Kenya: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Kenya is known for its classic safari adventures. It's seen as the place where safaris started. But there's more to see than just wildlife. You can climb Mount Kenya or snorkel at Diani Beach. These activities show you the beauty of Kenya beyond the Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Park.

So, what are the best things to do in Kenya? Let's explore the top picks that will make your trip unforgettable.

Key Takeaways

• Kenya is famous for its safaris, but it has many other activities to offer.
• Activities range from climbing Mount Kenya to exploring Lamu Island's culture and traditions.
• Kenya has something for everyone, from thrilling adventures to peaceful natural spots and cultural experiences.
• The coast of Kenya is perfect for water sports and relaxing on beautiful beaches.
• There are many attractions and activities in Kenya that go beyond the usual safari.

Conquer Mount Kenya for Thrilling Trekking Adventures

Mount Kenya stands tall at over 3,800 metres, making it the highest mountain in Kenya and the second highest in Africa. It has three main peaks: Batian, Nelion, and Point Lenana. Trekking here offers stunning views of glaciers, lakes, springs, and forests.

Climbing Routes and Accommodation Options on Mount Kenya

Most climbers use three main routes: Naro Moru, Sirimon, and Chogoria. These routes take about five days to complete. Climbing to Point Lenana takes 4-6 days, while Batian or Nelion can take up to 8 days.

The cost to hike Mount Kenya ranges from $800 to $1500 per person. This depends on the operator, group size, route, and other costs.

For those seeking adventure, there are campsites and lodges around the mountain. These places offer activities like nature walks, horse riding, and fly fishing in Kenya.

Fly Fishing for Rainbow Trout in Mountain Lakes and Streams

Mount Kenya has streams and lakes full of rainbow trout. It's a top spot for fly fishing in Kenya. Anglers can catch these big fish in beautiful Kenyan wildlife and landscapes.

"Trekking through the breathtaking mountain scenery of glaciers, lakes, mineral springs, and alpine forests is one of the best things to do in Kenya if you're an active traveller."

Cycle Through Hell's Gate National Park's Volcanic Landscapes

In the heart of Kenya's Rift Valley, Hell's Gate National Park offers a unique adventure. It's one of Africa's few places where you can walk or bike through its beauty. This makes it a top spot for cycling in Kenya.

The park is filled with two old volcanoes that have shaped a stunning landscape. Imagine biking through high cliffs, along winding paths, and seeing zebras, giraffes, and other Kenyan national park animals. It's a thrilling way to experience outdoor activities in Kenya.

The cycle trail is a 9 km half-day trip that goes mostly downhill. It's easy enough for anyone to enjoy. Be sure to stop and look at the hot springs and natural geysers. They make the park feel like another world.

After biking, you can explore more on foot. Try the tough hike into the Hell's Gate Gorge, which takes about 1.5 hours. The gorge's stunning views and unique rocks will amaze you.

For a great stay, check out the Sopa Lodge at Lake Naivasha or the Camp Carnelley's. They're close by and offer a perfect place to enjoy the area's beauty and outdoor activities in Kenya.

If you love biking or just want an exciting adventure, cycling in Hell's Gate National Park is unforgettable. So, get your bike ready, ride through the park's volcanic lands, and make memories in this unique Kenyan spot.

Snorkel, Scuba Dive, and Enjoy Water Sports at Diani Beach

Diani Beach is a top spot in East Africa for water sports. It's located 30 kilometers (19 miles) south of Mombasa. This place is perfect for those who love the sun and sea.

Diani Beach has many boutique hotels and private villas close to beautiful white sands and safe waters. These are great for kayaking, jet skiing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding. If you want to explore the underwater world, Diani is a top spot for scuba diving in Kenya.

Scuba Diving at Diani Beach: Best Times and Marine Life

At Diani Beach, you can see green and hawksbill turtles, triggerfish, moray eels, clown fish, stingrays, and giant manta rays and whale sharks. The best time for scuba diving in Kenya is from November to April. For whale sharks and manta rays, go from January to March.

Diani Beach is also great for water sports in Kenya, like snorkeling, kayaking, jet skiing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. The shallow waters near the shore are perfect for beginners. Experienced adventurers can explore deeper reefs and offshore islands.

"Diani Beach has been chosen as Africa's top beach destination five times since 2015."

Whether you're an expert or a first-timer, Diani Beach promises an unforgettable experience. It lets you dive into the beauty and excitement of Kenyan beaches.

Dine in a Naturally Sculptured Coral Cave at Ali Barbour's

Imagine sitting in a naturally sculptured coral cave, looking at the moon and stars above. You're enjoying a glass of wine and eating fresh seafood. Welcome to Ali Barbour's Cave Restaurant in Diani Beach, Kenya. It's a dining experience that mixes nature's beauty with the best of Kenyan food.

The cave at Ali Barbour's Cave Restaurant is about 150,000 years old. It has open-air chambers up to 10 meters deep. It's famous for its romantic vibe and serves amazing seafood dishes. The Chili Crab is a top choice, showing the restaurant's skill in Kenyan cuisine.

Ali Barbour's Cave Restaurant offers a unique fine dining experience. It has a free pick-up and drop-off from most hotels in Diani Beach. This makes dining there easy and enjoyable for guests.

"Dining at Ali Barbour's Cave Restaurant is like stepping into a natural wonder, where the beauty of the cave and the flavors of the sea come together in perfect harmony."

