tourist city in kenya

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kenya

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Jan 18, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Kenya — the name is almost synonymous with the word "safari." Few other places on the planet conjure such a spirit of adventure and romance. The diversity of tourist attractions in Kenya dazzles all who visit, and viewing the country's abundant wildlife tops the list of things to do.

See throngs of wildebeest thundering across the savanna during the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara; come eye-to-eye with elephants in Amboseli; or marvel at Lake Nakuru, flecked with thousands of flamingos. In these sun-soaked lands, ancient tribes, such as the Maasai, Kikuyu, and Samburu, retain their traditional customs, living in relative harmony with the natural world.

Beyond the world-famous safari parks lies a trove of coastal treasures. You can snorkel and dive fish-rich coral reefs, relax on pearly beaches, experience the melting pot of cultures and cuisines in Mombasa and Malindi, and explore tropical islands steeped in Swahili history.

Topographically, Kenya is stunning. Surrounded by calderas and mountain ranges, the Great Rift Valley divides the country. To the east of this sweeping valley, you can climb the peaks of Mount Kenya and fish for trout in crystal-clear streams. Hell's Gate National Park harbors obsidian caves, and hisses with natural geysers and hot springs.

To experience Kenya's colorful colonial history, captured in the film Out of Africa , head to Nairobi. Discover more places to visit in this fascinating country with our list of the top tourist attractions in Kenya.

1. Maasai Mara National Reserve

2. amboseli national reserve, 3. tsavo national park, 4. samburu, buffalo springs, and shaba national reserves, 5. lake nakuru national park, 6. lamu island, 7. lake naivasha, 9. nairobi national park, 10. david sheldrick wildlife trust elephant nursery, 11. giraffe centre, 12. malindi, 13. mombasa, 14. mount kenya national park, 15. hell's gate national park, 16. ol pejeta conservancy.

Maasai Mara National Reserve (also "Masai Mara") is one of Africa's most magnificent game reserves . Bordering Tanzania, the Mara is the northern extension of the Serengeti and forms a wildlife corridor between the two countries.

It's named after the statuesque, red-cloaked Maasai people who live in the park and graze their animals here, as they have done for centuries. In their language, Mara means "mottled," perhaps a reference to the play of light and shadow from the acacia trees and cloud-studded skies on the vast grasslands.

The park is famous for the Great Migration , when thousands of wildebeest, zebra, and Thomson's gazelle travel to and from the Serengeti, from July through October.

In the Mara River , throngs of hippos and crocodiles lurk. The park is also known for providing excellent predator sightings, thanks to its relatively large populations of lion, cheetah, and leopard - especially in the dry months from December through February.

Thanks to the park's altitude, the weather here is mild and gentle year-round.

Crowned by Mount Kilimanjaro , Africa's highest peak, Amboseli National Reserve is one of Kenya's most popular tourist parks. The name "Amboseli" comes from a Maasai word meaning "salty dust," an apt description for the park's parched conditions.

The reserve is one of the best places in Africa to view large herds of elephants up close. Other wildlife commonly spotted in the park includes big cats, such as lion and cheetah, as well as giraffe, impala, eland, waterbuck, gazelle, and more than 600 species of birds.

Nature lovers can explore five different habitats here, ranging from the dried-up bed of Lake Amboseli , wetlands with sulfur springs, savannah, and woodlands. Look for the local Maasai people who live in the area around the park.

Kenya's largest park, Tsavo, is sliced in two: Tsavo West and Tsavo East. Together these parks comprise four percent of the country's total area and encompass rivers, waterfalls, savannah, volcanic hills, a massive lava-rock plateau, and an impressive diversity of wildlife.

Midway between Nairobi and Mombasa, Tsavo East is famous for photo-worthy sightings of large elephant herds rolling and bathing in red dust. The palm-fringed Galana River twists through the park, providing excellent game viewing and a lush counterpoint to the arid plains.

Other highlights here include the Yatta Plateau, the world's longest lava flow; Mudanda Rock; and the Lugard Falls, which spill into rapids and crocodile-filled pools.

Tsavo West is wetter and topographically more varied, with some of the most beautiful scenery in the northern reaches of the park. Highlights here are Mzima Springs , a series of natural springs with large populations of hippos and crocodiles; Chaimu Crater , a great spot for seeing birds of prey; and Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary .

Wildlife is not as easy to see in Tsavo West because of the denser vegetation, but the beautiful scenery more than compensates.

On the banks of the palm-lined Ewaso Nyiro River , Samburu, Buffalo Springs, and Shaba Reserves lie in an arid region in the remote north of Kenya.

Shaba National Reserve is one of two areas where George and Joy Adamson raised Elsa the lioness, made famous in the film Born Free .

The wildlife in all three reserves depends on the waters of the river to survive, and many species are specially adapted to the parched conditions. These include Grevy's zebras; Somali ostriches; and gerenuks, the long-necked antelope that stand on two rear legs to reach the fresh shoots on upper tree limbs.

A top attraction in Samburu National Reserve are the Sarara Singing Wells , local watering holes where Samburu warriors sing traditional songs while hauling water for their cattle to drink. You might also be rewarded with sightings of big cats and wild dogs.

Lake Nakuru National Park, in Central Kenya, is famous for its huge flocks of pink flamingos. The birds throng on Lake Nakuru itself, one of the Rift Valley soda lakes that covers almost a third of the park's area.

The park was established in 1961, and more than 450 species of birds have been recorded here, as well as a rich diversity of other wildlife. Lions, leopards, warthogs, waterbucks, pythons, and white rhinos are just some of the animals you might see, and the landscapes range from sweeping grasslands bordering the lake to rocky cliffs and woodland.

The park also protects the largest euphorbia candelabrum forest in Africa . These tall, branching succulents are endemic to the region and provide a bold textural element to the arid landscapes.

Read More: Best Lakes in Africa

The small island of Lamu, northeast of Mombasa, oozes old-world charm. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lamu Old Town is Kenya's oldest continually inhabited settlement, with origins dating back to the 12th century.

Strolling the labyrinthine streets is one of the top things to do here. You can see the island's rich trading history reflected in the buildings. Architectural features from the Arab world, Europe, and India are evident, yet with a discernible Swahili technique. Intricately carved wooden doors, coral stone buildings, hidden courtyards, verandas, and rooftop patios are common features.

Sightseeing here is like stepping back in time. Dhows plow the harbor, few if any motorized vehicles exist here, and donkeys still rule the streets as they have done for centuries. Most of Lamu's population is Muslim, and both men and women dress in traditional attire.

Top attractions on the island include Lamu Museum, with displays on Swahili culture and the region's nautical history; Lamu Fort; and the Donkey Sanctuary.

Lamu Island is also home to Shela Beach, one of the best beaches in Africa . You can bask in the sun or plan for more adventure. Over the past number of years, the island has become a hot spot for kitesurfing. Wide-open spaces with little kite traffic and shallow warm water is perfect for learning near the village of Shela.

A haven for birders, Lake Naivasha lies at the highest point of the Great Rift Valley. More than 400 species of birds have been spotted here, including African fish eagles, jacanas, white-fronted bee-eaters, and several species of kingfishers.

One of the best ways to view the wildlife is by boat. Hippos slosh in the water, and giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and eland graze around the edges of the lake. Keep a lookout for colobus monkeys in the canopies, too.

Near Lake Naivasha, the Crater Lake Game Sanctuary features a wildlife-rich nature trail.

Just south of Lake Naivasha , the relatively affordable Hell's Gate National Park protects a wide variety of wildlife and offers excellent climbing opportunities, with two extinct volcanoes and the red cliffs of Hell's Gate Gorge.

On the southern shore of Lake Naivasha, you can pop in for a cup of tea at the Elsamere Conservation Centre, the former home of the late Joy Adamson, author of Born Free , and her husband George.

Note that Lake Naivasha has been known to shrink considerably in times of extreme drought, and a flourishing floriculture industry in the area is also impacting water levels and quality. But the lake is typically lush and full of life.

If you're looking for things to do in Kenya other than a safari, you'll have plenty of choices in the country's capital and largest city. Nairobi is legendary for its colorful colonial history. It was once the capital of British East Africa, luring settlers who came here to stake their fortune in the coffee and tea industries. Today, you can explore the city's famous historic sites and excellent wildlife-related attractions .

Craving some cultural attractions in Kenya? You'll find several worthwhile places to visit in Nairobi. The Nairobi National Museum is a great one-stop spot to see exhibits on Kenya's history, nature, culture, and contemporary art. Green thumbs will also enjoy the botanic gardens on the grounds.

Another popular tourist attraction is the Karen Blixen Museum, the restored residence of the famous Danish author of the book Out of Africa , also known by her pen name, Isak Dinesen.

To see wildlife without venturing far from the city center, visit Nairobi National Park , now a black rhino sanctuary and also home to a diversity of other African wildlife.

Read More: Best Cities in Africa

Who says you need to go far from Nairobi to enjoy a safari? A mere 15-minute drive from the clamor of Kenya's capital, you can gaze at a snoozing pride of lions or a graceful giraffe strutting through the golden grass at Nairobi National Park.

Visiting this wildlife-rich park is one of the top things to do if you're staying in Nairobi, and it makes a rewarding day trip - especially if you can't make it to one of the larger game reserves.

All the classic safari stars here, including buffalo, leopard, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, elephants, and cheetah, and you can also see some of the planet's most endangered species at the park's rhino sanctuary .

The Nairobi Safari Walk provides a rewarding opportunity to spot wildlife on foot, and birders will be happy to know that more than 400 species of birds also inhabit the park, including the beautiful grey crowned crane.

And no visit to the park would be complete without popping into the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Nursery at the park's main gates.

Official site: http://www.kws.go.ke/parks/nairobi-national-park

Who can resist a baby elephant? At the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, you can mingle with impossibly cute baby pachyderms and feel good about supporting an important conservation organization at the same time.

This famous wildlife sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates orphaned elephants and offers you the chance to see these lovable creatures up close. This is where the youngest elephants are hand-reared until about two or three years of age, and you can watch the keepers bottle-feed the babies.

From the sanctuary, staff relocate the elephants to a reintegration center in Tsavo East National Park before they are eventually released back into the wild.

Watching these playful pint-sized pachyderms wallow in the mud or nudge a soccer ball around is something you will never forget. If you want to do more to help these magnificent animals, consider adopting an orphaned elephant, giraffe, or rhino before you go, and you'll receive regular updates on its progress.

Conveniently, the nursery sits right at the main gates of Nairobi National Park , so you can visit both of these famous tourist attractions in the same day.

Located near the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Nursery, the Giraffe Center is a must-visit attraction near Nairobi National Park. The center is devoted to the rehabilitation and reintroduction of the Rothschild Giraffe to the wildlife parks of Kenya. As part of a visit, the staff explain their work during a 15- to 20-minute overview.

A visit here allows you to get up close and personal with these gentle giants. Equipped with your very own bowl of giraffe food, you'll be able to feed these curious creatures. The feeding area is on a raised platform, which puts you close to head height of the giraffes, who will stoop down slightly and extend their giant blackish, grey tongues to scoop up what you have on offer.

Although perhaps not as beautiful as the giraffes, several warthogs also roam the property and are also willing to eat the giraffe food should you be inclined to share with them.

North of Mombasa on the Kenyan coast, Malindi has a split personality. This popular beach town is part historic old town, part modern tourist hub. Thanks to its rich trading history, it is also a melting pot of cultures and cuisines.

Travelers, many from Europe, come here to sun on the white sands of Watamu Beach and dive the coral reefs of the Malindi and Watamu Marine National Parks . If you're looking for free things to do in Kenya, you can do worse than bask on a beautiful Malindi Beach.

You can also soak up a dose of Swahili history in the historic town, which dates from the 12th century. Here, you can visit the Jami Mosque; two pillar tombs from the 14th century; and the Church of St. Francis Xavier, one of East Africa's oldest churches.

On the promontory, the Vasco De Gama Cross is one of the oldest standing monuments in Africa.

Another popular tourist attraction is the Falconry of Kenya , a rehabilitation center for sick and injured birds.

Also worth visiting, about 30 kilometers northeast of Malindi is the Marafa Depression . Also called Hell's Kitchen or Nyari this set of sandstone gorges sculpted by the wind and rain is like a mini Grand Canyon.

Mombasa is a multicultural tourist magnet. It's also Kenya's second largest city and biggest port. British, Portuguese, Arab, Indian, and Asian immigrants add to the rich cultural mix, and their influence is evident in the architecture, as well as the many different types of cuisine.

Mombasa is actually an island connected to its mushrooming development on the mainland by a causeway, bridges, and ferries. Coral reefs fringe the coast for 480 kilometers, providing fantastic snorkeling and diving opportunities, especially at Mombasa Marine National Park and around Wasini Island. Dolphin watching and deep-sea fishing are also popular things to do in Mombasa.

You'll find plenty of tourist attractions along the Kenyan coast here. History buffs will enjoy exploring the 16th-century Fort Jesus and Old Town with its narrow streets, ancient Swahili dwellings, markets, and souvenir shops.

Other Mombasa tourist attractions cram the city's north shore, including Mombasa Go-Kart, cinemas, sports, and a cornucopia of restaurants.

This being a coastal hub, beach lovers will find some worthy strands nearby. North of the city, Nyali and Bamburi Beaches are favorites, while the white strands of Shelly, Tiwi, and Diani Beaches are popular spots south of Mombasa.

In the Central Highlands, east of the Great Rift Valley , Mount Kenya National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that provides the rare spectacle of equatorial snow . It encompasses the country's namesake highest mountain at 5,199 meters.

Formed by a series of volcanic eruptions, Mount Kenya is actually comprised of three glacier-cloaked peaks. The highest is Batian, although Nelion, the next highest, is a tougher climb. The lowest peak, Lenana, is considered the easiest climb, although unpredictable weather can pose challenges.

Bring your camera. The striking scenery varies from glaciers, lakes, and mineral springs to alpine forest and dense pockets of bamboo.

The diversity of flora and fauna provides rewarding opportunities for safaris. Among the wildlife here, you may spot black and white colobus monkeys, buffalo, elephant, tree hyrax, leopard, and hyena.

Planning to spend a few days here? Nestled in the foothills, the famous Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club is a luxury retreat with trout fishing, golf, and tennis.

A hot spot for climbers, Hell's Gate National Park is one of the few parks in Kenya that allows camping and enables you to explore on foot or bicycle.

Hell's Gate offers excellent climbing and hiking opportunities, with two extinct volcanoes; the red cliffs of Hell's Gate Gorge; ObsidianCaves ; and the pointed column of rock known as Fischer's Tower , a former volcanic plug.

Geothermal features include hot springs and natural geysers hissing steam through vents in the earth's crust. The park also protects a wide variety of wildlife, including leopards, baboons, hartebeest, eland, ostriches, gazelles, and more than 100 species of birds. Eagle and vulture breeding grounds also lie within the park.

The Oloor Karia Maasai Cultural Centre within the park is also worth a visit, with Maasai singing, dancing, and jewelry-making demonstrations.

Interestingly, Olkaria Geothermal Station lies within Hell's Gate National Park. It generates power from heated, pressurized water underground and is the first of its kind in Africa.

About 200 kilometers north of Nairobi, near Mount Kenya National Park , Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a prime place for close-up wildlife encounters.

Conservation and sustainability are key at this 90,000-acre private game reserve, where you can view the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo), as well as other animals such as cheetah, hyenas, zebra, and hartebeest - all set against the breathtaking backdrop of snowcapped Mount Kenya.

The conservancy is perhaps best known for its northern and southern white rhinos, including Baraka, a blind black rhino, who lucky visitors might have the chance to feed.

You can view the wildlife on self-drive or guided tours, and entry includes a visit to the chimpanzee sanctuary . Day visitors are welcome, and if you want to extend your wilderness adventure, you can stay overnight in accommodations that range from bush camps and safari cottages to a charming colonial ranch house.

Official site: http://www.olpejetaconservancy.org/

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Home » Travel Guides » Kenya » 15 Best Places to Visit in Kenya

15 Best Places to Visit in Kenya

Kenya lies at the very heart of the East African Rift Valley. A place of world-class wildlife viewing and legendary game reserves, it’s surely amongst the most-visited of countries in the region.

Just check out the bucket-list-busting migrations that take place in the vast Mara, or look to the soaring heights of Mount Kenya, surrounded by flamingos and rare rhinos and wildebeest and more! However, Kenya’s isn’t just about 4X4s across the savannahs to spot elephants and lions.

It’s also got mile upon mile of beautiful coastline along the Indian Ocean.

And that means beaches! Yep, travelers flock to the shorelines around Malindi and Mombasa to taste all the exoticism of Zanzibar, all mixed up with the smells of Keralan curries and Arabic tagines thanks to the multi-layered history.

And then there are the cities, topping out with the heady and energetic mass that is Nairobi – one of the largest metropolises in all of East Africa!

Lets explore the best places to visit in Kenya :

1. Maasai Mara

Home to perhaps the single most famous safari park in the world (sorry Kruger), this relatively small national reserve magnesites thousands of travelers to the reaches of East Africa every year.

It’s bordered to the south (and immediately contiguous with) Tanzania’s acclaimed Serengeti National Park, and displays the quintessential backcountry of the East African Rift: undulating savannah plains peppered with galloping zebra herds; swaying grasslands punctuated with the lanky stalks of giraffes; meadows of topi and waterholes dotted with cape buffalo.

Safari is – of course – the biggest pull, with countless people heading in for The Great Migration and to see the fabled Big Five of African mammals.

2. Lamu Island

Ringed by sandbanks, bobbing dhows, mangrove swamps and the lapping waters of the Indian Ocean on the eastern edge of Kenya, little Lamu Island still plays host to one of the most historically rich towns in the nation.

Named – appropriately – Lamu Old Town, this historic port of whitewashed facades and tropical timber wood houses is tagged by UNESCO for its exposition of traditional Swahili building methods.

But that’s not it, because the villages of Shela and Matondoni further along the coast of Lamu also boast a series of fascinating ports and mosques from centuries gone by, while the age-old celebrations of Mawlid are a must for any culture vultures!

3. Amboseli National Park

Amboseli lives up to its reputation as one of the crème de la crème of East African safari parks, and not least of all with that fine location below the colossal outline of none other than Mount Kilimanjaro! In the shadow of that snow-topped massif – the highest on the continent – this protected reserve spreads out in a patchwork of dusty plains and savannahs, fields of curious sulphur spouts and riparian wetlands all trodden by some of the largest elephant herds in the country.

Today, wildlife lovers flock here to safari and see the great galumphing beasts next to cheetahs, wildebeest, giraffes, zebra and more!

Sprawling, steel-clad Nairobi isn’t the prettiest of African cities at first glance, granted.

But there’s real charm and energy to be found in this nigh on four-million-strong capital in the southern heart of Kenya for sure.

For starters, the town is famed as the only great metropolis with a bona fide safari park smack bang within city limits – just check out the Nairobi National Park, where giraffes meet cheetahs against the meanders of the Mbagathi River.

Add to that a series of great central markets that bubble with East African hotpots and foods, along with one of Kenya’s best nightlife scenes, and bingo: you’ve got yourself a town that’s really worth the stopover!

5. Hell’s Gate National Park

Sat midway between the city of Nairobi and the backcountry town of Nakuru, Hell’s Gate covers a humble 68 square kilometers in the midst of southern Kenya.

A place of real natural beauty, it’s defined by startling and unforgettable rock formations that rise like splinters from the scrub-dressed ground.

Considered by many to have been the inspiration for the Disney film The Lion King, the area has high escarpments and deep valleys carved through its terrain, each bearing curious monikers like Fischer’s Tower and the great Embarta.

Between the gorges and canyons, you can expect to see wildebeest and vultures, African buffalo and Thomson’s gazelle, not to mention packs of lions to boot!

6. Tsavo East National Park

One of the oldest and largest national parks in all of East Africa, the great stretches of Tsavo East rarely fail to top charts of the finest safari destinations on the planet.

They can be found cascading down from the sun-baked highlands of the Chyulu Hills that straddle the border with Tanzania to the south; a mosaic of swaying savannah grasses and red-hued rocks that rise like escarpments from the dusty, arid grounds.

The eastern edge of the park is delineated by the flow of the Athi River, which gives way to the great stones of Yatta – one of the largest lava channels in the world.

And then there are the animals: everything from white-tailed mongooses to cape buffalo, ground pangolins to cheetahs!

With overtones as exotic as nearby Zanzibar and a history as deep as any of East Africa’s cities, Mombasa is an enigmatic and wonderful place to visit.

Swahili roots and traditions die hard, even after the influence of the erstwhile Portuguese and Arabic rulers raised colonial edifices and grand mosques between the streets.

Take some time to wander the European-flavoured Old Town, sample the spicy Indian-influenced curries and take in the energy of Mombasa port.

But don’t linger too long, because the beaches await, going from the shimmering white stretches along Bamburi to the palm tree groves of Shanzu!

Ah Malindi: a town of tin-shack homes and old mosque towers from centuries gone by, where the sea has never been so warm and the sand has never been so white! Yep, this humble little trading town on Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast has risen and risen in recent decades to become the favourite choice of European and American visitors looking to taste the sun and salt water of East Africa.

Monuments to the great Portuguese explore Vasco da Gama Pillar still mark the center of the place – a testimony to its long past – while strips of palm-backed beaches and resorts, pretty piazzas and even pizza restaurants bring in the biggest crowds.

9. Samburu National Reserve

The Samburu National Reserve marks the very heart of Kenya as a whole.

Hundreds of miles from the coast, and just edging up to the rising highlands that define East Africa, the area gets its lifeblood from the meanders of the trickling Ewaso Ng’iro, which drops down this way from the ice-caked top of Mount Kenya itself.

The terrain is defined by flat-topped acacia trees and the occasional riparian oases of palms, while the wildlife includes lions and gazelles, Tanzanian cheetahs, waterbucks, crocodiles and olive baboons.

10. Lake Nakuru

Lake Nakuru now sits at the heart of its very own national park.

Just a small speck of blue on the Kenyan map, this curious body of water rises above the Great Rift Valley from between the acacia groves and meadows that surround it.

It’s famed primarily for its truly kaleidoscopic array of birdlife, which is defined by the pinkish glow of flamingos for most of the year.

Head up to the high-perched lookout points of Baboon Cliff for some dramatic views of the area, before hitting the winding dirt tracks that ring the water’s edge to spot Eastern black rhinos, baboons and countless migrating birds alike.

11. Laikipia

The rise and rise of the Laikipia District as one of Kenya’s prime ecotourist hotspots has defied all expectations.

Without any totemic national parks or game reserves, the region entered the scene with just the pulls of its natural backcountry.

And as soon as the tour companies caught on to the unspoilt beauties of the sweeping green highlands and hills that rise and fall here, the rest was history.

Today, oodles of safari folk flock come to enjoy off-the-beaten-track wildlife spotting, with destinations like the Sosian Game Ranch, the Ol Ari Nyiro Conservancy and others boasting the likes of Grevy’s zebras, wild dogs and uber-rare black rhinos.

12. Lake Naivasha

Like Nakuru, Lake Naivasha’s little brother, located just to the north-west, this mirror-like body of water is one of the real jewels of the Kenyan Rift.

Shining in hues of sky-blue beneath the red rock ridges of the aforementioned Hell’s Gate park, the spot is widely famed for its thriving birdlife.

For example, there are uber-rare bearded vultures to see, along with ospreys, hawks and eagles.

Add to that the geothermal power plants and geological phenomenon that occur in the nearby mountains, and it’s easy to see why Naivasha is now considered such a fascinating place to visit!

With one foot in Lake Victoria and the other on the great highways that lead east to Nairobi, Mombasa and the port towns of the Indian Ocean, it’s hardly surprising that Kisumu cut its teeth in the mercantile trade.

However, things have ebbed and flowed a lot in the last couple of decades, with the steam boats and transports dropping off for some time.

Revival is now in the works, but Kisumu has a regained respect for its historical traditions and natural attractions too.

So, forget the great freights and oil pipes, and look instead to the biodiversity of Dunga Beach, or the curious architecture of the Kisumu Town Clock in the center of the city.

Nyeri is very much the self-proclaimed gateway to the Central Highlands of Kenya.

At heart, it’s a dusty transport hub of a town, with purring scooters and rickshaws moving through the square-cut blocks and between the low-rise marketplaces.

However, its enviable location on the very edge of the Aberdare Mountains, within reach of the Aberdare National Park (home to leopards, African wild dogs, giant forest hogs, cape buffalos, rhinos and more), Mount Suswa and the South-western Mau Reserve makes it a real magnet for outdoorsy types!

15. Marsabit

Rising in a medley of ramshackle tin homes and lean-to timber shacks from the midst of the great Kenyan deserts in the north, this largely untrodden town is one for the conservation buffs and ethical tourists.

It’s currently the focus of a number of humanitarian missions, which are attempting to provide schooling, clean water and the like to the local tribal communities.

More than 422 kilometers from Nairobi, the town is far-flung to say the least, but that means an authentic view of Kenyan life, and a chance to see the wilder (if that’s possible!), more arid and unexplored section of this popular East African country.

15 Best Places to Visit in Kenya:

• Maasai Mara
• Lamu Island
• Amboseli National Park
• Hell's Gate National Park
• Tsavo East National Park
• Samburu National Reserve
• Lake Nakuru
• Lake Naivasha

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The Top 25 Tourist Attractions in Kenya

Kenya offers a fantastic safari destination to enjoy a diversity of incredible and iconic African wildlife. Here we list some of the 25 best attractions and things to do in Kenya with links to different tours, accommodation, and some travel bloggers who have visited the areas to give you their own opinions.

Game Safari on the Masai Mara

The Masai Mara is a wildlife-filled savanna habitat contiguous with Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. There is a fantastic variety of animals to see on your safari and some of the icons you can find roaming the Masai Mara include giraffes walking the plains, elephants at waterholes or sometimes investigating your camp, the occasional rhino standing its ground, hyenas scouting for food, hippos and crocodiles in the waterways, and lions resting in the shade.

These are then joined once a year by millions of wildebeest accompanied by zebra and antelope, which cross from the dry grass in Tanzania to the lush green savanna of the Masai Mara.

Game drives on the Masai Mara are a must-do activity for your visit to Kenya. And our recommendation to make the most of your visit is the Mara Bushtops Camp .

Nestled in its own secluded conservancy, the Mara Bushtops Camp offers you exclusive Masai Mara encounters minus the crowds. This award-winning luxury camp blends luxury with sustainability, harnessing eco-friendly practices and helps to support local Maasai communities, including direct support for local schools and from guest donations. The camp fosters enduring partnerships with Maasai communities, jointly safeguarding this remarkable conservancy.

The camp has been featured in Forbes, Conde Nast Traveler and National Geographic. And it certainly deserves the attention.

You can check availability for your travel dates and learn more about the safari by sending your request direct to the Mara Bushtops Camp using the tour bubble below.

The Mara Bushtops Safari Camp

The Mara Bushtops Camp is where luxury meets the wild. Nestled in its own private paradise, the luxury camp offers ...

Includes: all meals, 2 daily game drives or full day game drives with picnic lunch, accommodation, sun downer and night game drive, walking safari accompanied by an armed ranger, all non alcoholic drinks, beers, house wines, selected house spirits. | 3, 4, 5 days+

Hot Air Balloon Ride over the Masai Mara

As a fantastic draw to Kenya, you can enjoy a hot air balloon ride over the Masai Mara to see some truly remarkable wildlife spectacles from a very unique perspective. Enjoy a stay at the Mara Bushtops Camp offering this incredible activity.

The luxurious Mara Bushtops Camp is situated in a private Masai Mara conservancy offering you an exclusive experience with more privacy while at camp and while on safari.

In addition to fantastic game drives to find elephants, rhinos, giraffes and many other animals, one of the best activity options is the hot air balloon ride for incredible memories of this iconic region.

Float over the Masai Mara on a before-dawn hot air balloon ride. The flames from the burners inflate the craft and light the morning’s darkness, with the crew preparing the balloon for your adventure. The balloon rises with daybreak as the first glimpses of sunlight illuminate the savanna. You will then be on your adventure in the suspended basked beneath the balloon with your camera poised for some fantastic images.

The flight over the Mara lasts around 60 minutes and we will drift where the wind takes us. There will be many opportunities for photographs or filming a unique angle on the animals. In keeping with true hot air ballooning tradition, your flight then ends with a champagne breakfast, which will be cooked where we land followed by a transfer back to your comfortable camp.

To check availability for your travel dates, send your request to the Mara Bushtops Camp using the tour bubble below.

Nairobi National Park

The main tourist attraction in Nairobi, the Nairobi National Park is unique as the only national park within a city boundary. From the edge of the city, you can even see giraffes in the distance. The wide open grasslands of the national park are backed by the city’s buildings and you can find a wide variety of iconic wildlife living here, such as lions, giraffes, cheetah, hyenas, buffalo, and a diversity of birdlife.

A historically important protected area, this was Kenya’s first national park and is just 7 km south of the city. You can see the Ivory Burning Monument where the Kenyan President Daniel arap Moi made a statement for conservation by burning 12 tons of ivory at the site back in 1989. This was during a time when hunting of large animals in East Africa was at an all time high.

Although a small national park at 117 square kilometers (28,963 acres), many animals call the park home and it’s the destination of choice for a great many migrating herbivores. The park is also home to one of Kenya’s healthiest rhino populations.

The park joins to a conservation corridor for the Athi-Kapiti plains towards the south of the park making is such a draw for wildlife. In addition to the iconic larger animals, there are a number of others to be found here including ostriches, baboons, gazelles, eland, impala, and a very high diversity of birds. Including migrants, there are around 500 different bird species found within the park boundaries making it a great place for birders.

The park includes a rhinoceros sanctuary, which was originally set up in 1963, which has become one of the most successful in Kenya. The Nairobi National Park is, therefore, one of the only places where visitors have an almost certain chance of seeing black rhinoceros in their natural habitat.

For the best experience of Nairobi National Park, we recommend the Ololo Safari Lodge positioned with beautiful national park views. Head out on safaris from the lodge to enjoy incredible wildlife viewing then return to the luxurious comfort of the lodge and delicious meals.

To learn more and check availability for your travel dates, send the Ololo Safari Lodge a message using the tour bubble below.

The Ololo Safari Lodge

The Ololo Safari Lodge offers you a very comfortable base to experience the Nairobi National Park’s incredible wildlife and scenery. ...

Includes: airport transfers, full breakfasts, 2-course lunches, 3-course dinners, soft drinks, house wine, house beer, selected spirits, 2 daily Nairobi National Park game drives, guided walks to Anselm & Kitengela Hot Glass, guided farm tours. | 3, 4, 5 days+

Amboseli National Park

Positioned in the Rift Valley, Amboseli National Park is just southeast of Nairobi and is the second most popular protected area in Kenya after the Masai Mara National Reserve. One of the best places to see wild elephants, the Amboseli National Park is a world famous protected area among wildlife lovers and safari goers. The park covers 39,206 hectares and is located across the Kenya-Tanzania border. The park is world famous for how easy it is to see wild African elephants, but there is a lot more to see here. The park provides great opportunities to see different iconic African animals, including the elephants, buffalo, impala, kudu, wild dogs, lions, cheetahs, wildebeest, hyena, zebra, and giraffes. Not only mammals, Amboseli is home to around 400 different species of birds, including kingfishers, raptors, and pelicans.

In addition to incredible wildlife safaris, the park provides a great cultural experience where you can meet some of the Maasai and visit a traditional village. Of course, this is also a fantastic place to see the world-famous Mount Kilimanjaro. As the world’s highest free-standing mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro is the jewel in the park and makes a fantastic backdrop while on safari, which is actually located just across the border in Tanzania.

The habitats to enjoy in the park include savanna grasslands, wetlands, and woods. The scenery of the park is incredible and although the mountain itself can be obscured with could cover, the mountain often reveals itself at dawn and dusk. You will have some fantastic wildlife experiences within the park and you can choose to explore the park on game drives, horseback rides, and walking safaris. There are a number of fantastic lodges in the park, including some very comfortable luxury options.

Some travel bloggers who visited the Amboseli National Park are Seattle from Seattlestravels.com and Helen from Heleninwonderlust.co.uk .

Tsavo East National Park & Tsavo West National Park

When taken together, this is one of the largest national parks in Kenya and the Tsavo East National Park is one of the oldest in the country. The park is named after the Tsavo River, which flows through the protected area. The park was split because of the railway that links Nairobi with Mombasa, which means you will have fantastic views on the train journey and opportunities for seeing different wild animals.

There are a few different natural attractions in the park, such as the Yatta Plateau, which is the world’s longest lava flow at 290 km. You can also enjoy the Lugard Falls, which is a series of white water rapids on the Galana River. But the main attraction is the wildlife and you can see many of the African icons, such as the park’s famous Tsavo lions that lack the usual lion mane. Other animals to see include cheetah, buffalo, African hunting dog, elephants, duiker, gazelle, hyena, leopards, and a variety of others.

In addition to the fantastic mammal sightings in the park, you can enjoy 500 different birds including kingfishers, hornbills, kestrels, buzzards, and ostriches.

Tsavo East National Park This is the largest of the park sections and contains the flattest ground. The section contains the Yatta Plateau and Lugard Falls. Because of the flatter area and lack of vegetation, it’s often easier to spot more wildlife in this section.

Tsavo West National Park This section of the park contains more fascinating geography and is more mountainous. The area also contains more swamps and lakes, which makes it the favored section for bird watchers, but also for seeing some of the big game animals, such as elephants, rhino, hippo, lions, and leopards.

There are some fantastic lodges to enjoy in both the Tsavo East National Park & Tsavo West National Park to make the most of your stay and to enjoy safaris to see the animals. Many of the lodges have a waterhole close-by, which means the wildlife comes to you.

Visit Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is the world’s largest tropical lake and is the jewel in the Great Rift Valley region. The lake then feeds the Nile River, which was one of the world’s longest and most historically significant rivers. The lake itself is shared by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania and plays an important role in each country.

Named after Queen Victoria, the lake is only exceeded in size by Lake Superior and is a marvel to behold when standing on the lake shore. The lake area is home to a number of birds and contains around 200 different fish, including economically important species for the surrounding regions, such as the Tilapia. However, the wildlife here is quite sparse compared with nearby lakes, such as Lake Nakuru which we will mention next. You can, however, combine both these experiences on the same tour. Lake Victoria is the preferred place for relaxation and contains some beautiful islands where you enjoy tours around the lake to observe different birds and beautiful scenery.

Lake Nakuru

Lake Nakuru is one the most popular lakes of the Great Rift Valley and is protected in the Lake Nakuru National Park. The picturesque Lake Nakuru and national park is well known for abundant flamingos, rhino and fantastic scenery.

There are different lodges near the lake that offer excellent tours. You will begin your excursion to Lake Nakuru after an early breakfast and will enjoy a drive to the Great Rift Valley. Although this is one of Kenya’s smallest national parks, many visitors regard it as one of the most attractive. The lake itself draws many different animals, such as the great and lesser flamingos, which are the stars of the area, but also a large number of rhino.

In addition to the flamingos and many other birds, the other animals to see in the area include warthogs, baboons, hippos, and of course the rhinos. The word Nakuru itself means ‘dusty place’ in the local Maasai language and the park was established in 1961 and originally only included the lake itself, but now incorporates some of the surrounding savanna habitat. Some lucky visitors even see the area’s population of tree-climbing lions and there are about 50 individuals that roam the park.

Mombasa & Mombasa Island

Mombasa island is on Kenya’s coast and located east from Nairobi through the Tsavo National Park if coming by railway, although you can also find the international airport on the island along with the city of Mombasa. The city itself is the second largest in Kenya after Nairobi and offers a warmer climate. From Mombasa, you have access to Kenya’s coastal areas and fantastic beaches.

The world famous Kenyan coastline is fringed with palm trees and dotted with comfortable accommodation options. This provides a fantastic and contrasting place to relax after your Kenyan safari. You can enjoy attractive scenery, historical attractions, beautiful beaches, and diverse coral reefs.

As Mombasa is a very busy port city, you can expect a bit of hustle and bustle but usually it’s still with a relaxed vibe. It’s one of the oldest settlements in East Africa and makes a fascinating place to absorb the continent’s history. Although there aren’t many defined tourist attractions in the city, one of the must-visit areas is Fort Jesus and the Old Town.

Fort Jesus is a Unesco World Heritage Site and one of eastern Africa’s oldest European buildings. With 2.5 metre (8 ft) thick stone walls, the fortress was built to be indestructible and became the focus of control for many power struggles on the east African coast. Later, the fort became a prison used by the British and was then converted to a museum, which now houses different artifacts to showcase the history of Mombasa and the regional culture.

Samburu, Shaba and Buffalo Springs National Reserves

Just north of Mount Kenya in a more arid part of Kenya, the three national reserves of Samburu, Shaba, and Buffalo Springs all border each other and are often regarded as the same protected area. The area includes woodland, a large amount of bushland, and grassland home to many different African icons, such as zebra, giraffe, bush elephants, oryx, buffalo, Masai lions, leopards, cheetah, and hyena. The rivers are then home to hippos and crocodiles. There are around 400 different birds to find in the area making it a great place for birders and there are even Somali ostriches commonly found within the reserves.

The Shaba reserve is particularly good for fantastic scenery surrounding the Shaba Hill volcano and contains grassland and woodlands. The waterholes here are often visited by zebra and this particular section was the focus of the book and film Born Free and the movie Out of Africa making it a very popular tourist destination. Shaba is a bit greener than the Samburu area and doesn’t see as many giraffes or Grant’s Zebra. You can find warthogs, gazelles, kudu, oryx, and the larger prides of Masai lions, which are the stars of this section. Because of its arid nature, this is some of the best places in Kenya to see cheetah and ostrich.

The wildlife here doesn’t match the impressive nature of southern parks, such as the Masai Mara, Amboseli and Tsavo protected areas but still makes a fascinating visit surrounded by beautiful scenery.

The Shaba National Reserve is located at the eastern side of the total protected area with the Samburu Reserve to the west. Buffalo Springs National Reserve is then at the south west of the area just south of the river. Popularly, all off these sections are often combined under the umbrella of the Samburu protected area and despite being different reserves, you only need to pay one entrance fee to enjoy game drives that cross the sections.

Mombasa Marine National Park

The Mombasa Marine National park is a protected area of coastal water, including the coastal mangroves and Indian Ocean territorial waters. It contains different coral reefs with an abundance of animal life, which covers around 200 km² (49,400 acres). The park is very close to the tourist hubs and makes a fantastic trip for some excellent snorkeling and diving experiences.

This area and other Kenyan reefs are ranked as one of the world’s top dive sites along with the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. The park’s water at the surface is usually warm and stays between 25°C and 31°C adding to its attraction, which combines with the coconut palms, blue waters, and golden sandy beaches. People enjoy a range of activities in the area, including snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, and water skiing.

Visit Nairobi

Kenya’s capital and largest city, Nairobi is the base for many tourists visiting Kenya for their African safari experience on the Masai Mara or other protected area. As the city’s main tourist attractions, there is even the Nairobi National Park within the city boundary, which we will mention next in a bit more detail.

Nairobi was initially established as a rail depot by the British and grew to become the country’s capital. This is now a vibrant and culture-filled city with fantastic restaurants and attractions, including the national museum, orphanages for various animals, the nearby national park, and some fascinating buildings.

For safety concerns, you should have your wits about you in the city as like any city in impoverished areas, crime can be an issue and we recommend that you avoid walking around at night. But if you pay attention to your surroundings and stay sensible, you can have a fantastic few days here before or after your safari.

The Nairobi National Museum is an interesting place to visit to learn about Kenya’s natural and cultural history and there are many different anthropological items on display. You can also visit the museum’s botanical garden and restaurants to enjoy a few hours in the city center.

There are some great shopping areas, such as the Masai market to haggle over different crafts and souvenirs. There are also a few art galleries to visit, cultural centers, tea and coffee houses, and a butterfly house.

A travel blogger who visited Nairbobi is Mark from Migrationology.com .

You can enjoy guided tours of Nairobi as well as the wildlife-rich Nairobi National Park by enjoying a stay at the very comfortable Ololo Safari Lodge.

The Ruins of Gedi

Kenya’s most incredible cultural and historical attraction, the ruins are located in the village of Gedi, which is in turn near the town of Malindi. The ruins are the remains of a Swahili town that thrived sometime between the 13th and 17th centuries.

Mysteriously, there are no records of the town aside from the evidence of its existence unearthed over a ten year period between 1948 and 1958 showing a population of Muslim inhabitants that were involved in world trade. Excavators found a Ming vase from China, a lamp from India, and even beads from Italy. The excavation showed that the town reached around 2500 people, and as dedication to this previously unknown town, a museum was constructed to showcase the artifacts and to pay homage to the inhabitants.

Hidden in the forest and strangely unknown to Portuguese traders at the time, Gedi sits on the coast and backs into the forest. Baobabs and magnificent buttress-rooted trees dot the area and the ruins of the site include a mosque, stone built houses, and a palace. These structures give some indication to the people who inhabited the town. Not only do the buildings give insight into the people, but also the town’s technological advancement for the time. The houses contained flush toilets and the bathrooms had drains with gutters even lining the town’s streets. Wells were used to provide water for the inhabitants and the material to build the houses was sourced from the nearby coral reef.

The Giraffe Center

Another must-visit attraction to see, the center cares for different Rothschild giraffes as part of a breeding program to help restock national parks and aid the conservation of giraffe populations. Happily, the sanctuary has had high success and is now a major tourist attraction in Nairobi.

Thanks to the founders who established the breeding sanctuary back in 1979, the center has provided many breeding pairs of giraffes to several protected areas in Kenya. As well as the breeding pairs, young calves born at the sanctuary are also introduced into the parks.

The main draw of the center for visitors is the raised observation platform where people can feed the giraffes. To add a little diversity, the center is also inhabited by a number of warthogs that live happily with their larger long-necked friends. Visitors can even stay at the Giraffe Manor to enjoy an immersive giraffe-experience for your stay in Nairobi.

The Giraffe center is about 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from Nairobi center and makes the perfect activity if you find yourself in Nairobi for a few days before or after your African safari.

Not only actively involved in Kenya’s conservation programs, the sanctuary also has different education programs for Kenyan schoolchildren as part of the community outreach program. Visitors can hear about the work the center is doing in the auditorium to enjoy talks about giraffe conservation and the center’s various programs, such as the annual environmental competition for local children.

As an additional surprise, the center contains a 95 acre nature sanctuary, which is composed of both Ngong and Ololua forest, including the Gogo River. You can enjoy a trail walk through the forest to see different monkeys, warthogs, and antelope. Of course, the center also includes a tea house with wonderful views of the giraffes to enjoy a light meal and drink.

Some travel bloggers who visited the Giraffe Center are Deepa & Jayant from Wheelsonourfeet.com and Nicola from Travelpennies.com .

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

The Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an example of a successful protected area of community conservation. Located in northern Kenya, the 62,000 acre (250 km2) area can be enjoyed on guided game drives to see a range of wildlife, including lions, zebra, leopards, elephants, cheetah, buffalo, and both white and black rhino. The conservancy’s birdlife is also fantastic for keen bird watchers and you can spot about 350 different species within the conservancy

As well as the game drives, you can also enjoy fascinating wildlife walks in the sanctuary led by our highly trained wildlife guides to spot some fantastic animals and plants. It’s the walking safaris that the conservancy prides itself on.

While out in the conservancy, you can enjoy the wildlife blinds that were set up to improve your wildlife watching and photography opportunities to see elephants, waterbuck, and other animals drinking from the marsh.

Hell’s Gate National Park

Hell’s Gate National Park is famous for its steam geysers and geology. The area also has some fascinating wildlife and is well known for the many great areas to see birds of prey, such as the raptors. You can hike down the gorge to see the hot springs and if you choose to visit from Loldia House, you can enjoy a guided walk with one of the resident naturalist guides.

Just south of Lake Naivasha, Hell’s Gate National Park was named after a narrow passage in the cliffs, which was once a waterway that fed early humans in the Rift Valley.

The protected area is a great place to see spectacular scenery with some incredible natural features. This is also a great place to enjoy a variety of activities, including mountain biking, rock climbing, and visiting the natural hot pools.

The red cliffs and grasslands provide a fantastic backdrop while you walk among the different wildlife, such as herds of zebra, antelope, and gazelles. Although the large predators here are rarely seen, some visitors do get lucky and you have chance opportunities to see lions, leopards, and cheetah. In addition to the large mammals, there are around 100 different birds you can see in Hell’s Gate including the rare bearded vulture, as the reserve provides one of the country’s remaining strongholds for the species.

The park also contains the Olkaria Geothermal Plant, which is hoped to provide around half of the country’s energy needs by sustainable energy. The plant doesn’t affect the area’s beauty and the minimal environmental impact will be considerably outweighed by saving the country needing more damaging energy sources.

Haller Park

Located in Mombasa on Kenya’s coastline, Haller Park was a chance foundation that started when Dr. Rene Haller noticed some millipedes feeding on dry casuarina needles in a quarry area. He decided to introduce hundreds of these red legged millipedes with the idea that they may re-engineer the forest.

