best travel book on kenya

10 Recommended Books Featuring Kenya

Some of the books set in Kenya have gone on to win awards and films have been made about a few. And why not? The mixture of memoirs and fiction showcase the rich Kenyan culture through the eyes of each author. Get ready for a roller-coaster ride, from the precolonial era to the modern age.

Non-fiction, unbowed by wangari maathai.

Wangari Maathai was one of the most revered women in Kenya. She was determined, letting nothing (and no one) stand in her way. She chronicles her struggle from an early age in her rural home (to get an education when women were not allowed to do so), to becoming the first woman to head a university department. In 1977, she started the Green Belt Movement to plant trees across Kenya and to stop land grabs. This resulted in a lot of run-ins with the Kenyan government. In 2004 she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

West with the Night by Beryl Markham

Beryl Markham is a stark contrast to Wangari. She tells of her life in Kenya during the 1920s and 1930s when colonialism had a tight grip on Kenya. She is said to be the first woman to cross the Pacific Ocean alone. That last part is debatable, but she certainly made the first female crossing. In the book, Beryl writes of her aviation adventures and her horse training days in Kenya.

My Maasai Life: From Suburbia to Savannah by Robin Wiszowaty

Robin Wiszowaty was a normal girl living in the middle-class suburbs of Illinois until her life was upended during her gap year in Kenya. She ends up in an impoverished part of Maasailand. Living under the guidance of her adopted mother, ‘she is forced to face issues she’s never considered: extreme poverty, drought, female circumcision, corruption – and discovers love in the most unexpected places’.

Born Free: A Lioness of Two Worlds by Joy Adamson

This is an account of Elsa’s journey, a lion cub adopted by conservationists Joy Adamson and her husband, George. They raised her so she could return to the wild after Joy killed Elsa’s mother, having mistaken her for a male lion.

Out of Africa by Isak Dinesen (Karen Blixen)

This is, perhaps, the most recognised book about Kenya and was made into a movie. In the book, the author repeatedly fails to differentiate the country from the continent. She refers to Kenya as Africa throughout the book. The opening line, though, ‘I had a farm in Africa at the foot of the Ngong Hills’, captures a lot of readers’ imaginations.

A Grain of Wheat by Ngugi wa Thiong’o

The book is set to the backdrop of the Mau Mau rebellion, in a small village, four days before Kenya’s independence from Britain. Ngugi wa Thiong’o employs flashback to transport the reader to the Emergency Period (1952-1960), during which colonialists detained and tortured civilians. The book reveals the role each villager played towards liberation and the secrets they held.

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The Constant Gardener by John le Carré

This riveting murder mystery is set in Northern Kenya. Tessa Quayle has just been murdered. Justin, her husband, travels to Northern Kenya to find out what happened to his beloved wife. In the process, he uncovers more about Tessa than he ever thought imaginable. The book has been made into a movie directed by Fernando Meirelles.

The Elephant Dropping by Bruce Trzebinski

This witty and humorous book is Bruce Trzebinski first novel. An English banker, learns firsthand about corruption in Kenya as he deals with an Indian businessman and his Arab accomplice, unscrupulous police officers, and a street-smart prostitute.

Death in Kenya by M.M. Kaye

Victoria Caryll is offered a job at Flamingo, her aunt’s family estate in the Rift Valley. She is excited to go back in the hopes of seeing Eden DeBrett, her ex-fiancé. But things do not turn out for the best. She finds a sombre environment, with people still recovering from the Mau Mau rebellion , as well as a murder in the family.

Murder on Safari by Elspeth Huxley

A royal family visits Kenya in the 1930s for a safari, but Lady Baradale’s prized jewellery is stolen. Vachell, a young Canadian officer, is called in to investigate but it soon turns into a murder case when Lady Baradale is found dead with a gunshot wound to her head.

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14 Unique Books About Kenya You Must Read

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Travel to Africa with our favorite books about Kenya. Find new Kenyan writers along with the best books set in Kenya to take you there.

If you are hoping to learn more about Kenyan culture or are looking for books to read before visiting Kenya, this reading list should help get you started.

Discover top Kenyan novels from famous and beloved Kenyan authors.

Some of these books even caused quite a stir upon publication. Imagine going to jail with no charges because of the reaction your story incited.

Then, explore the best Kenyan books from popular bloggers and writers along with short stories and noir tales.

Unearth must-read books on Kenya that provide insight into politics and war paired with unique nonfiction books about Kenya and Kenyan life including a beautiful graphic novel.

Our Kenya book list is sure to have something for every type of reader.

So, what books about Kenya should you read to teach you more and take you there? Let’s get started.

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Table of Contents

14 Must-Read Books About Kenya

By Dagney McKinney

Best Kenyan Novels

1. Petals of Blood by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o

On its first publication in 1977, Petals of Blood caused such a reaction that author Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o was imprisoned without charges by the Kenyan government.

The story begins with the murder of three African directors of a foreign-owned brewery, who were all killed in a fire.

From there we follow four main protagonists – Munira, Karega, Wanja, and Abdullah – who are all suspects in the apparent murders. They relocate from the city to the small village of Ilmorog.

As each character experiences and adjusts to Kenya’s transformation from colonial rule to independence, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o weaves together themes of politics, capitalism, the effects of rapid westernization, and the apathy that comes with believing your leaders will simply continue to fail you, again and again.

Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o is one of the most beloved Kenyan writers, and Petals of Blood is one of the most well-known Kenyan novels – for good reason! Buy a copy of Petals of Blood by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o .

2. Thursdays by Jackson Biko

If you want to read modern Kenyan books about the youth of today and Kenyan culture, read Jackson Biko.

Biko is a popular blogger in Nairobi and one of the most popular contemporary Kenyan writers.

His prose in Thursdays is effortless, like chatting with a friend. You can’t help getting pulled into the story.

It’s a story about a Nairobi band, the Vina Wira. Most nights they play at a sketchy bar, but on Thursdays, the band tries their luck playing outside a recording label company.

This is a book about a band , but it’s also about so much more than that.

In particular, Thursdays is about mental health and how it intersects with modern Kenyan culture. Buy a copy of Thursdays by Jackson Biko .

3. The Havoc of Choice by Wanjiru Koinange

Wanjiru Koinange’s novel revolves around the infamous Kenyan election of 2007, which caused such civil unrest that hundreds of people died and thousands more were displaced.

In fact, it is one of the first books about Kenya to address this incident in great detail.

As the election draws near, Kavata’s husband Ngugi decides to run for office with the support of her father, a corrupt politician.

As the evils of underhanded political machinations begin to infect her home, Kavata plots to escape before it’s too late.

Set in the weeks before, during, and after the election, and following Kavata, her children, and their extended family, The Havoc of Choice reflects on the corruption that blighted Kenyan culture at that time.

The Kenyan novel explores what the course of national healing and rebuilding might look like going forward. Buy a copy of The Havoc of Choice by Wanjiru Koinange .

4. The In-Between World of Vikram Lall by M.G. Vassanji

For award-winning books on Kenya, The In-Between World of Vikram Lall is mainly told in flashbacks. While living in exile in Canada, the now adult Vikram Lall contemplates his life.

Vik, as we get to know him, covers his coming of age in Kenya in the early fifties – while the country was struggling towards independence – through the transition from hope to corruption as the sixties became the seventies and eighties.

Throughout all this, Vik and his sister Deepa, grandchildren of an Indian rail worker, struggle to find and understand their place in the world amongst the divisions between Kenyans and the British Empire.

The novel covers in painful detail the strains on their family, the violence of the Mau Mau radicals, and the dangers of involvement in political corruption.

The In-Between World of Vikram Lall is one of the best historical books about Kenya and the Mau Mau Uprisings and their aftermath. Buy a copy of The In-Between World of Vikram Lall by M.G. Vassanji .

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5. The Dragonfly Sea by Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor

Did you know Kenyan has islands? I certainly didn’t before picking up The Dragonfly Sea !

Our protagonist, Ayaana, and her mother Munira live on the Kenyan island of Pate.

When an unlikely father figure appears in the form of the sailor Muhidin, things are set in motion which will change the course of Ayaana’s life forever.

Because Ayaana has always felt the draw of the sea, and once she grows into adulthood, she will have the chance to set sail towards the Far East.

Ayaana is in search of her ancestors and of learning, before returning home either triumphant or broken. Which emotion it will be, she does not know – she only knows she must go.

The Dragonfly Sea is one of those charming coming-of-age Kenyan novels perfect for anyone who loves books set on islands . Buy a copy of The Dragonfly Sea by Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor .

6. City of Saints & Thieves by Natalie C. Anderson

If you’re looking for YA books about Kenya, this is a fantastic option – and thoroughly enjoyable even if you don’t typically like YA.

Part murder mystery, part revenge thriller, City of Saints & Thieves is a book about Tina, a Congolese refugee in Sangui City, a fictional Kenyan city.

Shortly after they arrive in Sangui City, Tina’s mother starts work as a maid for a rich mining family. But when her mother is murdered, Tina becomes determined to prove who did it.

Tina becomes a thief for a local gang in order to survive, befriending others in the same position. But vengeance is always on her mind.

City of Saints & Thieves switches back and forth between Kenya and Congo.

The book reveals glimpses of Tina’s life during the Congolese Civil War, weaving in some Congolese and Kenyan politics throughout

But what makes this one of the best Kenyan books is how the country, culture, and people come to life.

Many books set in Kenya written by foreigners can leave the Kenyans themselves feeling flat or one-dimensional.

But Anderson, who has spent many years living in Kenya and working with refugees, does not fall into this trap. Buy a copy of City of Saints & Thieves by Natalie C. Anderson .

7. Of Goats and Poisoned Oranges by Ciku Kimeria

“It really is a strange situation to find oneself in – that of attending your own funeral.”

So begins Ciku Kimeria’s powerhouse debut Of Goats and Poisoned Oranges , which is told through vignettes of alternating perspectives.

The book follows Wambui, Njogu, and Nyambura (though theirs are not the only POVs) as their lives inextricably intertwine.

Spoiled and affluent Wambui met Njogu by accident. He was her cab driver one afternoon. Though she rarely engaged with those of a lower class than herself, his charm disarmed her.

And when she married Njogu, she never imagined he would cheat on her with another woman.

Nyambura moved to Nairobi to study and make a career for herself. Instead, the realities of the big city have left her disillusioned and waitressing to make ends meet.

After discovering the affair, Wambui fakes her own death and frames Nyambura for revenge.

If you are looking for the best books on Kenya that show the everyday lives of modern Kenyans and Kenyan culture, Of Goats and Poisoned Oranges is a great option especially as it includes footnotes for Kenyan phrases and events.

With only two books under her belt, Kimeria is already one of my favorite Kenyan writers and I can’t wait to see what she puts out next.

Read more books with the color orange in the title . Buy a copy of Of Goats and Poisoned Oranges by Ciku Kimeria .

8. Land Without Thunder and Other Stories by Grace Ogot

A lot of love is given to Grace Ogot’s contemporaries Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o (also featured here) and China Achebe (whose works you’ll find within these wonderful books about Nigeria ).

But outside of Africa – and especially Kenya – we don’t give nearly as much attention to Ogot, who was equally prolific and good.

Land Without Thunder is her first collection of short stories, many of which read as fables about Kenyan culture.

The stories show the harsh realities for many Kenyans, especially at the time it was published in 1968.

Each story shows women who must deal with questions of duty, being the perfect wife, womanhood, and independence.

In one story, a woman who has birthed twins gives up one in desperation and must deal with the consequences. Conversely, another mother finds herself defending her child against a persistent snake.

For books about Kenya, this is a must-read. Buy a copy of Land Without Thunder and Other Stories by Grace Ogot .

9. Coming to Birth by Marjorie by Oludhe Macgoye

A short, but powerful novel, Coming to Birth tells the story of Paulina who, at 16, travels to Nairobi to live with her new husband, Martin.

Martin is perfect on paper, but in reality, he wants far more control over Paulina’s life than she’s comfortable giving.

In the background of the book, Kenya is in the midst of its own struggles which begin to parallel their marriage.

Through a violent uprising to Kenya’s independence, Paulina begins to discover her own independence, as well.

Coming to Birth is one of the best classic Kenyan books, and shows a different side of Kenyan life. Like Grace Ogot, Marjorie by Oludhe Macgoye is often forgotten outside of Kenya.

Macgoye was one of the most prolific Kenyan writers and was sometimes called “the mother of Kenyan literature.”

However, this moniker is a weird one as she was actually a White Englishwoman who married a Kenyan Luo man and integrated herself into Kenyan culture. Buy a copy of Coming to Birth by Marjorie by Oludhe Macgoye .

10. The Cockroach Dance by Meja Mwangi

Meja Mwangi is one of the most internationally well-known Kenyan authors, and while his rebellion/underdog tale The Cockroach Dance is set in an unspecified place, that place is seemingly Nairobi in all but name.

The story follows Dusman Gonzaga, a man living in Dacca House. Dacca House is a squalid apartment block that is overrun by cockroaches, poverty, and despair.

His landlord, the cruel and heartless Tumbo Kubwa, owns the entire building and demands too much rent for the tenants to handle.

In an attempt to force him to lower the rent, Dusman tries to convince the other occupants of the apartment block to boycott payment to Kubwa.

However, his fellow neighbors are a mixture of conmen, witch doctors, garbage collectors, and hawkers, to name but a few.

Some are wise, some are mad, but all of them balk under the pressure and leave Dusman standing in protest alone.

But this only forces Dusman to enact a plan so devious that no one will be able to escape it.

The Cockroach Dance is one of the best Kenyan novels about the struggles of the working class in post-independent Kenya. Buy a copy of The Cockroach Dance by Meja Mwangi .

11. Nairobi Noir edited by Peter Kimani

I love the Akashic Noir series. These books are a great introduction to cities around the world with crime stories written by locals. And Nairobi Noir is no exception!

The collection covers everything from refugees, grief queerness, and Kenya’s Indian community. It’s easily one of the best books set in Kenya to introduce you to its literary greats.

Within these pages, you’ll find a diverse collection of noir stories from a wide range of Kenyan authors – many of whose work is nearly impossible to find outside of Africa, or sometimes just Kenya.

Each story focuses on one specific location within Nairobi, showcasing different sides of the city.

This also makes it one of the books to read before visiting Kenya as it will give you a sense of the city and its different neighborhoods. Buy a copy of Nairobi Noir .

Honorable Mention: Editor Peter Kimani’s novel, Dance of the Jakaranda , is another one of the best contemporary books on Kenya.

The book is about Kenya’s independence from Great Britain and combines Kenyan history with traditional storytelling.

Nonfiction Books On Kenya

12. It’s Our Turn to Eat by Michela Wrong

It’s Our Turn to Eat by Michela Wrong is a nonfiction book that reads and feels like the plot of a thriller.

One morning, Michela Wrong’s friend John Githongo arrives on the doorstep of her London flat, having fled Kenya amidst trying to end the corruption in its government in the 2000s.

He was tailed to England by Kenyan intelligence; there is a smear campaign against him back home.

What are they going to do?

Written with great skill, this eye-opening tale of one man’s decision with enormous ramifications is one of the best books about Kenya that lifts the veil on not just the political pitfalls and misdeeds in Kenyan culture, but in the world as a whole. Buy a copy of It’s Our Turn to Eat by Michela Wrong .

13. When Stars Are Scattered by Victoria Jamieson and Omar Mohamed

Set in Dadaab, the largest refugee camp in Africa (and third largest in the world), When Stars Are Scattered is one of the best books about Kenya for kids.

Although we do not see Kenya outside of the camp, Dadaab stories are an important part of Kenyan literature that is often overlooked or forgotten.

This heartwarming tween and teen graphic novel tells the story of Omar and his nonverbal younger brother, Hassan.

The brothers are Somali refugees who managed to escape during the Somali Civil War.

Unfortunately, their father is dead and they were separated from their mom while escaping.

Omar just wants a normal life. He goes to school, looks after his brother, and dreams of life in the USA. But as more and more time in the camp passes, his dreams of starting over begin to fade.

Victoria Jamieson gets top billing for this beautiful graphic novel as the artist, but it is Omar Mohamed’s story. Buy a copy of When Stars Are Scattered by Victoria Jamieson and Omar Mohamed .

14. One Day I Will Write About This Place: A Memoir by Binyavanga Wainaina

With poignancy and impressive attention to detail, Binyavanga Wainaina has created one of the most compelling books about Kenya through the account of his life and travels in his native land.

