Are you planning on visiting Kenya? I guess you have so many questions on some of the things you can do to make your trip memorable. In this article I will be highlighting some of the activities that will make your trip enjoyable and rememberable.
There are so many things you would engage into; but there are only a couple of things that make us remember the times we had at a given place. And I would like to make your next visit to this amazing country something to remember for the rest of your life.
I will be going through some adventure type activities, social interaction activities, and finally cultural and relaxation destinations to make your visit as best as it should be.
So, let’s dive in;
Safari in the Masai Mara
If you would like a one stop shop for your game viewing experiences and amazing accommodation, Masai Mara will do just that for you. This place packs some of the most abundant wildlife in Africa and it’s a great place immerse yourself with real wildlife, Kenya has to offer.
Masai Mara has a diverse range of animals including the African big five (lions, leopards, cheetah, elephants, buffalo, hippos, and giraffes. There are also wonderful accommodation options within the park. For example, the Governor’s camp is a great place that will give you that traditional and classic safari experience.
Watching the Great migration
I would argue this natural phenomenon puts Kenya on the map of the best African destinations to visit. For this reason, your trip would be incomplete with experiencing this annual movement of the wildebeests.
By engaging in this activity, you will experience the intense and chaotic movement of these animals and predators after them. The great migration happens between July and October. The journey starts from the Serengeti in Tanzania towards Masai Mara plains.
Seeing flamingos at lake Nakuru
If you are a bird watcher, Lake Nakuru is a must during your visit to Kenya. The sheer number of these birds makes the view spectacular and amazing to watch. While there you might also have a chance to see rhinos and leopards.
Rhino tracking
A popular destination to experience these massive wild animals is the Lewa conservancy. This place as almost 10% of the Kenya’s black rhino population. So, you are guaranteed to spot one take pictures and enjoy your time.
Another option to consider is the Sera conservancy located at northern Kenya.
Camping under the stars
If you would like to experience one of the purest safari experiences, you should definitely try camping and starting a bush fire to keep you warm throughout the night.
One of the best and safe places is El Karama in Laikipia which offer the chance for families to safely sleep out under the stars in tents strung between trees.
Sunrise safari hot air balloon
Without a doubt this is one of those once in a life experiences you have an opportunity to experience while on a safari at Masai Mara. You will experience that adrenaline rush that will make this moment and the sheer fact of floating over the Masai Mara I think is a great experience.
Experience a walking safari
This is a great chance to get do a bit of exercise after a long drive and feeling tired of being seated the whole time. Just make sure it’s allowed since most of the parks do not recommend doing this as it can be dangerous. However, within some private conservancies, you can request to engage in this.
By doing this you will be able to see the small things you are likely to miss out on while in a vehicle. You will also have a great interaction with the culture and locals as they show you around the place.
Try a horseback safari
This is the best way to experience a gentle and relaxing wildlife view. For example, most animals such as zebras and giraffes don’t see horses as a threat; so, you can a close up look without scaring them away. You just to make sure you have an arrangement to engage this activity with your tour operator to make all the necessary plans.
Experience breakfast with a giraffe
The experience of eating your pancakes while feeding a giraffe its breakfast in completely unique and one that amazes adults and children. The famous place to engage in this activity is at the Giraffe Manor Nairobi. I would recommend that you make your booking well in advance.
Experience a camel safari
Both Laikipia and Lew are great places to try camel safari. The feeling of riding a camel as you watch these wild animals go about their lives is something that is fulfilling.
Meet the Masai tribes
Originally from South Sudan, the Masai people migrated along the Nile valley into Kenya and Tanzania in the 15th century. They are most semi-nomadic, and they live in small settlements. I can guarantee you will have every chance to come across the Masai people while on your tour.
They are also a source of great knowledge on the area and can give you guideline and help you get the most out of your adventure. Also, you get a chance to learn the Masai culture by interacting with the people and visiting their villages to learn more about their ways of life.
Seeing massive herds of elephants
A visit to Amboseli national reserve will be the best for this activity. You will have a chance to view large herds of elephants close enough and you appreciate their family dynamics; by watching them interact with one another.
Relaxation on Diani beach
Diani beach is located an hour south of Mombasa and it’s easily accessible from Nairobi. It’s calm turquoise seas, white sand beaches and lush green coastline make for the perfect relaxing beach get away.
This is a great place to lay in, chill, and unwind after your safari.
Visit Fort Jesus, Mombasa
Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century Fort Jesus in Mombasa is a must visit for anyone passing through. It’s a great experience break up the day as well as learn about Kenya’s rich history.
Other activities worth looking for
- Bush breakfasts and sundowner drinks
- Taking part in the Lewa marathon
- Try kite surfing
- Scuba dive/snorkel in the Indian ocean
- Wander the streets of Lamu
- Sunset dhows
This is it from me, I hope you now have some ideas of the activities you can engage into while on your safari or just normal visit to Kenya. This list is by no means complete; there are many more things you can do, but these are some I find kind of fulfilling and enjoyable at the same time.
Let me know in the comments below what you are planning on doing for your next tour to Kenya.