Kenya Travel Guide

by

Kenya is a diverse African country on the east coast of Africa, known for its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and vibrant culture.

This Kenya travel guide will give you all the information you need to know to make the most of your trip to the ‘Land of the Brave.’ From when to go and what to do to things to watch out for, this guide will help you plan your perfect Kenyan adventure.

Let’s take a look at all the incredible experiences that Kenya has to offer:

Overview of Kenya

Kenya, located in East Africa, has dramatic landscapes, vibrant culture, and diverse wildlife. From the snow-capped peak of Mount Kenya to the iconic Great Rift Valley where the hominid fossil “Lucy” was discovered, Kenya has much to offer travelers.

With some of Africa’s best natural attractions and rich culture, Kenya has something for all travelers. Whether you are an experienced safari traveler looking for an unforgettable wilderness adventure or want to immerse yourself in its local culture and spectacular scenery, Kenya has something for everyone. Relax on white sand beaches on the Indian Ocean coast or visit majestic volcanoes in the northern highlands. Take a dip in Lake Naivasha’s fresh waters, abundant with hippos and more than 400 species of birds, or experience breathtaking sunsets over Masai Mara National Reserve’s open plains.

From its national parks filled with game reserves full of big cats and endemic wildebeests, hundreds of bird species coexisting in one habitat, and expansive landscapes boasting stunning mountain vistas – Kenya offers something special that very few places can match. With such a varied environment – it’s no wonder Kenya is home to fascinating cultures, including Kikuyu people, among others – ensuring your travel experience will be unforgettable!

Best Time to Visit

Planning a trip to Kenya can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. Given its tropical climate, the best time to visit Kenya varies depending on the activities you want to explore.

The high season in Kenya is usually between June and August when the country experiences its short dry season. This season is typically considered the most expensive and busiest time of year as tourists flock to enjoy some of the diverse landscapes in one of Africa’s top game reserves—the Masai Mara National Reserve. September to October also peaks because of its warm climate and great views.

The low season typically falls from March-May, and November–December. This period is generally considered cheaper for travel; however, it can be difficult for tourists hoping to enjoy certain outdoor activities due to some areas experiencing heavy rains during these times. If you plan your trip during this period, consult with a tour guide or travel agent prior, as some areas may be inundated with the rainfall making them impassable sometimes.

When you visit Kenya, revel in its wonderful landscapes and beautiful wildlife while considering the expected costs associated with each month’s particular weather patterns. With proper planning and an open heart, your journey will be one of the experience-filled memories!

Accommodation

When visiting Kenya, choosing the right accommodation is essential and can be a difficult decision to make. Many great options include safari lodges, luxury beachfront hotels, budget guesthouses, and even camping in national parks. Each accommodation type has unique advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to do your research before deciding where to stay.

In this article, we will take a look at the different accommodation choices and explore the pros and cons of each option:

Hotels

Kenya has a wide variety of accommodation options for travelers, from luxurious 5-star hotels to budget guesthouses. Hotels are the country’s most popular form of lodging and come in many shapes and sizes.

  • High-end luxury hotels offer world-class amenities, large rooms, swimming pools, multiple restaurants and bars, spa facilities, business centers, and more. They are usually located either in cities or near important tourist attractions. Prices vary greatly depending on location and season, with rates starting at around US$150 per night for a standard double room.
  • Mid-range hotels offer comfortable accommodations with some basic amenities at reasonable prices. These hotels typically do not have dedicated business centers or spa facilities but still provide value for money, given their competitively priced services. Rates range from US$50 – US$150 per night, depending on location and season.
  • Budget guesthouses usually have basic touches such as TVs with satellite channels, complimentary Wi-Fi access, and common room facilities like terraces overlooking gardens or pools that guests can enjoy during their stay in Kenya. Rates are typically less than US$50 per night, depending on the type of room booked.
  • Camping is also a popular choice for budget travelers looking for adventure off the beaten tourist track. There are numerous campsites scattered around the country that offer safari tents for rent, typically ranging from US$20 to US$60 per night, including all necessary amenities like beds, kitchen area, self-contained bathrooms, and outdoor furniture set up in unique locations across Kenya’s varied landscapes from beaches to national parks, etc.

Hostels

Hostels are one of the most economical forms of accommodation in Kenya, making them a great choice for budget-conscious travelers. Hostels offer shared accommodations with the ability to rent individual beds or dorm room spaces. Common areas offer socializing opportunities with other travelers, and the hostel staff is available to help make your stay more enjoyable.

