Why you should go to Kenya

There’s something about Kenya that gets under the skin… Perhaps it’s the vastness of the blue sky, the epic scale of the savannahs, the charm of the local people, the pure whiteness of the beaches or the majestic wildlife that calls this nation ‘home’ that does it? Whatever it is, it’s impossible to put your finger on it and the only way to get to know this feeling is to go there. We’ve spoken with our local experts and have gathered together the top reasons for why you should travel to Kenya.

Kenya’s national parks and reserves

When you think of Kenya, the most likely scene to spring to mind is huge swathes of grassland punctuated by the silhouettes of acacia trees and wandered by elephants, antelope, giraffes and prowling big cats.

The most famous reserve where these scenes can be found is the Masai Mara - a favourite destination of wildlife photographers and safari fanatics. Take a hot air balloon ride at dawn to get a true sense of the scale of the landscape.

The Masai Mara is also home to the world famous spectacle of the Great Migration, where thousands of wildebeest and grazing animals cross the Mara River - at great peril - in order to reach pastures new.  

Lesser-known, but equally wonderful areas include Lake Nakuru National Park - once famous for its population of flamingos, but now better known for the presence of both black and white rhino - and Tsavo West National Park, where you can get some great views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Kenya’s beautiful beaches

Kenya’s beaches are truly beautiful and a great way to round off a safari holiday. Swap the jeep rides across the savannah for swathes of coastline scattered with white, lightly gilded beaches and sparkling turquoise waters.

The stretch of coastline known as Diani Beach is one of Kenya’s most popular, situated conveniently just 30 kilometres south of Mombasa, and it is home to some beautiful resorts and hotels. Snorkelling opportunities abound, children can frolic happily in the shallows and the pearly-white sands cry out to sunbathers.

In the Indian Ocean, just off the northern coast of Kenya, the Lamu Archipelago is another fantastic spot for a bit of a post- or pre-safari beach break. The marine wildlife is a huge draw, with dolphins playing off the coast from September to May, and whales easily spotted from July to December. Anyone keen on deep sea fishing should set aside some time for seeking barracuda and swordfish.

The rest of the time, the islands provide the perfect habitat for relaxation, with watersports such as sailing or kite-surfing at the ready if you feel the need to be more active...

The local Kenyan culture

Wherever you go you will be charmed by the local Kenyans. Safari guides and trackers will wow you with their knowledge of the bush, garnered from years of co-existing with some of the world’s most spectacular wildlife.

Spend some time exploring a local cattle ranch or tea plantation, or even a flower farm, and meet the herders, pickers and workers for a unique insight into some of Kenya’s most successful industries. Local markets and simply wandering through traditional villages will also give you a taste of how life works in Kenya.

Make it happen

Our local experts are perfectly positioned to plan you any kind of holiday in Kenya, whether that’s your classic safari and beach holiday or a more philanthropic experience, mingling and working with local communities. Simply let them know what you are after when you send your enquiry and they can make it happen. To speak to someone in the TravelLocal office, please call +44 (0) 117 325 7898.