Among all the incredible countries we’ve had the chance to explore, Kenya is definitely one of our favorite destinations! Originally we had planned to stay for around four weeks, but we ended up staying till the last day on our 90-day visa.
Of course, the main highlight of your Kenya trip will be a safari adventure. After all, Kenya is renowned for its incredible wildlife and has deservedly earned the nickname ‘Safari Capital of the World’. And, you’ll have the opportunity to stay in Kenya’s luxurious safari lodges, offering you the perfect blend of comfort and adventure.
A Kenya holiday is much more than just a thrilling safari adventure. Countless unforgettable experiences are waiting to be discovered. From the rich cultural heritage of Lamu (the oldest Swahili settlement in East Africa) to the breathtaking scenery of Mount Longonot – one of the best mountains in Africa you can hike in a day, learn about the rich Maasai culture and Maasai people, and unwind on some of Africa’s most stunning beaches such as Diani Beach and Malindi Beach,
In case you are still not convinced, let us win you over with 25 amazing reasons to visit Kenya, the incredible safari capital of the world!
1 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Maasai Mara National Reserve
The first reason to visit Kenya is the Maasai Mara National Reserve and number one Kenya attraction. The Maasai Mara region is one of the most famous safaris in the world, for good reasons.
The majestic savannahs of Kenya, teeming with an incredible array of wildlife, are a sight that should be cherished by every traveler of all ages. These breathtaking landscapes, where the endless plains stretch as far as the eye can see, are not only a Kenyan treasure but a global wonder that should be on every bucket list.
Visiting Kenya’s Maasai Mara Reserve was one of our favorite highlights of all time!
Besides the massive amount of animals that you can see freely roaming, such as lions, elephants, zebras, gazelles, giraffes, and if lucky a cheetah or leopard, it is also an introduction to the Maasai people’s way of inhabiting the Maasai Mara region for generations.
- Did you read the above article and want to go on a Kenya safari, then use the link to find out how much a 3-day/2-night budget safari will cost!
2 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: See An Endangered Species
In Kenya, there are around 800 Eastern black rhinos left accounting for 12% of the remaining global population of this rare species, which is estimated to be around 6,500 individuals.
Sadly these days the black rhino is an endangered species because of poaching for its highly valued horn.
There are many places where you can see this tank of an animal in its natural habitat. Wild reserves such as Lake Nakura, Tsavo East + Tsavo West National Parks, and Maasai Mara all offer a unique chance to spot the endangered black rhinoceros.
Have you ever wondered what your Spirit Animal is?
3 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Kenyan People Are Awesome
During our three-month Kenya visit, we made many friendships with the happy local residents.
The warm and welcoming nature of the Kenyan people immediately made us fall in love with Kenya and is one of the most important reasons to visit Kenya.
Every day we would experience genuine friendliness, banter, and hospitality. When visiting Kenya, don’t be afraid to interact so you can experience this first-hand for yourself.
4 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Cheap Beach Resorts
Once you’ve finished your unforgettable Kenya safari adventure, you can spend the rest of your time staying at the many budget-friendly Kenya beach resorts on some of the most beautiful beaches in Africa. Surely this is another fantastic reason to visit Kenya!
From budget-friendly options to luxurious escapes, there’s a range of accommodations and activities to suit every traveler’s style and budget.
The Kenyan coastline is on the Indian Ocean and boasts many breathtaking beaches with white sandy shores and beautiful turquoise waters. Kenya’s best beach destinations. Diani Beach, Malindi Beach, Kilifi, Watamu Beach, and Lamu.
If you’re planning a Kenya holiday, these stunning coastal areas are all definitely worth considering.
5 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: The Great Rift Valley
The Great Rift Valley in Kenya is a massive natural geographical feature running through all of East Africa for nearly 7000 kilometers.
Starting in Lebanon in the Middle East, it goes all the way down through Africa, finishing in Mozambique.
On your Maasai Mara safari, you will have the opportunity to stop off at one of many viewpoints along the way. Most of these stops offer lunch and a chance to buy a souvenir.
6 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Hells Gate National Park
This Kenya National Park near Naivasha should be called Paradise Gate National Park!
In fact, this place is so unique and beautiful that it was the inspiration for Disney’s “The Lion King” due to its resemblance to the African savannah.
The best place to stay is the town of Naivasha so you can not only visit Hells Gate National Park, but also Mount Longonot National Park and Lake Naivasha. Open up the below article for your next read and then check out the prices for tours in our attached link
At Hell’s Gate National Park, you can freely bike through the park without a guide, taking in the breathtaking landscapes of towering cliffs, deep gorges, hot springs, and steam vents. You don’t need to worry about running into any predators in this Kenya national park because they’re not present in the park.
Afterward, you can relax in a mud bath and sulfur spa.
