There’s more to Kenya than thrilling safaris, fast runners, wildlife, and white sandy beaches. Aside from what some people hear and read on the news, this East African country is awash with ancient and contemporary attractions, welcoming people, fun events, and impeccable landscapes. From the coast to the desert lands of northern Kenya, you’re in for a wide variety of things to see, feel, and touch. Some must-visit tourist destinations in the region include Maasai Mara National Reserve, Lamu Island, Nairobi National Park, Mt. Kenya, Fort Jesus, and Diani Beach. These sites are nestled in different parts of the country and are great places to indulge in fun leisure activities such as swimming, rock climbing, day trips, and food tours. Read on below to find out about the best places to visit in Kenya.
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1. Nyeri
Nyeri is home to Africa’s second-largest mountain, Mt. Kenya. Other than that, it has numerous attractions such as Aberdare National Park, Chaka Ranch, Baden-Powell Museum, and Giraffe Ark, where you’re free to visit and indulge in fun recreational activities. Scouts and guides meet annually in this town in remembrance of Baden Powel, the scout movement founder. Being an administrative and economic hub, it’s also blessed to have state-of-the-art accommodation facilities that are out to cater to tourists’ needs. One famous boarding facility in the area is Treetops Lodge where the reigning Queen of the United Kingdom, Queen Elizabeth II, became queen after her father’s death.
2. Mombasa
This seaport city of Kenya is famous for its mix of Swahili and Indian cultures. While taking a stroll around the city, you can’t help but notice the fusion of both cultures in the local food, dressing, and architecture. Apart from that, tourists prefer this destination because of its tropical climate, art and craft, and of course, the white sandy beaches. Mombasa’s nightlife is also worth exploring. Places such as Bamburi, Mtwapa, and Nyali have bars and nightclubs frequented by revelers looking to party and make merry all night long. Sample local cuisines such as mahamri (Swahili buns), chapati, biryani, and nyama choma (roast meat) that are made from locally sourced ingredients, thus leaving you wanting more.
Visited this place?
Book Tours : Full-Day Tour of Mombasa
3. Eldoret
Approximately 310 kilometers (192 miles) from Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, is Eldoret, the fifth largest town in the country. Over the years, this township has grown to become a popular travel destination. Tourists visit the town to engage in fun leisure activities such as hiking, shopping, and food tours. Some amazing places of interest worth visiting in the region include Eldoret Nature and Culture Center, Rocksprings Gardens, and Shree Swaminarayan Temple.
4. Narok
Nestled along the Great Rift Valley, Narok prides itself on being home to the famous Maasai Mara. Maasai Mara is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Kenya. Additionally, it’s also a game reserve where wildebeest migration takes place. The dominant ethnic community in this town is the Maasai, who are known for making creative handcrafts such as bangles, necklaces, and key holders. Most tourists also frequent curio shops in the area to buy ornaments and familiarize themselves with the local way of life.
Kenya Tour Guide
Samuel Njoroge
My name is Samuel Njoroge, a certified tour guide with the tourism regulatory authority in Kenya. I offer personalized and private tours in Nairobi. Whether you are looking for a half-day tour, full-day tour outside the city or multi-day trips in Kenya, I will get you covered. I'm a native Kenyan passionate about giving guests the best and most professional tour experience of my city, Nairobi.... Read more
5. Kitale
Established in 1908, Kitale was formerly a slave route. Over time, the town has expanded, accommodating people from different backgrounds. It’s for this reason that you find tourists in the region engaging in fun recreational activities and mingling with the natives. Being an agricultural town, you cannot walk for long without noticing large farms with mostly maize or wheat plantations. Before leaving Kitale, visit attraction sites such as Saiwa Swamp National Park, Kitale Museum, and Kitale Nature Conservancy to know the location better.
6. Nairobi
Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya and the largest town. Also known as the city in the sun, it’s a place you don’t want to leave without visiting. Whenever you’re in Nairobi, you’ll always have many places of interest to explore. Some of the most preferred attractions in the city include the Nairobi National Park, Kenyatta International Conference Center (KICC), David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, and Nairobi Railway Museum. At the top of Kenyatta International Conference Center (KICC), you experience stunning panoramic views of Nairobi and its environs. Furthermore, visit Two Rivers Mall, the biggest mall in Kenya and East Africa, to shop in its over 200 stores, including Woolworths, Bata, and Bossini.
Tip from tour guide
I love Nairobi, especially as a tour guide, because it's the only capital city in the whole world that has a wildlife park (Nairobi National Park), which you can visit to see almost all the Big 5, apart from elephants. The "City Under the Sun" is also a central hub for travelers, both in East Africa and Central Africa.Visited this place?
Book Tours : Nairobi: Private 4-Hour City Tour
7. Tsavo
Take a trip to Tsavo and come face to face with unique wildlife. On top of that, Tsavo National Park is also home to red elephants, making it a popular tourist site. Join the guided tours around Tsavo to see wild animals and birds such as antelopes, ostriches, elephants, and lions, and to learn about the local history. Remember to carry your camera as sights and sounds in this region are second to none. Notable attractions in Tsavo include Mzima Springs, Roaring Rocks, Crocodile Point, and Mudanda Rock.
8. Kisumu
Founded by British explorers around the late 1800s, Kisumu acted as a railway station and port. This lakeside city is now not only an economic and administrative town but also a tourist destination. Moreover, it’s a region that’s famous for its freshwater fish in Kenya. To see wild animals like antelopes, zebras, and baboons in this city, visit sites such as Ruma National Park and Kisumu Impala Sanctuary. If you’re looking to experience stunning landscape and lake views, tour places of interest such as Dunga Beach and Dunga Hill Camp.
9. Malindi
Another coastal town on the Kenyan coast is Malindi, a small township frequented by visitors all year round. The township prides itself on having magnificent attraction sites such as Marafa-Hells Kitchen, Falconry of Kenya, Vasco da Gama Pillar, and Mamasavana. In these establishments, engage in fun outdoor activities like hiking, nature walks, and swimming. Also, the stunning beaches in the area are nice spots to lay low and enjoy the tropical weather and cool breeze. Experience the vibrant nightlife in the numerous entertainment joints that have a good selection of music, food, and drinks.
10. Thika
Thika is an industrial town lying in the southern part of central Kenya. Tourists visit the region to discover its sightseeing areas that include Fourteen Falls, Chania Falls, Flame Tree Bike Park, and Karunguru Coffee Estate. With the town’s ever-growing population, you can be sure of exciting things to do, see, and touch. One famous fruit grown on a large-scale in the township is pineapples. Take advantage of your tour to Thika and sample the fruit that’s proudly produced by hardworking Kenyans.
Magical Kenya
There’s a good reason why millions of tourists visit Kenya. You shouldn’t be left behind, too. Pack your bags and travel to this magical destination with a variety of impeccable attractions to experience its charm. On arrival, tour the places above and make every second count.
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