The Best Kenya Tourist Attractions of 2018
The Kenyan tourism industry is thriving. In 2018, Kenya saw double-digit growth in tourism numbers.
And it’s not hard to see why tourists and travelers are flocking to Kenya.
With some of the most spectacular wildlife and nature scenes on the planet, breathtakingly beautiful lakes and buzzing cities, Kenya is becoming one of the most visited countries in Africa.
There are so many great things to do on your trip to Kenya. Keep reading to find out more about the best Kenya tourist attractions of 2018.
1. Maasai Mara
According to CNN Travel, Massai Mara Safari park is “arguably the most astounding wildlife spectacle on earth”. That’s quite a statement. But we totally agree with it!
If you want to experience nature and the wilderness, look no further than Mara. Mara is also the setting for the great migration when up to 2.5 million animals journey from Tanzania to Kenya across the Serengeti.
Here you’ll see herds of zebra, huge giraffes and buffalo drinking from waterholes against the backdrop of the savannah.
2. Lamu Island
Even though it’s only little, the Lamu Island is home to one of the historically richest towns in the country.
With many beautiful houses, incredible ports and holy mosques, this island is protected as a UNESCO heritage site.
3. Amboseli National Park
Amboseli is another safari park. While it might not boast the fame or diversity of wildlife of Mara, it sits at the bottom of Mount Kilimanjaro. This snowy mountain is the highest on the African continent.
It also has the largest elephant herds in Kenya. So you can see our big-eared friends, along with cheetahs, giraffes, and wildebeests.
4. Nairobi
If the hustle and bustle of the city is more your thing, then head to Nairobi. The capital of Kenya won’t win any prizes for beauty but there’s a hidden charm to it.
With growing population of 4 million strong, the city has plenty of exciting activity. From the best nightlife, Kenya has to offer to some of the freshest and most delicious food, Nairobi is a must-visit for any tourist in Kenya.
5. Hell’s Gate National Park
Hell’s Gate National Park is situated between Nairobi and Nakura, a small town, in the south of the country.
With its unmissable rock formations, huge canyons and deep valleys, Hell’s Gate was the inspiration for Disney’s The Lion King.
6. Tsavo East National Park
Tsavo East National Park is one of the largest and oldest national parks in the whole of Africa.
The Athi River flows through the beautiful landscape of the Chyulu Hills and savannah grasslands.
You’ll find mongooses and cheetahs in this outstanding national park.
7. Mombasa
The city of Mombasa is one of the top Kenya tourist attractions. Despite its colonial history of both Arabic and Portuguese rulers, it’s Swahili origins are very much still present.
Check out the European-style old town, sample the mouthwatering curries and the joy and excitement of the port.
8. Malindi Beach
After you’ve escaped the city, make your way to Malinda for some of the most beautiful beaches around. With warm sea water and the whitest sands.
But make sure you get down to Malinda beach early, because it’s one of the most popular choices among tourists.
Don’t forget to visit the monuments of the famous Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama Pillar.
9. Samburu National Reserve
Far away from the coast, at the heart of Kenya is the Samburu National Reserve. Get inspired by the acacia trees and the world-class wildlife.
You’ll find a huge variety of biodiversity here, with everything from lions to gazelles to crocodiles to baboons.
10. Lake Nakuru
Lake Nakuru is at the center of the national park of its namesake. The Lake Nakura rises over the Great Rift Valley and everything that surrounds it. You’ll also find some spectacular views from Baboon Cliff.
But what makes it special is the variety of birds. Most famously, this where you’ll find the flamingos glowing with their pink feathers. But the park also is home to black rhinos and baboons.
11. Laikipia District
One of the most popular destinations for Kenya tourist attractions.
Despite not being as dramatically beautiful as many national parks and reserves in the area, it is a hot spot for many ecotourists.
It’s miles and miles of unspoiled wildlife and nature!
12. Lake Naivasha
Situated below the red rocks of Hell’s Gate National Park, Lake Naivasha is famous as a habitat for birds.
Visit Lake Naivasha for your chance to see bearded vultures, ospreys, hawks, and eagles.
13. Kisumu
With excellent connections to many of the most important ports of Kenya, Kisumu was once a thriving harbor. While things have changed since its glory days, there is a growing sense of a revival in the town.
With some proud history and culture and some beautiful natural attractions, such as Dunga Beach.
14. Nyeri
This lively town is the entrance to the Kenyan Highlands. Nyeri is a great place for people watching with people zooming past on scooters and traditional markets with local shoppers.
However, there’s more than just people watching in Nyeri. On the edge of the Aberdare Mountains, there is also plenty of wildlife in the region.
15. Marsabit
Bordering the deserts of the North of Kenya, Marsabit has surprisingly become one of the top Kenya tourist attractions among eco and ethical tourists.
There are a number of humanitarian and volunteer projects in the region that range from providing clean water to conservation efforts.
If you want to get an insight into the reality of life in Kenya for many local people, Marsabit is definitely the place to visit.
Kenya Tourist Attractions
With so many wonderful and magical places to visit and things to see, Kenya is truly an amazing place to be a tourist in 2018.
From the opportunity to see some of the most incredible wildlife you’ve ever seen with own eyes, to the chance to visit the thriving city of Nairobi, visit Kenya today!
If you’re interested in a trip to visit some of the best Kenya tourist attractions, get in touch with us today!