Ready for your next Africa vacation? Add good places to visit in Kenya, Africa, to your travel bucket list, and marvel at the wonders the universe has in store in this safari nation.
Kenya, a treasure magnet of unforgettable safari experiences, offers breathtaking landscapes, incredible fauna, and diverse cultures.
From majestic Mount Kenya to vibrant Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city, stunning Mombasa beaches, and the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve, the nation has something for everyone.
Explore breathtaking national parks and fascinating traditional attractions, and experience unique adventures on an unforgettable African safari.
With its rich diversity, Kenya’s fun places to see are top travel destinations in Africa, offering an endless and amazing experience, including wildlife-rich savannahs, beautiful beaches, and well-preserved forests.
This is a detailed overview of the ultimate Kenya tourist destinations in the region!
Outstanding Kenya National Parks and Reserves
Kenya, East Africa’s wildlife capital, boasts 60 conservation and protected areas, including the iconic Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo, considered to be some of the best places to visit in Kenya, offering unforgettable wilderness safaris and scenic experiences as explained below.
1) The Most Visited Masai Mara National Reserve
Masai Mara, located in southwestern Kenya’s Narok County, spans 1,510 km² and is the major place to visit in Kenya when on African safaris.
Established in 1961, it’s renowned for its abundant fauna, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros) and the Great Migration of over 1 million wildebeests, 200,000 zebras as they head to Serengeti Tanzania, and over 500 bird species.
The reserve features diverse landscapes, e.g., the Enkaji Osiwo Forest, Maasai villages, Mara River, and several conservancies and gates, plus grasslands, rivers, and acacia trees.
Visitors can enjoy game drives, hot air balloon safaris, traditional visits to Maasai villages to see the locals, etc., while staying at numerous luxury lodges and tented camps in the region like Angama Mara, Ol Seki Hemmingways, and Il Moran Camp, etc.
2) The Urban Centered Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park, established in 1946, is a 117 km² park located 7 km south of Nairobi, Kenya.
As the world’s only national park within a capital city, it’s a unique place to go visiting in Kenya, and it boasts diverse fauna, including lions, leopards, and rhinos, as well as over 500 bird species among other animals.
Visitors can enjoy guided game drives, birdwatching, and nature walk safaris, with nearby accommodations ranging from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites that suite each person, e.g., Emakoko, Giraffe Manor, Osoita Lodge, and Ole Sereni Hotel, etc.
The park is a vital migration corridor in the region, connecting to other reserves like Hell’s Gate and Aberdare NP.
3) The Iconic Amboseli National Park
Located in southern Kenya, it spans 392 km². Established in 1948, it’s renowned for its large elephant population and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak (5,895 m).
4) The Stunning Lake Nakuru National Park
Established in 1961, it is located in central Kenya and covers ~188 km². It is one of the best tourist places to see in Kenya on safari tours.
The park is popular for its flamingo populations, rhino sanctuary, and diverse fauna, including lions, leopards, and Rothschild giraffes, with over 400 bird species and scenic attractions like Makalia waterfalls and Baboon cliff.
Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, wildlife viewing, boat safaris, and game drives.
5) The Vast Tsavo National Parks
These are one of Kenya’s largest parks, covering ~20,000 km² and comprising two parks: Tsavo East (11,747 km²) and Tsavo West (9,065 km²).
Established in 1948, they are known for diverse fauna, including the Big Five, and unique landscapes like the Yatta Plateau and Mzima Springs.
Visitors can enjoy game drives, hiking, and birdwatching, with scenic views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Various accommodations are available for a good rest when on Kenya safaris, ranging from luxury lodges like Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge to budget-friendly options like Kipalo Camp.
Other Amazing Kenya Game Parks and Reserves
Below are the other game parks and reserves known for being some of the best tourist places to see in Kenya when on African wilderness safaris.
Aberdare National Park, ~767 km², established in 1950, is found in central Kenya in the Aberdare Mountains range, known for its diverse landscapes, Karuru waterfalls, fauna, and historic significance.