Haller Park now provides homes for a variety of animals and plants, but also functions as a relaxation destination for visitors. It took around 10 years before significant changes occurred and after 20 years the humus layer had a depth of 10 cm.

The animals that seem to have taken particularly well in the newly reformed habitat and have been playing important roles in succession are different birds, insects, and vervet monkeys. Some larger mammals were then introduced by Haller to provide different functions, such as eland and oryx.

The park is a fantastic place to visit for a glimpse at the potential of conservation and restoration, but also is popular with animal lovers in its own right. The park is now home to giraffes, hippos, Cape buffalo, zebra, and over 160 different birds. The park reached fame thanks to a 130 year old tortoise named Mzee adopting an orphaned hippopotamus named Owen.

The birds in the park include pelicans, cranes, and weaver birds. There are areas to ride your bicycle and walking trails that wind through the different gardens, reptile park, crocodile pens, and butterfly house.

Arabuko Sokoke National Park

The Arabuko Sokoke National Park is a coastal protected area of forest about 100 km north of Mombasa and contains a lot of endemic species, including different mammals, birds, and plants. The forest here is regarded as one of the best preserved in the country and protects a few different forest types, which are each home to their different communities.

The endemic species that live in the park include a number of birds such as the Sokoke pipit, Amani sunbird, and spotted ground thrush. There are also different shrews and duiker. As well as these endemic animals, you can find elephants, baboons, vervet monkeys, and others.

The Arabuko-Sokoke Forest itself extends beyond the park and is the largest remaining tract of native coastal forest in East Africa. You can access the area from the small town of Watamu, which is just 10 km from the forest. You can enjoy a visitor information center at the Gede Forest Station and will then have access to a number of trails around the forest.

Lake Naivasha

Just northwest of Nairobi and southeast of Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha is the highest lake in the Great Rift Valley and offers a fantastic place to observe some of the 400 different birds in the region. You can spot various animals on game drives and river cruises, such as the hippos and different birds.

Enjoy cruises on the lake to spot cormorants, pelicans, herons, kingfishers, and eagles. The other birds include jacanas, egrets, bee-eaters, and storks. You will then see the millions of greater and lesser flamingos at the lake edges.

With a surface area of 139 km², when standing on one side of the lake you cannot even see the other other. The name Naivasha is derived from a word in the the Maasai language meaning rough water as sudden storms can occur on the lake.

In addition to being a great lake for tourists, this is the only economically important inland lake in Kenya with horticulture and floriculture businesses. Because it’s such a great area for these industries, the balance is starting to be thrown. Kenya supplies a lot of the flowers used by Europe and much of this industry is around the lake. There are some changes to the lake, which have started to mobilize conversation groups. For instance, the flamingos should really only visit salt lakes such as the nearby Lake Nakuru and their presence indicates some major changes.

Visit Lamu Old Town

Nestled on the enchanting island of Lamu, off the East African coast, lies a treasure that has stood the test of time — Lamu Old Town. This remarkable enclave is a living testament to the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. As the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa, Lamu Old Town exudes an air of authenticity that transports visitors to a bygone era.

The town’s architecture, built with the resilient coral stone and mangrove timber, is a harmonious blend of simplicity and sophistication. Its structural forms are adorned with inner courtyards, intricate verandas, and ornate wooden doors, each telling a story of craftsmanship and artistry. Lamu’s legacy stretches back centuries, having played a pivotal role in trade, culture, and education. Its legacy as a center of Islamic and Swahili studies is unrivaled, hosting renowned religious festivals and cultural gatherings since the 19th century.

Lamu’s allure is more than its stunning architecture and history—it’s the convergence of cultures that have woven together over 700 years. The town’s streets, a labyrinthine web, echo Arab traditions of urban development, leading explorers through an intricate tapestry of alleys and passages. As you approach from the sea, the stone buildings along the waterfront create a captivating tableau, punctuated by arched arcades and open verandas.

Bomas of Kenya

Clearly a very tourist-focused affair but still an enjoyable day out, the attraction offers a miniature version of Kenya. The bomas are located just 10 km from Nairobi center close to the famous Nairobi National Park. You will enjoy a glimpse of different Kenyan cultures from all across the country to give you a grounding in the country’s identity. Because of this, it’s a must-visit attraction for any visitor.

The Bomas of Kenya show the country’s culture through the different group’s music, dances, crafts and ways they live. The word ‘bomas’ itself is a Swahili word for home and each ‘bomas’ shows the culture of a particular traditional group. The houses themselves are styled in a traditional African manner in an ancestral fashion.

See the items and houses on display themselves, but also the shows of traditional dances and acrobatic displays. These are shown each day at certain times, which differ between weekdays and weekends.

Located near the main gate of Nairobi National Park, the dances and shows are adapted from the 16 major tribal groups that live across Kenya, including Embu drumming, Kalenjin warrior dances, and Swahili taarab music.

The area was founded by the Kenyan government as a way to preserve and promote ethnic identities, while also providing a tourist attraction as a way to educate visitors about Kenya’s cultural identity.

Diani Beach

Diani Beach is Kenya’s main beach destination and is about 30 kilometres (19 miles) south of Mombasa. The beach itself is 10 kilometres (6 miles) long and the beach waters are perfect for paddling.

The water is crystal clear, warm, shallow and turquoise blue with palm trees and other vegetation dotting the coast. The sand itself is then soft and white creating the postcard-perfect beach everyone dreams of. The beach itself is the main attraction and its white sands are popular for relaxation and also various activities, such as kite boarding. The beach is very attractive for surfers and you can also explore the coral reefs, which are only 10 minutes by boat away. For land-based activities, you can enjoy spotting the colobus monkeys in the nearby forests.

Along the coast you can find comfortable hotels, top shopping centers, and high-class restaurants. The area attracts a diverse crowd and has accommodation, restaurants, and things to do to suit each visitor. Enjoy some of the best hotels in Kenya with fantastic ocean views or choose a budget backpacking tree house to enjoy a day of kitesurfing and other activities.

The Jambo Kenya Deluxe (Nairobi – Mombasa)

The train journey connecting Nairobi and Mombasa is one of the world’s best journeys by rail. Step back into the 1950s as you board the train to enjoy classical comfort on a historical journey. Enjoy a three-course dinner service and a cooked breakfast on the overnight train journey as you pass through some fantastic areas of Kenya. See impressive scenery, enjoy passing local communities to see normal Kenyan life, and as the main attraction, pass through the middle of the impressive Tsavo National Park to spot different iconic African wildlife.

Mount Kenya

The mountain that named a country, Mount Kenya is Kenya’s highest mountain and the second largest in Africa after Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro. The mountain is about 150 kilometers northwest of Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city. Over 10,000 people visit the park each year to see the site.

The mountain formed around 3 million years ago and the highest peak is named Batian at 5,199 meters high. Around 715 km2 around the mountain has been protected in the UNESCO World Heritage listed Mount Kenya National Park.

The reason for the protection was to conserve the area’s biodiversity, increase tourism to the area, and to protect the scenic beauty of the mountain and surrounding habitats.

There are a total of three major peaks in the central area and 12 remaining glaciers lay on the mountains, which are all receding. The habitats included in the park contain a number of animals, such as elephants, buffalo, zebra, and rhino.

Kenyan food is delicious and as usual with African cuisine usually means barbecued meat, but there are diversity of dishes with a range of flavors. The staple food for many Kenyans living inland is a carbohydrate rich cornmeal bread called ugali, which is often served with a stew or vegetables. However, there are a range of others flavors, snacks, and dishes on offers.

Visit Lake Bogoria

A very scenic and attractive area to visit, Lake Bogoria is a salt lake in a volcanic region of Kenya and is a little south of the Rift Valley. Because of the water, the lake is very attractive for lesser flamingos and the area was turned into the Lake Bogoria National Reserve. Here you will find one of the world’s largest populations of lesser flamingos and it makes an excellent day trip.

The lake is quite shallow and is famous for its hot springs and geysers due to its location in a volcanic area. The geysers erupt to about 5 meters high making for quite a spectacle and at one location around the lake you can find 10 in the same area, which means the lake is home to the highest concentration of true geysers in the whole of Africa.

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Discover Kenya: 35 Best Tourist Places To Visit in Kenya 2024

• 26 minute read

• September 17, 2023

35 Best Places to Visit In Kenya

About Kenya Tourism and Its Overview

Kenya’s tourism industry is a vibrant tapestry of natural wonders, cultural diversity, and thrilling adventures. Situated in East Africa and graced with a breathtaking coastline along the Indian Ocean, Kenya is a land of contrasts and spectacular landscapes. From the vast savannahs and majestic mountains to the deep valleys of the Great Rift, Kenya’s geography is nothing short of remarkable.

One of the primary draws for tourists is Kenya’s remarkable wildlife. The country is synonymous with thrilling safari experiences, where travelers can encounter the famed “Big Five” – lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and rhinoceros – in their natural habitat. The Maasai Mara Reserve, with its annual wildebeest migrations, and Amboseli National Park, offering stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro in neighboring Tanzania, are just a glimpse of the incredible wildlife experiences Kenya has to offer.

Kenya’s cultural richness is another jewel in its tourism crown. The nation is home to numerous ethnic groups, each with its own vibrant traditions and customs. Visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Kenyan culture, whether by engaging with local communities, attending colorful cultural festivals, or discovering the beauty of traditional art, music, and dance.

Adventure enthusiasts find Kenya to be an exhilarating playground. Hot air ballooning over the savannah, hiking expeditions up Mount Kenya, or exploring the depths of the Great Rift Valley are just a few of the heart-pounding activities that await the daring traveler.

So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable journey filled with adventure, wildlife, and cultural richness, Kenya should be at the top of your travel list.

Also, if you are looking best hotels and Homestay deals then we recommend booking your hotels and homestay with  priceline.com

 1. Nairobi

Nairobi, the capital and largest city of Kenya, is a dynamic urban center uniquely nestled on the edge of the Great Rift Valley. This juxtaposition allows visitors to enjoy both the conveniences of a modern city and the breathtaking views of the natural world. The city has a vibrant atmosphere with a mix of cultures and experiences.

How to Reach There: Nairobi is well-connected internationally through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, making it easily accessible by air for travelers from around the globe. For local transportation, visitors can choose from buses, matatus (shared minivans), or taxis.

Place Known for: Nairobi is renowned for several attractions, including the Nairobi National Park, a remarkable wildlife sanctuary located just a short drive from the city center. It’s a place where you can spot lions, giraffes, and rhinos against the backdrop of the city skyline. Other notable destinations include the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where you can get up close with orphaned elephants, and the Giraffe Centre, home to endangered Rothschild giraffes.

Safety Tips: While Nairobi is generally safe, like any major city, visitors should exercise caution in crowded areas and avoid walking alone at night. It’s advisable to keep a close eye on your belongings and stay informed about local safety conditions.

Mombasa, often referred to as Kenya’s coastal jewel, offers a different charm from Nairobi. Located on the shores of the Indian Ocean, it boasts pristine beaches, a rich historical heritage, and a bustling port. The city seamlessly combines the influences of various cultures, including Arab, Swahili, and European.

How to Reach There: Moi International Airport serves as the gateway to Mombasa for international travelers. If you prefer a scenic journey, you can also reach Mombasa by road from Nairobi, enjoying the picturesque landscapes along the way.

Place Known for: Mombasa is famous for its stunning beaches, where you can relax, swim, and engage in water sports. Fort Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to the city’s historical significance. Old Town, with its Swahili architecture and narrow winding streets, offers a glimpse into the past. Don’t miss exploring vibrant markets like Kongowea Market, where you can immerse yourself in local culture.

Safety Tips: While enjoying Mombasa’s beaches, be cautious of beach touts offering various services. As with any tourist destination, it’s wise to safeguard your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings.

Kisumu, situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Victoria, is known for its natural beauty and vibrant cultural scene. It’s the third-largest city in Kenya and serves as the capital of Kisumu County.

How to Reach There: Kisumu International Airport provides convenient access to the city by air. If you prefer overland travel, you can reach Kisumu by road from Nairobi, offering a scenic drive through Kenya’s landscapes.

Place Known for: Kisumu is renowned for Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest freshwater lake. While swimming in the lake isn’t advisable due to its strong currents, you can explore other attractions like the Impala Sanctuary, which hosts various wildlife species. The city also comes alive with cultural festivals like the Luo Festival, where you can experience the local culture.

Safety Tips: When visiting Lake Victoria, it’s essential to heed safety warnings about swimming due to the lake’s unpredictable currents. Always prioritize your safety when near water bodies.

Nakuru, a town in the Rift Valley, is famous for Lake Nakuru, known for its flocks of flamingos and diverse wildlife. It’s a nature lover’s paradise and a must-visit for those seeking unique wildlife experiences.

How to Reach There: Nakuru is easily accessible by road from Nairobi, making it a popular destination for day trips or longer stays.

Place Known for: Nakuru’s fame is anchored in Lake Nakuru National Park, a protected area that hosts a variety of wildlife, including rhinos, lions, and numerous bird species. The lake’s pink shoreline, caused by the thousands of flamingos that inhabit it, is a sight to behold. Additionally, Menengai Crater, a dormant volcano, offers hiking opportunities and panoramic views of the surrounding region.

Safety Tips: When visiting Lake Nakuru National Park, it’s crucial to follow park rules, stay inside your vehicle while observing wildlife, and respect the natural environment. Wildlife encounters should be approached with caution and from a safe distance.

Eldoret, often referred to as the “City of Champions,” is a bustling town situated in the Uasin Gishu County of Kenya. This city has earned its nickname due to its association with world-class long-distance runners who have achieved international acclaim.

How to Reach There: Eldoret International Airport serves the region, offering air connectivity. If you prefer ground travel, Eldoret is well-connected by road from Nairobi and other major cities in Kenya.

Place Known for: Eldoret’s claim to fame lies in its role as the training ground for many renowned Kenyan athletes who have dominated long-distance running events globally. It’s a city that takes pride in its athletic heritage. Additionally, Eldoret is an agricultural hub, known for its maize and wheat farming.

Safety Tips: Eldoret is generally considered safe for travelers. However, as with any urban area, it’s advisable to take typical precautions in crowded places and remain vigilant about your personal belongings.

Thika is a town in Kenya known for its unique blend of agriculture, particularly pineapple farming, and natural beauty. It’s located approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) from Nairobi, making it a popular day trip destination.

Thika is often referred to as the “Pineapple City” due to the abundance of pineapple farms in the region. The fertile soils and favorable climate make it an ideal location for pineapple cultivation. Visitors to Thika can explore these pineapple farms, where they can witness the various stages of pineapple cultivation, from planting to harvesting.

How to Reach There : Thika is easily accessible from Nairobi by road, and the journey typically takes around one hour, depending on traffic conditions. You can take a matatu (shared minibus) or hire a taxi to get to Thika.

Place Known for : Thika is famous for Thika Falls, a spectacular waterfall located on the Chania River. Thika Falls is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a serene environment for picnics and relaxation. It’s an excellent place for nature lovers and photographers to capture the beauty of the Kenyan landscape.

Safety Tips :

• When visiting Thika Falls, it’s essential to exercise caution and stay within designated safe areas, as the area can be slippery.
• Respect local customs and the environment by disposing of trash properly and avoiding any harm to the natural surroundings.

Meru is a town located in eastern Kenya and is known for its rich cultural heritage and proximity to Meru National Park, a significant wildlife conservation area. It’s a diverse region that offers a unique blend of wildlife and culture.

Meru Town is the gateway to Meru National Park, one of Kenya’s less crowded but incredibly diverse national parks. The park is known for its abundant wildlife, including elephants, leopards, lions, and various bird species. Visitors can embark on thrilling safaris and game drives to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

How to Reach There : Meru can be reached by road from Nairobi and other major Kenyan cities. Meru National Airport also serves the region, providing domestic flight options for travelers.

Place Known for Meru National Park is the primary attraction in the region. Apart from the wildlife, the park is famous for its scenic landscapes, including rivers, forests, and diverse vegetation. The park offers a unique and less crowded safari experience compared to some of the more famous parks in Kenya.

• While on a safari in Meru National Park, it’s crucial to follow the guidelines provided by your safari guide or park authorities. Maintain a safe distance from wild animals for your safety and theirs.
• Respect the local culture and traditions of the Meru people when interacting with local communities.

8. Kakamega

Kakamega is a region in western Kenya known for its unique and lush Kakamega Forest. This forest is one of the last remnants of tropical rainforest in Kenya, making it a significant ecological and biodiversity hotspot.

Kakamega Forest is a natural treasure, covering approximately 238 square kilometers (92 square miles). It’s characterized by towering trees, thick undergrowth, and a dense canopy. The forest is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including primates like colobus monkeys, over 300 bird species, and various insects and butterflies.

How to Reach There : Kakamega can be reached by road from Nairobi and other major cities. The town of Kakamega serves as a gateway to the forest.

Place Known for : Kakamega Forest is famous for its biodiversity and the opportunity to explore a tropical rainforest in Kenya. Visitors can embark on guided nature walks and birdwatching tours within the forest to witness its natural beauty up close. It’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts and researchers interested in tropical ecosystems.

• When exploring Kakamega Forest, it’s advisable to go with an experienced guide who knows the trails and can provide insights into the forest’s biodiversity.
• Respect the forest’s delicate ecosystem by not disturbing plants and animals and avoiding littering.

Kitale is a charming town situated in Kenya’s Rift Valley region, and it’s known for its agriculture, scenic landscapes, and a taste of rural Kenyan life. It’s surrounded by picturesque farms and greenery, making it a tranquil destination.

Kitale’s primary claim to fame is its fertile farmlands, where various crops such as maize, sugarcane, and wheat are cultivated. The region’s favorable climate and rich soils contribute to its agricultural productivity. Visitors to Kitale can explore these farms, interact with local farmers, and learn about agricultural practices in Kenya.

How to Reach There : Kitale is accessible by road from Nairobi and other major cities. Kitale Airport also serves the region with domestic flights.

Place Known for : Kitale is renowned for its scenic landscapes, characterized by rolling hills, tea plantations, and the backdrop of Mount Elgon. Mount Elgon, an extinct volcano, offers opportunities for trekking and hiking, and it’s a popular destination for adventure seekers.

• When hiking on Mount Elgon or exploring the region’s agricultural areas, it’s advisable to have a local guide who knows the terrain well.
• Respect the environment and local customs when interacting with the community.

Nyeri is a town located at the base of Mount Kenya, Kenya’s highest mountain. It’s famous for its tea and coffee farming, lush landscapes, and rich colonial history.

Nyeri’s economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, with tea and coffee being the primary cash crops. Visitors to Nyeri can explore the vast tea and coffee plantations, where they can witness the cultivation and processing of these globally renowned products. The region’s stunning greenery and scenic beauty make it a delightful place to visit.

How to Reach There : Nyeri is accessible by road from Nairobi and other major Kenyan cities. Nyeri also has an airstrip, making it accessible by air.

Place Known for : Mount Kenya National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the standout attractions near Nyeri. The park is known for its diverse ecosystems, including glaciers, bamboo forests, and diverse wildlife like buffaloes, elephants, and various bird species. Nyeri also has historical sites associated with the Mau Mau uprising, offering insights into Kenya’s struggle for independence.

• When hiking on Mount Kenya, it’s crucial to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. It’s advisable to hire an experienced guide and have suitable gear for trekking.
• When visiting historical sites, be respectful of their significance and follow any guidelines provided.

11. Kericho

Kericho is a picturesque town located in the highlands of western Kenya, and it’s often referred to as the “Tea Capital of Kenya.” This region is known for its lush tea plantations and agriculture.

Kericho’s rolling hills are covered in vibrant green tea bushes, creating a stunning landscape. The tea estates here produce some of Kenya’s finest tea, which is exported worldwide. Visitors to Kericho can tour the tea plantations, learn about the tea-making process, and even enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea.

How to Reach There : Kericho is accessible by road from Nairobi and other major Kenyan cities. It’s a scenic drive through the Rift Valley region.

Place Known for : Apart from tea plantations, Kericho offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The town’s elevation provides a cooler climate compared to other lowland areas in Kenya, making it a pleasant destination for those seeking a break from the heat.

Safety Tips : When touring tea plantations, follow the guidelines provided by the estate staff. Be cautious while walking on uneven terrain in the plantations.

12. Naivasha

Naivasha is a beautiful town located near Lake Naivasha, one of Kenya’s freshwater lakes. It’s known for its abundant wildlife, horticulture, and stunning landscapes.

Lake Naivasha is the highlight of this region, offering opportunities for boat safaris to spot hippos, various bird species, and other wildlife. The lake’s shores are lined with flower farms, showcasing the region’s vibrant horticultural industry. Visitors can take leisurely walks around the lake and explore the nearby Hell’s Gate National Park, known for its dramatic landscapes and hiking trails.

How to Reach There : Naivasha is easily accessible by road from Nairobi and other major cities. It’s approximately a two-hour drive from Nairobi.

Place Known for : Lake Naivasha is famous for its rich birdlife, including African fish eagles, pelicans, and cormorants. The nearby Crescent Island Game Park provides a unique experience where you can walk among wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests.

• When taking a boat safari on Lake Naivasha, follow the safety instructions provided by your guide. Keep a safe distance from hippos, which can be dangerous.
• While hiking in Hell’s Gate National Park, stay on designated trails and carry enough water and supplies.

13. Malindi

Malindi is a coastal town situated along the Indian Ocean, making it a popular beach destination in Kenya. It’s known for its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and historical sites.

Malindi’s beaches are its main attraction. The soft, sandy shores and crystal-clear waters offer excellent opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The town also has a rich history, with landmarks like the Vasco da Gama Pillar, a testament to its Portuguese colonial past.

How to Reach There : Malindi has its airport, Malindi Airport, with domestic flight options. It’s also accessible by road from Mombasa and other coastal towns.

Place Known for : Malindi is famous for its vibrant marine life and coral reefs. Visitors can go snorkeling and diving to explore the underwater world teeming with colorful fish, coral formations, and even dolphins. The Malindi Marine National Park is a protected area that conserves the marine ecosystem.

• When engaging in water activities like snorkeling and diving, ensure you have proper gear and follow safety guidelines provided by tour operators.
• Respect the marine environment by not touching or damaging coral reefs.

Lamu is an island paradise located in the Indian Ocean and is part of the Lamu Archipelago. It’s renowned for its historic town, Swahili culture, and pristine beaches.

Lamu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a well-preserved Swahili settlement that dates back to the 14th century. Its narrow, winding streets, coral stone buildings, and intricate woodwork reflect centuries of history and culture. The island’s beaches are untouched and offer a tranquil escape.

How to Reach There : Lamu is accessible by domestic flights to Lamu Airport or by boat from Mombasa and other coastal towns. The absence of cars on the island gives it a unique charm, with donkeys being the primary mode of transportation.

Place Known for : Lamu is famous for its rich Swahili culture, showcased in its architecture, music, and festivals. The island hosts the Lamu Cultural Festival, a vibrant celebration of Swahili traditions, every year. The beaches on Lamu, such as Shela Beach, are ideal for relaxation and water sports.

• While exploring Lamu Town, be mindful of the narrow streets and respect the privacy of local residents.
• When enjoying water activities, ensure you have life jackets and necessary safety equipment.

Embu is a town located in central Kenya and is known for its agricultural activities and scenic beauty. It’s nestled amid the beautiful landscapes of the Mount Kenya region.

Agriculture is the primary livelihood in Embu, with coffee and tea farming being prominent. Visitors to Embu can tour coffee and tea estates, gaining insights into the production processes. The region’s rolling hills and lush greenery make it a serene destination for nature lovers.

How to Reach There : Embu is accessible by road from Nairobi and other major cities. It’s approximately a three-hour drive from Nairobi.

Place Known for : Embu is known for its picturesque scenery, including tea and coffee plantations, forests, and rivers. The Chuka Falls, located near Embu, are a natural attraction worth visiting. The falls cascade down a rocky gorge, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

• When exploring natural attractions like Chuka Falls, adhere to safety guidelines and avoid venturing into prohibited areas.
• When visiting agricultural estates, respect the property and follow any instructions provided by the staff.

Isiolo is a town located in northern Kenya, often referred to as the “Gateway to Northern Kenya.” It’s known for its unique position as a meeting point of different cultures, wildlife, and natural beauty.

Isiolo serves as a starting point for safaris into the northern frontier of Kenya. The region is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, zebras, and giraffes. Visitors can experience the traditional culture of the Samburu and Borana people who inhabit the area.

How to Reach There : Isiolo is accessible by road from Nairobi and other major cities. The town also has an airport, Isiolo Airport, with domestic flight connections.

Place Known for : Isiolo is famous for its wildlife safaris, with several game reserves and conservancies in the vicinity. Buffalo Springs National Reserve and Shaba National Reserve are popular destinations for spotting wildlife. The town itself offers a glimpse into the unique culture of the northern Kenyan tribes.

• When on a wildlife safari, adhere to the instructions of your safari guide for your safety and the protection of the animals.
• When interacting with local communities, be respectful of their traditions and customs.

17. Bungoma

Bungoma is a town known for its scenic landscapes and rich agricultural activities. It’s located in western Kenya and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

The region surrounding Bungoma is characterized by rolling hills, lush farmlands, and picturesque scenery. Agriculture, including maize and sugarcane farming, is the backbone of the local economy. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rural life of Kenya, exploring farms and enjoying the serene landscapes.

How to Reach There : Bungoma is accessible by road from major Kenyan cities like Nairobi and Kisumu.

Place Known for : Bungoma is primarily known for its beautiful natural surroundings and the opportunity it provides for a rural Kenyan experience. Travelers can witness the daily life of local farmers and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

Safety Tips : While exploring the countryside, be cautious on uneven terrain and respect the privacy of local residents.

18. Nanyuki

Nanyuki is a town located at the foothills of Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak. It’s known for its proximity to the mountain, its status as a military base, and its abundant wildlife.

Nanyuki is often the starting point for expeditions to Mount Kenya. The town itself is nestled amid breathtaking landscapes, with views of the mountain. It’s also home to a British Army training base. Nearby, visitors can explore the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, known for its rhino sanctuary and Big Five game viewing.

How to Reach There : Nanyuki is accessible by road from Nairobi and other major towns. It’s approximately a four-hour drive from Nairobi.

Place Known for : Nanyuki is famous for its proximity to Mount Kenya, making it a gateway for trekkers and climbers. The town offers various outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife safaris, and birdwatching.

• When embarking on mountain expeditions, ensure you have proper gear, guides, and acclimatize to the altitude.
• While visiting wildlife areas, follow safety guidelines and maintain a safe distance from wild animals.

Narok is a town located near the renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve, making it a gateway to one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. It’s known for its wildlife and cultural experiences.

Maasai Mara is famous for its annual wildebeest migration, a natural spectacle where millions of wildebeests and zebras cross the Mara River. Narok town serves as a starting point for safaris to the reserve. Additionally, Narok offers opportunities to experience the vibrant Maasai culture.

How to Reach There : Narok is accessible by road from Nairobi and other major cities. It’s approximately a four-hour drive from Nairobi to the Maasai Mara.

Place Known for : Narok is renowned for its connection to the Maasai Mara, which is famous for its incredible wildlife sightings, including lions, elephants, cheetahs, and more. Visitors can also engage in cultural experiences, such as visiting Maasai villages and witnessing traditional dances.

• When on a safari in Maasai Mara, follow your guide’s instructions for a safe and respectful wildlife viewing experience.
• When interacting with the Maasai community, be culturally sensitive and seek permission before taking photos.

20. Machakos

Machakos is a town located in southeastern Kenya and is known for its scenic beauty and the People’s Park, a vibrant urban recreational space.

The town is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, valleys, and unique rock formations. Machakos is an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. The People’s Park, situated in the town center, offers a variety of recreational activities.

How to Reach There : Machakos is accessible by road from Nairobi, and it’s approximately an hour’s drive from the capital city.

Place Known for : Machakos is known for its scenic beauty, and the People’s Park is a central attraction. The park features well-manicured gardens, a man-made lake, and walking trails. It’s a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.

Safety Tips : When visiting People’s Park, follow park regulations and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

21. Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills is a region known for its tea and coffee farming, scenic views, and cool climate. It’s located in the Rift Valley highlands of western Kenya.

The lush greenery of Nandi Hills is dominated by tea and coffee plantations. The area’s high altitude provides a temperate climate, making it suitable for these crops. Visitors can tour the estates, sample freshly brewed tea, and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

How to Reach There : Nandi Hills is accessible by road from major Kenyan cities like Nairobi and Eldoret.

Place Known for : Nandi Hills is renowned for its tea and coffee farming. The estates here produce some of Kenya’s finest tea leaves and coffee beans. The region’s scenery, with rolling hills and misty mornings, offers a serene atmosphere for relaxation.

Safety Tips : When touring tea and coffee estates, follow the guidelines provided by the estate staff. Be cautious while walking on uneven terrain in the plantations.

22. Homa Bay

Homa Bay is a town situated on the shores of Lake Victoria, the largest freshwater lake in Africa. It’s known for its fishing industry, cultural heritage, and scenic beauty.

Lake Victoria is the lifeblood of Homa Bay, supporting the local fishing communities. Visitors can experience traditional fishing methods and enjoy freshly caught fish dishes. The town also has a rich cultural heritage, with the Suba people being one of the prominent ethnic groups.

How to Reach There : Homa Bay is accessible by road from Nairobi and other major Kenyan cities. It’s approximately a six-hour drive from Nairobi.

Place Known for : Homa Bay is famous for its connection to Lake Victoria, offering fishing excursions and boat rides. The town also provides cultural experiences where you can learn about the Suba traditions and history.

• When taking part in fishing activities, ensure you have proper equipment and follow safety instructions provided by local fishermen.
• Respect the local culture and seek permission when photographing or interacting with community members.

Kiambu is a county located just north of Nairobi, Kenya’s capital. It is known for its rich agriculture, the Kiambu Forest, and its vibrant culture.

Kiambu’s fertile land is ideal for agriculture, and it’s famous for producing a variety of crops, including tea, coffee, and bananas. The Kiambu Forest offers a lush green escape, perfect for nature lovers. The county also has a vibrant cultural scene with traditional music and dance performances.

How to Reach There : Kiambu is easily accessible from Nairobi by road, and it’s just a short drive away from the capital.

Place Known for : Kiambu’s agricultural significance is well-known, and it’s a great place to learn about Kenya’s farming practices. The Kiambu Forest is an excellent destination for hiking and birdwatching, providing a serene natural environment.

• When exploring the Kiambu Forest, wear appropriate hiking gear and carry essentials like water and insect repellent.

24. Karatina

Karatina is a town situated in central Kenya and is renowned for agriculture, particularly coffee farming.

Karatina and the surrounding areas are major coffee-producing regions in Kenya. Coffee enthusiasts can visit local coffee farms to learn about the cultivation and processing of coffee beans. The town itself offers a taste of Kenyan rural life and hospitality.

How to Reach There : Karatina is accessible by road from Nairobi and other major towns in central Kenya.

Place Known for : Karatina is famous for its coffee farms and their contribution to Kenya’s coffee industry. Visitors can tour coffee estates, participate in coffee-tasting sessions, and purchase freshly roasted beans.

Safety Tips : When visiting coffee farms, respect the property and follow the instructions of the farm owners or guides.

25. Voi Town

Voi is a town located at the entrance to Tsavo National Park, one of Kenya’s largest and most iconic wildlife reserves. It is known for its proximity to wildlife and natural beauty.

Voi serves as a gateway to Tsavo National Park, and its surroundings are teeming with diverse wildlife. Visitors can embark on safaris to witness the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) and other animals in their natural habitat.

How to Reach There : Voi is accessible by road and rail from Nairobi and Mombasa. It’s approximately a four-hour drive from Nairobi.

Place Known for : Voi is famous for its connection to Tsavo National Park, offering incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. The town also boasts scenic landscapes, including the Taita Hills.

• When on a safari in Tsavo National Park, follow your guide’s instructions for a safe and respectful wildlife viewing experience.
• Stay within designated areas and adhere to park regulations.

26. Murang’a

Murang’a County is located in central Kenya and is known for its agriculture, particularly tea and coffee farming, and its scenic landscapes.

The county is characterized by lush green tea and coffee estates that stretch as far as the eye can see. It offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Visitors can tour the tea and coffee plantations, learning about the cultivation and processing of these famous Kenyan exports.

How to Reach There : Murang’a is accessible by road from Nairobi and other major towns in central Kenya.

Place Known for : Murang’a is famous for its tea and coffee farming, providing a glimpse into the agricultural practices that contribute to Kenya’s reputation as a top coffee and tea producer. The county’s scenic beauty is an added attraction.

27. Garissa

Garissa is a town located along the Tana River in northeastern Kenya. It is known for its connection to the Tana River, wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.

Garissa is situated in a semi-arid region, and the Tana River plays a crucial role in sustaining the local communities. Visitors can explore the riverbanks, enjoy boat rides, and observe the diverse birdlife. The town is also home to various ethnic groups, each with its unique traditions.

How to Reach There : Garissa is accessible by road from Nairobi and other towns in eastern Kenya. It’s approximately a seven-hour drive from Nairobi.

Place Known for : Garissa is famous for its connection to the Tana River, offering opportunities for river-based activities and birdwatching. It also provides insights into the diverse cultures of northeastern Kenya.

• When participating in river activities, use life jackets and follow safety instructions provided by local guides.
• Show respect for the local culture and traditions when interacting with residents.

28. Kerugoya

Kerugoya is a picturesque town located in Kirinyaga County, central Kenya. It is renowned for its agricultural activities and scenic beauty.

Nestled amidst rolling hills and lush landscapes, Kerugoya is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The town is surrounded by tea and coffee plantations, adding to its natural charm.

How to Reach There : Kerugoya is accessible by road from Nairobi and other major towns in central Kenya.

Place Known for : Kerugoya’s primary claim to fame is its agricultural significance, particularly in coffee farming. Visitors can explore the scenic beauty of the region, take leisurely walks through tea estates, and enjoy the tranquil environment.

Safety Tips : When visiting agricultural areas, it’s essential to respect the property and follow any guidelines provided by estate staff.

Webuye is a town in western Kenya known for its Pan Paper Mills and its role in agriculture.

Webuye’s industrial landscape revolves around the Pan Paper Mills, which is a vital contributor to the local economy. The town also has a strong presence in agriculture, with farms cultivating a variety of crops.

How to Reach There : Webuye is accessible by road from Nairobi and other major towns in western Kenya.

Place Known for : Webuye is famous for the Pan Paper Mills, representing the industrial sector in Kenya. While it may not be a traditional tourist destination, it provides insights into the country’s industrial and agricultural sectors.

• When visiting industrial areas like the Pan Paper Mills, it’s essential to adhere to safety regulations and guidelines provided by the facility’s management.
• Show respect for the local communities and their way of life.

Ruiru is a bustling town situated along Thika Road and is known for its agricultural activities and the Thika Road Mall.

Located along one of Kenya’s major highways, Ruiru is a transportation hub that connects Nairobi to other parts of the country. The town is surrounded by farmlands where various crops are cultivated. Additionally, the Thika Road Mall offers shopping and entertainment options for visitors.

How to Reach There : Ruiru is easily accessible by road, especially from Nairobi and other towns in central Kenya.

Place Known for : Ruiru is renowned for its agricultural activities, reflecting Kenya’s role as a producer of crops like maize, beans, and vegetables. The Thika Road Mall is a popular shopping and leisure destination in the area.

• When visiting agricultural areas, it’s essential to respect the property and follow any guidelines provided by local farmers or guides.
• When visiting malls, exercise standard safety precautions, such as securing your belongings and being aware of your surroundings.

Kilifi is a coastal town located along the shores of the Indian Ocean. It is known for its stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and historical sites.

Kilifi is a tropical paradise, boasting pristine white-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. The town also holds historical significance, with ancient ruins and Swahili architecture offering insights into Kenya’s coastal heritage.

How to Reach There : Kilifi is easily accessible by road from Mombasa, Nairobi, and other major cities. It’s a sought-after destination for those seeking a tranquil beachside escape.

Place Known for : Kilifi is famous for its beautiful beaches, where visitors can indulge in sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports. The town’s historical sites, such as the Gede Ruins and Jumba la Mtwana, add cultural depth to the experience.

Safety Tips : When swimming or engaging in water activities, pay attention to tides and currents. Always follow safety guidelines provided by local authorities.

Bomet is a town located in southwestern Kenya, known for its agriculture, especially tea farming, and its scenic landscapes.

Bomet County is renowned for its lush tea plantations that cover the rolling hills. The region’s picturesque beauty and favorable climate make it an attractive destination for nature enthusiasts.

How to Reach There : Bomet is accessible by road from Nairobi and other towns in western Kenya.

Place Known for : Bomet is famous for its tea farming, offering opportunities for tea plantation tours and tasting sessions. The town’s scenic vistas and cool climate provide a refreshing break from urban life.

• When visiting tea plantations, respect the property and follow any guidelines provided by estate staff.
• Be cautious when walking on uneven terrain in the hilly tea estates.

Kitui is a town located in eastern Kenya, known for its proximity to Chyulu Hills and its rich cultural heritage.

Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of eastern Kenya, Kitui offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. The town is surrounded by rolling hills, making it an ideal destination for hiking and nature enthusiasts.

How to Reach There : Kitui is accessible by road from Nairobi and other major towns in eastern Kenya.

Place Known for : Kitui’s primary attraction is its proximity to Chyulu Hills, a volcanic mountain range known for its unique landscapes and diverse wildlife. Additionally, the town showcases Kenya’s cultural heritage, with opportunities to learn about local traditions and practices.

Safety Tips : When hiking in Chyulu Hills, it’s important to be prepared with suitable gear and follow safety guidelines provided by local guides.

34. Lamu Archipelago

The Lamu Archipelago is a group of islands located along the northern coast of Kenya. It is often referred to as an island paradise and is famous for its Swahili culture and stunning beaches.

The Lamu Archipelago is a tropical paradise where time seems to stand still. Its islands, including Lamu Island, Manda Island, and Pate Island, are renowned for their historical significance and breathtaking natural beauty.

How to Reach There : You can reach the Lamu Archipelago by boat or air from Mombasa or Nairobi. Once on the islands, transportation is primarily by boat or donkey, as there are no cars on Lamu Island.

Place Known for : The Lamu Archipelago is famous for its pristine beaches, where visitors can relax, swim, and enjoy water sports. The islands also boast a rich Swahili culture, with well-preserved old towns, narrow streets, and centuries-old architecture.

• When exploring the islands, be sure to respect local customs and traditions.
• Follow any safety guidelines provided for water activities and boat trips.

Taveta is a town located near the border with Tanzania and is known for its proximity to Tsavo West National Park and its abundant wildlife.

Taveta is a gateway to the wilderness of Tsavo West National Park, one of Kenya’s largest and most diverse wildlife reserves. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural wonders of Kenya.

How to Reach There : Taveta is accessible by road from Nairobi and other major towns. It serves as an entry point to Tsavo West National Park.

Place Known for : Taveta is famous for its proximity to Tsavo West National Park, where visitors can embark on thrilling safaris to witness the park’s diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and a variety of bird species.

• When on a safari in Tsavo West National Park, it’s crucial to follow safety instructions provided by experienced guides.
• Respect the wildlife and maintain a safe distance from animals.

Conclusion .

Kenya is a country of immense beauty and diversity, offering a wealth of experiences for travelers. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling urban life of Nairobi, the coastal charm of Mombasa, the cultural richness of Kisumu, or the natural wonders of its national parks and reserves, Kenya has something to offer every type of explorer. The country’s landscapes range from lush forests and savannahs to vibrant cities and tranquil lakeshores.

Kenya’s people are warm and welcoming, and its wildlife is among the most spectacular on Earth. While exploring this incredible nation, it’s essential to take safety precautions, as with any travel destination, but the experiences and memories you’ll create in Kenya are bound to be unforgettable. So, pack your bags, prepare for adventure, and immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Kenya.

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35 Best Places to Visit In Kenya FAQs

How to reach kenya.

Kenya is accessible by air, and most international travelers arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, which is the country's largest and busiest airport. There are also international airports in Mombasa and Kisumu. Several major airlines operate flights to Kenya from various parts of the world. Travelers can check for direct flights or connect through other major African or international hubs.

Why Kenya is famous for tourism?

Kenya is famous for tourism primarily due to its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The country boasts an incredible array of national parks and reserves, making it a top destination for safaris and wildlife enthusiasts. Additionally, Kenya offers rich cultural experiences, including interactions with various ethnic groups like the Maasai and Samburu. Its beautiful coastal areas, historical sites, and activities like hot air ballooning over the Maasai Mara further contribute to its popularity.

What is the tourism trend in Kenya?

Kenya has seen a steady increase in tourism over the years, with a growing trend towards eco-tourism, sustainable travel, and cultural experiences. Visitors are increasingly interested in conservation efforts and community-based tourism initiatives. The country is also attracting adventure seekers and hikers interested in exploring its diverse landscapes.

Is it expensive to travel in Kenya?

Traveling in Kenya can vary in cost depending on your preferences. Safari lodges and high-end accommodations can be expensive, but there are budget-friendly options available, including hostels and campsites. Transportation costs, such as safari tours and flights to national parks, can also impact the overall expense. Dining in local restaurants is usually affordable.

What is the best month to go to Kenya?

The best time to visit Kenya depends on your interests. The dry season, from late June to October, is ideal for wildlife viewing, especially in national parks like Maasai Mara. The short rains from November to December and the long rains from March to May are less popular due to potential muddy conditions, but they can still be rewarding for certain experiences.

Is it still safe to travel to Kenya?

Kenya is generally safe for tourists, but like any travel destination, it's essential to stay informed about current safety conditions. Some areas, particularly near the borders, may have travel advisories due to security concerns. It's advisable to check government travel advisories and consult with local authorities or tour operators for the latest safety information.

How many days in Kenya is enough?

The ideal duration for a trip to Kenya depends on your interests and the places you want to visit. A typical safari in Maasai Mara or other national parks can last 3-5 days. If you plan to explore more regions or engage in various activities, a 10–14-day trip would allow for a more comprehensive experience.

What makes people want to go to Kenya?

People are drawn to Kenya for its incredible wildlife, iconic landscapes, rich cultures, and the opportunity to engage in exciting activities like safaris, hiking, and hot air ballooning. Kenya's reputation as a prime destination for eco-tourism and adventure travel also attracts nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

How much do I need to visit Kenya?

The cost of a trip to Kenya varies widely based on your preferences and travel style. A budget traveler could manage on around $50-100 per day, while mid-range travelers might spend $150-300 per day. Luxury safaris and accommodations can cost considerably more.

What is Kenya best known for?

Kenya is best known for its wildlife, national parks, and safaris. The country is also famous for its diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, including Mount Kenya and the Great Rift Valley, and its vibrant capital city, Nairobi.

Is Kenya safe for solo female travelers?

Kenya can be safe for solo female travelers, but it's essential to take precautions. This includes avoiding walking alone at night, dressing modestly, and staying in reputable accommodations. Researching and planning your trip carefully can contribute to a safe and enjoyable experience.

What is the most beautiful thing in Kenya?

Kenya's beauty lies in its natural landscapes, from the rolling savannahs of Maasai Mara to the pristine beaches of the coast. The Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras in Maasai Mara is often considered one of the most breathtaking natural spectacles on Earth.

How safe is Nairobi for tourists?

Nairobi, like any major city, has areas that may be less safe, but many parts of the city are safe for tourists. It's advisable to stay in well-traveled and secure areas, use reputable transportation, and take standard urban safety precautions.

What is the number one tourist attraction in Kenya?

The Maasai Mara National Reserve, known for its incredible wildlife, particularly during the Great Migration, is often considered the number one tourist attraction in Kenya. It offers some of the best safari experiences on the continent.

What makes Kenya so unique?

Kenya's uniqueness stems from its combination of diverse landscapes, cultures, and wildlife. Few places on Earth offer the opportunity to witness the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) in their natural habitat while also experiencing vibrant cultures and stunning scenery.

How can I get a tourist visa for Kenya?

To get a tourist visa for Kenya, you can typically apply online through the eVisa portal or obtain one on arrival at major international airports and border crossings. Requirements may vary depending on your nationality, so it's advisable to check with the Kenyan embassy or consulate in your home country.

Can I get a Kenyan visa on arrival?

Yes , many travelers can obtain a Kenyan visa on arrival at international airports and border crossings. However, it's essential to check the latest visa regulations and requirements, as they can change, and some nationalities may need to apply for an eVisa in advance.

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• 20 Places To Visit In Kenya That Reflect The Country’s Essence Beyond Wildlife!

23 Mar 2023

From vast faunal diversity to an extensive variation in cultures, and from old world cities to ultramodern hubs, Kenya has beaten all stereotypes of being a mere wildlife safari destination . With numerous national parks, urban and rural cities, azure water bodies, geographical marvels, and pristine beaches, being some of the best places to visit in Kenya , this East African country has emerged as a popular tourist destination not only among the adventure lovers but also among families, and honeymooners.

