The Republic of Kenya, located in East Africa, borders the Indian Ocean and has nearly 50 million people. It is a vastly unique country, offering visitors a range of options, including bustling cities, beautiful beaches, wild safaris, and much more.
There is a lot of discovering when you visit Kenya. Aside from being the number one destination for safaris, Kenya is also home to the world's second-largest freshwater lake, Lake Victoria. While tourism is arguably the country's most significant industry, the coffee industry in Kenya is actually just as important. If you are worried about a language barrier in Kenya, remember that the two official languages of the country are English and Swahili.
Kenya offers visitors a wide range of accommodation options. From five-star luxury suites to pitching your own tent in the wilderness or relaxing in a private beachside villa, the possibilities are endless. If you're feeling adventurous, sleep under a canvas tent in the Kenyan bush, by an open fire and surrounded by the spectacular night noises of wild animals for a once in a lifetime experience. For others, the experience of enjoying unparalleled luxury, exceptional cuisine, and world-class service while surrounded by the wonders of the wild makes Kenya the ultimate destination.
Long after you have left Kenya, some things will stay with you forever. While in Kenya, visit pristine beaches, eat fresh seafood, and sail the Kenyan coast. You can also witness the spectacular wildebeest migration where two million wildebeests migrate in search of water and greener pastures. Go on a safari and see Kenya's Big Five, lion, buffalo, elephant, leopard, and rhino, in different national parks across the country. Regardless of what you choose to see, Kenya is most certainly a bucket list destination!
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Kenya is located in East Africa and is home to 43.5 million people. Nairobi, the capital city, is also the largest city in the country. Kenya is named after Mt. Kenya, the tallest mountain in the country and second tallest in Africa. The flag of Kenya is composed of three colors, black, red with white edges, and green. In the middle of the horizontal flag is a red, white, and black Maasai shield. The Maasai shield is a traditional symbol in Kenya that is used to symbolize the defense of the country.
Climate
The coast is tropical, while temperatures are temperate in the west and southwest, and the north and eastern regions are hot and dry. There is more rain in the coastal and southwestern areas. You might consider visiting July through September, which is Kenya's dry season. These are also the best times to see wildlife, including the Great Wildebeest Migration.
Transportation by public and privately owned buses is popular -- and cheap -- in Kenya. There is also taxi service in all the main cities, rental cars. There is also a rail system that runs from Mombasa to the capital, Nairobi.
If you are visiting a number of parks and reserves in Kenya, the option is to either drive or fly between them. Elsewhere, all the towns in Kenya are linked by a steady stream of buses and matatus or minibusses. In the cities, there is plenty of public transport in the way of buses, matatus, taxis, and, in some places, bicycle or tuk-tuk taxis. Getting around by plane is the easiest and most comfortable way to travel the country, while driving is not recommended due to the poor road conditions.
The African savanna is an environment, unlike any other on Earth. The region is characterized by its rolling expanses of grasslands, patches of dense brush, and the few, lonesome trees dotting the horizon. The savanna encompasses almost 50 percent or about 5 million square miles of land in Africa. The plants in this area are all uniquely adapted to their often-inhospitable conditions and can thrive during long periods of drought. Because the savanna is so rich in plants and nutrients, many large herds live in the tropical grasslands, including zebras, elephants, giraffes, and gazelles.
Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in both Tanzania and Africa, is just as impressive as you would imagine. Also known for being the fourth-highest summit in the world, Kilimanjaro is considered the tallest freestanding mountain in the world, rising 15,100 ft. from base to summit. The mountain is characterized by picture-perfect forest trails that lead into rocky and moon-like landscapes before giving way to snowy glacial views. There are several trails for hikers attempting this climb, and the Machame, Lemosho, and Shira routes are the most popular and ranging from six to eight days.
In the Beginning
Farmers and herders mostly populated the east African country of Kenya before Arab settlers arrived in the area. Most of these farmers and herders were migrants from west and northeast Africa.
Arab traders
Arab traders who settled on the coast of East Africa played a significant role in shaping the Kenya of today. They traded slaves, spices, and ivory and developed small communities around this economy, which grew into large cities. These cities thrived on the trade and culture of both the settlers and original inhabitants. Swahili, the predominant language of Kenya, stems from Bantu culture, but Arabs also influenced the language.
Culture
The citizenship of Kenya is a diverse one comprising primarily 13 ethnic groups and 27 smaller ones, each with a unique language, dress, and food. Where they are similar is that family and community are central to them all.
The country uses the Kenyan Shilling as currency. One Shilling is equal to 0.0097 United States dollars. United States dollars are accepted, but you should be prepared to pay cash for certain small-ticket items and services such as meals and souvenirs. When eating in restaurants, it's customary to tip wait staff at least 10 percent.
