Kenya General Information

Kenya is regarded by many as the ‘Jewel of East Africa', and has some of the continent's finest beaches, most magnificent wildlife and scenery, and an incredibly sophisticated tourism infrastructure. It is a startlingly beautiful land, from the coral reefs and white sand beaches of the coast to the summit of Mount Kenya, crowned with clouds and be jeweled by strange giant alpine plants.

Between these two extremes is the acacia-studded rolling savannah, which is home to game parks such as Amboseli, the Masai Mara, Samburu and Tsavo; the lush, agricultural highlands with their sleek green coat of coffee and tea plantations; and the most spectacular stretch of the Great Rift Valley, the giant scar across the face of Africa.

Kenya is a place for safaris, and one-tenth of all land in Kenya is designated as National Parks and Game Reserves. Just about every African plains animal is present. Over 50 Parks and Reserves cover all habitats from desert to mountain forest, including six marine parks in the Indian Ocean.

Cultural Background

Kenya has a fascinatingly diverse population with around 40 different tribes, all with their own languages and cultures. Major tribes include the Kikuyu, the Luhyia and the Luo, but the most famous are the tall, proud, beautiful red-clad Masai, who still lead a traditional semi-nomadic lifestyle of cattle-herding along the southern border.

A mixture of African and Arabic, the unique Swahili culture can be found along the balmy coast, where for centuries it became prosperous on the profits of commerce from the trade winds that carried ocean-going dhows (sailing boats) across the Indian Ocean to Arabia and Persia.

Modern Nairobi is still the safari capital of Africa, but the modern world has quickly caught up with the city. A frontier town no more, Nairobi has become one of Africa’s largest, and most interesting cities. Nairobi is a city that never seems to sleep.

Kenya’s capital city has risen in a single century from a brackish uninhabited swampland to a thriving modern capital. When railway construction workers reached this area in 1899, they set up a basic camp and supply depot, simply called ‘Mile 327’.

The local Maasai called this highland swamp Ewaso Nai’beri – the place of cold water. The camp became a rustic village, and then a shanty town, which by 1907 was the capital of all of British East Africa. It was soon an important centre for the colony and a mecca for adventurers, hunters and travellers from all over the world.

The entire town has a boundless energy, and is thriving place where all of human life can be found. This is a place of great contrasts where race, tribe and origin all become facets of a unique Nairobi character. The city has not lost its sense of the past, with an excellent museum and the historical home of Karen Blixen, author of Out of Africa open to visitors.

This is a modern capital separated from the great wilderness that surrounds it. Just outside the city is Nairobi National Park, 113 sq kms of plains, cliffs and forest. The park is home to large herds of Zebra, Wildebeest, Buffalo, Giraffe and more. Rhino, Cheetah, and a large number of Lions are all found here, living wild within 20 minutes of the centre of town. Further out of town, the spectacular 27 metre deep 'Fourteen Falls' waterfalls at Thika are perfect for a scenic day trip. Nearby Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park, is centred around an imposing 2,146 metre mountain. For the adventurous, take an hour's drive from town and you will find white water rafting on the beautiful Tana River.

From the wildlife to the nightlife, Nairobi is a city unlike any other. With a fantastic music scene, excellent international restaurants and an endless and colourful array of shops and markets, there is plenty on offer for the visitor.

Nairobi is Kenya’s capital, and the arrival point for many visitors. The main airport is Jomo Kenyatta International, located 15kms out of the centre of town. JKIA handles both International and domestic carriers. Wilson airport, located 11 kms outside of the city centre, is the domestic hub for both scheduled and chartered domestic air traffic.

There are countless Matatu stands throughout Nairobi, with continuous arrivals and departures throughout the day. Nairobi is the centre of Kenya's extensive bus network, with many bus companies operating to and from destinations throughout the country. Walking around Nairobi is relatively straightforward, as the city centre is small and accessible. In some areas, there can be a security risk while walking, and it is best to seek local advice before setting out. Taxis are widely available, and convenient. Taxis are often parked in the street around hotels and tourist areas of the city. Hotels and restaurants can order taxis if necessary. Nairobi Taxis are usually marked with a yellow line along each side. Taxis are not metered, and a price should be agreed with the driver before departure. Ask for local advice or at your hotel for correct rates. There are several companies operating Dial Taxi services with phone bookings, modern vehicles, competent drivers and reasonable rates. Several Taxi companies have airport booking offices. Buses operate on set routes throughout the city. The large Kenya Buses run on routes throughout the city on regular schedules. Buses can be boarded at any stop and tickets purchased on board. Matatus (Public Minibuses) also operate on city routes throughout the day, and are the most popular form of local public transport.

Nairobi City Tour

Take a trip and enjoy the vast city of Nairobi. The tour consists of a visit to the colorful City Market, Parliament Buildings and the Kenyatta Conference Centre. Clients also visit the National Museum and gaze upon the historical artifacts and the famous Homo Sapien. The tour finishes with a visit to the Snake Park.

National Museum and Snake Park

Nairobi National Museum is located at the Museum Hill, approximately 10 minutes drive from the Nairobi city centre. It is the flagship museum of National Museum of Kenya, housing some of the most celebrated collections of history, culture and art from Kenya and East Africa.

