Things to do in Kenya

The Great Migration

From July to October in Masai Mara one can witness one of the most incredible natural events on the planet – the Great Migration, the world’s largest migration of wildlife. Following the rains, 1,5 million of wildebeest and thousands of zebras and gazelles travel together in a clockwise direction from Serengeti through Masai Mara. This natural phenomenon is a true show. Along the way, drama is always present, as the week are taken by predators, while others are born, sustaining the circle of life. It is fascinating to watch the animals for a few days and learn about their habits and survival techniques.

Wildlife Safaris

Kenya is the country where the word ‘safari’ actually comes from. In Swahili it means ‘journey’. Wildlife in Kenya is often remarkably approachable and present in a great abundance in numerous national parks and reserves. One can see wildlife everywhere here. Unplug, turn off the cell phone, there are no fast food chains, no highway traffic, no man-made noises – only nature and animals. You can get closer to the animals in a safari vehicle, on the back of a horse or walking with a ranger. Kenyan guides are well trained, offering a safe experience and a great adventure for everyone, old and young.

Dream Beaches

Although Kenya is celebrated as a wildlife destination, it’s also home to some of the continent’s best beaches. Astride the equator on roughly the same latitude as the Seychelles and Maldives, Bali and northern Brazil, Kenya enjoys the same conditions as some of the world’s top sun and sea destinations. Pristine stretches of white sand, swaying palms, jade-colored waters, trendy beachfront bars and restaurants add to the serenity. Coral reefs protect the beaches from heavy surf, creating perfect conditions to swim, float or snorkel. The Kenyan coast is as good as famous paradise tropical islands.

Epic Hiking & Climbing

For nature lovers, there are many trails to be walked in Kenya. From beautiful open savanna plains to icy summits of rocky peaks, Kenya’s landscape diversity means with every hike you’ll be surrounded by unique and stunning scenery. One of the highlights is Mount Kenya, Africa’s second highest peak. The summit trails are far less crowded than Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. You’ll likely have the mountain all to your own. There are over 30 routes and trails around Mount Kenya, for all types of hikers. Lake Elementaita, Aberdare, Mount Elgon, Marafa, Loroghi Hills, Kit Mikayi, Chyulu Hills offer stunning views as well.

Rift Valley Lakes

Kenya is part of the African Great Lakes region. The largest one, lake Victoria, contains a few idyllic tropical islands, being surrounded by hills covered in lush vegetation, dropping down to clear blue waters dotted with white dhows. In the middle of Kenya, a chain of eight fresh and saltwater lakes is found within the Great Rift Valley. Naivasha, Nakuru, Bogoria, Baringo and Elementaita offer great opportunities to spot migrating birds as well as a large variety of wildlife. Imagine hearing the sounds of thousands of pink flamingos and pelicans! Further north, the emerald waters of Lake Turkana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are eerily beautiful.

Culture & Heritage

Kenya is home to 42 ethnic groups with unique cultures. Traveling across the country, you will meet the Maasai, the Samburu, the Swahili, the Kikuyu and many more. Their dancing fills the air with human rhythm and emotions. For a great cultural experience in Kenya, head to the island of Lamu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island has been shaped by local Bantu African tribes, Arab traders, and Portuguese explorers. The mix of cultures has created a fascinating history and a unique culture. Lamu includes one of the oldest cities in Kenya, dating back to the 12th century.

Tea & Coffee

The rolling hills of the Great Rift valley receive a lot of rain, which make it a favorable area for evergreen tea plantations. Coffee is grown in the highlands, around Mount Kenya and Aberdare, where the high altitude and the volcanic soils provide special conditions for quality coffee. Kenyan specialty coffee is being sought for its fine flavours of berry, citrus, blackcurrant, cocoa and spice. Visit a tea and coffee farm and learn about the farm-to-cup production process of these popular drinks from local producers. Cycle or hike along the scenic green slopes, and finish off with a tasting experience.

Spa & Relaxation

Take time out for some mind and body pampering while on a safari trip or beach break in Kenya. Many lodges in the bush and resorts on the coast have a lot to offer in the form of wellness and relaxation, especially after a long day our in the sun. The African bush beautifully combines the sound of chirping birds, hippo grunting or lion roaring, rustling leaves and an infusion of clean, earthy air to give you the perfect setting for a relaxing experience. Combining traditional techniques with modern technologies, Kenyan holiday wellness centers offer a plethora of options, from massages to facial and body scrubs, hand & feet treatments.

Diving & Snorkeling

During the beach break in Kenya, it is really worth exploring the underwater world of the Indian Ocean. Reefs proliferate all along the spectacular Kenyan coastline and the diving & snorkelling here rank among the best in East Africa. There are top-notch dive schools and one can snorkel off the back of a traditional dhow. Sea temperature remains at around 25-29˚C all year, so swimming is possible in any month. Several protected marine parks along the Kenyan coast exist in Lamu, Malindi, Mombasa, Watamu and Diani and provide a safe haven for whales, dolphins, sea turtles, many species of tropical fish, and coral.

Hot-Air Balloon Flights

There is nothing quite like a hot-air balloon experience. The absolute peace of immense vistas, muted colours, crisp fresh air and the ever present promise of something wild. The hot air balloon tours in Kenya lift off at the break of dawn, around 06:00am, after coffee and a flight briefing. The basket sizes is limited to a maximum of 16 passengers. The one hour flight will give you a bird’s eye view of the magnificent landscapes. After you land, a champagne breakfast in the bush adds to the buzz you will get from the early morning air and the sights and sounds that only an eagle ever sees. It is an experience you will never forget.

Scenic Flights

The fun and breathtaking low flying experience of land, sea and sky are truly unforgettable. Get closer to scenic highlights of Kenya, while watching the herds of wildlife and flocks of flamingos from above. Fly over mountainous peaks, volcanoes and lakes, the clear waters of the Indian Ocean and the vast plains of the savannah. This can be done as a separate excursion or while getting to your lodge. The experienced pilots are very knowledgeable and will also turn out to be one of the best guides. The flights is done in small charter planes and can be booked on a private basis.