Amenities vary, but you can typically expect private bath and shower facilities, laundry services, internet access, and basic meals. Prices range depending on the type of accommodation and its location but usually start at around $25 per night. Hostels are a great option for solo travelers who want to share experiences with other like-minded people.

Airbnb

Airbnb is one of the most popular options for travelers looking for accommodation in Kenya. Airbnb is a platform that allows users to list and book unique properties all over the world, including homes, apartments, and villas. Airbnb listings are perfect for those looking to experience authentic Kenyan hospitality by staying with a local host or trying out typical Kenyan dishes.

On Airbnb, you can easily find listings offering different accommodation types, private rooms or entire houses. Just be sure to check each listing thoroughly before booking – some may include conveniences like Wi-Fi access, parking, air conditioning, and more. Prices may vary depending on the type of property and amenities offered.

Additionally, while Airbnb hosts often offer discounts to first-time users or longer stays (usually one week or longer), there may be extra costs associated with other services, such as cleaning fees or service fees charged itself. Nevertheless, for those interested in discovering Kenya like a local and having an authentic travel experience at an affordable price, renting an apartment through Airbnb is worth considering!

Transportation

Finding your way around Kenya is much easier if you know your transportation options. So whether you’re exploring the countryside or going to the nearest city, this guide to Kenyan transportation will provide you with the information you need to get around.

From the major airports to public transportation and taxis, this guide offers an overview of the transportation options available in Kenya:

Getting to Kenya

Getting to Kenya is easy, regardless of where you are coming from. Kenya has three international airports in the capital city, Nairobi, and two coastal cities, Mombasa and Malindi. Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is the major hub for arriving passengers, serving several major airline carriers from Europe and beyond.

Kenya is served by an extensive network of regional airlines operating out of the country’s Nairobi and other major airports. However, if you travel long-distance within Kenya, the most popular way to travel is by train. The Rift Valley Railway provides scheduled services connecting many major towns throughout East Africa in a safe and comfortable train environment.

Public buses are available for shorter trips within cities or provinces. However, due to high demand, they may be overcrowded or lengthened during peak times such as a rush hour or during festivals and holidays. Taxis are another convenient option for getting around; licensed taxis have yellow registration plates with a KTN prefix; however, these may be more expensive than local ‘matatus’ (minibusses), which can be found everywhere in cities like Nairobi and Mombasa.

For those who prefer to explore Kenya at their own pace, car rental agencies can provide vehicles according to your needs – both short-term rentals as well as long-term leases with popular companies such as Budget, Avis & Europcar offering competitive prices, especially when booking online through reputable sites such as Expedia or Kayak.

Getting Around Kenya

Kenya is a large and diverse country with plenty of public and private transportation offerings for travelers. Public transportation is cheap but can be arduous during peak times in major cities.

  • Buses: Matatu buses are the most common form of public transportation in Kenya, traversing roads between cities at reasonable prices. Matatus are plentiful, but their drivers often drive recklessly, and their vehicles may be overcrowded and occasionally uncomfortable.
  • Trains: Kenya has a few long-distance trains connecting major cities like Nairobi to Mombasa and Kisumu. Traveling by train can be a pleasant experience due to the country’s scenic beauty, though these services are few and far between.
  • Tuk-tuks and Motorbikes: Tuk-tuks (motorized rickshaws) or motorbikes are popular forms of transportation in towns outside of urban centers, especially on unpaved or narrow roads where cars would not fit or have difficulty navigating.
  • Cars: Rental cars provide an ideal solution for travelers who want to explore Kenya’s big cities and tourist attractions on their terms at reasonable prices – car rental prices range from $30-$50 per day for an economy car. Taxi/cab services are available in most major cities. However, it’s important to ensure that you’re getting into an official taxi with rates set by your chosen provider before getting inside. These cabs generally come at higher rates than traditional ones. Uber is also available in some large cities, such as Nairobi (rates vary).

Sightseeing

Kenya is a beautiful country, full of incredible landscapes and fascinating wildlife. From the snow-capped mountaintops of Mount Kilimanjaro to the white sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean, Kenya has something for everyone. So whether you’re looking for an adventure or a place to relax, there are plenty of exciting sightseeing opportunities in Kenya.

