Best things to do in Kenya

• Capital: Nairobi
• Language(s): Swahili, English
• Currency: Kenyan shilling (KES)
• Dial Code: + 254

Kenya Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Wild Adventures, and Epic Places to Visit

If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping coffee while zebras graze in the distance, or watching the sunrise over a mountain taller than your problems, Kenya is calling your name. This East African gem isn't just about safaris (though, trust us, they’re amazing). It’s a travel buffet: majestic wildlife, stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, rich history, vibrant cities, and enough things to do to keep your itinerary—and your camera roll—bursting at the seams.

In this ultimate Kenya travel guide, we’ll take you on a whirlwind journey through the top attractions, must-see places to visit, and the most unforgettable sightseeing experiences. Buckle up—your bucket list is about to get a lot longer.

Where is Kenya and What Makes It So Special?

Kenya, officially the Republic of Kenya, is perched proudly on the equator in East Africa, bordered by the Indian Ocean to the southeast and a stack of other adventurous countries: Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia. It’s home to nearly 40 million people and a kaleidoscope of cultures, languages, and landscapes.

Its capital, Nairobi, is not your typical city—it’s a buzzing metropolis where skyscrapers share space with giraffes (yes, really). Kenya is also the proud owner of 580,000 square kilometers of land, which includes everything from coastal paradise to near-desert north, highland forests, and the iconic savannahs that you’ve definitely seen in at least one documentary narrated by David Attenborough.

Things to Do in Kenya That Will Blow Your Mind

Let’s talk about things to do in Kenya—because this country isn’t short on excitement. In fact, narrowing it down is the real challenge.

• Go on a Safari in the Maasai Mara
  If you only do one thing in Kenya (which would be a shame, honestly), make it this. The Maasai Mara is the heavyweight champion of top attractions in Kenya. Think lions, elephants, cheetahs, wildebeest, and more—all living their best lives in the wild. Visit during the Great Migration and you’ll witness a real-life National Geographic episode.

• Climb Mount Kenya
  Kilimanjaro may get all the fame, but Mount Kenya is the cool, underrated sibling with just as much charm. It’s the second-highest peak in Africa and perfect for trekkers who want stunning views without the crowded trails.

• Chill on the Beaches of Diani and Lamu
  Ready to switch your hiking boots for flip-flops? Kenya’s coast is seriously underrated. Diani Beach offers white sands and turquoise waters that rival the Maldives—without the price tag. Lamu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is all narrow alleys, donkeys instead of cars, and centuries-old Swahili architecture. Bliss.

• Visit Lake Nakuru for Flamingos and Rhinos
  Lake Nakuru is a safari with a pink twist. Flamingos flock here in the thousands, turning the lake into a sea of bubblegum feathers. Bonus: it's also a great place to spot white and black rhinos.

• Catch a Sunset in Amboseli National Park
  Here’s the Instagram shot: a herd of elephants marching in front of Mount Kilimanjaro, dust clouds swirling in golden light. Amboseli is known for its elephants, and the views are simply next-level.

• Explore Nairobi National Park
  This is the only capital city in the world with a national park right on its doorstep. Where else can you see giraffes and zebras with skyscrapers in the background?

Sightseeing in Kenya: A Cultural Adventure

Kenya isn’t just about animals (though we can’t blame you for being obsessed). It’s a cultural goldmine, and sightseeing here offers a deep dive into the country’s rich history.

• The Karen Blixen Museum
  If “I had a farm in Africa” rings a bell, head to the former home of the Out of Africa author near Nairobi. It’s charming, historical, and gives a glimpse into colonial-era Kenya.

• The Fort Jesus Museum in Mombasa
  Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, this fort has seen it all: battles, conquests, and centuries of maritime drama. It’s one of the top places to visit on the coast.

• Bomas of Kenya
  Want a crash course in Kenya’s diverse tribes and traditions? This cultural center offers traditional music, dance, and architecture. It’s educational—but way more fun than school.

A Quick History Lesson (Don't Worry, It’s Interesting)

Kenya has been home to humans since the dawn of time—literally. Fossils show that early humans lived here during the Lower Paleolithic period. It’s been shaped by Bantu migrations, Arab and Persian traders, and colonial powers. The British turned it into a colony in 1920, and Kenya gained independence in 1963. Since then, it’s been forging its own identity—one that blends ancient customs with modern energy.

What to Know Before You Go

Every good travel guide includes the practical stuff, so here are the basics:

• Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES)

• Language: English and Swahili (plus dozens of local languages)

• Best time to visit: June to October (dry season, perfect for safaris)

• Getting around: Domestic flights are easy and reliable; matatus (minibuses) are fun and chaotic—ride at your own risk.

• Visa: Most travelers need an eVisa. It’s easy and online.

Kenya’s Best-Kept Secrets

We’ve covered the top attractions, but if you like going off the beaten path:

• Lake Turkana: Remote, wild, and otherworldly—like stepping onto Mars.

• Hell’s Gate National Park: The only park in Kenya where you can walk or cycle among wildlife. Bonus: it inspired the scenery in The Lion King.

• Rusinga Island: Chill vibes, fishing villages, and a slice of local life that few tourists ever see.

Fun Facts to Impress Your Travel Buddies

• Kenya is a world leader in long-distance running. Ever heard of Eliud Kipchoge? Yep, he's from here.

• Coffee and tea from Kenya are some of the best in the world—don’t leave without tasting both.

• The Great Rift Valley runs right through the country and offers some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth.

• The giraffe is Kenya’s unofficial supermodel. You’ll know what we mean when you see one in real life.

Final Thoughts: Why Kenya Should Be Your Next Destination

Kenya isn’t just another pin on the map—it’s a full-blown, senses-overload, heart-expanding experience. Whether you’re into big cats or big cities, beach days or mountain hikes, cultural immersion or just bragging rights for visiting somewhere awesome, Kenya delivers.

So pack your sense of adventure (and maybe a wide-brim hat), because this East African wonderland is ready to wow you. With endless places to visit, exciting things to do, and awe-inspiring sightseeing, Kenya is the travel experience you didn’t know you were missing.