Top 10 Unforgettable Experiences in Kenya

While Kenya boasts stunning beaches ideal for relaxation, visitors often find themselves constantly on the go due to the myriad of thrilling activities available in the country.

With diverse landscapes that include equatorial glaciers, towering peaks, wildlife-rich plains, and vibrant coral reefs, Kenya offers an extraordinary natural playground. The rich tapestry of cultures adds to the surprises around every corner. Here are ten must-have experiences in Kenya.

Embark on a safari to see the Big Five

Kenya is not only the birthplace of safaris but also the origin of the term itself, which means 'journey' in Swahili. For many visitors to Africa, encountering the iconic Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino, and elephant) is a key highlight, and Kenya boasts some of the continent's most breathtaking settings for this pursuit.

The Masai Mara is renowned for its abundance of wildlife, making it the most famous natural reserve. Lake Nakuru National Park, with its stunning flamingo-lined lake and forested cliffs, is another fantastic destination for Big Five safaris. Additionally, Amboseli National Park offers breathtaking views with Mt Kilimanjaro as its backdrop.

Located in the remote northern region, Samburu Game Reserve is prime safari territory, ideal for spotting leopards and home to its own unique 'Samburu Special Five': Beisa oryx, Grevy’s zebra, long-necked gerenuk, reticulated giraffe, and Somali ostrich.

Planning tip: If you find yourself in Nairobi, make sure to visit Nairobi National Park on the city's outskirts. Often regarded as the only national park within a city worldwide, this first game reserve in Kenya teems with wildlife, including lions, leopards, buffalo, the endangered black rhino, and nearly 400 bird species.

Set out on a hike

The trekking routes of Mt Kenya are arguably among the most stunning and rewarding in Africa. Its varied valleys, equatorial glaciers, and dramatic summit are remarkable, especially when experienced on a challenging multi-day hike to Point Lenana (4985m/16,355ft), the third-highest peak accessible without climbing gear.

The gentle slopes of Mt Elgon, located primarily in Uganda but accessible from Kenya, are inhabited by elephants, primates, antelopes, and approximately 240 bird species. This area offers excellent multi-day treks, as do enchanting walks with the Maasai through their territories.

You can also embark on incredible day hikes across Kenya—ascend Mt Longonot to its crater rim, discover hidden waterfalls in the Aberdare National Park, or enjoy a leisurely walk in the lush Kakamega Forest, accompanied by the sweet sounds of birdsong.

For a dose of greenery in Nairobi, Karura Forest serves as the city’s serene escape, featuring about 30 miles of trails that meander around waterfalls, caves, rivers, and wetlands.

Experience sailing on a dhow

Kenya’s stunning Indian Ocean coast is mesmerizing no matter how you choose to explore it, but the most enchanting way to enjoy the scenery is from the deck of a traditional dhow.

These wooden sailing vessels have navigated this coastline for centuries and remain a vital part of Swahili culture today.

Whether departing from the historic island of Lamu, which boasts Kenya’s oldest continuously inhabited town, the bustling shores of Mombasa, or the modern resort community of Diani Beach, these wind-powered journeys glide past breathtaking stretches of sand, secluded coral islands, and vibrant reefs filled with marine life.

Planning tip: Experience the renowned Tamarind Dhow experience while in Mombasa.

Experience the Great Migration

Dubbed the greatest natural spectacle on Earth, this phenomenon unfolds each year from July to October when approximately 1.5 million wildebeest, alongside hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, undertake a dramatic crossing of the crocodile-infested Mara River to graze on the verdant plains of the Masai Mara.

As the savanna fills with a flood of animals, herds of elephants and giraffes roam alongside, while predators like lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas follow in pursuit. The Great Migration is truly a spectacle of unending drama.

Embark on a mountain biking adventure

Mountain biking in Kenya transcends the ordinary; it offers a thrilling way to immerse yourself in the country’s stunning landscapes and encounter its remarkable wildlife.

Cycle along the red earth trails within the volcanic landscapes of Hell’s Gate National Park, passing by herds of buffaloes, giraffes, impalas, and zebras, or venture into the grasslands of the Masai Mara for a truly unique guided cycling safari.