In this section, we’ll cover the best places to visit in Kenya that will make your vacation unforgettable:

National Parks

Kenya is a country of adventure and natural beauty, with diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. It has some of the best national parks in Africa, home to the Big Five – lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and African buffalo. So whether you’re looking for an area of unspoiled wilderness or a place to spot rare wildlife species, Kenya’s national parks have something for everyone.

The following are some of the most popular selections:

  • Amboseli National Park: Located close to Tanzania and Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is a renowned destination for taking amazing photos of Africa’s big game animals. The open plains are teeming with elephants, zebras, and wildebeests.
  • Tsavo East National Park: Another great destination for spotting large mammals, Tsavo also offers rewarding opportunities for bird watching and enjoying views of Mount Kilimanjaro from any number of scenic lookouts in the park.
  • Masai Mara Reserve: One of the top safari destinations in Africa, Masai Mara offers exciting opportunities to observe prides of lions stalking wildebeests and huge flocks of migrating birds traversing the sky above.
  • Nairobi National Park: As one would expect from its urban location, Nairobi has a more relaxed feeling than other Kenyan parks. Still filled with abundant wildlife such as giraffes, impalas, and gazelles, it’s an excellent place to spend an afternoon or evening on safari without taking too much time away from city life.

Beaches

Kenya’s coastline stretches for over 500km and boasts some of Africa’s oldest and best beaches. The coastline consists of miles of white sand, magnificent dunes, and clear turquoise waters. Most beach resorts can arrange activities like windsurfing, kitesurfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and sailing. Check out a few of these resorts to get the best feel for what Kenya beaches have to offer:

  • Diani Beach: located on the coast south of Mombasa. It is a diverse beach combining long sandy beaches, coconut palms, and tropical vegetation with abundant tourist activities like restaurants, bars, and water sports facilities.
  • Lamu Island is the oldest living town in Kenya, still actively sustaining its unique Swahili culture. Here you will find fine white sand beaches backed by swaying palm trees; traditional boats moored at the shoreline, and azure blue waters along its landscape.
  • Malindi Beach: is world renowned for its excellent deep sea fishing experiences and breathtaking views with incredible sunsets that you should not miss out on. This popular beach resort also offers fun activities such as swimming away from the shores or snorkeling close to the coral reef, which makes it ideal for family vacations.
  • Watamu Beach: is situated north of Malindi City on Kenya’s northeastern coast. It offers breathtaking views and inviting waters, where you can participate in various marine adventures like kayaking or turtle watching, among other activities. The cultural atmosphere offered by this beach makes it ideal for vacationers looking to experience Swahili culture firsthand.

Cultural Attractions

Kenya is steeped in culture, with centuries of stories and customs passed down from generation to generation. From bustling markets full of vibrant colors and delicious aromas to ancient archaeological sites, there are plenty of cultural attractions in Kenya that will give you an insight into its past and present.

For a close-up look into local life, visit the markets throughout the country. Choices include Nairobi’s City Market, Kariokor Market, and Maasai Market; Kisumu’s Dunga Beach Fish Market; Malindi’s Cara Cara Market; Lamu’s Ghat Main Busy Bazaar; Mombasa’s Old Town Markets; Nakuru’s Gikomba and Kayole Markets; Nyeri’s Nyahururu Main Street Business Center; or Thika Supermarket Shopping Village.

For a glimpse into historical times, explore some of Kenya’s many archaeological sites, such as:

  • Lake Turkana’s Palaeontological Site (which was nominated for UNESCO World Heritage listing);
  • Koobi Fora on the eastern shore of the lake, where remains dating back 1.5-2 million years were found in 1972 by Richard Leakey；
  • Gede National Monument, located near Malindi in Kilifi County, with ruins from the 13th century still well preserved today；
  • Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site just outside Nakuru town contains numerous Middle Stone Age artifacts ranging from 2 million – 900BC； and
  • Olorgesailie Prehistoric Site is located about 100km southeast of Nairobi, where an American team has cataloged over 690 artifacts from 300 thousand to 24 thousand years ago.

If you prefer something more contemporary, take in a performance at one of the nationally recognized theatres or take part in one of the Kenyan cultural festivals such as Maralal International Camel Derby, described as “The Greatest Show on Sand,” The Barabaig Cultural Ceremony held annually two days after Easter or internationally recognized events like Kenya Music Festival or Film Festival aimed at showcasing local filmmakers talent as well as providing a platform for cultural exchange for actors filmmakers and promoters from across Africa. Finally, if you prefer to remain outdoors, get involved with outdoor activities such as horseback safaris or visit Kenyan National Parks for spectacular game-viewing opportunities to create lasting memories.