20 Best Places To Visit In Kenya

So, here’s a list of some of the top Kenya tourist places that you must not miss during your next trip to this African jewel. Make sure you don’t forget to get your favourite travel buddies along!

• Amboseli National Park
• Lake Victoria
• Mt. Kenya National Park
• Samburu National Reserve
• Diani Beach
• The Great Rift Valley
• Jamia Mosque
• Uhuru Gardens
• Lamu Island
• Wasini Island
• David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
• Fourteen Falls
• Maasai Mara
• Haller Park

1. Amboseli National Park

Image Source

Adorned by the gigantic Mt. Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park is one of the top places to visit in Kenya for wildlife enthusiasts. Visit this place to spectate majestic views of the highest peak of Africa, and witness large herds of African elephants, and an extensive variety of wildlife such as Zebras, Giraffes, Cheetahs, and innumerable bird species.

Location: Loitokitok District, Rift Valley, Kenya Timings: 6 am to 9 pm Entry Fee: INR 3,850 for adults, and INR 2,250 for children

Must Read: If You Can’t Fly Like A Bird You Jolly Well Can Stay Like One At This Bird Nest In Kenya!

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2. Lake Victoria

Passing through 3 African countries namely Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, Lake Victoria is the largest lake in the whole continent. It is one of the best places to visit in Kenya where one can find peace amidst its tranquil environment, and also explore the extensive variety of aquatic life which includes species like African helmeted turtles, variable mud turtles, Williams’ mud turtle, and 500 species of fish which include non-native fishes like African tetras, Cyprinids, air-breathing catfish, and bagrid catfish.

Suggested Read: Stay At Giraffe Manor Kenya & Experience The Joy Of Living Among Rothschild’s Giraffe

Nairobi is the capital and the largest city of Kenya. It is one of the most popular Kenya tourist places which is known for its legendary colonial history, sprawling infrastructure, tea and coffee industry, and wildlife parks. One should definitely visit this city to capture a glimpse of the historical heritage of Kenya, peep into its vibrant culture, spectate its vivid wildlife, and witness its stunning contemporary art.

Major Attractions: Nairobi National Park, Bomas of Kenya, Ngong Hills, and Hell’s Gate National Park Top Things To Do In Nairobi : Wildlife Safari, and Shopping

Suggested Read: Head To Masai Mara National Park For An Ultimate Encounter With Africa’s Best

4. Mt. Kenya National Park

Situated at an altitude of 5,199 meters, Mt. Kenya is the second highest peak in Kenya, and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This national park was established to conserve the endangered wildlife of the surrounding areas of Mt. Kenya. It has now developed into a full-fledged tourist attraction and is one of the top Kenya sightseeing places that is known for its exhilarating wildlife safari tours.

Location: Mount Kenya National Park, Central Kenya Timings: 9 am to 9 pm Entry Fee: INR 3,400 for adults, and INR 1,670 for children

Suggested Read: Best Safari In Kenya: The Ultimate Guide For A Vacation In The Wild

Located on the Southeast coast of the country, Mombasa is the largest port city of Kenya. Being a cosmopolitan city, Mombasa is considered as a tourist magnet that attracts all sorts of travelers because of its amalgamated culture. It is one of the most famous places in Kenya that boasts of a blend of various cultures, traditions, art, architecture, and cuisines, such as, British, Portuguese, Arab, Indian, and Asian. This city is also famous for its beaches, corals, old monuments, and bustling street markets.

Major Attractions: Fort Jesus, Old Town, Diani Beach, Mombasa Marine National Park, and Nyali Beach Top Things To Do: Diving, Snorkeling, Shopping, and Wildlife Safari

Suggested Read: Wildlife In Kenya: Spot The Glorious Fauna In The Exotic Land That Has Got It All!

Adorning the Southeastern coast of Kenya, Malindi is a popular resort town in the country having two different faces. One part of the city reflects its rich history, while the other half is a modern day tourist hotspot. It is one of the most popular Kenya attractions that lure tourists to explore its historical monuments, pristine beaches, and extensive corals.

Major Attractions: Watamu Beach, Malindi Museum, and Watamu Marine National Parks Top Things To Do: Snorkeling, Diving, and soaking in the tropical weather

7. Samburu National Reserve

Looking for places to visit in North Kenya? Embark on an adventurous journey through the Samburu National Reserve. Located on the banks of Ewaso Ng’iro river, this protected area is known for its popular game reserve where tourist can enjoy a rejuvenating stay, and witness the extensive wildlife which includes species like Grevy Zebra, Somali Ostrich, Reticulated Giraffe, Gerenuk and the Beisa Oryx.

Entry Fee: INR 4,500 for adults, and INR 2,500 for children Website

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8. Diani Beach

Bask in the tropical weather, and enjoy a mesmerizing view of the palm-lined beach, and untarnished white sands, at the Diani Beach in Mombasa. Stretching from the Congo river in the North to Galu beach in the South, this 10-kilometer long beach is one of the top places to visit in Kenya where tourist can enjoy loads of watersports such as diving, fishing, kitesurfing, and much more.

Location: Mombasa, Kenya Website

9. Manda Bay

Adorning the Kenyan coastline, Manda Bay is one of the best Kenya tourist attractions for family, friends, and honeymooners as well. It is an ideal place to enjoy a luxurious vacation in opulent resorts surrounded by coconut, and tamarind trees, and overlooking wide stretches of white sandy beaches.

Location: Lamu, Kenya

10. The Great Rift Valley

Running throughout the country from North to South, the Great Rift Valley is a 6,000-kilometer long geographical formation. It is one of the most astonishing places to visit in Kenya which is of great geographical importance and can be best viewed from the town of Iten, a few kilometers from Eldoret.

Suggested Read: Top Safari Honeymoon Destinations, Experiences, & Resorts In The World

11. Jamia Mosque

Located in the central business district of Nairobi, Jamia Mosque is a popular religious place in Kenya. Known for its Arabic style architecture, this religious site is one of the best places to visit in Kenya, which also houses a library, and a training center, which is dedicated to preaching Islam to people who want to learn about the sect.

Location: Banda Street, Nairobi, Kenya Timings: 6 am to 10:30 pm

12. Uhuru Gardens

This 13-hectare extensive recreational park is one of the most famous places to visit in Kenya which houses a large monument, and an azure lake. It is a popular picnic spot where people can spend quality time with their loved ones amidst its lush green surroundings, and enjoy a peaceful walking tour away from the bustling traffic of the city.

Location: Uhuru Highway-Kenyatta Avenue, Nairobi, Kenya Timings: 6 am to 10:30 pm

13. Lamu Island

Travel back in time as you explore the oldest inhabited settlement in Kenya, the Lamu Island. It is one of the best places to visit in Kenya to witness its rich trading history that reflects through its age-old buildings which are a blend of British, Arabic, and Indian architectural styles. Strolling past the streets of the city one can notice that the city still relies on Dhows, and donkeys for commuting from one place to another.

Major Attractions: Lamu Fort, Lamu Museum, and Manda Island Top Things To Do: Windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, and water skiing

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Cape Town For A Happening Vacation

14. Wasini Island

The small island of Wasini lies in Southeastern coast of Kenya, which is known for its ultramarine waters, and extensive coral reefs. It is one of the top places to visit in Kenya for nature, and adventure lovers, who get an opportunity indulge in thrilling activities like diving, snorkeling, dolphin watching, and sailing on a traditional Dhow.

Major Attractions: Kisite Marine National Park, Shimoni Slave Caves, and Paradise Beach Top Things To Do: Diving, snorkeling, dolphin watching, sailing

15. Mt. Elgon

Mount Elgon is an extinct shield volcano, and the 8th highest mountain in the country, located on the border of Uganda and Kenya, in the western part of the country. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Kenya which attracts a large number of adventurous tourists who wish to indulge in arduous activities like climbing, trekking, and hiking.

Suggested Read: 40 Best Places To Visit In India With Friends For A Completely Crazy, Action-Packed Vacation

16. David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

Established in 1977, this wildlife conservation charity is amongst the most popular ones. Managing an orphanage which looks after rhinos and elephants, this trust is known to help the Kenya Wildlife services with funds. One can also adopt an elephant at this place at a minimum price of USD 50. So, are you ready to visit one of the most serene places to visit in Kenya, Africa yet?

Location: Magadi road, Nairobi, Kenya Timings: 11 am to 12 pm Entry Fee: INR 344

17. Fourteen Falls

As the name suggests itself, this site contains fourteen beautiful waterfalls that have abundant activities and tours included in here. This includes boating, bird watching, fishing and photography. To get the best of this place, it is recommended to take a guided tour of the entire region and know more about its history and geographical aspect. This is surely one of the best hidden places to visit in Kenya that you should not miss!

Location: Mary Dale Farm, Garissa Rd, Thika, Kenya Timings: 8 am to 5 pm Entry Fee: INR 275

18. Maasai Mara

Known to be one of the most spectacular game reserves, Maasai Mara is famous because of the local Maasais living here who take care of the land well and reside here. A unique site of migration can be witnessed in this region from the months of July to October when animals like Zebra, and wildebeest migrate to this region from Serengeti

Location: Narok KE, Narok, Kenya Timings: 6:30 am to 7 pm Entry Fee: INR 4,800

19. Kiboko Bay

Image Source If you’re looking for a luxury stay amid the stunning landscapes of Kenya, it’s time you visit Kiboko Bay resort that offers a unique experience. With ample options for the adventure-crazy folks, you can try hippo-spotting, boat tours, bird watching or simply unwind on the pristine beaches of this land.

Location: Kisumu, Kenya Timings: Throughout the year Tariff: Prices may vary depending on the time of the year

20. Haller Park

For all those who wish to interact with wildlife in a soothing environment, this park is the place to be. Giraffes, buffalos, antelopes and hippos, you can meet a number of animals and birds in this charming park. Almost 1,60,000 people visit this place annually and is considered to be one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kenya ! So, when are you coming?

Location: Trail, Mombasa, Kenya Timings: 8 am to 5 pm Entry Fee: INR 965 per person

Further Read: 10 Surreal Beaches In Kenya That Portray The Soothing Side Of Africa!

Dreaming of an adventurous safari amidst the best wildlife places to visit in Kenya? Then book an exciting Kenya tour package with TravelTriangle to explore the top attractions of the country during your trip to this Africa jewel. Make sure you pack a few extra clothes in case this mesmerising place changes your mind and you wish to extend your vacay!

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Kenya

Which are the best shopping places in Kenya?

Westgate shopping mall, The Village Market of Nairobi, The Hub Karen Mall, Diani Shopping Centre, and Nakumatt Nyali Shopping Center are some of the best shopping places in Kenya.

What should one buy in Kenya?

Maasai Beads, Kitengela Glass, Beaded Bowls, Hand-Carved Wooden Sculptures, and Kikois and Khangas are some of the best things to buy in Kenya.

Which are the best authentic dishes of Kenya?

Ugali, Irio, Githeri, Kenyan Pilau, Wali wa Nazi, Sukuma Wiki, and Kenyan Stew are some of the best authentic dishes of Kenya.

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Places to Visit in Kenya

• Places To Visit

Kenya Tourist Places

Here are some best places to visit in kenya:.

Tourist places in Nairobi that are worth visiting are National Museum, Railway Museum, Giraffe Centre, Karen Blixen, Karura Forest, David Sheldrick Trust Elephant Orphan Centre, Ngong Hills, Blue Sky Tours in Diamond Plaza, Nairobi Arboretum, Panari Sky Centre, Bomas of Kenya, Uhuru Garden, GP Karting, Village Market, Mamba Village, Paintball Fury Limited, Maasai Ostrich Farm, Paradise Lost, August Memorial Park, Kenya National Archives, KICC, Art Centres and Nairobi National Park. Kenya’s largest city and capital, Nairobi implores diversity in romance and puts forward exalted adventure. The city transformed from a meek camp for the railway employees in the year 1899 to the capital named British East Africa by the year 1907. Today, the rich retrospective history and tribal culture and lifestyle are brought to life through its excellent and knowledgeable museums. In particular, the museum named Karen Blixen Museum is one of the biggest hits – not only the African fans come to praise and appreciate the museum but also people from all over the world visit the museum to view the namesake Danish author who with drudgeries toiled on the coffee farmstead in the midst of the beautiful Ngong Hills. Even in such a scampering city like Nairobi, wildlife is a colossal draw. Being a cosmopolitan capital, Nairobi is the only city in the globe that brags a safari park within its frontiers.

The travelers can relish a classic African wildlife escapade at the Nairobi National Park which is a fifteen-minute jaunt from the skyscrapers of the megalopolis. Animals like buffalo, giraffe, rhinoceros, zebra, cheetah, lion and wildebeest meander under the sun-soaked grassy plain in the tropical or subtropical region neighboring meager trees. Here animal lovers too get a chance to clasp, cuddle and embrace the baby elephants and yoke with the giraffes at the spectacular animal sanctuary located nearby. However, with a fabulous and spectacular national park located at the doorstep of the wildlife centric charismatic attractions, Nairobi maddens on, jars and counterpoints on the beautiful and glorious natural beauty. The polarising outlook and character of Nairobi assure rapturing ecstasy to the city. Also, the gateway to the world-class and popular Kenya’s safari parks, Nairobi attracts gripping seekers of adventure for over a century.

Samburu County is a game reserve situated on the banks of River Ewaso Ng’iro, in the former Rift Valley province, in northern Kenya. It stretches from the south of Lake Turkana to River Ewaso Ng’iro in the north. The beauty of Samburu County lies primarily in its two picturesque mountains, namely Ololokwe and Koigotor. Since the River Ewaso Ng’iro flows through the reserve, this area thrives with a variety of wild animals and greenery that consists of vegetation such as thorn trees, riverine forests, acacia trees and lush green grasslands. The major tourist attractions in Samburu County are the Shaba National Reserve, which is the home to the elephant, antelope, leopard, lion, zebra, oryx, monkey, buffalo and giraffes. The Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is the best place to watch elephant babies thrive in their natural environment. Some other attractions are the Walk with Maa Tours and Safaris, Turkana Safaris and the Elephant Watch camp and Safaris, etc. There are several interesting activities that you can do when you are in Samburu. This includes overnight tours, multi-day tours, hiking, nature and wildlife tours, rock climbing, safaris, eco-tours, sporting events and much more that you can enjoy with your loved ones. The weather is generally hot and dry with much cooler nights. The temperature varies between 34 degrees Celsius during the day to 15 degrees Celsius during the night, which makes it relatively pleasant throughout the year and ideal for travelling.

Best of South Africa

One important thing that you need to know about Nakuru is that it lies in vicinity to the most prominent destinations of the world including Kenya’s capital Nairobi and Masai Mara. In addition to this, the attractive district is also home to the Menangai Crater which is the second largest volcanic crater of the world.

Speed through Nakuru on your way to the lakes and you might be astonished as to why anyone would wish to stay here? On the first impression, the fourth largest city of Kenya is provincial and grim that does not have much to offer besides an agreeable refuel. However, you must stick around a little longer and be assured to fall in love with it. 

Nakuru is a burgeoning city that is fast evolving. Over the years, it has been extending around the edges in order to adopt some of the superior aspects of Nairobi bereft of the crime, stress and the traffic.

If you don’t wish to fork out to overnight at Nakuru Lake, the city definitely makes a great base for exploration of the parks and surrounds. Since, the weather in Nakuru is favourable throughout, tourists can plan a visit any time of the year. 

Eldoret is one of the fastest growing towns of Kenya. Nestled south of the Cherangani Hills in the verdant landscape, it is one of African paradises where everything you see has the touch of natural beauty still unadulterated by the intruding modernity. Being the bureaucratic center of Uasin Gishu District of the Rift Valley Province, makes it an even more preferable place as you can find modern amenities, lodgings and more to ensure that your stay is more worthwhile. 

Presently, Eldoret is a thriving service town sprawling Kenya Uganda highway. It is also the principal economic hub of the western Kenya but the travellers only have a little to see and even less to do here. One striking highlight however is the Doinyo Lessos Creameries Cheese Factory where you can stock up 20 different varieties of cheese. 

The name of the town comes from Maasai word ‘eldore’ which means stony river. You can also spot an exact parallel in the very source of this inspiration, River Sosiani. The cultural influences present are variable. After all the, Sirikwa, Nandi and Maasai people have called this place home over a period of offering times. 

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Kakamega is a town that is located in the western Kenya. It lies about 30 km north of the Equator. The town is densely population and is the headquarters of the Kakamega County.

Located 50 km north of Kisumu that is the third largest city of Kenya as well as a port city lying on the Lake Victoria, the average elevation of Kakamega is 1,535 metres.

Kakamega county is the 2nd most populous county after Nairobi. It has 9 constituencies in totality – ikolomani, Matungu, Lugari, Butere, Khwisero, Mumias East, Malava, Shinyalu and Lurambi, all of which have a flavour that deserves to be experienced and felt.     

The town was so named because the world Kakamega translates (in Kiluhyah which is a local dialect here) roughly to pinch. This is used to describe how the colonists of Europe would eat their staple food, ugail.

To be true, there is no certain reason as to why you should stay in this agricultural town however if you come here late in the day, Kakamega can be a convenient place to sleep over and stock up some supplies before you head to the tourist attractions as well as nearby attractions of the Kakamega. 

Meru is a city in the Meru County of Kenya. It is situated in the Eastern Highlands of Kenya and serves as the headquarters of Meru County. Located at an elevation, Meru is a thriving urban centre that is also home to several rivers, mountains and other natural elements. The beauty of Meru is highlighted with thirteen rivers and many mountain-fed streams spread all over the terrain. The rivers are home to crocodiles and hippos and numerous species of fishes and marine animals. Lush green vegetations and woodlands on the slopes of the Nyambeni Mountain Range are some of the most attractive natural features of this city. Some of the popular tourist attractions are the famous parks such as the Lolldaiga Main Gate, Mount Kenya National Park, Ngare Ngare Forest, Buffalo Springs National Reserve and Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy – which is also a zoo. You can also visit the campgrounds of Samburu Trails. Meru has a unique and distinctive cuisine that you can sample in popular eateries such as the. Royal Prince, a restaurant and a bar serving delicious fried delicacies. Another popular place that is frequented by tourists and locals alike is the Legends Restaurant, which serves some delicious local dishes and snacks like beef stew with ugali and samosas. Other attractions include the Nakumatt Supermarket where you can buy souvenirs from your tour and the famous Meru National Museum where you can get an insight into local history. Meru experiences dry, hot and arid weather conditions throughout the year. The temperatures remain fairly the same all year round. The average temperature ranges from 32 degrees Celsius during the day and 17 degrees Celsius during the night.

Best of Nairobi

Mombasa is situated in south-east Kenya along the Indian Ocean. It is a beautiful coastal city that is known as the blue and white city. It is also the oldest city in the country, with a rich and vibrant cultural history. The enthralling city of Mombasa is known for its exceptional natural beauty. This city is famous for its pristine beaches, turquoise blue sea, coral reefs and thick vegetation of lush green palms. The rainforests are home to a large number of magnificent birds and animals, native to Africa. While exploring the city of Mombasa, you must visit the amazing Diani Beach, the Haller Park, the Shimba Hills National Reserve, the Nyali Beach, Mombasa Island, Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary and the famous Mombasa Marine National Park, which are some of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Apart from the tourist attractions and natural beauty, you can also indulge in adventure activities in Mombasa including an illuminating full-day tour of Mombasa, a 2 -Day Safari in Taita Hills from Mombasa, exploring the Tsavo National Park from Mombasa, climbing Mount Kenya, infinite treks, hikes, safaris and more. Since Kenya primarily experiences a tropical climate, the weather in Mombasa generally remains hot and humid throughout the year. The summers are hot with occasional rain and the winters are comparatively cooler, windy and dry with clear skies.

Traversing three hours west of Nairobi, this crumbling provincial town which is also the capital of the Mara region. It is the final proper centre prior to the vast grasslands of the Masai Mara. It is a surprising and friendly hassle free place that offers few travellers with a reason to stop and unwind. A lot of people roll on in, browse the curio shops when the driver refuels before you begin rolling on out again.

Situated west of Nairobi, it has very well been capable of supporting the economy of Kenya in the south west of the country along the Great Rift Valley. It is the district capital of the Narok County which also stands as the principal centre of commerce in the district. With a population of some 40,000 people that largely comprises of Maasai people, Narok is still as pristine as ever. 

The Maasai, natives of the Narok district regard Narok as the Enkare Narok which has been named after the river which passes through the Narok town. It is a beautifully town that definitely deserves a visit when you have taken a trip to Kenya. 

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Thika is indeed one of the most discernible names to have emerged from the colonial Kenya all accredited to the articulate memoir which is Elspeth Huxley’s, ‘The Flame Trees of Thika.’ These days, in the growing modern city, you’ll actually be hard pressed to locate a tree let alone a flame tree. However, you still have an opportunity to indulge in the tiny nostalgia before you finally get back on the highway and continue further on the way.

The two children of the Aberdare Range, Thika and Chania finally unite 2 km north of the town where they plunge over a rocky, tree-lined cliff. This scene is elegantly appreciated from the porch of the Blue Post Hotel with a book in one hand and a stiff drink in the other.

With its history that outdates the town itself, the Blue Post still withholds a faint aroma of the colonial for those who wish to linger on here overnight. Undoubtedly, it was the principal location opposite the waterfalls of Thika which used to attract its original proprietors in the year 1908. At present, the grounds along with the children’s play area attract a number of Kenyan couple who intent on tying a knot in their polyester glory. When done with Thika, you can also visit the nearby destinations including Nyeri, Sagana, Embu and Nairobi. 

Kitale is a beautiful agricultural town that is located in the Western Kenya. It lies some 380 kilometres from Nairobi which is the capital of Kenya. The town lies between Mount Elgon and Cherengani Hills. The significant cash crops which are grown in Kitale include seed maize, sunflower, Pyrethrum, tea, seed beans and coffee. 

Kitale is an administrative center of the Trans Nzoia District. It lies in the Rift Valley Province. Founded by the while settlers in the year 1908, Kitale is one of most prominent attractions in Africa. A branch line of the Uganda Railway leading you to the town from the Eldoret reached the town in the year 1926 with an object of promoting growth in the town.

Agriculturally rich, Kitale is a friendly market town that has a couple of interesting museums along with a bustling market. Shopping indeed is one of the principal activity to be enjoyed here. This market makes for an ideal base when you wish to explore the Saiwa Swamp National Parks and Mt Elgon. Kitale also serves as a quintessential take off point for tourists who wish to take a trip up to the western side of the Lake Turkana. 

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Best of Namibia

Kisumu is nestled on the sloping shore Winam Gulf of the Lake Victoria. It may be the third largest town of Kenya but its relaxed atmosphere is way different from that of Mombasa and Nairobi. Until the year 1977, the port happened to be one of busiest in Kenya. In the same year because of the political squabbling the port sat virtually idle for some 2 decades. Post that there was a decline set in which led to the collapse of the East African Community. The EAC was initially established by Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania so as to come up with a common market within this region.  Recently there has been an increase in the cooperation as well as the revival of the EAC that also includes Burundi and Rwanda. This in 2000 has also helped establish Kisumu as one international shipment point for the products of petroleum. Surprisingly the lake doesn’t play any part in this. So, despite the lake having been the life and blood for the inception of the Kisumu, the city still rests with its back to the water. None the less, the fortune of Kisumu is on a rise once again. This has led to a reduction in the impact of the water hyacinth. Hopefully, in the years to come Lake Victoria will again begin contributing to the economy of the Kisumu. So, play an active role in boosting the economy of Kisumu by making a visit to the town. 

Other Attractions

Mount kenya national park.

Mount Kenya National Park and Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kenya, East Africa. It boasts diverse ecosystems, including montane forest, alpine moorlands, and glaciers. Its highest peak, Batian, rises to 5,199 meters, offering breathtaking vistas. The park is a haven for diverse wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and endangered species like the bongo. It's a hiker's paradise, with challenging trails attracting adventurers worldwide.

Maasai Mara National Reserve

Maasai Mara is one of the most incredible game reserve of the world. Nestled on the border of Tanzania, Mara is the northern extension of the Serengeti. It makes for the wildlife corridor between the two countries Tanzania and Kenya.

Giraffe Manor

Amboseli National Park

Lake Victoria

Lake Naivasha

Samburu National Reserve

Diani Beach

The Great Rift Valley

Uhuru Gardens

Lamu Island

Wasini Island

Mount Longonot

Hells Gate National Park

Tsavo National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park, situated in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Spanning an area of approximately 188 square kilometers, the park is characterized by wooded and bushy grasslands surrounding the picturesque Lake Nakuru. Its rich biodiversity includes over 50 mammal species, such as rhinos (both black and white), Rothschild giraffes, cape buffaloes, olive baboons, impalas, waterbucks, and hippos. The park is particularly famous for its large flocks of flamingos that gather along the lake's shores, creating a mesmerizing pink spectacle. Visitors can enjoy game drives, birdwatching, and hiking trails while exploring this natural haven.

Jeevanjee Gardends

Jeevanjee Gardens, situated in Nairobi, Kenya, is a lovely green space right in the middle of the city. It's like a breath of fresh air amidst the busy streets.

Spread across a large area, Jeevanjee Gardens is a place where you can relax and enjoy nature. Picture yourself walking on lush green lawns, surrounded by colorful flowers and shady trees. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic with friends, or simply finding a quiet corner to relax with a book.

What's special about Jeevanjee Gardens is its history. It was created by Alibhai Mulla Jeevanjee, a well-known figure in Kenya, back in the late 19th century. Since then, it's been a place where people come together for cultural events, music concerts, and other activities that celebrate Nairobi's vibrant spirit.

For families, there's plenty to do at Jeevanjee Gardens. Kids can run around in the playgrounds, splash in the fountains, and just have fun outdoors. It's a great place for families to spend quality time together and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Bora Bora Wildlife Park

Bora Bora Wildlife Park, nestled amidst the lush landscapes of the island paradise, offers a captivating sanctuary for both native and exotic species.

Almasi Art Agency

Almasi Art Agency in Kenya is a dynamic cultural organization fostering the growth of performing arts. Committed to enriching the local arts scene, it serves as a catalyst for theatrical innovation and creative expression.

Mzima Springs

Lake Nakuru

Fourteen Falls

Shaba National Reserve

Shaba National Reserves is known for its rich wildlife and unique variety of birds making this national reserve so popular worldwide. Tourists coming here can spot some rare species of animals, including Reticulated giraffes, Grevy's zebra, Beisa oryx, the Somali ostrich, and the Gerenuk. Apart from these species that are exclusive to this region, you can also spot a few common wildlife creatures, including Elephant, black rhino, lion, leopard, cheetah, buffalo and hyena. If bird spotting is your game then try spotting the group of helmeted and vulturine guinea fowl during the daytime near the river Ewaso Ng'iro, when they are in search of water to quench their thirst. If you're lucky enough you can also spot marabou storks flying over the blues or see thousands of sandgrouses and doves on the tree or on the lands. Location- It lies to the north of the Ewaso Ng'iro River Entry Fee- US$45-120 depending on the age group.

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Nursery

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Buffalo Springs National Reserve

Nairobi National Park

Tsavo East National Park

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17 Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Kenya

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on April 25, 2024

One of the best places to go on safari in the world, Kenya is renowned for its rich wildlife and innumerable nature reserves. While most people come to see the Big 5, pearly white beaches and historic Swahili settlements line its stunning coast.

Located in East Africa alongside the Indian Ocean, it has long been one of the most popular countries to visit on the continent. Incredibly diverse, its national parks encompass everything from mountains and deserts to wetlands, plains, and lakes. They host an abundance of wildlife with the Maasai Mara and its wildebeest migration being the most famous of the lot.

The wildlife safaris have been the top tourist attractions in Kenya for decades. Other things to do include trekking Mount Kenya, ballooning over the Masai Mara and snorkeling in Malindi on the Indian Ocean coast. This makes for a nice change after days spent looking for elephants, giraffes and lions.

17. Lake Naivasha

A lovely day trip destination or a quiet weekend away, Lake Naivasha lies only two hours’ drive from Nairobi. Although often overlooked in favor of the nearby Lake Nakuru and its famous flamingos, it too is known for its bountiful birdlife and beautiful scenery.

Part of the Great Rift Valley, the shallow freshwater lake’s name actually means ‘rough water’ in the Maasai language. Other than a sizeable population of hippos, it is home to around 400 bird species. These include not just egrets and African fish eagles but cormorants, pelicans, and kingfishers too. Big buffaloes and towering giraffes can also be spotted along its shores.

To see as many animals and birds as possible, lots of people take scenic boat trips out on the lake. You can also stay overnight at the comfy lodges that look out over its sparkling surface.

16. Karen Blixen Museum

Lying on the southwestern outskirts of the capital, not far from Nairobi National Park, is the brilliant Karen Blixen Museum. Her former home provides an interesting look at the life of the Out of Africa author in Kenya.

From 1917 to 1931, the renowned Danish writer lived in a bungalow-style farmhouse at the foot of the Ngong Hills. Her famous memoir recounts what living on the coffee plantation was like. It also explores Kenya’s rich culture and colonial rule in British East Africa.

Now a historic house museum, its rooms are full of period pieces and original artifacts owned by the author. Surrounded by lush, green grounds, it makes for a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the centre of Nairobi.

15. Tsavo East National Park

One of Kenya’s oldest and largest national parks, Tsavo East is situated in the southeast, on the way to the coast from Nairobi. A great choice if you’re wondering where to go on safari, it boasts loads of awesome wildlife.

Once the hunting grounds of the Waliangulu and Kamba tribes, its sprawling savanna and semi-arid grasslands have been protected since 1948. As well as the Big 5, you can also spy huge hippopotami and camouflaged crocodiles alongside the Galana River. Overhead, crowned cranes and sacred ibis flap about beneath the park’s bright blue skies.

Constantly in contact with other guides, your driver will somehow get you up close to every animal imaginable. Thanks to them, we saw a family of elephants enjoying a red dust bath right beside the jeep. Although often seen throughout the park, this scene was still one of our favorite memories from our time in Kenya.

14. Tsavo West National Park

Much more mountainous and swampy than its nearby namesake, Tsavo West lies just across a river and the A109 from the neighboring national park. Due to its more varied scenery and specially protected rhino sanctuary, it is slightly more popular to visit.

Also named after the Tsavo River, its rugged reaches are dotted by dramatic black lava flows and volcanic cones. Some exciting rock climbing can also be had up its craggy cliff faces. Here too, you’ll find the marvelous Mzima Springs where you can see hippos, crocs, and turtles.

This time, the highlight of our safari was seeing an incredibly rare eastern black rhinoceros. It stopped in the middle of the road before staring at us for what seemed like an eternity before slowly plodding back into the bush.

13. Fort Jesus, Mombasa

The coastal city’s main tourist attraction, the formidable Fort Jesus watches over the Old Port from Mombasa island. A fascinating place, it has some seriously impressive architecture and an extensive collection of artifacts for visitors to enjoy.

Built between 1593 and 1596, the crumbling old fort marks the first time a European power exerted its influence over trade in the Indian Ocean. An outstanding example of Portuguese Renaissance architecture, it is roughly square in shape with four bulwarks at its corners. Local Swahili people are thought however to have provided most of the labour, materials, and expert masonry techniques.

While we enjoyed seeing the fort and learning about its past, we preferred getting lost in the Old Town outside. Full of life, its traditional Swahili buildings house little local restaurants and souvenir shops selling masks, textiles, and jewellery.

12. Aberdare National Park

Unlike most of the country’s parks, Aberdare is more known for its scenic hikes and waterfalls than its abundant wildlife. Certain to delight nature lovers, it is nestled amongst the Central Highlands on the way from Nairobi to Nakuru.

Established back in 1950, it protects part of the Aberdare Mountains that range from 2,000 to 4,000 metres in height. Covering its vast valleys and the lower slopes of its prominent peaks are rivers, forests, and even some waterfalls. A large population of eastern black rhinos and elephants also live amongst these diverse landscapes.

Some of the best hikes are to Mount Satima’s summit or along the challenging yet rewarding Elephant Hills trail. Not to be missed are the stunning Chania and Karuru falls, both of which make for some epic photos and viewing hidden away amidst the verdant forest.

11. Diani Beach

If after all the safaris and sightseeing you just want to relax and unwind, then the idyllic Diani Beach is definitely the place to go. Set just south of Mombasa, all its wide, white sands are a treat to lounge on lazily. Here you can also enjoy a wealth of fun watersports.

Stretching around seventeen kilometers in length, the relaxing resort area lies alongside the twinkling Indian Ocean. Dotted up and down the palm tree-fringed beach are countless luxury hotels and resorts. Many offer all-inclusive packages and can arrange safari trips for guests.

Besides being one of the best beaches we’ve been to (it really does look breathtaking), there are loads of things to do to try. Kite surfing and jet skiing are both super fun while scuba diving and snorkeling highlight its rich marine life. You can also take sightseeing cruises along the coast or quad-biking trips around the nearby villages.

10. Hell’s Gate National Park

For those after an active holiday, Hell’s Gate National Park is a good bet thanks to its excellent hiking, biking, and rock climbing. Its relatively close proximity to Nairobi and cheaper entrance fees also mean that plenty of people head here.

Lying just to the south of Lake Navaisha, it is named after a narrow gap in the park’s colossal cliffs. Asides from the slender gorge’s ruddy red rocks, there are also a couple of long-extinct volcanoes to explore. Some of the most arresting formations to photo are those created long ago by cooling molten lava.

As very few predators reside within this part of the Great Rift Valley, many visitors hike or bike about the park. While visiting its hot springs and Maasai Cultural Centre, keep an eye out for the local wildlife. Other than African buffaloes and elands, you can sometimes see hyenas, baboons, and ostriches amidst the undergrowth.

9. Nairobi National Park

The only nature reserve of its kind in the world, Nairobi National Park literally lies right on the doorstep of the country’s capital. Seeing its skyline as you look at lions, elephants, and giraffes is a surreal feeling that needs to be experienced.

Set aside in the forties to protect the region’s dwindling wildlife, it mainly consists of endless open grass plains. Here and there though, you’ll find pockets of forests along rivers and small rocky gorges scattered about. Living in the park are everything from gazelles and cheetahs to crocodiles, jackals, and common eland.

While we did do several safaris in Kenya, we are still happy we went here. Its diverse wildlife and delightfully different views made the visit quite special. After all, there aren’t many cities in the world where wildebeest and zebra migrations take place almost right through it.

8. Lamu Island

One of the best places in East Africa to experience traditional Swahili culture is the lovely little Lamu Island. Located along Kenya’s northeastern coastline, it is a very relaxing spot 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 twelfth century, the labyrinthe-like streets of its Old Town are lined by charming coral stone buildings and quiet inner courtyards.

More peaceful and better preserved than Zanzibar’s Stone Town, it is known for its intricately carved wooden doors and cute donkeys. After seeing its museum and fort, you can relax on its white sandy beaches or explore some other nearby villages. Many people also take tranquil dhow boat trips about the archipelago.

7. 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 generally takes four or five arduous days to reach its soaring summit. Climbing the summit is probably one of the most difficult and rewarding things to do in Kenya.

Formed around three million years ago, the enormous, extinct stratovolcano is actually where the country’s name came from. One of its main symbols and sights, its slopes are very heavily eroded while ice caps coat its upper reaches.

The mighty mount has three separate peaks for avid adventurers to summit with Batian being the loftiest of the lot. Although Nelion is the toughest of the three, Lenana’s unpredictableness can pose a problem. After braving the steep climb and challenging weather conditions though, spectacular views greet you at the top.

Another popular place to head if you’re after some sun, sea, and sand is Malindi. Located along the Indian Ocean, it has lots of fantastic beaches, hotels, and nature parks for you to stop by.

Long a hub for Italian tourists, its string of pearly white beaches is actually where Vasca da Gama landed in 1498. Still standing in the same spot overlooking the ocean is the coral pillar he erected all those years ago. For more historic sites, you can explore the Gede Ruins which protect the crumbling remains of a twelfth-century Swahili town.

Most holidaymakers however come to Malindi for its beaches. Bordered by twinkling turquoise waters, their sweeping white sands make for quite the sight. The ocean does sometimes turn a murky brown color though around the mouth of the Sabaki River.

5. Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

If you’re after an unforgettable (and adorable!) animal encounter, then you just have to visit the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. At their sanctuary on the outskirts of Nairobi, you can watch baby elephants feed, play, and frolic about together.

Since being founded back in 1977, it has rescued and rehabilitated hundreds of orphaned and injured elephants. At their center, young ones are first hand-reared until the age of two or three by their keepers. Later on, they are sent to Tsavo East before eventually being released back into the wild.

Each day, a certain number of guests can visit the orphanage and see the elephants. As you can imagine, watching them play football and roll around in the mud is pretty much the cutest thing ever.

4. Lake Nakuru

One of the most iconic sights in all of Africa is the vast flock of bright pink flamingos that live in Lake Nakuru. Instantly recognizable, they make for some fabulous photos with white rhinos and Rothschild’s giraffes also regularly spied nearby.

Stretching almost endlessly away into the distance, its reflective waters lie within the Great Rift Valley. Now a national park, it protects over 450 bird species alongside a handful of lions, cheetahs and leopards. At times, more than a million of the fantastic flamingos flock here due to its abundant algae.

While the rhinos and flamingos are the main attraction, there is plenty more to see along its scenic lakeshore. Zebra and waterbucks often water here while sizable pythons slowly slither their way about its dense woodlands.

3. Amboseli National Park

Thanks to its huge herds of elephants and ample wildlife, Amboseli National Park is routinely ranked among the best places to go on safari. Lying almost on the border with neighboring Tanzania, its savannas, woods, and wetlands really are a treat to explore.

Meaning ‘salty, dusty place’ in the Maa language, its unique habitats have been recognized as a nature park since 1908. While some parts are incredibly arid, the areas around its swamps almost create an oasis. Here life flourishes, with 1,600 free-ranging elephants reckoned to live in Amboseli at the last count.

Besides trying to spot the Big 5, you can learn all about local Maasai culture at the traditional Muteleu village nearby. On top of this, the silhouette of Mount Kilimanjaro blotting out the sky on the horizon only adds to the park’s already considerable appeal.

2. Samburu National Reserve

Even more wild and remote is the incredible Samburu National Reserve to the north of Mount Kenya. Due to the long distances from Nai, it sees much fewer visitors than other parks. This and its staggeringly diverse landscapes mean large numbers of lots of animals live here.

Located almost slap bang in the center of the country, it is mostly dry and dusty though rivers and forests can be found here and there. It is this wide variety of vegetation and the winding Ewaso Ngi’ro River that attract all the animals.

Asides from your standard lions, cheetahs, and leopards, the park is particularly known for its dry-country fauna. These include the East African oryx as well as generuk, Grevy’s zebras, and reticulated giraffes. While it takes some getting to, Samburu is well worth it for the different animals and scenery you see.

1. Masai Mara

Renowned around the world, the Masai Mara is one of Kenya’s, and the continent’s, most famous safari destinations. The highlight of our time in East Africa, it boasts exceptional populations of lions and leopards, cheetahs, and elephants, alongside countless others.

Named in honor of the Maasai, its open grasslands and seasonal riverlets merge with the Serengeti to the south. Each year, the park’s plains host the Great Migration; an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon like no other. This is when millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles migrate en masse as predators try to pick them off.

Seeing them all seemingly move as one is an unbelievable experience that will certainly leave you feeling small. Outside of this tumultuous time, visitors can still easily see all of the Big 5 roaming about the park. Crocs and hippos can also be spotted along the Mara and Talek rivers as long-crested eagles and African pygmy falcons swoop about overhead.

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Reader interactions.

October 30, 2014 at 5:50 pm

Kenya is absolutely an amazing country, its so beautiful, breathtaking and eccentric. What has made Kenya so special is the diverse wildlife, the beaches, the Kenyan Mountain and off course its pleasant weather. One important thing about Kenyan people I have found out, I think Kenyan people in general are humble and absolute genuine. God have blessed them all. I really love Kenya the country itself and the wonderful people. I’m actually studying Travel & Tourism. I’m really looking forward to see it. Hazjar Iraqi

October 7, 2014 at 10:31 pm

Kenya is indeed a spectacular and breathtaking place to visit in the Heart of Africa. We love you, and wish you a safe journey and good health as you plan for a visit. You will definitely experience the hospitality and warmth more than you expected. Proud to be a Kenyan Soldier. I love my country, and together we can make this world a better sustainable world. God Bless Kenya, God bless you!!

August 28, 2014 at 2:14 am

KENYA,is a great country and beautiful one having the most spetacular sceneries in the world and its peaceful nature ………..if you visit malindi ,maasai mara and mt kenya you may think you are in another universe of its own because you cant believe what you see….,i love kenya

August 21, 2014 at 6:02 am

Having been in the travel industry for about 8 yrs now,i believe Kenya is among the top travel destinations…it offers quite a variety of destinations from just day trips ,short trips and definately the long safaris which gives you an opportunity to learn much about kenya.

May 8, 2014 at 6:02 am

Kenya is like a mini earth.from snow in the mt.kenya peak,tropical forests in nyanza,vast deserts in the northern frontier..the list continues.am so proud to be kenyan

April 1, 2014 at 2:08 am

kenya is spetacular#studied tour guide and i love my job

October 18, 2023 at 1:22 am

It’s true that Kenya has most attractive animals and plants to see.

February 13, 2014 at 7:48 am

Kenya is the best country I’ve been to great fun.

November 22, 2013 at 3:43 am

i couldnt have been born in a better country.kenya is a beautiful place to be.am a proud kenyan

October 31, 2013 at 2:28 am

even though we are losing our wildlife at a devastating rate i have always been hopeful that the time has come for us to implement the new wildlife policies and save our wildlife hence continue enjoying the flow of the revenue. it is and it has been my prayer to conserve the nature of our nation

October 22, 2013 at 7:52 am

kenya is one of the best places to go in a lifetime, the variety of animals in their natural habitats and the beautiful beaches attract a lot of tourists from all over the world. Beholding the wildebeest migration in Masai mara and Serengeti should be in everybody’s to-do list

June 16, 2013 at 3:13 am

I am studying tour guiding and cannot wait to visit the fascinating wild Kenya.

June 4, 2013 at 6:51 am

I am studying tour guide I can’t wait to go on practice

May 14, 2013 at 9:44 pm

kenya is my country and i love it very much. my dream is to be become a tour guide to guide you to these beautiful resource in kenya

October 16, 2012 at 6:43 am

My friends and I are planning to come to kenya next year (2013), can’t wait.

September 20, 2012 at 5:03 am

Traveling to Kenya, especially the Masia Mara is one of my dreams. Earlier this year I was fortunate to travel most of Namibia. So, that dream realized. Next will definitely be Kenya. We must do these things before nothing is left.

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10 Most Beautiful & Interesting Places To Visit in Kenya

Heather Richardson is an award-winning travel writer, based in South Africa. She is interested in conservation stories, emerging destinations and adventure travel.

A country of great diversity, both physically and culturally, Kenya is one of Africa’s most popular destinations for very good reason. With blissful Indian Ocean beaches, craggy mountains, lush forests and wildlife-rich savannahs, there are endless beautiful places to visit in Kenya. 

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1. Masai Mara

Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most famous safari destinations on the continent, but you can escape the crowds by heading to a private concession or conservancy on the edge of the reserve. Aside from not being accessible to day-trippers or those not staying in one of the conservancies’ lodges or tented camps, the conservancies have the advantage of allowing activities not permitted in the national reserve: bush walks and night drives, for example. The Masai Mara is one of the best places in Africa for big cat sightings: lions, leopards and cheetahs are all relatively easy to spot. Then of course, there’s the big-ticket draw: the year-round migration that sees nearly two million wildebeest, plus half a million antelopes and thousands of zebras, following the rains around Tanzania and Kenya. The most anticipated part of this journey is the dramatic Mara River crossings that occur between July or August and October as the animals enter Kenya.

Masai Mara Tours

2. Lake Nakuru

Lake Nakuru National Park is home to a vast number of bird species, most notably flocks of flamingos – they have been known to number in their millions, though the lake has seen a decrease in recent times. Lake Nakuru is one of the Rift Valley lakes, and the birds are attracted to the high levels of algae in the water. Pelicans, cormorants, African fish eagles, Verreaux’s eagles, Goliath herons and hammerkops are also seen around the lake. In addition, you can spot black and white rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes and lions throughout the national park.

Lake Nakuru Tours

3. Diani Beach

Easily amongst the most picturesque shores in Africa, Diani Beach is about 30km/20mi south of Mombasa and a short flight from Nairobi. Its white sands are lapped by the brilliant Indian Ocean and backed by verdant forests, into which you can take nature walks when you tire of sunbathing or kite-surfing. Head out for a snorkeling tour, swim with whale sharks, enjoy a sunset dhow cruise – or simply kick back in a hammock with a good book.

Diani Tours

4. Amboseli

For iconic views, look no further than Amboseli National Park, close to the Tanzanian border and south-east of the Mara. With the mighty, snowcapped Mt Kilimanjaro, the world’s highest free-standing mountain, rising above the park from across the border, the dramatic scenery is partly why it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kenya. Another reason is its healthy elephant population, many with giant tusks. Then there are the park’s lions, cheetahs, hyenas, buffalo, giraffes, pelicans, martial eagles, blue-cheeked bee-eaters – and much more.

