You know Kenya as the corner of the world where safari dreams come true, where majestic lions let their eyes wander across seemingly endless savannahs, where thousands of wildebeest follow the rain across the wide plains, where princes propose to their princesses and writers find inspiration for world-famous masterpieces.

While we love Kenya for its safaris, there is so much more to discover in this magical country in East Africa. From the buzzing streets of the capital Nairobi, trekking tours through snow and ice on Mount Kenya and the white beaches at the Indian Ocean – Kenya will surprise and enchant you!

Let’s go!

 

The Cities

Nairobi

Nairobi is not only the capital of Kenya, but also a hub of activity in East Africa. If you travel in the region, you will sooner or later pass through Nairobi. This energy of arrival and departure, of coming and going makes the rhythm of this vibrant city. Even if locals will agree that the “coming and going” often ends in a big traffic jam. If you know the right routes, Nairobi will welcome you and show off its great restaurants, exciting nightlife and interesting museums.

Don’t miss… a tour though the headquarters of the United Nations, a visit to the orphaned elephants at David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust or the Rothschild’s giraffes at the giraffe centre.

You will be surprised… to see how green Nairobi is. The Karura Forest is known as the “green lung” of the city. Go for a walk in the forest!

 

Mombasa

With one million inhabitants, Mombasa is the second largest city in Kenya and for many centuries it has been one of the most important sea ports in East Africa. Like many other trading cities, Mombasa is a melting pot of different cultures, leaving traces of its multiculturalism wherever you go and whoever you meet. If you are a cultural enthusiast, Mombasa will welcome you with its narrow alleyways, colourful markets and the call of the muezzin echoing from the roofs of the many mosques around the city. Two estuaries hug the city which is in fact located on an island. Just a few kilometres outside the city, you can leave city life behind and relax on one of Mombasa’s sandy beaches.

Don’t miss… a visit to Fort Jesus, a fortress in the days gone by and a museum today, a walk through Mombasa’s old town or exploring the historic heart of the city

You will be surprised… to see how many people fit on the Likoni Ferry, the ferry connecting Mombasa and the mainland.

Foto: Wikimedia Commons

 

The Coast

Tropical beaches by the Indian Ocean

Malindi, Watamu, Kilifi or Shimoni – which ever coastal town you travel to, you really can’t go wrong. Tropical beaches and water as warm as your bathtub await you at Kenya’s coast. At the north coast, you can discover Malindi’s nightlife and live it up on kite- and surfboards. At the south coast, you can dive alongside marine turtles through the crystal-clear waters and explore dazzling coral reefs. Enjoy a cocktail in the gentle shade of palm trees. If you are longing for a beach holiday, look no further.

Don’t miss… a boat cruise to Wasini Island and Shimoni or dinner at Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant in Diani.

You will be surprised… how easily you lose track of time on Kenya’s beaches. Is it Monday, Tuesday or Friday? This is what taking time off feels like.

Kenianische-Küste

 

The Mountains

Trekking Mount Kenya

At 5199 metres, Mount Kenya is the second highest mountain in Africa. Kilimanjaro’s little brother is not as well-known as Africa’s highest mountain in Tanzania which means you don’t have to share the trails with crowds of other trekkers and can enjoy a more exclusive adventure. You will hike through moor landscapes and bamboo thicket until you feel the first snowflakes on your cheeks. Along the highest via ferrata in the world, experienced climbers reach Batian, Mount Kenya’s highest peak. However, most climbers and everyone without any climbing experience enjoy spectacular views from Point Lenana at 4985 metres. Once you have returned from your adventure on the mountain, go on a safari, spotting wildlife in Mount Kenya National Park which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997.

Don’t miss… the view of the majestic Kilimanjaro in the distance.

You will be surprised… to see eland antelopes and zebras in the lower slopes of the forest while trekking up Mount Kenya.

 

The National Parks

Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo and co

There’s no denying, Kenya and its national parks are like peas in a pod. Locals as well as international tourists cherish the home of the safari for all its natural treasures: the wide savannahs of the Masai Mara, the thick bushes of Tsavo and the marshes of Amboseli are home to elephants, lions, giraffes and gazelles, making Kenya one of the most popular safari destinations in the world. Whether you are a seasoned traveller or a novice to the African continent – magical Kenya will enchant you, again and again!

Don’t miss… the Big Migration of millions of wildebeest and zebras following the rains from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara, looking for greener pastures.

You will be surprised… how many twinkling stars you will see in only one night in the bush. You can lose yourself for hours in Kenya’s starry night sky.