Kenya offers an almost limitless range of exciting activities from sandy beaches and incredible wildlife safaris, to sun and savannahs, and so much more. Kenya has so many facets. Most people know the country best for either its fabulous luxury beach hotels or its wildlife safaris. There is a good reason that it is one of Africa's most popular backpacker destinations. It is incredibly easy and cheap to travel around - just don't expect too much in the way of comfort. This is more than made up for by the excitement and adventure on offer.
Kenya's capital - Nairobi
With Nairobi being situated at an altitude of 2000m above sea level, the temperature is a little cooler than you may expect. Even though the city's modern centre may not be the most attractive part for most tourists, there are loads of attractions just outside the city. Many of the organised safaris and tours also start here. The Nairobi National Park starts where the city ends and is home to much exciting African wildlife. If you're looking to taste some of the local cuisine, then try a dish of roasted goat or sheep called Nyama Choma.
Trekking in Kenya
Lace up your walking boots and set out on a trek in some of this country’s most beautiful areas. The Rift Valley is the most obvious and it is a rewarding treat. For the hardcore trekker a sunrise from the top of Mount Kenya is a must. A trek or "matatu" from Nairobi to the foot of the mountain takes only 4-5 hours but from here it is a few days trekking through extremely varied and beautiful landscapes to reach the peak of Mount Kenya.
If biking is more your thing, then rent a mountain bike and "race" the giraffe and zebra in Hell's Gate National Park. Just watch out for the occasionally tame-ish baboons who will almost certainly try and steal your food.
Northern Kenya
For the truly adventurous, a trip to the more or less deserted northern region of Kenya by 4-wheel drive will offer an amazing experience. You can, amongst other things, enjoy the incredibly beautiful view of Lake Turkana, also known as the Jade Sea. Just remember to take plenty of food and water - you'll be crossing large areas with no contact with civilisation.
Safaris in Kenya
Visit the breathtaking savannah of the Masai Mara where you are almost guaranteed to see all the amazing wildlife you could hope to see. With a little luck (or planning) you could even catch the annual migration of wildebeest across the savannah - if you do, you will barely believe your eyes when seeing the vast number of animals swarming across the open plains.
Other wildlife hot spots, such as Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru, where it's impossible to avoid seeing large flocks of pink-flamingos or herds of hippo, area also worth a visit. If you make it to the Amboseli National Park then you'll get to see herds of African elephants. Here, on the large open plains and marshes, you'll have the fascinating sight of huge numbers of animals in picturesque scenery with Africa's highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, as a backdrop.
The different coast
A tour of Kenya should definitely be rounded off with a trip to its beautiful coast - a culinary gem if one likes fish and seafood. Why not wash down a heavenly meal with a local fresh fruit shake, while savouring the view of the white sandy beach and deep blue ocean as the sun sets. It's highly recommended to take a trip to the island of Lamu, a place where time stands still. Cars are banned, and the relaxed atmosphere of the place will calm you down.