Wainaina tells of a childhood spent out of sync with his environment.

He brings to life the sights and sounds he encountered on a daily basis: the ever-present happy laughter of his brother and sister, the bicycle bells and mechanics of Nairobi, and the hairdryers of his mother’s salon.

From here we follow along as he moves from schooling to his attempts to achieve higher education in South Africa, his mother’s religious period, and his travels around Kenya.

Eventually, he wins a writing prize, and suddenly – with a career not previously considered an option – he is perhaps able to finally begin to make sense of the world and his place within it.

It is not insignificant to note that Wainaina’s homosexuality is only ever alluded to, as opposed to being directly explored.

Wainaina himself has referred to this aspect of his life as a “lost chapter” from the memoir as he did not publicly come out until 2014, three years after publication. Buy a copy of One Day I Will Write About This Place: A Memoir by Binyavanga Wainaina .

Save Your Favorite Kenyan Books For Later:

Grab the best books on Kenya here :

Thank you to TUL contributor, Dagney McKinney

Dagney (pronouns: any) is a neurodivergent writer who loves all things macabre and weird. She likes outrageously spicy food, long walks through graveyards, and historical tangents. You’ll most likely find her wandering around somewhere quiet or underground, buying salt, or whispering to camels.

What are your favorite books set in Kenya? How about top beloved Keyan writers and authors?

What books on Kenya do you enjoy? Who are your favorite Kenyan writers?

Which of these Kenyan books helped teach you more about Kenyan culture and history? Are there any that we should add to our TBR list? Let us know in the comments.

More Africa-Based Reading Lists:

Books That Take Place In Nigeria South African Novels To Take You There Ghanaian Books & Novelists Books On Egypt Books Set Across Africa

This Kenya reading list is part of the Uncorked Reading Challenge 2023 .

Dagney McKinney

Dagney (pronouns: any) is a neurodivergent writer and book nerd who is drawn to all things weird and macabre. She also loves anything to do with fast cars, unhinged anti-heroes, and salt. When she isn’t working or reading, you’re likely to find her eating Indian food, playing board games, or hiding out somewhere dark and quiet, stuck down an internet rabbit hole. The easiest way to win her over is through cats and camels.

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7 books to read to get you inspired for your trip to Kenya

Recently updated on July 19th, 2023 at 03:40 pm

If you are planning a trip to Kenya, dive into these nonfiction and fiction titles that bring the heart and soul of this African nation to life. These books about Kenya explore the rich local culture, from tough pre-colonial times to modern fiction from today.

Explore the country with words by Kenyan literature greats, or read an outsiders perspective on life in the Kenyan countryside living alongside lions and other unique wildlife.

If a trip to Kenya is on your mind, pop a few of these on your to-read list and appreciate the extra depth that insight into the local culture can bring to your travels.

Unbowed (2006) by Wangari Maathai

Start your journey in Kenyan literature with this nonfiction memoir by Nobel Peace Prize winner, Wangari Maathai. The hugely charismatic, humble single mother of three chronicles her struggle from rural life, her fight for an education and her extraordinary life as a political activist, feminist and environmentalist in Kenya. Born in a rural village in 1940, Wangari bucked the trend by not only getting an education, but going on to be the first woman to finish a PhD in East and Central Africa, and the first to head a university department in Kenya. Follow her brave story from government run-ins to replanting indigenous forests to receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of her “contribution to sustainable development, human rights, and peace”.

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A Grain of Wheat (1967) by Ngugi wa Thiong’o

Days ahead of Kenya’s independence from Britain, Grain of Wheat is set to the backdrop of the Mau Mau rebellion and follows a group of villagers whose lives have been transformed by the 1952–1960 Emergency Period, in which colonialists detained and tortured civilians. Mugo is the village’s chosen hero and he is haunted by a terrible secret. Through this work we learn about the villagers’ tangled stories, plus look at themes like compromise, betrayal and love. This book is from one of Kenya’s greatest novelists, who has contributed a great deal of postcolonial Kenyan literature.

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City of Saints & Thieves (2017) by Natalie C. Anderson

Strong writing and a rich and beautiful setting make this contemporary young adult part revenge, part murder mystery story a page turner. Tina and her mother are refugees from the Congo. They escape to Kenya where her mum is a maid for a wealthy family. Her mother is eventually murdered, leaving her and her sister orphans. Seething with revenge, Tina joins the city’s local gang, becomes a master thief and starts dreaming of a vengeance plan.

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RELATED CONTEN T: Useful Swahili words and phrases to learn before your trip to Kenya

Running with the Kenyans: Passion, Adventure, and the Secrets of the Fastest People on Earth (2012) by Adharanand Finn

Go on a trip to Kenya with outsider and avid runner Adharanand Finn. The Englishman, author and journalist takes us to the elite training camps of Kenya in this novel that is part travelogue, part memoir. A naturally gifted runner, Finn always admired the Kenyan long-distance runners and so he uprooted his young family of five and moved to a small, chaotic town in the Rift Valley. He’s there on a mission to uncover the secrets of the world’s greatest runners and Olympians, gaining advice, spiritual insight and a fresh take on barefoot running along the way. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tom | Runner 🇬🇧 (@runningtomtom)

My Maasai Life: From Suburbia to Savannah (2010) by Robin Wiszowaty

Another memoir from an outsiders perspective, Robin was a middle-class girl from suburban Illinois, USA, until her life changed during a gap year in Kenya. She ventured into an impoverished part of Maasailand where under the guidance of her adopted mother, she faces new issues like extreme poverty, drought, female circumcision, corruption and love. 

GET INSPIRED: Wonders of Kenya

West with the Night (1942) by Beryl Markham

Africa, aviation and adventure are the themes behind this 1942 classic book about Kenya. Author Beryl Markham recounts her epic life – setting records, breaking barriers and shattering social expectations. The female pilot survived crash landings, had torrid love affairs and chronicled it all in this memoir. The British-born rebel was raised in Kenya’s farmlands, trained as a bush pilot, and accepted the ultimate challenge of flying solo across the Atlantic Ocean in 1936.

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Dust (2013) by Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor

This fiction story centres around power and deceit, unrequited love, survival and sacrifice of a splintered family in Kenya. The mystery kicks off when Odidi Oganda is gunned down in the streets of Nairobi while running for his life, leaving his fragmented family to pick up the pieces. Through fictitious storytelling, learn about real historic events in Kenya from the shocking political assassination in 1969 to the Mau Mau uprisings against British colonial rule in the 1950s. 

Which books about Kenya would you choose to read first and why? Let us know in the comments…

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Lonely Planet's  Kenya  is our most comprehensive guide that extensively covers all the country has to offer, with recommendations for both popular and lesser-known experiences. Gaze at a million wildebeest migrating across Masai Mara; get close to big cats; or hike through the national parks; all with your trusted travel companion.

Inside  Lonely Planet's Kenya  Travel Guide:  

Lonely Planet's Top Picks  - a visually inspiring collection of the destination's best experiences and where to have them

Itineraries  help you build the ultimate trip based on your personal needs and interests Local insights  give you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - whether it's history, people, music, landscapes, wildlife, politics

Eating and drinking  -  get the most out of your gastronomic experience as we reveal the regional dishes and drinks you have to try

Safari Planner

Adventure Sports Planning feature

Toolkit  - all of the planning tools for solo travellers, LGBTQIA+ travellers, family travellers and accessible travel

Colour maps  and images throughout Language  - essential phrases and language tips

Insider tips  to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots

Nairobi, Southeastern Kenya, Mombasa and the South Coast, Lamu and the North Coast, Southern Rift Valley, Masai Mara and Western Kenya, Central Highlands and Laikipia, Northern Kenya, and more

ISBN: 9781787015890

Edition: 11th

Publication Date: November 2023

Nyabola, Nanjala

Duthie, Shawn Githere, Neema Mutuli Musau, Mwende Olum, Julie

352 pages, 71 maps | Dimensions: 128mm width × 197mm height

Next edition due: December 2025

Language: English

The Rough Guide to Kenya

This Kenya guidebook is perfect for independent travellers planning a longer trip. It features all of the must-see sights and a wide range of off-the-beaten-track places. It also provides detailed practical information on preparing for a trip and what to do on the ground. And this Kenya travel guidebook is printed on paper from responsible sources, and verified to meet the FSC’s strict environmental and social standards. 

This Kenya guidebook covers: Nairobi and around, The Central Highlands, Rift Valley, Western Kenya, The national parks and Mombasa Highway, The coast, The north.

Inside this Kenya travel book, you’ll find:

A wide range of sights – Rough Guides experts have hand-picked places for travellers with different needs and desires: off-the-beaten-track adventures, family activities or chilled-out breaks

Itinerary examples  – created for different time frames or types of trip

Practical information – how to get to Kenya, all about public transport, food and drink, shopping, travelling with children, sports and outdoor activities, tips for travellers with disabilities and more

Author picks and things not to miss in Kenya –  Mount Kenya, Mara Naboisho Conservancy, Thimlich Ohinga, Lake Baringo, starry nights, Lake Turkana Cultural festival, fresh coconuts, chameleons, Lake Naivasha, Nairobi National Park, coral reef, Warrior training   

Insider recommendations – tips on how to beat the crowds, save time and money, and find the best local spots

When to go to Kenya – high season, low season, climate information and festivals 

Where to go – a clear introduction to Kenya with key places and a handy overview 

Extensive coverage of regions, places and experiences  – regional highlights, sights and places for different types of travellers, with experiences matching different needs

Places to eat, drink and stay – hand-picked restaurants, cafes, bars and hotels

Practical info at each site – hours of operation, websites, transit tips, charges

Colour-coded mapping – with keys and legends listing sites categorised as highlights, eating, accommodation, shopping, drinking and nightlife  

Background information for connoisseurs  – history, culture, art, architecture, film, books, religion, diversity

Fully updated post-COVID-19

The guide provides a comprehensive and rich selection of places to see and things to do in Kenya, as well as great planning tools. It’s the perfect companion, both ahead of your trip and on the ground. 

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Book details.

This title is a part of Rough Guides Main Series

Practical travel guides series covering countries, cities and regions, with detailed factual travel tips, perfect for independent, long-stay, backpacking and budget-conscious travellers seeking comprehensive travel information and off-the-beaten track experiences

Extensive practical travel information including getting there, getting around, climate information, safety tips, accommodation explanations, food & drink advice and shopping essentials 

Curated author picks with destination highlights at the beginning of each guide

Ready-made itineraries covering every corner of the destination

Colour-coded places chapters with detailed coverage of places and sights, presented in a points-of-interest structure 

Extensive recommendations for accommodation, restaurants, shops and leisure activities for all budgets

Colour-coded detailed maps with marked-up key sights 

Insights on history and nature highlights  

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Kenya Travel Guide

Your ultimate kenya travel guide, with tips, things to do, and best things to see in kenya. great for first-time and returning travelers..

I Dream of Africa.  Travel in Kenya is exactly what one hopes for when going on safari in Africa.

The people are friendly, the scenery is spectacular and even though the country is progressing at a rapid pace, it still feels as if you have stepped back in time. 

This Kenya travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

Popular Guides

• Lake Nakuru
• Amboseli National Park

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Kenya

• Kenyan power voltage is 240 V 50 Hz;  Plug G.
• The Kenyan currency is the shilling and is around 86 shillings for 1 USD
• Virtually all banks in Kenya now have ATMs at most branches. Barclays Bank has easily the most reliable machines for international withdrawals. Standard Chartered and Kenya Commercial Bank ATMs also accept Visa but not the other major providers and are more likely to decline transactions.
• The best place to change money are a foreign exchange or “forex”  bureaus as they do not charge commission. The exchange rates are published in the  Daily Nation  newspaper.
• The water is not potable ; drink only bottled water. Or bring a Steripen to purify your water and save the environment.
• SIM Cards:  If you are planning on staying in Kenya for longer than a week, you can get a SIM Card Safaricom, Airtel and Telcom are good choices. You can get them in Nairobi or at the airport arrivals.
• Only select stores sell SIM cards but you can buy refill cards almost anywhere!
• SIM Cards : You can get a local sim card from Vodafone or Orange in Cairo. We suggest getting a SIM card at the airport when you arrive.

Things to See and Do in Kenya

• Champagne and a Hot Air Balloon  – travel in style over the Masai Mara
• Go on a Safari in the Masai Mara  – not only will you see all the big animals of Africa but you’ll witness some of the most beautiful sunsets on the planet.
• Visit Kenya’s Amboseli National Park  – to see the magnificent population of elephants and witness the extraordinary view of Mount Kilimanjaro.
• Meet the Maasai People of Selenkay  – a camp where travelers can learn about the Maasai culture while giving back to the community
• Fairmont The Norfolk: A Part of Kenyan History  – stay at the Fairmont, a hotel that played a critical role in Kenyan history.
• Lake Nakuru  – meaning “dust” or “dusty place” in the Maasai language, Lake Nakuru National Park is famous for wildlife including the thousands of flamingos nesting along the shores.
• Born Free Lives on in Kenya  – In the 60s a movie was released named Born Free based on the lives of Joy and George Adamson. The Elsamere Home in Kenya still lives on and focuses specifically on conservation.

Kenya Travel Guides

Incredible Kenya Pictures an Amazing Visual Journey

• Hot Air Balloon Masai Mara – Flying High in Kenya
• Kenya Village Visit – Empowering People

Accommodation

Budget:  You can find hostels in the range of 1,250-2,800 shillings per night. Stay in centrally located hostels and enjoy free Wi-Fi, security lockers, complimentary breakfast, hot showers, and your choice of a dorm or private room. 

Mid-Range:  For mid-range hotels, expect to pay around 2,800-11,500 shillings per night. Enjoy private rooms and suites with TVs and minibars, a fitness center, a pool, a hotel restaurant and bar, and free Wi-Fi. 

High-End:  Five-star hotels will cost around 13,000-53,000 shillings per night. These hotels come with room service, elegant hotel restaurants and polished bars, private suites with living rooms, spa services, a pool, and a sauna.

The cuisine of Kenya varies depending on the region. Popular staples include cereals like maize and millet, meats, and vegetables. Seafood is eaten frequently in coastal regions.

Ugali (cornmeal porridge) served with sukuma wiki (collard greens with onions and spices), kachumbari (tomato and onion salad), and maharagwe (bean stew) is a popular dish. Kenya has a variety of street vendors.

When out and about, look for Mahindi (grilled maize) or Mshikaki (skewered and grilled beef or goat meat on a stick). There are restaurants where you can try more Kenyan cuisine. In total, expect to pay around 2,550 shillings per day for food.

The Best Ways to Get Around Kenya

Getting to kenya:.

Flights:  The main airport to fly into is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, located 9 miles from Nairobi. Other airports include Moi International Airport (5.5 miles from downtown Mombasa) and Kisumu International Airport (5.5 miles from the city center). You can check for the best flights to Kenya on  Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Buses : Buses are a cheap way to get around, especially in major areas like Nairobi. You can find buses for both shorter and longer distances. A typical fare for a local bus is 150 shillings, while going between cities can cost about 600 shillings. If you are traveling long-distance, it helps to book a ticket at least a day in advance.

Taxis:  Taxis are another way to get around. A typical taxi ride will cost 400 shillings. Since they are usually not metered, make sure to agree on the price before starting your trip.

Car Rental:  To rent a car, you need to be at least 23-25 years old and have a U.S. driver’s license. An International Driving Permit is recommended, but not required. Prices start at 6,000 shillings per day.

Uber:  Uber is available throughout Kenya, especially in major cities. Little and Taxify are also popular services that operate like Uber.

When to go To Kenya

The best time to visit Kenya is during the dry season (end of June to October). During this time, zebras and wildebeests migrate, which makes for great wildlife viewing.

The dry season also means better weather for outdoor activities. March through May is the low season for tourists, which might bring better hotel rates and fewer crowds, but there is also heavy rainfall during this time, to the point where some camps will close down.

Where to Stay in Kenya

Nairobi Norfolk Hotel – beautiful historic hotel located in the heart of Nairobi by Fairmont. Hemingway stayed here. See our full review.

Hilton Nairobi:  Stay right in the middle of downtown Nairobi at this four-star hotel. Right near the city square and Hilton Park, this hotel comes with soundproof rooms with flat-screen TVs and minibars, 24/7 room service, a rooftop pool, a ballroom, and three hotel restaurants. 

