Discover the Best Experiences to Do in Kenya

Kenya is one of Africa’s most iconic travel destinations, offering a rich mix of wildlife safaris, cultural encounters, scenic landscapes, and outdoor experiences. Whether you’re exploring the Great Rift Valley, experiencing the annual wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara, or discovering the historic Swahili coast, Kenya promises a once-in-a-lifetime holiday.

Use this guide to plan the best things to do in Kenya—from must-see safari destinations and national parks to cultural landmarks and eco-friendly tours.

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Top Wildlife Experiences in Kenya

1. Hot Air Balloon Safari Experience

Experience Kenya from the skies with a hot air balloon safari over the Masai Mara or Amboseli. As the balloon rises at dawn, enjoy panoramic views of the savannah, spotting elephants, giraffes, wildebeest, and lions in their natural habitat.

After the flight, indulge in a gourmet bush breakfast served in the heart of the wilderness. This luxury safari experience combines adventure, scenery, and serenity—perfect for honeymooners, families, or wildlife photographers.

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2. Nairobi National Park Safari – Big Game Viewing Near the City

Nairobi National Park offers an accessible safari experience just minutes from the city centre. It’s the only national park in the world bordering a capital city, where you can see the Big Five—lions, rhinos, buffalo, leopards, and elephants—alongside over 400 bird species.

Ideal for short-stay travellers or those on a layover, this park offers morning and evening game drives with stunning photographic opportunities.

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3. Boat Safaris – Lake Naivasha & Lake Nakuru National Park

At Lake Naivasha, enjoy a peaceful boat safari surrounded by acacia trees, birdlife, and grazing wildlife. Spot hippos, fish eagles, pelicans, and giraffes on the shore.

Nearby Lake Nakuru National Park is famous for its pink flamingo population and black and white rhinos. Game drives in Nakuru also reveal lions, leopards, and waterbucks, making it one of the best parks for birdwatching and big game spotting.

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4. Sheldrick Wildlife Trust – Elephant Orphanage in Nairobi

Visit the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to see rescued baby elephants up close. Located within Nairobi National Park, this world-famous sanctuary rehabilitates orphaned elephants before releasing them back into the wild.

Watch feeding and mud-bath sessions, learn about elephant conservation in Kenya, and support anti-poaching and rewilding initiatives.

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5. Reteti Elephant Sanctuary – Samburu Conservation Experience

Located in northern Kenya, the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is the first indigenous-owned and operated sanctuary in Africa. Visitors can observe feeding routines and learn about the community-led conservation model that protects local wildlife.

Reteti offers a unique opportunity to witness meaningful conservation work while supporting the Samburu people.

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6. Giraffe Centre – Meet Rothschild Giraffes in Nairobi

At the Giraffe Centre in Lang’ata, Nairobi, you can feed and photograph the endangered Rothschild giraffes from an elevated platform. Educational programmes highlight giraffe conservation and offer a fun, interactive experience for visitors of all ages.

The adjacent nature trail provides a peaceful walk through indigenous forest—a great family-friendly activity in Nairobi.

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7. Solio Conservancy – Rhino Tracking in Central Kenya

Solio Conservancy, located between Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Ranges, is one of Africa’s most successful rhino sanctuaries. With one of the highest populations of black and white rhinos, it offers nearly guaranteed sightings.

Enjoy game drives in a private setting, with chances to also see lions, cheetahs, and buffalo. Luxury eco-lodges on-site provide a comfortable and eco-conscious stay.

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Best Cultural and Historical Experiences in Kenya

8. Mombasa Old Town & Fort Jesus Tour

Step into history with a guided Mombasa Old Town tour, where Swahili, Arab, and Portuguese influences are evident in the architecture and market culture. Visit the 16th-century Fort Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Kenya’s Indian Ocean trade history.

Wrap up your tour at the Akamba woodcarvers’ market to see artisans at work and pick up handcrafted souvenirs.

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9. Gedi Ruins & Arabuko Sokoke Forest – Malindi & Watamu Excursion

Explore the mysterious Gedi Ruins, an ancient Swahili town abandoned in the 17th century. Learn about its coral stone mosques, palaces, and advanced water systems.

Next, visit Arabuko Sokoke Forest, a biodiversity hotspot home to rare mammals and over 260 bird species. This excursion combines archaeology and ecology in a single outing.

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10. Coffee and Tea Farm Tours – Nairobi Highlands

Kenya is renowned for producing world-class coffee and tea. Join a farm tour near Nairobi or Limuru to learn how coffee beans and tea leaves are cultivated, processed, and brewed. Enjoy tastings in a beautiful highland setting.

These tours are ideal for those seeking culinary experiences and a deeper connection to Kenyan agriculture.

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11. Kitengela Glass Studio – Recycled Art in Nairobi

Explore the Kitengela Glass Workshop, a creative hub where artisans craft vibrant pieces from recycled glass. Watch the glassblowing process, wander through mosaic-covered gardens, and discover unique sculptures.

Located just outside Nairobi, Kitengela is both a sustainable art project and a hidden gem for cultural travellers.

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Plan Your Kenya Adventure

From thrilling safaris and marine parks to cultural heritage sites and conservation centres, Kenya is a destination that appeals to every type of traveller. Whether you’re looking for luxury lodges, family-friendly experiences, or eco-tourism adventures, Kenya offers a diverse range of attractions.