, leopards, and lions. Tsavo West National Park is also known for its stunning views of the Chyulu Hills and Mount Kilimanjaro.
I hope this helps you plan a great trip to Kenya!
There is more to see and do in Kenya: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Kenya: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Kenya, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Kenya experiences two types of seasons: dry and wet seasons. The dry season runs from June to October and the wet season from November to May. However, this can vary by region.
In general, the best time to visit Kenya is during the dry season which corresponds with the Great Migration in the Masai Mara, which usually occurs between July and October. The weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for wildlife viewing, safaris, and beach holidays on the Kenyan coast.
If you're interested in bird-watching, visiting game reserves, and avoiding the crowds, the wet seasons can be a great time to visit, particularly during the shorter 'shoulder' seasons (November to December or March to May) when the rainy season is less intense. During these times there may still be occasional showers, but there are fewer tourists, and you'll enjoy lower prices on accommodation and tour packages. Just keep in mind that some parks and reserves may become inaccessible during the rainy season due to flooding.

Kenya: activities and what to do

Kenya offers a wide range of activities and sports to do on holiday. Here are some popular ones: 1. Safaris: Kenya is famous for its wildlife and national parks, and going on a safari is a must-do activity for any visitor. You can take a game drive, go on a walking safari, or even take a hot air balloon ride.
2. Beaches: Kenya has a beautiful coastline with white sandy beaches and clear blue water. You can relax on the beach, go swimming, or try water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing.
3. Hiking and climbing: Kenya has several mountains and hills that offer great hiking and climbing opportunities. Mount Kenya is the highest peak in the country and is a popular destination for climbers.
4. Cultural experiences: Kenya is home to several indigenous communities that have preserved their traditional way of life. You can visit Maasai villages, learn about their culture and traditions, and even join them in their dance and song performances.
5. Golfing: Kenya has several golf courses, some of which are set amidst stunning landscapes. You can enjoy a game of golf while taking in the beautiful views around you.
6. Water sports: Kenyan beaches offer opportunities to indulge in various water sports such as kayaking, wind-surfing, water-skiing, kite-surfing, and kite-boarding.
7. Cycling Safaris: Kenya's famous cycling trails offer a thrilling adventure for cycling enthusiasts. These are just some of the popular activities and sports to do on holiday in Kenya, and there are many more to explore.

Kenya: few words on history and culture

Kenya is a country in East Africa with a rich history and diverse culture. The earliest known inhabitants of Kenya were hunter-gatherer tribes, followed by Bantu-speaking farmers who migrated to the region around 2000 years ago. The Swahili culture, which blends African, Arab, and Indian influences, emerged along the coast of Kenya around the 7th century.
Kenya was colonized by the British in the late 19th century, and gained independence in 1963. Since then, the country has experienced a series of political and social changes, including the adoption of a new constitution in 2010.
Kenya is a multi-ethnic country with more than 70 different ethnic groups, each with their own distinct customs and traditions. The country's official languages are English and Swahili, with many other languages also spoken throughout the country.
Kenyan culture is known for its music, dance, and art, which often reflect the country's traditional beliefs and values. Kenyans also place great importance on family and community, and are known for their hospitality and welcoming nature. Wildlife and nature are also important aspects of Kenyan culture, with many national parks and game reserves showcasing the country's unique wildlife and natural beauty.

Kenya: how to move around on holiday

There are several means of transport that you can use to reach and visit Kenya. The most common ways include: 1. Flight: Kenya has several international airports that receive flights from different parts of the world. The main airport is the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. Other airports include Moi International Airport in Mombasa and Eldoret International Airport.
2. Train: You can travel to Kenya by train from nearby countries such as Uganda and Tanzania. The trains offer a comfortable and scenic experience.
3. Road: You can also access Kenya by road from neighboring countries. Several international bus companies offer services from Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda. You can also drive to Kenya from these countries.
Once in Kenya, the most convenient means of transport for visiting different locations is by road. You can hire a car, use public transport such as minibusses commonly known as matatus, or hire a private driver. Domestic flights are also available for traveling to different regions of the country. To hire a car to visit Kenya, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Kenya: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Kenya with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the main typical foods of Kenya along with their descriptions: 1. Ugali: This is a staple food in Kenya made from maize flour and water. It has a dough-like texture and is usually served with vegetables, meat or stew. It is often eaten with bare hands.
2. Nyama Choma: This is Kenya's version of grilled meat, often eaten with ugali and kachumbari (a tomato and onion salad). It is usually made from goat, beef, or chicken.
3. Irio: This is a traditional food made from mashed potatoes, peas, corn, and sometimes onions and other vegetables. It is often served with meat stew or beans.
4. Pilau: Pilau is spiced rice dish that is often made with meat or vegetables. It is slowly cooked with spices such as cumin, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, giving it a unique flavor.
5. Chapati: This is a type of Indian-style flatbread that is popular in Kenya. It is made from a mixture of flour, water, and oil, and is usually served with stew, vegetables, or beans.
6. Mandazi: This is a type of sweet bread that is deep-fried and often served with tea or coffee. It is made from flour, sugar, coconut milk, and various spices like cardamom and cloves.
These are just a few of the many typical foods you can find in Kenya, but they are some of the most popular and well-known dishes.

