Things to do in Kenya – Top 10 Tourist Attractions
Kenya offers a wide range of attractions that make it a diverse and exciting travel destination. While going on a safari in the renowned Masai Mara National Reserve is a must-do activity, there are many other captivating experiences to enjoy in this equatorial East African country. From the idyllic beaches and historic Swahili settlements along the Indian Ocean coastline to the majestic peaks of Africa’s tallest mountains, Kenya has something for every traveler seeking a tropical African holiday. Here are the top 10 things to do in Kenya:
Witness the World’s Largest Wildebeest Migration in the Masai Mara:
The Masai Mara is Kenya’s most popular safari destination, offering incredible opportunities to spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, and other carnivores. From August to October, you can witness the breathtaking spectacle of hundreds of thousands of wildebeest migrating across the border with Tanzania, including the awe-inspiring Mara River crossing.
Explore the Historic Fort Jesus in Mombasa:
Built by the Portuguese in 1593, Fort Jesus in Mombasa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has witnessed centuries of history. Its impressive turreted walls, rising 16 meters above the old harbor, house a fascinating site museum and a unique 17th-century fresco painted by an anonymous Portuguese sailor.
Conquer Majestic Mount Kenya:
Embark on the adventure of climbing Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest mountain. This extinct volcano’s glacial peaks reach a height of 5,199 meters and offer a challenging yet rewarding multi-day trek. Along the way, you’ll traverse through vibrant montane forests teeming with elephants and monkeys, as well as surreal Afro-alpine moorland dotted with giant lobelias. Summiting Point Lenana at 4,985 meters provides an exhilarating accomplishment.
Discover the Rift Valley Lakes and their Dazzling Birdlife:
The Rift Valley lakes northwest of Nairobi are renowned for their stunning scenery and rich birdlife. Lakes Nakuru and Bogoria are particularly famous for their flocks of flamingos that often create a pink spectacle. Even when flamingos are scarce, you can still marvel at a diverse range of tropical birds, including pelicans, storks, lovebirds, and bee-eaters.
Snorkel in the Coral Gardens of Watamu:
Located on the Indian Ocean coastline, Watamu is a beach paradise approximately 100 kilometers north of Mombasa. Its shallow bay is dotted with unique mushroom-shaped coral islets, offering fantastic snorkeling opportunities. You can simply wade into the calm waters and explore vibrant coral gardens teeming with colorful reef fish. Non-swimmers can also enjoy the marine life from a glass-bottomed boat.
Experience an Exclusive Private Safari in Laikipia Plateau:
Laikipia stands out among Kenya’s safari destinations as a collection of private reserves and community conservancies. Most lodges in this area offer all-inclusive packages that provide various activities, including game drives, night drives, bush walks, horseback excursions, and even camelback safaris. The wildlife viewing in Laikipia is exceptional, with a chance to spot the Big Five, African wild dogs, Grevy’s zebras, and reticulated giraffes.
Take a Walk on the Wild Side at Hell’s Gate and Mount Longonot:
Hell’s Gate National Park, located in the Great Rift Valley, offers a unique opportunity to walk or cycle through a park teeming with wildlife. You can explore this scenic park, known for its volcanic plugs, hot springs, and stunning landscapes, without a guide. While buffalo, giraffes, and antelopes are commonly spotted, you may also encounter big cats. The park is dominated by the towering presence of Mount Longonot, a nearby volcano with a captivating caldera that can be reached after a 90-minute hike.
Wander Through the Labyrinthine Alleys of Lamu’s Old Town:
Lamu, an island town with a rich history, is a hidden gem in East Africa. Flourishing as a trading port and center of Swahili art and scholarship in the 17th and 18th centuries, Lamu has retained its captivating Swahili cultural and architectural identity. The timeworn alleys of the old town offer a glimpse into the past and provide a unique and immersive experience.
Admire the Snowcapped Mount Kilimanjaro from Amboseli:
Amboseli National Park is renowned for its large elephant herds and diverse wildlife, including buffalo, giraffes, hippos, and wildebeest. The park’s most iconic feature is the breathtaking view of Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest freestanding mountain in the world. Witnessing Kilimanjaro’s snowcapped peak emerge from the clouds at dawn or dusk is an unforgettable sight and a must-see in Kenya.
Relax on the Idyllic Diani Beach:
Located 33 kilometers south of Mombasa, Diani Beach is a paradise with its pristine white sand, swaying coconut palms, and turquoise waters protected by a coral reef. This coastal gem offers a range of upmarket resort hotels and provides a serene setting for ultimate relaxation. The surrounding forests are also home to playful monkeys, and nearby Shimba Hills National Reserve offers the opportunity for a day safari.
With its remarkable wildlife, diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and stunning coastline, Kenya truly offers a wealth of experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests.
