- EXPERT'S HELP
- +256789210067
- +256200955001
- info@kenlinktours.com
Tourist Attractions in Kenya - Activities, Attraction
Tourist Attraction in Kenya – Known for its captivating tourism destinations and producing some of the fastest runners in the world, the Republic of Kenya is a fascinating country. Covering an area of about 224,081 square miles, Kenya is bordered by Uganda to the west, South Sudan to the northwest, Somalia to the east, Ethiopia to the north, Tanzania to the south, and the Indian Ocean to the southeast. The country derives its name from the second-highest mountain in Africa – Mount Kenya.
With a population of approximately 50 million people, Kenya is comprised of about 47 counties, each led by an elected governor. While Nairobi serves as the capital, Mombasa holds the distinction of being the oldest city. Other newer cities include Nakuru, Kisumu, and Eldoret. Kenya ranks as the second-largest country in East Africa. The Great East African Rift Valley splits the nation into two, creating mountains and other breathtaking physical features. Although a significant portion of the country is semi-arid, Kenya boasts numerous rivers and lakes, including the second-largest freshwater lake globally – Lake Victoria. Other notable landmarks include Mount Kenya and the Indian Ocean.
Kenya is home to 42 different tribal groups, each with its own unique traditions and culture. Swahili serves as the most widely spoken language among all tribes, serving as a major unifying factor. Among the various ethnic groups, the Maasai are the most renowned and celebrated, recognized for their reputation as formidable warriors residing in close proximity to major national parks. Other significant ethnic groups in Kenya include the Kikuyu, Kalenjin, and the Luo (the tribe of Obama’s father).
Kenya boasts the largest economy in East Africa, with agriculture as its primary economic sector, notably featuring coffee and tea as major cash crops. Following closely behind agriculture, tourism holds significant importance. The Kenyan government has not only promoted the country as a premier destination for the classic African Safari but has also developed tourism infrastructure to international standards. The Kenya Tourism Board is chiefly responsible for marketing and managing most aspects of the tourism industry.
International travelers are drawn to Kenya for its remarkable diversity, offering a range of attractions. These include the great wildebeest migration, the majestic flamingos of Lake Nakuru, the elephants of Amboseli National Park, the pristine beaches of Mombasa, ancient mosques, the East African Rift Valley, mountains, and captivating cultural encounters with tribes like the Maasai, Samburu, and Kikuyu. Kenya boasts over 55 national parks, game reserves, and sanctuaries, captivating many visitors who often choose to settle permanently. Although this article focuses on Kenya, you can also explore things to do in Uganda or attractions in Mombasa.
Tourist Attractions in Kenya
Nairobi
Nairobi, Kenya’s largest city and capital, is a modern, multicultural hub with rich historical significance and a host of attractions, including wildlife, museums, and historical monuments. Serving as the headquarters during British colonial rule in East Africa, Nairobi benefited from a large European settler population, mainly plantation owners and administrators representing the Queen in the region. Key tourist attractions in Nairobi include Nairobi National Park, the Karen Blixen Museum, The Giraffe Center, The Bomas of Kenya, and the Nairobi National Museum. The Nairobi National Museum offers insights into Kenya’s history and culture, while the Karen Blixen Museum, once home to the renowned Danish plantation owner and author, commemorates her life and legacy in Kenya. Nairobi National Park, uniquely situated close to the city, allows visitors to spot the Big Five animals without venturing far into the countryside.
Nightclubs and Bars
For those seeking vibrant nightlife, Kenya’s capital and other major cities offer a plethora of options. Each weekend, concerts featuring both local and international artists entertain revelers. The nightlife scene, while distinct, features familiar music alongside local tunes. Notable nightlife hotspots in Nairobi, particularly around the Westlands neighborhood, attract a diverse crowd, including prominent citizens, expatriates, and tourists, reveling until the early hours. Popular venues include Klub House for reggae music and Brew Bistro for locally brewed beer.
7D Cinemas
Nairobi’s movie industry has flourished, now offering high-end cinemas providing immersive 7D movie experiences. These cinemas combine special effects with films, allowing viewers to see and feel every sound. For the ultimate 7D cinema experience, Thika Road Mall stands out as a premier destination.
By exploring these diverse attractions, visitors to Kenya are sure to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant modern offerings.