Amboseli Tours

5. Mt Kenya

At 5,199m/17,057ft high, the largest mountain in Kenya is also the second highest in Africa after Kilimanjaro across the border in Tanzania. The stratovolcano was created around three million years ago when the East African Rift (part of the Great Rift Valley) opened up. Today its lower slopes are covered in forests of bamboo and African rosewood trees and the mountain runoff provides water for over two million people. With its rugged snowy peaks and glaciers along the upper slopes, Mt Kenya is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kenya. Travelers hoping to summit can either hike to Point Lenana, one of the three peaks, taking the world’s highest via ferrata (iron way) route, or climb to the highest point, Batian Peak, though this requires experience of technical climbing.

Mt Kenya Tours

In northern Kenya, Samburu National Reserve is considered one of the best safari destinations in the country. This region is also home to the Samburu people, famed for their many strands of brightly colored beaded jewelry. Within the reserve you’ll find elephants, lions, leopards and cheetahs, plus over 450 species of birds. You might also spot rare sub-species such as the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe and East African oryx, as well as the gerenuk (a long-necked antelope) and spotted hyena.

Samburu Tours

7. Ol Pejeta

A Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) conservancy in the foothills of Mt Kenya, Ol Pejeta Conservancy is known for its conservation initiatives. It was where the last male northern white rhino, Sudan, died in 2018; the last females of the sub-species still live at Ol Pejeta, protected around the clock. The Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary is in the Laikipia conservancy, too, providing a home for chimps rescued from the black market. One of the most interesting places to visit in Kenya, Ol Pejeta is a great destination to learn about the relationship between people and wildlife and the challenges faced in the conservation industry. Come for the day or enjoy a longer stay for lion tracking, bush walks and night drives.

Ol Pejeta Tours

8. The Aberdares

In the cool highlands along the Great Rift Valley, Aberdare National Park is one of the most interesting places to visit in Kenya. Not only is it a lush mountainous region of valleys, rivers, waterfalls and forests, it is also home to extremely rare animals such as the black serval, the black leopard and the eastern bongo, the country’s most elusive antelope. This is the place where Elizabeth II heard of her father’s death, making her Queen of England; Treetops Hotel, where she was staying at the time, has since become a popular place for travelers to visit.

Aberdare Tours

9. Lamu Town

Kenya is not only noted for its safari reserves and savannah but also for its Indian Ocean coastline. The Lamu archipelago is amongst the most interesting places to visit in Kenya as an area brimming with history. Lamu town was founded around 1370 as a Swahili port that has since been inhabited by Europeans, Indians and Persians. As such, it’s a melting pot of multicultural influences. There are 23 mosques, a 19th-century fort and traditional dhow boats bobbing offshore. Then of course there are the surrounding peaceful and unspoilt beaches. The perfect place to unwind after a Kenyan safari tour.

10. Chyulu Hills

In southeastern Kenya, Chyulu Hills is a mountain range that extends for 1,000km/620mi, peaking at 2,188m/7,178ft above sea level. They’re some of the world’s youngest volcanic mountains, at just 500 years old, and where you can find the Leviathan Cave, one of the world’s longest lava tubes. In the scenic Chyulu Hills National Park , you might spot eland, klipspringer, giraffe and zebra, amongst other wildlife. Aside from wildlife-viewing safari drives, you can head out hiking, rock climbing and horseback riding. The lush hills and big skies make this one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kenya, especially in the Maasai conservancies and group ranches on the western slopes, outside the park.

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You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Nairobi (End)

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Focus East Africa Tours » Blog » Kenya’s Top 10 Most Beautiful Cities to Visit

Kenya’s Top 10 Most Beautiful Cities to Visit

Kenya’s Top 10 Most Beautiful Cities to Visit : Kenya is known for having some of the best, most distinctive, and beautiful cities with a wide variety of attractions and activities that give tourists an once-in-a-lifetime travel experience in additional to wildlife safari destinations of the Maasai Mara National Reserve and Amboseli National Park , which are among the best wildlife safari destinations in Africa . Kenya is well known for many things, but its magnificent cities and sprawling towns are some of the must-sees when traveling to this East African nation. These urban areas are filled with exciting entertainment hubs, breathtaking tourist attractions, and a variety of dining and lodging options.

Your next Kenyan safari trip can be different from the one you took previously by planning and spending it seeing and discovering wonderful and magnificent cities in Kenya in order to attempt to have fresh experiences rather than traveling to Kenya for wildlife safaris in national parks . However, some of the cities are close to national parks, so if you don’t want to miss anything while exploring Kenya’s cities, beaches, and national parks, you can choose to visit both of them as part of a three-or more-day  Kenya safari package . This will give you the opportunity to have an unforgettable safari experience.

So what are the most beautiful cities to visit in Kenya? You cannot explore and visit all of Kenya’s stunning cities during your brief safari vacation; as a result, you must select the most stunning cities to see and skip others. So how do you choose which one to visit and which one to leave behind? In this post, we’ll provide you with a list of the most stunning cities in Kenya that you shouldn’t miss during your country’s city trip. The ten most picturesque cities to visit in Kenya are listed below.

Naivasha, a town that serves as a gateway to the Rift Valley region’s tourist attractions, is situated along the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway . There are plenty of lodging options, dining establishments, retail stores, and financial institutions in the town. Since Naivasha is a center for agriculture, you may expect to eat locally grown food when there and take advantage by learning on how the Kenyan local people cultivates and the whole agriculture process, Kenya’s Top 10 Most Beautiful Cities to Visit.

Safari Advice/ tips to Naivasha : If you plan to come into town over the weekend, you should make your hotel reservations as soon as possible/ early to ensure and guarantee your first seat. On weekends, the majority of the top lodging options in the area are usually booked solid. Although the accommodation prices in Naivasha are relatively inexpensive during the off-seasons, hotel rates typically vary from $30 to $100 per night.

Machakos is a large town with beautiful surroundings that is situated 65 kilometers southeast of Nairobi city . One of Kenya’s most lovely cities is this one, on one hand, it is bordered by hilly terrain, which provides lovely scenery and areas ideal for hiking safaris and camping safaris.

 There are many hotels, open-air marketplaces, and financial institutions in Machakos. There are enough schools, colleges, and universities in the town and its surroundings to serve all the local residents. The town is safe for tourist and the likelihood of burglary, pickpocketing, and other types of theft is extremely minimal, and the locals are typically exceedingly courteous and friendly, Kenya’s Top 10 Most Beautiful Cities to Visit.

About 150 kilometers north of Nairobi city, in Kenya’s central highlands, is the town of Nyeri. The town has a good road network and reliable water and electricity supply systems. Nyeri is a popular tourist destination in Kenya because Mount Kenya and the Aberdare National Park are nearby. The town has enough dining options, lodging options, and financial institutions.

Although this town generally has great weather, it is not very pleasant between May and August. If you are not used to cold weather, you may find it hard to stay in this town.

Lamu , one of the largest settlements on the Kenyan coast, is located 340 kilometers northeast of Mombasa city. Lamu is, surprisingly, Kenya’s oldest continuously inhabited settlement. It is a well-known tourist destination in the area thanks to its notable tourist attractions , which include the Riyadha Mosque, Lamu Museum, Lamu Port, the Donkey Sanctuary , and others. The town also includes a good number of lodging options, dining establishments, and entertainment venues.

If you have never done so before, be prepared to ride a donkey if you plan on visiting this town in your Kenya city tours because this is the primarily mode of transport in this area and if you can’t use a donkey, you may always hire a taxi because cabs are also available in the neighborhood.

About 120 kilometers northeast of Mombasa city , Malindi is situated close to the Galana River’s mouth. The town has a reliable transportation network. It is traversed by the Mombasa-Lamu Highway and contains an airport. Malindi is a well-liked tourist destination thanks to its many tourist attractions, including the Pillar of Vasco Da Gama, marine national parks, and beautiful beaches .

Eldoret, the fifth-largest city in Kenya, is situated south of the Cherangani Hills in western Kenya . It is one of Kenya’s fastest-growing municipalities and is home to some of the nation’s biggest hospitals and colleges. Additionally, it boasts a reliable transportation network that includes an international airport and a motorway. The Great Rift Valley, which is home to amazing geographical features, offers visitors breathtaking views, Kenya’s Top 10 Most Beautiful Cities to Visit.

Safari tips and advice to Eldoret: You should think about going to Eldoret if you love to remain in areas with cool, temperate weather. Although it is mostly hassle-free, the weather there is frequently gloomy and cold.

Nakuru is the fourth-largest town in Kenya and 160 kilometers north of Nairobi city , Kenya’s capital. Agriculture, industry, retail, and tourism are all thriving industries in this area. The hamlet is close to the magnificent Lake Nakuru National Park and the well-known Rift Valley Sports Club. The cosmopolitan metropolis is home to sizable colleges, medical facilities, and a range of lodging options. Visitors can easily experience local culture because there are lively Kenyan villages all around the urban center.

Other enjoyable activities and destinations may be found close to Nakuru city, in addition to visiting the well-known Nakuru National Park . They consist of the following:

• Visiting and Exploring the Hyrax Hill Museum.
• Hiking to the Menengai Crater and Caves.
• Travel and visiting Lake Baringo and Lake Bogoria.
• Make some time and Stay at the Lake Elementaita Lodge.
• Visit and Explore the Hell’s Gate National Park.
• Canoeing and boat ride on Lake Naivasha.
• Hiking to Mount Longonot and Table Mountain.
• Visiting Lord Egerton’s Castle.

The third-largest city in Kenya is Kisumu, which is situated in the larger Lake Victoria basin. It is a popular tourist destination in western Kenya , with tourist attractions like the Kisumu Museum and Kisumu Impala Sanctuary . The city is home to several natural resources as well as the rice and sugar industries. It is one of the urban regions in Kenya that is expanding the fastest and boasts an international airport, a decent road system, and recently built health facilities.

Every year, hundreds of tourists travel to Kisumu to see the city’s prominent sights, including the Kisumu Museum, Kit Mikayi, and Lake Victoria. The city’s convenient position, which makes it simple to travel to neighboring East African towns like Kampala city in Uganda , and Kigali city in Rwanda is part of what makes it such a treat to visit.

Kenya’s coast capital. Mombasa , the country’s second-largest city and primary port, is situated along the Kenyan coast. It also has some of the top tourist attractions in the region, including historical monuments, marine parks, and beaches.

This city serves as the center of coastal settlements and is a year-round favorite with tourists. Visit the North Coast is among the top sights and activities around Mombasa (Kilifi, Watamu, Malindi, and Lamu). Other attractions and activities that can be visited in Mombasa and nearby Mombasa includes:

• Traveling to the South Coast (Diani beach).
• Exploring forests, beaches, and marine parks.
• Studying the past of old towns.
• Scuba diving and snorkeling.

Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, is one of the continent’s most important financial centers. Numerous Kenya tourist destinations , including tranquil parks, great animal sanctuaries, and incredible museums, can be found in the city.

Nairobi offers a range of lodging options, including five-star hotels, apartments, hostels, and guesthouses. When it comes to lodging, you can pay as little as $25 per night in a 3-star hotel and as much as $350 in a 5-star hotel when you’re in safari tour to this city. Additionally, it is the location of numerous schools, colleges, universities, hospitals, and shopping centers. The city features a wide variety of entertainment venues that enhance living, particularly at night. Its transportation infrastructure consists of a network of roadways, a railway line, highways, and airports, Kenya’s Top 10 Most Beautiful Cities to Visit.

If you’re on vacation, there are lots of things you can do around the city. We strongly advise you to visit Nairobi National Park , which is located inside the city.

• Top 10 Tourist Destinations In Kenya

Kenya is an East African country known for its wildlife and breathtaking destinations. It is home to some of the most enchanting safari adventures in the world. Apart from wildlife, the country boasts of a rich cultural heritage of its people such as the Maasai and Samburu who continue to live a traditional lifestyle. The great migration of Wildebeests in the Masai Mara is one of the marvels that tourists come to see.

In addition, the country has beautiful landscapes and natural features such as the Great Rift Valley and the only snow-capped equatorial peaks on Mount Kenya. Here are top 10 destinations for tourists in Kenya.

10. Nairobi City

Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya and also the largest city in the country and East Africa. It is home to the Nairobi National Park which is the only national park inside a city in the world. Museums such as the Nairobi National Museum and Karen Blixen Museum are popular destinations for tourists who want to know more about the country and continent at large. The Giraffe Center at the Giraffe Manor is a popular spot for travelers who can feed these animals from their hands during close-up encounters.

9. Maasai Mara National Reserve

Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most famous game reserves in the world. It is a northern extension of the Serengeti reserve in Tanzania. The game reserve is known for the great Migration of zebras, wildebeest, and gazelles as they cross to and fro the Mara River into the Serengeti between July and October.

8. Mombasa City

Mombasa is a coastal city in Kenya and the second-largest. It is a multicultural city with diverse populations of locals, Arabs, Indians, and Europeans. The city is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, museums, and historical places such as The Old Town and Fort Jesus. The architecture here is also influenced by various cultural mixes of Arabs, Europeans, and local styles.

7. Samburu - Shaba

The Samburu and Shaba national reserves are unique ecosystems that depend on the Ewaso Nyiro River. Unique animals adapted to this environment include the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostriches, and long-necked antelopes known as gerenuks. The Sarara Singing Wells in Samburu National Reserve is a place to witness the local community warriors singing and performing traditional songs as they draw water for their cattle.

6. Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park is known for its spectacular flocks of pink flamingoes which throng on the lake itself to source minerals from the soda lake. The park is home to over 450 species of birds and includes other wildlife as well. Visitors can also see lions, cheetahs, waterbucks, hippos and white rhinos. The park also has the largest euphorbia candelabrum forest in the continent.

5. Hell's Gate National Park

Hell’s Gate National Park is an excellent spot for tourists who are interested in rock climbing, camping, and hiking. It includes two extinct volcanoes, Obsidian caves, Hell’s Gate Gorge and Fischer’s Tower. The park also has geothermal features such as geysers, and hot springs. Wildlife is also a major attraction in the park.

4. Tsavo National Parks

The Tsavo National Park is Kenya’s largest National park and is divided into two: Tsavo East and Tsavo West. In totality, the park comprises about 4 percent of the country’s total area. The national park is home to volcanoes, rivers, lava-rock plateau, Savannah, waterfalls among a myriad of other landscape features. Tourists visit the park to enjoy the beautiful and unaltered sceneries. Tsavo East is home to one of the largest elephant herds which can be seen roaming the landscape and bathing in the red soils.

3. Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park is home to large herds of elephants and home to famous big cats such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Other animals found in the park include the Impala, waterbuck, gazelle, and giraffe. There are over 600 bird species in the park which offers excellent bird watching.

2. Mount Kenya National Park

Mount Kenya National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the country’s name is derived from this tall mountain. Mount Kenya’s peak is covered with snow despite its location on the equator forming a rare sighting of snow. The mountain contains beautiful glacial sceneries, mineral springs, mountain lakes, alpine forests and thick bamboo. Wildlife such as buffalo, lion, elephant, leopard, hyena and the white Columbus monkey can be found here. The Mount Kenya Safari Club is a popular destination for tourists looking for a luxury retreat.

1. Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

Lewa Downs Conservancy is located in the northern foothills of Mount Kenya. The conservancy started out as a cattle ranch and became a black rhino sanctuary in 1995. Today, it is one of the most renowned conservancies in the world. It is a Private Game sanctuary owned by the Craig family since 1924 after convincing the locals to stop seeing wildlife as competition for grazing land but instead as a source of income. Lewa Conservancy is one of the most important sanctuaries for the endangered black rhino.

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Nairobi Travel Guide: 24 Top Things to do in Nairobi Kenya

Last updated: August 30, 2023 - Written by Jessica Norah 34 Comments

We want to share a guide to the top things to do in Nairobi, Kenya. Nairobi is the capital and largest city in Kenya. The city has grown from a rail depot in 1899 to a city of millions. It is the business, finance, and cultural hub of Kenya.

Most safari-bound visitors in Kenya spend at least one night in Nairobi, which is known as the “Safari Capital of the World”. However, many travelers spend little if any time actually exploring the city itself. The city is often used just as a place to stay before or after a flight rather than as a destination to explore.

We think there are two main reasons that people don’t explore Nairobi. One is lack of time. Many plan a packed safari schedule focused on wildlife viewing with no time set aside to explore Nairobi. The second is fears related to safety and crime. Nairobi isn’t the safest city in the world, but you can safely explore the city if you take precautions.

Nairobi has a lot of visitor attractions, including museums, wildlife attractions, markets, cultural performances, parks, hiking trails, and great dining options. If you are interested in history, African art, wildlife, music, hiking, food, crafts, trains, gardens, or shopping, you are sure to find something of interest to do and see in the city.

It is also a city where you can really learn about Kenya, whether you are interested in colonial history, Kenyan independence, or modern life in Kenya’s capital city. From the ritzy suburbs to the busy Central Business District to Africa’s largest slum area, Nairobi is a multi-faceted city worth exploring.

We’ve been lucky to have visited the city a few times now and have had the chance to visit a lot of the attractions in Nairobi. We have really enjoyed exploring the city and find it provides a nice change from spending time on safari. So we are excited to share our experiences and tips with you to help you plan your own visit to Nairobi.

In this post, we’ll cover the top things to do in Nairobi and tips for visiting each. We’ll include the most popular tourist spots as well as some lesser known places. We’ll also give you information and tips on getting to Nairobi, how to get around the city, where to stay in Nairobi, where to eat in Nairobi, how to book tours, and how to stay safe in Nairobi.

Table of Contents:

Getting to Nairobi

The main way that most international visitors get to Nairobi is by flying into the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), Kenya’s main international airport. But you can also reach Nairobi by train, car, or bus.

The main airport in Nairobi is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). It is likely that this is where you’ll be arriving into Kenya.

But if you are arriving from elsewhere in Kenya or East Africa, your flight may arrive at the smaller Wilson Airport in Nairobi.

To get from the airport to your hotel or downtown, you can take a taxi, a shared shuttle bus, an Uber, or book a private transfer. Your hotel may offer a free or paid airport shuttle, or you may already have a driver arranged with your safari company. If not, we recommend booking your airport transfer in advance as it tends to be the most hassle-free way.

If you decide to take a taxi, be sure to set a clear price with the driver before agreeing to the trip. Or consider booking an Uber in advance.

Currently, the railway system in Kenya only connects a small area of Kenya, mainly the cities of Nairobi and Mombasa. So the main travelers arriving by train into Nairobi are those who are arriving into Mombasa by plane or ship.

Historically, Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya were connected by train but the rail connections have been closed for many years.

You can find out information about routes and stations and book train tickets on the Kenya Railways website .

Buses are by far the cheapest way to travel around East Africa. There are long-distance buses that arrive into Nairobi from throughout Kenya as well as from Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. So I’d check online for options depending on where you are wanting to travel from or two.

For example, MASH bus , Modern , and Tahmeed Express are a few of the main bus companies that operate international routes around East Africa.

The Port of Mombasa is the main international seaport in Kenya and the biggest port in east Africa. Most international passenger and cruise ships arrive into this port.

From Mombasa, you can then take the train, a bus, hire a private driver, or drive to Nairobi.

If you have a driver and are arriving on a safari that begins in another country or you are driving yourself, then you may be arriving into Kenya via one of its land borders.

Kenya borders Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. However, the only countries you can currently enter Kenya from by land are Tanzania and Uganda. The open land borders change fairly regularly and if driving yourself, we recommend keeping updated on which land borders are open and the current requirements.

You’ll also want to check the legal driving requirements for Kenya to ensure you have the proper documentation to drive in the country.

Getting Around Nairobi

You have a lot of options for getting around Nairobi including taxis, public transportation, hiring private drivers, joining a tour, renting a car, and walking. We talk about each option below.

Taxis and Ride Sharing Apps

Taxis and ride shares are very popular ways for visitors to get around Nairobi. Although more expensive than public transit, these tend to be easier, safer, and more comfortable.

Taxis can usually be found waiting at the airports, train stations, street corners in the city center, and also around popular hotels, tourist sites, and shopping centers. Licensed taxis in Nairobi are either yellow or marked with a yellow stripe. Just note that many don’t use meters so you will want to agree on a price before you get in the taxi.

You can also use a ride-hailing app like Uber or Bolt to get a taxi. This makes the paying process much more secure as you can pay through the app without needing to exchange any cash. Options in an app may include private car rides, shared rides, and boda boda (motorbike) rides, so just make sure you choose the option you want.

We personally have used Uber multiple times in Nairobi without incident. We find this is often the best option for us, especially at night.

Walking is a particularly attractive option in the central parts of Nairobi, particularly the Central Business District. Many attractions are within walking distance and there are good sidewalks in most areas. If traffic is bad, it is often faster to walk than take a taxi or bus.

However, it is harder to walk in other areas of Nairobi where attractions are much more spread out and there is often a lack of good sidewalks. For those areas you are likely going to need to take a taxi, bus, or hire a driver. This is particularly the case when trying to visit the popular sites in Langata and Karen.

However, you want to be sure to take safety precautions if walking around the city as pickpocketing and robberies do occur (see Safety section). You should also be prepared for people, including children, coming up to you to try to sell you things, ask you for money, etc. These people are normally harmless but they can be annoying.

We don’t recommend walking around the city at night or walking in the higher crime neighborhoods. If unsure if walking is a good idea in a particular area, ask hotel staff, a driver, or your tour operator for advice.

For instance, on our last visit we stayed in the Kilimani neighborhood for several days and walked around Kilimani and the Central Business District a lot during the daytime. But we avoided walking around at night and chose to take taxis after dark.

Public Transportation

There are several forms of public transportation available in Nairobi, including buses, matatus , tuk tuks, and boda bodas . Most tourists don’t take public transit in Nairobi but it can be an inexpensive option for budget travelers and those wanting to experience more local transit options. Public transit can sometimes be the quickest option (e.g., boda bodas) but is not always the safest option.

Prices are often not regulated so prices can vary. Most of these options require cash to board and you’ll want to carry small bills as some may not offer change. Boda bodas can be paid for digitally if you use a ride hailing app. Some services, such as the public buses, may also accept local payment apps such as M-Pesa.

Public Buses

There are a few bus companies operating the city routes with the main one being the Kenya Bus Service (KBS), but newer operators like Citi Hoppa also offer bus services in the city. This is probably the safest of the public transit options for tourists.

Routes are generally noted on the side of the bus and the buses run many of the same routes as the matatus . You can check out routes and how to get from one place to another using apps and websites like Moovit . Google Maps is another option but seems to show fewer options compared to Moovit.

Matatus are privately-owned shared minibuses that operate along set routes and can legally hold up to 14 passengers. They are the most common form of public transit taken by locals in Kenya.

They are also probably the most noticeable of the forms of public transportation in Nairobi as they are often colorfully painted and decorated around a theme (e.g., sports teams, cartoon characters, famous rappers, Biblical scenes) and playing loud music.

These shared minibuses make a number of stops along set routes and the route is noted on the side of the buses. You can find out about the routes on this website . You pay the driver or conductor upon boarding in cash or by Mpesa.

The city is trying to phase out matatus due to poor safety records and so many of them are old and not in the best shape. The one we took in 2022 was rusting and seemed like it was on its last legs.

Generally, this is not a form of public transit that tourists take but it is an inexpensive option. You might also travel by matatus as part of a walking tour with a guide.

The boda boda, or motorbike taxi, is a common form of transportation throughout Kenya as the motorbikes are inexpensive and can move through traffic faster than cars or buses. We’ve seen everyone from students to businesspeople using them.

Motorbikes are a very important form of transportation in Kenya; however, they are not the safest form of transit. The government has been trying to better regulate them in recent years.

Personally, I can’t really recommend boda bodas as I have seen too many horrible motorcycle accident injuries working in hospitals to recommend them. However, if you do want to give them a go, I’d recommend using an app like SafeBoda or Uber to hail rides to better guarantee a licensed and safe driver. A driver should offer you a helmet and vest to wear and I would not recommend jumping on without a helmet.

Some tours may include transport by boda boda but it is not common.

A tuk tuk or auto rickshaw is another public transit option in Nairobi. These 3-wheeled vehicles are perhaps a safer alternative to the boda boda. However, they are slower and seem to mainly operate for those going shorter distances outside the city center. We for instance took one in Kibera with our guide to get from one side of the neighborhood to the other.

Driving Own Car

Driving is of course another way to get around if you have your own car or plan to rent one in Nairobi. You’ll want to ensure you are knowledgeable about local driving rules and regulations and we recommend choosing a hotel that offers secure and monitored parking.

There is normally free parking at most major tourist attractions and shopping centers; however, you’ll likely need to pay for parking in more central areas. You can find out more about paying for parking in Nairobi here .

We generally don’t recommend driving in Nairobi if you can avoid it. Nairobi is a busy and congested city and traffic in the city is often bad. Most of the main roads are in good condition; however, there is almost always roadwork going on and some of the roads away from the city center are in fairly poor condition with lots of potholes.

Private Drivers & Tours

Joining a tour or hiring a private driver is another common way for visitors to get around Nairobi. If you are visiting as part of a tour or safari, you may have a driver/guide for your time in Nairobi who will handle all your transport.

There are a lot of tours which you can join and be part of either a group or have a private guide who will take you to see Nairobi’s attractions. These generally include pick-up/drop-off from your accommodation as well as all transport throughout the day. These are convenient options that are perfect for people who don’t want to deal with public transit or taxi services. You can see a lot of Nairobi tour options here and here .

Hiring a private driver can be a good idea if you need a driver to visit several places. For instance, we hired a private driver on Laurence’s birthday as we had a day’s itinerary planned out with several stops over an 8-hour period. This made our day really stress-free and easy and our driver was great.

If you have just one day in Nairobi, you can check out our 1 day Nairobi itinerary which details each of the places we visited on our first trip. It also includes a number of small group tour and private tour options if you want to do a similar trip.

Kenya Travel Basics

In this section, we’ll cover all the basic travel info about planning your trip to Nairobi, including visas, electricity, money, language, weather, and clothing.

Most international visitors to Kenya will require a visa to enter the country. You should check your own government’s guidelines and those of Kenya for visa and entry requirements. You can apply online for an e-visa on Kenya’s government e-visa website here .

Note that if you are also visiting Uganda and/or Rwanda, you may want to apply for an East Africa visa instead. This visa covers Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. You can apply for this visa through the same website.

To enter Kenya, most travelers will need a valid e-visa, a passport valid for at least 6 months past their travel dates, a printout of their travel itinerary, a support letter (generally from your tour company or business hosting you), hotel booking details, and proof of planned departure (e.g., flight or booked safari itinerary). Many travelers may also be required to show proof of certain vaccinations against certain diseases such as yellow fever and COVID-19.

There are a lot of languages spoken in Kenya, but the main two are Swahili (Kiswahili) and English. Swahili is the most widely spoken language in Kenya, but English is also an official language and is widely spoken and understood. This is particularly true in Nairobi.

Tourists who don’t speak Swahili or English often hire a local guide who speaks their native language or hire a translator.

Communication

We just wanted to note that many drivers, guides, and small businesses in Kenya use Whatsapp messaging as the main way (and sometimes only way) to communicate. We recommend considering setting up a free Whatsapp account on your phone if you don’t already have one. This was the main way we communicated with our guides and drivers while in Kenya.

The currency of Kenya is the Kenyan shilling (Ksh). It is easy to find an ATM in Nairobi to take out local currency and we recommend using ones either at the airport or at a bank. Credit cards, as well as certain money transfer apps like M-Pesa , are widely accepted.

Foreign currencies, like the United States dollar, Euro, and British pound sterling are also regularly accepted in the tourism industry. The most accepted and most stable foreign currency in Kenya is the U.S. dollar. In fact, many tourist activities are priced in US dollars. So it is a good idea to have US dollars with you.

However, it costs money for locals to exchange foreign currency into local currency, so it is good to pay smaller businesses and to tip local guides in Kenyan shillings if possible.

In Kenya, we generally use USD to pay for things at hotels and tourist attractions and for large tips (e.g., main safari guide or driver). However, we generally used Ksh to tip local guides and staff, pay at markets and local restaurants, or to buy souvenirs. So it is good to have some of both currencies on you throughout your trip.

Some attractions, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic hit, started only accepting non-cash payments. But a couple of places we visited only accepted cash. So it is a good idea to have both a credit card (or M-Pesa) and cash on you while in Nairobi.

Electricity

Kenya operates on a 240V supply voltage and 50Hz and uses a Type G plug. So you will want to avoid packing any electronics that don’t support 240V.

If you are coming from a country that does not use a Type G plug (three-prong one found in the UK), you will need a travel adapter to plug in your electronics. You can pick up a few simple travel adapter plugs like these ones , or you can take some universal travel adapters like this one which work in most countries around the world.

The average annual temperature is around 66° F (18.5° C). Daytime temperatures rarely go below 50° F (10° C) or above 85° F (29° C).

February and March are typically the hottest months in Nairobi with an average temperature of 69° F (20.5° C) and the coldest months are July and August with an average temperature of 62° F (16.5°C).

Kenya has two rainy seasons, from March to May and from October to December. The rainiest month is April with a lot of rain also typical in May and November. So you’ll definitely want to be prepared for rain if visiting during the rainy season, but we’d recommend being prepared for rain no matter when you visit.

Nairobi is a city you can visit any time of the year. The weather is pretty temperate throughout the year, being warm during the days and cool at night. Most attractions in the city are open year-round to visitors.

How to Dress in Nairobi

We recommend wearing comfortable clothing in Nairobi that are suitable for the weather. It is often sunny in Nairobi so be sure to protect yourself from the sun and check the weather forecast for rain.

It is important to respect the local culture and customs while in Kenya, which means wearing clothing that is more loose-fitting and conservative. This means avoiding really tight-fitting clothing or clothes that are short, show off your stomach, or expose a lot of skin. However, although Kenyans may wear more conservative styles, they love color and bold patterns!

Now, while safari clothing and hiking boots are great to wear when on safari or hiking, we don’t recommend wearing those clothes when visiting Nairobi (unless you are going to Nairobi National Park). We recommend wearing your regular travel clothes and leaving your safari clothing in your suitcase while exploring the city.

For shoes, you’ll likely be walking around a lot so you’ll want comfortable walking shoes. It is also good if you wear shoes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty. Laurence and I wore Allbirds Tree Runners shoes during our last visit to Nairobi and they worked very well.

For more packing suggestions, see our guide to what to pack for safari which should help with your general packing list.

Travel Health

We love traveling in Kenya, but there are precautions you need to take to stay safe and healthy during your travels. These include avoiding untreated water, avoiding being bitten by mosquitoes, and making sure you are up to date on recommended vaccines and medications.

We highly recommend that you talk to your doctor or go to a travel clinic before your trip to see what vaccines and medication are needed or recommended. You can also discuss water safety, preventing mosquito bites, managing any existing conditions you may have, and traveling with medications.

We also highly recommend reading the health advice given by your local government for travelers to Kenya. You can see the U.S. CDC travel health information and recommendations to travelers here , and from the UK government here .

Water Safety

The tap water in Nairobi is not considered safe to drink for travelers by most government travel organizations. In Kenya, it is recommended that you only drink bottled water or tap water that has been boiled, treated, and/or filtered.

Drinking untreated water or eating unclean food can cause travelers’ diarrhea and other water-borne diseases, such as cholera, hepatitis A, polio, and typhoid. So you will want to take the normal precautions as you would when traveling to any destination with unsafe water, such as avoiding ice, unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables, unpasteurized dairy products, and cooked foods that are not served hot.

If you are wanting to avoid buying bottled water in Nairobi, you can read this article on safe drinking water when traveling for ways that you can treat water when traveling. We used a Grayl water filter bottle for filtering tap water for drinking, cooking (e.g, washing fruits), and brushing our teeth while in Nairobi on our last trip. This made it so that we didn’t need to buy any bottled water.

There are a number of vaccinations recommended for travelers to Kenya. You should talk to your doctor or go to a travel clinic before your trip to see what vaccines and medication are needed or recommended. These will depend on what parts of Kenya you are visiting, what you plan to do there, and your medical history.

I think before our last trip to Kenya, our doctor recommended 3 vaccine boosters for me and 2 for Laurence. We also got antimalarial medication to take throughout our trip.

You should make a travel health appointment at least 2 weeks prior to travel as some vaccines, such as the yellow fever vaccine, may take at least 10 days to be effective.

Proof of some vaccinations, such as yellow fever and COVID-19, may be required, depending on where you live, where you have traveled, and any recent disease outbreaks. Be sure to check the latest requirements.

There are mosquitoes in Nairobi although the risk of malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases if bitten is typically very low in the capital according to the WHO and other health organizations. The number of mosquitoes fluctuates based on rainfall, temperature, and time of year.

However, while the risk of getting malaria may be low in Nairobi, it is much higher in many other parts of Kenya. If you are visiting other parts of Kenya, you should talk to your doctor before your trip about antimalarial medications. Most visitors to Kenya take antimalarial medication during their trip and we have always done so.

But even if you are not worried about the risk of malaria in Nairobi, mosquito bites are annoying, itchy, and can transmit other diseases (e.g., yellow fever, dengue fever, Rift Valley fever, and chikungunya). We were bitten a few times on our 2022 trip in Nairobi because we forgot to use a mosquito net one night.

The best ways to prevent mosquito bites include using insect repellent with DEET , wearing long sleeved shirts and long pants, and using mosquito nets. Mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn.

Is Nairobi Safe for Tourists?

Nairobi is not considered the safest city and its rate of crime is often rated as “high” compared to other cities in the world. But it has improved from the days when it was referred to as Nairobbery due to the high crime rates. While it is of course impossible to predict crime or terrorism, by taking precautions you can travel safely in Nairobi.

You particularly want to be careful with securing valuables and being aware of your surroundings. The most common crimes against tourists are pickpocketing, muggings, and carjackings. You also want to be skeptical of people approaching you asking to sell you something (e.g., cheap safaris or tours) or asking for donations for a good cause.

It is recommended that travelers avoid Nairobi neighborhoods where there is increased crime rates like Eastleigh and Kibera. We have visited Kibera but only during the day when accompanied by a guide.

Like in many major cities, we recommend taking extra precautions if out in the city at night. We always get a taxi or hire a driver if we need to get around at night.

It is best to carry around only the amount of money needed for your day so that if you are robbed, you won’t lose a great deal of money. If robbed, don’t resist, just give them what they want to avoid any physical escalation. It is also a good idea to have a money belt or similar separate place to hide your passport and a spare credit card.

If carrying a purse or bag, we recommend a cross-body one, a sling, or a fanny pack that is harder for someone to snatch and less likely for you to set down. If wearing a backpack, we recommend considering a small one with lockable zippers, such as the ones by PacSafe . We recommend carrying only what you need for the day.

Even if it may be fairly obvious that you are probably a tourist, you still want to avoid being too conspicuous by not carrying around big cameras, designer handbags, wearing expensive jewelry, etc. Best to leave your expensive gear and valuables at home or locked up at your hotel.

I’d also recommend avoiding holding out your smartphone while walking around, not only is it something that is easy to steal but it also distracts your attention. If you need to check your phone, do so before you set off or when in a safe spot. Also, it is always a good idea to have any important information and your photos backed up elsewhere so if your phone is lost, stolen, or damaged you still have all the data.

If walking around, especially in the city center, you will no doubt be approached by people trying to sell you cheap safaris and such. I’d recommend telling them politely but firmly that you are not interested and moving along. They will generally leave you alone but if you are feeling harassed or followed, I’d recommend going into a hotel, restaurant, or store to get rid of them or telling a nearby police officer or security guard.

Not all taxis and drivers in Nairobi are reputable. If you need a taxi, we recommend using a secure taxi-hailing app like Uber or Bolt. These make it so the prices are regulated and you can pay without needing to hand money to the driver. We have used Uber many times in Nairobi without incident.

Being stuck in traffic in Nairobi can attract street sellers, beggars, and thieves. When in a car, I’d recommend keeping your window rolled up and your door locked. If in a manatu , I’d keep hold of any bags or valuables to prevent thieves from snatching things.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions of your driver, hotel staff, local guides, tour operator, etc. about whether it is safe to do X or Y. If you are unsure if it is a good idea to walk or visit somewhere, it can be good to get a local opinion. Most people are very willing to give advice for visiting their city.

You want to be particularly cautious when traveling in Kenya around the time of elections or referendums as violence, rioting, and ethnic tensions in the country often escalate during these periods. If you are visiting at a more tense or politically unstable time, it is probably safer to stick to guided activities. However, thankfully, even though the 2022 presidential election was contested, it was a fairly peaceful transition of power.

It is a good idea to check with your local government’s advice on traveling to Kenya and take that into consideration. For example, at the time of writing, the U.S. Department of State recommends avoiding the Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera due to increased crime there. On many government agency websites, such as the U.S. travel alerts , you can also sign up for travel alerts by text or email to get updates while traveling.

We always recommend making sure you have travel and medical insurance coverage. If you experience a crime, you should report it to the local police. Even if they aren’t likely to be able to help (e.g., pickpocketing), you will likely still need a copy of a report for your insurance. For more serious issues, you may also want to contact your country’s embassy or consulate who can help direct you to further resources.

While the above may make Nairobi sound scary, we have visited Nairobi several times without any incidents. We have walked around a lot in the city on our own, especially around the Downtown area. We have hired local drivers, taken local transportation, and used Uber. We have done both guided and unguided visits to most of the city’s main attractions. We have also gone shopping on our own at both shopping centers and local markets.

Although we have traveled more independently in Nairobi than most foreign visitors, we still take the precautions we note above. The main thing we have experienced is people coming up to us to beg for money, try to convince us to follow them and visit their shop, or trying to sell us cheap safaris. Sometimes they are pretty persistent and annoying, but generally, they will leave you alone if you are firm and move away.

We recommend that those who are concerned about safety stick to guided tours or hire a private guide or driver. Guides can not only make travelers feel safer, but they can also help make everything run smoother and can provide invaluable background and context to the places you visit. But also remember that even a guide can’t always prevent things like purse snatching or pickpocketing, so you still need to use personal caution.

How Much Time Should I Spend in Nairobi?

How much time you want to spend in Nairobi will likely be determined by your interests and the length of your trip. There are lots of things to do and see in Nairobi and you can easily spend several days in the city as we have.

As the capital and largest city in Kenya, we definitely think that Nairobi deserves at least one full day of your trip. No matter your interests, whether it is history, culture, wildlife, shopping, art, or food, you are likely to find things that appeal in the city.

Personally, I’d recommend having at least 2 full days in Nairobi. That will give you time to see many of the highlights of the city. But you can still see quite a lot if you just have one full day. You can check out our earlier article to see our tips for how to spend one day in Nairobi which includes a detailed stop-by-stop suggested itinerary.

If you have a safari that begins or ends in Nairobi but your safari itinerary doesn’t include any sightseeing in Nairobi, you can easily book a guided day tour of the city such as these available online here or here . Or you can explore independently on your own. You may want to arrange to come into the city a day or two early or stay later to have time for sightseeing before or after your safari.

Where to Stay in Nairobi?

We recommend choosing your location based on the places you want to go in Nairobi, especially if you only have a short time in the city. Generally, we would recommend staying either in or near the Downtown area of Nairobi or in one of the western neighborhoods like Lang’ata or Karen.

Nairobi has a very wide range of accommodation options including hotels, guesthouses, hostels, apartments, and home rentals. Prices range from cheap $30 budget stays to $3,000 per night luxury stays. We have found it very easy to find mid-range accommodation during our stays in Nairobi.

If booking accommodation in the more budget range, just be sure to read recent reviews, check the details to see what is included, and make sure in an OK area of the city.

We generally recommend booking accommodation that includes an on-site restaurant (or cooking facilities if booking an apartment or hostel) as then you always have the option to eat your evening meal there. Even if you plan to eat out elsewhere, this gives you a very convenient backup option if you don’t feel like going out at night.

Downtown Nairobi and the Westlands

The Downtown area or Central Business District (CBD) is a great area for those planning to visit central attractions like the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, City Market, Jamia Mosque, Maasai markets, Central Park, Uhuru Park, Nairobi National Museum, Railways Museum, and downtown shopping. The Westlands area , located just north of the center, is also a good place to check and is a popular area for expats.

Here are some lodging options in both the CBD and Westlands areas:

• Stanley Hotel – The Stanley Hotel was Kenya’s first luxury hotel, dating back to 1902. This 5-star hotel offers 3 restaurants, a bar, a fitness center, a pool, and on-site private parking. It is located right in the heart of the Central Business District. If you are looking for a historical hotel in a central downtown location this is one to consider.
• The Norfolk – This 5-star Fairmont property is another one to consider if you enjoy historical hotels as the hotel is situated in a 19th century colonial building surrounded by gardens in the northern part of the CBD. It offers several restaurants, a fitness center, a pool, and 24-hour front desk.
• Hilton Nairoi – This 4-star hotel is a good option for business travelers and conference attendees who want to be super close to the KICC. The hotel offers on-site restaurants, bar, fitness center, business faciltiies, spa, pool, and 24-hour front desk. The hotel is located in the CBD and is just a short 5-minute walk from the KICC building.
• Best Western Plus – This hotel is a solid mid-range option located in the CBD. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar, a fitness center, and a swimming pool.
• YWCA – If you are traveling on a small budget, this YWCA is located just outside the CBD may be an option to check out. It offers private rooms and an on-site cafeteria.
• Nairobi Serena Hotel – This is another 5-star hotel that is located just outside the CBD, offering spacious rooms, on-site restaurants, bar, fitness center, pool, and 24-hour front desk. This hotel is part of the popular Serena hotel brand that has hotels throughout East Africa.
• Villa Rosa Kempinski – The Villa Rosa is a lovely 5-star option in the Westlands area, offering spacious rooms, on-site restaurants, spa, fitness center, 24-hour desk, and swimming pool.
• Lotos Inn & Suites – This mid-range hotel in the Westlands offers spacious suites, an on-site restaurant, rooftop lounge, and free private parking. Close to a number of restaurants and shopping centers.

Western Neighborhoods of Nairobi

Lang’ata and Karen are both good locations for popular tourist attractions such as the Giraffe Centre, Uhuru Gardens, Karen Blixen Museum, Bomas of Kenya, Carnivore Restaurant, Kazuri Beads factory, and Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage. It is also a good location for those visiting Nairobi National Park.

Another good area to consider is the areas just west of Downtown Nairobi which put you in between the Central Business District and the areas of Lang’ata and Karen. These include areas like Lavington and Kilimani . Good areas for those visiting attractions in both of these areas and where we often choose to stay.

Here are some accommodation options in the western suburbs of Nairobi:

• Hemingways Nairobi – This 5-star luxury boutique hotel located in Karen offers an on-site restaurant, bar, spa, swimming pool, and private butler service. All rooms are suites. This is one of the more luxurious properties in Nairobi.
• Karen Gables – This 4-star Karen lodging option offers a luxury B&B experience in a beautiful Dutch Cape style private home. Offers an on-site restaurant, lounge, and swimming pool.
• Tamarind Tree Hotel – This 4-star hotel in Langata offers an on-site restaurant, bar, swimming pool, fitness center, and garden. The famous Carnivore restaurant is on the grounds, a short walk away. Great location for lots of Langata and Karen attractions, Wilson airport, and Nairobi National Park.
• Palacina The Residence & Suites – This great mid-range option in Kilimani offers both suites and private apartments. The property offers an on-site restaurant, fitness center, and swimming pool.
• The Social House – This mid-range 4-star hotel is located near the Lavington area and offers an on-site restaurant, swimming pool, fitness center, and garden.
• Margarita House – This guest house located in Karen offers an on-site restaurant, swimming pool, and garden. A reasonably priced option in the pricey Karen area.
• Lavington Hill House – This 3-stars guesthouse in Lavington has an on-site restaurant and bar and is surrounded by leafy gardens. Before it became a boutique hotel, it was the official state residence of the President of Southern Sudan. This was the very first place I stayed in Nairobi years ago.
• Pori City Hotel – This budget-friendly 3-star hotel option in the Langata area offers an on-site restaurant, bar, business center, and a 24-hour front desk.

Near the Nairobi Airport

If you need to stay near the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) you can look for a hotel in the Embakasi area . This area is mainly residential. The closest hotels are the Sheraton Four Points and Crowne Plaza airport hotels. A lower-priced option near the airport is Kozi Suite s .

If you need to stay near the regional Wilson Airport, you can see the closest lodging options here , many are in the Lang’ata area. The closest hotel to Wilson Airport is the Weston Hotel and another good nearby option is the Tamarind Tree Hotel . The Pinkroses Garden Hostel is a well-rated budget option in this area.

Nairobi National Park

There is currently only one accommodation option (other than basic camping) located inside Nairobi National Park and that is Nairobi Tented Camp . The tented camp is a great place to stay if you want to be inside the national park and feel like you are on safari. Just note that you will need to pay the park fees each day of your stay in addition to the lodging costs.