Swahili and English are spoken in Kenya. English is common in metropolitan areas, but don't expect to hear it spoken in rural regions of Kenya.
It is most common to greet Kenyans with handshakes and "Jambo," or "How are you?"
Most Kenyans practice Christianity. Islam is the second most common religion. Some Kenyans also practice Buddhism and Hinduism.
The Samburu people are some of the friendliest in Kenya. Originally a nomadic tribe, the Samburu today are still semi-nomadic and have not strayed far from the traditions and customs of the past. Dancing is a significant part of Samburu culture. They love to sing and dance but traditionally use no instruments. They also have dances for various occasions of life. The men dance jumping and high jumping from a standing position. Most dances involve the men and the women dancing in their separate circles. However, they come together for occasions such as wedding ceremonies.
Kenya is home to many indigenous tribes, including the Maasai tribe. The Maasai are well known for their unique culture and tribal dress. It is widely believed the Massai people originated in the Nile valley in the 15th century before migrating to their current home in Kenya. This semi-nomadic tribe is known for being great hunters, along with wearing vibrant clothes and high spirited dancing. Fun fact, in the Maasai tribe, a man that can jump higher than his peers is considered more masculine and, therefore, more attractive to young women!
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The Experience
Kenya has long been hailed as being the best safari destination in the world. There are few places on Earth where you can witness the Big Five, lions, buffalos, elephants, leopards, and rhinos, in the wilderness. While the lion remains Kenya’s most sought after safari attraction, there are plenty of other animals to see. Zebras, giraffes, antelope, and ostriches are just a few of the other animals you can see during your next trip to Kenya.
With an abundance of national parks, including the Chyulu Hills National Park and the Maasai Mara National Park, you will be treated to an incredibly beautiful experience in the savannah grasslands. Witness majestic animals, unique plants, and the most picturesque views while on your safari adventure.
There are few places in the world where you can witness 1.5million flamingos in their natural habitat. Lake Nakuru in Kenya is a world-famous location for viewing one of the greatest bird spectacles on Earth. The myriad of fuchsia pink flamingos feed on the abundant algae in the lake, which thrives in the warm waters. Flamingos boom typically occurs in the rainy season, between November and May, which makes this the best time to see these spectacular birds.
Surrounded by the breathtaking Indian Ocean, soft white sands, lush greenery, and the striking shade of emerald blue that emerges from its clear warm waters, Diani is Kenya's most relaxing retreat. It is the perfect place to get away from the stress of everyday life or to relax before and after an exciting safari. From diving with dolphins and sea turtles, spotting whale sharks, kitesurfing, lively nightlife, and alfresco dining, Diani offers a range of activities for all!
Here is a list of Things To Do and See while vacationing in Kenya!
- Hot Air Balloon Ride at Masai Mara
- Lake Naivasha
- Nairobi National Park
- Hike or Take a Safari to Mt. Kenya
- Visit David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
- Snorkel or jet ski at Diani Beach
- Visit Fort Jesus Museum
- Visit Lamu Old Town, the Islamic Swahili Settlement
Family Travel Highlights
- Masai Mara Game Park
- Giraffe Centre
- Nairobi Railway Museum
- Elephant Orphanage
Photography Hot Spots
Kenya can be a dream come true for any photographer, professional, or amateur. Capture the impressive sunrise as it rises over the grasslands or snap a picture of a herd of elephants in their natural habitat. There is so much to take in when you visit Kenya, and the natural beauty of the country is sure to leave you in awe. Make sure you snap some amazing shots at these different locations on your vacation to Kenya!
- Toi Market
- Nairobi Railway Museum
- Kisumu Impala Sanctuary
- Lamu Island
- Mt. Kenya
Are you ready to visit these locations in person? Let me help you plan your unforgettable trip to Kenya. Click on the link below when you are ready to start planning.
Kenya is known for its wildlife safaris, beautiful landscapes, and of course, delicious food. The food in Kenya is a diverse mix of ethnicity and tradition. Undeniably, the most common Kenyan food staple is ugali. Ugali is made from cornmeal that has been added to boiling water and heated until it turns into a dense cornmeal paste. For many Kenyans, ugali, along with a small number of cooked vegetables or saucy stew, is a normal meal. One of the most popular vegetable Kenyan dishes is sukuma wiki. The nutritious green leafy vegetable is often cooked in oil with a few diced tomatoes, onions, and flavored with a sprinkle of mchuzi mix or stock flavoring.
Foods To Try
- Ugali
- Githieri
- Matumbo
- Mandazi
- Samosas
*Fine dining can be found in Nairobi's international hotels.
Drinks To Try
- Kenya Cane
- Kenya Gold
- Kenyan Tea
- Dawa
- Afia Juice