The Maasai Mara National Reserve
Renowned as one of Kenya’s premier tourist attractions and among the best wildlife destinations in Africa, the Maasai Mara National Reserve is situated in Narok County in the southwest region, near the Tanzanian border. Named after the Maasai tribesmen, it forms part of the broader Mara Ecosystem, which encompasses 11 other ranches. This reserve, an extension of Tanzania’s great Serengeti National Park, creates an unparalleled wildlife corridor. Welcoming over 290,000 visitors annually, its main draw is the Great Wildlife Migration occurring between July and October, where over a million wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelle, and zebra traverse to and from the Serengeti. Witnessing this migration spectacle, coupled with predator-prey interactions, is a highlight of our 3 Days Masai Mara Safari package. For those with limited time, our 2 days Maasai Mara safari package offers an ideal option. Home to 95 mammal species and 570 bird species, visitors also have the opportunity to encounter Masai warriors amidst the park’s breathtaking landscape. Check out our 5 days Wildlife safari to Kenya.
Religious Buildings
Kenya, being a free country, hosts diverse religious denominations, with Christianity and Islam having the largest followings. Traditional religion persists alongside Hinduism, especially in urban areas. Travelers are amazed by the presence of stunning mosques, temples, and cathedrals in towns across the country. Noteworthy landmarks include historic mosques in Mombasa, some dating back to the 12th century, such as the Dawoodi Bohra Mosque and the Mandhry Mosque. The Basheikh Mosque, built in the early 1300s, stands as another significant historical site. For a glimpse into modern Islamic architecture, the Memon Mosque offers a compelling visit.
Samburu National Reserve
Samburu National Reserve
Nestled in Northern Kenya, the Samburu National Reserve is a lesser-explored gem offering unique experiences. Home to the Samburu people, known for their vibrant attire and jewelry, the reserve stands out with its arid plains, sun-scorched hills, and the Uaso Nyiro River, which sustains lush vegetation year-round. Despite receiving fewer visitors, those who venture here are rewarded with sightings of a wide array of wildlife, including lions, wild dogs, cheetahs, and rare species such as the Gerenuk and Grevy’s zebra. Over 450 bird species further enrich the reserve’s biodiversity. Accessible by flight from Nairobi or by a scenic 6-hour drive, Samburu National Reserve promises an unforgettable safari experience.
Amboseli National Park
Situated near the Tanzanian border at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park is renowned for its vast elephant herds and rich Masai culture. Offering unparalleled elephant sightings and opportunities to interact with the Masai community, the park also presents diverse wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and over 600 bird species. Its picturesque savanna landscapes and woodlands, coupled with Masai cultural encounters, make Amboseli a must-visit destination. Accessible by a 40-minute flight from Nairobi, the park promises an immersive safari experience.
Nairobi National Museum
Established in the 1920s, the Nairobi National Museum stands as a premier institution showcasing Kenya’s history, culture, and natural heritage. Featuring artifacts from various tribal groups and renowned works by the Leakey family, the museum offers insights into Kenya’s diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can explore galleries, stroll through botanical gardens, and indulge in delectable cuisine at the museum restaurant, open daily from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm.
Karen Blixen Museum and the Ngong Hills
Karen Blixen Museum, situated at the foot of the Ngong Hills, commemorates the life of the renowned Danish author, also known as Isak Dinesen, depicted in the colonial-era film “Out of Africa.” Tourists can explore her former home, which now serves as a museum dedicated to her legacy, and visit the grave of her partner, Denys Finch Hatton, atop the Ngong Hills. Open daily from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm, the museum offers a captivating journey into Kenya’s colonial history and cinematic heritage.
Popular Tours And Safaris
Take a Train or Visit the Nairobi Railway Museum
The Nairobi Railway Museum stands as a testament to Kenya’s railway heritage, recognizing its pivotal role in the country’s economy since pre-independence days. Dubbed the “Lunatic Express” upon its launch in 1901 for its audacious route through the African wilderness, the museum showcases historic railway artifacts housed within an old railway building. Visitors can marvel at the oldest wagons and steam engines, including rare models like the German MV Liemba. Among the exhibits are wagons utilized during the railway’s construction to tackle man-eating lions. For a unique experience, travelers can board a train via Kenya’s modernized East African Gauge railway, offering first-class facilities. The Madaraka Express train journey from Nairobi to Mombasa spans 4.5 hours, providing an opportunity to savor Kenya’s countryside, national parks, and local culture.
