Things to Do in Kenya: Kenya Attractions
If safari is mentioned, definitely Kenya is mentioned. Best known for classic safaris, Kenya is a vibrant and diverse country. It is where you can explore wildlife viewing, forests, tribal cultures, freshwater lakes and more. Wildlife safaris are what distinguish Kenya among other destinations in South Africa.
There are plenty of things to do in Kenya, from exploring the various wildlife to relaxing and chilling on the beach. Here are the top 12 Things to do in Kenya.
1- Masai Mara National Reserve
Visited by thousands of tourists every year, Masai Mara National Park is one of the top tourist attractions in Kenya and the most popular game park. The national reserve introduces its visitors to an exceptional population of wild mammals and birds.
If you are lucky you might have a chance to witness the wildebeest migration. It takes place from July to October every year, when millions of zebras and wildebeests migrate from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.
2- Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park is a relatively small park, at the foot of Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro. Located close to the Tanzania border, it is the best place in Kenya and all Africa if you want to get close to free-ranging elephants. Visitors might also get to meet the Maasai people and enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
3- Lake Nakuru
Located in central Kenya, Lake Nakuru is a shallow lake that attracts vast quantities of flamingos, almost one million at once. Flamingos are considered one of Kenya’s most attractions. They are marvellous and breathtaking, called the greatest bird spectacle on earth.
4- Nairobi National Park
It is just a 10 minute drive from the center of Nairobi, with a fence separating the park. Although Nairobi National Park is small in size, it boasts various wildlife population. During the dry season, migrating zebras and wildebeests gather in the park. It is one of Kenya’s most successful rhinoceros sanctuaries.
5- Tsavo National Park
Divided into Tsavo West and Tsavo East, Tsavo is one of the largest national parks in the world and the largest in Kenya. Tsavo West has magnificent scenery with a rolling volcanic landscape. Tsavo East has a more open savannah compared to its western sibling. The national park is a perfect getaway for people who seek solitude and relaxation as well as the eagerness to explore the wilderness.
6- Samburu National Reserve
Located in Northern Kenya, Samburu National Reserve is a peaceful park. The park attracts wildlife thanks to the Uaso Nyiro River that runs through it. The forest and grassland vegetation also adds to the value of the park. The three bigh cats, lion, cheetah and leopard can be found here as well as elephants, buffalo and hippos. Large numbers of Nile crocodiles can be spotted in the Uaso Nyiro River.
7- Lamu Island
Fortunately, Lamu Island has managed to stay unspoiled by mass tourism through the years. Being the oldest living town in Kenya, Lamu Town has kept all its charms and character over the centuries.
Transporting on the island is no piece of cake, as there are no roads, just alleyways and footpaths. There are only a few motorized vehicles on the island. Residents move on foot or by boats. They use donkeys to transport goods and materials.
8- Mount Kenya
Mount Kenya is the second largest mountain in Africa, after Kilimanjaro. The mountain offers great scenery. It is marked by incredible views of Kenya and great glimpses of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.
Its series of peaks are covered in snow, and its slopes are covered with forest. Climbing the 5199 high summit is challenging.
9- Hell’s Gate National Park
Being a tiny park named after a narrow break in the cliffs, the highlight of Hell Gate’s National Park is that visitors are allowed to live the experience on their pace and walk without a guide. With steep cliffs, gorges and basalt columns, there is beautiful scenery. The park is a tiny park named after a narrow break in the cliffs.
The national park is a residence to various wildlife including lions, leopards, cheetahs, although many are few in number.
10- Mombasa
Being a multicultural tourist magnet, Mombasa offers something to everyone. Snorkling and diving are two of the best things that you can do here, as Coral reefs fringe the coast for 480 kilometers. Dolphin watching and deep-sea fishing are very popular activities as well.
Fort Jesus, Old Town and ancient Swahili markets and souvenir shops are a must visit while being in Mombasa.
Mombasa is a coastal hub, so beach lovers can relax and chill here. Nyali and Bamburi beaches are favorites in the north of the city. Shelley, Tiwi and Diani beaches are popular spots south of Mombasa.
11- Lake Naivasha
Lake Naivasha is located in the Rift Valley, not far from Hells Gate National Park. A sunset cruise is a perfect way to witness incredible birdlife and watch local fisherman as they sail.
12- Nyama Choma
Nyama Choma is a must-try experience for people who can afford meat in Kenya. It is Kenya’s version of roasted meat on the grill, prepared at roadside butcheries.
It is a unique experience where people walk into the butchery, watch the butcher slice a hunk of meat right off the carcasses, and finally let it roast as you wait. Goat is the most popular meat, but beef and chicken are available as well.