Ultimate Kenya Travel Guide – Where to Go, What to See & How to Plan

Explore Kenya: The Heart of Africa’s Safari, Culture & Coastline

Dreaming of an African adventure? Kenya offers an unforgettable mix of wildlife, landscapes, rich culture, and beach bliss. From the world-famous Maasai Mara to the turquoise waters of Diani Beach, this guide from Hi2Africa.com covers everything you need to plan the perfect Kenyan journey.

Quick Facts About Kenya

  • Location: East Africa

  • Capital City: Nairobi

  • Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES)

  • Official Languages: English and Swahili

Where Is Kenya Located?

Kenya lies in East Africa, bordered by Ethiopia, Somalia, Tanzania, Uganda, and South Sudan. To the southeast is the Indian Ocean. The capital, Nairobi, is a central travel hub with direct flights from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Why Travel to Kenya?

Kenya is a traveler's paradise. Here's why it should be your next destination:

Kenya Safari Adventures – Witness the Great Migration

Experience the Great Migration in Maasai Mara, one of the world’s most iconic wildlife spectacles. See lions, elephants, cheetahs, and more across vast savannahs.

Cultural Immersion – Discover Kenya's Diverse Tribes

Engage with over 40 ethnic groups including the Maasai, Luo, and Kikuyu. Learn their traditions, enjoy cultural dances, and visit local villages.

Scenic Diversity – Mountains, Lakes & Beaches

Explore the snow-capped Mount Kenya, pink flamingos at Lake Nakuru, and pristine beaches in Diani or Lamu.

Adventure Activities

Go trekking on Mount Kenya, ride a hot-air balloon over the savannah, or enjoy kite surfing along the coast.

Conservation Tourism

Support wildlife conservation at sanctuaries like Ol Pejeta Conservancy and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

Kenya Visa and Entry Requirements

Worried about paperwork? Leave the visa to Hi2Africa.com. We provide fast and secure visa services so you can focus on planning your adventure.

  • Most travelers need an eVisa (apply online before arrival).

  • Valid passport required (6+ months).

  • COVID-19 rules may apply. Visit hi2africa.com for latest updates.

Best Flight Deals to Kenya

Let hi2africa.com find you the best flight options. We compare top airlines to ensure you fly safely, affordably, and conveniently to Nairobi, Mombasa, or Kisumu.

Top Accommodation Options in Kenya

From luxury to budget, Kenya has it all:

  • Luxury Lodges: Maasai Mara, Amboseli (e.g. Angama Mara, Elewana Collection)

  • Safari Camps: Comfortable tents with wildlife views

  • Beach Resorts: Diani, Watamu, Malindi

  • City Hotels: Nairobi, Mombasa

  • Boutique & Eco-lodges: Unique stays in remote areas

Book all your stays easily at hi2africa.com.

How to Get Around Kenya

Choose from multiple transport options:

  • Domestic Flights: Fastest way to reach parks & coast

  • Tour Vans & Jeeps: Great for guided safaris

  • Airport Transfers: Pre-book with hi2africa.com

  • Matatus & Boda Bodas: For local flavor (if you're adventurous)

  • Ferries: For crossing coastal waters (e.g., Mombasa Island)

Must-Try Traditional Kenyan Foods

Get a taste of Kenya with these flavorful dishes:

  • Ugali: Cornmeal staple, served with meat or greens

  • Nyama Choma: Grilled meat (beef/goat) served with kachumbari

  • Chapati: Soft flatbread

  • Githeri: Boiled maize and beans

  • Sukuma Wiki: Sautéed collard greens

  • Mandazi: Sweet fried dough, like doughnuts

  • Mutura: Grilled African sausage

  • Maharagwe: Coconut bean stew

Best Time to Visit Kenya

  • June–October (Dry Season): Best for safaris, Great Migration

  • November–December (Short Rains): Fewer crowds, green scenery

  • March–May (Long Rains): Low season, best for birdwatching

  • January–February (Shoulder Season): Good wildlife viewing & fewer tourists

  • Year-Round: Coastal areas like Mombasa are great anytime

Top Safari Experiences in Kenya

Book your safari at hi2africa.com and explore:

  • Maasai Mara: Great Migration, Big Five

  • Amboseli: Elephants & Kilimanjaro views

  • Samburu: Unique wildlife (Grevy’s zebra, gerenuk)

  • Tsavo East/West: Vast landscapes, red elephants

  • Lake Nakuru: Flamingos & rhinos

  • Laikipia: Exclusive conservancies, wild dogs

  • Nairobi NP: Wildlife near the capital

  • Ol Pejeta: Last northern white rhinos

  • Lewa & Meru: Off-the-beaten-track gems

What to Know About Kenyan Culture

  • Ethnic Diversity: Over 40 groups

  • Languages: Swahili (widely spoken) + English (official)

  • Respect for Elders: A cultural cornerstone

  • Religion: Mostly Christian & Muslim

  • Music & Dance: Central to celebrations

  • Traditional Attire: Especially among Maasai & coastal Swahili

  • Craftsmanship: Beadwork, wood carving, and textiles

  • Hospitality: Kenyans are warm and welcoming

Languages Spoken in Kenya

  • Swahili: Lingua franca across all communities

  • English: Official language, used in business & schools

  • Others: Kikuyu, Luo, Luhya, Kamba, Maasai, and more

Must-Visit Markets & Historical Places

Markets

  • Maasai Market (Nairobi): Jewelry, textiles, souvenirs

  • Toi Market: Clothes and accessories

  • Mombasa Old Town Market: Swahili crafts

  • Kisumu Market: Local produce & crafts

Historical Sites

  • Fort Jesus: 16th-century fort in Mombasa

  • Lamu Old Town: UNESCO World Heritage site

  • Karen Blixen Museum: Author of Out of Africa

  • Gede Ruins: 12th-century Swahili ruins

  • Jumba La Mtwana: Coastal ruins

  • Ngong Hills: Historical hiking trails

  • Kitale Museum: Culture & paleontology

Top Destinations to Visit in Kenya

  • Maasai Mara National Reserve

  • Amboseli National Park

  • Samburu National Reserve

  • Lamu Island

  • Mount Kenya

  • Nairobi & Nairobi National Park

  • Tsavo East & West National Parks

  • Lake Nakuru National Park

  • Diani Beach

  • Hell’s Gate National Park

  • Ol Pejeta Conservancy

  • Mara Triangle

  • Lake Victoria

Conclusion: Plan Your Dream Kenya Trip with Hi2Africa

Kenya is more than just a destination—it's a life-changing experience. Whether you're watching lions hunt in Maasai Mara, climbing Mount Kenya, or dancing with the locals in Lamu, Hi2Africa.com is your trusted travel partner.

Book your tours, accommodations, visa services, and more today. Explore Kenya the smart way — with hi2africa.com.