CityBlue Creekside Hotel and Suites :  When in Mombasa, come stay at this hotel. Just a quick drive to Nyali Beach, the hotel overlooks Tudor Creek and comes with numerous amenities, including private rooms with balconies and creek views (suites come with kitchenettes and living areas), complimentary breakfast, free airport shuttle, a hotel restaurant with a wine bar, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool. 

Acacia Hotel Kisumu :  Just a mile from Lwang’ni Beach and the Kenya Wildlife Impala Park, this four-star hotel is popular for a reason. See Lake Victoria from your hotel room (upgrade to a suite for whirlpool tubs in your room), swim in the pool, workout at the fitness center, relax on the terrace, or dine at the restaurant or café. If you want to explore more of Kenya, the Kisumu Railway Station is 10 minutes away by foot.

Check out our favorite booking platforms  Booking.com ,  Tripadvisor  and VRBO   for the best deals on accommodation.

What to Pack for Kenya

Kenya is a tropical country  is characterized by a warm climate that often changes to cold in the night-time, but does not fall below sub-zero.

When packing for Kenya it is important that you keep your lodgings and planned activities in mind.

Travelers should pack transitional clothing items that can carry you from day to night or from city sightseeing to safari adventures.

• Waterproof bag  – the bag has two functions, protecting your stuff from the rain and also from the dust, especially if you’re travelling to drier regions.
• Footwear  – especially important if going you are heading on a safari! Pack a pair of lightweight, durable, waterproof and comfortable shoes and also a pair of flip-flops or sandals that you can change into after a long day of sight-seeing.
• The protection basics  – Travelers should stock up on the essentials: sunblock, mosquito/insect repellant containing DEET or a pyrethroid insecticide, sunglasses and a hat.
• Warm clothes – it does cool off at night, especially in Nairobi and the Highlands around July and August. Make sure to pack a light-weight sweater, cardigan or a pashmina scarf to keep you warm on those chilly nights.
• Cover up – in Muslim areas, including the coast, shorts, and t-shirts can be frowned upon. Try and dress modestly; wear trousers or knee-length skirts with tops that cover your shoulders.

See our packing tips:  packing list for smart travel  &  How to Pack for a Safari

Kenya Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Kenya Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Kenya  click here.

Kenya Safari – The Masai Mara Experience

Hot Air Balloon Masai Mara – Flying High in Kenya

The 8 most unmissable places in Kenya

Nov 28, 2023 • 8 min read

Here are the best places to add to your Kenya itinerary © Chris Minihane / Getty Images

A trip to Kenya is synonymous with safari, and rightfully so. Its national parks teem with wildlife, with the most famous being the Masai Mara Game Reserve, famous for the Big Five – lion, leopard, black rhino, elephant and buffalo – and the Nilotic Maasai tribe with their distinct red traditional shuka (checkered cloth).

But Kenya has much more to offer than national parks . There are forested mountains begging to be clambered up and sprawling cities teeming with vibrant social and cultural scenes. You can relax on pristine beaches, dive into underwater wonderlands in the Indian Ocean, or go on a thrilling off-road adventure. 

No matter what type of trip you seek, Kenya will provide it. Here are the best places to add to your itinerary.

Best place for culture and nightlife

A city at the center of it all, Kenya’s capital is a great stopover if you’re looking to head off on safari, hit the beach or visit incredible restaurants.

Unpack your bags and spend a couple of days eating and drinking your way across the array of bars and restaurants in Nairobi  – buzzy spots such as Cultiva , where the chef’s South American roots can be tasted in each farm-to-table dish, or  Unseen Nairobi , an independent art house and rooftop bar, where signature sandwiches serve as the perfect side to indie films.

With art galleries, open-air cinemas showcasing African films, shopping, stand-up comedy shows and museums, Nairobi is rich in cultural experiences. 

Planning tip: Even in the capital, you can get up close with wildlife. Options include seeing orphaned baby elephants at Sheldrick Wildlife Trust , feeding Rothschild giraffes at the  Giraffe Centre  and spotting four of the Big Five (not elephants) at Nairobi National Park against an unlikely backdrop of billboards, traffic and skyscrapers.

Best place for rugged exploration

Remote, inhospitable and historically drought-stricken, Turkana looks like a vast empty area on a map of Kenya, but it’s a big draw for adventurers who thrive on challenge. Although the region has an airport, the thrill is in driving, which requires a reliable 4x4 to navigate the craggy roads. 

Given how hot and arid the region is, jade-blue Lake Turkana, the largest desert lake in the world, is a wonderful surprise. Visit Eliye Springs with its sandy beaches and towering green palm trees, and you'll think you’re on Diani Beach on the Kenyan coast, or rent a speedboat and zip to Central Island , where a short hike leads up to a volcanic crater lake. Don’t forget your swimming trunks, and be wary of Nile crocodiles camouflaged on the rocks.

Fast-developing Lodwar town bursts with lively nightlife and also features its own replica of Brazil’s famous Christ the Redeemer statue. For a real glimpse into the past, drive 129km (80 miles) west to see a replica of the archeological fossil remains of Turkana Boy, which is how this region came to be known as the “cradle of mankind.”  

Planning tip: Time your visit with the annual Lake Turkana Cultural Festival in June for better insight into northern tribes such as the Borana, Rendille, Turkana and Samburu. Drive east of Lake Turkana, and you’ll get to the Chalbi Desert, which has salt pans that spread to the Ethiopian border. You can sandboard the dunes and meet villagers at North Horr to gain an insight into their culture.

3. Masai Mara

Best place for safari

One of Africa’s great bucket-list safari destinations, Masai Mara lies in Kenya’s southwestern region and stretches for 1510 sq km (583 sq miles) into Tanzania’s Serengeti. Spot all the Big Five and other wildlife here, as well as more than 450 species of birds.

Choose your own adventure and observe wildlife from a safari vehicle, aboard a hot air balloon with a champagne breakfast, on horseback or on a guided walking safari.

You can also visit Maasai villages for a first-hand insight into this legendary tribe’s way of life and their historical and spiritual bond with the land.

Planning tip:   The best time to visit  is between July and October when millions of wildebeest migrate across the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem in search of verdant pasture and to calve, an action-packed scene that often involves them being hunted down by crocodiles and big cats.

Best place for birdwatching

Kisumu is the gateway into western Kenya and boasts an idyllic proximity to one of the African Great Lakes, Lake Victoria .

Boat rides and bird-watching are the big draws here. Head to Le Pearl or Dunga Hill Camp to try tilapia, either deep-fried or slathered in a thick and delicious fried tomato and onion base, served with ugali (a local staple similar to a thick porridge).

The sunsets over the water in Kisumu are worth the trip, but you can also dance until morning to popular ohangla music at various spots in town, explore the  Impala Sanctuary or visit out-of-town caves and rock formations, such as Kit-Mikayi and the lesser-known Abindu Caves.

Zip down to the lake’s most popular islands: Mbita, Rusinga and Takawiri, where the beaches are powder white and the sunsets glow. As the sun sets, you'll see the “ghost cities” formed by hundreds of lanterns hoisted on wooden canoes by fishermen heading off to fish by night.

Planning tip:  Getting here from Nairobi requires either a 45-minute flight or at least six hours on the road, but your best bet is the passenger train service .

5. Lamu Island

Best place for relaxing beach breaks

If you’re looking for a laid-back destination with gorgeous beaches in Kenya, the Lamu archipelago is the place.

History buffs should head to ancient Lamu Town – as the oldest Swahili settlement along East Africa’s coastline, everything from the architecture to the food is storied. The streets are so narrow that it’s inaccessible by car; donkeys or walking were once the only mode of transport, but in recent years, motorbike taxis called boda-boda  have changed the vibe of the town, whizzing through the corridors blasting the latest hits. 

Hop on a speedboat and explore other spots across the archipelago, such as Kiwayu Island. Sitting in Kiunga Marine National Reserve, it’s ideal for diving or sport fishing. In Shela village, holiday homes with infinity pools that gaze out to the sea are the norm. The annual Lamu Yoga Festival in October draws students from across the world. 

An evening sunset cruise aboard a traditional Mozambican-style dhow (wooden boat) is a must. The island has lots of great restaurants, such as those at Peponi Hotel and Kijani Hotel, or have a drink at the Floating Bar. 

Planning tip: Clothing that covers shoulders and chests is expected; Lamu is a largely Muslim town.

6. Amboseli National Park

Best place to see elephants up close

With miles of dusty semi-arid grassland unexpectedly dotted with acacia trees and green marsh fed by underground water sources, Amboseli National Park features large herds of elephants wallowing in the shallows, dust-bathing or coming so close to your vehicle that you can see their eyelashes. 

Africa’s tallest mountain might be in Tanzania, but the best views of Mt Kilimanjaro are undoubtedly from Kenya. On a clear day, you can see its snowcapped peak jutting out into the sky, making an incredible shot for photographers. Come evening, kick back with a sundowner and enjoy the views, which are even better at sunrise from the vantage point of a hot air balloon. 

Wildlife use the neighboring Kimana Sanctuary as a corridor to move from the park to the Chyulu Hills and Tsavo , and your visit supports a community-owned conservancy – Kenya’s first, set up in 1996. To champion the shift from hunting to conservation in a community where killing lions was once a rite of passage, they also host a fun biennial Maasai Olympics, in which young men compete in club- and spear-throwing, high jumping and sprinting races.

7. Matthews Range

Best place for hiking

Getting to the far-flung Matthews Range in Samburu is no easy feat. Hikers can choose from various scenic routes , each just as serene as the next, but for the best experience, pick a trail that leads through a canopy of trees with emerald undergrowth so thick you'll need a machete to clear the pathway, emerging at an icy cold rock pool on River Ngeng. 

The highest peak in these mountains is 2688m (8819ft), and temperatures get as low as 10ºC (50ºF). You can camp or stay at remote lodges, like Kitich Forest Camp , where you'll be paired up with a Samburu guide who will help you navigate the area and point out wildlife by their tracks and sounds.

On your way down from the peak, try to spot Hartlaub's turaco, a bird that may as well be the Kenyan mascot because it has the same colors as the flag, and De Brazza’s monkey, a master at camouflage.

Best place for marine life

Watamu is a great hub for exploring the north coast, and the culture has such a distinct Italian influence that several locals speak the language; improbably, Italians first came here in the 1960s to work at the nearby Luigi Broglio Space Center. Many restaurants offer pasta, pizza and gelato, and even some street signs are in Italian.

Go diving or snorkeling in the marine park , join the Saturday evening parties at Papa Remo Beach , visit the striking canyons at Marafa Hell’s Kitchen (just not in the middle of the day because you might pass out from the heat), sign up for boozy sunset cruises down Mida Creek or kite surf at Che Shale .

Planning tip: If you’re here in October, watch huge humpback whales launch themselves into the air before landing back in the sea a few feet away from your boat.

This article was first published Apr 18, 2022 and updated Nov 28, 2023.

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Books to Read Before You Go on Safari

By CNT Editors

Sure, you could spend the transatlantic flight to South Africa, Kenya, Rwanda, or Botswana catching up on the blockbusters you missed in the theater—or you could spend time with novels and non-fiction stories that will help get you in the safari mindset. We asked editors and travel specialists to share their recommendations for the best books to read before your trip, from tales for kids to mysteries to true stories about the beginning of gorilla research. Best yet? You'll be prepared should that seat-back screen not work.

Love, Life, and Elephants by Dame Daphne Sheldrick

Known as the "first person to successfully raise newborn elephants," the late Dame Daphne Sheldrick recounts her career as a conservationist dedicated to preserving Kenya's wildlife, in this memoir suggested by travel specialists Cherri Briggs and Elizabeth Rand of Explore, Inc.

Available for purchase on amazon.com

Born Free by Joy Adamson

The travel specialists at Explore, Inc. also suggest Born Free for families bringing children on safari. Since its 1960 debut, the book—which tells the story of a lion cub raised by humans and later released into the wild, in search of a pride in Kenya—has been a hit with readers.

I Married Adventure by Osa Johnson

This memoir is a safari classic, says designer and Condé Nast Traveler contributor Julia Leach. It follows Americans Osa and Martin Johnson, a married couple of adventurous filmmakers who shared their travels through East and Central Africa and the South Pacific in the first half of the 20th century.

We Wish to Inform You That Tomorrow We Will be Killed With Our Families by Philip Gourevitch

" We Wish to Inform You That Tomorrow We Will Be Killed with Our Families is totally, absolutely essential reading if you're going to Rwanda. It's the most detailed, thoroughly reported, excellently contextualized report of the 1993 genocide, and it made me actually feel like I had a basic grasp of what that country went through (and successfully bounced back from). It's harrowing but necessary," says Traveler editor Andrea Whittle.

Jessica Puckett

Olivia Morelli

Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

Devra Ferst

The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith

Travel specialist Ryan Hilton of AuthentEscapes suggests diving into the the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, a whopping 18 books long. The generally lighthearted series follows detective Precious Ramotswe as she solves mysteries in and around Gaborone, Botswana.

Gorillas in the Mist by Dian Fossey

" Gorillas in the Mist was an invaluable resource before my gorilla trekking trip to Rwanda a couple of years ago," says Whittle. "It's an incredible look at the early days of gorilla research. It's informative, personal, surprisingly warm and funny, and it shows how impactful it can be to interact with these animals before you go and see them for yourself."

Listening for Lions by Gloria Whelan

Best for middle-schoolers, this coming-of-age tale set in 1919 comes recommended by Briggs and Rand. It's about an orphaned teenage girl who's forced to leave British East Africa (now Kenya) and face a new reality in England.

Into Africa by Frans Lanting

Hilton, a former photo-safari guide, suggests amateur photographers pick up coffee table books like this one, by National Geographic photographer Frans Lanting, for inspiration on how to photograph the wildlife and landscape of Africa before they head out on a game drive.

The Last Train to Zona Verde by Paul Theroux

"Theroux is one of my favorites. This one follows his travels on the West Coast, from Cape Town to Timbuktu (he hits the Okavango Delta along the way)," says Traveler editor Corina Quinn.

West With the Night: A Memoir by Beryl Markham

As a child, the author (then Beryl Clutterbuck) and her father moved from England to Kenya, where the line between what's wild and domestic was blurred (hint: she had a pet zebra). It inspired a life of adventure and this memoir, suggested by Briggs and Rand.

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Travel Guide Kenya

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Lapped by the Indian Ocean, straddling the equator, and with Mount Kenya rising above a magnificent landscape of forested hills, patchwork farms and wooded savanna, Kenya is a richly rewarding place to travel. The country’s dramatic geography has resulted in a great range of natural habitats, harbouring a huge variety of wildlife, while its history of migration and conquest has brought about a fascinating social panorama, which includes the Swahili city-states of the coast and the Maasai of the Rift Valley.

Where to go in Kenya

Elephants and the environment, kenya’s peoples, kenya’s wildlife websites, travel ideas for kenya, created by local experts.

11 days  / from 3089 USD

Bush To Beach Safari

Explore Kenya's vast national parks such as Lake Nakuru, the famous Maasai Mara and the well-known 'red' elephants in the Tsavo National Park. After a few days of waking up early to spot wildlife, relax on the fine sandy beaches of Diani in the Mombasa area.

10 days  / from 4059 USD

Best of Kenya & Tanzania

A fascinating trip across the Maasai Mara and the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Areas in Kenya and Tanzania. Learn more about the traditions and cultures of the Maasai and stare in awe at the wild roaming wildlife on your several game drives in different national parks.

7 days  / from 2791 USD

Family Safari in Kenya

Take your (grand)children and embark on the adventure of a (family) lifetime: 7 days in Kenya, with up-close animal encounters, game drives to see the Big 5 and plenty of fun day activities.

Kenya’s world-famous national parks, tribal peoples and superb beaches lend the country an exotic image with magnetic appeal. Treating it as a succession of tourist sights, however, is not the most stimulating way to experience Kenya. If you get off the beaten track, you can enter the world inhabited by most Kenyans: a ceaselessly active scene of muddy farm tracks, corrugated-iron huts, tea shops and lodging houses, crammed buses and streets wandered by goats and children. Both on and off the tourist routes, you’ll find warmth and openness, and an abundance of superb scenery – rolling savanna dotted with Maasai herds and wild animals, high Kikuyu moorlands grazed by cattle and sheep, and dense forests full of monkeys and birdsong. Of course the country is not all postcard-perfect: Kenya’s role in fighting Al-Shabaab terrorists in Somalia has resulted in reprisal attacks, while if you start a conversation with any local you’ll soon find out about the country’s deep economic and social tensions.

