The people of Kenya live a simple life, deeply rooted in traditions. Even their cuisine is a reflection of the culture, uncomplicated yet full of flavor. The tropical climate and vast lands make the country an ideal environment for the wildlife the country has become known for. At the same time, the diversity of the different tribes that influence the people of Kenya is widely seen.

Travelers looking for a taste of something unique and exotic will find it in Kenya. Nature lovers will appreciate the pristine conditions of many of the wild game nature reserves and the coral reefs found in the country. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy a hike at the Rift Valley. Those looking for excitement can’t go wrong with an authentic African safari to see the big five animals of Kenya. Foodies will enjoy the various tastes and simple flavors of Kenyan cooking, from nyama choma to various dishes that reflect the influences of other cultures on Kenyan cuisine. Travelers who wish to take a step back and relax can do so enjoying a cup of Kenyan tea, which is one of the best in the world. At the same time, there are a number of trinkets, carvings and other finds that travelers would enjoy as souvenir items to bring back home. Travelers will leave Kenya with many photographs of the wild outdoors and memories of one of the most exciting trips of a lifetime.

Here are the places to see in Kenya and things to do in Kenya. This section of our Travel Guide Kenya is one of the most useful guides for travelers, as it provides much needed information on what you can do so you know what to expect as you make your way to some of the most popular destinations in Kenya. Truly, the country of Kenya has much to offer travelers looking for something different that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. Here are the places to see and things to do in Kenya.

Travelers can see the urban side of Kenya in Nairobi, which is the biggest city of the country. However, those looking for some animals can find it at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Located just outside of the city’s capital at the Nairobi National Park, this is the place to see elephants. This African elephant orphanage will delight travelers with children and those who are conservationists at heart.

Nairobi’s National Park is the first national park in the country. It is the home to many black rhinos. Those who wish to see some zebras, gazelles, antelopes and other animals can simply take a mini-safari here. Although there are no elephants, it’s still home to many other majestic animals, such as cheetahs and lions. The best time to go is in the early morning or very late afternoon to avoid the heat.

Those who prefer to see giraffes should go to the Giraffe Center on Langata Road. It’s the place where travelers can get up close and personal with these gentle creatures. Travelers can have the unique experience of feeding, petting and even being kissed by a giraffe. Travelers with children will find it to be a fun and educational activity.

The Nairobi National Museum is located on Museum Hill. This is the premiere museum of the country and teaches travelers the history of Kenya. Each section has a distinct theme, such as Kenyan Culture, History, Nature and even Contemporary Art. There’s also an interesting area dedicated to various stuffed birds. A snake park and botanical garden could be found inside the museum grounds.

Travelers will like the Kazuri Beads Factory, which is located near the Karen Blixen Museum and Coffee Gardens. It’s an excellent place to pick up some hand made beaded jewelry pieces such as bracelets, necklaces and earrings that make for great gifts and souvenir items. Travelers could also pick up some hand-made pottery, handbags and other decorative items here.

Things to do in Nairobi

The capital city of Kenya is the place to check out the nightlife of the city and to see the urban landscape that is modern day Nairobi. Try the many restaurants in the city that serve authentic Kenyan cuisine, such as nyama choma or the many vegetable, rice and bread dishes of the country. Be sure to grab a bottle of Tusker beer.

When at the Nairobi National Park, sponsor an orphaned elephant at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Learn about how elephants, rhinos and other big animals interact in a natural and caring environment. Travelers even get to feed the animals.

Travelers who want a bit of action can take a trip to Hell’s Gate National Park, just over an hour away from Nairobi. Hiking, walking and sightseeing can all be done on one tour. Wear sturdy shoes so you can be comfortable making your way through this gorge. Bring a camera because you’ll catch a glimpse of some animals in the wild. There’s also a geothermal power site nearby.

For a glimpse of colonial living, pass by the Karen Blixen Museum. This is the former home of the Danish author, Baroness Karen von Blixen who once lived in Kenya and is best known for her novel turned into a movie, Out of Africa. Her home was the location site of the movie and most of the props that were used in the movie have been donated and are now part of the fixtures of the house. Although most of the original items found in the 1914 home are replicas, these are still well made and provide travelers some insight into the colonial past of Kenya.