If you want a romantic night or a unique food adventure, Ali Barbour's Cave Restaurant in Diani Beach, Kenya, is perfect. It will impress you with its food and leave you with great memories.

Witness the Bioluminescent Plankton Display in Kilifi Creek

Head to Kilifi Creek, just two hours north of Mombasa, for a mesmerizing sight. Here, you'll see the bioluminescent plankton display. This town is often missed by tourists but is known for its stunning natural light show after sunset.

The plankton light up the water, creating a magical scene. This bioluminescence is rare and happens when the plankton react to movement. The best time to see it is from May to October, during the new moon when it's darkest.

Kilifi Wellness Festival: Holistic Healing on the Waterfront

Kilifi is also home to Kenya's first boutique wellness festival, the Kilifi Wellness Festival. This four-day event focuses on holistic healing. It offers wellness sessions, treatments, and workshops by the beautiful Bofa Beach and Kilifi Creek.

"Kilifi becomes magical after sunset when the natural bioluminescence in the tidal creek provides a shimmering night-time swimming experience."

Before a highway was built, Kilifi was a key stop for travelers on the ferry from Mombasa. Now, it's less crowded than places like Diani Beach, making it perfect for those wanting a real Kenyan experience. Kilifi is becoming a top spot for backpackers, with places like Distant Relatives Eco-Lodge offering dorm beds for about $20 a night.

Kilifi is a hidden gem with its bioluminescent plankton and the Kilifi Wellness Festival. It's a must-see on any Kenyan trip.

Adopt an Orphaned Elephant or Rhino at Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

In Kenya's Nairobi National Park, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust shines as a hope for orphaned elephants and rhinos. Since 1977, it has raised over 150 baby elephants and returned them to the wild. By adopting through the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust's Orphans' Project, you help save Kenya's iconic wildlife.

Exclusive Experiences for Adopters at Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

For just $50 a year, you can adopt an orphaned animal. You'll get a personalized adoption certificate, monthly updates, watercolor paintings, and special content. This lets you deeply connect with the animals' recovery.

You can also meet the baby elephants during a private viewing from 4 PM to 5 PM. This special time lets you walk with the orphans and their keepers. It's an unforgettable experience.

From 11 AM to 12 PM, the public can see the orphans return from their Nairobi National Park home. The Sheldrick caregivers feed the elephants every 3 hours at night. They act as a mother and father until the animals go back to the wild.

The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is dedicated to saving Kenyan wildlife. By adopting an orphaned elephant or rhino, you help their amazing work. Join the Sheldrick family today.

Kenya: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Twitcher's Paradise: Birdwatching at Lake Nakuru National Park

Get ready to be amazed by the colorful birds at Lake Nakuru National Park. It's a top spot for birdwatching in Kenya. The park, in the Kenya Lake System in the Great Rift Valley, has over 400 bird species. It's a dream for twitchers.

The park was once known for its huge flamingo flocks. But, their numbers have gone down because of lake changes. Still, the phenomenal birdlife is the big draw for nature lovers and wildlife photographers.

At Lake Nakuru National Park, you can see great white pelicans, greater and lesser flamingos, and many others. The best time to go is from November to April for birdwatching.

The park isn't just for birds. It has lots of big animals too, like white rhinos, buffalo, and Rothschild giraffes. It's one of the top places in Kenya to see these animals.

"Lake Nakuru National Park is a true haven for bird enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of species in a stunning natural setting."

If you love birdwatching or just enjoy nature, you'll be amazed at Lake Nakuru National Park. It's a place that will leave you in awe of the birdwatching there.

Explore the Historic Lamu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The town of Lamu Town lies along Kenya's coast, known for its well-preserved Swahili settlement. It has been a center of Swahili culture for over 700 years. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a unique chance to experience its rich history and traditions. You can wander through narrow streets, visit local markets, and see the Swahili architecture that has stayed unchanged for centuries.

Lamu's vibrant Swahili culture and architecture make it a top spot in Kenya for an authentic cultural trip. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the local way of life.

Walking through Lamu Town is an experience for all your senses. You'll hear the call to prayer, see locals going about their day, and see the beautiful Swahili architecture. This architecture is a mix of African, Arab, and Indian styles.

One of the best parts of visiting Lamu is taking a boat to nearby islands. You can see hidden coves and ruins along the coast. The Lamu Museum is also a key spot, showing the maritime traditions and crafts of the Swahili people.

Lamu is a place that will capture your heart with its history, culture, and nature. It's one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kenya. The town shows the lasting impact of Swahili culture and architecture. It's a must-see for anyone visiting the Kenyan coast.

Go on a Horseback Safari in the Legendary Masai Mara

Start an unforgettable journey in the heart of Kenya's famous Masai Mara National Reserve. This place is known for its amazing wildlife, like the big wildebeest migration. Riding a horse is one of the best ways to see it all. You'll get close to giraffes, zebras, and other African animals without the noise of cars.

Kenya has many horseback safari choices, from staying at a lodge to luxury tented-camp safaris. You can pick from short rides or longer trips. These safaris let you dive into the Mara's beauty and see wildlife up close in a green way. You can stay in luxury lodges or even fly camp, making your horseback safari in Kenya a top-tier experience.

But there's more than just game viewing. You can also go on walking safaris, learn about conservation, try hot air ballooning, and visit villages. These activities give you a full and memorable experience of the Masai Mara's nature and culture. Start your horseback adventure and see the legendary Masai Mara from a special point of view.