Nairobi National Park and Nairobi Safari Walk

Nairobi National Park is a unique Park as it is the only protected area situated close to a capital city. The Safari Walk is an interesting place to visit while you are the National Park. It is vibrant with unique plants and animals and visitors do not only enjoy the leisure walk but also learn about the resources and how to conserve them. The Nairobi Animal Orphanage is located near the National Park and is home to many orphaned animals that have been rescued and brought from various areas around the country.

The Carnivore

The Carnivore, famous for its succulent steaks and mouth watering barbeque dishes has been described as the ‘meat eater’s paradise’. Also available is a variety of vegetarian dishes.

Karen Blixen Museum and the Giraffe Centre

Karen Blixen Museum is located on the outskirts of Nairobi on Karen road. Its history dates back to 1914, during the First World War, with the arrival of Karen Blixen from Denmark. A striking feature about Karen Blixen Museum is the beautiful grounds. The house built in 1910 has a red tile roof and mellow wood paneling in the rooms. Take a drive towards the Ngong Hills, to the Karen Blixen Museum – to the house which for many years was her home. Thereafter driving to the Giraffe Manor where the famous Rothschild Giraffe – Daisy can be fed.

Bomas of Kenya

Bomas of Kenya is a tourist village in Lang’ata, Nairobi. Bomas (homesteads) displays traditional villages belonging to the several Kenyan tribes. Here you can acquire insight into the traditional way of life. The African dancing covers events that occur in the lives of different tribes.

Daphne Sheldrick’s Elephant Orphanage

Daphne Sheldrick’s Elephant Orphanage is located in Nairobi Game Park. It was originally started by David Sheldrick and the work was taken over by his wife after his death. The Park itself is too small to sustain any adult elephants, but they take in orphaned baby elephants from all over Kenya. You can visit between 11 am and 12 noon and watch the elephants being fed and playing. You will also have a chance to talk to the keepers of the elephants.

The Kenya Coast is one of Kenya’s main attractions. It offers a combination of historical sites, superb beaches and coral reefs – once described by Ernest Hemingway as ‘completely unmatched in the world’. The Kenyan Coast can be divided into four main regions: the Town and Port of Mombasa; the South Coast stretching from Mombasa to the Tanzania border; the North Coast covering the beaches from Mombasa to Kilifi and finally Watamu, Malindi, and the Lamu archipelago.

Select Destinations from the Coast

MOMBASA

Mombasa town is Kenya’s second largest town and main port. Its history stretches back nearly 2,000 years, including periods of colonization by Portuguese, Arabs, and the British. The town of Mombasa is on a small island, and is a cosmopolitan blend of African, Arabic, Asian, and European cultures. The old town of Mombasa is fascinating and worth exploring for its maze of narrow streets.

KILIFI

Kilifi is a town on the Kenyan coast, home to many resorts. It lies on the Kilifi Creek between Malindi and Mombasa. In the old days, the only way to access Kilifi was by ferry but a recently constructed bridge makes it more accessible. The town is known for its beach and for the ruins of Mnarani, including mosques and tombs, dating from the fourteenth to the seventeenth century.

NORTH COAST

Linked to Mombasa by Nyali Bridge, the north coast is easily accessible from Mombasa Island and offers long stretches of idyllic beaches fringed by swaying palm trees. Evening entertainment abounds both in resort and in the wide selection of bars and restaurants. The north coast resorts are ideal for those who would like to combine the tranquility of their resort and also for those who wish to stay in resorts a short journey from the airport and Mombasa Island.

SOUTH COAST

The south coast is approximately an hour’s journey from the airport and requires a ferry crossing. The journey is well worth it as the South Coast beaches are amongst Kenya’s finest. The majority of the resort development is on Diani Beach, a 10 km stretch of talcum white sands lapped by crystal clear waters of the ocean. Around Diani Beach, there are some development of shopping centers, bars and restaurants.

MALINDI

Situated just north of Watamu, Malindi was an important Swahili settlement in the 14th century and later became the center for Portuguese operations on East African coast. Malindi is now a popular resort town with good snorkeling, diving and deep sea fishing.

WATAMU

Watamu has an exceptional shoreline and features the Watamu Marine National Park close by. The coral reefs fringing Kenya’s coastline harbor an abundance of colorful marine life, and ensure safe swimming in the glorious waters of the Indian Ocean. A full range of water sports is available from most resorts on the coast, although Watamu is renowned for its superb diving and deep sea fishing.

Excursions from Mombasa

Half day tour to Fort Jesus / And or Dinner at Tamarind Dhow

You will begin your tour with a visit to the Akamba Wood Carving Factory. This will then be followed by a visit to one of Mombasa's most attractive Hindu Temple. During your entire tour the guide will reveal many visible aspects of Mombasa's rich history including the elephants tusks found in the city (these are made from metal and not ivory), the town's aromatic scented spice shops and the stalls at the Old Mackinnon Market and the Portuguese Castle – Fort Jesus. Thereafter embark on another adventure to the old Arab Quarter, home to a historic Dhow port which invokes images of a seafaring adventure of a bygone era.