Food and Drink

Kenya is known for its rich cuisine with various flavors, ingredients, and dishes. From traditional staples like ugali, matoke, and regai, to exotic seafood dishes such as tilapia and crab, there’s something for everyone. Kenyan cuisine is often highly spiced, so ask if you’re sensitive to spicy foods before ordering. Additionally, many restaurants and eateries provide traditional Kenyan dishes and a selection of international fare.

Let’s explore some of the best places to eat in Kenya:

Restaurants

If you are traveling to Kenya, you’ll find dining choices that range from local flavors to more international options. In the larger cities, an array of restaurants await travelers and locals alike. Kenya is a food lover’s paradise, from well-known eateries to street-side vendors.

Restaurants in Kenya vary significantly in their atmosphere, offerings, and menus. You can find traditional Kenyan dishes like ugali – a cornmeal dish – or nyama choma – grilled meat – served with sides of potatoes and tomatoes from local restaurants or stood at many outdoor markets. For those who prefer Western dining experiences, international cuisines (Italian, Chinese, Mexican, and more) are available at various cafes and full-service restaurants in large towns and cities.

You may also want to try big fish fresh from Kenyan lakes, such as tilapia or catfish. And while meals out may be pricier than those cooked at home or purchased from street vendors, the overall quality is always higher at restaurants. Most will offer vegetarian meals as well.

The neighborhoods surrounding hotels should be your first stop when searching for quality eateries; these come especially recommended for adventurous diners looking for an authentic experience with great food!

Local Cuisine

Kenyan cuisine comprises a diverse range of traditional dishes, which vary between regions, cultures, and faiths. Kenyan staples include:

  • Ugali (maize porridge).
  • Matoke (green banana).
  • Mukimo (mashed potatoes and green vegetables with milk).
  • Irio (mashed potatoes, green vegetables, and maize).

In the coastal region, fresh fish is cooked in coconut milk and spices to create delicious dishes such as pilipili hoho and kaimati. In the central region, nyama choma consists of grilled goat or beef flavored with spices at roadside stalls. Finally, in the highlands, you can find goat soup and mukimu wa samaki – a spicy fish dish combining garlic, onions, tomatoes, and chili.

In addition to these local specialties, common on regular menus throughout Kenya include chapatti (bread similar to an Indian paratha), samosas (deep-fried pastry) accompanied by chai tea – sometimes made thicker with added sugar or sweetened condensed milk, giving it a cardamom-vanilla taste similar to Turkish coffee. Coffee is also widely enjoyed in Kenya for food service industry outlets and home consumption, as beans are widely available throughout supermarkets alongside dried tea leaves traditionally found in plastic bags.

Bars and Nightlife

Kenya’s nightlife is a vibrant mix of DJs, live music, and bars and nightclubs. In urban areas like Nairobi, you’ll find high-energy places to party late into the night. In addition, there are many hidden spots within these cities with unique atmospheres; some are open until late, so check out the city’s guidebooks for those gems.

Throughout Kenya, you will find lively bars, pubs serving ice-cold beer in an exotic or traditional setting, whiskey bars with a variety of offerings from all over the world, and gyms with restaurants attached where you can watch sports on TV or grab a drink after your workout.

Nairobi has something for everyone, from hip-hop clubs to shisha bars offering various flavors of tobacco smoked through water pipes while sitting outdoors under the African stars. From informal beachfront bars near the ocean to outdoor oases offering natural beauty and food and drinks. Nairobi will keep any traveler intrigued until sunrise!

Outside of Nairobi, there is something special waiting just around each corner. Grabbing dinner in a rural area may expose one to delicious locally-sourced buffalo meat served alongside maize meal eaten with your hands, followed by Tusker beer (Kenya’s national lager) at an outdoor fire circle adjacent to your makeshift dinner table – nothing could beat that experience! Safari lodges have unique local drinks crafted from regionally sourced fruits or traditional grass-fed milk combined with liquors found only in Kenya.

