Kenya is a land of immense topographical diversity that spans the equator on the east coast of Africa. You will find rugged escarpments and volcanoes in the Rift Valley, the shores of Lakes Victoria and Turkana, mountains with snow-capped peaks, flat deserts and granite hills that give way to coral reefs and sandy beaches along the coast. This matchless landscape is filled with a vibrant mix of wildlife, cultures and an endless array of holiday activities.
Begin your adventure in the city of Nairobi. This modern capital city is situated in an area that was brackish swampland a little more than a century ago. The arrival of the train enabled the British to make this frontier town the capital of their East Africa colony. You can visit a wonderful museum and the home of Karen Blixen, the highly regarded author of Out of Africa. The city has a vibrant cultural scene of music, internationally recognized cuisine and a wonderful eclectic mix of colorful shops and boutiques. Nairobi is alive with boundless energy and a melding of races, tribes and cultures that produce its unique urban character.
Today, Nairobi is considered the safari capital of the world. You can retrace the footsteps of Meryl Streep and Robert Redford as you imagine life as an adventurer and hunter. Nairobi National Park is home to herds of buffalos, giraffes and wildebeests. You can see cheetahs, lions and rhinos in the parks, plains, cliffs and forests. From atop Africa’s second highest peak, Mount Kenya, you can survey the majestic landscape. There you will see dawn awaken the inhabitants of thick forested slopes and the snow-capped peak.
Travel to Masai Mara to visit one of Africa’s greatest game reserves. The Mara is comprised of riverine forest, woodland and grasslands that merge with the Serengeti. It is home to a breathtaking array of native wildlife. Eco-tourists can also visit Lake Nakuru, the Kakamega and Aberdare Forests as well as Mount Elgon and the southern region of the Great Rift Valley and the shores of Lake Victoria. The opportunities to explore the idyllic flora and fauna of Kenya are limitless.
You can find vestiges of Kenya’s colonial past in the port city of Mombasa, a city steeped in history. Explore the narrow streets and Arab architecture of the exotic old town. Guests can see markets filled with the aroma of spices and the colors of the traditional buibui, kanga and kikoy garments. You can tour Fort Jesus, an imposing 16th century fortress that guards the harbor. It is a testament to the struggle between Shirazi Arabs and the Portuguese army. The city is filled with churches, mosques and Hindu temples. Mombasa is a melting pot of history and progress as well as cultures and values.
Near Mombasa, travelers will find the sun, sand and surf along palm-fringed white sandy beaches. The warm inviting turquoise water of the Indian Ocean bathes the shoreline, as well as beautiful coral reefs. Relax in the sun or take an excursion offshore and view the reefs, dolphins, sea turtles and a myriad of native marine life. Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Reserve and Wasini Island are world-class dive sites. The quiet fishing village of Shimoni is the starting point for a series of caves that stretch from the coast deep into the jungle.
Whether your goal is a memorable wildlife safari, viewing dramatic landscapes or relaxing in the sun after a day of sightseeing, Kenya will exceed your expectations.