- Mount Elgon National Park spans ~1,279 km², straddling Kenya and Uganda, featuring diverse flora, fauna, and scenery, including caves, waterfalls, and peaks, with hiking, birdwatching, and primate viewing opportunities, and unique attractions like Kitum Cave and Jackson’s Pool.
- Hell’s Gate National Park in southwestern Kenya near Lake Naivasha and ~90 km from Nairobi, Kenya, covers 68 km². Established in 1984, famous for its unique volcanic landscape, geysers, hot springs, and diverse fauna.
- Samburu National Reserve in Samburu County, northern Kenya, spans 165 km² along the Ewaso Ng’iro River, 350 km from Nairobi, Kenya, boasting a unique arid landscape and diverse fauna since its establishment in 1948.
- Lake Bogoria National Reserve, located in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, covers ~107 km², featuring Lake Bogoria (32 km²). Established in 1970, it is known for geysers, hot springs, and diverse fauna (e.g., flamingos (up to 2 million), 135 bird species, and large mammals like greater kudu, buffalo, and cheetah).
- Mount Kenya National Park, covering ~715 km², is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring Africa’s 2nd-highest peak, Mount Kenya (5,199 m), glaciers, alpine flora, and diverse fauna, including elephants, leopards, and over 331 bird species, with unique landscapes and hiking trails.
Additionally, you can explore these other unique game parks when on Kenya safaris, e.g.,.
| · Arabuko Sokoke NP | · Arawale National Reserve |
| · Bisanadi National Reserve | · Boni National Reserve |
| · Buffalo Springs National Reserve | · Central Island NP |
| · Chyulu Hills NP | · Dodori National Reserve |
| · Kakamega Forest National Reserve | · Kora NP |
| · Malka Mari NP | · Meru NP |
| · Mount Longonot NP | · Mwea National Reserve |
| · Ol Donyo Sabuk NP | · Rahole National Reserve |
| · Rimoi National Reserve | · Ruma NP |
| · Saiwa Swamp NP | · Shimba Hills National Reserve |
| · Sibiloi NP | · Witu Forest Reserve |
Book a Kenya safari tour today and explore all these tourist destinations for a wonderful and unique experience!
Remarkable Marine Parks in Kenya
With about six marine parks covering approximately 120 km², protecting coral reefs, mangroves, and diverse marine life, and offering snorkeling, diving, and dolphin-watching experiences, they are some of the best places to see in Kenya when on African safaris. They include;
1) Mombasa Marine National Park and Reserve
Situated off the Mombasa coast, the south coast of Kenya was established in 1986, with the park covering ~10 km² and a reserve of ~200 km² featuring coral reefs, sea turtles, and diverse marine species, with snorkeling, diving, and boating activities.
2) Watamu Marine National Park
Situated near Watamu town, on the north coast of Kenya, it covers ~10 km2, was established in 1968, features coral reefs, 600 fish species, turtles, whales, and dolphins, and has snorkeling and diving opportunities. It has been regarded as a UN-recognized World Biosphere Reserve since 1979.
Other marine parks dubbed as the best tourist places to see in Kenya are Kisite-Mpunguti Marine NP, Malindi Marine NP, Kiunga Marine National Reserve, and Tana River Primate Reserve.
Take a trip to these iconic tourist places to see in Kenya for memorable experiences when on safari tours!
Amazing Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kenya
Offering unforgettable safari experiences, protecting endangered species and unique ecosystems, with up-close animal encounters, conservation efforts, and stunning natural beauty, these wildlife sanctuaries listed below are some of the top tourist places to see in Kenya when on African safaris.
- Giraffe Centre in Nairobi, Kenya
A Nairobi, Kenya reserve offering up-close encounters with endangered Rothschild giraffes, feeding experiences, and conservation education.
- Nairobi Animal Orphanage in Nairobi, Kenya
A renowned Nairobi, Kenya, facility caring for orphaned, injured, and abandoned wildlife while promoting conservation education and community involvement.
