Little known things to do in Kenya
Little known things to do in Kenya : Kenya is known for its great kenya wildlife safaris destinations, beautiful white sand beaches and breathtaking sceneries. It is also known for the Great Wildebeest Migration and the amazing Big 5 animals which are seen on game drive safaris to various parks within the country. Here are some of the little known things to do in Kenya other than going for safari tours:
Go Hiking in Mount Elgon
Mount Elgon has serene slopes which offer excellent game viewing safaris. It is a less crowded Kenya safari destination yet equally stunning as mount Kilimanjaro. Climbing the mountain is a must-do activity, as it offers numerous waterfalls and hot springs for relaxation. Climbing Mount Elgon, an extinct shield volcano on Kenya’s border with Uganda, is possible from both directions. The three most popular ways in Kenya are via the Mount Elgon National Park, which is reached from Kitale, Endebess, and Masara. The third route, via Kimilili, is seen to be the most advantageous route from the Kenyan side. Keep in mind that driving is not allowed on Mount Elgon National Park’s roads, and 4WD is advised.
Camel ride in Samburu National Reserve
You can ride one of these humped ungulates to explore the African bush; did you know that you can do away with the 4×4 car and get on a camel? It’s an excellent substitute for the conventional method of watching games! Because camels thrive in arid environments like those found in Northern Kenya, a camelback safari in the Samburu National Reserve is highly recommended. As you stroll through the wilderness, camel bells chiming, totally at one with the pulse of nature, you can get up close and personal with plains wildlife like zebra, giraffe, and ostrich. This is an incredible experience. Definitely one of the most enjoyable things to do in Kenya is this.
Go deep-sea fishing in Watamu
Watamu is a tiny town on Indian Ocean coast of Kenya, located roughly 105 kilometres ( miles) north of Mombasa. The Watamu Marine National Park is one of first marine parks in Kenya, protects the area’s stunning white-sand beaches and coral gardens. Further out, Kenya’s Watamu seas are well known worldwide for their spectacular deep-sea fishing. There are multiple fishing options available, and it’s one of the few locations in the world where three different varieties of marlin, sailfish, and broadbill swordfish can all be found.
The Watamu Marine National Park is greatly protected by local community organisations and the tourism industry in the area, which was one of the first in Kenya to implement “tag-and-release” fishing methods. Reputable businesses such as Hemingways Watamu provide clients expert tag-and-release fishing charters and give anglers certificates for their catches. These half- or full-day trips support African ecotourism while providing fishermen of all skill levels with the chance to feel the unparalleled rush of a huge catch.
One of the most fulfilling things to do in Kenya is to take an excursion to the Gedi (or Gede) Ruins if you appreciate seeing historical and cultural monuments. This archaeological site is situated outside of the town of Malindi, close to Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast. There is relatively little written documentation of the ancient Swahili city that appears to have thrived within a thick native forest, based on the enigmatic ruins. It is thought that Gedi, which is made entirely of rocks and stones, was first constructed in the 12th century and was restored in the 15th and 16th centuries. Mosques, a palace, and homes suggest that the city flourished and peaked following the reconstruction.
A declining water table, threats from a hostile nomadic tribe from Somalia, and coastal incursions by Congo tribes in 1589 are thought to have contributed to the city’s abandonment back to nature in the 17th century. Discover this mysterious buried city as butterflies flit through the shaded shadows of an old forest full of curious monkeys and birds. The local people still consider the forest that surrounds Gedi as a sacred location for customary ceremonies.
Air safaris in Lake Turkana
Lake Turkana in Kenya is the largest alkaline lake in the world as well as the largest permanent desert lake. It is one of the many another lakes in found within Rift Valley in Kenya. It is very far north of kenya but if you can make the drive to this hidden corner of Kenya, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most distinctive sceneries on Earth.
Helicopter safaris are among the greatest ways to see Lake Turkana from above. Admire some of the planet’s last surviving, unspoiled wilderness areas as you soar above rocky outcrops, parched plains, twisting riverbeds, volcanic craters, and old cycad forests. If you have some extra cash to spend on vacation, this amazing adventure is one of the best things to do in Kenya if you’re staying at safari lodges like Sirikoi in Lewa.
Visit the Cultural Lamu Town
The stunning islands of Lamu, Manda, Pate, Kiwayu, and Manda Toto are part of the renowned Lamu Archipelago, which is situated on Kenya’s northern coast. If you’re searching for gloriously quiet, isolated beach holidays, these jewels of the Indian Ocean are well worth a visit. One of the greatest things to do in Kenya for cultural travellers is to visit Lamu Island, which is home to one of the oldest and best-preserved Swahili towns still standing in East Africa. Lamu Town, on the island, is small but nevertheless maintains some of its original activities and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is characterised by tall and narrow Swahili architecture, winding alleyways, and finely carved wooden doors are what make it so special. It is constructed of mangrove timber and coral stone.
Ali Barbour’s Cave in Diani Beach
Greetings from Diani Beach to Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant now picture yourself enjoying a delectable bottle of wine and nibbling on seafood straight from the ocean while sitting in a naturally sculpted coral cave and gazing up at the moon and stars beaming through an open roof. The cave is thought to be about 150,000 years old and it is made up of a network of connected, outdoor chambers that are as deep as 10 meters (33 feet). Renowned worldwide for its unparalleled romantic ambiance, the restaurant offers delectable menu with a focus on seafood (although there are also options for poultry, red meat, and vegetarianism). The Chilli Crab is the clear winner here! Ali Barbour’s provides a fantastic fine dining experience in a unique atmosphere.
Make a reservation at Ali Barbour’s Cave if you’re seeking for one of the more unusual things to do in Kenya while spending a few days on the seaside near Diani. Most hotels around Diani Beach are eligible for a complimentary pick-up and drop-off service provided by the restaurant.
Cycling in Hell’s Gate National Park
One of the few parks in Africa that people can explore on foot or by bicycle is Hell’s Gate National Park, because it doesn’t include any dangerous animals. Two extinct volcanoes that once surrounded the park sculpted its distinctive lava-carved topography and numerous geothermal phenomena, including natural geysers and hot springs. Exploring Hell’s Gate’s vast expanses and twisting trails is a highly suggested activity if you’re looking for enjoyable things to do in Kenya. You don’t own any wheels? Not a concern! Rentable bicycles can be found both inside the park and from merchants outside the main gate.