Kenya: The Land of the Safari and Adventure

When you think of a vacation in Africa, one of the first things that comes to mind is a safari adventure – and the best country to do that in is Kenya. There are so many ways to see the beauty and majesty of this country that you’ll want to return to this country over and over again. Here are just a few places that should be at the top of your list when you visit:

Masai Mara National Reserve. Masai Mara is probably the most popular safari destinations in the world. Here, you can see the “Big Five” animals that Africa is known for - the African elephant, lion, leopard, Cape buffalo, and rhinoceros – as well as wildebeest, giraffes, zebras, ostriches and many more. One of the most spectacular things to see at Masai Mara is the Great Migration, as thousands upon thousands of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle make their trek from the Serengeti in neighboring Tanzania across the Mara River into Kenya in July/August and return to their home in October.

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Amboseli National Park.  With a backdrop of Africa’s most iconic mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park is one of Kenya’s best safari parks. Home to over 1000 elephants, it’s the best-known free-ranging elephant population in the world. A UNESCO biosphere reserve, you’ll find over 400 bird species, lions, zebras, crocodiles, mongoose and more. Enjoy the spectacular views along the savannahs and up Kilimanjaro.

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Mombasa. After spending time on safari, take in some Kenyan culture in Mombasa. Spend time exploring the history of the city, with visits to the 16th century Fort Jesus or explore Old Town where you will get a taste of the melting pot of Arab, Asian and European cultures in this coastal city. Relax on one of its beautiful beaches. Go scuba diving or snorkeling at Mombasa Marine National Park. Or take a trip to Wasini Island for a look at the ancient Swahili villages and explore the Shimoni Caves.

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Nairobi. Of course any trip to Kenya should include a stop in its capital, Nairobi. While there, visit the Bomas of Kenya where you can see replicas of traditional homesteads, or bomas, from 23 of Kenya’s ethnic groups and learn more about the culture of Kenya. If you want to see giraffes up close and personal, make sure you visit Giraffe Manor and the Giraffe Center, a nature sanctuary for giraffes. Don’t miss the Kazuri Bead Factory on the Karen Blixen Estate (of “Out of Africa”) where beads and pottery are made by over 300 mostly single women as a way to help them be self-sufficient.

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Lamu Island. If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, spend some time on Lamu Island. Explore Old Town Lamu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can see the influences of Arabic and European cultures. Discover the beautiful marketplace in Shela Village. Check out the coral-stone ruins of the 17th century City of Takwa. Or just walk the idyllic sandy beaches and take in the spectacular view.

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There are so many more national parks and historic and cultural things to see and do in Kenya. Why not start planning your trip now? Luxury Destinations Concierge is ready to help. Give us a call at (805) 236-4437.