OVERVIEW
Known for its incredible landscapes that home an abundant of wildlife, Kenya serves as one of the top destinations to see the Big 5 Game, with the likes of Hells Gate National Park being one of the best places for incredible safari game drives.
Beaches
As well as intrepid safari adventures, Kenya also features a collection of idyllic beaches. Diani Beach, located south of Mombasa, overlooks he tranquil Indian Ocean. Here you can find luxury villas, cottages, hotels, air safaris, restaurants, shopping areas, golf courses and of course, amazing diving and snorkeling sites.
Culture
There are plenty of cultural points to explore in Kenya, such as the ruins of Gedi, remains of the Swahili Town dates back 13/14th to the 17th century. Located on Banda Street lies Jamia Mosque, one of Kenya’s most famed religious structures and is one of the most important mosques in the country.
Island Hopping
Island hopping is also a great opportunity to explore even further than the mainland. Mombasa Island serves as Kenya’s second largest city and is a major port in Kenya and East Africa. Here you can enjoy the pristine shores that look out to the glistening lagoon while sampling the lively restaurants located beachside and in and around town. Try anything from tradition grilled Kenyan delicacies, Ocean front seafood eateries and International cuisines.
Fort Jesus, located on the island, was built in 1953 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site in which you can explore its colonial history.
Mombasa Marine National Park and Reserve is set between Mtwapa and Tudor Creeks and its azure crystal waters are the perfect place for wind surfing, water skiing and diving. Many colourful marine species call this park home such as crabs, starfish, stone fish, cucumber sea urchin, coral turtle, sea grasses and an abundant of bird species.
National Parks and Reserves
There are a plethora of Parks and Reserves to choose from when looking for your perfect safari adventure. Nairobi National Park presents 100 mammal species including the buffalo, giraffe, lion, leopard, baboon, zebra, wildebeest and cheetahs. As well as a variety of mammals, this park homes 400 migratory bird species. Naironi National Park is the closest park to the city and features walking trails at hippo pools, an Ivory burning site monument, an orphanage and plenty of space for picnics.
Shimba Hills National Reserve homes the endangered Sable Antelope as well as elephants, giraffe, leopard, genet, civet cat, hyenas, waterbuck, bush pig, buffalo, African bush baby, sykes money, black and red shrew, vervet monkey and many more. Its forests are very important to the reserve, blessed with an abundant of birdlife from the red-necked Spur fowl, Croaking Cristicola and the Zanzibar Red Bishop. Main attractions in the reserve include many incredible viewpoints across the parks, Sheldrick Falls and the elephant habitat.
Hells Gate National Park is named due to its boundaries to the quarter of the Great Rift Valley. Expect amazing sceneries from rugged cliffs, shrub clad volcanoes, geothermal streams and water gorges. Incredible wildlife at Hells Gate National Park include the African buffalo, zebra, eland, hartebeest, Thomson’s gazelle, baboons, killspringer antelope and Chandler’s mountain reedbuck. There are also over 100 species of birdlife including eagles and augur buzzard. Park attractions include hot springs, tourist circuits, nature trails, the Mervyn Canelley Raptor Hide and a health spa.
What is the language in Kenya?
The official languages spoken in Kenya are Swahili and English.
What is the currency in Kenya?
The currency in Kenya is the Kenyan shilling.
How long does it take to fly to Kenya?
From London to Mombasa or Nairobi on a direct flight can take approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes.
What is the time difference in Kenya?
Kenya is 2 hours ahead of the UK.
When is the best time to travel to Kenya?
The best wildlife viewing months in Kenya are from late June to October. The great migration reaches Masai Mara in July and remains until October when its moved to Serengeti in Tanzania.
Do I need a visa for Kenya?
Yes. You will need a visa to enter Kenya, you can obtain this before you travel or on arrival at the airport. For up to date travel advice please visit this FCO website link.
