Long after you’ve left Kenya, some things will stay with you forever – witnessing the Great Migration in the Mara, sampling ‘ugali’ dough or relaxing on the pristine beaches of the Kenyan coast. Here are the top reasons to visit Kenya.
For the ultimate experience, join Culture Trip’s expertly curated seven-day adventure in Kenya. Highlights include game drives in Aberdare National Park, admiring flamingos in Lake Nakuru and learning about Maasai culture in the Loita Hills.
There are more than 100 operational wildlife conservancies in Kenya, split between public and private land across the country. Each one aims to preserve and promote healthy wildlife ecosystems, complementing Kenya’s national park system. From Ol Pejeta near Mount Kenya to Ol Kinyei near the border with Tanzania, conservancies provide visitors with unforgettable experiences of incredible animals.
A visit to Kenya is incomplete without a visit to the beautiful beaches in Mombasa, Malindi, Diani and Lamu. Lapped by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, the coast offers snorkelling and kitesurfing adventures as well as complete relaxation. Stay in a Swahili beach house and take long strolls along soft sand in the evenings; make sure to try some fresh seafood and delicious Swahili cuisine.
From the bizarre to the traditional and everyday, sample an array of great local dishes while you’re here. The capital, Nairobi, is full of restaurants boasting diverse menus from across the globe. There are also some unique dining locations, including Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant and the Moorings Floating Restaurant in Mombasa. Ugali (a stiff, maize flour dough) is Kenya’s national dish – you’ll find it on every menu.
Whether you plan to hike, drive or cycle, the picturesque Kenyan landscapes will leave you in awe. From fields of green tea leaves in Kericho and the lush Kakamega rainforest, to the barren Nyiri and Chalbi deserts and towering peak of Africa’s second-largest mountain, Kenya’s nature is astounding. Make sure you explore beyond the safaris.
People in Nairobi party hard, so hit the clubs and lounges and laugh with locals. Visit the Central Business District, Westlands, Ngong Road or Nairobi West for the coolest clubs – the best days to party are Thursday, Friday and Saturday. If you’re not into loud music and dancing, try the laid-back jazz night at K1 Klub House. Brew Bistro & Lounge on Ngong Road is known for its craft beer, rooftop bar and salsa dancing.
When it comes to jewellery, you can always find beautiful items at Maasai Market and other Nairobi flea markets. These bustling places are also the best sites for buying clothing fabric, decor items and furniture. Recommended shops to visit in the capital include Kitengela Glass and Kazuri, for handmade beads.
Chloe Thrussell contributed additional reporting to this article.
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