Kenya: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Kenya can be an expensive country for tourists depending on the type of activities you choose and the level of comfort you are looking for. Nairobi, the capital city, can be quite pricey compared to other towns. National parks and game reserves also have varying prices depending on their location and amenities. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly options available, such as staying in hostels or budget hotels, taking public transportation, and eating at local eateries. It's also worth noting that during peak seasons or special events, prices tend to go up.

Kenya: where to find accodation

There are several ways to look for accommodation in Kenya. Here are a few options: 1. Online booking websites such as Booking.com, Airbnb, and Expedia allow you to search for and book accommodations in Kenya.
2. Local travel agencies also offer accommodation booking services. Tour operators like Kenya Wildlife Safaris and Getaway Africa can help you book accommodation in Kenya.
3. Government tourism websites like the Kenya Tourism Board can provide a list of accredited hotels, lodges, and campsites that meet specific standards.
4. Some accommodations in Kenya like national park lodges or game reserves can only be booked through their specific websites.
5. Online forums, travel blogs, and social media groups can also provide essential advice and recommendations on where to look for accommodation in Kenya. Remember to always read reviews and do some research on the accommodation you’re interested in before booking to ensure its location, amenities, and services meet your needs.
You can check hotel prices in Kenya here:
Booking.com

Kenya: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Kenya Tourism Board, the country received around 2 million international tourist arrivals in 2019. The most popular time for tourists to visit Kenya is during the dry season, which runs from January to March and from July to October. During these peak months, popular attractions and parks such as Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Lake Nakuru National Parks tend to be crowded. It is advisable to plan ahead and make reservations in advance, especially during these periods, to avoid disappointment.
Kenya is generally considered a safe country for tourists, but like any other country, there are certain areas where caution is advised. Areas along the Somali and South Sudanese borders, as well as parts of Nairobi such as Eastleigh and Kibera, should be avoided due to the potential for terrorism and crime. It is also advisable to avoid traveling at night, and to keep your valuables close in crowded public places. It is recommended to consult with local travel agencies or your embassy for the most up-to-date safety information and to plan your itinerary accordingly.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Kenya on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Kenya: events for tourists

Kenya is a vibrant country with many interesting events throughout the year. Here are some of the most popular events that attract tourists: 1. Safari Rally - This is the biggest motorsport event in Kenya, held annually in Nairobi and attracts thousands of local and international visitors.
2. Lamu Cultural Festival - This is an annual event that takes place in Lamu Island where visitors can experience the rich Swahili culture and traditions through music, dancing, and food.
3. Wildebeest Migration - This is one of the most incredible natural occurrences in the world, where millions of wildebeest migrate from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.
4. Lake Turkana Festival - This festival celebrates the culture of the Turkana people, including music, dance, and traditional attire.
5. Maralal Camel Derby - This is a unique event that celebrates the culture of the Samburu people, where visitors can enjoy camel races and cultural performances.
These are just a few of the many interesting events that take place in Kenya throughout the year, making it a great destination for tourists.

Kenya: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Kenya, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a suggested two-week itinerary for a typical tourist in Kenya: Day 1-2: Nairobi - Upon arrival, spend a day or two exploring Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. Visit the Nairobi National Museum, the Giraffe Centre, and the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage.
Day 3-4: Amboseli National Park - Head to Amboseli National Park, known for its large herds of elephants and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Go on a game drive to see the wildlife, and take a guided nature walk.
Day 5-6: Maasai Mara National Reserve - Drive to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, one of the most famous wildlife reserves in Africa. Witness the annual wildebeest migration (if timing allows), go on a balloon safari, or visit a Maasai village.
Day 7-8: Lake Nakuru National Park - Take a drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, home to thousands of pink flamingos, rhinos, and other wildlife. Go on a game drive to see the wildlife and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Day 9-10: Naivasha - Visit Naivasha, a freshwater lake surrounded by lush forests and home to hippopotamuses and fish eagles. Take a boat trip on the lake, visit Hell's Gate National Park, or go rock climbing.
Day 11-12: Lamu - Fly to the island of Lamu, one of the oldest Swahili settlements in East Africa. Explore the narrow streets and alleys of Lamu Town, swim in the warm Indian Ocean waters, and visit the Takwa ruins.
Day 13-14: Diani Beach - Finish off your trip with a visit to Diani Beach, a popular seaside resort on the south coast of Kenya. Relax on the white sandy beaches, swim in the ocean, and go snorkeling or diving to see the coral reefs.
This itinerary can be customized based on your interests and preferences. Also, do remember that while traveling in Kenya, it is important to ensure that you take all safety precautions and follow the climate's guidelines especially when you visit national parks.