The coast and major game parks are the most obvious targets. If you come to Kenya on an organized tour, you’re likely to have your time divided between these two attractions. Despite the impact of human population pressures, Kenya’s wildlife spectacle remains a compelling experience. The million-odd annual visitors are easily absorbed in such a large country, and there’s nothing to prevent you escaping the predictable tourist bottlenecks: even on an organized trip, you should not feel tied down.

Experiencing difficulties with planning? Get travel ideas with our Kenya itineraries .

The major national parks and reserves, watered by seasonal streams, are mostly located in savanna on the fringes of the highlands that take up much of the southwest quarter of the country. The vast majority of Kenyans live in these rugged hills, where the ridges are a mix of smallholdings and plantations. Through the heart of the highlands sprawls the Great Rift Valley, an archetypal East African scene of dry, thorn-tree savanna, splashed with lakes and studded by volcanoes.

The hills and grasslands on either side of the valley – Laikipia and the Mara conservancies, for example – are great walking country, as are the high forests and moors of the Central Highlands and Mount Kenya itself – a major target and a feasible climb if you’re reasonably fit and take your time.

Nairobi, at the southern edge of the highlands, is most often used just as a gateway, but the capital has plenty of diversions to occupy your time while arranging your travels and some very worthwhile natural and cultural attractions in its own right.

In the far west, towards Lake Victoria, lies gentler countryside, where you can travel for days without seeing another foreign visitor and immerse yourself in Kenyan life and culture. Beyond the rolling tea plantations of Kericho and the hot plains around the port of Kisumu lies the steep volcanic massif of Mount Elgon, astride the Ugandan border. The Kakamega Forest, with its unique wildlife, is nearby, and more than enough reason to strike out west.

In the north, the land is desert or semi-desert, broken only by the highlight of gigantic Lake Turkana in the northwest, almost unnaturally blue in the brown wilderness and one of the most spectacular and memorable of all African regions.

Kenya’s “upcountry” interior is separated from the Indian Ocean by the arid plains around Tsavo East National Park. Historically, these have formed a barrier that accounts in part for the distinctive culture around Mombasa and the coastal region. Here, the historical record, preserved in mosques, tombs and the ruins of ancient towns cut from the jungle, marks out the area’s Swahili civilization. An almost continuous coral reef runs along the length of the coast, beyond the white-sand beaches, protecting a shallow, safe lagoon from the Indian Ocean.

Discover more places in Kenya

• The North Travel Guide
• The Rift Valley Travel Guide
• Western Kenya Travel Guide

Local overpopulation of elephants is usually the result of old migration routes being cut off, forcing the elephants into reserves – like the Maasai Mara and its neighbouring conservancies – where their massive appetites can appear destructive. Adults may consume up to 170kg of plant material daily, so it’s estimated that several thousand tonnes of foliage pass through the Maasai Mara elephant population’s collective gut each month. This foliage destruction puts new life into the soil, however, as acacia seeds dunged by elephants are released when dung beetles tackle the football-sized droppings, breaking them into pellets and pulling them into their burrows where the seeds germinate. Elephants also dig up dried-out waterholes with their tusks, providing moisture for other animals. Elephants are architects of their environment , setting the inter-species agenda by knocking over trees, creating deadwood habitats for invertebrates and causing hundreds of other impacts, all of which are natural functions in a dynamic ecosystem. The jury is still out on how it works when the wildlife corridors are closed, or the parks fenced in. What is not in doubt is that their ivory is increasingly valuable and poaching is on the rise again. And when they are closely managed and secured in safe sanctuaries, the elephant populations quickly reach unsustainable levels. The Kenya Wildlife Service is getting proficient at translocating elephants, moving them around to balance the numbers.

• With an area of 580,400 square kilometres, Kenya is about two and a half times the size of the UK and nearly one and a half times the size of California. The population , which for many years had a growth rate higher than that of any other country, is now beginning to stabilize and currently stands at around 44 million.

• Kenya regained independence in 1963 after nearly eighty years of British occupation and colonial rule. The Republic of Kenya is a multiparty democracy with more than fifty registered political parties.

• With few mineral resources (though potentially viable oil reserves were confirmed recently), most of the foreign currency Kenya needs for vital imports is earned from coffee and tea exports, and tourism. Most Kenyans scrape a living through subsistence agriculture and remittances from one or two family members in paid employment.

• Kenyan society consists of a huge, impoverished underclass, a small but growing middle class and a tiny elite whose success often owes much to nepotism and bribery. Unbridled corruption percolates every corner of the country and affects every aspect of the economy.

• More positively, more than 93 percent of Kenyans have a mobile phone , an exceptionally high figure for a developing country. The mobile money service M-Pesa, allowing anyone with a mobile phone to send money to another phone user, is one of the most advanced in the world, and has transformed the lives of many poor Kenyans working far away from their families.

For Kenya’s forty-plus ethnic groups, the most important social marker is language and the best definition of a tribe (a term with no pejorative connotation) is people sharing a common first language. It’s not uncommon for people to speak three languages – their own, Swahili and English – or even four if they have mixed parentage.

The largest tribe, the Kikuyu , based in the central highlands, make up about 20 percent of the population; the Kalenjin from the Rift Valley 15 percent; the Luhya of western Kenya 14 percent; the Luo from the Nyanza region around Kisumu 12 percent; and the Kamba from east of Nairobi 11 percent. Many people from these big ethnic groups have had a largely Westernized orientation for two or three generations and their economic and political influence is considerable. Which isn’t to say you won’t come across highly educated and articulate people from every tribal background. “Tribes” have never been closed units and families often include members of different ethnic background, nowadays more than ever. Politics still tends to have an ethnic dimension, however: people retain a strong sense of whether they are locals or newcomers. Inter-tribal prejudice, although often regarded as taboo, or at best an excuse for humour, is still quite commonplace and occasionally becomes violent.

Smaller ethnic groups include the closely related Maasai and Samburu peoples, who make up little more than two percent of the population. Well known for their distinctive and still commonly worn traditional dress and associated with the national reserves named after them, they herd their animals across vast reaches of savanna and, when access to water demands it, drive them onto private land and even into the big towns. Many Turkana and some of the other remote northern groups also retain their traditional garb and rather tooled-up appearance, with spears and other weapons much in evidence.

Kenya has a large and diverse Asian population (perhaps more than 100,000 people), predominantly Punjabi- and Gujarati-speakers from northwest India and Pakistan, mostly based in the cities and larger towns. Descendants in part of the labourers who came to build the Uganda railway, they also include many whose ancestors arrived in its wake, to trade and set up businesses. There’s also a dispersed Christian Goan community, identified by their Portuguese surnames, and a diminishing Arabic community, largely on the coast.

Lastly, there are still an estimated 30,000 European residents – from British ex-servicemen to Italian aristocrats – and another 30,000 temporary expats. Some European Kenyans maintain a scaled-down version of the old farming and ranching life, and a few still hold senior civil service positions. Increasingly, however, the community is turning to the tourist industry for a more secure future.

East African Wildlife Society eawildlife.org . Influential Kenya-based group, centrally involved in the movement to ban the ivory trade. Publishes the excellent Swara magazine.

Ecotourism Society of Kenya ecotourismkenya.org . This local organization promotes sustainable tourism by awarding ratings to lodges, tented camps and tour operators.

Friends of Nairobi National Park fonnap.wordpress.com. Works to keep open the migration route into the park, and raise awareness about the remarkable environment on Nairobi’s doorstep.

Green Belt Movement greenbeltmovement.org . Grassroots conservation and women’s movement founded by the Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai, who died in 2011.

Kenya Forests Working Group kenyaforests.org . Promotes sound forest management and conservation.

Nature Kenya naturekenya.org . The website of the East African Natural History Society organizes regular activities and has a good online newsletter.

Wildlife Direct wildlifedirect.org. Chaired by Richard Leakey, this is where conservation fundraising meets a network of conservationists, including more than 50 bloggers from the field in Kenya.

Travel advice for Kenya

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Kenya

• Crime and personal safety tips Kenya
• Culture and Etiquette in Kenya
• Eating and drinking in Kenya
• National Parks in Kenya
• Travel Tips Kenya for planning and on the go
• Shopping tips for Kenya
• Entertainment and sport
• How to get to Kenya
• Getting around Kenya: Transportation Tips
• Travel Health Kenya
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Kenya
• Best time to visit Kenya
• 10 days in Kenya — 5 travel itineraries

The Rough Guides to Kenya and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 06.05.2024

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Home » Africa » Backpacking Kenya Travel Guide (2024)

Backpacking Kenya Travel Guide (2024)

Kenya is a dream destination for many — and it’s not hard to see why. From the unreal wildlife encounters you can get on a safari to its stunning coastline, Kenya is home to some pretty epic bucket list experiences.

And it isn’t exactly new to the backpacking scene, either. East Africa has been a mecca for travelers for years, and Kenya is often considered one of the most stable and friendly countries to visit in the entire region.

Can you go off the beaten path, though? Oh, you sure can — and I’m here to show you how.

Whether you have a couple of weeks or a couple of months, there is much left for the intrepid traveler to explore in Kenya. This guide will help you plan the ultimate East African adventure, giving you all the tools you need to have an epic time backpacking in Kenya.

We’ll be covering the best places to visit, our suggested itineraries, some safety tips, and how to cut down costs. Your trip to Kenya is one step closer!

Why go backpacking in Kenya?

Not much can beat spotting a lion in the savannah of the Maasai Mara or a herd of elephants against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Kenya offers some of the best wildlife spotting opportunities on the continent!

Do you know about the Big Five? It’s what they call the elephant, lion, buffalo, rhino, and leopard. They’re some incredibly magnificent animals, and you’ll get to see them all when visiting Kenya’s National Parks .

But while a safari is undoubtedly a highlight of any trip to Kenya, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to know what else the country has to offer.

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Heading east to the Indian Ocean coast, you’ll find long stretches of palm tree-lined beaches with the clearest azure water. Towards the equator, the snow-capped jagged peak of Mount Kenya stands tall over the harsh arid plains. Then you’ve got the bustling metropolitan center of Nairobi!

You’ll soon find that Kenya is probably way more than you had in mind…

Linger long enough, and you’ll come to appreciate the proud and fascinating tribal landscape of Kenya’s population. The Maasai people, the Samburu, Turkana, Swahili, and Kikuyu… these are cultural experiences that are bound to stay with you for life.

With so much to see and do, I’ve prepared a few itinerary options for you to consider when backpacking Kenya. Let’s get this started!

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Kenya

Depending on what’s driving you to visit Kenya, I’d say you should spend anywhere from 10 days up to two months backpacking the country.

Most people opt for a quick safari trip and possibly a few days on the coast, but then again… most people never get to see the real Kenya.

You will, though! Below, I’m providing you with a few sexy itineraries for your Kenya trip. They’re based on my own trips there, but you can easily adjust them to suit your own adventure.

And mark my words: it’s gonna be an epic one.

Backpacking Kenya Itinerary 10 Days

Most people begin their Kenya backpacking journey in Nairobi, the capital. And while it’s had a bad reputation in the past, the city can be a hella vibrant! Save at least one full day to explore the markets and the Kenya Museum Society. You could even visit Nairobi National Park. 

From here, you’ll want to head straight to the Kenya’s number one highlight: Maasai Mara National Reserve. You can easily book a safari through any hostel or hotel — you can even book them online . The package deals are usually more convenient than booking it all separately.

After you’ve spotted the Big Five (hopefully!) in the national reserve, you can head north to Lake Naivasha, the highest freshwater lake in Kenya. It’s a popular place to spot hippos, crocodiles and many bird species.

From there, it’s onwards to Hell’s Gate National Park. It’s a great place to try to walk/bike your way through a more independent safari. And you’ve got affordable accommodation inside the park, too!

Try to allocate at least a couple of days for Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate to really enjoy the area. From there, head back east to Nairobi to wrap up. 

Backpacking Kenya Itinerary 1 Month

If you have up to a month in Kenya, you’re in for a real trip!

Following the above 10-day itinerary, you start moving further east to Mombasa. It’s the second-largest city in Kenya, and worth spending a couple of days in to check out its historical sites. Make sure you see Fort Jesus, Mandhry Mosque and the Spice Market. 

From Mombasa, you can travel north along the coast to some incredibly dreamy destinations. Depending on how fast you move, you can head all the way up to Lamu Island, stopping at Kilifi and Malindi on the way.

You should be warned, though, the Kenyan coastal towns are very enticing, and you’ll find most backpackers staying in the same spot for indefinite amounts of time — the place’s sticky!

On the way back to the start, take a detour to a lodge inside Tsavo West National Park. You can even combine a safari here with Amboseli National Park, and finish your trip with more animal sightings against the towering backdrop of the Kilimanjaro peak.

Backpacking Kenya Itinerary 6 Weeks

More than a month? What more could possibly be left to see in Kenya? Well… the entire northern half of the country! Travelers usually ignore this region completely, but for intrepid backpackers with the time, it can be the country’s ultimate adventure.

Following the one-month itinerary above, your next destination is Mount Kenya — and if you’re keen, you can spend almost a week trekking to the summit. This is one of the best spots in Africa for hiking, but you’ll want to make sure that you do this with a guide and porters.

After the summit experience, continue north by bus through Isiolo and all the way to Marsabit. From here, it’s best to arrange a driver to take you west to Lake Turkana in the wild northwest of Kenya.

You can venture further and try to reach Loiyangalani, an incredible lakeside settlement that0’s home to the Turkana and Samburu people. Take at least a couple of days to enjoy the lake and cultural experience in town.

After that, it’s back to Nairobi.

With the exception of Mount Kenya, northern Kenya is by far the least visited area of the country. You won’t find a lot of infrastructure here, especially when you compare it to the south. However, if you’re after a wild and adventurous journey, this is what you need in your Kenya itinerary.

Places to Visit in Kenya

Kenya is blessed with some incredibly beautiful landscapes, whether that’s the coast, the savannah, or Mount Kenya. And most of the top places to visit in Kenya are relatively near these locations, so it’s truly a nature lovers dream.

The southern half and the coast have been enjoyed by generations of travelers, so they’re a bit easier to navigate. Northern Kenya requires a bit more of a sense of adventure, but if you’re in for the ride… go for it!

Backpacking Nairobi

Nairobi might not have the best reputation, but it’s by far East Africa’s most cosmopolitan city. It is often nicknamed “Nai-robbery” by backpackers, but don’t let that put you away. As long as you protect your belongings and don’t carry any valuables around, you can the city’s beating heart and get a real feel for the country’s promising future. 

It has a number of great central markets where you can pick up arts, crafts, and souvenirs from all around the country. You can pick up some Maasai jewelry, wood carvings, and paintings on your way back home.

You can also head out on a safari within just kilometers of the city center. Nairobi National Park is something of an anomaly as you can literally spot giraffes and elephants against the backdrop of the city’s skyscrapers. It’s relatively small, so you can easily arrange a half or full-day trip.

Here are some of the best things to do in Nairobi:

• Maasai Market: an open-air marketplace in the middle of Nairobi where you can pick up souvenirs and crafts.
• Kenya Museum Society: A museum with exhibitions on East African traditions and history.
• Nairobi National Park: Head out on a safari just a short drive outside of the city. It’s one of the most accessible safari destinations in the world, and one of the only national parks that borders a capital city. 
• Karen Blixen Museum: You can tour the 1920s farmhouse where Blixen lived and wrote her famous memoir, Out of Africa.

Backpacking Maasai Mara National Reserve

Arguably the most famous safari park in the world, the Maasai Mara is an unmissable stop on any trip to Kenya. The reserve is contiguous with the Serengeti National Park across the border in Tanzania, and it’s the best place in East Africa to spot the Big Five.

It’s also the world-famous setting of the Great Migration, one of nature’s biggest spectacles — over 2 million animals travel from Serengeti to Maasai Mara, from July to September. 

The reserve spans an area of around 1,500 square kilometers and is characterized by open grasslands dotted with acacia trees and small hills. Sunrise and sunset missions are the real highlights because that’s when animals are most active and the lighting is killer for photos.

Most people visit the Mara on a safari package which includes accommodation, meals, and game drives — designed to take you close to the wildlife-rich spots. You’ve got packages with lodging inside the park included.

