From the dramatic Great Rift Valley to the grassy savannahs, Kenya is one Eastern African country that has the best of nature on display. The vivid wilderness, interspersed with modern day technology and entertainment, makes this the ideal destination where a traveller can choose to connect either to the modern world or the living, breathing real and natural one. With a plethora of destinations to choose from, we at Yo! bring you the top five
Stunning Nairobi
The capital city of Kenya is home to many attractions. The Nairobi national park is a grand attraction, where noble black rhinos share the world’s stage with a variety of other animals. The giraffe conservancy called the ‘Giraffe manor’ is a delightful place to have breakfast with a giraffe, and if you intend to go shopping then don’t forget to check out the Village market which has over 150 shops with a range of artefacts and Kenyan crafts on display.
Mesmerizing Masai Mara
A trip to Kenya is incomplete without a trip to the famed (and not without reason!) Masai Mara game reserve. What you’ve only seen on National Geographic comes alive before you in its myriad moods and colours as the African big five -the lions, leopards, elephants, cheetahs and buffalo can be seen. Do take a jeep safari and if you’re more than a little adventurous, then we’d recommend the hot air balloon which gives you a bird eye view of the plains and the animals that inhabit it.
Vivacious Lake Nakuru
This alkaline lake in the rift valley is an ideal destination for those who like to see the vivid winged beasts of the jungle. Renowned for its fascinating flamingos that can be seen in hundreds and thousands, this region is a bird sanctuary where you can encounter zebras, elephants, gazelles, baboons and rhinos as well. The Lake Nakuru national park also has black and white rhinos, waterbuck and large sized pythons as well.
Vibrant Mombasa
A stark difference from the wild savannahs is Mombasa, which is known for its pristine white sandy beaches and vivid cultural history. Home to the former Portugese, Arab and British settlers, this is the ideal place to experience food, architecture and cultural diversity. And that’s not all. Mombasa offers some great water sports and entertainment options such as swimming with whale sharks and deep sea diving, not to forget an exciting nightlife as well, thanks to the range of dance clubs and casinos that can be found here.
Culturally intact Lamu
Part of the Kenyan Archipelago, Lamu is Kenya’s oldest living town, and has retained all its old world charm over the centuries. The architecture stands outs with most houses having a rooftop that is used as a patio – indicating a society where ‘catching the breeze’ is important. If visiting, do stay in one of the Swahili-style Lamu villas and travel by donkeys, which are the major form of transport, along with dhows and speedboats.