Kenya: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Kenya described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Aberdare National Park is a protected area in central Kenya, situated east of the East African Rift Valley. It covers an area of about 766 square kilometers and it is known for its stunning landscapes... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aberdare National Park
- Amboseli National Park is located in the Kajiado County of Kenya. It is known for its large herds of free-ranging African elephants, iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and diverse wildlife including l... CONTINUE here for a trip to Amboseli National Park
- Certainly! Bungoma is a town located in western Kenya, close to the border with Uganda. It is the capital of Bungoma County, one of the 47 counties in Kenya. The town has a population of approximately... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bungoma
- Diani Beach is a beautiful coastal town located in the south coast of Mombasa, Kenya. It's famous for its sparkling white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and natural coral reefs. Diani Beach is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Diani Beach
- Eldoret is a rapidly growing city located in the western part of Kenya. It is the fifth-largest city in the country with a population of approximately 500,000 people and is the capital of the Uasin Gi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Eldoret
- Garissa is a town located in the northeastern region of Kenya, about 350 kilometers from the capital city of Nairobi. It is the capital of Garissa County and it is situated on the banks of the Tana Ri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Garissa
- Hell's Gate National Park is a protected area located in Kenya, about 90 kilometers northwest of Nairobi. The park is relatively small, covering an area of about 68.25 square kilometers, and it is kno... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hell's Gate National Park
- Isiolo is a town located in the eastern part of Kenya, approximately 285 kilometers from Nairobi. It is the capital of Isiolo County and lies at the foot of Mount Kenya on the northern bank of the Ewa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isiolo
- Kakamega Forest is a tropical rainforest located in the western part of Kenya, near the town of Kakamega. It is the only remaining large rainforest in Kenya and is home to many species of plants and a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kakamega Forest
- Kakamega is a town located in western Kenya, and it is the headquarters of Kakamega County. It is situated approximately 50 kilometers north of Kisumu City and 415 kilometers from Nairobi, the capital... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kakamega
- Kisii is a town located in the southwestern region of Kenya, near the Tanzanian border. It is the largest urban center in the Kisii County and serves as an important commercial hub for the surrounding... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kisii
- Kisumu is a city located on the shores of Lake Victoria, in western Kenya. It is the third-largest city in the country after Nairobi and Mombasa, with a population of approximately 400,000 people. Kis... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kisumu
- Kitale is a town located in the Rift Valley Province of Kenya, situated at an elevation of around 1,900 meters (6,200 feet) above sea level. It's known for its agricultural productivity, with fe... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kitale
- Lake Baringo is a freshwater lake located in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya. It covers an area of approximately 130 square kilometers and has a maximum depth of 10 meters. The lake is known for its ab... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lake Baringo
- Lake Elementaita is a saltwater lake located in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya, approximately 120 kilometers northwest of Nairobi. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Kenya Lake ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lake Elementaita
- Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake located in the Great Rift Valley region of Kenya, about 90 kilometers from Nairobi. It has a surface area of approximately 139 square kilometers. The lake is surroun... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lake Naivasha
- Lake Turkana is a saline lake located in the Kenyan Rift Valley, in northern Kenya. It is the world's largest desert lake, measuring about 290 kilometers long and 30 kilometers wide. The lake is also ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lake Turkana
- Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa and the second-largest freshwater lake in the world, located in Eastern Africa. It is bordered by Tanzania to the south, Uganda to the west, and Kenya to th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lake Victoria
- Lamu Island is a small island located off the coast of Kenya, near the border with Somalia. It is part of the Lamu Archipelago and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The island is known for its rich his... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lamu Island
- Lamu is a small island off the northeastern coast of Kenya. It is one of the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlements in East Africa and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The isla... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lamu
- Malindi is a coastal town located in the Kilifi County of Kenya, East Africa. It is situated approximately 120 km northeast of Mombasa and 476 km southeast of Nairobi. Malindi is known for its beautif... CONTINUE here for a trip to Malindi
- Mandera is a town located in the northeastern part of Kenya, near the border with Somalia and Ethiopia. It has a population of around 60,000 people and is the capital of the Mandera County. The town i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mandera
- Marsabit is a town in the Marsabit County of Kenya, located in the northern region of the country. It is situated on the eastern slopes of an extinct volcano called Mount Marsabit, from which the town... CONTINUE here for a trip to Marsabit
