Things to Do in Kenya

Taking a boat ride on Lake Naivasha is a serene thing to do in Kenya, offering a unique way to view wildlife. The freshwater lake is home to hippos, a variety of bird species, and often grazing animals along its shores. Boat rides provide close encounters with hippos and opportunities for birdwatching, including sightings of fish eagles, herons, and kingfishers. The lake's tranquil environment makes it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.

Best Time: July - October

Known For : Balloon Safari Game Drives Walking Safaris

One of the top things to do in Kenya is to embark on a safari in the Maasai Mara National Reserve. This world-renowned reserve is famous for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains in search of fresh grazing. Visitors can also spot the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos—along with a plethora of other wildlife. The open savannahs and dramatic landscapes make for an unforgettable safari experience.

Best Time: June to October

8 Masai Mara Attractions

Exploring the Nairobi National Museum is one of the top things to do in Kenya for history buffs. The museum offers extensive exhibits on Kenya's natural history, culture, art, and archaeology. Highlights include fossils from early human ancestors, traditional artifacts, and contemporary art. The adjacent botanical gardens and snake park add to the museum's appeal, making it a comprehensive cultural experience.

Known For : Haller Park

Deep-sea fishing in Mombasa is an exhilarating thing to do in Kenya for fishing enthusiasts. The waters off the coast of Mombasa are rich with game fish, including marlin, sailfish, and tuna. Fishing charters are available for both beginners and experienced anglers, offering the chance to catch some impressive fish. The experience combines the thrill of the catch with the beauty of the Indian Ocean.

Best Time: July to September

34 Mombasa Attractions

Going on a camel safari in Samburu is a unique thing to do in Kenya that offers a different perspective on wildlife viewing. This mode of transport allows for a slower, quieter approach to observing animals in their natural habitat. The safari typically includes guided treks through the arid landscapes of northern Kenya, providing opportunities to learn about the Samburu people's culture and traditions. The experience combines adventure with cultural immersion.

Best Time: June - October

Staying at a safari lodge in Kenya provides an immersive and luxurious experience amidst the stunning landscapes of Africa. These lodges, often located within or near national parks and reserves, offer comfortable accommodations with breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. Guests can enjoy guided safaris, exquisite dining, and personalized service while observing wildlife from the comfort of their lodge. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience the thrill of a safari in style and comfort.

Visiting Fort Jesus in Mombasa is a top thing to do in Kenya for history enthusiasts. This historic fort, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort offers a glimpse into the colonial history of the region, with well-preserved architecture and informative exhibits. Visitors can explore the fort's battlements, museum, and learn about the various powers that contested for control over Mombasa.

Known For : Gorges Valley

Exploring Hell’s Gate National Park is a thrilling thing to do in Kenya for outdoor adventurers. The park is known for its dramatic landscapes, including towering cliffs, gorges, and geothermal activity. Visitors can hike, bike, and rock climb through the park, encountering wildlife like zebras, gazelles, and baboons. The park also inspired the scenery in Disney's "The Lion King," adding to its allure.

Best Time: June - September

1 Hells Gate Attractions

White-water rafting on the Tana River is an adrenaline-pumping thing to do in Kenya for adventure seekers. The river provides a range of rapids, from gentle to challenging, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters. Along the journey, rafters can enjoy the lush scenery and spot wildlife along the riverbanks. The thrill of navigating the rapids amidst Kenya's stunning landscapes makes this an unforgettable experience.

A rhino tracking safari in Ol Pejeta Conservancy is an exciting thing to do in Kenya for conservation-minded travelers. Ol Pejeta is home to the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa and also houses the last two northern white rhinos. Guided tracking safaris provide a close-up experience with these majestic animals and educate visitors about ongoing conservation efforts. The conservancy also offers sightings of other wildlife, including chimpanzees and the Big Five.

Best Time: June - October

Visiting the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi is a top thing to do in Kenya for wildlife enthusiasts. The center is dedicated to the conservation of the endangered Rothschild giraffe and offers visitors the chance to interact with these majestic creatures. Guests can feed the giraffes from a raised platform, learn about their conservation efforts, and even kiss a giraffe. The center also features a nature trail through the surrounding forest.

Taking a hot air balloon ride over the Maasai Mara is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Kenya. This unique experience offers a bird’s-eye view of the vast savannah, teeming with wildlife. As the balloon drifts silently above the landscape, passengers can witness the beauty of the Mara River, the Great Migration, and the diverse animal life below. The adventure typically concludes with a champagne breakfast in the bush, adding to its magic.

Scuba diving in Kenya is a thrilling experience that offers a glimpse into the vibrant marine life of the Indian Ocean. The coastal regions, particularly around Malindi and Watamu, are renowned for their stunning coral reefs, teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and occasional dolphins. Dive sites like the Malindi Marine National Park provide crystal-clear waters and diverse underwater ecosystems, making it a paradise for both novice and experienced divers.

