Written by Tom Hooker
Whether it’s an iconic city or an entire country, there are dozens of travel destinations that make you feel like you’re traveling through time or walking in a scene from a science fiction book. From Europe or Africa to Asia and beyond, we’re on a mission to help you unveil these mysterious and fantastic places. In this week’s Fantastic Destination series, we’re exploring Kenya.
Ancient tribes, sun-stroked dunes, and wildlife diversity like no other—Kenya is a synonym for all of these amazing things and much, much more. A land of adventure, nature, and even romance for those who are set on finding it, this African country has a breathtaking collection of attractions that will dazzle even the most experienced travelers. Don’t take our word for it; Kenya is an amazing place that you should undoubtedly visit and explore in person if you ever have the chance. Curious to know more about this glorious nation? You’ve come to the right place. Here are seven attractions and things to do that will make you fall in love with Kenya.
#1. Mount Kenya National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site for a few years now, the Kenya National Park is one of the few places where you can see snow close to the equator. The park is also home to Mount Kenya, the imposing natural structure that also gave the country its name. Mount Kenya is the result of thousands of years of volcanic eruptions. While its three peaks are impressive, the glacier-covered summits of Batian and Nelion are the most popular for being the tallest and hardest to climb respectively.
#2. Mombasa
The second-largest city in Kenya, Mombasa has seen an influx of British, Arabic, Portuguese, Indian, and assorted Asian migrations throughout different time periods. Because of this, it offers what many believe to be the country’s most culturally diverse experience. With more than 300 miles of coral reef wrapping the closest coast, Mombasa is a prime destination for snorkeling, diving, and other natural water activities.
#3. Amboseli National Reserve
Amboseli National Reserve is home to Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, but it’s safe to say that there’s much more to see than the continent’s most imposing summit. This natural reserve is one of the best places in the country to see elephant herds in the wild as well as other large mammals like giraffes, gazelle, lions, and waterbuck.
#4. Hell’s Gate National Park
Known very well by climbing enthusiasts, Hell’s Gate National Park gives you the opportunity to spend the night camping and explore two extinct volcanoes that now form the Hell’s Gate Gorge, Obsidian Caves, and Fischer’s Tower. You can even sprinkle in a bit of tradition and visit the Oloor Karia Maasai Cultural Centre to hear Maasai singing and watch jewelry-making demonstrations.
#5. Lake Naivasha
The highest point of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha is a haven for bird watchers and nature lovers. You can see more than 400 species of bird throughout the year including many rare species of kingfishers. Once you’re done marveling at the lake itself, you can head to the Crater Lake Game Sanctuary to enjoy some of Kenya’s top trekking trails.
#6. Lamu Island
Located off the coast of Mombasa, the Old Town on the small Island of Lamu is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 12th century. You’ll notice that wandering around these narrow streets feels like getting on a time machine; and this feeling will only grow once you check out the Lamu Museum, Lamu Fort, or Donkey Sanctuary.
#7. Nairobi and the Nairobi National Park
Last but certainly not least, Kenya’s capital city of Nairobi gives you the opportunity to enjoy all the wonderful things the country is known for with an extra layer of culture and comfort. Moreover, you’ll also have the chance to visit the Nairobi National Park, which is known for its large mammal sightings and rhinoceros sanctuary.
Kenya has an untamable beauty that’s as wild as it is majestic. But, there are many ways to get from Nairobi to Mombasa, to Hell’s Gate, Lamu, and beyond. Planning your trip can become overwhelming if you’ve never visited this African gem before. The good news is that you can link up directly with local guides who speak English and have known the different regions of Kenya for a very long time. ALLMYNE is the easiest and most direct way to create your itinerary with the help of a local guide. The best part is that you can use ALLMYNE as a trip diary and sketchbook. You can even transform it into a high-quality paper album to share with your friends and family.