If you are looking for a place away from the city, there are also several other hotels located on the southside of the park. A couple of good options located on the edge of the park include Ololo Safari Lodge and Nyati Hill Cottages . They are situated overlooking the escarpment of the national park and you often see wildlife without leaving the property. Great places to relax and to stay for visiting Nairobi National Park, but not the best location for visiting downtown attractions.

Neighborhoods in Northern Nairobi

If you are just looking for the safest neighborhoods in Nairobi, then Gigiri and Muthaiga are two northern suburbs which are often rated as the safest places to live in Nairobi. They are close to Karura Forest as well as restaurants and shopping, but are further away from most tourist attractions.

There are a number of hotel and apartment options in this area including the 5-star Tribe Hotel and well-rated mid-range Trademark Hotel and Magna Hotel & Suites . All are located in Gigiri.

Booking Tours in Nairobi

Most visitors book some kind of tour or driver for sightseeing in Nairobi. You can visit just about any of the recommended attractions as part of a tour. There are a lot of tour options for both those wanting to join a small group tour and those looking for a private tour.

As always, when booking any type of tour, be sure to note what is included/excluded and any restrictions before booking. Entrance fees and meals may not be included so you will want to plan and budget accordingly. Some tours may also have minimum age requirements or health restrictions.

Also be sure to check the tour’s cancellation policies. We normally book tours with either GetYourGuide or Viator which both offer a 24-hour cancellation policy for most tickets and tours. This means you can cancel a tour up to 24 hours before it starts and receive a full refund. This helps give us peace of mind if our travel plans unexpectedly change.

If you are looking for a tour in Nairobi, here are a list of some popular Nairobi day tours (both small group and private tours) that may be of interest. These cover a wide range of Nairobi’s top attractions:

• This 6-hour guided tour includes a game drive at Nairobi National Park and visits to the Giraffe Centre and the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage.
• This flexible private tour includes a downtown city tour, which can include stops to see the City Market, Kenya National Archives, and KICC rooftop, and lunch at Carnivore.
• This full-day tour includes visits to the Giraffe Centre, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage, Kazuri Beads factory, and the Karen Blixen Museum. This is very similar to the tour I took on my first visit to Nairobi.
• This full-day tour includes visits to the Giraffe Centre, David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, Kazuri Beads, and Bomas of Kenya.
• This 4-hour private downtown tour includes stops at the Nairobi National Museum, Railway Museum, City Market, and KICC rooftop. Tour is flexible.
• This downtown walking tour of the Central Business District is led by former street children who guide you through the downtown while telling their stories. Also includes a local lunch stop.
• This half day tour includes a visit to the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Centre, and Kazuri Beads.
• This half day private tour of Nairobi National Park includes a guided game drive, safari vehicle, and hotel pick up and drop off. Or save money by joining a similar small group tour of the park.
• This private tour includes transport, a guide, and entrance fees to visit the Bomas of Kenya.
• This guided tour of Kibera allows you to learn about and tour Africa’s largest slum area with a local guide who runs a non-profit organization.
• This guided full day shopping tour of Nairobi allows you to visit a number of shops, markets, and craft centers in Nairobi.

Now, if you are planning on doing a multi-day safari in Kenya, you should definitely research and book one before you leave home. It is possible to visit some of Kenya’s national parks (other than Nairobi National Park) as part of a day trip from Nairobi, but I’d recommend tours that stay overnight or longer so you are not rushed.

Popular places you can go on a safari within a relatively short drive of Nairobi are Lake Naivasha National Park (~2.5 hours drive), Lake Nakuru National Park (~3.5 hours), Amboseli National Park (~4 hours), and the Maasai Mara (~4.5 hours).

Top 24 Things to Do in Nairobi

Nairobi has a lot of attractions, including wildlife centers, museums, parks, gardens, and markets. We recommend using this list to choose the places you most want to visit so you can put together your own Nairobi itinerary.

Here is our list of top things to do in Nairobi:

Nairobi City Tour

A city tour with a local guide is a great way to see Nairobi if you are a first-time visitor. It is especially nice to explore the downtown area with a local guide to learn more about the city.

There are both walking tours and driving tours that you can join, depending on how you want to get around. You can hire a private guide or join a small group tour. The private tours are often flexible in terms of where they visit so you can choose from a list of attractions that best suit your interests. But you can save money by joining a group tour if it goes to the places you want to visit.

These tours are usually focused on the downtown Central Business District and often include visits to local landmarks, public parks and gardens, markets, the KICC building, museums, and other city attractions. They may or may not also include lunch.

You can check for available city tours in Nairobi here , as they vary in time, where they visit, what they include, and the forms of transportation. For example, this half day city orientation tour includes both private transport and walking (if you want). This tour also includes lunch at Carnivore.

For those interested in walking and getting closer to the city’s landmarks and people, you might consider this popular downtown walking tour , this storytelling tour , or this walking food tour .

Nairobi National Museum

Nairobi National Museum is a great general museum to visit while in the city. The museum has been around in some form for over 100 years, first set up in colonial Kenya by the British. It carried on after independence and has been expanded and updated over the years. It is the flagship museum of the National Museums of Kenya.

The museum has a number of different galleries that each focus on a theme such as Kenyan history, mammals, birds of East Africa, cultural anthropology, human evolution, money, art, and musical instruments. There are also changing temporary exhibitions.

A couple of displays that international visitors often know about are the skeleton of Ahmed the elephant (one of the most famous elephants in the world) and the Joy Adamson Gallery (known for her book Born Free and the movie of the same name).

There is a fee to visit the museum. You can do a self-guided visit on your own or hire a guide. The museum is located in central Nairobi, just north of the Central Business District and just south of the Westlands.

In addition to the museum, you’ll also find the Museum Botanical Gardens, a nature trail, and the Snake Park at the same location. Visiting the Botanical Gardens and walking along the nature trail are free to do and worth doing if the weather is nice. But there is an extra fee to visit the Snake Park (you can buy a combo ticket), which includes a number of snakes and other reptiles on display. You can check rates online here .

Also here at Museum Hill you’ll find places to eat, gift shops, and the Louis Leakey Memorial Institute auditorium. You can easily spend half a day here.

Nairobi National Museum would be our top pick if you are looking for just one museum to visit in Nairobi. It is a good general museum and a great place to learn more about the country with a wide variety of displays.

Nairobi National Park is unique as it is the only wildlife park located within a capital city. It is located just 10 km south of the downtown area of Nairobi. It is one of the few places in the world where you can spot animals with a city landscape in the background.

Although a somewhat compact park, it has over 100 species of mammals. It has 4 of the Big Five animals; the park does not have any elephants. It has many of the animals that people come to Kenya to see, including lions, leopards, giraffes, zebra, cheetah, hyenas, rhinos, hippos, impala, baboons, and crocodiles. Over 400 bird species have been recorded here.

If you plan to visit the park, we recommend going early and visiting in the morning. Many of the animals and birds are more active in the cooler morning hours. You can obviously see more if you have a full day. But if you just have half a day for visiting, we recommend choosing the morning rather than the afternoon to visit.

You can drive your own vehicle or hire a guide. We highly recommend going with a driver guide who knows the park and in a proper safari vehicle with a pop-up roof. A good guide can really help you see more and better identify the animals and birds you do see.

If you are looking for a half day morning game drive with a driver in Nairobi National Park, you might check out this popular small group tour or this private tour . These tours normally include pick-up from your hotel or the airport. Just note that the tour fees often do not include the national park entrance fees.

Lots of full-day Nairobi tours include a morning game drive of 3 to 4 hours in Nairobi National Park followed by visits to other attractions in the area such as the Giraffe Centre, Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage, Karen Blixen Museum, and/or Bomas of Kenya. You can see a list of available tours here .

We spent a full day at the park and were very happy with the variety of animals and birds that we saw, and were particularly happy to have seen a number of rhinos. According to my journal, we saw 5 lions, black rhinos, white rhinos, giraffe, hippos, zebra, warthogs, crocodiles, buffalo, wildebeest, dik dik, impala, Thomson’s gazelle, Grant’s gazelle, hartebeest, eland, baboons, vervet monkeys, ostrich, guinea fowl, secretary birds, African fish eagles, kingfishers, kestrels, storks, egrets, and lots of other birds.

I think Nairobi National Park is an underrated park and we really enjoyed our time here. However, if you are coming back to Nairobi after a long safari trip, it may seem a little underwhelming compared to places like the Maasai Mara. But this is a great national park, especially if you are at the beginning of your time in Kenya.

There are a couple of areas within the park where you can stop and leave the vehicle on foot. One site we recommend stopping is the ivory burning site which contains information placards telling about the ivory burning that has taken place by the government here. Another area where you can stop is at a walking trail that takes you around the hippo pools.

The park has several picnic areas with toilet facilities, and we stopped at one to have a picnic lunch. Just be careful to watch for monkeys if you plan to eat outside your vehicle. For those not planning to bring food, there was a cafe that served food located just inside the main gate park entrance.

It is possible to stay overnight at Nairobi National Park. There are public campsites with basic facilities or you can stay at Nairobi Tented Camp .

The park fees can NOT be paid with cash, so be sure to bring an acceptable credit card or you can also use M-Pesa to pay for your entrance fees. Day fees allow for 12 hours within the park. You can check opening hours, park rules, and the latest park fees here .

Also located within the wider park area is the Nairobi Safari Walk. This is located near the main park gate and is geared to families with children. There is a raised platform viewing area where you can walk around and see a variety of mammals, reptiles, insects, and birds. The animals here are part of the park’s animal orphanage. The Safari Walk Children’s Museum is also located here. There are separate fees for visiting the Nairobi Safari Walk. You can find out more here .

Giraffe Centre

The Giraffe Centre is an educational center run by the non-profit organization African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW). The AFEW was founded in 1979 by Jock and Betty Leslie-Melville to try to save the Rothschild’s giraffe through breeding, research, conservation, and education.

The Rothschild’s giraffe was the most endangered of the giraffe subspecies. At the time, there were only 130 of them left in Kenya and today there are over 300.

They started the program with a pair of young giraffes, Daisy and Marlon, who they brought to their home in the Lang’ata suburb of Nairobi. The center expanded and opened as an education center to the public in 1983.

As a visitor, you have an opportunity to get up close and feed the resident giraffes. I think there are currently about 10 giraffes here. They also have a family of warthogs you can see and feed as well that live with the giraffes.

After paying entry, you’ll be given a handful of pellets that you can feed to the giraffes while walking along a large viewing platform. The platforms are raised so that you are standing face-to-face with the adult giraffes and you can offer your pellets to the giraffes. They’ll eat them out of your hand. You’ll find that their tongues are wet and rough!

In addition to watching and feeding the giraffes and warthogs, we also recommend learning more about the giraffes by taking a look at the small exhibition and going to one of the free educational talks or lectures. These short talks about giraffes take place regularly in the small auditorium. If one is not happening, you can normally ask a staff member on the platform and say you are interested in one.

There is also a nature trail here that you can follow to see local plants, birds, and animals. It is located across the road from the Centre entrance and you can ask staff to point you in the right direction if you have any issues finding the starting point.

There is also a small tea room and a gift shop located on site. The center is normally open daily for public tours and visits from 9:00am – 5.00pm. You can check the latest opening hours and visitor fees here .

The Giraffe Centre is a popular stop to include on many group and private tours of Nairobi. it is easy to combine a visit here with a number of other attractions, including the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage, Nairobi National Park, Bomas of Kenya, Utamaduni Shops, Kazuri Beads, and/or Karen Blixen Museum. If you are looking to join a tour, you can see a number of options here .

I’ve visited the Giraffe Centre twice and enjoyed my time here. Just be aware that this is a very popular stop for school groups (as is the Elephant Orphanage and Mamba Village) so it can get very busy here. I’d allow at least 30 minutes here if you just want to see and feed the giraffes, but I’d allow 1 hour to 1.5 hours if you also want to do the lecture and explore the nature trails.

If you really love giraffes and have a healthy lodging budget, you can also spend the night at the nearby Giraffe Manor and enjoy seeing giraffes on the front lawn. This is the former home of Jock and Betty Leslie-Melville that has been turned into a boutique hotel by the new owners.

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage

If you love baby elephants, then you definitely should plan a visit to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage where you can see a number of baby elephants and learn about their care and the plight of elephants in Kenya.

Daphne and David Sheldrick were pioneer conservationists in Kenya and this wonderful elephant and rhino nursery and sanctuary was established in the 1970s. Located within a section of Nairobi National Park, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust provides care and a home to dozens of orphaned baby elephants and rhinos from all over the country with the goal of being able to release them back into the wild. Once the orphans reach a certain age and independence, they are moved to one of the three reintegration units to start the process of being released back into the wild.

Of course, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust does a lot more than run the Orphans’ Project. They are also involved in anti-poaching, aerial surveillance, providing veterinary care, community projects, education, and much more. While there is a focus on elephants and rhinos, the trust has projects that help wildlife of all kinds. Their goal is to “work to ensure a sustainable future for all wildlife, habitats, and communities.”

If you haven’t read Daphne Sheldrick’s memoir Love, Life and Elephants , I highly recommend reading it before your visit here. It is a great read and it will better help you understand the elephant orphanage, the Sheldricks, and the history of wildlife conservation in Kenya.

Visitors can visit the Elephant Orphanage daily at 11:00am to watch the public feedings of the young elephants and learn more about the mission of the trust. After parking, checking in, and paying, you follow a path to a large fenced dirt area. There are typically hundreds of visitors each day but the space is pretty large so you can still stake out a good view-point.

After a brief introduction, the first group of baby elephants are led in, these are the youngest of the elephants. You get to watch as they are fed bottles by the handlers, play in the water and dirt, and roam around the area. After the first group are led back to the stables, another group of older young elephants are led in and the feeding process is repeated.

During the feeding, a staff member with a microphone explains the goals of the trust and gives you some information about the individual resident baby elephants and rhinos. The baby black rhinos are not typically part of the visits.

We’d recommend wearing practical closed-toed shoes, sun protection (there is little shade here), and clothes that you would be OK with getting a little dirty. The elephants will sometimes come up and push against the ropes. You are allowed to touch them if they come close but you need to be careful as they weigh a ton. The elephants also love to splash around in the water and mud, especially the older ones. They also sometimes decide to spray mud all over visitors. One lady standing near us got covered in mud on our last visit. We experienced several small splashes.

The main reasons that elephants and rhinos become orphaned are poaching, habitat loss, natural causes, human conflicts, and drought. It is sad to hear about how elephant and rhino poaching is still a problem in Kenya (and many other African nations), mainly driven by Chinese demand for ivory and horn. Drought seems to be an ever-increasing reason as Kenya experiences prolonged periods of drought, which is causing both human and wildlife suffering across the country.

The cost of raising just one orphan elephant is ridiculously expensive. For those who want to contribute more to protecting the elephants, anyone can make a donation to adopt an orphan for a minimum annual donation of $50.00, which entitles donors to receive detailed information and monthly updates about their orphan. We adopted a little elephant named Roho on our last visit.

Our visit here was not only an amazing chance to get very close to a bunch of cute baby elephants, but also a good way to learn about and support a truly wonderful organization.

I’ve gone to the 11am morning visitor hour twice now, once in 2014 and once in 2022. I enjoyed both visits a lot. Both visits were similar in terms of the actual presentation and experience; however, there were a couple of clear differences. In 2014, no booking was required and there were hundreds of visitors. But in 2022, we needed to pre-book our visit, there were health protocols in place, and there were under 100 people in attendance because of number restrictions.

The morning public entry visits take place daily at 11:00am and last for 1 hour. You are asked to arrive by around 10:30am to pay the entry fee and be assured entry. You must also be sure to follow the protocols set for ensuring a safe visit.

Note that the 5pm visits for donors/adopters/foster parents were stopped due to the COVID-19 pandemic starting in March 2020. No date has been announced for when or if these visiting times will resume.

Visitors must make advanced bookings (at least 48 hours in advance is advised) and pay a donation on the day of the visit. The minimum donation for entry is currently 1,500 Ksh or $15 USD  per person 12 years and above (this will change to $20 in June 2023), and Ksh 500 Ksh or $5 for children under 12 years of age. This is collected upon entry in either cash or via Mpesa (bring CASH, credit or debit cards will not be accepted!). You can see guidelines and make online bookings here .

During our last visit in 2022, several people were turned away for not booking in advance, not having cash to make payment, not having face masks (as required during our visit at that time), or showing up late. Please be sure to book in advance of your visit, read the guidelines, bring the correct cash, and arrive early.

Many people visit the Elephant Orphanage in Nairobi as part of a tour or with a driver. There are a lot of half day and full day tours that include a visit here, and you can check out tour options here . It is easy to combine a visit to the Elephant Orphanage with other places in western Nairobi including the Giraffe Centre, Bomas of Kenya, Nairobi National Park, or the Karen Blixen Museum.

Note that if you are booking a tour, the tour may or may not include pre-booked spaces and may or may not include the entry fee which is payable on the day of your visit. So be sure to check to ensure you are prepared.

Utamaduni Shops

If you are only going to stop at one place to buy souvenirs and local goods, I’d probably recommend stopping at Utamaduni Shops , also known as Utamaduni Craft Centre. This place has a huge selection of crafts, jewelry, linens, soaps, masks, art, clothing, woodwork, accessories, children’s toys, games, beauty products, and much more.

The first time I visited this place it just had a few small craft and curio shops but it has grown a lot and now offers a bit of everything. There are a few shops located outside, but most of the items are inside now. I was pretty surprised at how big the indoor part of the shop has become.

They also offer a lot of items from other popular shops in Kenya, including a good selection of jewelry from Kazuri Beads. This makes Utamaduni a good one-stop place to get local goods and souvenirs if you have limited time. Prices are set and marked so you don’t need to bargain like at the markets and many of the souvenir shops.

There is also a nice cafe and restaurant here with an outdoor seating area where you can enjoy a meal or just a coffee. There is also a little play area for kids in the garden.

Utamaduni Shops is located in the Langata area of Nairobi and is a convenient place to stop if you are in this area visiting places like the Giraffe Centre, Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage, and the Karen Blixen Museum.

Carnivore Restaurant

Carnivore is by far the most well-known restaurant in Nairobi and has become a popular tourist destination. It was opened in Nairobi in 1980 and offers an all-you-can-eat menu that is focused on roasted meats.

The restaurant became famous for serving some pretty unusual and exotic wild game meats, but because wild game meat has since been outlawed in Kenya, all meat served here is now farmed. So you’ll be offered typical meats like steak, leg of lamb, pork, and chicken, but there are also more unusual meats on offer like ostrich, crocodile, and bull testicles.

Carnivore has an unusual open-air setting with a large charcoal fire pit at one end of the restaurant. After you are seated, you are first served soup and bread. Then comes a tiered platter with a number of different salads and sauces. They also bring you a baked potato each. Then carvers bring around different meats skewed on Maasai swords on a rotating basis to your table. You can continue to eat for as long as you want.

Once you are finished eating, you are asked to admit defeat by lowering a white paper flag at your table. If you are capable of still eating more, you are then served dessert. I believe we had a choice from three different dessert options.

Everything is included in your meal price except your drinks. They offer a variety of soft drinks and alcoholic drinks. The specialty drink at the restaurant is the Dawa, a vodka cocktail invented here and popular across Kenya.

We enjoyed having dinner here and all the food was good except the bull testicles, neither of us could eat those. The ostrich meatballs were a favorite. Just keep in mind that this is a very popular tourist restaurant, with local travelers, international travelers, and tour groups so it is a busy place. We were surprised to see a lot of Kenyans eating here as well. Don’t come here for an intimate meal.

This is a place I’d recommend to meat eaters but not vegetarians. Apparently, there is a vegetarian menu option; however, given the focus on meats here I doubt many vegetarians or vegans are likely to have this restaurant on their itinerary.

The restaurant is located in the Langata area on the same grounds as the Tamarind Tree Hotel . It is open for both lunch and dinner. You can make reservations and we did so. However, it is a big place and normally reservations are not required unless you are part of a large group.

Also located here is the Simba Saloon nightclub and bar which operates on certain nights of the week offering live music. There are often themed musical nights at the nightclub.

A meal at the Carnivore is included in a number of popular tours of Nairobi such as this one which includes lunch at Carnivore and visits the Giraffe Centre and David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage. If you don’t have transportation, there are also a number of options you can book that include pick up at your hotel, your meal, and drop-off back at your hotel.

If you are looking for an alternative to Carnivore, this evening tour might be an option. It includes a dinner buffet at a local hotel focused on nyama choma and a 1 hour dance and acrobatics performance. This place attracts more Kenyans than Carnivore.

Go Shopping in Nairobi

If you want to shop in Kenya, there is no place better to go shopping than Kenya’s capital city. You have a wide range of shopping options in Nairobi from local craft markets to luxury boutiques. There are shopping malls, local markets, and souvenir and craft shops.

You can easily shop on your own, but if you need transport or feel intimidated by the markets you can also join a guided shopping tour of Nairobi that visits several shops and markets.

Nairobi Markets

There are lots of open-air and indoor markets in Nairobi. Some are formal markets and some are more informal roadside ones. Some markets have a bit of everything but others are focused on something such as fresh fruits and vegetables, secondhand clothing, or curios.

Some of the larger markets in Nairobi are Kariokor Market, City Market (mostly indoor), Gikomba Market (mostly secondhand clothing and accessories), Muthurwa Market, Toi Market, and Kenyatta Market. Some of the markets have Facebook pages or websites, but if not, you can ask a local about where and when to go.

You also have the popular Maasai Markets which are more geared to tourists and mostly carry things like art, crafts, and souvenirs. You can visit a Maasai Market on most days of the week but it moves to different locations. The biggest one in the city center happens each Saturday. See section on the Maasai Markets for more information.

At the markets, streetside vendors, and Maasai markets, haggling or bargaining is common and prices are often not set or marked. So be prepared to haggle on the prices for most goods.

Nairobi Shopping Centers

If you are looking for general shopping, there are a lot of shopping malls and shopping centers in Nairobi, including Yaya Centre, Westgate Shopping Centre, Sarit Centre, Village Market, Prestige Plaza, and The Junction Mall. Most are located in the wealthier suburban areas. Not only do these have a lot of stores and restaurants, but they also usually have supermarkets, banks, salons, pharmacies, movie theaters, and phone services as well.

If you spend any longer amount of time in Nairobi, you will almost inevitably end up at one of the city’s shopping malls whether you need clothes, a SIM card, a haircut, groceries, or money.

We’ve been to three or four shopping malls in Nairobi. These are easy places to shop and are very much like Western shopping malls with lots of stores under one roof, set prices, and security. So a great place for hassle-free shopping if you can’t handle the markets.

But I wouldn’t head to the Nairobi shopping centers expecting bargains. We were surprised by some of the prices in these stores, especially those selling imported clothing and goods. These malls mostly cater to wealthy locals and expats and prices were often similar or higher than what you’d pay in the USA or Europe.

Nairobi Craft & Souvenir Shops

If you are looking for local crafts and souvenir shopping, our top recommendation for a one-stop shopping destination is Utamaduni Shops located in western Nairobi. This place sells lots of crafts and souvenirs and has an onsite cafe. See our section on Utamaduni Shops for more info on visiting here.

Another great option is Spinner’s Web located in northern Nairobi. Spinner’s Web is a great place to go if looking for higher-end crafts and souvenirs from local vendors. They sell handicrafts, pottery, home decor, jewelry, art, fashion accessories, and more. They also have a cafe.

All prices are set at both Utamaduni and Spinner’s Web so no haggling is necessary. We have experienced good customer service at these shops. While you can of course find some of these items for sale at the city markets or other shops, these are convenient places to find them all together and not worry about haggling on prices.

Utamaduni is well-located for those visiting attractions around Lang’ata and Karen. Spinner’s Web is well-located for those staying in the Westlands or northern Nairobi suburbs.

Visit the KICC Rooftop

If you are looking for a view over Nairobi, then we recommend heading to the rooftop of the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC). The KICC is a 28-storey conference center located in the CBD.

The center was officially opened in 1973 and was designed by Norwegian architect Karl Henrik Nøstvik and Kenyan David Mutiso. The building was significant for its design, size, and its use of eco-friendly and locally available materials. At the time, it was the tallest building in Nairobi and one of the largest venues in eastern Africa.

The KICC is no longer the tallest building in Nairobi. The UAP Old Mutual Tower is currently the tallest building in Nairobi and while it does have an observation deck, we don’t think that it is currently open to public visitation.

The KICC is still a leading conference and meeting venue in Kenya. But it also attracts a number of tourists looking for great views from its rooftop. The rooftop is normally open to the public during the opening hours of the KICC, but can sometimes be closed for security reasons and private functions. There is a fee to visit the rooftop which was 500 Ksh when we visited in 2022. You can find out more about current fees and rules here .

To visit the KICC building you need to go through an airport-like security check at the gate entrance. Be sure to bring your passport or photo identification. You can then walk into the building itself.

Once inside the KICC building, you will want to buy a ticket at the Reception Desk for visiting the rooftop. A staff member will then take you to the correct elevator and push in the appropriate floor (or in some cases accompany you to the top). The elevator will take you up most of the way, but you will then need to climb several more flights of stairs to reach the very top.

Be sure to buy your ticket before entering the elevator and to keep your ticket as you will likely be asked for proof of a ticket by security in the stairway or on the roof.

On the rooftop, you will have a great 360-degree view of the Nairobi skyline. There is also a helipad located here on the rooftop. On the clearest days, you may be able to see Mount Kenya and even Mt. Kilimanjaro in the distance!

I’d allow at least 1 hour to visit the KICC rooftop. Although the rooftop is fairly small and can be visited rather quickly, security and getting to and from the rooftop can take longer than expected.

A number of tours of Nairobi that include the CBD area of Nairobi visit the KICC rooftop. You can see a list of guided tour options here .

Nairobi Railway Museum

The Nairobi Railway Museum is a museum run by Kenya Railways that focuses on the history of the railway in Kenya and how the railway shaped the development of Kenya. This museum was opened in 1971 and is a great place to visit for anyone interested in trains or the early history of Nairobi.

The railway played a significant role in the founding and early history of Nairobi. The city was originally just a rail depot set up for the Uganda Railway by the British in 1899. The area around the city was mostly uninhabited swampland but the city quickly grew and it became a major administrative hub. By 1907, Nairobi would replace Mombasa as the capital of Kenya.

In the museum, there is a posted quote by a senior British administrator, Sir Charles Elliot, in 1903: “It is not uncommon for a country to create a railway, but is uncommon for a railway to create a country.”

The museum has both an indoor part and outdoor exhibit area you can visit. The main indoor area details the history of the railway in Kenya from the 19th century to the present and showcases a number of railway and train artifacts, from maps to early push trolleys to claws from the man-eating lions of Tsavo to furniture and objects used by Queen Elizabeth II.

There is also one room that focuses on ships and water transport with a number of ship models. There is a focus on the World War I German cruiser Konigsberg as the museum has several artifacts from the shipwreck.

Outside, you can walk around and see a number of outdoor exhibits that includes various historic train locomotives, coaches, and other rolling stock. This includes the train carriage where the Railway Police Superintendent Charles Ryall was attacked and killed by the man-eating lions of Tsavo during the building of the Uganda Railway (“Lunatic Line”) and a steam locomotive used in the film Out of Africa . Some of the train exhibits are open and you can climb inside for a closer look.

There is also a small art gallery that you could visit and buy local art and souvenirs. There is also a children’s playground area and a mini-train that is sometimes operated for children; however, this area was closed during our last visit.

The Nairobi Railway Museum was probably our favorite museum in Nairobi as it is a nice compact size and we both like trains. The interior galleries are well-labeled in English and the staff were helpful when we had questions; however, many of the outdoor exhibits had minimal signs and information.

The museum is located on Workshop Road off Haile Selassie Avenue near the Kenya Railways headquarters. It is in central Nairobi just south of the CBD area. We did have some issues finding and getting to the museum entrance as our taxi driver dropped us off in the wrong place. We also had to walk through a fenced security area when on foot to reach the museum and sign in and out with passes. But we were guided in the right direction by asking railway staff and guards.

The museum is normally open daily from 8:00am to 5:00pm. There is an entrance fee to visit. You can find out more information by visiting the museum’s Facebook page .

Nairobi Gallery

The Nairobi Gallery is the main art gallery in Nairobi and it focuses on showcasing African art. It is located in central Nairobi near both Uhuru Park and Central Park. In fact, the gallery is located in the exact center as the atrium of the building was used as Point Zero from which the colonial government measured all distances in Kenya.

The building itself is interesting. It was originally built as the Ministry of Native Affairs in 1913. After independence, it became the Provisional Commissioner’s Office. The building was declared a national monument in 1995 and then given to the National Museums of Kenya. After a long renovation period, it was opened to the public as the Nairobi Gallery.

The main collection on display is made up of objects collected by the late Joeseph Murumbi and his British wife Sheila. Joseph Murumbi was a Kenyan politician and the second Vice-President of Kenya, and Sheila was a librarian and passionate collector. The couple amassed a large collection of art, postage stamps, jewelry, African artifacts, books, and other objects. They were co-founders along with Alan Donovan of Africa Heritage Gallery, Africa’s first Pan African gallery which operated globally from 1973 to 2003.

There are 6 main rooms within the gallery. The museum displays an eclectic mix of art and artifacts which includes sculptures, paintings, masks, currency, stamps, weapons, books, textiles, jewelry, photos, furniture, household objects, and more. Also on display are personal items, furniture, and photos of Joseph and Sheila Murumbi.

Parts of the Nairobi Gallery are used to display rotating temporary exhibits of contemporary African art. Some local art and children’s art was also available for purchase. When we visited, there was also a temporary exhibition dedicated to tribal related issues and violence during past elections. The exhibit shared stories from people across Kenya with the goal of promoting peace and fostering cooperation to solve future problems.

We really enjoyed our visit here and would recommend it to anyone interested in both art and African history and culture. Although full of objects, the museum isn’t too big so it’s easy to explore if you just have one or two hours. There is also a tea room on site where you can get coffee, tea, and snacks.

The museum is generally open daily from 8:30am to 5:30pm. There is a fee to visit.

Nairobi City Parks & Gardens

One of Nairobi’s nicknames is “The Green City in the Sun”. Nairobi offers a national park, forests, and a number of city parks and gardens. In this section, we’ll focus on the city’s public parks and gardens.

Nairobi has a number of public green spaces that you can visit, including several within the city center. They are popular places for locals to meet, play, picnic, commune with nature, and enjoy some downtime. They can also be a great place for you to enjoy when you need a break.

Just be vigilant and careful when visiting any of the public parks as they can be an area where pickpockets and thieves are operating. You may want to read recent reviews. We haven’t personally had any issues during the day, but I would recommend avoiding them at night.

The majority of Nairobi’s parks are open to the public and free to visit. However, there may be charges for parking or using specific facilities (toilets, picnic facilities, sports areas) within the park. The parks are normally open to visitors daily during daylight hours.

Note: When we last visited Nairobi in early 2022, parts of Uhuru Park, Central Park, and Uhuru Gardens were all closed for major renovations. So be sure to check before setting out to visit.

Here are some of the major parks and gardens located within Nairobi that you may want to visit:

Uhuru Park is a 32-acre green space in Nairobi’s center and the most popular park in the city. The park has been the site of a number of celebrations and protests. It contains gardens, lawns, trees, a fountain, a Mau Mau memorial monument, and an artificial lake. There are places to get food here as well as take boat rides on the lake.

Central Park

Central Park is located adjacent to Uhuru Park (the two are just separated by a road) in the CBD and is another large green space composed of lawns, gardens, shade trees, and a children’s playground. One of the main landmarks in the park is the Nyayo Monument, a large monument to celebrate former President Moi that was built in 1988.

Jeevanjee Gardens

Jeevanjee Gardens is another smaller green space located in the city center. It was gifted to the citizens of Nairobi by Indian-born Kenyan merchant Alibhai Mulla Jeevanjee in 1903. There is a statue of Jeevanjee in the park.

August 7th Memorial Garden

The August 7th Memorial Garden, also known as the American Embassy Memorial Garden, is a memorial garden located on the former site of the United States Embassy that was destroyed by terrorist bombings on August 7, 1998. The blast killed 218 people (I believe 206 Kenyans and 12 Americans) and injured thousands of others. It is a lovely walled garden with a memorial wall and a small museum.

Unlike the others on this list, there is a small entrance fee to visit the gardens and Peace Memorial Museum. You can find out more about visiting the memorial park here .

City Park is a large 60-hectare public park located in the Parklands area of Nairobi, north of the CBD. The park was first established in 1921 and became a protected area in 2009. It offers nature trails, lawns, picnic areas, a plant nursery, a sculpture garden, and a memorial garden. There is also a restaurant located within the park.

The park has a diverse collection of trees, plants, and wildlife, including portions of intact indigenous forest and a large population of Sykes’ monkeys. There is also a cemetery here where notable people such as Joseph Murumbi (Kenya’s second vice president) and Pio Gama Pinto (Kenyan journalist and politician) are buried.

Museum Botanical Gardens

These lovely botanical gardens are located within the grounds of the National Museum of Kenya. They showcase a number of plants found throughout Kenya and there are different themed areas throughout the garden.

There is also a nature trail here that goes along the Nairobi River. These gardens are free to visit. This is a great garden to visit before or after visiting the National Museum of Kenya.

Uhuru Gardens

Uhuru Gardens is a large memorial park located in western Nairobi in the Langata area. The grounds have historical significance as it is where the first Kenyan flag was raised on December 12, 1963 (Kenya’s Independence Day) and is considered the birthplace of modern Kenya. The gardens were officially declared a National Monument in 1966.

Within the park are a number of memorials and monuments related to Kenyan independence and freedom fighters. A fig tree ( mugumo tree) was planted by President Jomo Kenyatta on the spot where the British flag was brought down and Kenya’s national flag was first hoisted. In recent years, it has become the site of national Jamhuri Day and Madaraka Day celebrations.

This park is currently undergoing major renovations and there are plans by the current government to set up a museum, shopping complex, convention center, hotel, and other attractions within Uhuru Gardens.

Although then President Kenyatta “officially opened” the Uhuru Gardens National Monument & Museum on July 25, 2022, as far as I am aware this museum is still not finished or open to the public yet. So do check before planning a visit (and do leave us a comment to let me know if it has finally opened!).

Maasai Markets

The Maasai Markets are probably the most popular markets for tourists to Nairobi to visit. The markets are made up of a number of individual vendors selling their wares. At the markets you will find crafts, art, carvings, clothing, jewelry, fashion accessories, woven baskets, souvenirs, and more.

The Maasai Markets are normally held every day of the week except on Mondays. But they are held in different locations, depending on the day.  They are normally held from 9:00am to 6:00pm. You can check the Maasai Market Facebook page which has a lists of the market locations by day.

The last updated schedule of Maasai Market locations and days provided says:

• Monday – no regular markets
• Tuesday – Kijabe Street Park next to Nairobi River & Prestige Plaza along Ngong Road
• Wednesday – Capital Centre along Mombasa Road
• Thursday – The Junction Mall & along Ngong Road
• Friday – The Village Market in Gigiri & Lavington Mall
• Saturday -The High Court parking in the city center & Prestige Plaza
• Sunday -Yaya Centre

However, I would recommend confirming the market location and day before planning a special trip as they do sometimes change locations or are closed for one reason or another. For instance, the COVID-19 pandemic caused a lot of disruption in the markets.

Probably the most popular is the Saturday market in the Nairobi city center located at the High Court parking area opposite Re-Insurance Plaza. This is a great location for those staying in or near the CBD. There is also a second Maasai Market held on Saturdays at Prestige Plaza located in the Kilimani area.

For the Maasai Markets at the Prestige Plaza in the Kilimani area, you can find out more on their website . They are normally held on both Tuesdays and Saturdays.

At the Maasai Markets you are expected to bargain and haggle on the prices. So it is generally not a good idea to accept the first offer. How far to go down and what to offer really depends on the offer, what it is, and how much you are willing to pay. Sometimes the first price we’ve been given is really ridiculous and other times it may be just a little high.

If you have time and are looking for a fairly common item like a beaded bracelet, scarf, or carved wooden elephant, I would go around to various stalls and ask for best prices. You’ll likely get a range of prices and it will help you come up with what is probably a fair price for the item. Then you can have a price in mind of what you are willing to spend.

Laurence hates the process of haggling and leaves it all to me in these situations. If you hate haggling and are unsure of what to offer in these types of situations, consider shopping with a local guide who can help do it for you. Or you can just avoid the markets and head to the fixed price shops instead (see our section on Utamaduni Shops).

If you need transport or want a guide you can consider this guided shopping tour (includes a number of shops and markets), this city tour which includes a visit to the Maasai Markets, or hiring a private driver guide. Just be sure to book the tour on a day when a Maasai Market is scheduled to take place!

Kibera Tour

Kibera is believed to be the largest urban slum in Africa, with an estimated population ranging from 200,000 to 1 million people, depending on the source. Many of the residents of this informal settlement live in poverty and much of the community lacks access to basics like clean water, electricity, and medical care. Unemployment, crime, disease, substance abuse, lack of educational opportunities, and hazards such as floods and fires are major issues here.

Kibera was a forested section of land on the outskirts of the city that was initially allocated as an area for Nubian soldiers by the colonial British government at the start of the 20th century. Kibera means forest in Kinubi. Later it became an area of settlement for rural migrants from different parts of Kenya who wanted to live and work in Nairobi. After Kenya became independent, much of the housing and settlements here were considered illegal.

Everything about Kibera, including its demographics, topography, land ownership issues, and infrastructure are complicated and often dynamic. Kibera is made up of a variety of informal settlements and villages, many divided by tribal affiliations. The government started a long-term clearance project in 2009, but this has brought about limited changes thus far.

It should be noted that although Kibera is the largest slum area in Nairobi, it is not the only one. A large number of people in Nairobi live in informal settlements. A comparison of Kibera with one of the wealthy suburbs such as Gigiri clearly illustrates the huge wealth gap and inequality between Nairobi’s poorest and wealthiest citizens.

The decision to visit Kibera as a tourist can be complicated. There are a lot of issues with so-called slum tourism or visiting impoverished areas as a tourist. There are, of course, safety issues and Kibera is generally a place that tourists are warned against visiting. But there are also ethical issues.

There are both pros and cons to visiting areas such as Kibera, and there is no right answer. Negative factors of slum tourism are that it can be voyeuristic, exploitative of the local people, and may benefit tour operators instead of the local community. Positive factors can be that it can be educational, increase income for local people, drive traffic to local businesses, and increase government investment.

If you decide to visit, we recommend doing so in the most respectful and ethical way you can. This includes choosing a responsible tour operator, visiting with a local guide, visiting on foot, following advice given by the guide, dressing modestly, not taking photographs or making videos of people without their consent, being respectful of people’s private spaces, and considering ways to support the local community (e.g., tips, donations, local purchases).

We don’t recommend visiting Kibera on your own for a number of safety and ethical reasons. A local guide can not only help guide you through this large informal settlement and help you feel more safe and comfortable, but a guide can also make the visit more informative, impactful, and educational.

When choosing a tour of Kibera, we recommend choosing a tour run and led by local residents, where some of the profits are used to help the community, and one that has good reviews. Two tours you might consider are this tour  and this one . Both tours are led by Kibera residents and we were told some of the profits go to investing in projects in Kibera. Obviously, you can only do so much research on Kibera tours, but reading the reviews can help.

We chose to visit Kibera on a tour in 2022 after not visiting on prior visits as I was conflicted about doing so. I am glad we chose to do so as it was overall a positive experience and we learned a lot about Kibera.

We were picked up by two guides at a local shopping center as arranged, and then we went to Kibera by taking a matatu . Once in Kibera, we spent most of the time walking around the different parts, stopping to learn about different aspects of the settlement, its history, and what is happening today. We saw homes, businesses, a sports field, a hospital, the train tracks, and schools as we walked along. We had a lot of time to ask questions and our guides were happy to answer them.

At the end, we stopped at a school that is run by the Seed Foundation (who ran the tour), toured the school and learned about it and its struggle for resources. We also saw a brief song and dance performance by the older children. At the end of the tour, we got into a matatu with the guides and returned to the shopping center where we started.

We felt safe and comfortable throughout our tour. There is a lot of rubbish and open sewers so some areas can be a bit smelly. Locals seemed to pay little attention to us but were friendly when we spoke to them. Our tour did not include going into people’s homes or businesses (except the school) or any food, but some tours do this.

Kibera tours normally take place in the mornings, are between 3 and 5 hours in total, and involve a lot of walking. We recommend being prepared for a few hours of walking and wearing comfortable clothes and shoes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty. Leave your valuables at home. Bring water, sun protection, and cash for tips and any purchases.

If you are looking to see a different side of Nairobi, a Kibera tour is definitely something to consider doing on your visit. If you are looking for something similar but don’t want to head out to Kibera, this tour of the downtown is led by former street children and gives good insight into another side of Nairobi.

Government Buildings & Landmarks

If you do a city walking or driving tour of central Nairobi, you are likely to see a number of Nairobi’s government buildings as many of these serve as city landmarks. Many of these are important for architectural, historical, and/or cultural reasons. Many of these buildings can also be seen from the KICC rooftop (see section on the KICC), which is a good place to get a good view over the city.

Most of these landmarks are not open to tourist visits (without prior arrangement) with the exception of the gallery in the Kenya National Archives. The Archives is the only one that you’ll likely to actually visit, but you are likely to notice a number of these buildings.

Note that photography around many government buildings is prohibited. If in doubt, always check with an attendant or security guard. Some locations have signs posted but this is not always the case.

Here are a few of them, all located in the city center of Nairobi:

Parliament Buildings

The Parliament of Kenya is where the national legislative body of the government meets. Kenya has a bicameral legislature with two houses: the Senate (upper house) and The National Assembly (lower house). The buildings were constructed in 1954 and were designed in a similar style to the UK Parliament with a clock tower similar to the Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) in London.

It is possible to get permission to visit the Parliament, but your visit must be arranged in advance. You can find out more here .

Mzee Jomo Kenyatta Mausoleum

The mausoleum, located next to the Parliament, is where the body of Kenya’s first president Mzee Jomo Kenyatta lies. He died on August 22, 1978 of a heart attack and his body was preserved and laid to rest here. There is a commemoration ceremony here at the mausoleum on August 22 each year.

The mausoleum is rarely open to the public without prior permission and is generally only open to local and foreign dignitaries. It is surrounded by fences and heavily guarded. We were walking outside and stopped outside the gate to look at it from afar and a guard came over to ask us to move on.

Kenya National Archives

The Kenya National Archives was established in 1965 and is located in the city center of Nairobi. In addition to holding the national archives (which require permission to visit), it also has a public gallery exhibiting African art and artifacts.

The gallery features an eclectic exhibition of art and objects from across Africa. Most of the objects were part of the large art and book collection owned by Joseph and Sheila Murumbi (part of their collection is also on display at the National Gallery).

The National Archives are definitely worth a quick visit to see the collection. I’d allow about 1 hour to visit. However, if you are trying to choose just one museum to visit while in Nairobi, I’d recommend the Nairobi National Museum over this one.

The Kenya National Archives gallery is open to the public and there is a small fee to visit the exhibition. It is normally open to the public from 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Saturday. The Archives are closed on Sundays.

Religious Buildings

The majority of Kenyans identify as Christians with Islam being the second-largest religion in the country. In Nairobi, you’ll find many of the country’s important religious buildings for a number of faiths.

Note that some of the religious buildings in Nairobi are not open to public visits, but do welcome members of the faith who would like to pray or join religious services. So I would check ahead if you are interested in visiting or attending services at any of them.

Most religious buildings also have dress codes for visitors and worshippers. Many require modest clothing and some require head coverings.

Here are just a few of the more important religious buildings in Nairobi:

Holy Family Basilica

This Roman Catholic cathedral and basilica is dedicated to the Holy Family and is located in the CBD. The building dates back to 1904 and was the first stone building in Nairobi. It has expanded in size over the years. The interior was re-designed in the 1960s by architect Dorothy Hughes and features modernist styling and beautiful abstract stained glass windows.

The Holy Family Basilica is currently the seat of the Archdiocese of Nairobi and the largest church in Kenya.

All Saints’ Cathedral

The All Saints’ Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral located next to Uhuru Park in central Nairobi. Although the first Anglican service in Nairobi dates back to 1900, the current church building was only finished in the 1950s. It is the current home of the Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Kenya.

Jamia Mosque

The Jamia Mosque was completed in 1906 and was founded by Syed Maulana Abdullah Shah. It is the most known and important mosque in Kenya, and is often busy and full or worshippers. There is also an Islamic Centre and book shop located here.

Another important mosque is the Khoja Mosque which dates back to 1922. Both mosques are located in central Nairobi.

The Jamia Mosque normally welcomes visitors (subject to security screening) during regular hours. However, entry is sometimes restricted due to security or health (e.g., COVID-19 pandemic) issues.

East Africa Swaminarayan Satsang Temple

This Hindu temple was built in Nairobi in 1954 and is located in the Parklands area of Nairobi (north of the CBD). It was the first Swaminarayan temple to be built outside the Indian subcontinent.