You can also complement your safari with other additional wildlife sanctuaries considered unique tourist places to see in Kenya, e.g.,.
| · Bour-Algi Giraffe Sanctuary |
| · Ishaqbini Hirola Conservancy |
| · LUMO Community Wildlife Sanctuary |
| · Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary |
| · Olare Motorogi Conservancy |
| · Ol Pejeta Conservancy |
| · Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary |
Book a trip to Kenya today and explore these unique places to see on an African safari!
Breathtaking Kenya Lakes and Rivers
Kenya is home to numerous iconic lakes, including Lake Victoria (68,800 km²), Lake Turkana (6,405 km²), Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru, Lake Bogoria, and Lake Magadi, as well as major rivers like the Nile, Mara, Tana, Athi, and Galana, showcasing the country’s diverse aquatic landscapes.
Explore these when on African safaris and get a glimpse of why they are some of the best places to visit in Kenya!
Incredible Kenya Forests
These are another of the fascinating tourist places to see in Kenya when on safari trips, as they host several bird species and fauna worth exploring.
- Cherangani Hills Forest—Indigenous Forest covering ~120 km² blessed with rolling hills and various plant and animal species.
- Elmenteita Badlands—spans ~5 km² with unique volcanic landscapes, fossil discoveries, and diverse bird species.
- Kakamega Forest—covering ~230 km² and the last remaining tropical rainforest in Kenya, home to various bird species and a biodiversity hotspot.
- Karura Forest—found in Nairobi, Kenya, covering ~1,041 ha with breathtaking hiking trails, waterfalls, caves, and diverse fauna, plus a popular hiking and biking destination.
- Kaya (Mijikenda)—located in coastal Kenya, believed to be the sacred forests and traditional heritage sites of the Mijikenda people.
- Kaya Mudzi Muvya—situated in coastal Kenya and a sacred forest and traditional heritage site of the Mijikenda people with traditional Kaya Forest dwellings.
- Loita Forest—Indigenous forest covering ~1,796 km², home to the Maasai people with scenic hills, unique flora, diverse fauna, and a popular destination for traditional tourism.
- Malava Forest—found in western Kenya, adorned with stunning hills and unique plant and animal species, and a popular destination for birdwatching.
- Mau Forest—Largest indigenous forest in Kenya and East Africa, covering ~ 273,300 ha, with significant biodiversity and traditional importance.
- Menengai Forest—nestled in central Kenya, covering ~100 km², home to the Menengai Crater with diverse birdlife and a popular hiking destination.
- Nairobi Arboretum—Urban forest reserve in Nairobi, Kenya, spanning ~30 ha, established in 1907, blessed with a variety of plant species, walking trails, picnic areas, and a popular destination for recreation and relaxation with friends.
- Ngangao Forest—biodiversity hotspot with various plant and animal species and a popular destination for birdwatching.
- Ngare Ndare Forest—Indigenous forest covering ~5 km² with unique canopy walkways, significant biodiversity and traditional importance, and a popular destination for hiking and birdwatching.
- Ngong Forest—nestled in Nairobi Kenya, covering ~1,300 ha with scenic hiking trails, unique flora, and diverse fauna, hence a popular tourist destination for hiking and birding tours.
- Ol Doinyo Orok—Sacred Mountain, with traditional and spiritual significance, rolling hills, a variety of flora and animal species, and a popular destination for hiking and trekking.
- Oloolua Forest—Situated in Nairobi, Kenya, covering ~250 ha with hiking trails, unique flora, and diverse fauna. A popular destination for hiking and birdwatching safaris.
- Shakahola Forest—Indigenous Forest, with significant biodiversity and traditional importance, with rolling hills, flora, and animal species, and a popular destination for hiking and birdwatching.
Book a trip to Kenya today and explore these amazing good places to visit for unique experiences!
