Top Activities for Families in Kenya

When it comes to wildlife safaris, Kenya is the premier destination in East Africa for families with children.

Kenya offers great value for money, a welcoming culture for kids, ideal weather, and countless activities. From witnessing elephants in Amboseli National Park to encountering giraffes near Nairobi, enjoying the pristine beaches of Watamu, riding in wooden donkey carts on Lamu Island, or immersing in Maasai culture in the Masai Mara, there's so much to explore.

If you're thinking about a family adventure in Africa and are unsure how your kids will react, don't worry—it's almost a sure thing that both you and your children will adore Kenya.

Why is Kenya an excellent choice for kids?

The quick answer is: nearly everything! Kenya is an amazing destination for children of all ages. With experiences like sailing on a traditional dhow, spotting wildlife, and trekking on Mt. Kenya, your biggest challenge will be fitting in all the activities you want to enjoy.

In Nairobi, you'll find top-notch healthcare and well-stocked supermarkets, making it easy to locate diapers, formula, bottled water, and baby food.

While child-specific facilities are limited, many hotels and restaurants do offer baby-changing stations. In places without them, it's usually easy to find a quiet spot. The colorful kanga, kikoi, and other textiles are lightweight and perfect for use as a changing mat.

If you're traveling with a baby, you can use these textiles to carry your little one on your back, Kenyan-style, which is much more practical than a stroller on the often uneven and poorly maintained sidewalks.

For getting around, ride-hailing services like Uber are convenient in Nairobi and Mombasa, as are private taxis. Family-friendly travel options include arranging transport through your safari company, hiring a private driver, or renting a car for self-driving adventures.

If you’re renting a car, be sure to check the availability of child seats beforehand. For those seeking adventure, there are long-distance buses, and for travel between Nairobi and Mombasa (with stops at Amboseli and Tsavo parks), the train is a great option.

What are the top destinations in Kenya for families with kids?

For wildlife enthusiasts, Nairobi National Park, located just outside the capital, is the perfect starting point before venturing southeast and southwest to explore larger parks.

There are countless beautiful beaches and coastal spots to explore, including Wasini, Diani, Watamu, and Lamu. History buffs will appreciate the museums located in Nairobi and Lamu. For those seeking adventure, older teens might enjoy trekking on Mt. Kenya, along with mountain biking, rafting, and hiking—all easily accessible from the capital and beyond.

Top activities for families with babies and toddlers in Kenya

The Giraffe Centre in Nairobi offers a fantastic introduction to Kenya's wildlife for young children. Giraffes are active all day, providing plenty of chances to see and feed them up close.

On the coast, the beaches are excellent family-friendly spots, with Diani and Watamu being particularly suitable for babies and toddlers. The views are stunning, there are sheltered areas for calm waters, most beach resorts feature swimming pools, and the soft sand is perfect for playing and building sandcastles.

Top activities for families in Kenya

Begin your adventure in Nairobi with a visit to Nairobi National Park, where you'll have an excellent chance of spotting wildlife. While there, be sure to feed orphaned elephants at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

In the coastal town of Watamu, the charmingly relaxed Turtle Bay Beach Club has been a beloved spot for families, just like the glass-bottom boat rides available at Diani Beach.

Learning about Maasai culture is another fantastic experience. In addition to meeting many Maasai people during your travels, children can visit a Maasai village and explore traditional customs, including experiences at the family-friendly Oldarpoi Mara Camp.

Top Activities for Tweens and Teens in Kenya

Bush walks, night game drives, and the overall safari experience are just a few of the highlights available for tweens and teens. Popular family wildlife destinations include the Masai Mara, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, and Ol Pejeta.

Adventurous older teens can take on challenges like trekking on Mt. Kenya, mountain biking, and river rafting. Savage Wilderness offers exciting options, organizing cycling trips, including around the Masai Mara, for riders aged 12 and up, as well as rafting and kayaking.

For a more relaxed experience, tweens and teens can go snorkeling at Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park & Reserve, try stand-up paddleboarding in Watamu, or visit Lamu Island for a gentle introduction to Swahili culture, including a stop at the informative Lamu Museum. In Nairobi, the Nairobi National Museum is also a must-see, especially for its historical exhibits.

Tips for Planning Your Trip

Starting in 2024, travel to Kenya will be visa-free for all citizens of African nations. Other nationalities must apply for visas in advance via the Kenyan government’s e-portal. Children under 16 are exempt from needing a visa but must carry a valid passport and be listed on their parent’s application.

Some lodges and camps in wildlife areas may have age restrictions for young children, so it's best to verify this before making your reservation. For those that do welcome families, always inquire about potential discounts for kids.

You can find most necessities in Nairobi, but it's advisable to bring child-friendly insect repellent from home along with a light jacket, particularly for travel outside coastal regions.