193
Most people think of Kenya as having beautiful savannah plains and exciting wildlife viewing at sunrise, but there is so much more to Kenya than that. A country filled with so many different activities, with many different cultures and coastlines. There are mountains that are often surrounded by mist, large cities, and historic Swahili towns by the Indian Ocean, where you can have a very diverse and enriching experience. Many experiences are easy to get to, and for those who can look past the wildlife, they’ll find that Kenya is a very dynamic place with so much culture and soul; it’s much more affordable than most people think, says Mira Bid, Managing Director of Muthaiga Travel Limited.
- Wander the Labyrinth of Lamu Old Town: Most people think of Kenya as having beautiful savannah plains and exciting wildlife viewing at sunrise, but there is so much more to Kenya than that. A country filled with so many different activities, with many different cultures and coastlines. There are mountains that are often surrounded by mist, large cities, and historic Swahili towns by the Indian Ocean, where you can have a very diverse and enriching experience. Many experiences are easy to get to, and for those who can look past the wildlife, they’ll find that Kenya is a very dynamic place with so much culture and soul; it’s much more affordable than most people think.
- Trek the Trails of Mount Kenya: Mount Kenya is located thousands of feet above the equatorial lowlands and offers those seeking adventure a dramatic break from the traditional safari experience. The trek through Mount Kenya’s dense forests to its high-altitude ridges is a journey through three different ecosystems: montane forest (bamboo), subalpine (giant lobelia) and alpine (glacier-carved valleys). As you ascend towards Point Lenana on Mount Kenya, the air becomes increasingly thin, and the views extend further, with a visual feast of clouds and mountains. This is an incredible journey of endurance and beauty, one that unveils the wild beauty of Kenya, step by breathtaking step.
- Discover Coastline Culture at Diani Beach: The beauty of Kenya lies not only in its savanna but also in its coastline along Diani Beach. The Indian Ocean glimmers in countless shades of turquoise, with palm trees lining the beach and soft white sand covering the land. Diani Beach is a great place to spend time, either enjoying the many activities such as snorkelling over coral reefs, kite surfing on warm ocean breezes, or just relaxing in a hammock and watching the sun go down. Couples and families can find a peaceful getaway at one of these resorts.
- Dive Into History at Malindi Museum: The Malindi Museum, located in the centre of Malindi’s ancient city centre, guides visitors through hundreds of years of Swahili, Arab, Portuguese and British culture. Inside the Old German Post Office (in historic Malindi), you will find collections of traditional Swahili clothing, jewellery, household artefacts and maritime artifacts related to the rich history of Malindi. In addition to the museum, the price of entry also provides an opportunity to see the nearby Vasco da Gama Pillar and Portuguese Chapel; two important cultural sites worth visiting when exploring Kenya outside of the many famous wildlife sanctuaries and parks that make Kenya truly exceptional!
- Explore Gedi Ruins: The Gedi Ruins, located deep in coastal woodland adjacent to Malindi, are the remains of a once thriving Swahili town dating back to the 13th century. These ruins consist of coral-stone mosques, a derelict palace, and graceful pillar tombs that stand amidst dense foliage, providing a glimpse into an area filled with the activities of commerce and mysticism. Walk along the shaded paths of the Gedi ruins, check out the museum on-site, and see monkeys leap from tree to tree as you explore this fascinating part of Kenya’s rich history that extends well beyond the savanna.
- Marvel at Indigenous Art and Architecture: Kenya has fantastic wildlife, but it is also home to an incredible variety of cultural sites, such as indigenous art and architecture, which represent the spirit and essence of the country. Nairobi is home to many contemporary art galleries that showcase the essence of Africa, while the coastal town of Lamu contains beautiful centuries-old Swahili homes, complete with elaborate wooden carvings and coral stone. Many traditional Maasai and Samburu villages feature colourful beaded creations and earthen homes that remind visitors of their history, culture and creativity and were made as a result of living upon and leaving legacies on the land.
- Get Your Adrenaline Fix: With more than just amazing safari experiences, there are many ways to get your adrenaline pumping while in Kenya. You can fly through a zip line in the dense canopies of Kereita Forest, white-water raft on the raging waters of Sagana, or even skydive above the turquoise waters of Diani Beach! Additionally, you can snorkel among vibrant coral reefs on the coast of the Indian Ocean, hike to secluded waterfalls, and ride a mountain bike on the various trails throughout the forests. Travelling to Kenya will give you an energetic experience, showing that Kenya’s spirit extends beyond its savanna by providing high-adrenaline activities.
- Bike Hell’s Gate Gorge: Take a break from riding in a safari Jeep and trade in those four wheels for two when you ride your bike through Hell’s Gate National Park for the ultimate ground adventure! On this private guided full-day tour from Nairobi, you’ll cycle approximately nine kilometres from Elsa’s Gate to the spectacular gorge, where you have the chance to see zebras and gazelles roaming freely throughout the Great Rift Valley. The cost of your entrance fee, bike rental and transfer to and from this bike ride includes all of these items, but the bike ride does not include a full-day trip to Lake Naivasha, which is an incredible experience that gives you a real feel for the beauty of wild Kenya with the wind in your hair!
- Visit Rabai and Kitale Museums: Kenya has rich cultures, and the Rabai Museum and Kitale Museum show evidence of this. The Rabai Museum shares a history of East Africa and Christianity through artifacts from centuries past, and at Kitale, it is possible to see homesteads built by indigenous people and many examples of Kenya’s long history. Travellers should explore beyond just the savannahs to understand the multiple layers of Kenya’s history.
- Kayak, Kite & Relax: Kenya provides an opportunity to take your time and smoothly glide through beautiful turquoise waters, in addition to its incredible wildlife. You can kayak through the Watamu mangroves, paddle the peaceful creeks of Diani Beach, or explore the peaceful inlets near Lamu Island. When the winds pick up, you can kitesurf on the warm waves of the Indian Ocean, then relax on the soft sandy beaches while watching the sun turn the sky a golden colour at sunset.
Kenya is at its finest when you leave safari routes behind. It encompasses everything from misty peaks to colourful cities and a wide variety of landscapes. Underneath everything lies a lot of history, excitement, and a great deal of affordability, as well as some very warm people! So if you’re looking for an exciting place full of music, culture, and historical significance, then look no further than Kenya!
Read more at TravelMail | Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | and Instagram for on-the-go news