Travelers should go to the Gedi Ruins. These ancient ruins are the remains of an old Swahili town, which existed sometime between the 13th to 17th centuries. These were first excavated in the late 1940s. Travelers will find an ancient mosque, palace and many stone houses. The ruins have been declared a national park of Kenya since 1948. There is also a

Butterfly Park

here, a welcome change after seeing so many wildlife creatures.

The Fort Jesus Museum is one of the most popular attractions for tourists. This historic site is a scenic location by the coastline by

Old Town

. The Portuguese construction was built in the 16th century. There’s a museum here that showcases Mombasa’s historical past as a trading port.

Things to do in Mombasa

Do not forget to take some great pictures of the Mombasa Tusks, the symbolic entrance to the city. These were built to commemorate the visit of Queen Elizabeth in 1962. Viewed from afar you will notice that the tusks look like the letter “M,” for Mombasa.

Travelers can visit Haller Park, which is a nature and wildlife area in Mombasa and the city’s biggest animal sanctuary. Feed the giraffes, hippos and even crocodiles. Walk around the park and simply enjoy the serenity of being in a clean and natural environment.

Travelers can also walk around Old Town to see the historic side of Mombasa. Take pictures of the old buildings, such as the old home of Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama. Travelers can also sip a cup of Chai tea at the many cafés here. The streets are quite narrow so Old Town is best explored on foot.

Old Town

has many picturesque houses and buildings, remnants of the h3 Arab influence in the area. This is just a short distance from

Fort Jesus Museum

.

Pick up some intricately carved souvenir items from the Bomobolulu Workshops. This workshop features physically challenged craftsmen that make some great carvings, perfect as souvenir items or gifts for loved ones back home.

Travelers looking to unwind can take a swim at Nyali Beach. This white sand beach is the perfect place to catch up on your tan, take a stroll, build a sandcastle or enjoy the cooling waters of the Indian Ocean. There are some boys who will peddle some items, so travelers could buy some souvenir items so take advantage and check out what’s available.

Travelers can also learn about traditional Kenyan life at the Ngomongo Villages, situated at a reclaimed limestone quarry. It’s an educational tour that will serve as a real eye opener to the simple way of life of the tribal people. Travelers may decide to bring a few treats for the village children. Have your picture taken with some authentic tribesmen. See how they live in their homes and how they go about their day-to-day routine.

Go to the Mara Triangle. This is just one third of the entire size of the Masai Mara Game Reserve. Rangers take care of the park and travelers can go on specialized vehicles that can take guests on sight seeing tours. There are many animal sightings within the park. Travelers can see cheetahs, rhinos, crocodiles and lions. During migration season, the wildebeests can also be found here, especially by the

Mara River

.

Things to do in Masai Mara

Africa is synonymous with going on a safari. Tsavo National Park is the top destination for tourists who want to see big game animals. Get your cameras ready to take pictures of lions, elephants, leopards and other animals up close.

For a unique point of view while on safari, take a balloon ride with any of the available Balloon Safaris. Be sure to leave early and watch how the hot air balloon is inflated before you make your way over the lands. Travelers are treated to a spectacular view of the sunrise over Masai Mara.

Located near the border with Uganda is the Rift Valley Province, an important location for the country. This where you would find Mount Suswa and Mount Longonot, now both extinct volcanoes. The Suguta Valley and five lakes, Bogoria, Magadi, Nakuru, Baringo, Turkana and Naivasha are all located in the province. Of the five lakes, the protected Lake Nakuru is one of the most famous. The lake is abundant in algae, the favorite food of flamingoes and the lake can be a sea of pink when the thousands and sometimes millions of fuchsia flamingoes come to feed and nest on the shores of the lake. It is quite a spectacle when you see a long line of these pink and white birds for several kilometers.

Things to Do in Rift Valley

While you are at the valley, explore the Lake Nakuru National Park. There is an enclosed sanctuary at the park where you could see white rhinos, black rhinos and Rothschild giraffes. Several other kinds of birds visit the park to feed and nest. You could visit the park after you have toured Masai Mara.