It’s one of Africa’s most popular destinations for international travellers seeking sun, sand and safaris. Kenya’s “hakuna matata” culture means you won’t always get everywhere on time, but you’ll definitely enjoy the journey.
Witness the Masai Mara’s Great Migration of more than a million wildebeest, a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife wonder that will make your heart leap like the park’s namesake warriors. This is also a good place to spot some of Africa’s other majestic beasts: lions, cheetahs, hippos, elephants and zebra – all call the savannah home. Evening sunsets over acacia trees are seemingly cliché in their perfection (especially when enjoyed from the luxury of a tented camp), and are best savoured with a glass of sparkling wine or a cold Tusker beer in hand.
If you’re more into birding, head to Lake Nakuru – this large Rift Valley soda lake is synonymous with its flocks of pink flamingos. Thousands of these skinny-legged birds line the shores, thanks to the lake’s high algae content.
The most active of travellers might want to use their time in Kenya to prepare for a trek up neighbouring Tanzania’s famous Mt. Kilimanjaro. Try summiting Mt. Kenya first – this high-altitude climb is challenging in its own right, meaning you’ll be better acclimatised to avoid altitude sickness when you do tackle Africa’s highest mountain.
Or, if you’d rather relax, ride the rails from Nairobi to Mombasa, or catch a short flight. Spend a few days soaking up the Swahili coast, sampling the seafood or snorkelling from a traditional dhow. There are plenty of islands to explore along the east coast as well, including Lamu and Manda islands.
Best for:
Active Travellers; Arts + Culture Lovers; Backpackers/Budget Travellers; Beach Bums; Couples/Honeymooners; Eco Travellers; Families; Luxury Travellers; Nature Lovers; Voluntourists
