Things to do in Kenya as a first time visitor

Kenya is an East African country full of diversity and offers a wide range of fun and adventurous activities and experiences for any person wanting to visit this country for the first time. From wildlife to rich cultural experiences, vibrant nightlife, city excursions, beach holidays, and much more. Depending on your interests, budget, timelines and ability, you can experience and create a lot of wonderful memories in any of the following activities.

1. Go on a safari:

Kenya is well known for its large National Parks and Reserves, which provide homes to a wide variety of abundant wildlife in their natural habitat, stunning landscapes, and luxury rustic accommodations with world-class service. Going on a wildlife safari adventure tour is one of the best activities you can do. You can visit National Parks and Reserves like Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu, Tsavo and others, to see the Big Five animals (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) as well as other wildlife. To get the most out of your safari tours, book a minimum of a 2 nights safari in any of the National Parks. If you have more time, combine at least two or three parks for a maximized experience.

See some of our Kenya Safari Holiday Packages

2. Visit the coast:

The Kenyan Coast is made up of at least 4 major beautiful white sandy beaches frequented by visitors. These include Diani Beach, Watamu, Malindi, and Mombasa. You can swim in the warm Indian Ocean waters, take a walk along the beaches, go snorkeling or diving, and enjoy the local seafood.

See our Kenya Safari and Beach Holidays

3. Experience the Local Culture:

Kenya has a rich cultural heritage with over 40 different ethnic tribes. Some of the ways you can learn about the local cultures in Kenya are by visiting local villages, souvenir shops, and cultural museums or attending traditional ceremonies, such as weddings, etc. You can also enrich your taste buds by sampling local cuisines.

4. Mountain Climbing and Hikes:

If you are an outdoor and adventurous person, consider climbing Mount Kenya, which is the second-highest mountain in Africa. There are also organized group hikes to other smaller hills in Naivasha, Aberdares, and other exciting places. Within the cities of Nairobi and Mombasa, there are exciting calming nature trails you can visit as you go on hikes. Enjoy stunning views of forests and landscapes.

5. Explore the Nairobi and Mombasa Cities.

Nairobi City

Nairobi is Kenya’s Capital City, and it has a lot to offer a visiting tourist. These include museums, markets, restaurants, wildlife sanctuaries, forests for bike rides and hikes, and a vibrant nightlife.

Mombasa is also a major City in Kenya and is the second biggest city in Kenya. It is located in the Coastal region of Kenya, and is a popular tourist destination as well. It is rich in cultural diversity, and historical sites and is great for beach holidays.

6. Attend a Cultural Festival

There are at least 4 or more major cultural events organized annually in Kenya. These include the Lamu Cultural Festival held in the last week of November, Mombasa Cultural Festival usually held between August and September, Masai Mara Cultural Festival, and the Maralal Camel Derby held in August. Attend one of these events for a great way to experience and enjoy Kenyan Culture. Expect lots of food, local music, dances, as well as souvenir shopping.

7. Visit a Tea or Coffee Plantation:

Tea and Coffee production is a major farming activity in Kenya. If you are interested in seeing how these crops are grown and processed, organize to visit one of the many plantations in Kenya. Kiambethu Tea Farm and Tatu City Coffee Estate are some of the popular plantations that you can visit.

These are just a few of the many things you can do in Kenya. Your itinerary will depend on your interests and how much time you have to explore the country.