Backpacking Naivasha

Lake Naivasha is one of Kenya’s real highlights of the Great Rift Valley. It’s a shiny blue lake sitting at an elevation of just over almost 2,000 meters. It’s not far from Hell’s Gate National Park, so you can easily visit both in a matter of days.

The lake is rich in wildlife and there is a large hippo population living here. The surrounding forests are also home to buffalo, giraffe, monkeys, and a wide variety of birds.

Lake Naivasha is the perfect place to relax and get away from the chaotic hustle of Nairobi, which is just 100km away. The town itself is a very typical Kenyan urban setting with not a whole lot to hold your interest. It’s still where you’ll find transportation to Nairobi and other destinations.

Most of the budget accommodation around the lake are also based in Naivasha town, but some can also be found further around in Karagita.

Backpacking Hell’s Gate National Park

Don’t be put off by the slightly daunting name, because Hell’s Gate is a real treat to explore. The national park is just three hours northwest of Nairobi and slightly south of Lake Naivasha.

It’s characterized by volcanic rock formations, deep valleys, and high escarpments that are enough to get any outdoorsy person excited. For many, it seems to fit the bill as the real-life inspiration for The Lion King!

Amidst the incredible natural beauty, you can spot wildebeest, buffalo, and lions within the 68-square-kilometer area. It’s become increasingly popular among backpackers because it’s much more affordable than the Mara — plus, you can self-tour the park on foot or two wheels.

The easiest way of getting there is taking a minibus (or matatu) from Naivasha to the park’s entrance (Elsa Gate). And the daily park fee is only $30! An absolute steal compared to other parks in East Africa.

You’ll find plenty of bicycles to rent, but don’t expect much in terms of quality. Be sure that you at least have working brakes and you should be fine! Adventure , remember?

If you’ve packed a tent, you can also camp inside the national park at a few designated sites. This is, of course, the best way to experience it and allows you to see it once all the day-trippers have gone home. 

Backpacking Mombasa

Mombasa is the main hub of Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast, and it’s both rich in history and culture. It’s a huge bustling city and a major shipping port, but you can easily find the city’s charm amongst its historical sites. The Old Town area is where you’ll probably spend most of your time.

Kenya’s oldest city has a long history and a fascinating culture — an intoxicating blend of Arabia, India, and Africa. You’ll feel almost in a completely different country here! And it’s only really an introduction to the rest of the coast.

It’s likely that you have to return here after traveling more of the coastline since it’s well connected to Nairobi by both train and bus.

Here are some of my favorite things to do in Mombasa:

• Fort Jesus: This seaside fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Mombasa’s crown jewel. It was built by the Portuguese in 1593 and has stood the test of time as traders and colonizers have come and gone.
• Old Harbour: This is a disused harbor but the old dhow boats that are still docked here make for a picturesque image.
• Basheikh Mosque: The oldest mosque in the Old Town, it was built in the 13th century.
• Mandhry Mosque: A beautiful 16th-century mosque in Old Town.
• Spice Market: An aromatic and colorful experience in Old Town, on Nehru Road.

Backpacking Malindi

Malindi is the second largest coastal town in Kenya and it sits just 120km north of Mombasa. It’s welcomed foreigners since Vasco da Gama landed there in 1498, and has since become a popular getaway spot for travelers in Kenya.

It’s a bustling town and is not as laidback or charming as Kilifi or Watamu. Still, it makes for a great place to explore some sights and can be used as a transport hub for getting to more secluded spots on the coast.

The old town is an interesting place to wander and you can easily explore some of its history with its prominent Vasco da Gama pillar near the pier. However, its most enticing attraction is definitely the white sand and coconut palms on the water’s edge. 

Once you lay your towel down there, you may never want to move. Off the coast, the Malindi Marine National Park has incredibly crystal-clear blue water and is perfect for snorkelling and cooling off after baking in the sun.

There has been considerable resort construction along the coast in Malindi, but you can still find some relatively cheap guesthouses to stay at. If you want to escape the big town, most backpackers tend just head slightly south to Watamu, which has incredible coral reefs to explore.

Backpacking Lamu Island

Off the northern coast of Kenya is the Lamu Island archipelago. The main island, Lamu, is one of the most incredibly dream-like and picturesque spots in the country. It’s basically Kenya’s version of Zanzibar, except a lot quieter and maybe a bit more charming.

The little island is just 10km long but it is one of the culturally richest places in the whole of Kenya. Lamu’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its stunning traditional Swahili architecture.

There are no vehicles on the entire island, so you’ll be getting lost in the maze of streets with only locals and a few donkeys. The island is ringed by incredible sandbanks and floating dhow boats.

You can spend a few days by the beach, but if you’re feeling restless, take a boat to Shela Village or Manda Island which are even more secluded. 

If you’re able to, time your visit with a festival. The Lamu Cultural Festival happens every August and the Maulidi festival celebrates the prophet, Mohammed, during the third month of the Muslim calendar.

To reach Lamu, you can either fly straight there — there are regular flights from Mombasa or Malindi which are relatively affordable — or take a bus from Mombasa to Mokowe, and from there a 25-minute ferry ride.

Backpacking Amboseli National Park

If you’re in luck and Kili’s lofty peak isn’t shrouded in cloud, Amboseli is often considered one of the most picturesque national parks in all of Africa. The continent’s highest mountain, Kilimanjaro, stands across the border in Tanzania but looms high over the park for an incredible safari backdrop.

The park is known primarily for its herds of elephants, but it’s also home to cheetahs, wildebeests, giraffes, lions, and zebras. You can also spot over 370 species of birds in the park, making it a prime spot for bird watchers.

The park is not as big as the Maasai Mara, so a couple of days is usually enough to cover most of it. And just like the Mara, it’s best seen on an organized tour or safari that you can book virtually anywhere.

You’ll be close to Tsavo West National Park, which is just two hours away, so you can even combine the two for something a little different.

Backpacking Mount Kenya National Park

Mount Kenya is Africa’s second-highest peak, sitting at over 5000m. This rugged, lofty extinct volcano sits in central Kenya, almost directly north of Nairobi, and the peaks are covered in snow and glaciers year-round.

It actually has three distinct high points. The highest two are technical climbs and are reserved for mountaineers with proper knowledge and gear. The last one is Point Lenana at 4985m, which you can summit and come back down in about five days’ time.

In theory, anyone who is fit and able can climb up to Point Lenana, but around a quarter of trekkers fail mostly due to the sudden change in altitude. The weather conditions on the mountain are like nothing else in the country, so it’ll require some preparation. Get a team of guides and porters, and you’ll have one of the most thrilling experiences of your life.

Take your time and research into the tour operators before signing up and handing over any cash. You’ll need experienced guides who know the mountain, camping, and cooking equipment.

While a full summit attempt is an incredible adventure to be had, you can also opt for shorter one or two-day hikes in the lower slopes. You’ll get to take in the beauty of the landscape without risking altitude sickness. 

Nanyuki is the closest town to the mountain and has some good accommodation options.

Backpacking Loiyangalani

Looking for a place none of your friends ever heard of? Head to Loiyangalani! It’s unlikely for this town to come up in most backpacking Kenya guides, but to exclude it would be a real shame.

Loiyangalani is an incredibly fascinating place, and it should be your main destination if you’re heading north. It lies on the southeast coast of Lake Turkana in northwest Kenya, and you can reach it via a bone shattering bumpy road from Marsabit.

The town is a sort-of crossroads and home to some of Kenya’s most interesting tribes, the Turkana and Samburu. Although there’s not a whole list of attractions in town, the joy is in the journey of getting there and simply spending time with the local people.

The landscape is quite desolate and the harsh climate is a testament to the people who have called the area home for centuries. There is a local Desert Museum in town that is worth stopping by, but don’t think too much about swimming in the lake as it’s croc infested!

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Kenya

Kenya has one of the oldest running tourism industries in Africa, but it’s still not too hard to get off the beaten path. Most people traveling here just head to the Mara and the coastal towns, with very few exploring elsewhere.

This means that if you prefer to travel without the crowds, you can easily have Kenya’s landscape and culture to yourself.

Northern Kenya is by far the least visited area, and you’ll likely not encounter another foreigner here for days. This is certainly Kenya’s biggest adventure! You’ve got incredible cultural experiences and some crazy wildlife sightings waiting for ‘ya.

However, if you’re running low on time, you can try avoiding the crowds of safari jeeps and high-end resorts by opting for lesser-known parks and towns.

You can head to Tsavo West National Park and Tsavo East National Park, which are both between Nairobi and Mombasa and home to the Big Five. On the coast, try Tiwi Beach (south of Mombasa) or Kilifi to the north.

They might not boast recognizable names, but you can easily enjoy the highlights of Kenya without the crowds at these spots. 

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Top Things to Do in Kenya

Kenya packs a bunch of exciting activities for backpackers! To give you a little inspiration for the trip, I’ve put together a list of the ultimate things to do in Kenya:

1. See the Big Five on a Safari

Whether you decide to plan your own African safari on a budget or splash out on one of those more typical bougie tourist experiences complete with bucket hats and binoculars – a safari is easily the number one thing to do in Kenya. This is one of the best places in Africa to spot the Big Five, and with the number of national parks available here, you can easily hop around for weeks at a time.

Elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos — this is your chance to see them all. Maasai Mara National Reserve is the most popular and likely place to spot them all on the same trip. 

2. Witness the Great Migration

Hold on tight, because you’re in for one of the world’s greatest spectacles. The annual wildebeest migration in Kenya is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and the reason most people schedule their trip between July-September.

The migration is the largest mammal migration in the world and is one of the most breathtaking sights you’ll ever see. Two million wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes migrate from Serengeti National Park in northern Tanzania to Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Park.

3. Climb Mount Kenya

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for the ultimate bucket list experience, climbing Africa’s second-highest mountain is one of the best things you can do.

The two highest points of the peak are technical climbs, but Point Lenana is achievable on around a 5-day trek. It stands high up at almost 5000m!

If you don’t want to attempt a summit trek, you’ve also got shorter options for 1 or 2-day hikes inside the national park. 

4. Relax on the Beach

Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline is a true paradise. Adorned with palm trees, clear water, and white sandy beaches, the coastal towns in Kenya are an absolute delight.

This is the mecca of chill in Kenya. Come here if you’re looking to rest and relax — there’s plenty of opportunities to snorkel and explore the underwater world, too.

5. Explore the Old Town of Lamu

Lamu’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an incredible place to escape for a while. The small Swahili port town on the island of Lamu has an incredible blend of unique architecture and dhow boats floating in the water that reflect its Portuguese, Arabic and Indian influences.

Wander the skinny streets to admire the carefully preserved heritage and fascinating history of Kenya’s coast.

6. Visit a Maasai Village

The Maasai tribe is one of the most fascinating in the world. They inhabit the southern part of Kenya, around the Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Parks.  

They have been welcoming foreigners to their land for many years and villages often allow short visits by people wanting to have a brief glimpse into their traditional way of life.

This is something you don’t wanna miss!

7. Eat Nyama Choma

If you a real foodie, you have to try nyama choma, Kenya’s beloved national dish. And what is it, you may ask? Barbecued goat meat! They serve it on every possible occasion in Kenya.

You can also find it on most menus in restaurants. If you want to go full traditional, pair it with a side of ugali (maize) and eat it with your hands. Make your momma proud.

8. Cycle through Hell’s Gate

One of the most unique African safaris you can do is a cycle tour of Hell’s Gate National Park. The park is part of the Great Rift Valley and is characterized by a dramatic volcanic landscape.

There’s a range of different activities in the park, but one of the best things you can do is to grab a bike and take a self-cycle tour. The trails are well defined, and you can spot zebras, wildebeest, and even lions as you ride.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Backpacker Accommodation in Kenya

You’ll find accommodation options in Kenya for every end of the spectrum, and while the safaris might take a toll on your wallet, you can still practice the art of budget travel !

Despite having a longstanding history of tourism, Kenya doesn’t really have a solid hostel network. But that doesn’t mean that it’s expensive; you can still find plenty of affordable guesthouses in towns around the country. 

As a country that prides itself on its protection of wildlife and the environment, there are many great and affordable eco-lodg e in Kenya .

It’s not uncommon to find private rooms in basic guesthouses for the price of a dorm bed in other countries, but you’ve got other options to save up.

If you really want to travel Kenya on a shoestring, you can bring a tent and stay in campgrounds around the country — or wherever you feel like calling home, as long as it’s not a massive lion’s home already.

You can also try Couchsurfing or volunteering to save money, as you’ll often get a much more real experience, and accommodation included in the package. Try checking Workaway, for example!

The Best Places to Stay in Kenya

Kenya backpacking costs.

East Africa is generally a pretty affordable region to travel to, and it’s been on the Africa backpacker circuit for many years now. The cost of living in Kenya is pretty low, so accommodation, transport, and food won’t really break the bank.

In general, a safari will be the most expensive thing on your Kenya itinerary. These are expensive endeavors with exorbitant national park fees, but since most of it goes back to the conservation efforts, it ain’t all that bad in the end.

Still, a safari or climb up Mount Kenya will easily blow your daily budget out of the water and there’s not a whole lot you can do about it. 

A realistic daily budget for Kenya is around $30-50 per day, and this includes a guesthouse room or dorm bed, daily meals, groceries, transport, and maybe a beer or two.

You can push it even lower if you eat 100% local, stick to the crowded minibus, and camp. Or Couchsurf and make new friends! Best to try Couchsurfing once Covid has subsided.

A Daily Budget in Kenya

Money in kenya.

The Kenyan shilling is the official currency. ATMs are scattered around the country, and you can usually always find one (even in small rural towns).

It helps to travel with a wad of cash though, as almost all shops, restaurants, and ticket offices will only accept cash from foreigners. 

You should also keep small bills on you as much as possible and only use larger bills for paying things like accommodation. Most small vendors don’t appreciate having to break large bills for a small purchase.

You can easily get cash out at ATMs with most foreign cards but in larger cities, you’ll also find currency exchange shops.

Large expenses like safaris and treks are usually quoted in USD or Euros, but most of the time you can still pay in shillings as long as you can get that amount out of an ATM — and it will probably take a few withdrawals!

Travel Tips – Kenya on a Budget

• Carry a water bottle: This is both a budget AND sustainable travel tip. You can save money on bottled water and prevent plastic from being thrown into a landfill by bringing along your own bottle to refill. 
• Consider packing a tent: Camping is the best way to save extra money. There are plenty of places to camp in Kenya, with extraordinary landscapes to enjoy. To get some inspiration, check out our breakdown of the best tents to take backpacking .
• Cook your own food: If you’re really on a budget, then cooking your own meals is the way to go. Most Airbnb properties will have a proper kitchen, but you can also consider bringing a portable backpacking stove along if you plan on doing some camping/trekking.
• Volunteering: This is a popular thing to do in Kenya and is a great way to spend time in one place for a while. Usually, you can get free accommodation in exchange for work . Always do your research to ensure you are embarking on an ethical volunteering project.
• Do as locals do: The best way to stick to a tight budget anywhere you travel to is by sticking to what the locals do. Use the minibus to get around, pick unassuming local restaurants, and shop at local markets — haggle away, fellow backpacker !

Why Should You Travel to Kenya with a Water Bottle?

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful!

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller.

STOP USING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC! If you’d like some more tips on how to save the world .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Best Time to Travel to Kenya

Kenya’s weather patterns can be a little unpredictable. It’s a combination of hot, dry, and wet seasons, but you’re unlikely to ever feel really cold unless you hike up Mount Kenya.

In general, the weather is hot and dry from December-March, and hot and wet from April-June when the long, heavy rains arrive. July-October is warm and dry, and November to early December might bring along a few short rainfalls.

The coast is slightly different, and its weather is influenced by the Indian Ocean’s monsoon — this brings heavy rain from May to October. 

The first high season in the country runs from December to January because that’s when the weather is more pleasant across the country; the second coincides with the Great Migration (July-September), which is peak animal-sighting season.

Don’t let the wet seasons in Kenya put your travels on hold, though, as the rains tend to come for only brief periods of the day. You’ll also have fewer crowds in the parks and the landscape will be glowing green!

Festivals in Kenya

Kenya has surprisingly few festivals that are worth planning your trip around, but there are still a few that might interest you:

Lamu Cultural Festival: One of the best times to be in Lamu is during the cultural festival where the beauty and culture of the Swahili town are on full display. It happens every November for around 3 days and includes sailing, donkey races, and Swahili delicacies. 