Planning tip: For dedicated mountain bikers eager to challenge themselves, there are fantastic single-track paths of varying difficulty on Mt Kenya and in the Rift Valley near Naivasha. Alternatively, for a more relaxed ride, exploring the coastal regions around Diani Beach, Malindi, and Watamu by bike is a delightful choice.

Explore Kenya's coastline through diving or snorkeling adventures.

Kenya's tranquil inshore waters, protected by reefs and teeming with brightly colored fish, offer some of the most captivating snorkeling experiences in East Africa.

You can either float above the seabed and soak in the sights or dive deeper with a tank to explore the vibrant life beyond the reef, where whale sharks, dolphins, and swordfish can be found.

Top snorkeling locations include Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve, a sanctuary for green turtles; Galu Reef, known for seahorses, scorpion fish, and ghostfish; and Nyuli’s impressive coral reef wall.

Planning tip: If you're looking to enhance your diving skills, reputable centers offer open-water diving courses. Kenya is also ideal for beginners, with schools in Diani Beach, Watamu, and Wasini Island that provide PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) courses starting in pool settings under swaying palms.

Experience the rich diversity of cultures in Kenya.

While the allure of Kenya's magnificent wildlife attracts many, it’s often the connections made with the local people that leave a lasting impression. Encounters with the Maasai, dressed in their traditional red shukas and vibrant culture, enrich any visit to the Mara region.

Similarly, the captivating Turkana people in Loiyangalani by the shores of Lake Turkana offer unique experiences. Attending the annual Marsabit-Lake Turkana Festival introduces visitors to various communities from northern Kenya, including the El Molo, Rendille, Samburu, Dassanach, Gabra, Borana, Konso, Sakuye, Garre, Waata, Burji, and Somali.

Kenya's cultural diversity is remarkable. Its colonial past has led to a significant South Asian population, including Hindus, Muslims, Goans, and Sikhs, along with a smaller but influential white European community.

In contrast, the Swahili people along the coast from Mombasa to Malindi are united by language and a shared African history connected to Arabia and Persia, even though their heritages vary. The best way to immerse yourself in this culture is to explore the winding streets of Lamu town and Shela village on Lamu Island.

Planning tip: Consider timing your trip to coincide with one of Kenya's many vibrant cultural festivals for an enriching experience.

Ride the waves or harness the wind

Looking for an adrenaline rush along the Indian Ocean? The same winds that fill the graceful dhows also drive thrilling water sports: windsurfing and kitesurfing. The latter has gained popularity in Kenya, with numerous schools offering lessons for novices and equipment rentals for seasoned kitesurfers.

Diani Beach and the nearby Galu Beach are hotspots for water sports, while Nyali and the quieter Shanzu beaches near Mombasa are also excellent choices.

The waters off Watamu and Malindi are perfect for seasoned surfers due to the larger waves and absence of reefs. The adventure continues inland with thrilling whitewater rafting available on the Tana (or Sagana) and Athi rivers, which cascade down from the Central Highlands during specific seasons.

Soar above Kenya in a hot-air balloon

One of the most enchanting safari experiences in Kenya is to gradually ascend above the iconic rolling savanna and acacia trees of the Masai Mara, one thrilling flame burst at a time, in a hot-air balloon.

Drifting silently over streams of wildebeest during their Great Migration, observing lions on the hunt, or spotting a solitary black rhino navigating the brush offers an unforgettable perspective.

When the light is just right, you can witness the perfectly formed shadows of elephants, the largest of the Big Five, cast across the landscape. Few experiences are as tranquil yet exhilarating as a hot-air balloon safari in Kenya.

Embark on a camel safari

Camel safaris offer a fantastic blend of wildlife, culture, stunning landscapes, and adventure, allowing you to explore remote regions that few others—and often no vehicles—can access.

Most safaris take place in the northern tribal regions of Samburu and Turkana, giving visitors a chance to observe nomadic lifestyles and engage with local communities. While wildlife may not be as abundant as in the southern parks, the journey itself is the highlight.

Mornings are filled with movement, allowing guests to either ride the camels or walk alongside them based on their preference. After setting up camp around noon, participants can enjoy guided walks, cultural exchanges, or simply unwind for the afternoon.

Experienced Samburu warriors, known as moran, typically lead the camel caravans, accompanied by English-speaking tribal guides who share fascinating insights into local folklore, plants, birds, and customs.