7 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Mount Longonot National Park
One standout experience of our Cairo to Cape Town journey was the trek in Mount Longonot National Park.
Situated close to Naivasha, Mount Longonot is a dormant volcano. This means, it is not currently active but is expected to do so again one day.
Hiking Mount Longonot will reward you with a spectacular view of the crater’s rim, which hides a secret paradise garden below.
The moderate hike to the rim is roughly 3 kilometers. Once you reach the top you can hike a further 7-kilometers to take in more breathtaking views. It is tough at times, but 100% worth the effort and another great reason to visit Kenya. The easiest option is to take a day trip to Mount Longonot from Nairobi.
If you want to read a full detailed article about hiking Mount Longonot – Click here.
8 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: The Great Migration
Visiting Maasai Mara National Reserve between July to September will give you a chance to witness one of the greatest animal migrations on earth.
Every year millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the border from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park Into Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve chasing fresh grass on the plains.
After a few months in Kenya, they return to Tanzania and complete the full circle before starting all over again the following year.
One of the main highlights is the crossing of the Mara River where hundreds of crocodiles and predators lay in wait for their yearly feast.
9 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: The Maasai People
One of the main reasons to visit Kenya is to learn about the Maasai Tribe.
The Maasai people are a semi-nomadic ethnic group that live mostly in Kenya and Tanzania. They are most famous for their unique clothing, which resembles a red Scottish tartan type of style.
The Maasai culture is much more than just their distinctive style of clothing, they are also famous for their traditional jumping dance, where competitors show their strength by who can jump the highest.
Visitors will have the opportunity whilst on a Kenya safari to visit a real Maasai village and a chance to participate in the famous traditional Maasai dance. You are expected to make a small donation for this.
On your Kenya trip, you will come across many Maasai people, especially on the beaches where they try to earn a living by selling traditional Maasai crafts and jewelry.
The Maasai people are very friendly and open to sharing stories about their traditions such as multiple wives, the killing of a lion, and intentional facial scarring. Don’t be shy and have a chat with them even if you do not want to buy anything.
10 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Amboseli National Park
Have you ever come across a famous image featuring elephants against a backdrop of umbrella trees and the Kilimanjaro Mountain Range?
Then more than likely that photo originates from Amboseli National Park.
The Amboseli National Park is another famous Kenya safari destination and another great reason to visit Kenya. Amboseli National Park offers sightings of all members of the “Big Five.”
Allow yourself at least two days to explore this part of Kenya.
11 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Sight the Big Five
So, you just read about the Big Five, but what exactly is it?
The term “Big Five” originated back in the hunting days in Africa and is referred to as the 5 hardest animals to hunt.
Hunting these five African mammal species was known to be extremely dangerous. Taking down one of these animals as a trophy was considered a remarkable achievement.
To find out exactly what the Big Five are, click on this link!
12 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Swahili Cuisine
The Swahili region refers to the coastal areas of East Africa, this is mostly Kenya and Tanzania.
The Swahili cuisine is a unique fusion of flavors and influences, reflecting the historical trade and cultural exchange with Arabic, African, and Indian societies.
Some popular dishes of Swahili cuisine are: Swahili pizza (a type of flatbread stuffed with mixed ingredients such as chicken, mince, potato, and spices) barbequed meats, beef stew, and rice dishes such as pilau and biriyani.
These Swahili foods are, filling, delicious, and very CHEAP!
13 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Lake Nakuru
Located around 160 kilometers from Nairobi, Lake Nakuru is a stunning freshwater lake located in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya.
Lake Nakuru is a famous premier destination with an almost guarantee to spot hippopotamuses, white rhinos, and even the endangered black rhinoceros.
If you are a bird lover, then you will also get to see large flocks of flamingos and other bird species such as eagles.
Ultimate 7-Day Amboseli, Maasai Mara, Hell’s Gate, Lake Naivasha, and Lake Nakuru Safari in Kenya
14 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park is one of the few national parks in the world that is located within the city’s borders.
Imagine seeing some of Africa’s famous wildlife on your doorstep with the skyline of Nairobi as a background.
Moreover, Nairobi National Park boasts sightings of all species of the Big Five. Other standout animal species you may see are giraffes, zebras, baboons, wildebeest, and warthogs.
Entrance fees cost 43 USD and are often NOT included with day trips.
15 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Lamu Island
Exploring Lamu Island feels like a journey into the past. The Old Town of Lamu has stood since the 12th century and is Kenya’s oldest and continuously inhabited location. These days it is a well-deserved UNESCO World Heritage treasure.
These days life is very chilled and slow on Lamu Island. There are no cars here, boats cruise up and down the waterfront, donkeys leisurely roam the streets, and friendly locals gather and hang around for their daily chat.
Besides the UNESCO heritage site, visitors can also enjoy stunning beaches and various tours.