Located nearby is another important Hindu temple in Nairobi, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir. This impressive building was built in 1999 and was the first traditional stone and marble Hindu temple to be constructed in Africa.

Hindu temples are typically open to visitors during posted daily visitor hours. Be sure to check visitor hours and guidelines before visiting.

City Market

The City Market is an indoor market located in the center of Nairobi. So a great market to visit if looking for a market located within the CBD.

The City Market caters to both tourists and locals. On one side the City Market houses a number of vendors selling crafts, art, clothing, carvings, curios, souvenirs, etc. from individual stalls. You will want to bargain on prices here.

On the other side is an area where vendors are selling fresh meat, seafood, and other food and grocery offerings. The market is also a popular place to buy fresh flowers. There are also stalls selling cooked food, such as nyama choma  (grilled meats).

The building itself is worth checking out for its architecture. It is one of the older buildings in Nairobi, built in the 1930’s in the Art Deco style, and has an interesting exterior and ceiling.

We enjoyed our visit here but you do need to be prepared for vendors coming up to you to try to lead you to their stalls and for haggling over prices. But you can find many of the same things offered at the Maasai Markets and craft markets here. Prices were low here when we visited as we were the only foreign visitors in the market at the time.

The market is located on Muindi Mbingu Street in downtown Nairobi. Since most of the stalls are covered and located inside the building, the City Market is a good market to visit no matter what the weather. The market’s main hours are usually 9:00am to 5pm Monday to Friday with an early noon closure on Saturdays. Most of the market is closed on Sundays.

Thorn Tree Cafe

Located at the historic Stanley Hotel in central downtown Nairobi, this bistro-style café was the first “pavement café” in Nairobi. It is most famous for the large Naivasha thorn tree ( Acacia xanthophloea ) that once stood here that was used as a post office and message board. Travelers used to leave messages to others on the tree’s thorns.

You can still leave “tree mail” here but you need to pin it to a message board rather than the tree itself. The current tree, planted in 1997, is the third one that has been placed here. Not that there is not always paper, pins, and pens here, so you may want to come prepared with your note and a push pin if you really keen to leave a message.

The famous message tree served as the namesake for Lonely Planet’s online forum which was a popular place for travelers to ask questions, get information, and find travel companions since it was started in 1996. It was the longest-running and most popular online travel forum. Sadly, the Thorn Tree forums and travel community shut down in 2021.

Although the Thorn Tree Cafe is not a must-see place to visit in Nairobi, I wanted to include it in this article because of its historical significance among travelers. The cafe serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We particularly recommend it for lunch or as an afternoon coffee stop for those in the Central Business District. We last visited in 2022 and although service was a bit slow, our pizza and drinks were very good.

If you are looking for a nice hotel in the city center, we’d also recommend considering staying at The Stanley Hotel (currently the Sarova Stanley). It is the oldest hotel in Nairobi, dating back to 1902, and has a significant place in the history of Nairobi. Notable guests have included Ernest Hemingway, Winston Churchill, Clark Gable, Gregory Peck, Grace Kelly, and Sean Connery.

The hotel bar, The Exchange Bar, is also worth a visit if you are looking for a drink or cigar. This bar (originally known as the Long Bar) has had many famous patrons and was the first place that Tusker beer was served. Interestingly, it also served as the location for the first Nairobi Stock Exchange and stocks were traded here for many years.

Karen Blixen Museum

The Karen Blixen Museum is housed in the farmhouse where Danish author and coffee farmer Karen Blixen (pen name Isak Dinesen) lived from 1917 to 1931. The 19th-century bungalow-style house was built in 1912 by Swedish civil engineer Åke Sjögren. It was purchased in 1917 by Karen and her husband Baron Bror von Blixen Fincke. They bought a total of 4,500 acres of land for their farm and coffee plantation.

Neither Karen Blixen’s marriage nor her coffee plantation were successful. She was forced to declare bankruptcy and leave Kenya in 1931. She returned to Denmark and wrote several books, including Out of Africa in 1937 where she writes about her time spent in Kenya. The suburb around her former estate, Karen, is still named after her.

Her house eventually became the property of the Kenyan government after independence and was opened as a state museum in 1986, following the success of the film Out of Africa (1985), starring Robert Redford and Meryl Streep. The popularity of this film not only increased interest in Karen Blixen, but increased tourism to Kenya as a whole. Guided house tours are offered daily that detail the history of Blixen’s time here.

The tour includes a tour of the interior of the house, the detached kitchen, and a small portion of the grounds including some 20th century coffee farming equipment. The house includes some of the original furniture and other objects that belonged to Blixen, including her famous cuckoo clock. Although the house was not used in the filming of Out of Africa , some of the costumes and movie props are on display here.

The house has a lovely location and Blixen referred to the house as Bogani or Mbogani, meaning a house in the woods. If you are familiar with the first lines of Blixen’s novel “I had a farm in Africa, at the foot of the Ngong Hills”, you’ll be pleased to note that there are still some good views of the Ngong Hills from here.

The tour lasts about 40 to 45 minutes and then visitors are allowed to explore the grounds and the small gift shop on their own. Photography is not allowed inside the house.

I’ve visited the Karen Blixen house museum twice and both times the guides were very good at presenting information and answering questions. The house is interesting to see, especially if you have read the book as so many of the experiences Blixen wrote about happened inside this house or just outside of it. However, if you haven’t read the book or you are not a fan of Blixen, this is probably a place to skip.

The Karen Blixen Museum is generally open daily from 9:30am to 6:00pm. You want to allow at least an hour for the visit as the tours take about 45 minutes. But I’d say 1.5 hours is a good amount of time to allow for the guided tour and unhurried exploration of the grounds and gift shop.

A nearby spot to eat is the Karen Blixen Coffee Garden , which offers both indoor and outdoor dining. Also located here are two historic buildings, one is the Swedo House (the original farmhouse built on the coffee estate) and the Grogan MacMillan Manor House, which was owned by Karen’s friend Lady MacMillian. The outdoor seating area is great place for lunch.

A number of tours include a stop at the Karen Blixen Museum, such as this full day tour that also visits the Giraffe Centre, Elephant Orphanage, Kazuri Beads, and Karen Blixen Coffee Gardens. You can see some options here and here .

Kazuri Beads Factory & Shop

Kazuri Beads is a business that makes colorful handmade ceramic beads used for jewelry. It started in 1975 when Lady Susan Wood employed two local single mothers and taught them how to make ceramic beads. The word kazuri means “small and beautiful” in Swahili.

The ceramic bead business was successful and expanded, allowing for the employment of a larger number of single mothers and other disadvantaged workers. Today, over 300 women, many of them single mothers, work at Kazuri. The company sells wholesale handmade beads, bead jewelry, and handpainted pottery. The factory has been Fair Trade certified.

At Kazuri Beads you can do a free guided factory tour and visit their factory store. The factory tour takes you through the whole process of how the ceramic beads and pottery are made, from sourcing the clay to molding, drying, firing, hand painting, glazing, etc. You get to see the various workshops, meet some of the workers, and see the process of making some of the beads and pottery pieces. The tour takes about 30 minutes or so. Definitely worth doing if you have the time.

After the tour, you are then invited to visit the shop where you are left to browse and shop on your own. The shop offers a range of handmade ceramic items, mainly necklaces, bracelets, tableware, drinkware, and ornaments.

I have purchased Kazuri Beads jewelry for both myself and as gifts at the factory store. They had a huge selection of jewelry with beads in just about every size, shape, and color so it was easy to find something that appealed. On my last visit, I was specifically looking for a necklace with flat red beads to replace one that broke and was able to find a very good match. It is now one of my favorite necklaces.

Kazuri Beads was hit hard by COVID-19 as it closed down and many of the workers were laid off during the closure and then was slow to rebound due to a huge dip in tourism. But luckily Kazuri has survived and has rebuilt and reopened in a new location. So if you visit, be sure to show your support.

Note that your guide or driver may give you a choice of which factory or shop you want to visit in the area (a few are now in the area), but if you want to go to Kazuri be sure to specifically note you want to go here. It is now in a new location and is not the same as KobeTough (a new business). The previous location used for its factory and shop was sold to Sandstorm Kenya (luxury leather company) and another similar company KobeTough (beads and leather) opened in the area in 2020 and makes similar products with former employees. But luckily Kazuri has survived and has rebuilt and reopened in a new location.

Kazuri Beads factory and shop is located on Laganta Road. There is also a small restaurant/cafe here where you can get coffee, tea, drinks, and lunch.

Kazuri Beads factory is located in the Karen area of Nairobi and is about a 10 minute drive from the Karen Blixen Museum and estate. You can also buy Kazuri Beads jewelry at other retail locations (mostly at Nairobi shopping malls) and other gift and souvenir shops in Nairobi (including at Utamaduni Shops).

Bomas of Kenya

The Bomas of Kenya is a great place to visit if you are interested in cultural performances and seeing traditional homes from around Kenya. The Bomas of Kenya was established in 1971 by the Kenyan government to both preserve traditional cultural practices and increase tourism. Here you’ll find examples of traditional bomas from around 40 different cultural groups, daily cultural performances, a conference center, a restaurant, and a gift shop.

The first main attraction here is the bomas themselves. Boma in Kiswahili means “homestead” and there are bomas representing around 40 different ethnic/cultural groups from around Kenya.

Different tribes and groups from all over the country were invited to build replicas of traditional “mini villages” here so visitors could learn more about their traditional homes, building methods, and culture.

The bomas are in an open-air setting and you can walk around and explore them with a guide or on your own. Some of the many tribes and cultural groups represented here are the Kisii, Kikuyu, Meru, Somali, Turkana, Maasai, and Luo.

The Luo village may be of particular interest to some Americans as it was the tribe of former President Obama’s Kenyan father. A guide can be helpful in pointing out the differences as it can be difficult to spot some of the differences as some of the bomas are pretty similar.

The second main attraction for visitors are the cultural performances that take place at the large indoor circular theater here. Since 1973, the Bomas has been the home of Kenya’s national professional dance company, the Bomas Harambee Dancers.

The performances vary, as they have a repertoire of about 50 different acts, but the show includes several different acts representing different cultural groups. Each group is introduced and a little history is given about the dance, music, or instruments. Many of the dances are done as part of a tribal ceremony such as celebrating a circumcision, harvest, or birthday.

When we visited there were a variety of dance, music, percussion, and acrobatic acts. There were 9 acts in all and these represented the Borana, Agikuyu, Embu, Nubi, Luo, Maasai, and Bukusu groups and there was also a percussion performance and an acrobatic show. We enjoyed the variety and one of the groups also involved audience participants.

The performances are normally daily in the afternoons from 2:30pm to 4:00pm on weekdays and 3:30pm to 5:15pm on weekends and holidays; however, we recommend checking the performance dates and times online before you head here. The attraction is normally open each day from 10:00am to 6:00pm. You can buy tickets on-site in person.

Note that the Bomas are often the site used for the national elections tallying and announcements so are often closed to the public for a few months during presidential election years for security reasons as they did in 2022. So do be sure to check if visiting on an election year.

Of all the main tourist attractions in Kenya, this is one that seems to draw more Kenyans than foreign tourists. If you visit on a weekend, like we did, you’ll likely find the auditorium pretty full of local school groups, university students, conferencegoers, and other groups from around Kenya. There was also a smattering of fellow tourists and some local families.

The Utamaduni Restaurant located here is a great place to try traditional Kenyan food. It offers dishes from around Kenya’s different regions at reasonable prices. You can find foods here that are difficult to find at hotels and tourist restaurants.

We’d recommend allowing about 3 hours for your visit here. The performances take about 1.5 hours and you’ll want at least an hour for exploring the bomas. If you want to eat at the restaurant as well, I’d add a little extra time. You can easily spend the full afternoon here.

If you need transport, you can arrange for a private tour like this one that includes transport and a guide.

The Bomas of Kenya is located in the Langata suburb of Nairobi, making it easy to combine a visit with other nearby attractions. There are a number of tours that include a visit to the Bomas of Kenya, such as this tour which includes visits to the Giraffe Centre, Elephant Orphanage, and Bomas. You can see more tour options here and here which include a visit to the Bomas.

Try Local Foods

We highly recommend trying some of the local dishes while in Kenya. As the capital city, Nairobi is a great place to try different dishes from around Kenya and the wider East African region.

Here are just a handful of the foods you might want to try while in Kenya: ugali (maize flour porridge, a staple food across East Africa), chapati (flat bread), nyama choma (grilled meats), githeri (beans and corn), mahragwe (beans and rice), kachumbari (fresh tomato & onion salad), nduma (stewed arrowroot), matoke (green plantain stew), pilau (spiced rice), kuku choma (BBQ chicken), supu (soup), mtuzi wa samaki (tilapia fish in coconut curry sauce), mandazi (fried bread, doughnuts), tsiswa (roasted termites), viazi karai (potato nuggets), vibibi (coconut and rice pancakes), and mukimo (mashed potatoes, corn, and pumpkin leaves).

Note that the names and spelling vary in different regions as do the recipes. Some of these foods are typical across East Africa whereas others are more regional. What is on offer on local menus will also change by season and the region of the country. For example, along the coast such as in Mombasa, you’ll get a lot more fish and seafood as well as more Indian influenced dishes.

If you are looking to try popular drinks in Kenya, we’d recommend trying Kenyan tea (chai) and Tusker beer. Another popular Kenyan beer, and the favorite of one of our guides, is White Cap and it is produced by the same company that makes Tusker.

It can be difficult to try a lot of local dishes as many hotels and safari lodges in Kenya tend to primarily serve Western dishes. Many restaurants serve a number of European, American, or Indian dishes, but traditional Kenyan food can sometimes be tricky to find for tourists.

One thing we found is that a lot of common Kenyan meals don’t include any meat or fish but have a lot of vegetables, legumes, and grains. For example, a common everday meal is githeri, which is a stew of beans and corn. Most Kenyans cannot afford to eat meat everyday.

If your hotel doesn’t offer local dishes, I’d ask hotel staff, guides, or drivers for suggestions for places that serve good Kenyan food that they would recommend. They should be able to point you to places with safe cooking practices. It is fun to be adventurous, but you want to keep water and food safety in mind when choosing where to eat and what to eat so you don’t regret it the next day.

If you are not sure where to go and aren’t getting any good suggestions, a few restaurants that you may want to consider which focus on Kenyan food are Amaica in the Westlands, Utamaduni Restaraunt in L’angata, and the budget-friendly Hot Dishes which has a few locations in the Central Business District of Nairobi.

Utamaduni Restaurant is located at the Bomas of Kenya and serves Kenyan dishes from the many different regions of the country. If you are already planning to visit the Bomas, this is a very convenient option for lunch or dinner before or after your visit.

A second suggestion is to ask at your hotel if they are able to make local dishes on request. Normally, this requires asking a day or so in advance. For instance, we stayed at Nyati Hill Cottages and here they allow you to choose if you would like evening meals cooked for you or not. We chose to have our evening meals there and the local cook made us a typical Kenyan meal on our first night based on our request.

Finally, another fun option is to join a local food tour, such as this one . This not only allows you to try a number of Kenyan dishes with the help of a local, but it is also an interactive experience where you will learn a bit about Kenya’s food history. Just be sure to go hungry as you will eat a ton on the tour!

Karura Forest

Karura Forest is a wonderful green space located in northern Nairobi. It is a popular place for hikers, joggers, and cyclists with a number of walking trails and a 12 km long biking trail. It is also a popular place for family picnics, sports, school group visits, birdwatching, and dog walking. There is even a horse path for those on horseback.

We loved hiking here in the morning while staying in Nairobi. There are several different trails you can take, depending on how far you want to walk. The trails were fairly well-marked and you can buy a map at the gate if you wish. It really feels like you have escaped the city once you get out on the trails.

Some of the landmarks in the forest include Karura waterfalls, Mau Mau caves (where Mau Mau fighters hid out), Amani Gardens (which includes a memorial to those who died at the 2013 Westgate shopping mall attack ), and Lily Pond Lake.

Karura Forest is also a good place to spot local wildlife, especially birds. One of our safari guides told us that he comes here in the mornings sometimes for birdwatching. We spotted antelopes, monkeys, and several birds during our visit.

We visited on a weekend and while quiet in the morning it was very busy by the afternoon. Most were enjoying picnics in the picnic areas or playing sports. There is a football pitch, basketball court, and tennis courts. You can also rent bikes and head off on the bike trail.

You can enjoy a picnic in one of several designated picnic areas within the forest. There is a small fee for picnics and picnic spots are first-come first-serve (booking recommended on weekends). Note that alcohol and single-use plastics are not allowed in the forest.

There is also a restaurant, The River Cafe , located within the forest which is normally open whenever the forest is open. There are several free toilet facilities within the forest.

Karura Forest is normally open daily from 6:00am to 6:00pm. There is a fee to visit the forest and also a parking fee is you are driving yourself. There are also additional fees for certain services such as bike rentals, nature tours, using the sports grounds, or using the event space facilities. Some activities need to be booked in advance. You can check opening hours and fees here .

Some locals recommended that we don’t visit the forest on our own as there have been robberies on the trails. We felt safe but if you are traveling solo or would like a guide, there are tours you can join at the forest led by Karura Forest Eco-Tours, you can read more here .

If you are looking for transport and a local guide, you can also join a tour such as this guided tour and this guided tour . These tours normally include transport from your accommodation, a guide, forest entrance fees, and bike rentals (optional).

Although Karura Forest is the largest, it isn’t the only forest you can visit in Nairobi. The others are Ngong Forest  and  Oloolua Forest (the 5km Oloolua Nature Trail is here). Another option is the Nairobi Arboretum (described in another section) which is smaller but the most accessible for those in central Nairobi.

Nairobi Arboretum

The Nairobi Arboretum is a 30-hectare forest in the Kilimani area of Nairobi. It offers forest trails, lawns, picnic areas, and jogging trails. It is a great place to see lots of local and exotic tree species and is also home to a number of bird species as well as Sykes and Vervet monkeys. It is a popular place for locals to jog, meet, hang out, hold events, and have picnics.

The Nairobi Arboretum was established in 1907 as a place to plant new species of exotic fast-growing trees to use as firewood for fueling the newly constructed railway. It was designated as a national reserve in 1932 and in 1996 it became a public owned reserve.

We visited on our last trip to Nairobi as it was a short walk from where we were staying in the Kilimani area of Nairobi. It has a lot of shady paths you can follow as well as lots of places to sit and relax. The only negative was that a large family group were littering and feeding the monkeys without staff intervention when we visited.

There is a small fee to enter the arboretum and a parking fee. The Nairobi Arboretum is open daily from 6:00am to 6:00pm each day. There are toilet facilities on site. You can check fees and events here.

And that is our guide to visiting Nairobi and a list of the top things to do in Nairobi! We hope that if you are planning a trip to Nairobi that this guide has been helpful to you. If you have any questions about your trip to Kenya, just ask us and we are happy to try to help.

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Are you planning a visit to Nairobi? Which of these sites are on your travel wish list? If you have visited any of these places, we’d love to hear your personal experiences and tips.

If you are planning a trip to Nairobi (or elsewhere in Kenya) feel free to ask us any questions about any aspect of your trip below and as always we’ll do our best to answer your questions!

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Rob Post author

November 16, 2023 at 2:23 am

Your article is really thorough and I enjoyed it. The only thing I can add is that in Nairobi you can also get genuine Somali, Ethiopian, and Indiana cuisine. There are also a couple of events you can plan your trip around like their annual jazz festival, and monthly concert called blankets and wine where you can listen to Afro-jazz, soul, and RnB. Also safari rally for motorheads.

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

November 16, 2023 at 3:01 pm

So glad you enjoyed our Nairobi guide, and thanks for adding some more things to do in Nairobi!

The Blankets and Wine event sounds really nice! I just looked it up and looks like it is a quarterly event in both Nairobi (currently in the Kasarani neighborhood) and in Kampala, Uganda. Definitely something we’ll see if we can catch if timing works out next time we are in Kenya!

Best, Jessica

Peter Cheps Post author

September 20, 2023 at 4:39 am

This is one of the the most detailed piece about Nairobi. As i am commenting today, Nairobi is preparing for EL-Nino Rains. that might disrupt traveling in and out of Nairobi City soon. Travelers should be cautious particularly in the Western Sector of the country when the rainy season start anytime from now

September 20, 2023 at 3:39 pm

Thanks for taking the time to comment and let us know that you found our Nairobi post helpful and detailed, we alawys love to hear when our articles have been helpful to readers.

Thanks for sharing that info about the current rains and weather warnings, and I hope you stay safe if you are currently traveling in Nairobi or elsewhere in western Kenya.

Henna Post author

August 26, 2023 at 6:17 am

Hi! I stumbled upon your blog while looking if Nairobi is worth including in to our itinerary. It was highly informative, yet still with personal touches so I really enjoyed reading this! As you said, many use Nairobi as a gateway to safaris, and it was my original plan too but I founded tons of things I wanted to see/visit if I manage to squeeze in more than one night in there! David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, City Markets and Thorn Tree Cafe at the top of my lists! Thank you for sharing your trip/trips and Happy Travels! Henna

August 26, 2023 at 9:43 am

So glad that our article convinced you to stay and see some of the sights in Nairobi!

Sounds like based on some of the places you want to see, if you have just one full day, I’d split your time between the Central Business District (downtown) to see places like the City Market and Thorn Tree Cafe (best for lunch, coffee, or drinks in our opinion) and then Karen/Langata for places like David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage and you could maybe add a place or two in that area such as the Giraffe Center, Bomas (check performance schedule if interested), Kazuri Beads, Karen Blixen Museum, and/or Utamaduni Shops. Just be sure to check operating dates and times or if joining a tour, then they’ll time it for you. For the elephants, you’ll want to be there by around 10:30am to check-in so that is the one place that has a very definite time constraint and I’d plan your day around that stop.

If you have one full day and part of a second day, you could easily spend a full day in Karen/Langata and then the next partial day visit the City Markets and then have lunch at Thorn Tree Cafe before heading off to safari.

Hope that helps and just let us know if you have any more questions as you plan your visit to Kenya!

August 26, 2023 at 10:00 am

Hi Jessica!

Of course best would be to have atleast one full day, but the flights I am currently looking are landing during the night so I don’t know. Will have to think about it! Currently I am looking in of safaris so if you have any good safari operators in mind it would be greatly appreciated! And any uptodate COVID restrictions, I am seeing some very mixed informations on the internet…

August 26, 2023 at 5:40 pm

Yes, never enough time. If you arrive at night and want to see some of the city, then I’d recommend trying to stay two nights in Nairobi. The first one just to sleep, and then you can take a tour the second day around Nairobi to at least see a few attractions. This will also give you some time to relax and get ready if you start your safari the next morning.

Happy to give you some thoughts on safari but it depends on a lot of things! When are you thinking of going on safari, for how long, what is your budget, do you want a private driver or join a small group safari (or either), are there any specific things you want to see, etc. Are you just planning to just stay in Kenya for your safari?

I think Kenya has recently lifted all its main COVID restrictions for travel to and within the country (although it says if any traveler has any signs of illness they will be asked for proof of vaccination and tested). But some Kenyan authority websites do say that proof of COVID vaccination is required (I suspect they just haven’t been updated…) so I would just be safe and make sure to always carry your proof of vaccination on you (also a good idea just in case the requirements change while in the country as they can sometimes do). But you should definitely doublecheck the latest requirements for your home country, airline, Kenya, and any other destinations before your actual departure.

I am sure you are already aware, but there are a number of vaccinations recommended for travel to Kenya, and you can see the latest CDC guidelines here . I’d make an appt with your doctor or a travel nurse a few weeks in advance and see what is recommended for you and where you plan to go. Depending if you plan to travel to or through any other countries in East Africa, a yellow fever vaccination may be required. If you need or decide to get the yellow fever vaccine, I’d recommend taking it at least 2 weeks before you depart.

August 26, 2023 at 5:53 pm

I have already started to get my vaccinations, still few appointments left and planning to eat Malaria pills during our trip. Our trip will be early November, and I am travelling with my spouse.

2 nights in Nairobi sounds about perfect, just hope I am not overly positive about the time we have… 🙂

For safari the idea is to see the flamingos in Nakuru. Maybe include Maasai Mara to the itinerary. Maybe 4 days, 5 tops. And from Nakuru continue our journey to Uganda where we are going to stay rest of our trip and flying home from. I think private tour would suit best for us, since we like to have our own timetable. Budget is midrange, not overly expensive but I am not fan of sleeping in the tent either. 🙂

August 27, 2023 at 9:48 am

So the company we used is Tanzania based (Amani Afrika) and normally only does Kenya as part of a longer itinerary that includes Tanzania, but for such a short trip you will have a lot of options to get a private safari from Nairobi as Nakuru and the Mara are two typical places to visit together. Lake Nakuru is only about a 3.5 hour drive north of Nairobi so sometimes people even do it as a one night trip. I imagine most companies will have a 3-5 day itinerary for those two parks. I’d recommend checking out TourRadar as you can compare tours by length, price, rating, etc. You can see November private tours to Lake Nakuru and the Maasai Mara here . I’d say for a private tour for 4 days with mid-range accommodation, private guide, transport, meals, park fees, etc. – you are looking at around $1000-$1500 per person. If you want a cheaper one, you can get much lower rates by camping or joining a group. Just make sure the itinerary you choose has what you want in it and know what all is covered in tour price (and what you would need to pay for extra).

Also a note on the flamingoes, there are not as many of them in Lake Nakuru as there once was and for several years, there were almost none due to rising water there but they have been returning in the past couple of years and it looks like they are there now. But when I was in Kenya last year, there was almost none there, but we did get to see some in Amboseli. So just something to keep in mind. But regardless, Nakuru and the Maasai Mara are very much taking the time to see.

So for getting to Uganda, I would recommend flying from Nairobi to Entebbe/Kampala. There are daily flights with Kenya Airways and others to Entebbe and they are only about 1.5 hours. If you go overland from Kenya it will be 10+ hours of driving and you’ll need to pay for your driver/car/fuel/accommodation for an extra night. Also best to get a new Uganda guide for your time in Uganda rather than have a Kenyan guide in most cases due to local knowledge and language. Of course if you want to save money, you can get a bus from Nairobi to Kampala for about $25. But I’d recommend flying if you want to avoid the discomfort of a long bus or car ride.

Where are you planning to go in Uganda? We have been a couple times, and spent about a month in Uganda earlier this year. I haven’t had a chance to write too much about our time in Uganda but Laurence has written guides on visiting Entebbe , chimp trekking , and gorilla trekking . But we have also been to all the national parks and most of the cities there as well as several museums and cultural attractions. So happy to try to help if you have any questions about planning your time there as well.

August 27, 2023 at 1:16 pm

Hi Jessica,

You are really going above and beyond answering my questions, thank you!!

(There wasn’t Reply link on your response below so I used this one..)

Yes, I read about decreased flamingo population in Nakuru, but I think it would still be worth visiting, and it is on our way so why not stop there for a day or two, right? 🙂 And with animals nothing is ever 100% sure anyway!

The prices you mentioned 1000-1500 per person is what I expected. I have became a bit comfort-seeking on my old age of 30, (hah!), so I am sure it won’t be worth of saving couple hundreds if it means sleeping in a tent. I wouldn’t mind being a part of bigger group, it is nice to meet new people, but since we are not coming back to Nairobi it would just be a hassle for the rest of the group if we were to be dropped off somewhere else.

Ah, flying. It is such a long flight even to get in Africa in the first place so even if it means sitting in the car for several hours I would much prefer it. It enables to see the scenery on the way! Bus is option I am thinking on. The border crossing just intimidates me a little. But, it would be a experience in it self.

In Uganda we are going to stay in Kampala. I will have to check Laurence’s guides for Uganda, thanks! I would love to see the gorillas but it think our budget is too slim for that. Well, something for next time..But if you have any tips for Kampala, I would appreciate them! 🙂

August 28, 2023 at 4:10 pm

You’re very welcome!

I think that you’ll probably find it easier and less expensive to return to Nairobi after your safari regardless and then head to Uganda from there. You’ll have the most bus options there as well, if you do the bus I would just book the nicest seat you can. The bus can be interesting as you can get to see how most Kenyans travel back and forth in East Africa. Either way, just be prepared for a very long day of sitting!

In Kampala itself, its a busy and chaotic (traffic wise) place but there is definitely 2-3 days worth of things you can do, depending on what you like to do and see. The main cultural attractions we’d recommend would be Kabaka’s Palace, Uganda Museum, and Kasubi Royal Tombs. There are also a number of important religious sites, again depending if those are of interest – the Uganda National Mosque (also nice view from minaret, we could only see outside of actual mosque as non-Muslim when we visited), Catholic churches (Saint Mary’s Cathedral Rubaga, Basilica of the Uganda Martyrs, etc.), Anglican (Saint Paul’s Cathedral Namirembe), and the Baha’i Temple.

For a general sense of Kampala and learn more, we’d highly recommend doing some kind of walking tour with a local guide. We’ve personally done this walking tour of the downtown with mosque visit (with guide Arthur), a great way to see and learn more about Kampala and go to some places that you may not feel comfortable walking without a guide. We’d also recommend doing one of the nighttime cultural events or shows at the Ndere Cultural Centre , the shows are fun, the people were super friendly, and meals are optional to add at many of the shows. If you are more adventurous, you might also enjoy a food tour to try a lot of local food items, Laurence did this tour and loved it. If you’re into social change, the slum awareness walk with AFFCAD is amazing (usually led by Jaffar), but you’d need to contact them in advance if they are still leading them.

From Kampala, both Entebbe and Jinja are within easy day tripping distance. Entebbe is where the airport is located and has a lovely botanical garden (see Laurence’s posts with all the info about Entebbe). You could also do a day trip over to Jinja, the source of the Nile and also some nice forest and waterfalls over in that area. If you want to see more wildlife/nature and have a few days to do a short tour, then the nearest parks are either Murchinson Falls or Lake Mburo. Or you could go do chimp trekking as well.

Yes, unfortunately the permit costs for the gorilla treks are a set price and are expensive so you can save that for another time! It is much less expensive to do the chimp trekking (or golden monkey trekking) so you could look into those if you are interested. I think the Kibale forest permits are now $200/person but less at other sites ($50-$120/person I think) although Kibale in our experience is the easiest place to see them.

Oh, yes for the comment replies, I think we may have exceeded the maximum number of comments allowed on a single thread. So if you want to reply or ask another question related to Kenya you can just start with making a new comment. Or if you have any follow up comments about Uganda, you can leave them over on one of Laurence’s relevant posts on those topics.

Hope that helps! Jessica

Adam Post author

August 19, 2023 at 2:36 pm

your nairobi guide is so very helpful to us – we are an older couple from u.s. planning a trip. we were here 30+ years ago but never got to really see much of the city as we went off to do some volunteer work and a bit of safari elsewhere. the city seems to have changed a lot since our last visit and this time we want to spend a day or two seeing it. then going on to visit some old friends on the coast and do some safari time

so if you don’t mind a couple of questions for you: 1) do we need to worry about tetse files while in nairobi? or what colors we were? (I see laurence in bright blue in one photo so thinking not) and 2) we love the idea at staying at a historic hotel but not sure if stanley would suit in downtown (feel a bit worried about that area at night), do you have other ideas. we like something that has old-world feel, comfortable and a place where we could get transport & join tour to see city. don’t mind being outside very center, but don’t want to be outside the city either

August 20, 2023 at 8:20 pm

So first, so glad to hear that you are find our Naribi travle guide and tips helpful in planning your own Nairobi itinerary. How wonderful that you and your partner have the chance to return to Kenya again after 30 years! And I definitely agree that Nairobi is worth a full day or two to explore. I understand that you may feel a bit uncomfortable visiting here, especially independently, but with a tour guide or driver on a booked tour you should be fine.

1. No, you don’t need to worry about the tsetse fly in Nairobi. Now, I won’t 100% guarantee you that there aren’t any as they are attracted by wildlife and livestock, but I don’t think you need to worry about them in any places you are likely to go. We never experienced any in Nairobi National Park for instance. We did get bitten by mosquitoes one night (we left our window open and didn’t use our mosquito netting one night) in Nairobi last year so they do exist at least in some areas of the city and good to take precautions against them, especially in the evening. So you can wear whatever colors you want but if doing safari later, there are tsetse flies in many of the game parks in Kenya, including the Maasai Mara and Tsavo. So best to stick to the “safari colors” for your time on safari. Although efforts to minimize tsetse flies in Kenya have been effective it seems in recent years, our guide said last year that he was shocked by how few tsetse flies he saw in Tsavo West compared to prior years.

2) So really any hotel in the central part of Nairobi is fine for most tour companies and with private guides in particular they are generally pretty flextible in terms of pickup and dropoff locations. Same with taxis. You just need to give them the address at the time of booking normally so they can then set a pickup time. So I would focus on the hotel first and then you can book your tour.

Here are a few options in Nairobi, not sure of your budget, but these are all nicer ones:

So The Stanley is definitely one of the oldest hotels and a classic, but you are right in that it is located in the center of the CBD and is right next to busy streets. So you can read reviews from other travelers on that.

Another good option is The Norfolk , so this is a 5-star historical hotel (the original part dating to 1904) and is also located in the CBD, but in the northern part up in the university area. It is surrounded more by gardens and feels less in the middle of the city so this might be a good alternative. Still central but doesn’t necessary feel like it is so and has good security.

If you prefer to be outside of the central business district of Nairobi, you might consider a place over in either Karen or Langata (depending on what you plan to do with your day in Nairobi) such as Giraffe Manor (former home of the Leslie-Melvilles and built in 1932) or Karen Gables (Cape Dutch style former home) which is a nice B&B.

Another place would be Villa Rosa Kempinski , this is not a historical hotel (built in 2009 or so I think) but it has an Old World sort of decor. It is located in the Westlands area.

Anyway, hope that helps you get started. And do let me know if you have any further questions as you plan your trip!

August 21, 2023 at 6:18 pm

Hi Jessica! Wow, thanks for taking the time to answer so quickly and provide such a thoughtful response. good to know no flies to worry about, at least for this part of our trip but we did know they would possibly appear in the mara etc. And I think the norfolk hotel you recommended looks perfect, so I think we will likely book that as it looks like a nice place to stay after such a long journey, central in the city, and a bit of an indulgence before we head onward. thanks again for your time and knowledge very grateful!

August 21, 2023 at 6:41 pm

You’re very welcome. Wishing you a safe & wonderful trip to Kenya!

tanay sharma Post author

June 22, 2023 at 2:37 am

I love exploring different places and Nairobi is one of the places I would love to explore. Thanks for sharing insights about different factors like water safety, travel options within Nairobi and health concerns. I have been at the ethiopian airlines flights to Nairobi from different parts of the world. Looking forward to more such informative posts!

June 22, 2023 at 10:34 am

Thanks, glad you are considering a visit to Nairobi. So in Kenya, Nairobi’s

Teknik Post author

June 6, 2023 at 3:29 am

Are zebras native to the habitat there?

June 14, 2023 at 7:15 am

I believe that zebra are native to Nairobi, or at least that general area before the city built up there. Writings by early settlers and the books by Isak Dinesen (aka Karen Blixen) talk about there being lots of local wildlife outside of the city such as gazelle, zebra, and lions. Now almost all the larger wildlife is contained within Nairobi National Park which was created in 1946. I think all (or at least most) of the animals and birds found there are native to Kenya.

I don’t know for certain but I think that the range for zebra would have been very widespread across Kenya in the past with plains zebra liking habitats such as treeless grasslands and savanna woodlands.

In terms of zebra species, there are both Grévy’s zebra and common plains zebra in Kenya, but in Nairobi National Park you’ll only find the plains zebra. But you can find the endangered Grevy’s zebra in some of the parks/reservers in northern Kenya.

Hope that helps! If you have any other questions about visiting Nairobi National Park, just let us know – it is a great park to visit if you are staying in the city.

Alison Post author

May 20, 2023 at 11:39 am

Lovely article! I’m currently in Nairobi myself and just wanted to say that your tips have made this trip much easier, and have also made me more confident being here (I’m by myself, as a woman and infrequent traveller), so thank you for that! Also, to any tourists who might be reading this, I just want to say that 1 day most definitely is not enough. This city is amazing and has so much to offer. Added benefit of having more time is you get to take a break in one of the really beautiful parks and just watch all of the exotic birds that hang out in the centre of the town. And if you’re concerned about safety, which I know a lot of people are – I’ve walked everywhere, totally submerged in the crowds of Kenyans from walks of life who get around on foot, and have not for a second felt uncomfortable or unsafe. Hope that helps!

May 21, 2023 at 9:34 am

I am so happy to hear that you had such a lovely visit to Nairobi and that our tips and information was helpful and make you more comfortable visiting the city. Yes, as a single woman, it can definitely be intimidating. And yes, we can certainly agree that the city has enough attractions to fill a few days as we have certainly done on prior visits – we are hoping to get back here next year again!

One thing I would note for other readers reading this is that although we also feel comfortable walking in many parts of Nairobi, especially during the day, there are certainly some areas of Nairobi I would not recommend tourists wander around alone on foot, especially after dark. So I think it is just about being cautious, sensible, and also following local advice. Many residents would also not recommend walking in certain areas alone after dark as there are just certain places where crimes like robbery are unfortunately still common.

Thanks for taking the time to comment, and I am very happy you had such a great time in Nairobi!!

Erin Post author

August 30, 2022 at 2:05 am

I’ve been to Nairobi! It’s just as cool as the pictures show, any one reading this should consider going!

August 30, 2022 at 3:06 am

Thanks for taking the time to comment, and so happy that you enjoyed your trip to Nairobi!

Seana Turner Post author

August 29, 2022 at 3:26 am

Our neighbors across the street just returned from safari. Too bad they didn’t read this post before going!

We also have a mission partner who lives in Kenya. She came to the US for seminary, and then went back to her home in Nambale to start a school. It’s been amazing to watch what she (with God’s help) has accomplished. Because she comes back every year, I get to hear lots about Kenya, and her time passing back and forth through Nairobi. Once again, you provide all the little details everyone needs to know.

On another note, my husband and I are hoping to take a trip to Scotland next summer, so I’ll be combing this site for ideas on what we should do while we are there. Keep the great info coming. 🙂

August 29, 2022 at 6:50 am

That sounds wonderful about your friend and her work. I hope you get a chance to perhaps visit her in Nambale some day and do some sightseeing in Kenya 😉

And of course, happy to help you with your trip to Scotland once you start planning it. We have a lot of articles across our two travel blogs, and you can also of course leave us Comments or email me with any questions.

Emily Post author

August 2, 2022 at 12:01 am

Great post and photos, gave us lots of info about Nairobi and also travelling to Kenya in general. We just have an afternoon in Nairobi and most of the tours start well before we could be able to do so. Thoughts on what to do if we just have 5-6 hours in afternoon and evening. We fly out the next morning pretty early. Staying in a hotel in the Lavington area I think.

August 3, 2022 at 12:58 pm

So some options not too far from you if in the Lavington area of Nairobi would be the Giraffe Center, Kazuri Beads, Karen Blixen Museum, Bomas of Kenya (if reopened by your travel date), Uhuru Gardens Memorial Park (if reopened), and the Carnivore restaurant (it is normally open late for dinner).

If you wanted to just do one thing, you could also book an afternoon game drive at Nairobi National Park. However, I would note that we’d generally recommend visiting there in the mornings. But I think it is open until early evening.

You could also instead spend your time in the Central area of Nairobi and there you could visit one of the city’s museums such as the Nairobi Museum, go up the KICC (need a passport on you), do a walking tour, visit the City Market, etc. But you’d definitely want to check opening hours and days to make sure any places would be open when you are there.

So I think there are a number of options, I would just see what will fit with your specific date and time you’ll be in the city, and what is of most interest to you. It also depends on what kind of transport you have, and with such a short amount of time I’d recommend hiring a private driver, joining a tour, or taking taxis/Uber.

Hope that helps, and wishing you a wonderful time in Kenya!

Lawrence K Post author

June 7, 2022 at 3:09 pm

A lovely and detailed account of my city. You are most welcome to visit again and again.

June 7, 2022 at 3:52 pm

Hi Lawrence,

Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a comment. It is really wonderful to hear that you enjoyed our article about your home city of Nairobi – if you have any other tips or advice we might have missed, feel free to add! We’d love to hear them.

And yes, we hope to visit Nairobi again soon. We know we are going to be back in Uganda in 2023 and will hope to also be able to get over to Kenya as well 😉

May 31, 2022 at 1:49 pm

I have to say that the very idea of traveling to Kenya feels a little overwhelming to me. I am not the most intrepid traveler, and it feels a world away. I do have a friend who lives in Kenya and has established and runs a school there (she’s amazing!). I also am friends with a couple who travels to Kenya each year to support missions and children. So I know it is possible!

I would say it would not have occurred to me to that there was so much to do in Nairobi. I have learned from my friends that the pace in Kenya is slower, so I guess if you have made that very long trip, might as well see as much as possible.

As always, so full of helpful information. You guys are the best!

June 1, 2022 at 4:11 am

Yes, Kenya is not the easiest place to travel but you can definitely do so with some planning. And having a friend in Kenya would definitely make it easier as I am sure she would love to have you visit her 😉

Safety is obviously a concern for most travelers so visitors do need to take precautions. Right now the USA (and other countries) has increased its security warnings for Kenya as the elections are coming up in August 2022 and can bring increased unrest to the country. But hopefully this will calm down again following the election period.

Yes, there is plenty to do in and around Nairobi. I’ve been to Nairobi three times and there are still things I would love to go back and do and see if we have the chance to return. Even if you aren’t really interested in the downtown city attractions, you can stay on the southside of the Nairobi National Park and it feels like you are out on safari. Seeing wild animals like giraffes, zebras, and lions with a city skyline in the background is really unique.

If you decide to visit, just let me know 😉

eleanor graves Post author

May 30, 2022 at 6:07 pm

wow, what an in-depth article! really enjoyed reading all this about nairobi as we are *hoping* to visit Kenya for the first time next year!! so will be bookmarking this.

A few quick questions:

-how easy is it to get a taxi from NBO airport? -if we just have a day, what tour would you recommend taking? -not really related to nairobi, but what do you advise wearing for kenya, like for the game drive parts?

thanks in advance, i am sure I will have more questions in the future!

May 31, 2022 at 6:37 am

Hi Eleanor,

So glad you enjoyed reading our post about things to do in Nairobi and excited to hear you are planning to visit Kenya next year. I hope you are able to do so.

1. Yes, it is pretty easy to get a taxi from the airport. There are taxi desks in the airport and ones waiting outside in the taxi/cab designated areas there you can take (just be sure to take one from the designated areas and set a price with the driver before you get in). You can also call an Uber, arrange a transfer in advance to be waiting for you, or your hotel and/or tour company may be able to do it for you. The airport recommends having an airport taxi or private transfer arranged in advance to avoid needing to negotiate. The taxis at the airport are regulated and licensed but there are no set fees so they will sometimes overcharge foreign visitors.

2. I think you have since found our detailed 1 day Nairobi itinerary post. That should give you lots of ideas. But in terms of specific tours, this is a full day tour that covers all the places I went on my first visit to Nairobi. But it, of course, just depends on what you are most interested in seeing/doing.

3. You want clothing that is comfortable, breathable, will protect you from the sun and insects, and is easy to wash (good if can be both handwashed and machine washed). Avoid dark colors, particularly black and blue (which attract tetse flies), and bright clothes. Good colors are khaki, tan, light green, gray, light brown, olive green, and other such “earthy” colors. For shirts and pants/trousers, most of our safari clothing (for both Laurence and myself) is by Craghoppers . We like their Insect Pro line (called NosiLife Pro in some countries) in particular. You’ll also want a brimmed hat, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty (we wore hiking boots, but you could also probably do with sneakers/trainers if not hiking on your trip).

But in Nairobi as we noted, we recommend just wearing normal comfortable clothing and shoes. Colors don’t really matter as much. You want to still be careful with prepared for the sun as many of the sites like the elephants orphanage are uncovered. Also important to always have water with you (if part of a tour they will normally provide filtered or bottled water to guests).

Hope that helps, and yes feel free to ask more questions as you plan your trip to Nairobi.

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Kenya and beyond

• 2 Cities and major towns
• 3 National parks
• 4.1 Climate
• 4.2 History
• 4.3.1 Swahili culture
• 4.3.2 Maasai culture
• 4.4 Economy
• 4.5 Flora and fauna
• 4.6 Holidays
• 4.7 Tourist information
• 6.2 By plane
• 6.3 By train
• 6.6 By boat
• 7.1 By plane
• 7.3 By matatu
• 7.4 By train
• 7.5 By taxi
• 7.6 By rental car
• 9.1.1 Booked safaris
• 9.1.2 Safaris on your own
• 10.2 Shopping
• 16 Stay safe
• 17 Stay healthy
• 19.1.1 Mobile providers
• 19.2 Wi-Fi hotspots

Kenya in East Africa is a pearl in sub-Saharan Africa. From the scenic sandy beaches at the coast, to the Nairobi National Park (the only one in a capital city in the world), to the majestic Rift Valley , the bird life in Lake Naivasha, the hot boiling springs of Lake Baringo, Lake Turkana and Lake Victoria, Kenya is a very beautiful country with lots of wildlife and scenic features, and is one of the major economic hubs in Africa . Fondly referred to the "Jewel of Africa", Kenya is a dream destination for its Swahili heritage and the home of humankind and Safari industry.