Maulidi: This one is also held in Lamu, during the third month of the Muslim calendar. The festival has been going since the 19th century and consists of traditional music, dance, art exhibitions, and dhow races. 

Lake Turkana Festival: For a truly colorful and vibrant festival, this one is an incredible experience. The Lake Turkana Festival celebrates the Turkana tribe in Loiyangalani, on the coast of Lake Turkana. It runs every August for 3 days, showcasing traditional dresses, songs, and dances from 14 different tribes.

What to Pack for Kenya

If you’re wondering what to pack for your Kenya trip, here’s a list of my recommended essentials.

Travel Security Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

‘Monopoly Deal’

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Staying Safe in Kenya

While overall Kenya is a pretty safe country to visit, you’ve likely heard of stories related to crime and terrorist attacks. To get the bad stuff out of the way, there is a bit of a crime issue in major cities like Nairobi and Mombasa.

Pickpocketing is likely the worst offense that happens to foreigners. In crowded places, keep all of your valuables hidden or held in your hand. And keep your bags with you at all times — this is safe travel 101 !

The other major issue concerning people is terrorism. There are foreign government travel warnings for much of the coastline of Kenya and towards the Somali border for this reason.

Attacks have happened in the past, with members of Al Shaabab entering Kenya from Somalia. The most well-known incident, and one of the worst, occurred in 2013 in Nairobi’s Westgate Shopping Mall.

You should not ignore these situations, because they’re very real. But you should also have in mind that not only are they not directed at tourists, but they’re also not frequent. The situation has been stable even on the coast for some time now. 

As long as you use common sense and your special backpacker powers — we do have a reputation, don’t we? — you’ll do just fine. Carrying a money belt with you is a fine way of keeping your essentials protected at all times.

As a female solo traveler, I can tell you I’ve never had any bad experiences, and I’ve traveled to Kenya on three different occasions. I can certainly vouch for the fact that it’s a safe country for women and solo travelers too. 

Sex, Drugs and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Kenya

Kenyans love to get it down on the weekends, and you’ll find bars and clubs in major towns and cities around the country. Nairobi has by far the best nightlife and there are a variety of places that are open until sunrise.

If you’re keen on a good drink and boogie over the weekend, definitely go for it. East African hip-hop and RnB is probably going to be the soundtrack.

Beer is the most popular drink, along with whiskey, vodka, and basically any other spirit you can think of. It’s relatively cheap too, which helps, but make sure you maintain that common sense we’ve just talked about.

Drinking a bit too much can make you silly (and vulnerable), you know that!

Weed/hash and khat (a herbal stimulant that is chewed) are the most common drugs you’ll come across in Kenya. It’s not uncommon for the youth to smoke or chew, especially in the coastal areas.

Hard drugs are also becoming a prevalent problem in Kenyan society, however, I didn’t come across anything during my time there. 

Contraception is not as accessible and reliable as what you might be used to in your own country. And even though you’ll find condoms at most supermarkets and pharmacies, I wouldn’t rely on that. Come prepared!

Or don’t come at all… eheh. But seriously, stay safe.

Travel Insurance for Kenya

You never know what can happen on the road, and Kenya is unpredictable! Getting good backpacker insurance is a good way to cover your ass in case things go south.

I’ve been using World Nomads for some time now, and already made a few claims over the years. You can even buy or extend a policy mid-trip which really comes in handy.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Getting into Kenya

Most people arrive in Kenya by air. The main airport is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, which is around 30 minutes to one hour from the city center. You can also fly into Mombasa at Moi International Airport, but it’s not as commonly serviced internationally. 

Crossing into Kenya overland is quite common for backpackers, particularly between the East African nations. The borders with Tanzania and Uganda are relatively easy to cross and can even be entered with an eVisa.

There are regular bus services from Tanzania to Kenya across five different border posts, although the Namanga crossing is the most common — it connects Arusha to Nairobi. But then you’ve also got Loitokitok…

Between Uganda and Kenya, there are two border crossings open. The most common is Busia, which connects Kampala with Nairobi with regular bus services. With other borders, things get a bit trickier — there are no open crossings from Somalia to Kenya, for example.

The Ethiopian and South Sudanese borders are more precarious and entry requirements change all the time. However, you can still cross them with appropriate visas from an embassy, it’s just a long and arduous journey.

Entry Requirements for Kenya

Kenya’s visa policy makes it relatively easy for most travelers to get in. People from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and EU nations require a visa, but it’s easy to get.

eVisas are the most convenient and you can apply for one online . They can take up to seven days to process and give you 90 days with a single entry. You can also get multiple entry visas, but the price is heftier!

If your plan includes other East African countries, you should absolutely consider an East African Tourist Visa. It allows you to roam freely between Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. And it runs for three months — you save money, and you save the hassle of getting individual visas.

Get 15% OFF when you book through our link — and support the site you love so dearly 😉

Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

How to Get Around Kenya

Kenya is relatively easy to get around. You’ve got a wide range of transportation options depending on your budget and time constraints.

You can find domestic flights with Kenya Airways between Nairobi and regional cities. Even into national parks! It’s best to book way in advance, especially during the high season.

Trains are not so common in East Africa, but the new high-speed Nairobi to Mombasa rail service is certainly something you should consider. It cuts the journey time from a full day on a bus to just 4.5 hours by train. A lower-class ticket is around $9. 

By far the most common way of getting around Kenya is by bus. There is an endless network of buses and minibuses (called matatus), which service almost every town and city in the country.

Buses are all run by private companies, so comfort, quality, and speed vary wildly. Still, they’re the most convenient and cheapest way to move around — unless, of course, you’re a hitchhiking ninja . A bus ticket from Nairobi to Mombasa can cost around $6.

For all forms of transport, it’s best to book directly at stations or ticket offices. You’ll find bus ticket counters jammed up at major stops, but you can also pay directly to the driver.

Traveling by Motorbike in Kenya

Many travelers opt to bring their own motorcycle to Kenya, often as part of a bigger African odyssey. Your bike needs registration papers, insurance, and a valid driver’s licence. You also need a  Carnet de passage en douane , which is basically a passport for your vehicle to avoid paying import tax.

It’s common for people to ship their bikes in and out of Kenya from Mombasa to other destinations, although this is obviously a pricey endeavour. 

Having a motorbike allows you to explore the country at your own pace, and it can also enable you to see places that would otherwise be unreachable!

Be aware though that Kenyans are notoriously crazy drivers. If you’re riding a bike, you’re certainly the weaker element. Be aware of trucks and buses in particular, as they don’t tend to care much about other vehicles.

Hitchhiking in Kenya

This is a common practice in rural parts of Kenya, and locals will certainly understand what you’re doing. Flag them down on the side of the road, and good luck…

Hitchhiking is one of the main of getting around parts of Kenya where public transport doesn’t reach. And it’s one hell of an experience! Be wary though, as it’s not necessarily the safest option as a foreigner — do it in pairs if you can.

Working and Staying Connected in Kenya

While most people don’t think of Kenya as a remote-working hub, it’s certainly possible to work and stay connected in Kenya. Nairobi is by far the best option, as there is a growing start-up and digital nomad community.

Nairobi is also a popular place to live for expats in general, with many aid agencies and international companies basing there.

The city has over 30 co-working spaces with Nairobi Garage in Westlands being the first and most popular. You’ve also got Ikigai with four different branches across the city.

Wi-Fi at cafes is not usually reliable, but getting a SIM card in Kenya is pretty cheap (and easy). Safaricom is the most reliable 4G provider, and you can always top it with more data. Pick one up at the airport or at one of their shops in Nairobi.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Teaching English in Kenya

Teaching English is probably one of the most popular options when it comes to volunteering in Kenya . Although many people in Kenya are relatively fluent, there is a constant demand for help in schools, especially in rural areas.

Most English teaching gigs are volunteer-based, with accommodation and food in exchange. However, with a course certificate from MyTEFL and a Bachelor’s Degree, you can often find paid work teaching in private schools. 

Volunteer in Kenya

Volunteering overseas is a great way to experience a culture whilst doing some good in the world. There are lots of different volunteer projects in Kenya which you can join ranging from teaching, to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much anything!

Kenya is a developing country where volunteers are always in high demand. Community development, social work, and teaching are all areas where backpackers can make a huge difference to small communities. You’ll also find opportunities to help out with eco-projects, like tree planting or agriculture. Most travelers only need a tourist e-visa to volunteer in Kenya, which you’ll need to have before arriving.

If you want to find volunteering opportunities in Kenya, then we recommend that you Signup for Worldpackers –  a volunteer platform that connects local hosts directly with traveling volunteers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10 when you sign up. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers are usually very well-managed and reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering, do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

What to Eat in Kenya

Food in Kenya has a plethora of influences from early Arab settlers to Indian railway workers. And while it might not be anything extraordinary to write home about, you should still try it! I found it delicious, and there’s plenty of options for meat lovers and vegetarians alike. 

Kenyan food is very carb and meat-heavy. The main staple is corn or maize, which is ground into coarse flour and then cooked into a thick paste/cake called ugali. This is then served as a side dish with a stew or sauteed spinach known as sukuma . For many backpackers, ugali is the one thing they have to learn to acquire a taste of in Kenya.

If you can’t get into the ugali, rice is the other main carb staple and can be served instead of ugali. With a bit of a South Asian twist, you’ll often find chapati or flatbread served with the stew, too.

Kenyans consider meat a staple to their diet, which is bad news for vegetarians. Nyama choma (aka grilled goat) is the national dish and is often on most menus, but you’ll also find sauteed spinach dishes, sukuma, and plenty of other legumes as well.

The Best Food in Kenya

Here are some of the best foods that you should try in Kenya.

• Nyama choma: Grilled or barbequed meat, usually goat, served with relish and eaten with your hands.
• Ugali: Kenya’s staple food dish is made of coarse, white maize meal cooked into a spongey cake. It’s served with relish, spinach, and stew, and you eat it with your hands!
• Mandazi: A sweet or savoury deep-fried dough, similar to a doughnut. You usually eat it in the morning with chai.
• Chapati: Flatbread inspired from the Indian continent and served as a side dish to stews. 
• Githeri: A hearty bean stew made with an assortment of beans in a tomato sauce. It can sometimes come with potatoes!
• Pilau: Another aromatic Middle Eastern-inspired dish in Kenya is pilau. This fragrant rice dish is usually made with beef or chicken. 

Kenyan Culture

Kenya is far from a homogenous country in terms of ethnicity and culture. There are around 13 main ethnic groups and 27 additional groups scattered across the country.

There’s also a significant portion of Kenya that is of non-African descent, with large populations of Indian, Arab, and European immigrants living here.

This makes Kenya a fascinating cultural experience. And one that you can’t describe as one whole: from the Maasai villages in the south to the Turkana in the north, all the way through the Mijikenda tribe on the coast… you’ll witness a change in language, dress, and traditions as you move from one side of the country to the other.

There is real distrust between some of the tribes in Kenya, too. It’s not uncommon for a Maasai to tell you to never trust a Kikuyu and vice versa. Many of these animosities date back generations and are more tongue in cheek these days.

In general, the different tribes live together in relative harmony, although in rural Kenya they still tend to stick to their traditional territory.

Kenyans are incredibly friendly, heart-warming, and kind people. You will usually always be met with a big smile and a friendly chat, or a helping hand. The Kenyan people hold a dear place in my heart and is the main reason that I return to the country again and again!

Speaking Swahili – Useful Travel Phrases

It is believed that over 50 languages are spoken in Kenya, belonging to the various tribal groups in the country. However, English and Swahili are the two official languages. Swahili was adopted as a common language and is taught in schools so that the entire country can understand one another.

However, English is slowly taking over that role and most young people prefer to speak English, especially in Nairobi. The youngsters usually know their English well, but the older generations are more into their tribal language and Swahili.

Many people are multilingual, so it’s unlikely that you run into a lot of communication barriers — although to me it just makes traveling more exciting!

Before you start your journey backpacking Kenya, be sure to learn a few useful phrases in Swahili:

Jambo – Hello

Habari gani – How are you

Nzuri – Fine

Kwa heri – Goodbye

Asante sana – Thank you very much

Unasema kiingereza – Do you speak English?

Sielewi – I don’t understand

Samahani – Excuse me

Books to Read About Kenya

• Out of Africa : By far one of the most famous books about Kenya. This is the memoir of Karen Blixen, who lived at the foot of the Ngong Hills and managed a coffee plantation from 1914 to 1931. The language can be a little hard to swallow, but it’s a testament to the time it was written.
• A Grain of Wheat : A fiction book set in the time of the Mau Mau rebellion in a small village. It’s written by Ngugi wa Thiong’o who was 25 when Kenya received independence and reflects the struggles of colonialism in his work.
• Dust : This book takes a more current look at Kenyan society. It starts with the violence that followed the 2007 presidential elections and questions the brutality in the society by going back to the time of independence. Shortlisted for the Folio Price in 2015!
• Unbowed: A Memoir : This tells the story of the incredible woman who led an environmental and social movement to save the Karura Forest in Kenya. She tells her story as she went from peasant to movement leader to Nobel laureate. 

Final Advice Before Visiting Kenya

There are very few places in the world that can offer this much variety in landscapes, wildlife, culture, and natural beauty. Kenya is truly one of the most memorable places that I’ve ever traveled to, and I’m sure you’ll soon be on my side!

I hope this guide gave you the tools and motivation you needed to plan your Kenya trip. The country’s been welcoming tourists for quite some time, so you’re unlikely to run into any issues while navigating it.

Still, you should always keep in mind that you’re a mzungo (a foreigner) in the country. Be respectful of the people, the wildlife and the environment. Take photos, but ask first. Leave your footprints, but no other trace behind.

Backpacking Kenya is a magical experience and one that I didn’t know I needed so deeply. Enjoy your time there, amigos!

Elisha Donkin

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Hi Christian, We have a newly built exclusive luxury camp in Taita hills, fronting a river with 4 waterfalls . This should be perfect for you and your friend as it is 20 minutes away from Tsavo east. You will also enjoy privacy as the property only takes 2 guests at a time. Karibu Kenya.

Hi Elisha – my friend and I want to go to Kenya this summer in late July. We’re both guys in our late 20s and we want to do a mix of safaris (wildebeest migration at the Mara then maybe one other park) and seeing some of the native tribes. I’ve been corresponding with one safari guide but their price for 4 nights in the Mara is around $3500 for travel, accommodations, food, park entry and drives. I’m also not sure who the clientele will be, but I’m worried that it could end up being a bunch of families with kids (not that I have anything against travelling families, just not the vibe we’re looking for). Can you recommend any tour providers or camps for us considering what we’re looking for? Thanks!

Hi Christian

Sorry but we don’t have any tips for tour providers. We do know that they can be very expensive and prices have reportedly spiked owing to a high, post COVID demand.

Best of luck.

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Kenya Safari Tours - Compare 2,101 Packages

Kenya is the historical home of the East African safari, a land of sweeping savannah grasslands inhabited by charismatic megafauna, including big cats, the Big Five (elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard and rhino) and just about everything in between. Elsewhere, landscapes here stir the soul with deserts in the north, dense forests in the west, Rift Valley lakes in the center and tropical coast out east. The result for those on safari is an experienced safari industry ready to show you a seemingly endless parade of wildlife against one of the most beautiful backdrops in Africa.