Experiencing the Karen Blixen Museum is a significant thing to do in Kenya for literature and history enthusiasts. This museum is the former home of Karen Blixen, the renowned author of "Out of Africa." Visitors can tour the preserved house and grounds, learning about Blixen's life and work. The museum provides a charming glimpse into Kenya’s colonial past and the writer’s legacy.

Visiting a Maasai village is a fascinating thing to do in Kenya to immerse in local culture. The Maasai people are known for their distinctive customs, dress, and traditional way of life. Tourists can learn about Maasai traditions, watch their famous jumping dance, and even purchase handmade jewelry and crafts. This cultural interaction provides valuable insight into one of Kenya’s most iconic communities.

Known For : Malindi Marine National Park Watamu Beach

Snorkeling and diving in Malindi and Watamu are top things to do in Kenya for underwater enthusiasts. These coastal towns boast rich marine life, vibrant coral reefs, and clear waters. The Malindi Marine National Park and Watamu Marine National Park are protected areas teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and even occasional dolphins. These locations offer an extraordinary experience for anyone interested in exploring Kenya's marine biodiversity.

Best Time: January - March, July - October

2 Malindi Attractions

Relaxing at Diani Beach is one of the essential things to do in Kenya for beach lovers. This pristine white-sand beach, located south of Mombasa, offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The area is also known for its vibrant nightlife and luxurious resorts. Visitors can enjoy a range of water sports or simply bask in the tropical sun.

Best Time: December - March, June - September

Visiting Lamu Island is a must among the things to do in Kenya for those interested in culture and history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns in Kenya, featuring traditional Swahili architecture and narrow, winding streets. Lamu offers a glimpse into a bygone era with its historic mosques, museums, and the annual Lamu Cultural Festival. The island’s tranquil beaches and dhow boat excursions provide a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.

Best Time: July - September, January - February

Known For : Galana River Lugard Falls Yatta Plateau

Exploring the vast Tsavo National Parks, both East and West, is a top thing to do in Kenya for nature enthusiasts. These parks are known for their dramatic landscapes, including rolling plains, volcanic hills, and dense bush. Tsavo East is famous for its red elephants, while Tsavo West offers beautiful scenery and the stunning Mzima Springs. Both parks are teeming with wildlife, making them ideal for extensive safari adventures.

Best Time: June - October

3 Tsavo East Attractions

Known For : Lake Ellis

Hiking Mount Kenya, Africa's second-highest peak, is a thrilling adventure and one of the top things to do in Kenya. The mountain offers several trekking routes, each providing different levels of challenge and stunning scenery. Climbers can traverse through varied ecosystems, from bamboo forests to alpine moorlands. The reward of reaching the summit, with its breathtaking views, is an unforgettable experience for avid hikers.

Best Time: June - September

1 Mount Kenya Attractions

Bird watching is one of the most popular things to do in Kenya for bird enthusiasts. Kenya, with its diverse habitats ranging from savannahs and forests to wetlands and mountains, is a premier destination for birdwatching. The country is home to over 1,100 bird species, making it a haven for ornithologists and birdwatching enthusiasts alike.

Best Time: June - October

Another must-see on the list of things to do in Kenya is visiting Amboseli National Park. Located at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, this park offers stunning views of Africa's tallest mountain. It is renowned for its large elephant herds, which can be seen up close against the backdrop of the snow-capped peaks. Bird watchers will also delight in the over 400 bird species that inhabit the park.

Best Time: June - October

Relishing a Kenyan dish is an essential part of experiencing the country's rich culinary heritage. Kenya's cuisine is a flavorful blend of local ingredients and diverse cultural influences, with dishes like nyama choma (grilled meat), ugali (maize porridge), and sukuma wiki (collard greens) being staples. Don't miss trying a bowl of hearty Kenyan stew, often made with goat or beef, and flavored with a mix of spices and herbs. For a sweet treat, indulge in mandazi, a deliciously fluffy East African doughnut.

Exploring the beaches of Kenya is one of the most relaxing and scenic things to do in Kenya. The country's coastline is dotted with pristine beaches like Diani, Malindi, and Watamu, each offering crystal-clear waters, white sands, and vibrant marine life. Visitors can indulge in various activities such as snorkeling, diving, and deep-sea fishing, or simply unwind under the tropical sun. The coastal towns also provide a rich blend of Swahili culture, historical sites, and delicious seafood cuisine, making a beach holiday in Kenya a truly enriching experience.

Shopping in Kenya is a vibrant and immersive experience, offering a wide array of local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Markets such as Nairobi’s Maasai Market and the Swahili-inspired shops in Lamu feature handcrafted jewelry, intricate beadwork, and colorful kitenge fabrics. Visitors can also explore bustling bazaars for unique items like carved wooden masks and traditional artifacts. Whether you’re seeking authentic Kenyan souvenirs or high-quality local goods, shopping in Kenya provides a rich cultural encounter and a chance to bring home a piece of its diverse heritage.