7 Destinations to Visit in Kenya Beyond a Safari
7 Destinations to Visit in Kenya Beyond a Safari : Beyond the typical safari vacation, Kenya offers a wealth of other things to see and do. This list highlights the top 7 attractions for a unique journey.
Safari, game viewing in one or more of Africa’s iconic national parks or reserves, and opulent tented or class lodge lodging are the first things that come to mind when one thinks about Kenya. There is so much more to learn about Kenya, including practical cultural encounters, historic sites, old ruins, beautiful woods, and distinctive towns.
For those looking just a little more than a breathtaking wildlife experience, Kenya features excursions and experiences that are well worth exploring. Here are a few things to think about.
- Koobi Fora, Turkana
- Gedi Ruins, Malindi
- Fort Jesus, Mombasa
- Lamu Town
- Chyulu Hills National Park and the Leviathan Caves
- Aberdares
- Narok County
- Koobi Fora, Turkana
On the shores of Turkana Lake in the Kenyan Rift Valley, in the East African region of Koobi Fora, archeological and paleontological gems are being discovered. Koobi Fora Ridge, where paleontologists have uncovered interesting fossils including the remains of a hominid dating to about three million years ago, sheds light on the province’s unique history. Many of the fossils on display at the Koobi Fora Museum show that extinct species of crocodile, giraffe, and tortoise were larger than their living counterparts by a factor of four. Additionally, visitors can unwind by the lake, discover old history, and take in stunning sunsets over the water.
- Gedi Ruins, Malindi
Approximately 342 miles from Nairobi, the famed Gedi Ruins can be visited by taking a short flight to Malindi, which is only 30 minutes away from the breathtaking historical monument. The complex shows the bustling community that previously existed along the eastern seaboard from the beginning of the 16th century to as early as the 11th century. Archaeologists have found pottery, beads, coins, and other artifacts that show the kingdom’s rise to affluence as well as signs of rising prosperity up until its abandonment in the surprise abandoned metropolis that emerges from the tropical jungle in a remote area.
- Fort Jesus, Mombasa
A one-hour trip from Nairobi will take you to the wonders of Mombasa, which are on the eastern seaboard. Fort Jesus, a Portuguese colonial building located in the city, is a spectacular example of Renaissance military architecture and is significant to Kenyan history. The panoramic view of the Port of Mombasa set against the five bastions and formidable walls of the building, which embraces a fusion of European, African, and Middle Eastern aesthetics, is its crowning glory. Visitors are immersed in nearly five centuries of history thanks to the fortress’s design, which attests to the exchange of cultural values acquired over time.
- Lamu Town
Explore the rich Swahili culture in Lamu, a historic town. This ancient settlement has a rich history involving slavery, gold, and spices. It is located on Lamu Island, which is close off the coast of Kenya. Visitors are drawn to Lamu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in part because of its historical competition with Mombasa, which is 40 minutes distant by flight, for the title of preferred port off the coast of east Africa up until the late 19th century. Buildings in Lamu have charming wall finishes, doors with inventive designs, and roofs made of mangrove poles. Collectors of authentic apparel and jewelry should visit this village and acquire some Lamu originals.
- Chyulu Hills National Park and the Leviathan Caves
The Chyulu Hills National Park is situated between Amboseli and Tsavo in southeast Kenya. This park is home to the amazing Leviathan Caves, Africa’s longest lava tube and a very breathtaking sight, which are located on the edge of the Nyiri Desert. Explore not just the caves but also the western side of the highlands, where Maasai tribe ranches own the West Chyulu Game Conservation, between January and March and June and September. Awe-inspiring views of Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro with its snow-capped peaks may be seen from upper areas of the Chyulu park. The Ngong Hills were modeled after the Chyulu Hills for the “Out of Africa” film.
- Aberdares
East of the Laikipia plains, in the Great Rift Valley, lies the Aberdare Mountains. They are an isolated volcanic range with two main peaks, Ol Donyo Lesatima and Kinangop, and their slopes are home to deep ravines, crystal-clear streams, and stunning waterfalls. The area is blanketed in mist and rain throughout the year, which feeds the area’s abundant alpine and sub-alpine flora. The sheer drops are stunning. When visiting the Aberdare National Park, visitors have the chance to witness several popular animals including elephants, black rhinoceroses, spotted hyenas, as well as the more elusive leopard, serval cat, and gigantic forest hog. With more than 250 different species, the bird world is aboundant.
- Narok County
Narok County and Narok Town are located west of Nairobi and close to the well-known Maasai Mara National Reserve. The region, which serves as the financial center for south-western Kenya, is a superb illustration of the rich Maasai and Kalenjin cultures and tribes. It is resourceful and contains some undiscovered gems like the Mau Forest, Kenya’s greatest water catchment area and a haven for a wide range of flora and animals as well as countless birds. The Narok Museum showcases the ingenuity of regional artisans with amazing artifacts and works of art in the Maasai language and in the Maa.