3-Day Flying Masai Mara - Elangata Olerai Luxury Camp

$1,753 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Mid-range Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Nairobi (End)

Dallago Tours Kenya Tanzania   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  57 Reviews

3-Day Masai Mara Mid-Range Private Safari

$832 to $1,253 pp (USD)

Mufasa Tours and Travels   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.9 /5  –  386 Reviews

6-Day Nairobi- Mara-Nakuru-Amboseli-Tsavo East-Mombasa

$1,375 to $1,529 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Budget Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Amboseli NP, Tsavo East NP, Mombasa Beaches, Mombasa (End)

Bienvenido Kenya Tours and Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.3 /5  –  77 Reviews

6-Day Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, Masai Mara Luxury Safari

$2,166 to $3,364 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Amboseli NP, Lake Naivasha (Naivasha) , Masai Mara NR, Nairobi (End)

Kevic Tours and Travel   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  44 Reviews

6-Day Fascinating Budget Kenya Classic Safari

$880 to $1,155 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 7 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Amboseli NP, Nairobi (End)

Lenchada Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.9 /5  –  736 Reviews

8-Day Exceptional Luxury Safari -Magical Kenya Fairyland

$3,212 to $3,850 pp (USD)

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Amboseli NP, Lake Naivasha (Naivasha) , Lake Nakuru NP, Masai Mara NR, Nairobi (End)

Apodiformes Adventures   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.8 /5  –  175 Reviews

7-Day Magical Kenya Luxury Safari

$4,400 pp (USD)

Estleon Adventures   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  118 Reviews

3-Day Masai Mara 4x4 Luxury Safari with Sundowner

$820 to $1,351 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Luxury Tented Camp

Bigmac Africa Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  50 Reviews

5-Day Amboseli/Nakuru/Masai Mara

$1,551 to $2,217 pp (USD)

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Amboseli NP, Lake Nakuru NP, Masai Mara NR, Nairobi (End)

Tekko Tours and Travel   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  129 Reviews

3-Day Amboseli Safari from Mombasa via Train

$622 to $854 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Budget Tented Camp

You Visit: Mombasa (Start) , Amboseli NP, Mombasa (End)

Keshi Tours   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  32 Reviews

4-Day Affordable Masai Mara Safari

$3,010 to $4,750 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Luxury+ Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Greater Masai Mara, Nairobi (End)

Discover Africa Safaris

5.0 /5  –  427 Reviews

8-Day Kenya Safari & Beach Holiday

$6,474 to $7,666 pp (USD)

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Diani Beach, Nairobi (End)

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

8-Day Flexi Circuit Safari

$2,107 to $2,934 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Sweetwaters (Chimp Sanctuary) , Lake Nakuru NP, Masai Mara NR, Lake Naivasha (Naivasha) , Amboseli NP, Nairobi (End)

Kameraz of Afrika   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.8 /5  –  100 Reviews

7-Day Luxurious Escape into the Kenya Wilderness

$4,124 to $4,700 pp (USD)

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Lake Naivasha (Naivasha) , Amboseli NP, Nairobi (End)

Jamlan Holiday Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.9 /5  –  19 Reviews

6-Day Let's Go Masai Mara Nakuru and Amboseli in a Group

$880 to $1,100 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge & Tented Camp

Jungleroam Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  33 Reviews

5-Day Amboseli, Lake Nakuru and Masai Safari

$1,375 to $1,650 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

Madukha Tours and Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.7 /5  –  27 Reviews

10-Day Luxury Bush and Beach Safari

$3,996 to $4,730 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Resort

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Lake Naivasha (Naivasha) , Amboseli NP, Diani Beach, Nairobi (End)

Rochar Africa Expeditions   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.9 /5  –  15 Reviews

3-Day Masai Mara Group Safari - Emayian Luxury Camp

$880 to $1,353 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 7 people per vehicle) Luxury Tented Camp

5.0 /5  –  16 Reviews

3-Day Mara Chui Resort Joining Group

$495 to $748 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge

Axis Africa Expedition & Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.9 /5  –  1099 Reviews

4-Day Masai Mara & Lake Nakuru Group Budget Safari Tour

$523 to $754 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 7 people per vehicle) Budget Tented Camp & Hotel

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Nakuru (City) , Lake Nakuru NP, Nairobi (End)

African Sermon Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.9 /5  –  92 Reviews

Related Searches

• Kenya Tour Operators
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• Kenya Honeymoon Safaris
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• Kenya Safari & Mombasa
• Diani Beach Beach Holidays

8 Questions About Kenya Safaris

Answered by

Anthony ham.

When is the best time to visit Kenya?

“June to October is an excellent time for Kenya tours. During these months, the weather is generally dry (although it can get really hot in October and at the tail end of September) and most trails are open. This also coincides with the wildebeest and zebra migration in the Masai Mara National Reserve. This is the Dry season, and as it progresses, water sources for animals tend to dry up and become fewer, drawing animals in numbers to those that remain. One downside is that high-season prices apply during the Dry season months. Crowds are also larger – in some parks, the queue of safari vehicles can take away something from your experience, and some areas of the Masai Mara can be completely overwhelmed with vehicles during the migration. In the Dry season, June is one of my favorite months to visit. Visiting from November to February also has its devotees. At this time, migrating birds arrive, the rains rarely disrupt travel, and the country is transformed into a lovely shade of green. Most travelers avoid March to May because heavy rains are always possible and can transform safari trails into muddy bogs. That said, prices are lower and I visited once in April and was lucky to find very few other visitors (except for local visitors around Easter) and clear skies.”

Why visit Kenya? What are the major attractions?

“Outstanding wildlife is the main reason to visit Kenya. While many visitors come for the migration, Kenya is excellent year-round, with a large number of world-class national parks – apart from the Masai Mara, there’s Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks and Samburu National Reserve – where superb wildlife viewing is almost guaranteed. It all adds up to Kenyan safari possibilities of great variety. Kenya is Big Five territory, with healthy populations of elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard and rhino, but the birdlife is also outstanding, as is the cultural element – this is the land of the Maasai, Samburu, Turkana and others. The sheer number of habitats, too, make for wonderful scenery – endless horizons in the Masai Mara, tropical forests in Kakamega Forest National Reserve, the starkly beautiful parks of the north, and peerless Kilimanjaro views from Amboseli.”

What does a Kenyan safari cost?

“It all depends on what sort of safari you want and can afford. Kenya has more variety than most other African safari destinations, with excellent options from the lower end of the pricing scale (from US$200 per person per day) to luxury Kenya safaris (up to US$1,000). While accommodation is partly what will determine the price for many travelers, it can also depend on how you wish to travel between the various parks. Air transfers, usually via Nairobi, can be expensive, but dramatically reduce the amount of time you’ll spend on the road, thereby maximizing the amount of time you’ll get to spend in the parks themselves. Remember also that most Kenya safari packages will include transport, accommodation, all meals and activities (including game drives).”

How is the wildlife viewing?

“It can vary from park to park. Most of the more popular parks that you can visit on a Kenya tour – Amboseli, Masai Mara, Samburu and Lake Nakuru – have fabulous wildlife-viewing opportunities. Dense wildlife populations in all of these parks make them good all-round safari destinations that enable you to see as many animals (and different species) as you can in a short period of time. Other parks are more specialist – such as the birds and primates of Kakamega, and the sitatunga in Saiwa Swamp National Park – allowing you to tick off a hard-to-find species, usually without the crowds. And a more exclusive Kenyan safari experience is possible in the conservancies of Laikipia Plateau – you pay more, but, with the exception of Ol Pejeta Conservancy, crowds are non-existent and wildlife viewing is excellent. At most of these conservancies, you can get off-road as well, meaning that you’ll get a lot closer to the animals than you will in a national park.”

How safe is Kenya for tourists?

“For the most part, a Kenya safari is safe, but there are some important things to know. Nairobi and, to a lesser extent, some other Kenyan cities have a reputation for violent crime. I’ve spent a significant amount of time in Nairobi and elsewhere and have never once had a problem, but it does happen often enough to mean that you should always be careful and follow local advice when it comes to these cities. Another potential danger comes from traveling on the country’s roads – the accident rate is extremely high. You can minimize the danger by spending as little time as you can in Nairobi and other cities (in any case, Kenya’s charm rarely resides in its major urban centers), by never traveling at night and by flying between the parks. The danger from wild animals is minimal; most Kenya safari trips and operators have excellent safety records, and you should be fine if you follow the safety briefings and instructions from guides.”

How do I select a reliable tour operator for a Kenyan safari?

“The best way to choose a Kenya safari is to read all about the safari experiences of other travelers at SafariBookings.com – chances are that their reviews will answer many of your questions (before you’ve asked them), as well as speak to the professionalism of the various operators with whom they’ve traveled. Otherwise, it’s extremely important that you contact any tour companies with whom you are considering traveling before you make a booking, and ask any questions you may have. This could be anything from the mode of transport, frequency of meals or daily safari schedules to the languages spoken by your guide or how many other travelers will be in your vehicle. Be as specific as you can. Not all operators offer customized Kenya tours, it’s true, but there’s no substitute for being informed. The operator’s willingness to answer questions can be a good guide to their dealings with people on safari.”

What type of accommodation can I expect?

“As a general rule, the higher your Kenya safari prices, the better you can expect your accommodation to be. At the lower end, campsites are usually basic, sometimes crowded and not always in the best locations within the national parks or reserves, but they are well priced and often have ample facilities such as showers and toilets. Lodges are the mainstays of the Kenya safari scene and the quality varies considerably. Many lodges within the reserves and national parks have excellent locations but are aging and in need of renovation, while others are luxurious and recently overhauled. In tented camps, including mobile camps, you’ll sleep in large, walk-in tents – they’re like lodge rooms in terms of size but with canvas for walls and floor. Canvas tents mean that you can hear the sounds of the African night. Hopefully you won’t hear the sounds of your neighboring guests if the tents are nicely spaced. Most lodge rooms and tents of this kind have comfortable (not camp) beds, sometimes a desk and usually a private bathroom; some even have an outdoor shower with no roof but walls that protect your modesty. Particularly in tented camps, you’ll most likely need to recharge your devices not in your room but at a power station in the main public area.”

What can I expect from a safari in Kenya?

“Most days out on safari begin with a quiet African voice waking you well before sunrise. After dressing quickly, and having a coffee or tea, you head out for a few hours in a safari vehicle (with other guests, a driver, guide and sometimes a tracker) looking for wildlife – this time, and the last hours before sunset, are ideal for viewing wildlife. You’ll return to the lodge or camp mid- to late morning for a proper sit-down breakfast. A few hours of relaxation, followed by lunch, then a few hours more doing very little occupies the hottest part of the day, when even animals retreat into the shade. Afternoon tea, often known as High Tea in a nod to colonial-era safari traditions, happens around 3 PM or 3:30 PM, then it’s back out looking for wildlife until after dark. Just before sunset, you’ll stop for another safari institution, the ‘Sundowner’, when you’ll watch the sunset while nursing the drink of your choice. You arrive back in camp in time to freshen up, then it’s dinner and off to bed, before it all starts again very early the next morning.”

Kenya Safari Reviews

Stuart is a travel writer and author of numerous Lonely Planet guidebooks, including 'Kenya', 'Rwanda' and 'Tanzania'.

East Africa’s Most varied Nation

Kenya is the original home of the safari. This is the land of the world renowned Masai Mara National Reserve where tawny coloured lions feast off the hundreds of thousands of wildebeest that annually migrate into the country from...

Full Review

Alan is a travel writer and author of over 20 Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the guides to Southern Africa and Zambia & Malawi.

A Safari Behemoth

In some ways, Kenya rates as the best country for safaris in Africa. That is a contentious statement and many would argue that Tanzania should be given that title. Whichever way you go, Kenya is undeniably a destination which will fulfill...

Bucket list visit

My Safari was 10 days through 4 National Parks. Samburu, Maasai Mara, Hells Gate and Amboseli. All of the parks offered plenty of wildlife and I am happy to say we ticked all the boxes. My driver was wonderful and managed to keep us out of...

Amazing country

First trip to Equatorial and English-speaking Africa Business trip, but I was able to enjoy 3 days on my own Captivating atmosphere Not at the best time of year, but I still managed to see the attractions. But no urban tourism 2 days,...

Beautiful people and exciting animals every day.

Even with all of the rain and flooding taking place in Kenya are experienced was amazing amazing. The people were beautiful and so willing to help and I could not believe all of the animals we were able to see every day. Our trip was...

Masai Mara has to be seen by all once in your lifetime

On arrival in Nairobi, you really feel you have entered Africa. The people are very friendly and willing to help you in anyway. Travel to and from the Masai Mara is, well lets just say, an adventure. Traffic is horrendous, roads are a...

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The best holidays to book for July 2024, from Italian lakes to Devon escapes

Summer will – hopefully – start hotting up in july, and whether you’re keen on a greek island getaway or some turkish delight, here’s some inspiration for your break, article bookmarked.

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With the general election taking place on 4 July, you’ve got plenty of opportunities afterwards to take a summer holiday before schools break up later in the month and prices start to shoot through the roof.

With the British spring doing its usual stop-start thing, you might want to look further afield for some summertime sunshine and warmth.

Spend a week in one of Italy ’s quieter and lesser-known lakes in an elegant waterside hotel, or escape to a Greek island and feast on grilled meats by the Ionian Sea. Hole up in a Turkish bolthole overlooking the Aegean, or follow in the BBC’s Race Across the World ’s footsteps in Malaysia .

Stay closer to home with hikes in the Lake District or spend days on sandy beaches in North Devon . Whatever type of holiday you’re planning in July, some of these ideas will inspire you.

Read more on travel inspiration :

• The tiny twin-island nation that’s become a celebrity holiday hotspot
• The world’s most beautiful over-water villas and bungalows (that aren’t in the Maldives)
• Visiting David Attenborough’s ‘favourite place’ – why you should explore the reefs and rainforests of North Queensland

While Lakes Como, Garda and Maggiore draw the crowds, head instead to little and less-known Lake Orta. Stay at the Hotel Giardinetto in the village of Pettenasco and soak up the romance of being right on the lake, with its own private boat and landing stage. There’s also an outdoor pool to go with a pretty restaurant terrace. Citalia has a five-night break at the Hotel Giardinetto departing 5 July from £878pp, including flights and transfers; half-board is also available.

Enjoy lovely views of Gaios, the diminutive capital of equally tiny Paxos, from one of the Theodora Apartments run by Sunvil . Each apartment comes with a double bedroom and a balcony or patio looking out over the Ionian Sea, while to the rear is a relaxing shared garden with a swimming pool. The village centre is only a few hundred yards away. Seven nights’ self-catering from 8 July costs from £699pp, including flights and transfers.

Lake District

Hassness Country House on the shore of Buttermere makes an idyllic setting for this self-guided walking holiday offered by Ramble Worldwide . Choose from a selection of Lakeland hikes, including walking from Buttermere to Rannerdale Knotts and to Haystacks from Honister, as well as around Crummock Water and through Borrowdale. A three-night self-guided break from 26–29 July costs from £449pp – down from £536 – and includes breakfast, packed lunches and dinner.

High in the hills above Kalkan is a beautiful retreat with everything you need for a romantic holiday. Simpson Travel has availability in its Simpson Secret Uzumlu, a one-bedroom stone and wood house surrounded by greenery, and with its own pool and hot tub – plus views of the Aegean from one of its balconies. It comes with a hire car so you can drive to the coast and flop on one of Kalkan’s beaches when you’re not dining in a village restaurant in Uzumlu. A week’s self-catering departing 7 July costs from £1,500pp, including flights and hire car.

If you’ve been bitten by the Race Across the World bug and want a taste of Southeast Asia, book a holiday at Rebak Island Resort & Marina on its own island off the northern Malaysian island of Langkawi. This is the place to kick back and chill out on the sandy beach beside the hotel, or in its swimming pool and spa. Away Holidays has seven-night half-board breaks in July from £1,139pp (or £1,029 B&B), including flights.

Soak up views of the estuary where the Taw and Torridge rivers meet when you stay at Gulls Cry, in the fishing village of Appledore. This period two-bedroom cottage has its living space on the upper floor to make the most of those views. You’ll have Appledore’s pubs and restaurants on your doorstep, and the beaches at Instow, Westward Ho! and Saunton Sands a short drive away. Booked through Marsdens Devon Cottages , it costs £711 for a seven-night rental, down from £876, from 12 July. One medium-sized dog is welcome at an additional £20.

Mary Novakovich is editor at large at  101holidays.co.uk

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This $17 French Moisturizer Is Amazon’s Best-Kept Beauty Secret

Shopping Writer for HuffPost

HuffPost receives compensation from one or more retailers on this page, and HuffPost and its publishing partners may also receive a commission for purchases made via links. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

We see a lot of beauty and skin care products here at HuffPost, some of which make a lasting impression despite the constant influx of competition. One of the best examples is Embryolisse’s Lait-Crème Concentré face cream, a seasoned French pharmacy staple that may just be the beauty world’s not-so-secret weapon.

This $17 moisturizer has been suggested to us by makeup artists and dermatologists and has been the subject of TikTok viral trends like “skin flooding.” Even the dedicated fandom of Netflix’s “Emily in Paris” jumped on the Embryolisse bandwagon when it was revealed that the show’s makeup artist used it on star Lily Collins.

I was persuaded to try the all-purpose wonders of this face cream several years ago, and I can confirm the hype is well deserved.

