Kenya is a land of breathtaking beauty, where ancient volcanoes, vast valleys, stunning lakes, and abundant wildlife create a stunning landscape. Time seems to slow down here, perhaps due to the deep history of the region (eastern Africa is believed to be the cradle of humanity). The people of Kenya are exceptionally warm, kind, hospitable, and proud of their beautiful home.
You’ll likely want to return to Kenya several times. Not to worry; you won’t run out of things to see or experiences to relish. To get the most out of your trip, connect with me. I’ll help you narrow down your options and match you to the regions, activities, and lodges that fit your travel style and budget.
Need to Know:
Airports: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), Moi International Airport (MBA), Eldoret International Airport (EDL), Kisumu International Airport (KIS), Wilson Airport (WIL)
Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES)
Transportation: Most travelers use a driver and a guide to get around. You’ll likely travel from lodge to lodge via a small plane. During safari, you’ll hop in your lodge’s safari vehicle.
Best Time to Visit: There is no bad time to visit Kenya. The dry season (June to October) is best for spotting wildlife and seeing the Great Migration. The sunny season (January to March and July to October) is ideal for beach holidays. The wet season (November to April) is the best time for bird watching. For climbing Mount Kenya, stick to January-February or August-September for clearer skies and less rain.
Ideal Length of Stay: Up to 14 days for a mix of city tours in Nairobi and safaris in various nature reserves like Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu, and Tsavo.
Signature Dishes: Ugali (maize-flour porridge), nyama choma (grilled meat), sukuma wiki (sautéed collard greens), githeri (mixture of maize and beans), chapati (flatbread), samosa (spiced filled pastry), matoke (stewed plantains), irio (mashed potatoes and peas), pilau (spiced rice), maharagwe (coconut beans).
Dress Code: Opt for comfy, lightweight, and neutrally colored safari-chic attire.
Nairobi
Kenya’s vibrant capital city is a bustling, dynamic metropolis surrounded by natural splendor.
What to Do in Nairobi:
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: Visit orphaned elephants at this center, which rescues and rehabilitates elephants while championing wildlife conservation.
Giraffe Centre: A bit outside the city, this center cares for endangered Rothschild giraffes, which you can feed by hand.
Kitengela Hot Glass: Watch artisans make gorgeous glassware.
Kazuri Beads: Discover handmade beads and pottery crafted by talented women.
Village Market: A shopping mall with local shops and bigger brands.
Ocean Sole: Take a free workshop tour to see how discarded flip-flops are turned into colorful art pieces.
Nairobi Arboretum: Wander among over 350 exotic and indigenous plants.
Nairobi National Museum: Explore exhibitions celebrating East African heritage and history.
Karen Blixen Museum: Visit the author’s home and serene surroundings.
Where to Eat & Drink in Nairobi:
Nairobi Street Kitchen: Numerous food vendors offering everything from Indian street food to cocktails with live local bands.
Cultiva Kenya: Farm-to-table meals brimming with organic heirloom ingredients.
Wine Box Cave à Manger: Enjoy libations and snacks.
Beer Room: Craft beer and comfort bar classics.
Le Grenier à Pain: French fare made from local ingredients.
About Thyme: A whimsical spot surrounded by gardens and greenery.
Hemingways Brasserie: Refined, elegant dining at the Hemingways hotel.
Talisman Restaurant: Diverse menu featuring produce from on-site organic gardens.
Where to Stay in Nairobi:
Hemingways Nairobi: European-chic aesthetic and exceptional hospitality. VIP partner perks include a complimentary 50-minute massage, daily breakfast, and possible upgrades.
Fairmont The Norfolk: Clean elegance on Nairobi’s Harry Thuku Road. Accor Preferred by HERA partner perks include $100 food/beverage credit and possible upgrades.
Tribe Hotel: Stylish boutique stay celebrating local culture. Perks include daily breakfast and possible upgrades.
Giraffe Manor: An ivy-covered historic manor with its own herd of wild giraffes.
The Rift Valley
Kenya’s vast Rift Valley is an impressive natural expanse filled with wildlife, lakes, and legendary nature reserves, including the Maasai Mara.
What to Do in the Rift Valley:
Maasai Mara National Reserve: A must-visit for safari and the Great Migration. Enjoy game drives and hot air balloon rides.
Hell’s Gate National Park: Hike, rock climb, and cycle in this park home to extinct volcanoes and wildlife.
Lake Naivasha: Spot hippos and various bird species.
Lake Nakuru National Park: See flamingos, zebras, giraffes, rhinos, and more.
Mount Longonot: Hike up this extinct volcano for panoramic valley views.
