The country in East Africa is famous for its magnificent safari parks, but it is far from satisfying only those who want to see magnificent African animal species. There is an excellent reason why Kenya is one of the most visited African tourist destinations, visited by more than one and a half million visitors annually. See for yourself.
When visiting Kenya, it would be a sin not to visit one of the natural parks that are home to a wide variety of animal species. Kenya has become synonymous with safaris in recent decades, whether visiting the Maasai Mara Park or admiring the hordes of elephants in Amboseli, a visit to this African country will not leave you indifferent. In addition to the African wilderness, Kenya also offers beautiful beaches bordering the Indian Ocean and a series of excellent treks that visit Africa's highest peaks. Dive into the waves of the ocean and admire the lively life below the sea level, or relax on one of the sandy beaches and indulge in excellent cuisine.
When to Kenya?
The best time to visit Kenya is between July and September, during the dry season, when you can admire the migration of many animal species in the natural parks. There is nothing wrong with visiting during the rainy season either, as there are significantly fewer tourists, and you can also admire the lush African vegetation.
What should I see in Kenya?
Let's start with the biggest attraction of this African country - safaris. It is among the most popular Maasai Mara National Reserve, which borders Tanzania and is named after the Maasai tribe that lives in the park. With their image and life, they have been shaping the image of the park for centuries and living together with nature, which is why various safari guides offer opportunities for the Maasai to take you through the park, either by jeep, bicycle or on foot. The Maasai Mara Park is famous for migrations during the dry season, when thousands of zebras, gazelles and other wild animals change their places of residence. You can see hippos and crocodiles in the Mari River. You can also see a large population of cheetahs, lions and velo leopards in the park.
These are most visible in the dry season, between December and February. It's also a feast for the eyes Amboseli National Reserve, which boasts the majestic Kilimanjaro in the background. Here you can admire a large population of elephants, as well as big cats such as lions and cheetahs. There are also giraffes, gazelles, zebras, impalas,... as well as more than 600 species of birds. Kenya's largest park is called Tsavo, located halfway between Nairobi and Mombasa. It is mainly known for the elephants that roam the red dusty earth and the Galani River that attracts a variety of animals. Shaba National Reserve also has a very special place, where George and Joy Adamson raised Elsa, the lioness that you can admire in the film Born Free. There is really no shortage of natural parks in Kenya, and each of them offers some of the most beautiful corners and natural attractions.
If you are a fan of feathered animals, visit Lake Nakuru National Park, where you can admire the flamingo colonies that have made their home here. Lake Naivasha is also a paradise for bird lovers. More than 400 feathered species live here, and giraffes, hippos and zebras keep you company while observing. Not far away is located Hell's Gate National Park , which also offers excellent opportunities for climbers, with its red cliffs and volcanoes.
However, it's not just the parks that make Kenya worth visiting. The small island of Lamu north-east of Mombasa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it is one of the oldest permanently inhabited settlements. Its history dates back to the 12th century, so it's worth walking through the labyrinth of streets and getting to know the island's rich history.
It is also worth spending some time in colonial Nairobi, which is famous for a number of interesting museums, including the Karen Blixen Museum, dedicated to the Danish writer of the best-selling novel Out of Africa. Just a 15-minute drive from Nairobi, you'll find Nairobi National Park, where you can watch lions and giraffes lazily resting in the shade or strolling through the savannah. The national park near Nairobi is very welcome, especially if you run out of time to visit one of the larger parks. You can also walk through the park as part of guided tours.
If you are particularly fond of elephants, it is worth visiting David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, an organization that works to raise awareness about elephants by rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned cubs. Visitors can watch the care of the cubs or watch the elephants run for the ball. But when only these grow once, they are moved to Tsavo East National Park, from where they are released into the wild. If you visited Kenya for the beaches, then head to Malindi, a seaside town with beautiful sandy beaches. It is also a great spot for diving and spotting coral reefs.
How to explore Kenya?
With internal flights, you can quickly and comfortably from Nairobi fly either to Mombasa and other places like Malindi or Kisumu. Smaller planes connect Nairobi and the national parks, but be aware that there are two airports in the capital: Jomo Kenyatta and the smaller Wilson. When visiting Kenya, most people swear by organized safaris, as part of which you are also provided with transportation. Many roads are well-traveled, but you may also come across less well-maintained ones, so think carefully before renting a car. Driving takes place in the left lane, which can be an additional challenge.
How much is a plane ticket to Kenya?
With Turkish Airlines, you can fly from Ljubljana to Nairobi for less than 400 euros, especially if you catch one of the campaigns of the mentioned carrier. You can search for flight tickets according to your vacation date HERE.
Covid-19 restrictions in Kenya
At the time of writing, you needed a Covid-19 vaccination certificate to enter Kenya. Just upload this, together with the negative test result, directly to the website and thus avoid unnecessary complications at the border. Check all current information about Covid-19 restrictions HERE.
Accommodation in Kenya
Severin Sea Lodge
Located in Mombasa, Severin Sea Lodge is a comfortable accommodation offering air-conditioned rooms with a balcony overlooking the green garden. The large outdoor swimming pool is perfect for cooling off in the hot summer, and you can indulge yourself in the hotel's restaurant. There are as many as three: Safari Restaurant, Imani dhow Restaurant and Kisima Buffet Restaurant.
Edmor Residences Riverside
In the center of Nairobi, you can find modernly furnished rooms and apartments. They feature a private bathroom with slippers. The rooms also have large terraces overlooking the garden. Every morning you are spoiled with a continental breakfast.