Lamu Island and Lamu Old Town are truly a very unique places where history, culture, and natural beauty all meet up making it one of the best reasons to visit Kenya.
16 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Play Football Every Day!
If you love football, then you will love the Kenya Beaches.
Every day, Kenya’s beaches have many football games going on, making it a football paradise. There are all sorts of games going, from casual kickabouts to intense 11-a-side matches.
Everyone is always welcome to show their skills and matches will have locals, Maasai, and tourists playing. Sometimes you will even see games with nearly 20 players on each side.
Don’t be shy, embrace the opportunity, join the fun, and make many new friends!
17 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Hike Mount Kenya
Mount Kenya is Africa’s second-largest mountain range after Kilimanjaro and is one of the best mountains in Africa to hike.
There are different routes in Mount Kenya National Park, all with different degrees of difficulty. The most popular one is Point Lenana which is the third-highest peak on Mount Kenya and stands at an elevation of approximately 4,985 meters.
This can take 3 to 5 days to climb depending on your fitness and expertise.
The highest summit is Batian and it demands technical expertise and takes 5 to 7 days to complete. This is only suitable for highly skilled climbers.
18 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: English Is Widely Spoken
Kenya is a multi-lingual country where Swahili and English are the primary languages.
The majority of Kenyans are fluent in English, breaking down any communication barriers and giving you more reason to embrace the friendly nature of the Kenyan people.
19 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Amazing Markets
Another great reason to visit KenyaIn Kenya is the many local markets, as well as many tourist markets.
In Kenyan markets, visitors can indulge in a vibrant food scene that offers a range of affordable and delicious local options. From fresh and juicy fruits to mouth-watering barbecue dishes and savory pilau rice dishes, the variety of food on offer is truly impressive. With prices that are easy on the wallet, these markets are a great way to experience the authentic flavors and culture of Kenya
Meanwhile, Kenyan tourist markets offer you the chance to purchase authentic Swahili and Maasai jewelry, paintings, statues, and clothing at attractive prices. Always make sure to negotiate to find the best price for yourself and the seller.
20 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Paradise Kenya Beaches
Kenya boasts some of the best beaches in Africa. All with never-ending white sands and turquoise waters, these beaches offer various water sports, snorkeling, and boat excursions.
The top beach destinations in Kenya are; Diani Beach, Malindi, Kilifi, Watamu Beach, and Lamu. These are all fantastic coastal areas to visit.
21 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Easy access to Tanzania
Tanzania shares its southern border with Kenya.
If you’re planning a visit to Zanzibar, taking a bus from Mombasa (Kenya’s second-largest city and the entry point to the best Kenya beaches) will only require a smooth 6-hour journey to Dar es Salaam from where you will take a ferry to Zanzibar Island.
If you are in Nairobi you will find daily busses that go to Arusha, the gateway to the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. This journey will also take around 6 hours, including the Kenya-Tanzania border crossing.
To learn more about African visas, border crossings, and the requirements for your Kenya and Tanzania visas click on this link.
22 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Lunch With Giraffes
The Giraffe Manor experience is a unique dining experience offered at the Giraffe Manor Hotel in Nairobi.
On your visit, guests can enjoy a meal while giraffes roam freely around the Giraffe Manor. The giraffes often stick their heads in, allowing guests to interact with them, feed them, and take photos.
Complete your day trip with a visit to the nearby David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage.
23 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Cradle of Mankind
One of the first places where the earliest sign of human life was discovered is in Kenya. Today it is known as the “Cradle of Mankind” and another great reason to visit Kenya.
Many regions across Kenya have made major discoveries of ancient human fossils and tools, with some fossilized bones believed to be over 4.2 Million years old.
The National Museum in Nairobi is the best place to learn more about the origins of humans.
24 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Visit The Equator
A bit of a Kenya tourist trap, but still a cool and unique photo opportunity is the equator sign in Kenya. You can pay to witness “science” and see that water spins the other way if you are on another side of the equator.
Of course, this is nonsense and is more a magic trick than science, but good for a laugh and funny video/photo opportunity.
25 – Reasons to Visit Kenya: Very Affordable
Our last reason for visiting Kenya is its affordability and the amount of excellent deals on safaris and accommodations that are available.
In fact, the Maasai Mara National Reserve stands out as the ultimate safari nation to visit in Africa with exceptional value for your money. Especially when compared to other safaris in Africa.
One last reason to visit Kenya. Throughout the year, there are fantastic Kenya flight deals waiting to be explored. So why wait any longer, start booking!
Enjoy your Kenya Holiday!
If you are interested in visiting Kenya, then you are on the right track by reading this article.
We hope we have given you enough great reasons to visit Kenya, and we honestly hope you fall in love with the safari capital of the world as much as we did.
Have you visited Kenya, or planning a Kenya Holiday? We would love to hear your thoughts. Please feel free to leave us a message below or contact us through our socials.
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