Kenya is known for its rich wildlife and countless nature reserves. Located in East Africa along the Indian Ocean, it has long been one of the most popular countries to visit on the continent. Incredibly diverse, its national parks include everything from mountains and deserts to wet plains and lakes. Today we are sharing the top 10 things to do in Kenya so you can plan a trip and experience all the exciting attractions and activities that this beautiful city has to offer.
Masai Mara National Reserve
Today we start with the world famous Masai Mara Reserve which is one of the most famous safari destinations in Kenya and the continent. The highlight of our trip to East Africa, it is home to exceptional populations of lions, leopards, cheetahs and elephants, as well as many other animals. Named for the Masai people, its open grasslands and seasonal rivers join with the Serengeti to the south. Every year, the park's plains host the Great Migration, an impressive natural phenomenon like no other.
Samburu National Reserve
Even wilder and more isolated, the Samburu National Reserve is incredibly diverse and located north of Mount Kenya. Due to its long distances compared to other parks, it receives far fewer visitors. Its extremely varied landscapes mean that many animals live there. Located almost in the center of the country, it is mostly dry and dusty, although rivers and forests can be found here and there. It is this great variety of vegetation and the winding Onggo River that attracts all the animals.
Amboseli National Park
Thanks to its huge herds of elephants and abundant wildlife, Amboseli National Park is consistently ranked among the best places to go on safari. It lies almost on the border with neighboring Tanzania. Its savannahs, woods and wetlands are a real treat to explore. Amboseli means dusty and salty place in the Masai language. Its unique habitats have been recognized as a nature reserve since 1908. Although some parts are very arid, the areas around its marshes create almost an oasis.
Malindi
Another popular destination if you're looking for sun, sea and sand is Malindi, located along the Indian Ocean. It has magnificent beaches, hotels and natural parks to visit. Long a hub for Italian tourists, its pearly white sand beaches are actually where Vasco da Gama landed in 1498. Still standing in the same spot, overlooking the ocean, is the coral column he erected all those years ago. For more historical sites, you can explore the Gedi Ruins, which protect the crumbling ruins of a 12th-century Swahili town.
Mount Kenya
The second highest peak in Africa after Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya towers 5,199 meters above the plains, valleys and forests below. Now protected as a national park, it typically takes four or five strenuous days to reach its towering peak. Climbing the peak is probably one of the most challenging and rewarding things to do in Kenya. Formed around 3 million years ago, the enormous extinct volcano is actually the origin of the country's name.
Lamu Island
One of the best destinations in East Africa to experience traditional Swahili culture is the charming island of Lamu, located along the northeastern coast of Kenya. It’s a very relaxing place that feels like you’ve traveled back in time. Part of the attractive archipelago of the same name, Lamu is the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the nation, founded in the 12th century. The maze-like streets of its old town are lined with charming coral stone buildings and peaceful courtyards.
Hell's Gate National Park
For those looking for an active vacation, Hell's Gate National Park is a good choice thanks to its excellent hiking, cycling and climbing opportunities. Its relatively close proximity to Nairobi and cheaper entrance fees also mean that many people travel there. Located just south of Lake Naivasha, it takes its name from a narrow gap in the park's cliffs. Besides the thin, beautiful red rocks, there are also a few extinct volcanoes to explore.
Nairobi National Park
The only nature reserve of its kind in the world, Nairobi National Park is literally on the doorstep of the country's capital. Seeing your skyline while looking at lions, elephants and giraffes is a surreal feeling that must be experienced. Created in the 1940s to protect the region's endangered wildlife, it consists mainly of vast open plains. Here and there, however, you will find pockets of forests along the rivers and small rocky gorges scattered here and there.
Lake Nakuru
One of Africa's iconic sights is the vast flock of bright pink flamingos that live at Lake Nakuru. Instantly recognizable, they make for fabulous photos alongside white rhinos and Rothschild's giraffes, which are regularly seen nearby. Stretching almost infinitely to the horizon, its reflecting waters lie in the Great Rift Valley.
Diani Beach
If after all the safaris and sightseeing you just want to relax and unwind, Diani dream beach is definitely the place to go. Located south of Mombasa, its vast expanses of white sand are a delight for lounging. Here you can also enjoy a multitude of fun water activities. Stretching approximately 17 km in length, the relaxing resort region lies along the vibrant Indian Ocean, dotted with numerous luxury hotels and resorts.
Now it's up to you to tell us what your favorite activities in Kenya are. Is there anything we missed? Let us know in the comments section below and don't forget to like this video and subscribe to our Newsletter if you haven't already.
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