Discover the top 10 best things to do in Kenya, including wildlife safaris, visiting the Maasai Mara National Reserve, exploring stunning beaches, climbing Mount Kenya, experiencing the local culture, and trying delicious Kenyan cuisine. Read on for more insights and tips to plan your ultimate Kenyan adventure.
10 Best Things to Do in Kenya
Kenya is a country in East Africa boasting diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich culture. It is a popular tourist destination that offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are my top 10 best things to do in Kenya.
#1 Go on a Safari (One of the Best Things to Do in Kenya)
Kenya is home to some of the most famous safari destinations in the world, and there are plenty of options. While the Masai Mara National Reserve is undoubtedly the most popular, other great reserves, such as Amboseli, Tsavo, and Samburu, offer unique wildlife sightings and experiences. Visitors can expect to see the Big Five animals, including lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos.
#2 Visit the Maasai Mara National Reserve
The Maasai Mara is a vast wilderness area covering over 1,500 square kilometers. In addition to the great migration, visitors can witness other natural wonders, such as the Mara River crossings, where herds of wildebeest and zebras brave the crocodile-infested waters. The reserve is also home to the Maasai people, who have lived there for centuries and maintain their traditional way of life.
The reserve is also home to the Big Five animals and offers a great opportunity to spot them in their natural habitat.
#3 Explore the Beaches
Kenya’s coastline is dotted with stunning beaches that offer a wide range of activities. Visitors can go snorkeling, scuba diving, kite surfing, deep-sea fishing, or relaxing on the beach. In addition to Diani Beach, other popular beach destinations in Kenya include Watamu, Malindi, and Lamu Island.
Madaraka Express Train is one of the best means of transport from Nairobi to Mombasa and other coastal destinations. If you plan a trip to the beaches, here’s how to book Madaraka Express train tickets.
#4 Climb Mount Kenya
Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya and the second-highest in Africa after Kilimanjaro. Climbing to the summit of Mount Kenya is a challenging but rewarding experience that requires good fitness and some mountaineering experience. Visitors can choose from several routes, each offering unique views and challenges.
#5 Visit Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake Nakuru National Park is a small but incredibly diverse park with great birdwatching and wildlife sightseeing opportunities. In addition to the flamingos and pelicans, visitors can see large herds of buffalo, giraffes, and zebras. The park is also one of the best places in Kenya to see the endangered black and white rhinos.
#6 Experience the Culture
Kenya is a diverse country with over 40 different ethnic groups, each with its own unique culture and traditions. Visitors can learn about the Maasai people’s customs, dress, and livestock management or witness the local people’s elaborate traditional dances and ceremonies.
The Bomas of Kenya offers an excellent opportunity to experience Kenya’s cultural diversity in one place. It will also allow you to experience the local music, dance, and food.
#7 Explore the Great Rift Valley
The Great Rift Valley is a massive geological formation that runs through East Africa. In addition to the stunning lakes and hot springs, visitors can see some of the most impressive wildlife in the region, including baboons, monkeys, and birds of prey. The valley also offers some of the most spectacular landscapes in Kenya, with towering cliffs, deep gorges, and sweeping plains.
#8 Visit Nairobi City
Nairobi is Kenya’s capital city and the cultural and economic hub of East Africa. In addition to the wildlife parks and sanctuaries, visitors can explore the city’s museums, galleries, and markets. The city also offers various accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses and hostels.
The Nairobi National Park, the Giraffe Centre, and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust are some of the popular attractions.
- See Also: 💡 Places To Visit and Things to Do in Nairobi.
#9 Go on a Hot Air Balloon Safari
A hot air balloon safari is a unique way to experience Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes from above. Visitors can see the animals from a different perspective and enjoy a spectacular sunrise or sunset. Most balloon safaris include a champagne breakfast or dinner. The Masai Mara National Reserve offers hot air balloon safaris.
#10 Try the Local Food
Kenyan cuisine is a delicious blend of different cultures and flavors, reflecting the country’s diverse history and influences. Visitors should make a point of trying some of the local delicacies, such as Nyama Choma (grilled meat), Ugali (a staple made from maize flour), and Pilau (spiced rice).
Visitors can also enjoy street food, such as Mandazi (sweet fried dough), Samosas (savory fried pastries), and Kebabs. To taste Kenyan cuisine, visitors can head to local restaurants and markets or join a cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes.
FAQs on What to Do in Kenya
Get answers to the top 10 frequently asked questions about the 10 Best Things To Do in Kenya guide, covering topics such as wildlife safaris, cultural experiences, local cuisine, and more. Discover all you need to know to plan your unforgettable trip.
1. Can I see the Great Migration in Kenya?
Yes, the Great Migration can be witnessed in Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve from July to October.
2. What is the best time to visit Kenya?
The best time to visit Kenya is during the dry season, from June to October and January to February, when wildlife sightings peak.
3. Can I climb Mount Kenya without a guide?
No, climbing Mount Kenya requires a guide and porters to ensure safety and navigation on the mountain.
4. Is it safe to visit Kenya?
Kenya is generally a safe destination for tourists, but visitors should take precautions, such as avoiding areas with political unrest and practicing good safety habits.
5. How do I book a safari in Kenya?
Visitors can book a safari in Kenya through tour operators, travel agencies, or directly with national parks and reserves.
6. What is the currency used in Kenya?
The currency used in Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling (KES).
7. Are there any cultural taboos I should know about in Kenya?
Yes, visitors should respect Kenyan culture, such as dressing modestly in public and asking for permission before taking photos of people.
8. Can I go on a hot air balloon safari in Kenya?
Yes, hot air balloon safaris are available in Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve and other wildlife parks.
9. Is it possible to visit multiple destinations in Kenya on one trip?
Yes, visitors can easily combine different destinations in Kenya, such as a wildlife safari in the Maasai Mara with a beach vacation in Mombasa or Lamu Island.
In Summary
Kenya is a country that offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. From going on a safari to experiencing the local culture and trying the local food, there is something for everyone. It is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to explore the beauty of Africa.