Holidays in Kenya

Places of Interest

Nairobi, Kenya’s capital is a vibrant cosmopolitan city with many unmissable attractions. Visit the bustling Village Market with its many shops, restaurants, cinema screens and a bowling alley and don’t miss the open air Masai Market for local crafts. Cultural attractions include the Nairobi National Museum, the Karen Blixen Museum and the Railway Museum. Just outside the city you’ll find the Nairobi National Park, Kenya’s oldest national park where the main attraction is the black rhino’s.

The coastal city of Mombasa is the second largest city in Kenya and has some of the best beaches in the world. Mombasa has a rich and diverse cultural history with Portuguese, Arab and British influences which is evident in the shops and restaurants located on the winding streets. Fort Jesus, in Mombasa Old Town, is a must see. The fort was built by the Portuguese in 1593 and many of its rooms and buildings are still intact today.

Watamu lies on a small headland between Watamu Bay and the Blue Lagoon and is home to one of Africa’s oldest National Marine Parks. The Marine Park with an abundance of tropical fish and coral formations is considered to be one of the best diving and snorkelling areas in East Africa.

Safari

A holiday to Kenya is not complete without experiencing a safari, from a 1 night adventure to a 7 night expedition there is a safari experience for everyone! Journey into the wild and get up close to the ‘big five’ – lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos and rhinos, in their natural environment.

Masai Mara – The Masai Mara is Kenya’s most famous and impressive park where an abundance of wildlife awaits. The reserve has no roads so the driver can leave the mudtracks and drive right up to the animals. Known for being home to the ‘big five’, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, gazelle, warthogs, hyena and birdlife, the fantastic photo opportunities are endless!

Amboseli National Reserve – Amboseli is set at the foot of the breathtaking Mount Kilimanjaro and is most famous for its 650-strong herd of elephants which are usually seen roaming the dry riverbed of the lake. You’ll also spot hippos, buffalos, zebra and cheetahs. Bird watching, especially in the winter months during the migration period is spectacular.

Tsavo National Park – Tsavo is Kenya’s largest national park and is split into east and west by the Mombasa/Nairobi highway. Tsavo East has a dry climate and flat plains which are home to elephants, giraffes, leopards, rhino, cheetah and many more. Tsavo West is home to Mzima Springs where crocodile and hippos can be seen cooling themselves from the hot sun. Don’t miss the ‘moon walking’ hippo which can be seen from the underwater viewing observatory!

For further ideas to make your trip unique call our friendly knowledgable travel experts who are happy to tailor the perfect trip to suit you.

Local Customs

The main religions of Kenya are Christianity, Hinduism and Islam.

Service is not typically included and tipping is at your own discretion but the following is a guideline:
• Restaurants – where service is not included in the bill around 10% is customary.
• Excursion drivers and guides – the equivalent of £2 per day.

Don’t forget your swimwear as topless bathing and nudity on the beach and in public areas is strictly forbidden.

Food & Drink

Traditional African dishes consist of roasted meats and an assortment of tropical vegetables and fruits. Most hotels will serve a wide range of cuisine including English, African, Indian, Italian, French and more.

Nightlife

Most nightlife is centred around hotel entertainment and local bars and restaurants in resort. However, if you are looking for a lively night out then head to North Mombasa where you will find a number of bars, restaurants, clubs and discos.

Shopping

There are lots of local markets where you can buy locally hand-crafted items, carvings, jewellery and fabrics. Bargaining is expected so don’t be afraid to barter!

The Village Market in Nairobi is the perfect place to buy international goods and the local markets in Mombasa are the ideal place to pick up souvenirs.

Currency

The currency in Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling. US & UK Travellers Cheques can be exchanged locally for Kenyan currency. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Kenya and there are many ATM machines.

Language

Kenya has two official languages – Swahili and English.

Flight time

Approximately 10 hours.

Time difference

GMT +3 hours

Transfer Times

Approximately 1 hour to resorts north of Mombasa and 2 hours to resorts to the south.

Health & Visa Information

For current vaccination information and general travel advice from NHS Direct please click here.

You are required to get Visa in advance of travel, for more information click here.