Kenya is a country located in Eastern Africa. A fascinating blend of cultures, traditions, and languages makes it one of the most diverse countries on the African continent.
The official language spoken in Kenya is English however there are also over 70 different indigenous languages that are commonly used throughout the country.
Swahili is also widely spoken as it acts as a nationally unifying language between all Kenyan ethnic groups.
Brief Geo History
Kenya has a population of approximately 47.6 million people and covers an area of 582,646 square kilometers making it the 48th largest country by landmass.
And the capital city is Nairobi which also happens to be the largest city in Kenya with a population of over 3 million people.
The Kenyan economy is quite diversified however agriculture remains the mainstay of the economy contributing 26% to GDP and employing 65% of the workforce.
Tourism is another significant earner for Kenya particularly due to its world-famous wildlife reserves such as Amboseli National Park which is home to Africa’s tallest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, as well as large populations of elephants and other big game animals.
Here are the 10 best places that you must visit while being in Kenya:
1). Amboseli National Park
As mentioned earlier, Amboseli National Park is one of Kenya’s most popular tourist destinations owing largely to its close proximity to Mount Kilimanjaro which provides dramatic backdrop views during safari drives or walks through this park teeming with African wildlife including lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras etcetera.
2). Maasai Mara Game Reserve
Another renowned Kenyan national park famed for its abundance of animal life especially big cats like lions and leopards preying on vast herds off plains game eking out a living on this unforgiving landscape made famous by Hollywood movies such as Out Of Africa starring Meryl Streep and Robert Redford among others.
3). The Kenyan Coast
The Indian Ocean coastline of Kenya stretches for over 500 kilometers and is dotted with numerous beach resorts offering all manner of water-based activities as well as opportunities to go deep sea fishing, snorkeling, or scuba diving among coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life.
4). Mount Kenya National Park
This park located in central Kenya protects the namesake mountain which at 5,199 meters is the second highest peak on the African continent after Mount Kilimanjaro.
Hiking and climbing are popular activities here although only experienced mountaineers should attempt to scale the summit due to its challenging terrain.
5). Lake Nakuru National Park
This small national park located not too far from Nairobi is one of Kenya’s most popular tourist destinations owing largely to the large flocks of greater and lesser flamingos that often turn its shores pink while feeding on algae found in these alkaline waters.
Other wildlife commonly seen here includes rhinos, lions, leopards etcetera.
6). Samburu Game Reserve
Located in northern Kenya near the Ethiopian border, this reserve gets relatively fewer visitors compared to other more famous parks.
Either way, it still offers excellent game viewing opportunities especially when it comes to sightings of rarer species like Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk antelope among others which can be difficult to find elsewhere.
It also has scenic landscapes including riverine forests along the Ewaso Ng’iro River.
7). Meru National Park
Located east of Mt. Kenya, this little-known park nevertheless provides good game viewing experiences similar to what you would find in Maasai Mara or Serengeti albeit on a smaller scale.
Popular animals spotted here include elephants, buffalos, rhinos, and hippopotamus among many others roaming around woodlands and savannah plains within park boundaries.
8). Best Places to Visit in Kenya: Lamu Island
This idyllic island situated just offshore from the mainland coast oozes old-world charm being the first settlement established by Swahili people who have made their home here since the 14th century according to remains ruins of ancient buildings dotting narrow streets shaded by palm trees.
9). Hell’s Gate National Park
Named after geothermal features such as hot springs and fumaroles found inside its borders better known as Masai Mara Game Reserve making an ideal side trip for those staying there going on safari drives walks through a dramatic landscape featuring red volcanic rock outcrops shrubbery.
10). Nairobi City
Finally, no visit would be complete without spending some time exploring the bustling capital city where you can enjoy an array of modern amenities and nightlife venues while getting a taste true East African metropolis.
Inside Nairobi, be sure to check out the Giraffe Centre, which is another one of the best places to visit in Kenya.
It is located in the Langata suburb of Nairobi and was established in 1979 as a haven for endangered Rothschild giraffes. The center allows visitors to feed and interact with these gentle giants making it a popular tourist attraction.
Best Places to Visit in Kenya: Final Thoughts
Kenya is a country with much to offer tourists in terms of its natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and interesting culture.
These are just 10 of the best places that you should consider visiting while in Kenya but there are many other wonderful destinations worth exploring in this amazing country.
If you are planning on visiting, be sure to do your research beforehand so that you can make the most of your time here and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
While at it, be sure to check out our Kenya destination perks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kenya safe for tourists?
Yes, Kenya is considered safe for tourists. However, as with any country, there are always areas that are safer than others and it is always advisable to exercise caution when traveling to new places. The vast majority of crime in Kenya is non-violent however there have been instances of carjackings and robberies so it is always best to take precautions such as not driving at night, keeping valuables out of sight, and being aware of your surroundings.
Where is the most beautiful place in Kenya?
There are many beautiful places in Kenya but some of the most popular tourist destinations include the beaches on the coast, national parks such as Amboseli and Tsavo East where you can see wildlife up close, and scenic areas like Lake Nakuru with its flamingos.
Do you need a visa to visit Kenya?
Yes, most foreigners need a visa to enter Kenya. The type of visa required will depend on the purpose and length of stay in Kenya.
What is the best time of year to visit Kenya?
The best time to visit Kenya depends on what you want to see and do while you are there. For game viewing, the dry season from January to March or June to October is typically considered the best time as animals congregate around water sources and are easier to spot. However, this is also the busiest tourist season so if you prefer fewer crowds then consider visiting during the wetter months when prices may be lower but conditions are less ideal for wildlife watching.
What vaccinations are required for Kenya?
There are no mandatory vaccinations required for entry into Kenya but it is recommended that you are up to date on your routine vaccines such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, and varicella (chickenpox) vaccine. You may also consider getting vaccinated for hepatitis A and typhoid if you plan on eating or drinking outside of major hotels and restaurants.
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