- Masai Mara National Reserve is a wildlife refuge located in the southwestern region of Kenya, contiguous with the Tanzanian border. It is known for its vast savannah grasslands, home to a wide variety... CONTINUE here for a trip to Masai Mara National Reserve
- Meru is a town located in the eastern region of Kenya. It is the largest town in the Meru County and serves as the county’s administrative capital. The town is situated at the foothills of Mount Kenya... CONTINUE here for a trip to Meru
- Meru National Park is located in northern Kenya, covering an area of 870 square kilometers. It's known for its diverse wildlife including big cats such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas, as wel... CONTINUE here for a trip to Meru National Park
- Mombasa is a city on the southeast coast of Kenya, along the Indian Ocean. It is the country's second-largest city after Nairobi and has a population of around 1.2 million people. Mombasa is a popular... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mombasa
- Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya and the second-highest in Africa, after Kilimanjaro. It is a volcanic mountain range located in central Kenya, about 150 km north-northeast of Nairobi. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mount Kenya
- Mtwapa is a coastal town located in the Kilifi County of Kenya, about 16 kilometers north of Mombasa. It has a population of around 70,000 people and is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mtwapa
- Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya, located in East Africa. It is the largest city in the country and serves as the economic, political, and cultural hub of Kenya. Nairobi has a population of approx... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nairobi
- Naivasha is a town located in Nakuru County, Kenya, approximately 90 kilometers northwest of Nairobi. It sits on the shore of Lake Naivasha, which is a freshwater lake and serves as a popular tourist ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Naivasha
- Nakuru is a city located in the Rift Valley region of Kenya. It is the fourth-largest urban center in Kenya, with a population of approximately 570,000 as per census conducted in 2019. The city is kno... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nakuru
- Nanyuki is a market town in the Laikipia County in Kenya, East Africa. It is situated just south of the Equator and is located on the western slopes of Mount Kenya. Nanyuki is the gateway to numerous ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nanyuki
- Nyahururu is a town located in central Kenya, about 190 km northwest of Nairobi. It is the headquarters of Laikipia County and has a population of approximately 50,000 people. The town is situated in ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nyahururu
- Nyeri is a town located in central Kenya, about 150 kilometers north of Nairobi. It is the largest town in Nyeri County and serves as the administrative center of the county. Nyeri is known for its lu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nyeri
- Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park is a small national park located in the Central Province of Kenya, about 85 km east of Nairobi. It covers an area of 20.7 square kilometers and is named after the Mt. Ol D... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a private wildlife conservancy situated in Kenya, East Africa. It covers over 90,000 acres of land and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the "Big Five" - eleph... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ol Pejeta Conservancy
- Samburu National Reserve is a wildlife reserve situated on the banks of the Ewaso Ng'iro river in Samburu County, Kenya. It covers an area of 165 square kilometers and is home to a variety of wildlife... CONTINUE here for a trip to Samburu National Reserve
- Shimba Hills National Reserve is a protected area located in Kwale County, Kenya, just 33 km south of Mombasa. It covers an area of 238 sq km and consists of a hilly landscape, forested areas, and gra... CONTINUE here for a trip to Shimba Hills National Reserve
- Shimoni is a small fishing village located on the southeastern coast of Kenya, near the border with Tanzania. It is situated on the Indian Ocean and is known for its beautiful coral reefs and diverse ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Shimoni
- Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is a private game reserve located in the Taita-Taveta County of Kenya. It covers an area of 28,000 acres and is home to a diverse range of wildlife such as elephants, li... CONTINUE here for a trip to Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
- Thika is a fast-growing industrial town located in the Kiambu County of Kenya. It is situated approximately 40 kilometers east of Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya and it is a major transportation hu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Thika
- Tsavo National Park is a vast wildlife reserve located in Kenya, East Africa. It was established in 1948 and covers an area of over 22,000 square kilometers, making it one of the largest national park... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tsavo National Park
- Voi is a town located in southeastern Kenya, in the Taita-Taveta County. It is situated in the southern foothills of the Taita Hills, and it serves as a gateway to Tsavo East and Tsavo West National P... CONTINUE here for a trip to Voi
- Wajir is a town situated in the northeastern region of Kenya. It is the capital of Wajir County and has an approximate population of 54,000 people. The town is situated on the arid land, with a hot, d... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wajir
- Watamu is a small coastal town located in the Kilifi County of Kenya, East Africa. It is famous for its magnificent beaches and turquoise blue waters of the Indian Ocean. The area is also home to Wata... CONTINUE here for a trip to Watamu
- Webuye is a town located in Bungoma County, Kenya. It has a population of approximately 60,000 people. The town is known for its agricultural activities, including sugarcane, maize, and livestock farm... CONTINUE here for a trip to Webuye


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