Popular Tourism Cities and Towns in Kenya
These are home to some of the most remarkable tourist destinations in Kenya, as well as popular safari destinations in Kenya. These include:
- Nairobi—Kenya’s capital city, a financial hub with tranquil parks, animal sanctuaries, Nairobi City Market in downtown Nairobi, and museums. Offers diverse accommodation options and a vibrant night tour year-round to those interested.
- Mombasa—Kenya’s vibrant coastal city, boasting historic landmarks, stunning marine parks, and idyllic beaches, attracting tourists all year round.
- Kisumu—Third-largest city, situated on Lake Victoria, with attractions like the Kisumu Museum and Impala Sanctuary.
- Nakuru—Fourth-largest town, known for Lake Nakuru NP
- Eldoret—Fifth-largest city, with breathtaking views of the Rift Valley.
- Malindi—a coastal town with pristine beaches, marine national parks Kenya, and historic sites like the Pillar of Vasco Da Gama.
- Lamu—Oldest continuously inhabited Swahili settlement with notable tourist attractions like the Riyadha Mosque and Lamu Museum.
- Nyeri—near Mount Kenya and Aberdare National Park, with a good road network.
- Naivasha—found on the Great Rift Valley, with lake views, fauna encounters, and safari rally events.
Explore these fun Kenya places to see on African safaris for memorable adventures!
Significant Cultural and Historical Sites in Kenya
These are some of the Kenyan places to see when on an African safari that will give you an insight into the traditional heritage and history of the nation.
- Fort Jesus Museum—a 16th-century Portuguese fort and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mombasa, showcasing Kenya’s rich history and architectural heritage.
- Karen Blixen Museum in Nairobi, Kenya—dedicated to the life and works of Danish author Karen Blixen, featuring colonial-era artifacts.
- Bomas of Kenya in Nairobi—Cultural center, featuring traditional Kenyan villages, music, and dance performances.
Additionally, you can take a tour of these tourist places in Kenya to have a great time with friends and family.
| · Abasuba Community Peace Museum | · African Heritage House (Mlolongo) | · August 7th Memorial Park |
| · Garissa Museum | · Gedi Ruins (Malindi) | · Hyrax Hill Museum (Nairobi) |
| · Hyrax Hill Site Museum | · Kenyatta House | · Kenya Railway Museum (Nairobi) |
| · Kisumu Museum | · Kit-Mikayi | · Koobi Fora Prehistoric Site |
| · Lamu Museum | · Nairobi Gallery | · The Nairobi National Museum |
| · The Nairobi Railway Museum | · Narok Museum | · Nyeri Museum |
| · Olorgesailie Prehistoric Site | · Ouma’s Maasai Mara National Reserve | · Rabai Museum |
| · Siyu Fort | · Snake Park | · Takwa Ruins |
| · Tambach Museum | · Thimlich Ohinga Historic Site | · Wajir Museum, among others, on Kenya safaris. |
Embark on an African safari and tour all these good places in Kenya to see!
Sacred Religious Sites in Kenya
Kenya is home to numerous places of worship, including;
| · Azhar Mosque | · Burhani Mosque |
| · Gurdwara Makindu Sahib | · Jamia Mosque |
| · Mai Mahiu Catholic Church | · Masjid Abubakar Mosque |
| · Mombasa Memorial Cathedral | · Nairobi Mosques |
| · Shiva Temple | · Shree Parshva Vallabh Jain Temple |
| · Swaminarayan Temple | · Nairobi Kenya Churches |
These Kenya places to see are worth exploring when on safari holidays with family for an unforgettable experience!
Famous Kenya Beaches and Islands
This is a detailed list of Kenya’s islands and beaches.
- Islands that are breathtaking include Mombasa Island, Mfangano Island, Ndere Island, Funzi Island, Chale Island, Pate Island, Wasini Island, Lamu Island (in the Indian Ocean.), Manda Island, and Kiwayu Island.
- Pristine Beaches like Diani Beach, Watamu Beach, Nyali Beach, Bamburi Beach, Shanzu Beach, Tiwi Beach, Galu , Che Shale Beach, etc.
These are some of the best places in Kenya to see on African safaris that you should not miss!