Menengai Crater: Kenya’s largest caldera.
Thompson Falls Nyahururu: Enjoy a picnic near this stunning waterfall.
Lake Bogoria and Lake Baringo: Visit these lakes known for their springs, geysers, and wildlife.
Where to Stay in the Rift Valley:
Angama Mara: A bucket-list-worthy hideaway with jaw-dropping views and incredible staff.
Sanctuary Olonana: A dreamy riverside retreat with glass-walled suites and an outdoor gym.
Loirien Mara: Three exquisite villas in the heart of the Maasai Mara with gourmet meals and a heavenly spa.
Mahali Mzuri: A 12-tent camp in the Maasai Mara with partner perks like spa credits and possible upgrades.
andBeyond Bateleur Camp: Glamorous and intimate with two separate camps of nine tents each. Perks include daily breakfast and possible upgrades.
Olare Mara Kempinski Masai Mara: 12 luxury tents in a private conservatory. Kempinski Club 1897 perks include hotel credit and possible upgrades.
Elewana Sand River Masai Mara: A rustic-luxe escape committed to sustainable tourism with 16 tents.
Fairmont Mara Safari Club: A five-star stay with perks like complimentary massages and possible upgrades.
Central Kenya
Kenya’s lush central region is home to Mount Kenya, an extinct volcano and Africa’s second-highest peak, and some of the country’s richest nature reserves.
What to Do in Central Kenya:
Mount Kenya: Explore the hiking trails on Africa's second-highest peak.
Ngare Ndare Forest: Walk amid natural pools and wildlife-filled trails.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy: Home to the last two northern white rhinos and special game-drive experiences.
Mwea National Reserve: An impressive but lesser-known reserve.
Chania Falls, Fourteen Falls, and Karuru Falls: Visit these stunning waterfalls.
Where to Stay in Central Kenya:
Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club: An elegant property with a clubhouse feel. Accor Preferred by HERA partner perks include $100 property credit and possible upgrades.
Segera Retreat: Intimate and luxurious with a focus on conservation, culture, and community.
Solio Lodge: The only lodge within the Solio Game Reserve, known for rhino-breeding operations.
Elewana Loisaba Tented Camp: A luxe retreat working closely with local communities. Perks include a visit to the Loisaba Conservancy headquarters and possible upgrades.
Elewana Loisaba Starbeds: Rustic accommodations on raised wooden platforms in a beautiful natural setting.
Sanctuary Tambarare: Eco-luxury near Mount Kenya with Maasai art and private verandas.
Ol Jogi: An 11-bedroom private home spread across eight cottages, offering an exclusive experience.
Coastal Region
This multicultural coastline overlooks the Indian Ocean, offering history, local towns, beautiful beaches, and world-class undersea exploration.
What to Do in the Coastal Region:
Mombasa: Explore the old city’s winding streets and ornate balconies, visit Fort Jesus, and enjoy prime beaches and underwater playgrounds.
Lamu Island: Discover the well-preserved Swahili settlement of Lamu, visit the Lamu Museum, and explore the Takwa ruins.
Where to Eat in the Coastal Region:
Tamarind Restaurant: French, Asian, and African food overlooking Mombasa’s historic harbor.
Cafesserie: Italian coffee, French baked goods, and café favorites.
Roberto’s Italian Restaurant: Wood-oven pizza and housemade pastas.
Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant: Dine in a cave that’s hundreds of thousands of years old.
Kokkos Cafe Bistro: Hearty breakfast or lunch.
Whispers Cafe: Charming spot for a low-key bite.
Where to Stay in the Coastal Region:
Hemingways Watamu: Beachfront luxury in Watamu Marine National Park with airy, breezy rooms.
Safari
With numerous on-the-ground safari partners in Kenya, your itinerary and desired experiences will dictate your stay. Plan for at least 2-3 nights in each lodge.
Luxury Safari Lodges in Kenya:
Angama Mara
Sanctuary Olonana
Loirien Mara
Mahali Mzuri
andBeyond Bateleur Camp
Olare Mara Kempinski Masai Mara
Elewana Sand River Masai Mara
Fairmont Mara Safari Club
Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club
Segera Retreat
Solio Lodge
Elewana Loisaba Tented Camp
Elewana Loisaba Starbeds
Sanctuary Tambarare
Ol Jogi
Whether you’re keen on the wildlife-rich savannas of the Maasai Mara, the beaches of Mombasa, or the peak of Mount Kenya, this insider’s guide will ensure you make the most of your Kenyan adventure.
Ready to plan your dream trip? Reach out to me at VBS Travel, and let’s turn your Kenyan adventure into a reality!
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