Kenya has long been known as a popular safari destination, but that isn’t its only draw. Read on to learn more about what you can do on a trip to Kenya.
But before we jump into the experiences, let’s start with some basic facts. Kenya is located in East Africa, along the equator. It is a little smaller than the state of Texas. Kenya is home to 43.5 million people.
Nairobi, the capital city, is also the largest in the country. Kenya is named after Mt. Kenya, the tallest mountain in the country and the second tallest in Africa. Kenya has two official languages: English and Swahili.
1. Go on a safari
Kenya has a reputation as the quintessential safari destination. There are few places on Earth where you can witness the Big Five (lions, buffalos, elephants, leopards, and rhinos) in the wilderness.
With an abundance of national parks, including the Chyulu Hills National Park and the Maasai Mara National Reserve, you will be treated to an incredibly beautiful experience in the savanna grasslands. Witness majestic animals, unique plants, and the most picturesque views while on your safari adventure.
If timing allows, you can also see the spectacular wildebeest migration, where two million wildebeests migrate in search of water and greener pastures.
2. Visit a Maasai Mara Village
Kenya is home to many indigenous tribes, including the Maasai tribe. The Maasai are well known for their unique culture and tribal dress. It is widely believed the Maasai people originated in the Nile Valley in the 15th century before migrating to their current home in Kenya. This semi-nomadic tribe is known for their hunting skills, their high-spirited dancing, and their vibrant clothing.
Fun fact: in the Maasai tribe, a man who can jump higher than his peers is considered more masculine and, therefore, more attractive to young women.
The Maasai shield is a traditional symbol in Kenya that is used to symbolize the defense of the country. The shield is depicted on the flag of Kenya.
3. Explore the savanna
The African savanna is an environment unlike any other on Earth. The region is characterized by its rolling expanses of grasslands, patches of dense brush, and the few, lonesome trees dotting the horizon.
The savanna encompasses almost 50% or about 5 million square miles of land in Africa. The plants in this area are all uniquely adapted to their often inhospitable conditions and can thrive during long periods of drought. Because the savanna is so rich in plants and nutrients, many large herds live in the tropical grasslands, including zebras, elephants, giraffes, and gazelles.
4. Meet members of the Samburu Tribe
The Samburu people are some of the friendliest in Kenya. Originally a nomadic tribe, the Samburu today are still semi-nomadic and have not strayed far from the traditions and customs of the past.
Dancing is a significant part of Samburu culture. They love to sing and dance but traditionally use no instruments. They also have dances for various occasions of life.
The men dance jumping and high jumping from a standing position. Most dances involve the men and the women dancing in their separate circles. However, they come together for occasions such as wedding ceremonies.
5. View (or climb) Mt. Kilimanjaro
Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in both Tanzania and Africa, is just as impressive as you would imagine. Kilimanjaro is considered the tallest freestanding mountain in the world, rising 15,100 ft. from base to summit.
The mountain is characterized by picture-perfect forest trails that lead into rocky and moon-like landscapes before giving way to snowy glacial views. There are several trails for hikers attempting this climb, and range from six to eight days.
6. View millions of flamingos
There are few places in the world where you can witness 1.5 million flamingos in their natural habitat. Lake Nakuru in Kenya is a world-famous location for viewing one of the greatest bird spectacles on Earth. The myriad of bright pink flamingos feed on the abundant algae in the lake, which thrives in the warm waters.
Ready to start planning your extraordinary trip to Kenya?
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