Things to Do in Kenya

Things to Do in Kenya: The Ultimate Guide to Kenya’s Top Attractions and Experiences

Kenya is one of Africa’s most exciting destinations, offering world-class wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and stunning coastlines. Whether you’re planning a safari, beach holiday, cultural tour, or adventure trip, Kenya delivers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

If you’re planning an East African safari, you can explore both Kenya and neighboring gorilla destinations with Monumental Expeditions and Safaris

Below are the top things to do in Kenya, perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.

1. Experience a Safari in Maasai Mara National Reserve

Maasai mara

The Maasai Mara is Kenya’s most famous safari destination and home to some of Africa’s densest wildlife ecosystems.
It is renowned for:

The Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino)
The Great Wildebeest Migration (July–October)
Hot air balloon safaris
Predator sightings
Stunning savannah landscapes

A safari here is bucket-list material and a must-do for wildlife lovers.

2. Witness the Great Migration

Wildebeest Migration Safari

Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles thunder across the plains between the Serengeti (Tanzania) and Maasai Mara (Kenya). Watching river crossings at the Mara River is one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on Earth.

If you’re planning a Great Migration safari, Monumental Expeditions and Safaris offers guided itineraries throughout East Africa

3. Relax on Kenya’s Incredible Beaches

Kenya’s coastline along the Indian Ocean features pristine white-sand beaches perfect for relaxation, swimming, and water sports.

Top beach destinations include:

• Diani Beach

Voted Africa’s best beach multiple times.

• Watamu

Known for coral reefs and marine life.

• Malindi

A vibrant coastal town with Italian influence.

• Lamu Island

A quiet, historical destination with Swahili culture.

Expect crystal-clear waters, snorkeling, dhow sailing, kite surfing, and tropical sunsets.

4. Explore Nairobi’s Urban Attractions

Kenya’s bustling capital offers a surprising mix of wildlife, culture, food, and nightlife.

Top things to do in Nairobi include:

Nairobi National Park – wildlife viewing minutes from the city
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust – orphaned baby elephants
Giraffe Centre – close encounters with endangered Rothschild giraffes
Karen Blixen Museum – home of “Out of Africa”
Nairobi National Museum
Kazuri Beads Women’s Cooperative

Nairobi is an excellent starting point for any Kenyan adventure.

5. Visit Amboseli National Park – Home of Elephants

Amboseli is famous for its large elephant herds and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak.

Highlights include:

Huge herds of elephants
Photographer-friendly landscapes
Birdwatching
Maasai village cultural visits
Stunning sunrise and sunset views

Amboseli is a must for wildlife photographers.

6. Explore Tsavo East & Tsavo West National Parks

Together, Tsavo East and Tsavo West make up one of the largest protected ecosystems in Africa.

What to expect:

Red-dust elephants
Beautiful volcanic landscapes
Mzima Springs
Lava fields and caves
Fewer crowds compared to Maasai Mara

This is an ideal safari destination for visitors seeking raw wilderness.

7. Experience Lake Nakuru and Its Flamingos

5 Fascinating Facts About Flamingos (Phoenicopteridae)

Lake Nakuru National Park is known for:

Millions of flamingos (seasonal)
White rhinos and black rhinos
Waterfalls and forested hills
Spectacular lake views

It’s one of Kenya’s best destinations for bird lovers.

8. Discover Mount Kenya – Hiking & Adventure

Mount Kenya

Mount Kenya is Africa’s second-highest mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Activities include:

Multi-day trekking to Point Lenana (5,199 m)
Rock climbing
Forest walks
Birdwatching
Scenic photography

It’s a challenging but rewarding adventure for hikers.

9. Explore Samburu National Reserve

Located in northern Kenya, Samburu is known for unique wildlife not seen elsewhere in the country.

Look out for the Samburu Special Five:

Grevy’s zebra
Somali ostrich
Reticulated giraffe
Gerenuk
Beisa oryx

The culture of the Samburu people also adds to the experience.

10. Visit Lamu Old Town – A Swahili Cultural Jewel

Lamu is one of Africa’s oldest and best-preserved Swahili towns.

Top activities include:

Walking the narrow streets
Visiting historical mosques and museums
Riding traditional dhows
Relaxing on Shela Beach
Exploring local markets

Lamu offers a peaceful retreat away from busy tourist centers.

11. Discover Hell’s Gate National Park

Hell’s Gate is unique because you can explore it on foot or by bicycle.
Expect:

Towering cliffs
Hot springs
Narrow gorges
Wildlife such as zebras, gazelles, and baboons

It’s also the inspiration behind Disney’s “The Lion King” landscapes.

Nearby Lake Naivasha offers boat rides and hippo viewing.

12. Take a Cultural Tour with Kenya’s Indigenous Communities

Kenya is home to over 40 ethnic groups, each with unique traditions.

Cultural experiences include:

Maasai village visits
Samburu cultural tours
Swahili traditions along the coast
Pokot and Turkana communities in the north
Traditional music, dance, and crafts

These tours support community conservation efforts and preserve heritage.

13. Visit Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Located in Laikipia, Ol Pejeta is known for:

The last two northern white rhinos
Chimpanzee sanctuary
Big Five wildlife
High-level conservation projects

It’s an excellent destination for families and conservation enthusiasts.

14. Explore Aberdare National Park

A high-altitude park full of forests, waterfalls, and cool climates.

Popular activities include:

Forest trekking
Birdwatching
Waterfall hikes
Viewing giant forest hogs, elephants, and buffalo

It’s a refreshing escape from Kenya’s warmer lowlands.

15. Enjoy Marine Safaris in Watamu & Kisite-Mpunguti

Kenya is not just about land safaris—its marine parks are equally spectacular.

Expect to see:

Dolphins
Turtles
Coral reefs
Colorful fish
Snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities

A glass-bottom boat trip in Watamu or Kisite-Mpunguti is perfect for families and marine lovers.

Plan Your Kenya Trip with Monumental Expeditions and Safaris

Whether you want a Kenya safari, a beach holiday, or a combined East Africa adventure including gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda, Monumental Expeditions and Safaris offers well-planned, customizable packages.

Final Thoughts: Why Visit Kenya?

Kenya is one of Africa’s most diverse and exciting destinations. From world-class wildlife and ancient cultures to tropical beaches and mountain adventures, this country caters to every kind of traveler.

If you’re planning to explore Kenya or combine it with gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, Congo, or Gabon, reach out to the experts at Monumental Expeditions and Safaris