The pleasure of visiting Kenya

From an economic point of view, the government has done much to make Kenya a destination of choice and invests massively in protecting and conserving the country’s natural heritage. The safety of visitors is also a priority for the Kenyan government and they have established a special unit within the local police dedicated solely to the safety and welfare of tourists. Kenya is still an expensive destination, but this is largely offset by the scenery and the fascination it generates.

Nairobi, the capital is the starting point of the Kenyan adventure. This vibrant and cosmopolitan city seems to never sleep. The city offers a wide selection of restaurants offering the best cuisine in the world and a variety of entertainment including nightclubs often hosting famous music stars from the continent. Countless shops and colorful stalls animate the center and await the visit of tourists. However, it is advisable to be cautious in popular places and not stray too far from public places to avoid any risk of abuse or theft tarnishing the reputation of a small town. Nairobi is also home to a beautiful National History Museum and the home of Karen Blixen, author of Out of Africa open to the public. But what is most surprising is the speed with which the visitor goes from life to urban wildlife. In fact, only 20 minutes separate the center of the national park inhabited by lions, buffalo, crocodiles, zebras, giraffes, rhinos and more. A little further afield, you can admire the Thika Falls, ideal for beautiful shots and movies, or go rafting on the waters of the Tana River.

experience wildlife

The diversity of fauna and flora in Kenya is world renowned. The thirty reserves and national parks that are scattered throughout the country offer different ways to discover wildlife. Whether by 4×4 vehicle, minibus, on foot, on horseback or even in a hot air balloon, it is an unforgettable experience that the visitor is ready to begin. The most famous Reserve is Masai Mara, named after the tribe that lives within the 320 square km plains, forests and wetlands where you can admire varieties of creatures such as lions, elephants, zebras, hippos and a large number of birds. . Every year around July, the Masai Mara witnesses the migration of spectacular wildebeests who come to seek a bit of refreshment and, at the same time, restore the balance of the ecosystem by providing enough food for the huge reserve of predators.

The Masai Mara offers a wide variety of accommodations to suit all budgets, whether you want to spot a fawn from the terrace of a luxury lodge or a tent in the jungle. Amboseli reserves another very visited, it is an extension of desert plain where giants like elephants or buffaloes cross. But the most impressive thing is the behemoth Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa that can be admired from afar with its snow-covered top. Climbing, walking with a guide, camel safaris are some of the activities offered by tour operators in this region. These are just two examples of the safaris offered here, but the choice is wide and the proposed formulas can also be adapted to the needs of visitors.

Mombasa and the coast

Mombasa is the main port of Kenya. There it has a rich Arab architecture, a legacy of colonialism for many years and it seems, being in continuous activity, to live at its own pace. It would be interesting to make a brief incursion into the history and culture of the region by visiting the Fort of Jesus, a symbol of the domination of the Portuguese in Mombasa at a certain time. Today Jesus Fort welcomes visitors with sound and light shows, followed by a candlelit dinner and even a sunset stroll in Mombasa Harbour. Mombasa’s south coast is a white sand beach bordered by lush rainforest, and is also home to many species of birds, baboons and even leopards. Small seaside towns dot the coast and inland. This little corner of paradise is ideal to relax and spend a quiet vacation. Nyali Kikambala or Vipingo are some beaches north of Mombasa. One can find a large selection of luxury hotels with the benefits that such facilities typically provide, such as fishing, excursions to nearby islands, water sports, plus quality cuisine and service. The coral reef, which in turn serves as a refuge for numerous marine species, offers vacationers the opportunity to admire the seabed by scuba diving.

Lamu Island

The small island of Lamu was settled in the 14th century by the Swahili and hasn’t really changed since then. Vehicles are non-existent and travel on the island is by donkey. In Lamu life seems idle and the time between ballads strung through the alleys that are a characteristic of the island and relaxation on the beach. It is a haven of peace plus the friendliness of the local. Lamu is a charming city that you can return to with a different mindset. It has regular flights from Nairobi or Mombasa, as well as private planes.

plan your stay

The Kenyan Ministry of Tourism has developed a website and program to better help potential visitors to choose between different options and find the best combination according to their needs, your travel agent can also model a circuit according to your budget.