Regions [ edit ]

Kenya is divided into several different regions, each with its own unique characteristics and differences in terms of culture, landscape, climate, and economy:

Cities and major towns [ edit ]

Kenya has 3 major cities:

• -1.286389 36.817222 1 Nairobi — the cosmopolitan capital city and economic centre of Kenya and most vibrant in the East African region.
• -4.05 39.666667 2 Mombasa — historic port on the Indian Ocean seafront and probably Africa's longest continuously settled town.
• -0.1 34.75 3 Kisumu — the major city to the west, on the shore of Lake Victoria.

Major towns based on size and popularity as tourist destination include:

• -2.268611 40.900278 4 Lamu — main town of the Lamu Archipelago, renowned internationally for its annual cultural festival.
• 3.116667 35.6 5 Lodwar — in the north on the main route to South Sudan with access to Lake Turkana
• -3.219444 40.116667 6 Malindi — the landing point of Vasco Da Gama in Kenya with a large Italian population
• 0.05 37.65 7 Meru — town near the base of Mount Kenya. It is the crossroads for travel to Nairobi
• -0.283333 36.066667 8 Nakuru — near lake Nakuru National Park and an extinct volcano (Menengai)
• -3.95 39.744444 9 Mtwapa - the small town near mombasa has become a preferred place of residence for European pensioners and is a centre of night life

National parks [ edit ]

North of Nairobi: These parks, although very interesting and worth visiting, with fewer visitors than the southern parks.

• 0.291667 34.856111 1 Kakamega Rainforest - last primeval rainforest in the country and home to various monkeys and hundreds of bird species
• -0.38 36.699167 2 Aberdare National Park — a cool and cloudy national park with lots of large game, and over 250 species of bird recorded
• 3.960556 36.3425 3 Sibiloi National Park
• 1.133333 34.583333 4 Mount Elgon National Park
• -0.366667 36.083333 5 Lake Nakuru National Park — a stunning 400 species of bird have been recorded here including the largest flocks of flamingos anywhere on earth
• -0.1 37.2 6 Mount Kenya National Park — challenging trekking on high peaks

South of Nairobi: The southern parks are the most visited, especially by those who divide their holidays between a safari and time on the beach.

• -1.49 35.143889 7 Maasai Mara National Reserve — probably the most popular reserve in Kenya due to the high concentration of big cats
• -1.373333 36.858889 8 Nairobi National Park — virtually in Nairobi and a great option to see large game for those on a tight schedule
• -2.778611 38.771667 9 Tsavo East National Park — major game park for short safari trips from the coast
• -3.316667 38.133333 10 Tsavo West National Park — no. 2 game park for short safari trips from the coast
• -2.65 37.25 11 Amboseli National Park — a swampy lowland Maasai park that is one of the best places anywhere in Africa to view large mammals, especially elephants

See also African national parks .

Understand [ edit ]

Kenya is one of Africa's most visited countries by tourists, and rightfully so - it boasts a diversity of attractions and a well-developed hospitality and tourism sector that most of its neighbors envy. The relative ease of travel, the abundance of tour operators, pleasant year-round climate, natural sights and friendly people all contribute to its relative popularity by African standards.

Although made up of many diverse ethnic groups and tribes, Kenyans have a strong sense of national pride. This may be due in part to their unity in the struggle for Uhuru (Kiswahili: "freedom") – independence from British colonial rule, achieved in 1963. While Kenyans can spot ethnic differences among themselves quite easily, to most foreigners these will not be distinguishable. Outsiders on the whole tend to find Kenyans to be relaxed, hospitable, and joyous. Hostility towards foreigners is uncommon; if anything, some visitors may be uncomfortable with the timidity that comes with a perceived dependence on tourist dollars.

Lake Turkana and the area around is also known as the cradle of mankind as many prehistoric fossils have been discovered. Hominid fossils of significant scientific interest have been found in Rift Valley areas such as Olorgesaille, and it is often believed that this area of Africa is where the human species originated from (although recent discoveries in Ethiopia contest that theory).

Economically, the Kenyan story is one of two steps forward, one step back, and so on. The country is one of the more developed in East Africa, and the tourism sector has made it easy for visitors to ignore the prevalence of poverty with all-in luxury safari packages – or commoditize it into a quick and questionable slum tour. The success story of the local startup scene contrasts with the persistent struggles of the underclass and pervasive corruption. In urban Nairobi and Mombasa, chic hotels, golf courses and shopping malls coexist alongside anarchic shantytowns. Rural economies in Kenya are still predominantly agricultural, but with real progress in the 21st century. All this offers an opportunity for travellers of all budgets to mix and match experiences. For a general overview read the Wikivoyage article on travel in developing countries .

Climate [ edit ]

Kenya experiences a wide range of tropical climates. It is hot and humid at the coast, temperate inland, and very dry in the north and northeast. It receives a great deal of sunshine all year round and summer clothes are worn throughout the year. However, it is usually cool at night and early in the morning. Nairobi is at high altitude and can be quite cold, even during the day, between June and August.

The long rain season is from April to June, and the short rain season October to December. Rain is sometimes heavy and often falls in the afternoons and evenings. The hottest period is February to March, and the coldest July to August.

Game viewing is best in the dry seasons, which are from mid-June to October, and from late-December to mid-March. The annual animal migration – especially migration of the wildebeest – occurs between June and September, with millions of animals taking part. It has been a popular event for film-makers to capture.

History [ edit ]

Kenya has been inhabited by people since the beginnings of humanity's existence as a species.

Arab traders began frequenting the coast of Kenya around the 1st century. Kenya's proximity to the Arabian peninsula invited colonisation, and Arab and Persian settlements spread along the coast in the 8th century. Throughout the centuries, Kenya has played host to many different merchants and explorers (Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, et al.) Coastal Kenya formed part of the Swahili Coast , which comprised of numerous wealthy city-states that engaged in trade across the Indian Ocean and Sahara Desert, one of the most prominent being the city of Mombasa .

Kenya became part of the British Empire in the late 19th century. In the 1950s, a brutal war took place between independence fighters called the Mau Mau and the British, with horrendous abuses of human rights on both sides. Kenyan nationalist Jomo Kenyatta was arrested in 1952 and with little evidence, tried and imprisoned for supposed management of the Mau Mau Society, eventually being detained for almost 9 years. Considered a national hero, he led the country after it declared independence on 12 December 1963. Through popularity, moderation and shrewd power politics, the Founding Father turned the country into a de facto dictatorship (whether benevolent or malevolent depends on who you talk to).

When President Kenyatta died in 1978, Daniel arap Moi became president and, for better or worse, ruled as a dictator for over two decades. Moi did not hesitate to rough up his political opponents, and a key administrative building in Nairobi, Nyayo House, became infamous for the rumoured torture that occurred in its basement. However, some Kenyans do look back at this time more fondly as a period of stability. Following a wave of popular protests, stepped down more or less voluntarily in 2002 to make way for freely contested elections.

Those elections were won by Mwai Kibaki, who stayed in office until 2013. Despite genuine economic progress, Kibaki's turn in office was marred by a sense that Kibaki's Gikuyu ethnic group, the country's largest, was consolidating power. This ultimately led to a widespread outbreak of violence in 2007, when his opponent Raila Odinga alleged Kibaki stuffed the ballot boxes to win election. Over 1000 died in the ensuing clashes. Kibaki retained power amidst evidence of tampering on both sides, and with the pre-election polls indicating a razor-thin election, it's impossible to know who the real victor should have been.

Relations with Kenya's neighbours are generally stable and friendly – except for Somalia , whose disintegration has prompted security concerns in Kenya. Kenya participates in international military missions attempting to defeat fundamentalist group al-Shabab; as a result, al-Shabab has launched several high-profile terrorist attacks in various locations around the country. Kenyans are therefore sometimes mistrustful or hostile towards Somalis, although there are many Kenyans of Somali heritage throughout the country and many others are refugees who fled the country's civil war. Kenya's relations with other neighbors are generally much smoother, and Kenya is a member of the East African Community (along with Burundi , Rwanda , South Sudan , Tanzania , and Uganda ) which aims to foster cooperation within the region.

People and culture [ edit ]

Kenya has a diverse population that comprises 47 ethnic communities with a combination of 67% Bantus (Kikuyu, Swahili, Kamba, Luhya, Meru, Abagusii) and 30% Nilotes (Maasai, Luo, Samburu, Turkana and Kalenjin). An important non-indigenous ethnic group are the Indians , who were largely brought over by the British as indentured servants during the colonial period and settled around major cities, and are predominantly business people. There is also a small but prominent white community that dates back to the colonial era, mostly of British descent.

Notable peoples include the Swahili on the coast, pastoralist communities in the north, farmers in central and western and fishermen around the Lake Victoria basin. The Maasai culture is well known to tourists, despite their being a minor percentage of the Kenyan population. They are renowned for their elaborate upper body adornment and jewellery.

Swahili culture [ edit ]

Swahili culture is a blend of various influences from the East African coast, including African, Arab, and Indian cultures. It is predominantly found in Kenya, Tanzania, and parts of Uganda, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Here are some of the key aspects of Swahili culture:

• Language – Swahili is the most widely spoken language in East Africa, and is a key marker of Swahili culture. It is a Bantu language with significant Arabic, Persian, and Indian loanwords.
• Religion – Swahili culture has a strong Islamic influence, with many Swahili people being Muslims. However, there is also a significant Christian population.
• Food – Swahili cuisine is a fusion of African, Arab, and Indian influences, with dishes such as pilau (spiced rice), biryani, samosas, and chapati being popular. Coconut milk and spices such as cardamom, cumin, and cinnamon are often used to flavour dishes.
• Music and dance – Swahili music is diverse and includes taarab, a form of music that originated in Zanzibar and blends African, Arab, and Indian styles. Traditional Swahili dances include the chakacha, a sensual dance performed by women, and the ngoma, a high-energy dance performed by both men and women.
• Art and architecture – Swahili art includes intricately carved wooden doors and furniture, colourful textiles, and woven baskets. Swahili architecture is known for its ornate designs and the use of coral stone and lime mortar in building structures.
• Traditional dress – Swahili traditional dress includes the kanga, a colorful piece of cloth worn by women, and the kanzu, a long tunic worn by men.
• Hospitality and community – Swahili culture places a strong emphasis on hospitality and community, with extended families and neighbors often playing a key role in daily life. Social gatherings such as weddings, funerals, and religious celebrations are important events that bring people together.

Maasai culture [ edit ]

Maasai culture is a distinctive and traditional culture of semi-nomadic people who live in parts of Kenya and Tanzania. Here are some of the key aspects of Maasai culture:

• Language – The Maasai people speak Maa, a Nilotic language.
• Dress – The traditional dress of the Maasai people includes brightly coloured shukas (cloths) and beaded jewellery. Men typically wear a red shuka while women wear more colourful shukas. The Maasai are known for their distinctive style of beadwork, which is used to make intricate jewelry, belts, and other items.
• Livelihood – The Maasai people are primarily pastoralists, who rely on their cattle for food, milk, and income. They are known for their ability to live harmoniously with wildlife and have a deep respect for nature.
• Social organization – The Maasai are organized into age-sets, which are groups of people who are born within a specific time period. These age-sets play an important role in Maasai social and political life, and each age-set has its own duties and responsibilities.
• Religion and beliefs – The Maasai have a monotheistic religion that revolves around a single god named Enkai or Engai. They also have a strong belief in spirits and the power of diviners and medicine men.
• Initiation – Initiation is an important rite of passage for Maasai boys and girls. Boys undergo a circumcision ceremony and then spend several years in warrior training, while girls undergo female genital mutilation and are then considered ready for marriage.
• Music and dance – Maasai music and dance is an important part of their culture, and is often performed at social gatherings and ceremonies. Maasai music is characterized by high-pitched chanting and vocal harmonies, accompanied by percussion instruments such as drums and rattles.

Despite the challenges faced by Maasai people in adapting to modernization and globalization, they have managed to maintain their distinctive cultural identity and way of life.

Economy [ edit ]

Kenya is a developing country, with an emerging market economy mostly from its sources of transport infrastructure. Its major agricultural exports are coffee, tea, roses and vegetables. In recent times, Kenya has generated its electricity on renewable resources, mainly geothermal energy.

Flora and fauna [ edit ]

Kenya is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, thanks to its varied geography and climate. Here are some of the notable examples of flora and fauna found in Kenya:

• Acacia trees : These trees are a common sight in Kenya's savannahs and are an important food source for giraffes, elephants, and other herbivores.
• Baobab trees : These iconic trees can be found throughout Kenya and are known for their distinctive shape and large size.
• Mount Kenya Afro-alpine zone : This high-altitude region is home to a variety of unique plant species, including giant lobelias and groundsel trees.
• Mangrove forests : These coastal forests provide important habitat for a variety of marine life, including crabs, fish, and birds.
• The Big Five : Kenya is known for its large mammals, which include elephants, rhinos, lions, leopards, and buffalo. These animals are considered the "Big Five" and are a major draw for tourists.
• Wildebeest migration : Each year, millions of wildebeest migrate across the Serengeti plains, crossing into Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve.
• Endangered species : Kenya is home to a number of endangered species, including the Grevy's zebra, the black rhino, and the African wild dog.
• Birdlife : Kenya is a paradise for bird lovers, with over 1,000 bird species found in the country. Notable species include flamingos, ostriches, and the African fish eagle.

Holidays [ edit ]

• New Year's Day (January 1)
• Easter (Good Friday and Easter Monday)
• Labour Day (May 1)
• Madaraka Day (June 1)
• Eid al-Fitr (variable) Islamic religious observances
• Mashujaa Day (October 20)
• Jamhuri Day (December 12)
• Christmas (December 25)
• Boxing Day (December 26)

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Magical Kenya website

Talk [ edit ]

English and Swahili are the two official languages. As a diverse country with over 40 ethnic groups and 60 languages between them, most Kenyans are multilingual, speaking their native ethnic language along with Swahili, which is the preferred language for interethnic communication. Most people, particularly in urban areas, also have a working knowledge of English, though this will vary depending on their level of education. Efforts to communicate in Swahili are generally greatly appreciated by Kenyans and can become increasingly useful in more rural areas where English speakers are less prevalent.

Get in [ edit ]

Visa [ edit ].

̈From 2024, Kenya is moving from the E-Visa to single entry Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). All countries apart from the countries of the East African Community will need to apply for a ETA to enter Kenya. The ̊ETA costs US$ 34.09.

Before the new ETA, visas were not required for the following nationalities: the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brunei, Burundi, Cyprus, Dominica, Egypt, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Fiji, the Gambia, Grenada, Grenadines, Ghana, Jamaica, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Malaysia*, Maldives, Mauritius, Namibia, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, San Marino, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, South Africa*, Solomon Islands, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tanzania, Tonga, Trinidad & Tobago, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zambia, Zimbabwe.

From January 2024, citizens of all countries apart from the east Africa community need to get an ETA.

(Countries marked with a '*' are limited to 30-day ETA stays; longer visits will require a visa.)

E-Visas cost: *One year multiple entry: US$101 + $4.20 card fee,

90 day East Africa visa and one year multiple entry visa are still available through the eVisa portal . Unlike some countries' visas, the application for a Kenyan visa is extremely tedious (8 pages).

If you only get a 30-day ETA stay on arrival, you can get a visa extension. The first 60-day visa extension is free, then a 90-day visa extension is available for a fee. The maximum stay on a tourist visa is 180 days, but most people now get a 90-day stay on arrival.

East African and one year multiple entry Visas now have to be obtained online beforehand through eVisa portal. Two years after Kenya introduced the e-Visa, some scammers tried to reap unsuspecting visa applicants by creating fake websites . E-visas for Kenya can only be applied for on the official government website.

Nationalities from the following countries are not eligible for visa on entry, and must apply beforehand: Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Cameroon, Iraq, Jordan, Kosovo, Lebanon, Mali, North Korea, Senegal, Somalia, Syria, Palestine, Tajikistan.

If you require a visa to enter Kenya, you may be able to apply for one at a British embassy, High Commission or consulate in the country where you legally reside if there is no Kenyan foreign mission. For example, the British embassies in Almaty , Belgrade , Budapest , Guatemala City [dead link] , Jakarta , Prague , Pristina , Rabat , Riga , Sofia , Tallinn , Vienna , Warsaw and Zagreb accept Kenyan visa applications (this list is not exhaustive). British diplomatic posts charge £50 to process a Kenyan visa application and an extra £70 if the authorities in Kenya require the visa application to be referred to them. The authorities in Kenya can also decide to charge an additional fee if they correspond with you directly.

Holders of single-entry visas can re-enter Kenya if they have only gone to the Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda and declare it upon re-entry to Kenya with proof of passport stamps.

Plastic bags are forbidden in Kenya . The ban on the import of plastic bags also applies to tourists. There are strict penalties. Plastic bags in your baggage are to be handed in upon arrival in Kenya.

By plane [ edit ]

Kenya Airways (KQ) is the national airline, and one of the largest airlines in Africa. KQ has extensive regional (e.g. to Capetown, Johannesburg, Harare, Cairo, Entebbe, Accra) and international connections (e.g. to Bangkok, Dubai, London, Amsterdam, New York City, Mumbai). It is also a SkyTeam associate member.

Kenya has three international airports:

• Jomo Kenyatta International Airport ( NBO  IATA ) in Nairobi . Approximately twenty minutes from the main business district.
• Moi International Airport in Mombasa .
• Eldoret International Airport (local flights and cargo only).

Jomo Kenyatta is the primary arrival point for visitors flying into Kenya. There are excellent flight connections provided by KQ to major tourist destinations such as Mombasa, Kisumu and Malindi.

Airlines that serve NBO are: Air Arabia, African Express Airways, Air Mauritius, Lufthansa, British Airways, Brussels Airlines, China southern airlines, Condor Airlines, Egypt Air, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, Etihad Airways, Fly Sax, Kenya Airways, KLM Royal Dutch, LAM Mozambique airlines, Jubba airways, Precision Air Tanzania, Qatar Airways, Saudi Arabian Airlines, South African Airways, RwandAir, Swiss International Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Jambo Jet.

More airlines are flying to Kenya, and Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport has become a hub for East and Central Africa. Kenya Airways (among others) also provides direct flights from Nairobi to several West African countries, e.g., Lagos in Nigeria, Bamako in Mali, as well as direct flights to Bangkok and connections to Hong Kong and China.

By train [ edit ]

It is not possible to enter or leave Kenya by train as of 2024. Kenya Railways have however stated their intent to revive the existing colonial network to the border of Uganda and Tanzania , opening the possibilities of international travel in the near future.

By car [ edit ]

Major roads are typically paved with various states of maintenance though secondary roads outside of urban areas are typically unpaved. All neighbouring countries can be accessed by road, including Ethiopia via the border town of Moyale , Uganda via Busia or Malaba, and Tanzania via Namanga or Lungalunga. Turkana, Marsabit, Moyale, Mandera, Garissa, Isiolo, and some parts of Ijara are considered insecure and prone to banditry and terrorist attacks from Somalia. Before driving to the northern region, ensure you check whether there are any security advisories or whether you need to prearrange security escort.

By bus [ edit ]

Regular bus services operate between:

Nairobi (Kenya) & Arusha (Tanzania); Nairobi (Kenya) & Kampala (Uganda); Mombasa (Kenya) & Dar es Salaam (Tanzania); Kisumu (Kenya) & Kampala (Uganda);

• Modern coast express has buses from
• Nairobi to Dar es Salaam .
• Nairobi to Kampala .
• Nairobi to Jinja .
• Nairobi to Kigali .
• Nairobi to Arusha .
• Nairobi to Moshi .
• Nairobi to Mwanza .
• Mombasa to Dar es Salaam .
• Mombasa to Tanga .
• Kisumu to Kampala .

By boat [ edit ]

This is limited to the coastal area, e.g. cruises from Zanzibar to Mombasa.

Get around [ edit ]

Most international visitors will arrive through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi (NBO). If you are already in Nairobi and need to get to the airport, plan at least two hours to get there as the main road to the airport is subject to heavy traffic jams, and security checks are tedious.

Kenya Airways (KQ) offers the most scheduled connections from JKIA and regular daily flights to the following destinations: Mombasa , Malindi , Lamu and Kisumu . Check in is 45 minutes before departure for local flights and two hours for international. Pay attention to the announcements while in Unit 3 of JKIA as passengers on different flights are put in the same waiting area. If you are flying from another destination to Nairobi and using Kenya Airways in the tourist high season (July–September, December–February), KQ flights are frequently delayed and preference is given to international connecting passengers, platinum frequent-flyer card holders, and first-class passengers. Domestic flights operated on Embraer E190 Aircrafts.

Jambojet is a low-cost, no-frills airline also flies from JKIA and offers scheduled connections to Mombasa, Malindi, Lamu, Kisumu, Eldoret, Ukunda (Diani). Plans to extend the service to the East African region are underway. Jambojet now fly from Uganda. A one-way flight to Mombasa from Nairobi can cost as little as Ksh 3500 depending on the timing (checked luggage requires an additional fee). Tickets can be booked online and paid for with Visa and Mastercard. The airline's Domestic flights operated on Bombardier Dash 8 Q400 Turboprop Aircrafts.

Airkenya, Safarilink, Skyward Express have fights from Wilson Airport Nairobi to Ukunda/Diani, Malindi, Lamu, Amboseli National Park , Maasai Mara, Meru , Nanyuki and Samburu. The lounge features a Dormans cafe. Check in can be done up to 15 minutes before departure. Wilson Airport was once the busiest airport in Africa outside South Africa and still remains a major hub for local flights to the nature reserves in Kenya and to cities in neighbouring countries. Anyone using Airkenya is advised to lock their checked-in bags. Things have been known to go missing from luggage while in the care of Airkenya.

Most charter tourists fly directly to either of the coastal airports of Mombasa or Malindi.

Kenya has a network of long-distance bus lines. Speed is limited to 80 km/h, and the highways can be very bumpy and dusty, so be sure to pick a comfortable and reputable coach company such as Modern Coast for the long journeys.

Local buses in town are run by private companies, such as the green and yellow Citi Hoppa, which provide transportation along various routes for Ksh 50–100. They have regular services in and out of the Nairobi city suburbs. They usually seat 20–35 passengers (no standing passengers are allowed by law) and are a cleaner and less hectic mode of transport than matatus, while still plying many of the same routes.

• Guardian Coach
• Modern Coast

By matatu [ edit ]

Matatus are privately operated minibuses, typically for 14 or 25 passengers and operating over short and medium distances. They provide a very cheap and quick method of transport in all the major towns and many rural areas. The name matatu comes from the Kiswahili word for the number three – tatu – because some time ago the standard fare was three ten-cent coins. Matatus operate along set routes, picking and dropping off passengers at any point along the way. Most rides within cities cost Ksh 40–100.

Many matatus are poorly maintained and many are to be found with a fascinating and colourful décor — usually global icons in sports and music, designer brands, et al. — which is a major feature of Kenyan urban culture. Travel by matatu can be risky as the vehicles are often extremely badly driven, with matatu drivers swerving in and out of traffic and stopping at a moment's notice by the side of the road for passengers. Matatus used to be usually packed to well over capacity – up to 25 people in a 14-seater vehicle. It is strongly advised not to take matatus at night, as they are known targets for robberies, in addition to the increased risks of reckless night driving.

Passenger trains are making a comeback in Kenya with the new railway line, often referred to SGR (short for standard-gauge railway), linking the capital Nairobi with the port city of Mombasa . The line is fully operational with three trains in each direction every day, journey time is about five hours. There is also an SGR line from Nairobi to Naivasha which opened in late 2019.

Trains are branded as Madaraka Express and are operated by Kenya Railways . There is one Express train and two Inter-Country , with the latter making more stops along the route. As of 2024, tickets for the full journey are Ksh 4,500 for first class and Ksh 1,500 for second. Tickets can be bought at their dedicated website . While the trains operate at semi-high speed, stations are often far from the city centre. In Nairobi and Mombasa, travel time from the city centre to the station is up to one hour.

The old colonial metre-gauge railway network (often referred to as MGR ) is being rehabilitated too. While this network is considerable slower compared to SGR (and even intercity buses!), fares are very cheap and the routes are scenic. There's an 2 x weekly train between Nairobi and Nanyuki via Nyeri , departing from Nairobi on Tuesday and Fridays and from Nanyuki on Wednesday and Sundays. Journey time of about six hours. the 3rd class ticket is now 400. Also, there are 1x weekly trains between Nairobi and Kisumu , departs Nairobi Friday. departs Kisumu Sunday on the shores of Lake Victoria. a 3rd class ticket is now 900.

Kenya Railways have stated their intent to revive the network to the border of Uganda and Tanzania too, opening the possibilities of international travel in the near future.

By taxi [ edit ]

• Regular taxis are safer than matatus and some think they should always be used, especially at night. Always negotiate the price before the trip. You can calculate about €1/km.
• Bolt . Includes many towns. ( updated Jan 2024 )
• Uber . Works in Nairobi. ( updated Jan 2024 )
• Little [dead link]
• Tuktuk : They run everywhere in the city centres (except Nairobi) or hotel areas on the coast. These are motorized tricycles or rickshaws like in India, cheap, comfortable and airy, fun and the best way to get around the city centre. Just stretch out your arm and one of what feels like a million tuktuks will stop. Also the best way to get to know a city, every driver will like to "take a lap". Negotiate price! Price approx. €0.5/km
• Motorbike taxi : There are also Boda-Boda , that is, young men with their small motorbikes, mostly by the dozen waiting for customers on the coast or at intersections, hotel driveways, shopping streets, in front of bars and restaurants. An alternative to taxi for short trips and during the day, not recommended at night or over longer distances. You should be aware that this is by far the most dangerous type of transport. Avarice can easily end here in the hospital. If you are staying in Kenya for a longer period of time, it is worthwhile to have one or two permanent Boda drivers you can trust and whom you can always fall back on. Price approx. €0.25/km

By rental car [ edit ]

Most worldwide rental agencies have offices in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu, and these offer reliable cars with a full back-up network. One can also rent cheaper cars from local distributors who are mostly reliable. However it is always good to do a background check before sending in a deposit. When you hire a car, no matter the brand name, always take note of the various dents, or states of the car as it may prove contentious especially when a "refundable" deposit was involved.

When it comes to renting a car for a safari, consider booking a customized vehicle driven by a local tour driver-guide, provided by a Kenya-based tour operator. The reason is that the road conditions in Kenya will pose a major challenge to anyone used to the high standards of quality roads and standards of driving in the West or parts of Asia as well. Roads, even national highways in some cases are in a state of disrepair, may have potholes, unmarked speed breakers (particularly dangerous) and a lack of road signs or directions. It is the general consensus even among Kenyans that standards of driving and road safety in Kenya are deficient and the country has a high rate of serious accidents. Renting a safari vehicle with a trained driver~guide is often not that expensive and this service is offered by companies in Kenya such as Shoor Car Rental and Market Hire. There are two types of safari vehicles: the less costly minibus (tour vans) and the 4x4 Toyota Land Cruiser models which cost more but are larger and have four wheel drive. Both vehicle types have game viewing roofs and the minibus is suitable for travel to most destinations except those that may have involve rough or muddy road travel.

It is quite convenient to hire a car online and pick it up at the airport once you arrive. The minimum driving age in Kenya is 18 years and for you to hire a vehicle, you may be required to be at least 23 years and have a minimum of 2 years driving experience. Other rules to comply with are: drive on the left side of the road, talking on a hand-held phone is prohibited, seat belts are mandatory and drivers must always carry a valid driver's license. Make sure that the car you are hiring has up-to-date comprehensive and PSV insurance which are normally displayed on the top left side of the windscreen. When hiring a car for cross-border travel you might need to purchase additional insurance and carry the motor vehicle original log book.

The Nairobi CBD is traffic prone and it is difficult to find parking on working hours. If you can, avoid going to the CBD on weekdays. However, roads out of the city are relatively easy to navigate and pleasant. Kenya has a lovely countryside and most of the roads linking the major towns are in good condition. Smaller roads however may be dilapidated and you might need to rent a 4X4 to get you there. A good map is essential, and if you are self driving to game parks and the like, a GPS would be very useful - sign posts are rare and you are never quite sure if you are on the correct road, leading to many wrong turnings and backtracking.

Some car rental companies provide free extras like a mobile phone with a local number. Other extras that are available at a cost are additional GPS, child seats, camping equipment, rooftop tent and a driver.

Most car rental companies offer cars of all sizes with Japanese models being dominant. All reservations can be made in English with some rental companies providing reservations in French, German, Chinese and Spanish. International car rental companies such as Europcar , Sixt , Budget , Avis and Hertz offer car rental in Kenya. Local car rental companies like Hire N' Drive & Elite Car Rental Kenya are usually very competitive and professional.

See [ edit ]

In Kenya, nature is the main attraction. The cities offer little really worth seeing, apart from the lively and chaotic city life.

Kenya has some of the world's best game reserves where you can go for a safari , and see some of the finest African flora and fauna . The parks are famous for lions, giraffes, elephants and huge herds of zebras, wildebeests and buffaloes. It's wise to shop around for tour operators before picking one, to see what's on offer, who you vibe with, and to get a competitive price.

The annual wildebeest migration (from Maasai Mara to the Serengeti ) is an awesome sight and best experienced in a balloon safari. Bookings to watch the migration are best done months in advance due to the high demand and limited lodging available in the Mara. Migration is during August and September.

Kenya also is a great destination for beach holidays , with several located along the coastal regions and the city of Mombasa , especially Diani Beach . Other coastal towns worth visiting include Lamu and Malindi .

Kenya is also becoming a golf holiday destination, thanks to the many beautiful lush courses around the major urban areas including some which have hosted international Golf tournaments such as Muthaiga and Karen Golf Courses. Outside of Nairobi there is the well known Limuru Golf Club and the Great Rift Valley Golf Resort close to Lake Naivasha. Green fees range from US$15–60 per round, plus a US$5–7 caddy fee for 18 holes.

The northern parts of Kenya are home to some spectacular tribes living very traditional lifestyles - you can start to encounter these remarkable societies near to and around the main road north into Ethiopia (the A2 which runs through Marsabit and into Moyale at the Ethopian border), as well as west of this in places such as Wamba, Maralal, Baragoi, Korr, Kargi, and South Horr.

Kenya has sites from the independence era and the Nairobi National Museum is a good place to learn about the country's rich heritage and recent events in history.

Do [ edit ]

• If you want to spend some time in the urban social scene, you might consider attending music and cultural events such as Blankets and Wine, which features international and local artists performing in a picnic-like setting for families and friends looking to enjoy African talent. The event happens on the first Sunday of every month in Nairobi.
• Rift Valley Festival, which incorporates a camping experience with a sample of cultural and musical tastes from around the country and internationally.
• Samosa Festival is an event set up to integrate the Asian and African cultures in the country. A significant percentage of the urban population is of Asian (Indian) ancestry and has existed since before independence. Their immigration was brought on by the construction of the railway. This event features cuisine from both cultures, poetry and literature (spoken and written), music and games.
• Maulid festival is a one-week event that can only be enjoyed in the Coastal region, specifically in the ageless town of Lamu, which has the majority of the population of Muslim faith. It is the one event which everyone from the region looks forward.
• The three major cities have an array of nightclubs that play local and international music. Though the experience may be thrilling, it would be wise to visit in the company of a guide or a trusted local, as like any other country with a nightlife, nightclubs may attract untrustworthy party-goers and "clubbers", but this shouldn't ruin your experience as nightclubs are also great places to meet singles and new friends.

Safaris [ edit ]

Safari : Watch a wildlife migration in one of the national parks. Go for a game drive in many parks and reserves found in the country. If you are on a tight schedule take a game drive in the Nairobi National Park, less than 20 minutes drive from Nairobi's central business district. Major attractions: big cats including lions and leopards, buffaloes, a variety of antelope species, baboons, and monkeys, among others.

Most vacationers who come to Kenya want to combine the beach with a safari tour. Safaris are never cheap, as the entry fees are high and the camps are usually luxurious. Cheap mass tourism is also undesirable as it would endanger the animals. You shouldn't visit too many parks in a short time, otherwise too much time is wasted on transportation. Less is more here.

• Best travel time for safaris: The time of the great animal migration depends on the annual rainfall and can be subject to large fluctuations. The best chances to experience the great migration are in the months of July to September. In the off-season after the rainy season (May - June) the grass is tall and the animals are sometimes more difficult to see, except for elephants and giraffes. On the other hand, nature has fresh colours and the safaris are cheaper. In the high season August–September the grass is short and the sight of animals is easier, but also more expensive.
• Getting there : If you want to visit the Masai Mara National Reserve, it is financially worthwhile to travel to Kenya via Nairobi to save the high costs of the flight from the coast to Masai Mara and back. Or, if you have enough time and want to keep costs down, you can start the safari tour from the coast by car to Tsavo, Amboseli, Nairobi, Naivasha, Masai Mara and then back to the coast by plane or train from Nairobi. The best combination of a beach holiday with a safari when arriving via Mombasa are the Tsavo Parks, which can be reached inexpensively by safari vehicle.
• Clothing on safari : Maasai Mara is cooler than Tsavo Parks and Amboseli, sometimes below 10 °C in the morning and safari vehicles are usually open. From 9AM, it gets very warm, so a T-shirt and shorts are enough. That is why the "onion look" is recommended, for example zip-off pants, T-shirt and fleece jacket and a "multifunctional scarf" (as a headband against blowing hair when the jeep is open, as a hat when it is cool in the morning, as a scarf when it is too windy in the open car or because of the air conditioning and as sun protection for the head), possibly also hat or cap and gloves for sensitive people. It is also important to have sunscreen, sunglasses, mosquito repellents and enough batteries, as the electricity in the lodges is sometimes switched off overnight. Light shoes or flip-flops (to get on the seat). Getting out of the car is only possible for a short time, if at all, and not wandering around anyway. In the evenings at camp, a fleece jacket and a jogging suit are comfortable. In Tsavo and Amboseli, short clothing plus a windbreaker, multifunctional cloth, mosquito and sun protection, sunglasses and spare batteries are sufficient. In the evening, if you want to stay seated a little longer, a jogging suit and windbreaker are sufficient.

Booked safaris [ edit ]

• There are a number of reputable travel agencies on the coast or in Nairobi who organize safaris and have great experience.
• There are also illegal providers who work without a license and are cheaper. For your own safety you should give preference to the legal ones. For personal safety, the company should properly maintain and insure its vehicles and have an operating license. Good companies usually have their own office and the vehicles have a company logo that clearly identifies the minibuses and off-road vehicles as company vehicles. For such safari operators, scams are much more difficult because they are easy to track. Company signs on the vehicles should be firmly mounted and not be interchangeable with a handle for the next car, as illegal providers like to do.
• If you want to book via the Internet with the local safari providers, e.g. at Diani Beach (which is advisable because of the good local knowledge), you should inquire about several providers, because each company either works with different hotels or receives different conditions at the respective hotel . The prices depend heavily on the time of year, the hotel and the means of transport to the game drive. Camps in the park are more expensive than those outside. A lot of time is lost for the arrival and departure, and there are fewer opportunities to see animals on the game drive. Safaris in which you are accommodated in a minivan with 6 others are cheaper than if you are traveling with a few in an off-road vehicle. Individual trips are significantly better than group trips in a narrow minivan. During animal migration, prices are at the highest level. For good offers, it is necessary to choose the travel time, the number of people, the accommodation in the respective park, the number of days you want to stay in the respective park and the type of transport jeep or minivan.

Safaris on your own [ edit ]

Safaris are traditionally always expensive. Anyone who is not in good financial shape or is not a fan of organized tours will consider going on a safari on their own. There are a few things to consider.

• Important : Basically, you should only consider this if you have experience in Africa, can cope with the chaotic traffic and the often ailing technology of the rental vehicles. Experience with the behaviour of the very dangerous large game animals is also essential.
• Transport and rental cars : You should start from Nairobi if you can. The distances to the parks are shorter than from Mombasa. It is easy to drive north especially and you save yourself the dangerous Mombasa – Nairobi Highway. In addition, the range of reasonably suitable rental vehicles in Nairobi is better than on the coast. The top rule on the Mombasa Highway is: Give in and think along. If necessary, there are run-off areas that you can use if someone overtakes without paying attention to oncoming traffic. But it should be clear that it is quite exhausting for the driver. You have to like driving a car and see it as an adventure. And: something always breaks on the car on a safari. You always get help, but you have to have the nerve to deal with that. You are allowed to drive yourself in all national parks! Likewise in the Mara Reserve, not in some Mara Conservancies.
• Orientation : Google Maps works generally quite good in cities and on country roads. It's almost useless in the parks themselves.
• Animal sightings : As a self-drive, it will take significantly longer to find the animals. You have to pay the considerable fees per day for the park also as a self-driver. If you want to see a lot in a short period of time, you should hire a local guide who is knowledgeable about the area and who is often even better than a driver from the coast.
• Guides : For the Tsavo Parks, Nakuru and Amboseli you don't need a guide, in the Samburo Park you might need a local guide and in the Masai Mara it is essential. You ask about this directly when booking the accommodation. Good guides don't just stand at the park entrances.
• Safari Card : You have to organize entry to the park. It's not difficult, but you need some information. You can't just go there, as most gates have to be paid in advance or only via Mpesa .
• Camping : Almost all camps are not fenced and some live monkeys and baboons who like to help themselves and have no respect for whites. Most of the campsites there are need to be pre-booked and prepaid. There is almost no infrastructure. You should have the right people with you when camping. The wrong treatment of wild animals can quickly result in disaster.

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

The currency is the Kenyan shilling , denoted " Ksh " or by " /- " following the number (ISO code: KES ). It can be divided into 100 cents, though the smallest denomination in circulation is the 1 shilling coin.

Coins in Kenya come in denominations of 1-, 5-, 10 and 20 shillings. Two series of coins are in circulation, one featuring an image of President Mzee Jomo Kenyatta and the current issue featuring Africa's recognizable animals. Banknotes in Kenya come in denominations of 50-, 100-, 200-, 500 and 1,000 shillings.

Next to cash, Mpesa (phone transactions) is the most popular payment method and much more common than debit or credit cards. Cash can be topped up or withdrawn in various shops.

• ATM networks in Kenya with No withdrawal fee . (Jan 2024) Ecobank, Co-operative Bank, NCBA, GT Bank, Sidian Bank, DTB, I&M, National bank.
• ATM networks in Kenya with a withdrawal fees of Ksh 400–700. Standard Chartered, ABSA, Stanbic, Equity, Bank of Africa, KCB, Family bank.
• ATMs accept Mastercard, visa card, American Express, JCB, Diners Club, Union Pay and Discover cards.

Shopping [ edit ]

Kenya is famous for many handicrafts, which are often the signature of a particular tribe or region. Look for Kisii stone (soap stone) carvings, Maasai jewellery, Mkonde wood carvings, Lamu chairs and batiks. The largest selection of handicrafts can probably be found at the Maasai Market which rotates and can be found at different locations within Nairobi. For example, on Sundays, they are located at Yaya Centre near Hurlingham, and on Saturdays, they can be found at the central business district near the law courts parking space.

On Fridays, they are at the Village Market in Gigiri, near the UN headquarters. Gigiri, like Yaya Centre, is a plush suburb, so vendors price their goods accordingly. There is also a fine selection of stores selling craft goods in Mombasa, where the atmosphere is somewhat more relaxed. However, the best prices can be found by buying directly from the artisans in their villages in the countryside.

Apart from the typical souvenirs such as wood carvings, it may be a good idea to buy one of the large books with photos of wildlife, nature, or culture. Do listen to and buy some local Kenyan music. Reggae is a very popular genre of music here.

Do note that merchants are open to bargaining. They will most often raise the price significantly for foreigners, so do not be afraid to haggle.

Eat [ edit ]

The cuisine of Kenya is influenced by the country's geography, climate, and diverse cultural heritage. Here are some key features of Kenyan cuisine:

• Staple foods : Ugali, a maize-based porridge, is the most common staple food in Kenya. It is often served with stews or sauces made from meat, vegetables, or beans. Other popular staples include rice, chapati (a type of flatbread), and sukuma wiki (a leafy green vegetable).
• Meat dishes : Beef, chicken, and goat are the most commonly consumed meats in Kenya. Popular meat dishes include nyama choma (grilled meat), samosas (deep-fried pastry filled with meat or vegetables), and biryani (a spiced rice dish with meat or vegetables).
• Seafood : Kenya's long coastline means that seafood is also an important part of the cuisine. Popular seafood dishes include grilled fish, prawn curry, and seafood stew.
• Vegetables : Kenya's fertile soil means that vegetables are plentiful and varied. Common vegetables used in Kenyan cuisine include kale, cabbage, spinach, tomatoes, and onions.
• Spices : Kenyan cuisine is known for its use of spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and turmeric. These spices are often used to flavor meat dishes and stews.
• Tea and coffee : Kenya is a major producer of tea and coffee, and both beverages are an important part of Kenyan culture. Kenyan tea is typically strong and sweet, while Kenyan coffee is known for its rich, fruity flavor.

Drink [ edit ]

Kenya has several local beer brands, the most popular being Tusker. Imported beers are generally available in higher-end establishments.

Imported and local wines and spirits are widely available, though it is advisable to avoid local brews such as "changaa" and "busaa", which are often illegal, unhygienically brewed, and whose consumption has led to deaths on many occasions.

Soft drinks, especially from Coca-Cola, are widely available, and the strong, locally produced Stoney "Tangawizi" ginger ale is fantastic.

Most bars and small shops will expect you to leave behind your glass bottles so they can return them to their distributors.

Sleep [ edit ]

Nairobi has a wide variety of tourist hotels , from backpackers hostels to five-star establishments such as the Norfolk Hotel. As long as you don't mind basic accommodations, there is no need to spend more than US$100 per night on a hotel or hostel . In addition, the international Intercontinental and Hilton chains are also represented as well as a number of very highly regarded local chains (Serena and Sarova Hotels). Small boarding and lodging establishments are ubiquitous in central urban areas for low cost, although these are rarely safe as they are located in high crime areas.

Guest houses often offer the best value for budget minded travellers . In small towns or villages, lodging can be found for less than Ksh 1,000. The most simple guest houses have shared bathrooms and start at as little as Ksh 500/night--though often of questionable cleanliness and not entirely bug-free. Private, 'self-contained' rooms go for Ksh 500-1000 and often can be rented at bars or clubs (expect a noisy night).

Homestays are increasingly gaining popularity. Part of the reason is that one can experience Kenyan culture in a deeper and more meaningful way. Most homes charge about US$20 per night inclusive of meals. Some may include laundry on that price.

People staying longer-term may rent accommodation; prices range from estate-agent 'international style' rentals US$150 per week, to privately arranged furnished apartments, US$50–100 pw, to 'local' style accommodation, usually unfurnished, in a price range from Ksh 5,000-7,000 per month with windows, water, electricity, down to Ksh 500 per month with no windows, no electricity, loud neighbours, mosquitoes, and shared access to a tap. To arrange privately rented accommodation, you'll need to ask around – cab drivers, shopkeepers, market traders, could all save you the estate agents' fees.

Learn [ edit ]

There are many colleges offering secretarial and computer courses in the CBDs of Nairobi and Mombasa.

There are also many universities, both public and private, and some participate in student exchange programs with international universities.

Work [ edit ]

A high unemployment rate means work permits are required. These can be difficult to obtain unless you have specialized skills that are lacking in the workforce. You are best off being appointed abroad, as local employment opportunities are low-paying and few.

There are many international expatriates who work for non-profit agencies such as the UN and other affiliated agencies. Their pay is very high in relation to local living standards, and as a result their employees can afford to live in luxury.

There are numerous opportunities for volunteering in Kenya, whatever skills you have. Websites such as Idealist carry details of many of these placements, which could be centred on education, conservation, community development, or a number of similar areas. Kenya's English-speaking history and relative stability make it extremely well suited for this kind of work. In most cases, volunteering can be undertaken with a standard tourist visa, although it is worth checking with your host organization before travelling as the authorities may not always take this view.

If you have specialised skills, there are a number of more focused volunteering programs available. These range from opportunities for medical and engineering placements (for example, with MSF or VSO), to short sabbaticals for people with generic business experience, spent mentoring local businesses, with Skills Venture.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Although Kenya is generally safe, it has had bouts of jihadist activities and occasional post-election violence.

Homosexuality is against the law but is practised secretly. Overt displays of homosexuality (especially male to male relationships) may, at times, result in open hostility. Although violent reactions are quite uncommon, it is best to be discreet if engaging in any such activities with travel mates or locals. However, it is common to see people of the same gender hold hands while engaged in conversation. A new law, with penalties of 10 years of jail for many acts of homosexuality or discussing homosexuality is proposed in the spring of 2023, similar to ones in Ghana and Uganda.