No matter where you travel in Kenya, there is boundless potential for adventure during both daytime and nighttime hours – roving bands of Masai warriors leading by flashlight give tourists a front-row seat into Kenya’s native culture shared during storytelling sessions as bushfires crackle behind them; this is just one such example highlighting the magic of traveling at night here in East Africa! So now that you know what to expect, break away from everyday routines once the day fades into night and allow yourself to explore Kenya’s usually unseen side – find out why people come here back year after year!

Safety and Security

When traveling to Kenya, it is important to remain aware of safety and security considerations. However, Kenya is generally a safe country to visit, and with some planning and common sense, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

This guide will provide an overview of the safety and security considerations to keep in mind when visiting Kenya:

Local Laws and Customs

Kenya is a beautiful and diverse country to travel in, but as with any international travel, you should be aware of the local laws and customs. Therefore, it is important to familiarize yourself with the local culture, tradition, and sensitivities so that your visit is pleasant and respectful.

In Kenya, it is illegal to take photographs of official buildings or installations such as state houses, military sites, or airports. You must also seek permission to photograph people in public spaces or private homes. It is socially unacceptable for women not to wear clothing covering the shoulders and knees outside. Homosexuality is illegal in Kenya and can be punished by jail terms.

Alcohol intoxication while outdoors is not allowed, particularly during the day. If you choose to drink alcohol, please do so responsibly – consuming alcohol while operating a motor vehicle will result in serious consequences, including criminal charges and heavy fines. Always be conscious of your safety when out at night; exercise caution on poorly lit streets and avoid walking alone after dark if possible. In rural areas, it may not be safe for travelers to venture off alone; please talk with locals or consult your tour operator if you have any questions about local customs.

Important Documents

When traveling to Kenya, you must have all the necessary documents. Before beginning your trip, carry copies of your travel documents, including your passport and driver’s license, in case the originals are misplaced or stolen. In addition, if you plan on renting a car, you should have all relevant documents, such as a valid credit card and proof of insurance.

Other important documents include tickets, visa/work permit, reservations, hotel/hostel/resort confirmation numbers, letters of invitation/sponsorship (if applicable), vaccination papers (if traveling with pets), and any other documentation required for entry and exit. Please note that visitors wishing to stay longer than 30 days must obtain a work permit and may require more extensive documentation than those who can stay for less time.

Those wishing to travel overland through Africa must also get their TravelersVisa at the local immigration office before departure. This document is usually issued for up to 3 months but is renewable if needed by application with the local authorities.

Make sure to contact your local embassy or consulate before departure, as they may require extra documentation depending on the nature of your visit. Additionally, it is recommended that visitors carry enough cash in appropriate currencies (besides US Dollars) during their stay in Kenya, as not all places accept credit cards or traveler’s cheques due to high transaction fees or lack of access in rural areas. Moreover, some tourist sites or shops may charge additional fees payable only in cash, so please make sure you plan!

Health and Safety Tips

Whether traveling to Kenya for vacation or business, staying safe and secure while you are is important, there are a few key safety and security tips all travelers should know to have a great and safe experience in Kenya.

  • Be aware of your personal belongings, and always carry them when possible. Keep valuables – such as passports, cash, credit cards, and phones – out of sight; wear pouches under clothing to help do this. Additionally, wearing inconspicuous clothing with your wallet close to your body is advisable.
  • Try not to travel alone at night or walk alone in unfamiliar areas during the day. Neutralize any risks by arranging for transportation in advance or traveling in groups. Be mindful when taking taxis from airports or other tourist locations: always agree on the price beforehand (if possible) and make sure the driver is registered with the local tourism agency. Whenever possible, take advantage of hotel-provided shuttle services for day trips around major cities and programs such as Uber for more distant locations; these services provide a more reliable method of transportation that helps ensure safety during travels between spots within the country.
  • Avoid displaying signs suggesting you are wealthy when traveling outside major cities – don’t draw attention to yourself. Ask locals about each area’s reputation before visiting to understand what areas may be considered unsafe because of crime rate or lack of basic resources like electricity/water etc.
  • Always ensure that the bills (both local currency & US dollars) used by locals are genuine: check their authenticity before using them as counterfeit notes have become increasingly common lately, which can lead to loss if exchanged without caution by unsuspecting travelers who don’t understand how much money they may have been conned out of! Thus, be mindful when receiving money from local merchants during transactions throughout your travels— Kenyan tourists should especially stick with official banks/currency exchange centers whenever possible for streamlined exchanges so that mistakes aren’t made due to overly large discrepancies between less legitimate sources!