Tsavo National Park
Spanning a remarkable 4 percent of Kenya’s total area, Tsavo National Park stands as the country’s largest national park, offering unparalleled solitude amidst the African wilderness. Divided into Tsavo East and Tsavo West, the park boasts volcanic hills, savanna plains, and picturesque plateaus. Tsavo West, with its lush vegetation and scenic craters, offers superior year-round scenery, while Tsavo East’s drier landscape facilitates easier wildlife spotting. Visitors can explore attractions such as Mzima Springs, Mudanda Rocks, Aruba Dam, and Lugard Falls, with opportunities to encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including leopards, buffaloes, lions, and rhinos, amidst the park’s breathtaking natural splendor.
The Great Rift Valley
The Great Rift Valley stands as one of the world’s most remarkable geological wonders, traversing several countries in Africa and Asia. In Kenya, the valley showcases breathtaking features such as volcanoes, escarpments, and lakes, offering unparalleled natural beauty. Travelers can explore iconic sites like the Ngong Hills, Hell’s Gate National Park, and Lake Nakuru, which lies within the valley’s confines, attracting birders from around the globe.
Arabuko-Sokoke National Park
Situated 110 kilometers north of Mombasa, Arabuko-Sokoke Forest represents the last vestige of coastal forest in East Africa. Designated as a National Park in the late 1980s, the forest hosts over 250 bird species, including threatened varieties like the Amani Sunbird and Sokoke Scops Owl. Despite conservation efforts, the forest remains under threat from human encroachment and activities, highlighting the need for continued protection and preservation.
Chyulu Hills
As one of the world’s youngest volcanic mountains, the Chyulu Hills stretch across southeastern Kenya, boasting a length of 1,000 kilometers and rising 7,178 feet above sea level. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Leviathan Cave, which houses one of the longest lava tubes globally, and engage in activities like horse riding, rock climbing, and hiking amidst the hills’ pristine landscapes. Home to diverse wildlife including lions, giraffes, and black rhinos, the Chyulu Hills offer a unique safari experience.
Town of Meru
Nestled near the slopes of Mount Kenya, the town of Meru is renowned for its coffee production and cultivation of Miraa, a mild stimulant. Visitors can explore attractions like the Meru National Museum, offering insights into the region’s history and cultural practices, including traditional weaponry and attire. Additionally, the Meru National Park presents opportunities for wildlife encounters amidst the town’s rich volcanic soils and favorable climate.
The Central Highlands
The Central Highlands, nestled on the eastern arm of the Rift Valley, encompass iconic landmarks such as Mount Kenya and Aberdare National Parks. This region, renowned as the heartland of Kenya, boasts a favorable climate and fertile soils, attracting settlers since colonial times.
Aberdare National Park
Aberdare National Park, nestled in the central highlands, captivates visitors with its mist-covered forests, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Home to elusive species like black leopards and bongos, as well as abundant birdlife, the park offers a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts. Notably, it was within the Aberdare where Queen Elizabeth II received news of her ascension to the throne, adding historical significance to its natural allure.
Meru National Park
Meru National Park, though less frequented, enchants with its unspoiled landscapes and abundant wildlife. Blessed with lush vegetation and numerous water bodies, including rivers and swamps, the park provides a haven for a variety of animal species, from lions and elephants to diverse birdlife.
The Giraffe Center
Established to conserve Rothschild Giraffes, the Giraffe Center offers a unique opportunity to interact with these majestic creatures. Founded in the 1970s by Betty and Jack Lesilie Meliville, the center provides educational tours and giraffe feeding experiences, contributing to environmental awareness and wildlife conservation efforts.
The Crying Stones in Kakamega
The Crying Stones in Kakamega, along the Kisumu-Kakamega road, stand as monumental structures symbolizing upcoming bountiful harvests. These natural formations, characterized by water flowing from gaps resembling tears, hold cultural significance for the local community.
Kakamega Forest Reserve
Kakamega Forest Reserve, a remnant of East Africa’s once vast rainforest, shelters unique biodiversity, including rare bird species and diverse wildlife. Amidst waterfalls and ancient trees, visitors can explore this ecological gem and marvel at its natural wonders.
Bungee Jumping
For thrill-seekers, Kenya offers the adrenaline rush of bungee jumping, with Sagana River providing a stunning backdrop for this exhilarating activity. Divided into two major jumps, bungee jumping promises an unforgettable experience amidst Kenya’s natural beauty.
Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake Nakuru National Park, a renowned wildlife sanctuary, boasts a mesmerizing landscape of grasslands, woodlands, and rocky cliffs. Famous for its flamingo population and rich biodiversity, the park offers an immersive safari experience amidst breathtaking scenery.
Kisumu Town and its Museum
Kisumu Town, situated along Lake Victoria’s shores, boasts its own cultural gem, the Kisumu Museum. Housing diverse exhibits ranging from animal specimens to ethnographic studies, the museum provides insights into the region’s natural and historical heritage.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Ol Pejeta Conservancy, nestled at the foothills of Mount Kenya, serves as a vital sanctuary for endangered species, including the northern white rhino. Home to Sudan, the last male of his kind, the conservancy underscores the importance of wildlife conservation efforts in Kenya.
Shimba Hills National Reserve
Shimba Hills National Reserve, located near the coast, showcases Kenya’s coastal rainforest ecosystem and rare plant species. With abundant wildlife, including elephants and Sable Antelope, the reserve offers a unique safari experience within a picturesque setting.
Watamu and its Beaches
Watamu, renowned for its pristine beaches and marine biodiversity, beckons travelers seeking relaxation and adventure. With opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and turtle spotting, as well as historical attractions like Gede Ruins, Watamu promises a memorable coastal getaway.
Watamu Marine National Park
Established in 1968, Watamu Marine National Park is a treasure trove of marine biodiversity. Its coral gardens host over 580 species of fish, along with a myriad of mollusks, invertebrates, and crustaceans. Recognized for its ecological importance, the park was designated as a biosphere reserve in 1979. It serves as a crucial breeding ground for two turtle species and offers a plethora of activities such as snorkeling, kite surfing, fishing, scuba diving, and more. The park’s vibrant underwater world, featuring whale sharks, barracuda, octopuses, and giant manta rays, provides an exhilarating experience for visitors of all ages. With its educational opportunities and diverse marine life, Watamu Marine National Park promises an unforgettable adventure.
Eldoret
Eldoret, a quaint town nestled on the edge of the Rift Valley near the Ugandan border, holds a unique allure for visitors. Notably, it attracts attention from global figures like Bill Gates, who frequents the town to oversee projects funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Accommodations at the Naiberi River Campsite & Resort offer a chance to immerse oneself in the same environment as the renowned philanthropist, making for a remarkable travel experience.
Ice Skating, Go Karting, and Quad Biking
For families traveling with children, Nairobi offers an array of exciting activities to create lasting memories. At the Panari Sky Centre, visitors can enjoy ice skating on Kenya’s first and only ice skating rink, followed by lessons or leisurely spins around the rink. Additionally, thrill-seekers can indulge in the adrenaline rush of go-karting in Langata or explore the Nairobi slums and countryside on quad bikes. These exhilarating activities cater to diverse interests and ensure an enjoyable experience for families exploring Kenya’s capital city.
Siawa Swamp National Park
Siawa Swamp National Park, nestled in Kakamega, stands as Kenya’s smallest national park, yet boasts rich biodiversity and unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Featuring forested areas and swamps equipped with viewing platforms, the park offers sightings of the elusive Sitatunga antelope and small primates like the white-bearded De Brazza’s monkey. Birdwatchers will marvel at the park’s diverse avian species, including the vibrant Ross’s turaco. Despite its compact size, Siawa Swamp National Park offers a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts seeking unique wildlife encounters.
Che Shale Beach
Nestled along the Mambrui coastline, Che Shale Beach offers a serene retreat with pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. Originally established in 1978, the beach has evolved into Kenya’s premier kite surfing center and school, attracting visitors with its tranquil ambiance and vibrant entertainment options. From deep-sea fishing to snorkeling and kite surfing, Che Shale Beach provides an array of activities for beachgoers seeking adventure and relaxation. With its picturesque setting and diverse recreational offerings, Che Shale Beach promises an unforgettable coastal experience.
The Island of Lamu
Lamu Island, situated in northeastern Kenya, stands as a testament to centuries of Swahili heritage and architectural marvels. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the island’s well-preserved buildings date back to the 12th century, reflecting influences from Arab, Persian, Indian, and European cultures. With its labyrinthine footpaths, lack of cars, and reliance on donkeys and dhows for transportation, Lamu offers a unique glimpse into Kenya’s rich history and cultural heritage. Attractions such as Lamu Fort and Museum provide insight into the island’s storied past, while pristine beaches and water sports opportunities ensure a memorable island getaway.