Tamarind Dhow Dinner

You will be picked up and transferred to the jetty. Prepare to have a delightful evening cruising on the creek on a romantic dhow, whilst enjoying cocktails, seafood dinner and dancing to a bongo band. Return to your hotel after dinner.

Excursions from Malindi

Malindi Tour

Depart from Hotel/location and transferred 125 km to Malindi north of Mombasa Island. This pleasant town still upholds the atmosphere of a Swahili fishing village. On the way to Malindi you will visit the enchanted Gedi ruins, an ancient ruined city that was mysteriously deserted in the 17th century. You will also visit the colorful coral gardens in a glass bottomed boat and admire the variety of tropical fish (please remember to take a swim suit and tough soled beach shoes).

Excursions from Watamu

Gedi Ruins

Gedi Ruins mystery begins when a vast population disappeared without a trace in the 17th Century. There have been no historic writings or local recordings in history. Many tales have been said about the Gedi but it still continues to baffle many historians. Visit these enchanting ruins with a guide and get a feel of life that was many years before.

Malindi / Watamu Parks & Reserves

Watamu National Park is part of a complex of marine and tidal habitats on Kenya's North coast stretching from Malindi town to beyond the entrance to Mida creek.
Access is via tarmac road from Mombasa or Malindi.
The Park was designated as a Biosphere Reserve in 1979.

Attractions
Coral reefs, Fish, and other marine life. Insects/arthropods: Crabs Vegetation:Mida creek has important mangrove forests with a high diversity of species

Accommodation Facilities
Accommodation can be found in the surrounding areas of Malindi and Watamu which is about 30 minutes to 1 hour drive from the Park depending on designated location.

Kisite Marine National Park

Kisite Island is a small waterless coral island, 8 km offshore in the Marine Park.
Area: 11 sq km. Distance: 40 kms from Mombasa via Diani & Kwale

Attractions and Activities
Coral Gardens Snorkelling, Diving, Bird watching Kisite is flat and treeless, covered in low grass and herbs. Sea grasses cover a large area of the sub-littoral zone of the reef.

Mpunguti Marine National Reserve

Mpunguti reserve covers a marine area with four small islands surrounded by coral-reef.
Area: 28 sq km. Distance 40 kms from Mombasa via Diani & Kwale

Attractions
Coral Gardens Snorkelling, Diving, Bird watching Mpunguti Islands have dense coastal equatorial forest.

Accommodation Facilities
Accommodation can be found in Diani or Mombasa Island which is about 1 hour - 11/2 hours from the Park.

Wasini Island Excursion

Dive into a magical world and enjoy snorkeling on the southern coast and a relaxing day on the tropical Island. After breakfast you will take a tour to Shimoni "the place of the caves", and take a dhow to the beautiful Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park, which offers some of the best snorkeling in Kenya. Thereafter visit Wasini Island and sample fantastic fresh sea food lunch served in a traditionally styled coastal restaurant. In the early evening return by Dhow to the Shimoni jetty and transferred back to hotel.

Safaris by Air

Distances in Kenya can be long and flying is a quick and expedient way to hop between the prime game viewing areas. This is a good alternative for those with limited time or who want to maximize their gaming options. On some itineraries, part of the safaris is by air, which reduces the traveling time between parks. Flights are done by light air craft which use airstrips. Baggage allowance is 15 kg per person. The camp or lodge will offer transfers and game drives.

Ballooning Safaris

Ballooning can be arranged in the Masai Mara and the Serengeti in Tanzania. Early morning balloon rides, approximately one hour, over the Masai Mara provide a wonderful view of the wilderness area. Upon landing, the crew sets up a champagne breakfast. Optional balloon trips take the place of the morning game drive. The duration and direction of the trip is dependent on prevailing weather conditions. Children under the age of 12 are not permitted and height restrictions apply.

Safaris by Camel

Also known as the ‘Ship of the Desert’ the camel offers a great vantage point for viewing nature. Accompanied by Samburu warrior guides, the excursion is through North and Central Kenya. Support vehicle carry luggage, tents and supplies. Camel safaris can also be arranged through arid plains of Tsavo National Park

Safaris on Foot

For walkers and trekkers, some Game Reserves and National Parks in Central, Western and North Eastern regions offer the opportunity of walking safaris which are a thrilling experience. For those ambitious, treks and climbs can be arranged on Mount Kenya, Mount Elgon and the Aberdares

Bird Watching

Kenya is home to approximately 1300 different species of birds, more than any other country on the African continent. The Rift Valley supports large populations of birds including raptors such as the Fish Eagle. The alkaline lakes attract greater and lesser flamingoes and white pelicans, herons, fish eagles, spoonbills, ibises. From December to March the migrants from Europe arrive.

Horse Riding Safaris

This conventional style safari is growing in popularity. This can be enjoyed in the hills of the Masai Mara spending nights in canvas tents.

Adventure and Sporting safaris

For those who enjoy the adrenalin pump a variety of sports like Kayaking, Bungee jumping, and White water rafting amongst others are available.