This article dives deep into 10 Magical Places to Visit in Kenya. Every year, thousands of tourists visit Kenya but very few get to enjoy their trips. Very few know hidden gems to explore apart from the wild safaris in the Masai Mara, Amboseli or Samburu.
In this blog, we will explore all the Best places to Visit in Kenya. In case you need help planning for your Kenyan tour be it a beach vacation, wild safari, or a city tour, reach out to us (Zunguka Safaris) through our Inquiry Page. We will be more than happy to serve you!
In no particular order, here is a list of Kenya Places to Visit that should be on your bucket list!
Diani White Sand Beach is arguably one of the Best Beaches in Kenya to visit. It has been voted severally as Africa’s best coastline and beach. Amazing, right?
The white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters are the first thing you will notice once you get at the Diani Beach. You will also notice the lush greenery aided by palm trees. The waters are ideal for swimming among other water activities.
Beside water sports, this is also ideal if you are looking for Kenya honeymoon destinations that are luxurious and have boutique hotels and villas.
Pro tip: If you are a nightlife person, Diani Beach has some of the best beachfront bars and café.
Looking for where to go in Kenya? somewhere to see wildlife and experience wild moments? you should highly consider the Masai Mara. It is located in the southwestern part of Kenya and borders Tanzania.
This prominent national park is known for its Wildebeest Migration from Tanzania to Kenya, which people go to watch during specific times of the year. Apart from the wildebeests, this park is also one of the few parks with all the big five Kenya, which are Lions, Elephants, Buffalos, Rhinos and Leopards.
The best part is you get to also experience scenic views if you decide to stay in their camping facilities and go for the morning and evening scenic drives. Make sure try the balloon safari at Masai Mara.
Being the second highest peak in Africa and the highest in Kenya, Mount Kenya is one of the top tourist attractions in Kenya.
This breathtaking destination is suitable for tourists and locals who love hiking as its peak is 5,199m and you can find glaciers on the mountain.
Apart from hiking, Mount Kenya National Park, located in the vicinity, is also a great place to explore especially for game drives, scenic views of the mountain, watching the rivers and falls, camping and exploring the caves.
If you decide to go hiking, you will notice different vegetation as you go up because of the difference in temperature. Interesting, right?
Fun fact: Mount Kenya is considered a holy place by some Kenyan tribes and they pray facing the mountain.
Known as the only national park in the city, Nairobi National park is located in Nairobi and in close proximity to the city center.
If you are a tourist or a local, this place is ideal to visit as it is located near civilization and it’s a convenient location if your aim is wildlife observation and engage in ranger-led activities.
During park drives, you will be able to spot antelopes, leopards, rhinos and lions and some you will see up-close. As for birdwatchers, you can spot very many species of birds especially seasonal birds that come to nest.
This should be on your bucket list if you do not want to miss the chance to see over 100 different species of mammals and several amphibians.
Read more about Nairobi national park here: Nairobi National Park Tours
Lamu Island is located on the southeastern part of Kenya and is one of the those fun and magical places to visit in Kenya
This Island is ideal if you want to learn the Swahili culture and their cuisine. Apart from the culture and food, it is one of the Islands in Kenya with crystal clear waters and has several water sorts like snorkeling, kayaking and scuba diving.
Be on the lookout for the floating restaurant, which I definitely recommend that you try as this will make your Lamu island getaway worth it.
Did I mention that visiting this Island is your ideal opportunity to swim with the dolphin? Well, now you have more reasons to book that Lamu Island getaway.
For all the bird watchers, we got you covered. Lake Nakuru National Park is located in the vicinity of the Great Rift Valley and is among the hidden gems in Kenya.
Though the lake is not as big, the area is common for flamingos. These are not the only birds in the area. If you are a keen bird watcher, you will also notice other species like the greater spotted eagle, Madagascar Pond Herons, pelicans, storks, gulls and the Pallid Harrier.
For non bird watchers, you will definitely be able to spot other animals like hippos, rhinos and giraffes. Be on the lookout for monkeys that might snatch your food and belongings.
Located near Lake Naivasha in Kenya, Hell’s Gate National Park is one of the Best Places to go for a Vacation in Kenya
Contrary to its name, this place gives a relaxing vibe and it is ideal for scenic views and outdoor activities. Some of the activities include bike riding, nature trails for trekking, hiking and picnics.
For most of these activities, it is advised to tag a tour guide to help with maneuvering the area and help you spot wildlife without endangering yourself.
If you decide to visit this historic scenery, do not leave your food unattended because the monkeys might just snatch them.
Have you ever been to a marine national park? If not, Watamu Marine Park should be on your to-visit list when you are in Kenya.
Considered one of the best tourist destinations in Kenya, this marine National park features and protects the sea life and advice on how to protect our sea animals.
You will spot marine animals like dolphins, turtles, crabs, octopus and dugongs among other sea creatures.
Considering this is a hidden gem in Kenya, I highly recommend you come and try snorkeling for your chance to spot more marine life and the marine’s natural beauty.
Samburu is a prime destination in Kenya located in the northern part of the country. This Kenyan destination is home to the Samburu tribe, and it is fast becoming one of the best safari destinations in Kenya.
Samburu is home to three game parks! they include; Samburu National Park, Shaba National Park and Buffalo Springs. All of these park share a border and are separated by the Ewaso Nyiro River.
Apart from the park, the Samburu people are very welcoming to tourists. They are very open to teaching you their culture.
If you are looking for a Kenya road trip itinerary, then kindly consider adding Samburu cultural safari to the list and you will definitely learn a thing or two. You will also get the chance to take a souvenir with you.
Giraffe Centre, located just a few kilometres from the city of Nairobi is one of the best destinations in Kenya.
Being one of the facilities that are tasked with the duty of protecting giraffes in East Africa, this is the most convenient destination if you are looking for budget-friendly travel that makes an impact on eco-tourism in Kenya.
This wildlife conservation centre gives you a one-on-one familiarity with giraffes. You get to feed the giraffes with your own hand. Yes, you read that right. Using an elevated space, you can see the giraffe up-close and feed it personally. Cool, right?
