10 Best Things To Do in Kenya

Beautiful landscapes, incredible wildlife in their natural habitat, and a tropical Indian Ocean coastline are just a few widely recognized attractions in Kenya. There are many things to do in Kenya, from exploring the capital city of Nairobi to walking through the breathtaking Great Rift Valley and hanging out on Lake Victoria. It's no wonder that Kenya has seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Top Things To Do In Kenya

1. Wildlife Safari

There's nothing more famous about Kenya than going on a safari in one of the many national parks or reserves throughout the country, like the stunning Nairobi National Park. The most famous wildlife viewing sanctuaries include Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, and Tsavo East.

For many, the goal is to glimpse the African Big 5: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. The smaller ones or animals further away are better visible using magnifying devices. A monocular like the Scout TK will provide 200 yards of visibility.

Safaris can be expensive, but many travelers consider a safari and observing African animals in their natural habitat a once-in-a-lifetime experience. There's nothing more stunning than watching African elephants (baby elephants are adorable), black rhinos, and white rhinos, not to mention countless species of birds, while out on game drives or walking safaris.

Are you ready to go on safari in Kenya? Compare these two incredible trips from G Adventures!

• Kenya Camping Safari 
• Kenya Overland: Rhinos & National Reserves 

2. Witness the Wildebeest Migration

The Maasai Mara game reserve in Kenya and the Serengeti in Tanzania share the annual wildebeest migration, a truly unique and captivating event. Witnessing this natural land migration, one of the few that remains intact today, is a privilege.

Every year, a staggering 1.5 million wildebeests and zebras embark on a journey for food and water, making it one of the most awe-inspiring natural events. This great migration typically occurs between July and August, depending on the rainy season.

3. Relax on the East African Coast

The East African coast of Kenya is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a beach holiday. The laid-back attitude and friendly Kenyans along the shore add to the serenity, along with pristine stretches of white sand on beautiful beaches with swaying palms.

To top it all off, you can scuba dive in the clear, blue Indian Ocean. This is one of the best ways to explore the coral reefs off Kenya's coast, a great spot to appreciate Kenya's extraordinary biodiversity. To check out the Kenyan coast, you might visit areas around Mombasa, Diani Beach, Malindi, or Kilifi.

4. Cultural Travel on the Island of Lamu

Just off the coast of Kenya is a small cultural island called Lamu. For hundreds of years, local Bantu African tribes, Arab traders, and Portuguese explorers have shaped the island. The mix of cultures has created a fascinating history and a unique Swahili people and culture. Lamu is one of the oldest inhabited cities in Kenya.

5. Climb Mount Kenya

Not nearly as popular as the neighboring giant Mount Kilimanjaro, Mt Kenya remains Africa's second tallest peak. It is often considered one of the best places for a more challenging climb. The breathtaking scenery is marked by incredible views of Kenya and glimpses of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Most trekkers summit Mount Kenya at Lenana Peak.

6. Hike Through Hell's Gate

Growing up in Kenya, one of my favorite things to do was take a trip to Hell's Gate National Park with my friends. The most remarkable thing about the park is that cycling and walking are permitted without a guide (and there are lions in the park!).

The canyon gorge, jagged rock formations, and camping opportunities make Hell's Gate a great place to visit in Kenya. If you love Hell's Gate, check out the wonderful Amboseli National Park, Fort Jesus, and Maasai Mara National Reserve.

7. River Raft the Tana River

Whitewater rafting and kayaking in Kenya's Tana River are becoming popular activities. The river offers adventurous Class III, IV, and V rapids and an opportunity to view Kenya's nature from the river. The ecosystem and bird viewing while rafting through the valley are spectacular.

8. Hang Out on Lake Victoria

Kisumu is one of the best cities in Kenya to visit. It's located on the shores of Lake Victoria, the great African lake. From serene sunset views of the lake to fresh fish and a laid-back atmosphere, Kisumu is a pleasant town.

Ndere Island National Park is a bird and wildlife sanctuary with hiking trails and a few campsites. If you enjoy Lake Victora, you can also check out Lake Turkana, another oasis of natural beauty in Kenya.

9. Explore Nairobi

There's no denying that Nairobi doesn't always get the best reputation. Sure, there is crime within the city, but visiting Nairobi will be a rewarding experience if you take the necessary precautions.

Nairobi is the largest city in Kenya and offers a mixed bag of historical museums, African tribal exhibitions, Kenyan street food, local markets, narrow streets, modern shopping malls, international and domestic restaurants, and even the Nairobi National Park on the outskirts of town. Be sure to check out these 101 things to do in Nairobi.

10. Eat Nyama Choma

Everyone who can afford meat in Kenya enjoys a good dose of nyama choma now and then. Nyama choma is Kenya's roasted meat on the grill – most authentically prepared at roadside butcheries.

The standard procedure is to walk into the butchery, have the butcher slice a hunk of meat right off the carcass, and let it roast as you wait, sipping on a Kenyan Tusker. Goat is the most popular meat, but beef and chicken are also usually available.

See also: Nightlife in Kenya

Wrapping Up

We hope this guide to the top things to do in Kenya helped inspire you to plan your next trip. Independent travel in East Africa can be tricky, and specific experiences such as safaris will require you to join a guided tour.

To make life easier, consider booking a small-group tour from G Adventures:

• Kenya Camping Safari – a top-selling 9-day trip with stops in the Maasai Mara and several other national parks
• Kenya Overland: Rhinos & National Reserves – an affordable 6-day trip from Nairobi to Kampala, Uganda, with stops in the Maasai Mara and Lake Nakuru National Reserve
• Kenya & Tanzania Camping Safari – an epic 14-day tour from Nairobi to Arusha, Tanzania.

Highlights include safaris in the Maasai Mara in Kenya, Serengeti National Park, and Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania.

Last Updated on September 7, 2024 by Dave Lee