Best Time to Visit Kenya
Though open year-round, the best time to visit Kenya‘s best tourist places is June to October, with clear weather, minimal rainfall, and optimal wildlife viewing. This period coincides with the Great Migration in Masai Mara, which is a major Kenya safari highlight.
Consider avoiding peak tourist seasons in July and August for a more relaxed safari experience.
How to Get to Kenya for Safaris?
To get to Kenya, fly into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) or take a bus or private vehicle from neighboring countries to Nairobi, Kenya.
You can also arrive by sea at the Port of Mombasa, then rent a car or book a transfer and head to Nairobi, Kenya or your tourist destination.
Once in Nairobi, Kenya, use domestic flights, road transfers, or tour operator services to get around. For fly-in safaris, fly from Wilson Airport. Chartered flights can save you long road transfers.
Citizens of most countries can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa on the nation’s website.
Consult your doctor about vaccinations and take necessary precautions against malaria and other safety concerns.
Kenya Packing List
When packing for Kenya, include lightweight and breathable clothing, warm layers, and waterproof rain gear.
Don’t forget personal toiletries, electronics, and activity gear like binoculars and sunscreen. Bring necessary travel documents, including a passport, visa, and travel insurance.
Pack miscellaneous items like snacks, reading material, and local currency—Kenyan shilling.
Finally, check with your airline or travel provider for specific baggage restrictions or requirements.
Places to Visit in Kenya, Africa FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Is Kenya Safe for Tourists?
It is a perfectly safe country for tourists to tour, with tourist destinations highly protected. However, just like any other country, taking precautions is a must.
2. What Is Kenya Best Known For?
Kenya is renowned for its incredible animals, including the “Big Five,” stunning landscapes, Mount Kenya, and the iconic Great Migration of wildebeest in the Maasai Mara and bird watchers know it for unique Kenya bird species.
3. What Is the Most Visited Destination in Kenya? | What Is the Number One Tourist Attraction in Kenya?
Maasai Mara National Reserve is the most visited tourist destination in Kenya because of its annual wildebeest migration.
4. What Do Tourists Come to See in Kenya?
Visitors come to explore Kenya’s top attractions, including world-class safaris, stunning beaches, mountains, amazing fauna, historic Swahili settlements, and cultural sites like the Karen Blixen Museum and Lamu Island.
5. How Many Days for Kenya Safari? Is 5 Days in Kenya Enough?
Kenya’s safari highlights can be experienced in a 5-day vacation, but a 7+ day tour is advised for a more thorough experience that includes visiting several areas, especially with loved ones.
6. What Is the Most Beautiful Thing in Kenya?
The annual wildebeest migration in Masai Mara is the most beautiful thing in the nation.
7. Where Is the Most Beautiful City in Kenya?
Mombasa, Kenya’s second-largest city, a vibrant coastal destination known for its stunning beaches, historic old town, and rich maritime culture, is the most beautiful city in the nation.
8. Where Do People Go on Holiday in Kenya?
Tourists visiting Kenya can go to top holiday destinations like Masai Mara for fauna, Diani Beach for relaxation, Mombasa for culture, and Lake Nakuru, the birdwatcher’s paradise, for birdwatching and rhino spotting.
9. Which Is the Best Area to Stay in Kenya?
Nairobi, Kenya, is the best area to rest in, as it is a base for safaris, while Mombasa and Diani Beach are ideal for beach holidays.
10. Why Is Kenya A Tourist Attraction?
The country’s unique blend of fauna, natural beauty, and culture makes it a top travel destination for safaris, beach vacations, mountaineering, and traditional experiences.
11. What Is Unique in Kenya?
Kenya boasts a unique traditional heritage, incredible wildlife diversity, and renowned conservation efforts, with 8% of its land protected, and is home to the Big Five.
Experience the magic of Kenya on an unforgettable African safari, exploring breathtaking landscapes, vibrant traditional history, cultural experiences, and incredible animals in this ultimate tourist destination.