If you’re a makeup-wearer, you know that when your base isn’t right, your foundation can pill, products will separate and dry patches will look woefully exaggerated.

That’s one of the reasons why Embryolisse is a regular fixture in the kits of professional makeup artists. Many claim that the shea butter-based formula functions both as a nourishing hydrator and the perfect makeup primer thanks to the rich and emollient texture that prevents foundation from sinking into fine lines. This also makes it a great option for mature skin, one makeup artist previously told HuffPost.

Supermodel Karlie Kloss even sang its praises back in 2009 when asked about her favorite beauty secrets.

As someone with extremely dry and sensitive skin, I’m personally impressed with the level of moisture this cream provides, without being greasy or heavy. It manages to absorb extremely well into the skin while leaving the slightest bit of tack so that makeup layers well and sticks seamlessly on top.

Makeup application aside, many users also point to the cream’s ability to stave off dry, flakey patches of skin as well as redness and irritation.

@kevikodra #greenscreenvideo #greenscreen ok but did I not tell y’all it’s the best…. #makeup #makeupartist #beauty #beautyhacks #skin ♬ Elevator Music - Bohoman

According to the brand, their iconic formula actually hails from the 1950s and has been virtually unchanged since. It stays true to a sensitive-skin-friendly composition that includes calming aloe vera, protective beeswax, nourishing soy proteins and skin-softening shea butter.

Although these ingredients may seem simple, it’s a combination that really underscores the phrase “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it.”

You, too, can partake in this timeless formulation, whether a makeup-wearer or otherwise, for just $17. Or, keep reading to see why so many others are also Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré fans.

Promising Amazon reviews:

“LOVE this! (For context, I’m 61 with really good but very sensitive skin.) With ingredients like Soy Proteins, Aloe Vera, Beeswax, and Shea Butter, I worried that this might feel too waxy or thick. It’s not. It’s a unique moist-creamy texture that spreads out thinner than expected. It’s nothing like the German Nivea I’ve been using (and loving) but almost like a cross between a lotion and a cream. It’s different from any moisturizer that I’ve ever used. ” — TM Conway

“I’m 43 and live in Colorado and I’m not kidding when I say I have tried 20+ moisturizers in the past few years trying to find something that works in the winter for my super fair, super sensitive skin. I tend to break out easily with certain ingredients and fragrances, also often deal with flaking/redness. It has been so hard to find something that is moisturizing ENOUGH that doesn’t break out or irritate my skin, but still actually works. I’ve tried so many Sephora lines as well as Biossance and Caudalie, numerous drugstore brands in all price ranges, but this cream is amazing. Moisturizing enough to use as a night cream but not so greasy that you can’t wear it during the day under makeup, and super soothing for redness and irritation.” — KaritaG

“I’ve never been so happy about a product. For whatever reason, my makeup has not been staying on my face and would pill or look horrible when I’ve changed nothing about my routine. I rarely use primer because they never do anything for me, but I tried several to try to help. I had heard that makeup artists use this product so I gave it a try, and my makeup is finally back to normal. It looks flawless! I do my makeup every day, so it was a real confidence killer knowing that my makeup looked bad. I have NEVER bought anything that’s made such an impact, but I will for sure be a forever customer with this one.” — Emma

“I love how moisturizing this is without being greasy. It wears perfectly under foundation without caking or separating.” — Laura

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From our partner, huffpost shopping’s best finds, more in shopping.

Most useful travel products on Amazon under $50

N ow that Memorial Day has passed and your summer travel plans are coming together, it's time to consider all the gear and goods you'll need to pack to make your summer travel easy and fun. 

We're not just talking about shirts and swimsuits for when you reach your destination. You'll also need gear for the traveling part -- think eye masks, phone adapters and holders, ear plugs and cleaning supplies 

All that new gear can be expensive, but it doesn't have to be. To save you some cash, we've taken a trip through the virtual aisles of Amazon, searching for affordable travel necessities you'll need this summer but don't need to splurge on. You'll have extra room on your summer travel budget thanks to these travel products you can find on Amazon for under $50.

Useful necessities to upgrade your travel experience don't have to break the bank. We found reviewer-loved travel essentials that will seriously enhance your summer trip. 

• The best rolling bag under $50 : Wrangler Wesley rolling duffel bag
• Best accessory for in-flight entertainment: Avantree Relay Bluetooth adapter
• Best packing organizers : Veken packing cubes
• Best phone charger set for travel : Portable charger with built-in cables
• The best mask for flying : Lightimetunnel Sleep Bluetooth-enabled mask and headphones
• Best packing solution for shoes : JJ Power travel shoe bags
• Best rain gear for light rain : Hood to Go portable hood travel accessory
• Best travel beauty hack : Neutrogena makeup remover facial cleansing towelettes
• The most useful in-flight phone mount : Perilogics universal in-flight phone holder mount
• Best earplugs when flying red-eye : EarPlanes 3-pair earplugs

The best rolling bag under $50: Wrangler Wesley rolling duffel bag

Constructed with high-quality nylon, the Wrangler Wesley rolling duffel bag is built to withstand the rigors of frequent travel. Its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver, while the heavy-duty blade wheel system ensures smooth rolling on any surface. The spacious main compartment provides ample room for packing and multiple additional zippered pockets offer convenient organization for smaller items. You can use it like a rolling suitcase or hold it like a duffel bag. The check-in suitcase size makes it ideal for longer trips or those who need extra storage capacity.

This 30-inch piece of luggage is available in black, charcoal gray, tannin and navy blue colors. Rated 4.3 stars.

The Wrangler Wesley rolling duffel bag is available at Amazon for $45.

Best accessory for in-flight entertainment: Avantree Relay airplane Bluetooth adapter

This device lets you enjoy movies in-flight with your own headphones or earbuds, thanks to its included dual adapter that fits any plane's audio jack. It works with any aux audio device and connects to Bluetooth headphones. Its impressive 20-hour battery life keeps you powered up, and you can use it while it charges.

The best part is that you can easily connect up to two devices, so you and your travel partner can watch shows and movies together in flight.

This Amazon pick has a 4.5-star rating from over 1,300 reviews. The Avantree Relay airplane adapter is available on Amazon for $40.

Best packing organizers: Veken packing cubes

After your first trip using packing cubes, you'll wonder how you traveled the world without them. This set includes a laundry bag and toiletry case, three packing cubes, an accessories bag, a shoe bag and an underwear bag. 

Each bag is made from durable thick fabric featuring sturdy two-way zippers. Each bag features transparent, breathable mesh panels that keep clothing fresh and visible. 

Packing cubes will spare you a suitcase full of wrinkled clothing while keeping your shoes and dirty clothing separate from all those clean outfits you have yet to wear.

This packing cube set is $25 at Amazon.

Best phone charger set for travel: Portable charger with built-in cables

This slim high-speed phone charger features four built-in charging cables for almost all types of devices, including iPhones , iPad tablets and Samsung phones . This charger has six outputs and three inputs, meaning you can charge up to six devices at the same time.

A travel necessity, this portable charger saves you the inevitable cable wad and lost chargers that seem to accompany one's family trip without fail.

This portable charger is $20 (reduced from $40). 

The best mask for flying: Lightimetunnel Sleep Bluetooth-enabled mask and headphones

You need this wireless music sleep headphones eye mask if you struggle to sleep in planes, trains, cars and beds that aren't your own. With a 3D ergonomic design and 100% light blocking, the mask is perfect for problem sleepers -- or if you just don't want to be disturbed on a flight. The machine-washable eye mask has an ultra-soft, breathable feel. Plus, the battery lasts over 10 hours for a full and peaceful night's sleep. 

The Lightimetunnel sleep Bluetooth-enabled mask and headphones are $23 at Amazon.

Best packing solution for shoes: JJ Power travel shoe bags

Don't want your dirty shoes to touch the clean clothes in your suitcase? We have a solution: these durable and functional travel shoe bags. Made with waterproof nylon, double stitching and two-way zippers, they're built to last. They offer ample space for your shoes, with an extra slot for slippers. Not just for travel, these versatile bags can be used for packing, organizing and even as laundry pouches.

These shoe bags are a must-have for any adventurer. Rated 4.6 stars.

JJ Power 2-pack travel shoe bags are available at Amazon for $10.

Best rain gear for light rain: Hood to Go portable hood travel accessory

Imagine this: you're at an amusement park or on a hike, enjoying your surroundings. Then, low and behold, a downpour occurs. What can you do? Well, this hood attaches to any jacket, or you can wear it on its own. It's a lot easier to handle than trying to open a cheap plastic poncho while it's raining.

There's a drawstring that you can adjust to protect you on windy days, and the hood is made from 100 percent water-resistant microfiber that can protect your hairstyle. Rated 4 stars on Amazon.

Hood to Go portable hood travel accessor is $29 at Amazon.

Best travel beauty hack: Neutrogena makeup remover facial cleansing towelettes

Did you know that travel can be rough on your skin? The air on the plane is drying, and the sweat and grime from being in close quarters can add up.

Washing your face with a travel-friendly face wipe can make you feel refreshed. Take off your makeup before you sleep on a flight, rejuvenate your skin in a gas station bathroom or cleanse your face right before you deplane. The ultra-soft, single-serving towelettes are made of plant-based compostable material. They'll make it through the TSA checkpoint and won't take up much space in your travel bag.

Neutrogena makeup remover facial cleansing towelettes are $7 at Amazon, reduced from $9.

The most useful in-flight phone mount: Perilogics universal in-flight phone holder mount

Not all airlines offer an in-seat TV these days -- travelers are increasingly expected to use their phones or tablets for in-flight entertainment. Luckily, the Perilogics universal in-flight phone mount is a versatile and practical accessory loved by over 500,000 travel enthusiasts on Amazon.

With a strong clamp, it securely attaches your phone to airline tables, luggage handles or gym equipment. Its dual joints and 360-degree rotation provide the perfect viewing angle. Compatible with various phone sizes.

Perilogics universal in-flight phone holder mount is $14 at Amazon. 

Best earplugs when flying red-eye: EarPlanes 3-pair earplugs

Do you struggle with ear discomfort on planes? These amazing earplugs are tested by U.S. Navy pilots and approved by flight attendants. They provide relief from air pressure discomfort, making your journey much more comfortable. Additionally, EarPlanes earplugs help reduce noise for a more peaceful travel experience.

This three-pack of EarPlanes earplugs for adults is available at Amazon for $19, reduced from $23.

Kids may struggle with ear pressure on planes even more than adults do. Pick up the children's version for all your littlest travelers.

EarPlanes 3-pair earplugs for kids are $19 at Amazon.

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This Podiatrist-approved Shoe Brand Secretly Went on Sale at Amazon — Shop the 10 Comfiest Finds From $28

Score discounts extending up to 68 percent off.

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

Whether you have a jam-packed travel agenda or are simply hanging around town this summer, a good pair of comfortable shoes will make a world of difference in the quality of your days. From walking tours to running errands, shoes that offer noticeable cushioning and support are valuable assets to your wardrobe, and nobody does it quite like Dr. Scholl’s .

The podiatrist-approved and celebrity-loved brand, which has most recently been spotted on the likes of Sarah Jessica Parker , just secretly went on sale at Amazon to kick off the summer, and from stylish sandals to cushy sneakers , there’s no shortage of options to choose from. So, if you’re taking on the cobblestone streets of a foreign city in the coming months or are merely looking for the perfect pair of shoes to slip on for your daily walks, read on to discover the 10 best Dr. Scholl’s styles that are currently on sale at Amazon, with discounts extending up to 68 percent off.

Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Time Off Sneakers

When building your travel wardrobe from the ground up, there’s nothing quite as versatile as a well-made pair of plain white sneakers . Fortunately, this supportive and timeless pair from Dr. Scholl’s will make a welcome addition to your suitcase for your next trip. Impressive cushioning within the insoles of these shoes allows every step to feel like you’re walking on a cloud, while the lightweight construction ensures that they’ll be easy to tuck into your suitcase. Plus, with a water-resistant faux leather exterior, the shoes won't leave you struggling if your feet get drenched in a summer shower.

Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Savoy Sneakers

Boasting a slight boxy fit akin to the Nike Air Force 1 ’s signature look, these platform sneakers are guaranteed to add an undeniable cool factor to any outfit they’re paired with — from a silky maxi skirt to a flowy pair of linen pants. True to Dr. Scholl’s form, these sneakers are highly supportive thanks to molded insoles that cradle your feet from the moment you try them on, and padded heels that keep these shoes from creating blisters or other discomfort. But even with their impressive padding, these shoes are still lightweight enough to travel with — and are versatile to boot.

Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Nova Sneakers

Slip-on shoes are one of the most convenient styles for travel days when you’re in a hurry, and these simple yet elevated flats are a supreme choice for wearing through TSA and on sightseeing days — especially while they’re on sale for 38 percent off. We’re eyeing the sleek snake print option, but these shoes also come in 18 bold and neutral colors and patterns to add a burst of personality to your wardrobe. The linings of the shoes are even sustainably made with recycled bottles for an eco-friendly touch. 

Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Classic Faux Wood Sandals

Earning a resurgence in popularity after being worn by Sarah Jessica Parker’s character Carrie Bradshaw on the show "And Just Like That," these simple yet timeless slip-on sandals are a breath of fresh air as they marry style and comfort into one packable shoe. Now on sale for 25 percent off, these surprisingly supportive shoes are made with a modest 1.5-inch heel alongside a handy slip-on design that will allow you to rush out the door for a city stroll without a second thought. The flexible outsoles are lightweight and will never weigh you down, and to top it all off, they even offer hidden arch support.

Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Webster Loafers

Loafers will simply never go out of style in my book, and in fact, these shoes have more than 4,000 five-star ratings to back that opinion up. Sitting at a whopping 67 percent off, these sensible and versatile shoes are a must-have if you’re planning on spending long days on your feet but don’t want to put on a pair of sneakers that may detract from your outfit. Foam insoles provide all the cushioning necessary to pad your feet from irritation, and a slip-on design also makes these shoes easy to grab in a hurry. Whatever you have on the agenda for your next trip, these shoes are the perfect companion.

Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Madison Sneakers

Another breezy slip-on style, these "Amazon’s Choice" sneakers have earned more than 13,800 five-star ratings from enamored shoppers — and you can get them for just $50 ahead of your summer travels. The padded collars at the back of each shoe remain comfortable from the moment you put them on, and stretchy panels on either side of the shoes make it easier than ever to slip them onto your feet and hit the road. Plus, they come in 29 bold colors and patterns (from camo print to plain white ), so you’ll have no trouble matching every outfit packed into your suitcase.

Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Adelle 2 Sandals

From hiking excursions to extensive walking tours, these sporty and functional sandals are a top-notch footwear selection for the warmer months, which is exactly why you’ll want to snag them while they’re on sale for just $54. Adjustable criss-cross straps will keep your feet firmly in place while still allowing them to breathe, and ultra-soft cushioning at the insoles gently cradles your feet — even while hiking up a mountain . They’re flexible, packable, and, above all, incredibly comfy.

Dr. Scholl’s Men’s Sync Oxfords

Contrary to popular opinion, dress shoes can, in fact, be both refined and supportive, and these sleek Oxfords are evidence of that, and they’re only $65 at Amazon right now. The exterior is made from smooth, faux leather that instantly elevates any outfit it’s paired with, and cushioned insoles and padded heels lend themselves to the attention to detail put into the construction of these shoes. Best of all, they’re available in eight neutral colors that can be worn for everything from a fancy dinner to a day of walking around, all while looking perfectly put together.

Dr. Scholl’s Men’s Gaston Sandals

Fisherman sandals are all the rage this summer, and at just $60, this cushy pair from Dr. Scholl’s will fill that void in your closet without you incurring blisters and sore feet. A high-quality leather exterior will remain in pristine condition (and even grow softer with every wear) for years to come, and memory foam insoles provide unparalleled cushioning and comfort for even the longest days on your feet. If you’ve been on the hunt for a timeless pair of sandals that look good with every outfit, your search can finally end here.

Dr. Scholl’s Men’s Northern Sneakers

Coming in at a significant discount of 68 percent off, these chunky sneakers are a valuable asset for travelers thanks to their highly durable leather exterior, water-repellent nature, and overall secure-feeling fit. Padded heels ensure that these shoes are comfortable straight from the box, while the neutral color options are simple enough to match the entirety of your travel wardrobe without exception. At just $40, these simple sneakers are a pair you’d be remiss not to add to your shopping cart ahead of your next vacation. 

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