Stay alert when walking or driving through Nairobi . You should always be careful to be aware of your surroundings and, if possible, ensure that you have a guide with you. Even daylight muggings on crowded streets are not uncommon. Infrequently, violent and sometimes fatal criminal attacks, including armed carjackings and home invasions/burglaries can occur at any time and in any location, particularly in Nairobi. Particularly avoid walking after dark. Take a taxi if you can afford it, or a bus if you cannot, but care should be taken as most buses, even modern ones, tend to be overcrowded and can pose dangers from pickpocketing.

Avoid ostentatious displays of wealth. Objects most tempting to thieves are cameras, phones and electronics. The bus from the airport to downtown Nairobi is a notorious target for pickpockets.

Do not ask for prices in English when buying anything, especially from hawkers and bodabodas. Chances are you will pay at least twice normal prices, no matter how good you are at haggling. Use the little Swahili you know so as not to overpay.

If you are unlucky and get mugged, a good tactic is to wave your arms and start screaming at the would-be mugger. Confrontations with armed robbers, however, should be avoided – in this instance, remember that your possessions are far less important than your life. Most criminals in Nairobi are more interested in a quick grab and dash than they are in a prolonged encounter. Since robbery is frequently punished by lengthy prison terms or even death, most muggers can be dissuaded by a good show of force. Like in any other city, it is perfectly possible to see, and enjoy, much of Nairobi without incident if you take sensible precautions.

The north of the country has a reputation for lawlessness, becoming more dangerous the closer you get to the South Sudanese, Ethiopian and Somali borders. Armed robberies and abductions by shiftas (bandits) on the roads in these areas are frequent. Avoid travelling to this part of the country if possible, and take special precautions if travelling by road. Armed convoys are normal for this part of the country. Visitors to Lake Turkana (indicated on the map as Lake Rudolf) in the northwest and Lamu in the northern end of the coast should travel there by air. Lodwar, Lokichokio ('Loki') and Moyale are towns best avoided by the casual traveller, unless you have business with the humanitarian organizations based there.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Protect yourself from mosquitoes , as they carry numerous diseases such as dengue fever , malaria and yellow fever . Get expert advice on malaria preventatives. Guard against mosquito bites. Wear long sleeves and long trousers and apply an effective insect repellent. If arriving from or travelling to other African countries, having a yellow fever vaccination certificate is typically mandatory. The vaccine can be administered at an affordable price at most reliable Nairobi clinics and hospitals.

Malaria medications are recommended if you are travelling to rural areas (Nairobi is not within the malaria zone). The prophylactics most commonly used in this region are doxycycline (an antibiotic) and malarone (a combination of atovaquone and proguanil, also sold locally as malanil). Chloroquine is not as useful because of the high incidence of resistance and Mefloquine, also known as lariam, mefliam, and mephaquin, is associated with various side effects, including a high incidence of mood disturbances and a lower risk of severe neurological disturbance. Consult your physician and government health advisories for current advice.

If you get flu-like symptoms, including fever, joint aches and vomiting, consult a doctor immediately. If no doctor is available, take a treatment dose of an appropriate anti-malarial and go immediately to a hospital. While the public hospitals are slightly cheaper, long waits and poor conditions and care at these facilities may make it worthwhile to go to a private clinic. Costs will vary, but a typical trip to the hospital for malaria testing, doctor's consultation, and medication will cost US$12-30 depending on the clinic. As malaria can become serious, a trip to the hospital is recommended at the first symptoms of malaria.

If you get such symptoms within twelve months of returning home, seek a doctor's advice very quickly and immediately tell them where you have been in the last year. Delayed treatment, even by just a few hours, can lead to permanent brain and liver damage or death.

Do not have unprotected sex as HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases are a risk. The country's Adult HIV Prevalence rate (15th in the world) is over 6.1% or 1 in 16 adults. Voluntary Testing and Counselling (VCT) clinics offer free testing and counselling for HIV/AIDS.

Cholera is another danger. When in affected areas, see a doctor immediately and drink plenty of water.

All water should be treated, either by boiling or through purifying tablets or filters. This includes Nairobi as well as rural areas. Typhoid fever is a risk and, like malaria prophylactics, the vaccination is not 100% effective. It is advisable to buy bottled water for drinking. It is available countrywide. All fruits and vegetables should be thoroughly washed. While eating from the roadside kiosks is part of the cultural experience that one should not miss, such places do not always have the highest sanitary conditions and stomach illnesses can result.

Respect [ edit ]

Although Kenya is predominantly Christian and somewhat liberal, there are areas with major Muslim influence, such at the Coastal regions, where it is considered indecent to wear short dresses. This is true in rural Christian areas as well. The locals, however, are extremely friendly.

Beachwear is acceptable on the beach but not while strolling around town. Nudism and topless bathing are prohibited in Kenya. Even though some hotels allow topless or nude sunbathing, these are in restricted areas and not in public.

Kissing or heavy petting is frowned upon in public, even though Kenyan youth engage in both liberally in night clubs.

Permission is required in order to take pictures of people, as a matter of etiquette. Photos of military and public facilities such as police stations, banks, ferries, etc. are typically prohibited.

If you are invited to a Kenyan home, it is proper to bring a small gift according to the occasion. If you are a white man and go out with Kenyans, you are expected to pay the bills. If you invite a Kenyan out to a pub or restaurant, you are also expected to pay their transport costs, especially if you are a man inviting a woman.

It is disrespectful to reject food offered to you. Always accept tea and chapati, or mandazi, which is very commonly offered to visitors.

The legacy of British colonial rule in Kenya is a sensitive subject, with the violent suppression of the 1950-62 Mau Mau uprising by the British government being a particularly sore spot among Kenyans. Tread carefully when discussing this with locals, and try to do more listening than talking. That being said, most Kenyans bear no animosity against regular British tourists, and you are unlikely to run into any problems so long as you are respectful and avoid political debates.

Connect [ edit ]

Internet [ edit ].

Internet cafés are common throughout Kenya and usually offer decent link quality. Expect prices of Ksh 0.50-1.00 per minute. Most cyber cafes now charge Ksh 1 per minute (2020).

Mobile providers [ edit ]

Safaricom, Airtel, Telkom : After purchasing a starter SIM card you may access the net instantly, if you have an Internet-capable handset or a modem. However, when using your account balance to pay for access, the prices are steep. It is much cheaper to purchase a data bundle, and the more expensive ones offer much better price/limit ratio. For example, in 2023, a 5GB data bundle good for one month costs Ksh 500 from Airtel, while a 5GB from Safaricom costs Ksh 1,000. A SIM card costs between Ksh 50-100.

In 2021, a sim card from Telkom was available for free from any of the Telkom promoters on the streets. A good data package from the same provider goes by the name of "Mambo" (Ksh 100 for 3GB, or Ksh 200 for 7.5 GB, valid for 30 days). Be aware that the reliability of Telkom is often poor and network coverage in rural areas non-existent.

You will be required to provide valid identification as it is required by law that all SIM cards be registered.

You may purchase the bundles by charging your account with scratch top-up cards and then dialing *100# or *544# (Safaricom and Airtel), *124# (Telkom). Once the data bundle is finished, continuing Internet access will consume your account balance (this behavior can be switched off for all providers).

Wi-Fi hotspots [ edit ]

As of 2020, there's been an emergence in Wi-Fi hostspots in Kenya. These include Surf WiFi by Facebook and Moja WiFi that offer cheap internet connection in public places.

Moja WiFi uses points that could be redeemed to access internet. A new user is awarded 50 points on registering on the network. A user gains points by watching video ads, one ad is equivalent to one point. For 5 points a user gets 24 hours of internet access.

Surf WiFi offers cheap internet access. A new user is awarded free 1GB of internet bundle on registration. After that the user receives free 100MB daily by watching a video ad. When a person invites a new user using a referral link both receive 1GB of internet bundle upon registration of the new user. It also offers an app that has an inbuilt map that shows surf WiFi hostspots in the country and recharge shops to buy new bundles.

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Lapped by the Indian Ocean, straddling the equator, and with Mount Kenya rising above a magnificent landscape of forested hills, patchwork farms and wooded savanna, Kenya is a richly rewarding place to travel. The country’s dramatic geography has resulted in a great range of natural habitats, harbouring a huge variety of wildlife, while its history of migration and conquest has brought about a fascinating social panorama, which includes the Swahili city-states of the coast and the Maasai of the Rift Valley.

Where to go in Kenya

Elephants and the environment, kenya’s peoples, kenya’s wildlife websites, tailor-made travel itineraries for kenya, created by local experts.

11 days  / from 3089 USD

Bush To Beach Safari

Explore Kenya's vast national parks such as Lake Nakuru, the famous Maasai Mara and the well-known 'red' elephants in the Tsavo National Park. After a few days of waking up early to spot wildlife, relax on the fine sandy beaches of Diani in the Mombasa area.

10 days  / from 4059 USD

Best of Kenya & Tanzania

A fascinating trip across the Maasai Mara and the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Areas in Kenya and Tanzania. Learn more about the traditions and cultures of the Maasai and stare in awe at the wild roaming wildlife on your several game drives in different national parks.

7 days  / from 2791 USD

Family Safari in Kenya

Take your (grand)children and embark on the adventure of a (family) lifetime: 7 days in Kenya, with up-close animal encounters, game drives to see the Big 5 and plenty of fun day activities.

Kenya’s world-famous national parks, tribal peoples and superb beaches lend the country an exotic image with magnetic appeal. Treating it as a succession of tourist sights, however, is not the most stimulating way to experience Kenya. If you get off the beaten track, you can enter the world inhabited by most Kenyans: a ceaselessly active scene of muddy farm tracks, corrugated-iron huts, tea shops and lodging houses, crammed buses and streets wandered by goats and children. Both on and off the tourist routes, you’ll find warmth and openness, and an abundance of superb scenery – rolling savanna dotted with Maasai herds and wild animals, high Kikuyu moorlands grazed by cattle and sheep, and dense forests full of monkeys and birdsong. Of course the country is not all postcard-perfect: Kenya’s role in fighting Al-Shabaab terrorists in Somalia has resulted in reprisal attacks, while if you start a conversation with any local you’ll soon find out about the country’s deep economic and social tensions.

The coast and major game parks are the most obvious targets. If you come to Kenya on an organized tour, you’re likely to have your time divided between these two attractions. Despite the impact of human population pressures, Kenya’s wildlife spectacle remains a compelling experience. The million-odd annual visitors are easily absorbed in such a large country, and there’s nothing to prevent you escaping the predictable tourist bottlenecks: even on an organized trip, you should not feel tied down.

The major national parks and reserves, watered by seasonal streams, are mostly located in savanna on the fringes of the highlands that take up much of the southwest quarter of the country. The vast majority of Kenyans live in these rugged hills, where the ridges are a mix of smallholdings and plantations. Through the heart of the highlands sprawls the Great Rift Valley, an archetypal East African scene of dry, thorn-tree savanna, splashed with lakes and studded by volcanoes.

The hills and grasslands on either side of the valley – Laikipia and the Mara conservancies, for example – are great walking country, as are the high forests and moors of the Central Highlands and Mount Kenya itself – a major target and a feasible climb if you’re reasonably fit and take your time.

Nairobi, at the southern edge of the highlands, is most often used just as a gateway, but the capital has plenty of diversions to occupy your time while arranging your travels and some very worthwhile natural and cultural attractions in its own right.

In the far west, towards Lake Victoria, lies gentler countryside, where you can travel for days without seeing another foreign visitor and immerse yourself in Kenyan life and culture. Beyond the rolling tea plantations of Kericho and the hot plains around the port of Kisumu lies the steep volcanic massif of Mount Elgon, astride the Ugandan border. The Kakamega Forest, with its unique wildlife, is nearby, and more than enough reason to strike out west.

In the north, the land is desert or semi-desert, broken only by the highlight of gigantic Lake Turkana in the northwest, almost unnaturally blue in the brown wilderness and one of the most spectacular and memorable of all African regions.

Kenya’s “upcountry” interior is separated from the Indian Ocean by the arid plains around Tsavo East National Park. Historically, these have formed a barrier that accounts in part for the distinctive culture around Mombasa and the coastal region. Here, the historical record, preserved in mosques, tombs and the ruins of ancient towns cut from the jungle, marks out the area’s Swahili civilization. An almost continuous coral reef runs along the length of the coast, beyond the white-sand beaches, protecting a shallow, safe lagoon from the Indian Ocean.

Discover more places in Kenya

• The North Travel Guide
• The Rift Valley Travel Guide
• Western Kenya Travel Guide

Local overpopulation of elephants is usually the result of old migration routes being cut off, forcing the elephants into reserves – like the Maasai Mara and its neighbouring conservancies – where their massive appetites can appear destructive. Adults may consume up to 170kg of plant material daily, so it’s estimated that several thousand tonnes of foliage pass through the Maasai Mara elephant population’s collective gut each month. This foliage destruction puts new life into the soil, however, as acacia seeds dunged by elephants are released when dung beetles tackle the football-sized droppings, breaking them into pellets and pulling them into their burrows where the seeds germinate. Elephants also dig up dried-out waterholes with their tusks, providing moisture for other animals. Elephants are architects of their environment , setting the inter-species agenda by knocking over trees, creating deadwood habitats for invertebrates and causing hundreds of other impacts, all of which are natural functions in a dynamic ecosystem. The jury is still out on how it works when the wildlife corridors are closed, or the parks fenced in. What is not in doubt is that their ivory is increasingly valuable and poaching is on the rise again. And when they are closely managed and secured in safe sanctuaries, the elephant populations quickly reach unsustainable levels. The Kenya Wildlife Service is getting proficient at translocating elephants, moving them around to balance the numbers.

• With an area of 580,400 square kilometres, Kenya is about two and a half times the size of the UK and nearly one and a half times the size of California. The population , which for many years had a growth rate higher than that of any other country, is now beginning to stabilize and currently stands at around 44 million.

• Kenya regained independence in 1963 after nearly eighty years of British occupation and colonial rule. The Republic of Kenya is a multiparty democracy with more than fifty registered political parties.

• With few mineral resources (though potentially viable oil reserves were confirmed recently), most of the foreign currency Kenya needs for vital imports is earned from coffee and tea exports, and tourism. Most Kenyans scrape a living through subsistence agriculture and remittances from one or two family members in paid employment.

• Kenyan society consists of a huge, impoverished underclass, a small but growing middle class and a tiny elite whose success often owes much to nepotism and bribery. Unbridled corruption percolates every corner of the country and affects every aspect of the economy.

• More positively, more than 93 percent of Kenyans have a mobile phone , an exceptionally high figure for a developing country. The mobile money service M-Pesa, allowing anyone with a mobile phone to send money to another phone user, is one of the most advanced in the world, and has transformed the lives of many poor Kenyans working far away from their families.

For Kenya’s forty-plus ethnic groups, the most important social marker is language and the best definition of a tribe (a term with no pejorative connotation) is people sharing a common first language. It’s not uncommon for people to speak three languages – their own, Swahili and English – or even four if they have mixed parentage.

The largest tribe, the Kikuyu , based in the central highlands, make up about 20 percent of the population; the Kalenjin from the Rift Valley 15 percent; the Luhya of western Kenya 14 percent; the Luo from the Nyanza region around Kisumu 12 percent; and the Kamba from east of Nairobi 11 percent. Many people from these big ethnic groups have had a largely Westernized orientation for two or three generations and their economic and political influence is considerable. Which isn’t to say you won’t come across highly educated and articulate people from every tribal background. “Tribes” have never been closed units and families often include members of different ethnic background, nowadays more than ever. Politics still tends to have an ethnic dimension, however: people retain a strong sense of whether they are locals or newcomers. Inter-tribal prejudice, although often regarded as taboo, or at best an excuse for humour, is still quite commonplace and occasionally becomes violent.

Smaller ethnic groups include the closely related Maasai and Samburu peoples, who make up little more than two percent of the population. Well known for their distinctive and still commonly worn traditional dress and associated with the national reserves named after them, they herd their animals across vast reaches of savanna and, when access to water demands it, drive them onto private land and even into the big towns. Many Turkana and some of the other remote northern groups also retain their traditional garb and rather tooled-up appearance, with spears and other weapons much in evidence.

Kenya has a large and diverse Asian population (perhaps more than 100,000 people), predominantly Punjabi- and Gujarati-speakers from northwest India and Pakistan, mostly based in the cities and larger towns. Descendants in part of the labourers who came to build the Uganda railway, they also include many whose ancestors arrived in its wake, to trade and set up businesses. There’s also a dispersed Christian Goan community, identified by their Portuguese surnames, and a diminishing Arabic community, largely on the coast.

Lastly, there are still an estimated 30,000 European residents – from British ex-servicemen to Italian aristocrats – and another 30,000 temporary expats. Some European Kenyans maintain a scaled-down version of the old farming and ranching life, and a few still hold senior civil service positions. Increasingly, however, the community is turning to the tourist industry for a more secure future.

East African Wildlife Society eawildlife.org . Influential Kenya-based group, centrally involved in the movement to ban the ivory trade. Publishes the excellent Swara magazine.

Ecotourism Society of Kenya ecotourismkenya.org . This local organization promotes sustainable tourism by awarding ratings to lodges, tented camps and tour operators.

Friends of Nairobi National Park fonnap.wordpress.com. Works to keep open the migration route into the park, and raise awareness about the remarkable environment on Nairobi’s doorstep.

Green Belt Movement greenbeltmovement.org . Grassroots conservation and women’s movement founded by the Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai, who died in 2011.

Kenya Forests Working Group kenyaforests.org . Promotes sound forest management and conservation.

Nature Kenya naturekenya.org . The website of the East African Natural History Society organizes regular activities and has a good online newsletter.

Wildlife Direct wildlifedirect.org. Chaired by Richard Leakey, this is where conservation fundraising meets a network of conservationists, including more than 50 bloggers from the field in Kenya.

Travel advice for Kenya

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Kenya

• Crime and personal safety tips Kenya
• Culture and Etiquette in Kenya
• Eating and drinking in Kenya
• National Parks in Kenya
• Travel Tips Kenya for planning and on the go
• Shopping tips for Kenya
• Entertainment and sport
• How to get to Kenya
• Getting around Kenya: Transportation Tips
• Travel Health Kenya
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Kenya
• Best time to visit Kenya
• 10 days in Kenya — 5 travel itineraries

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updated 26.04.2021

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Flooding Inundates Kenya, Killing at Least 32 and Displacing Thousands

Heavy rains also pounded other nations in East Africa, including Tanzania, where at least 155 people were killed, according to the country’s prime minister.

Residents in Nairobi were stranded on Tuesday after a night of heavy rainfall. Credit... Daniel Irungu/EPA, via Shutterstock

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By Abdi Latif Dahir and Jesus Jiménez

Abdi Latif Dahir reported from Nairobi, Kenya, and Jesus Jiménez from New York.

• April 24, 2024

Days of torrential rains have pummeled parts of Kenya, leaving at least 32 dead, 15 injured and more than 40,000 people displaced, according to officials. The flooding has killed nearly 1,000 farm animals and destroyed thousands of acres of crops, with more rain expected across the country in the coming days.

The rains began in March during what is known in the country as the “long rains,” but intensified over the past week, according to the Kenya Meteorological Department .

Heavy rains have also pounded other nations across East Africa. In Tanzania, at least 155 people were killed and 236 others injured from the relentless rain that has swept several parts of the country in recent days, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa said on Thursday.

The rains affected some 200,000 people, Mr. Majaliwa added, and caused damage to farms, bridges, roads, schools and places of worship. The Tanzania Meteorological Authority warned that heavy rains and strong winds would continue to pummel several towns and cities, including the port city of Dar es Salaam.

In Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, where some of the country’s heaviest rain has fallen, more than 30,000 people have been displaced, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs . On Tuesday, 18 people there were stranded and later rescued, including seven children, the Kenya Red Cross Society said.

Edwin Sifuna, the Nairobi County senator, said on social media that the local government there was “clearly overwhelmed,” and he called on the federal government for help.

“The situation in Nairobi has escalated to extreme levels,” he wrote in a post that included a video of people stranded on rooftops surrounded by floodwaters.

Kithure Kindiki, cabinet secretary for the Interior Ministry, said in a social media post on Thursday that several government agencies were beginning a joint operation to assist the victims, conduct rescues and evacuate those who remain at risk.

The heavy rains on Wednesday forced Kenya Railways to suspend commuter train services. The Kenya Urban Roads Authority also partially closed four major roads in Nairobi and warned of heavy flooding along several major highways in the capital and in the coastal city of Mombasa.

The rains were not expected to subside over the next few days, according to the Kenya Meteorological Department, which had rain in the forecast for parts of the country, including Nairobi, through Monday. The agency also warned of a high likelihood of breakouts of diseases such as malaria and diarrhea in some areas.

The latest downpours come just months after torrential rains and floods killed dozens of people and displaced thousands more nationwide.

Here are photographs of the flooding in Kenya:

A flooded river in Mathare, a sprawling shantytown in Nairobi where many live in tin shacks.

Swimming through floodwaters to try to rescue people stranded in their homes in Mathare. Most of those displaced in Nairobi live in informal settlements, according to the United Nations.

Residents of Mathare tried to salvage goods from their homes. Many people in Nairobi live in high-density areas that lack proper roads, water or power infrastructure.

Residents in Mathare trying to clear muddy water from their homes. Missing or blocked drainage systems have been blamed for exacerbating the floods.

Clinging to buses and trucks to avoid flooded roads in Nairobi.

Homes in several neighborhoods across the capital were submerged, leading to evacuations.

The torrential rains affected almost half of Kenya’s 47 counties, according to the United Nations.

Using a boat to traverse floodwaters in the Githurai area of Nairobi.

Flooding inundated entire roadways in Machakos County, about 35 miles southeast of Nairobi.

The swollen Athi River. The river burst its banks and flooded homes in Machakos County, officials said.

Abdi Latif Dahir is the East Africa correspondent for The Times, based in Nairobi, Kenya. He covers a broad range of issues including geopolitics, business, society and arts. More about Abdi Latif Dahir

Jesus Jiménez covers breaking news, online trends and other subjects. He is based in New York City. More about Jesus Jiménez

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10 Safest Cities in Kenya

Kenya is a must-visit location for adventure-seeking world travelers.

From going on safari to riding a bike in “hell,” there’s nowhere else in the world where you can have these kinds of adventures.

Kenya does have a relatively high crime index level of 64.23, with a moderate increase in crime over the past few years.

But, you can still be safe while visiting. 

The country boasts an estimated population of around 54,000,000, most of whom are welcoming toward tourists.

So don’t put off planning your visit to Kenya.

Keep reading to learn about the safest cities to visit and some safety tips for your upcoming trip!

5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Kenya

Kenya safety overview, what is the most dangerous city to visit in kenya, what should i avoid when visiting kenya to stay safe, what makes kenya a dangerous country.

You can plan a trip to many cities in Kenya without being concerned for your safety.

However, keep in mind that the  U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs  has travel advisory updates on their website to help you stay safe. 

The Kenya advisory level warns visitors to use extra caution due to terrorism, kidnapping, crime, and civil unrest.

This is especially true for the Kenya- Somalia border areas.

Once you’ve learned where you should not visit, next take a look at the cities that are safest for travelers to enjoy.

These cities include:

Eldoret is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country.

Located in the western part of Kenya, you can reach it on the Kenya- Uganda highway as it passes through.

This city is a fast-growing hub for buying fresh flowers and produce, as these items are distributed in the region.

Another popular feature is the Dorino Lessos Creamery Cheese factory.

If you’re concerned about crime, the city has an overall crime index of 28.12.

Property crimes are at a moderate rate of 43.75, so ensure you keep valuables secure.

This city is another gem in the western part of Kenya.

Unfortunately, Kakamega has high crime index levels regarding break-ins and theft.

Simply keep your valuables safe and secure while visiting the area. 

Numbeo.com reports that 93.75 percent of people in Kakamega feel safe while alone in the daytime.

During your stay, this is the perfect time of day to enjoy the Kakamega forest, malls, pools, and more.

Located around 150 miles from Nairobi , this area is known for its abundance of tea plants.

You can also spend time at the Ruma National Park, Lake Victoria , and the Mara Game Reserve.

The area can sometimes get cold, so check the projected forecast and pack a sweater.

Crime is relatively moderate in Kericho regarding theft and burglary, according to  Crimeresearch.go.ke .

Nevertheless, be mindful of your valuables.

Keep them secured or leave them at home if possible.

You can find this city just over 93 miles north of Nairobi.

This city has low numbers of violent crimes per  Crimesearch.go.ke .

Stealing and robbery percentages are high at over 75%, but that shouldn’t be a problem if valuables are secured or left at home. 

Nyeri has something for everyone to enjoy, including Aberdare National Park, Mau Mau Caves, and museums.

The Italian War Memorial Church houses 676 Italian soldiers lost in combat during World War II.

African soldiers who perished alongside them have been laid to rest in another location on the property.

When you want to soak up the sun and enjoy water activities, you’ll want to stay in Watamu.

Enjoy beaches, bays, and reefs during your stay, and visit the Watamu Marine National Park.

Watamu has its organization, watamuagainstcrime.org , to help citizens and tourists stay safe.

Their website boasts low crime rates compared to other cities in Kenya due to their ability to acquire security and supportive services throughout the community. 

Machakos is located in the east part of Kenya, which is arguably the safest place to live according to locals.

Hikers are drawn to the area to enjoy the warm temperatures while exploring the varied terrain.

While crime is slowly increasing in this area, all crime rates are still relatively low, according to  Numbeo.com .

100% of people feel pretty safe while alone out and about in the daytime.

In addition, more than 50% of people consider themselves safe while alone at night. 

If you’re looking to visit multiple cities in Kenya, Naivasha gives you access to roadways that allow you to travel to Eldoret, Nakuru, and Baringo.

Another valuable feature of Naivasha is some beautiful hotels that keep you in the heart of the city but also close to Lake Naivasha.

The crime rate in Naivasha is still relatively low but appears to be increasing, according to a report in  Opera News .

Increased crime can be alarming, but common sense is key to keeping visitors and tourists safe.

This gem has been an increasingly popular tourist destination recently.

The modern urban setting has features like malls, schools, and hotels, allowing it to accommodate just about anyone.

The weather tends to be good much of the time in Nakuru.

This makes shopping the local produce from nearby towns a regular activity for anyone in the city. 

There has been an increase in nonviolent crimes recently, according to  Crimeresearch.go.ke .

For example, there tend to be more burglaries and theft than just a few years ago, but you can take steps to help keep yourself safe.

Isiolo is thought of as the center of Kenya.

This city grew out of necessity around the local military camps during World War II.

Many visitors stay in this town to have access to the Shaba and Samburu Game Reserves. 

This area has also been adding hotels, restaurants, and casinos and will continue constructing entertainment facilities for the foreseeable future.

These attractions are wildly popular among locals and tourists alike. 

Although more people are visiting and living here, crime is still relatively low according to  Crimeresearch.go.ke .

Theft and murder are the crimes with the highest percentage.

If you want to visit a dry, challenging city, you’ll want to see Turkana.

Adventurous travelers can forego a flight to the local airport and drive a 4×4 on rough roads where there are any.

Once there, you’ll do a double-take at Lake Turkana and its bright blue water.

You can also enjoy the springs surrounded by a host of palm trees. 

Nonviolent crimes are a factor in this area, according to Crimeresearch.go.ke, especially when it comes to theft.

So make sure you leave any valuables at home or keep them secured.

No matter when anyone travels, there’s always an element of fear of the unknown, especially when it comes to crime.

So here are some tips to help keep you safe when you visit Kenya or any other location:

• Avoid the Somali border and all areas around it. Terrorist activity continues to be a problem and isn’t worth the risk of going anywhere near this location. The rest of Kenya is relatively safe, except this area.
• Stay away from poorer areas of a city. This can include places where makeshift settlements have popped up. If you want to explore these areas, bring or hire someone who can guide you safely through.
• Never walk anywhere on your own, especially when it’s dark out. If you want to go somewhere at night, hire a taxi, and make sure it’s registered and licensed. Don’t count on your driver to automatically lock your door and do it yourself.
• Theft is a big problem in many Kenyan cities, so leave anything worth stealing at home. This can include jewelry, cash, a camera, or anything else that would make it worth taking from you. You can use your phone in place of your camera, but ensure that you keep that secure on your person when you’re out exploring.
• Pay attention to the political environment or check for upcoming elections before you schedule any trip to Kenya. There can be demonstrations or large gatherings that can disrupt your travel in unexpected and even unpleasant ways.

For more information on traveling safely in Kenya, a good resource is to check your country’s travel website’s advisories for updated alerts and advice.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Kenya Safety Review

• OVERALL RISK: HIGH
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: HIGH
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
• MUGGING RISK: HIGH
• TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
• SCAMS RISK: LOW
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Frequently Asked Questions

While it might be up the ranks in the most visited places in the country, Nairobi has been called the most dangerous city in Kenya by the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC), according to  Kenyans.co.ke .

As a result, local law enforcement recommends keeping windows closed and locking doors at home and in your car to deter criminals.

There are several things to do to avoid finding trouble in Kenya:

• Always be aware of your property and secure it at all times.
• Never leave anything in a car, even if it’s left secure.
• Don’t stash your cash in one place. This way, you won’t be out of currency if you get pickpocketed.
• If you find yourself in a situation where someone is demanding your money or valuables, hand it over. Knives and guns are a real threat, even if you don’t see them out in the open.
• Don’t leave your food or drink unattended because there have been cases of drugging to steal from tourists.
• Do not give to anyone who tells you they need to be sponsored for school or are refugees. These are often scams.
• If someone offers to help you change your currency on the street, walk away. It’s usually a ploy to take your cash.
• Check a crime hotspot website like one from the  Kenya Police Service  before and throughout your visit.

According to the  U.S. Department of State , crimes like kidnapping, home invasions, carjackings, muggings, and other crimes are rising in many cities.

There is also a terrorism threat to anyone who travels near the Kenya and Somali border.

Police have limited resources to help anyone who’s been victimized, so prevention is the best way to stay safe.

Additional Resources

5 Comments on 10 Safest Cities in Kenya

Kenya is a beautiful country with many attractions and friendly people. It’s important to be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions, but don’t let that stop you from experiencing all that this amazing destination has to offer.

Kenya is a beautiful country with so much to offer, and while there are some safety concerns, they can be easily managed by using common sense and taking precautions.

Having lived in one of the safest cities in Kenya, I can attest to the peace of mind it brings. It’s not just about low crime rates but also the sense of community that contributes to a safe atmosphere.

Safety is a priority for everyone, and this list of the safest cities in Kenya aligns with my experiences. It’s a good reference for anyone looking for a secure and welcoming place to live or travel.

I appreciate the recognition of the safest cities in Texas. It’s a great starting point for those looking to explore the state while keeping safety at the forefront of their considerations.

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The World’s 25 Most Beautiful Cities To Visit in Your Lifetime

Posted: April 29, 2024 | Last updated: April 29, 2024

There are over 4,000 cities worldwide, all with distinctive personalities and allure. But amongst them are a few that are particularly enchanting. They have a natural beauty, captivating landmarks, and rise above the rest. Here are the world’s 25 most beautiful cities that should be on your bucket list:

1. Lamu, Kenya

Quasi-Bohemian, peaceful, and unspoiled, Lamu is a city like no other. Characterized by warm beaches and show sailings, this hidden gem in Kenya is where to look for your next trip. Apart from the natural beauty that makes this city one of the most stunning places you'll ever visit, it also has much history to discover. Besides thanking long walks on the beaches and visiting ruined cities, you’ll also find how Europe and the Middle East made it beautiful.

2. Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg is a fascinating tourist attraction in Austria. You’ll be sure to find surprises in every corner. Everything from the Mozart Museums to the Hohensalzburg Fortress and Hellbrunn Palace makes it an impeccable city. As one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, it’s in the northwestern part of Austria. As you visit, you can explore Salzburg’s old town to discover why it’s recognized by the UNESCO World Heritage or see St.Peter’s Abbey and many other attractions.

3. Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is much more than a lace manufacturing capital. It's one of the most picturesque cities in Belgium. Its buildings are intricate as if to be the most beautiful landmarks in the world. Whether it's Burge Square or the Canals of Bruges, you will find beauty in everything you see. No wonder this city is every traveler’s dream! It doesn't skimp on eye-catching attractions and unique chocolate shops.

4. Copenhagen, Denmark

Known as the “Venice of the North,” Copenhagen is renowned for its stunning canals. They are an excellent way to explore the city's beauty. Rich in culture and history, Denmark’s capital has colorful buildings, a biking culture, and exquisite attraction sites. Most buildings feature Victorian-era architecture, making them a sight to behold.

5. Cape Town, South Africa

Four reasons: the beaches, the wine, the weather, and nature; make South Africa a must-visit city! It's a magnificent part of the world full of Mother Nature’s goodness. The oceans are as incredible as the mountains and valleys. There are also unique places around the Cape, including the West Coast and the amorous Cape Winelands.

6. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a 3D architecture book. Landmarks like the well-designed Gothic Cathedrals, Romanesque chapels, and Art Nouveau buildings make it seem like a city out of a fairytale. The diversity in culture says a lot about Prague. Only a few towns claim to have such picturesque views. Did you know that the best beer is in Prague? Imagine enjoying a sip while taking in all the attractions!

7. Marrakesh, Morocco

Diversely-colored buildings represent Marrakesh. Also known as the City of Luxury, it offers a combination of history, culture, good food, and enchanting weather. It is one of the best destinations in the world, according to a 2019 survey. Even its deserts are a thing of beauty!

8. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

If there's one city that draws in a handful of tourists and expats, Puerto Vallarta is it! Its blue waters, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant culture make for a perfect vacation. The city’s sunsets alone are a reason to stay for longer than you planned, with beautiful beaches to boot. Puerta Vallarta is a destination you'll never want to leave.

9. Alesund, Norway

Alesund offers exceptional scenic views, albeit it is a small city. A perfect cross between Venice and Switzerland, it is quiet and peaceful. If you want to relax, you can spend your whole day taking in gorgeous sights. With thousands of flower species to show off, you’ll never get tired of the mind-blowing attractions this city has to offer.

10. Stone Town, Tanzania

The name says it all! Whoever thought stones could be beautiful! But this city has a unique way of weaving you into its beauty. It contains eye-catching stone buildings and showcases artistic culture. Considered Africa’s most beautiful town, it is surreal and sublime. It is an evocative destination that you have to see to believe!

11. Bahir Dar, Ethiopia

This city’s elegance makes it a leading tourist spot in Ethiopia. Picture this: thousands of palm trees, colorful flowers, beautiful lakes, and well-planned architecture. These qualities make Bahar Dar one of the most beautiful cities in the world. With origins dating back to the sixteenth century, it’s fantastic to see the city in its full glory.

12. Luxor, Egypt

Known for the oldest and most stunning Egyptian sites, Luxor is known as “the works’ open-air museum.” It’s safe to say that the ruins are the most attractive part of the city. Showcasing plenty of archaeological sites, Luxor is a show-stopper in its own right. A day is never enough here. It takes up to a week to visit all of the great places this city has to offer.

13. Udaipur, India

Indian cuisine is enough reason to travel to the country. But the beautiful city of Udaipur gives you another reason to visit. Known as the “City of Lakes and Palaces, it's in the lush green hills and azure waters. Named the best city in India, Udaipur’s beauty attracts tourists from all over the world. It also has an abundance of palaces that are now luxury hotels.

14. Chiang Mai, Thailand

As one of the most popular cultures in Thailand, Chiang Mai has stunning temples and unique architecture. It has a relaxing atmosphere coupled with friendly locals and delicious cuisine. With many beautiful attractions, this city has much to offer regarding beauty and class. Its stunning vegetation also adds to its overall serenity.

15. Thimphu, Bhutan

Tall mountains, beautiful farmlands, and quiet waters make Thimphu the beauty that it is. The city has remarkable historic attractions and a unique culture and people. Even more extraordinary is that the city tries to keep its people from modern influences. It has no traffic lights and doesn’t come with abound technology. All you have to do is get lost in its beauty and calmness.

16. Edinburgh Leith, UK

Edinburgh is Europe's most dynamic city. It has a rich history, traditions, and natural wonders. It has a unique way of bringing the past and the present together. The city is also famous for its marine past. It has a bustling neighborhood that attracts locals and tourists alike. Its name mirrors that it is at the mouth of the Water of Leith.

17. Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang is a beautiful and diverse city in Southeast Asia. There are many stunning places to visit here. Everywhere, from golden temples to lush jungles and emerald beaches, offers a picturesque experience. Visiting this city is almost like stepping back in time. When you wander through the quaint, stunning streets, you’ll love everything about it.

18. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Stunning green islands, crystal clear waters, and majestic mountains are some of the elements that make Dubrovnik beautiful. It also comes with world-class culture and historic architectural buildings. If you want to relax, you can kick back on the beaches or search for treasures by the sea.

19. Hoi An, Vietnam

This city has natural landscapes, beaches, and diverse architecture. It also immerses you in the culture and tradition of the Japanese people. It’s a timeless classic that’s worth a visit! The streets are welcoming and filled with colorful lanterns that are enough to make you get lost and fascinated. The city as a whole is the true definition of beauty!

20. Reykjavik, Iceland

The city is an accurate representation of nature at its finest. It is a geothermal delight with breathtaking scenery. No wonder tourism visits to Reykjavik are skyrocketing! It’s best for adventurous holidaymakers who are bubbling hot springs, fiery volcanos, and bewitching northern lights over an island nation. You don’t have to choose between nature and infrastructure because both are equally unique.

21. Phong Nha, Vietnam

A combination of incredible scenery and beaches is what makes this landscape captivating. It’s a perfect blend of turquoise waters and thrilling scenery that stretches as far as your eyes can see. It also had glistening rice fields and enchanting waterfalls that will make your adventure here much more exciting.

22. Cusco, Peru

The incredible architecture in Cusco, by far, makes it one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It has many landmarks that carry a lot of history, making it the wonder it is. Sittings of snow-capped mountains rising over green valleys are as eye-catching as can be. One of the best things you’ll do here is eat papaya on a snowy mountain.

23. Westport, Ireland

Gorgeous rivers flow through the city, with promenade trees on both sides of the streets, creating a view like no other. The scenery, unique pubs, sacred mountains, and history make this city popular. It’s also full of fascinating dungeons, ready for your exploration. Its beautiful gardens will also provide tranquility when you need to relax.

24. Phnom Penh, Cambodia

The bustling capital of Cambodia will thrill you with breathtaking museums, spectacular sceneries, and beautiful markets. It’s a must-see city for any traveler. As a world heritage site, the town features renowned temples, lush attractions, sunny beaches, and delicious cuisines. Its French-architecture style buildings come together to make it the glory it is.

25. Cartagena, Colombia

This list will not be complete without Colombia’s own Cartagena. It carries Playa Blanca, one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. It equally has other beautiful sandy beaches that are fit to explore and Spanish fortifications. Its streets are busy with all manner of good things. The city is as beautiful as they say it to be!

11 Riskiest Train Rides Around the World

There are certain railroads that offer such a delightful and cozy experience, ranging from views of farmlands with flowers to mountain ranges. Makes me wanna just sip a cup of tea/coffee. Unfortunately, you can’t for the train routes we’ll talk about. These seem to be as nerve-wracking as walking on a tightrope. Here, you just can’t sit back, relax, and enjoy.

12 Jobs That People With ADHD Confess To Loving and Not Tiring Of

People with ADHD require stimulation and exciting tasks to keep them occupied, which applies to their careers. Sometimes, a 9-5 doesn’t cut it, and they can find the daily humdrum of life wearing them down. There’s always the question of how long the next job will last before the repetitive work becomes understimulating. Answering exactly this question are millions of successful ADHDers who have cracked the code below.

Turn Your Tax Refund Into a New Ride

With tax refunds starting to flow in, many people are considering ways to invest their money. If you’re looking to purchase a vehicle, putting your tax refund toward a down payment on a used car can be a smart financial decision for several reasons – from reduced interest rates on your loan and shortened loan terms to lower monthly payments – and the timing is right to take advantage of improving market conditions. Consider this information to help make an informed buying decision.

Can You Keep These A Secret? 11 Hidden Travel Wonders That Let You Escape The Crowds

I support people’s idea of wanting to tour a location or be in a tourist spot almost alone. It’s just always better since there would be fewer traffic jams on your way there, the place would be so much quieter, and you get to see the views better. People online share the same sentiment, causing them to discuss these off-the-radar destinations you should consider visiting.

Sky High Cinema: Top 10 Blockbusters to Survive Your Long-Haul Flight

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News & features, winter center, news / severe weather, dozens killed after dam bursts in kenya as weeks of heavy rain devastate region.

The incident comes as flooding has inundated large swathes of Kenya, killing at least 103 people and forcing thousands of residents from their homes since March.

By Larry Madowo, Irene Nasser and Helen Regan, CNN

Published Apr 29, 2024 6:33 AM PDT | Updated Apr 29, 2024 11:12 AM PDT

The flooding in Kenya has killed at least 103 people and left thousands of residents homeless after weeks of heavy rains across the country.

Nairobi, Kenya (CNN) — At least 35 people have been killed and dozens of others are missing after a dam burst in southern Kenya, sweeping away homes and vehicles as the country grapples with weeks of heavy rains and devastating flash floods.

A CNN team on the ground in Kenya’s Rift Valley town Mai Mahiu has seen overturned vehicles, uprooted trees and homes which had been swept away in mass flooding.

CNN witnessed damage to one of the most affected areas from flooding in Kenya’s north-western Nakuru county, which spanned several kilometers in every direction. A distraught man told CNN that he feared several of his family members were still buried under the mud and debris.

Rescue teams are digging through the mud and debris trying to find survivors near Mai Mahiu, Gov. Susan Kihika told CNN, warning that the death toll could rise significantly.

A man is seen in flood waters near a submerged church compound, after the River Tana broke its banks following heavy rains at Mororo, Kenya, on Sunday, April 28. (Andre Kasuku/AP via CNN Newsource)

The incident comes as flooding has inundated large swathes of Kenya, killing at least 103 people and forcing thousands of residents from their homes since March, government spokesperson Isaac Maigua Mwaura said Monday.

In Mai Mahiu, Kihika said a serious situation was unfolding as floodwaters swept away people and homes.

“We are trying to get a handle on the situation but it’s a bit overwhelming but we’re doing the best we can especially to reach those who have been carried away because we hope that some are still alive,” Kihika said.

Access to Mai Mahiu, 20 miles north of the capital Nairobi, had been difficult as part of the road had been cut off from recent heavy rains, Kihika said. Teams are clearing debris as they try to reach survivors and pull out bodies, she added.

On Monday, the Kenya Red Cross Society said several people were taken to a health facility in Mai Mahiu due to the flash floods affecting Kamuchiri village.

“The floodwaters are reported to have originated from a nearby river that broke its banks,” the group said.

Kenya has registered heavy rain since mid-March but downpours have intensified over the past week, leading to mass flooding.

“Kenya is facing a worsening flood crisis due to the combined effects of El Niño and the ongoing March-May 2024 long rains,” IFRC Secretary General and CEO Jagan Chapagain said in a post on X , referring to the climate pattern that originates in the Pacific Ocean along the equator and impacts weather all over the world. “Since November 2023, El Niño triggered devastating floods and river overflows, causing more than a hundred deaths and widespread damage.”

The Horn of Africa, a region of East Africa that includes Kenya, is one of the most climate-vulnerable regions in the world — exposed to increasingly frequent and severe extreme weather events.

While rainfall is set to fall in the region overall, as the world warms, the  frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall  events is expected to increase, as a warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture.

The  deadly rains across the Horn of Africa  at the end of last year, which killed at least 300 people, were about twice as intense as they would have been without climate change, according to a December  analysis  from scientists at the World Weather Attribution (WWA) initiative.

Those rains followed years of catastrophic drought, the worst in at least four decades, which affected many parts of Kenya, killing livestock and crops, and causing widespread hunger and water insecurity. This drought was made 100 times more likely by planet-heating pollution from fossil fuels, an April WWA  analysis  found.

Some 131,450 people have been affected as floods swept through almost half of Kenya.

Images and video from Nairobi, which has been badly impacted, show people stranded on rooftops or salvaging what they can from homes destroyed by the flash floods.

Other video shows vast flooding around the Tana River, with large parts of the surrounding area underwater. Roads, buildings and vehicles are submerged.

The Ministry of Education announced Monday that all primary and secondary schools would postpone the start of the new school term for one week until May 6.

On Sunday, the Kenya Red Cross Society said 23 people had been rescued and others were missing after a boat capsized at Kona Punda while heading to Mororo, Tana River County, on Sunday.

As of Friday, the group said it has rescued more than 300 people since the onset of the rain in March.

Heavy rains in East Africa have also affected Tanzania and Burundi. Tanzanian Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa said on Thursday that  at least 155 people have been killed  by flooding in the country.

More to read:

CNN’s Laura Paddison contributed to this report.

The-CNN-Wire™ & © 2024 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved.

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