Top 10 reasons to visit Kenya

Kenya, often called the Magical Kenya or the New York of Africa, is a land of breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife and a rich cultural heritage. Its capital, Nairobi, is famously known as the “Green City under the Sun. If you’re planning a trip or just curious about this beautiful country, here are 10 reasons to visit kenya;

---

1. The Big Five Safari Animals

Ever dreamt of seeing lions, elephants, leopards, buffalos and rhinos in the wild? Kenya is one of the best places to witness the Big Five in their natural habitat.

You’ll find these iconic animals in top safari destinations like:

• Maasai Mara National Reserve – Famous for its vast savannahs and rich wildlife.
• Amboseli National Park – Offers breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
• Nairobi National Park – The only national park in the world inside a capital city!

---

2. Nairobi National Park – Wildlife in the City

Kenya is the only country in the world with a national park right in its capital city! Imagine skyscrapers on one side with bustling city life and lions, giraffes and rhinos on the other.

You can take a half-day safari and experience the wild without leaving the city!

---

3. World-Class Marathon Runners

When you hear “Kenya,” you probably think of elite marathon champions. Kenyan runners, especially from the Rift Valley, dominate long-distance races worldwide.

The secret? High-altitude training, a strong running culture, and sheer determination.

The most famous of them all? Eliud Kipchoge, the man who broke the sub-two-hour marathon record!

---

4. Kenyan Tea – One of the World’s Best

Did you know Kenya is one of the top four tea producers in the world? Tea or “chai” as we call it in swahili is a cultural staple.

A proper Kenyan breakfast isn’t complete without chai, A mix of milk, water and aromatic spices often paired with mandazi (our version of Polish pączki) you’re not quite welcome in a Kenyan home, if they don’t offer you chai.

Fun fact: In Kenya, “chai” isn’t just tea—it’s also slang for a bribe!

---

5. Premium Kenyan Coffee

Kenyan coffee is ranked among the top 5 best coffees in the world. Grown in the fertile central highlands where the perfect mix of acidic soil, the right amount of sunlight and rainfall gives it it’s bold flavor, rich aroma and smooth finish.

For coffee lovers, coffee farm tours in places like Kiambu and Nyeri offer a chance to experience the entire bean-to-cup process! A chance to walk and smell the coffee.

---

6. Mount Kenya – The Sacred Mountain

Mount Kenya, Africa’s second highest mountain, is more than just a hiking destination. To the Kikuyu people (me included) it’s a sacred place originally called Kirinyaga—believed to be the home of Ngai (God).

Even today, many locals pray facing Mount Kenya.

For adventurers, climbing Mount Kenya offers a thrilling alternative to Mount Kilimanjaro!

---

7. The Great Wildebeest Migration – A Natural Wonder

Every year between July and August, over 1.5 million wildebeests, zebras and gazelles migrate from the Serengeti in Tanzania to Maasai Mara in Kenya in search of greener pastures.

Dubbed the “7th Wonder of the Natural World,” this migration is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth.

---

8. Kibera – Africa’s Largest Urban Slum

Kibera, located in Nairobi, is the biggest informal settlement in Africa. Despite the hardships, it’s a place of resilience, creativity and innovation.

The community produces handmade crafts, artwork and music, offering a unique perspective on Kenya’s urban culture. A guided day trip walking through kibera slum to meet artisans and the people is highly recommended.

---

9. Kenya’s Breathtaking Beaches

Kenya isn’t just about safaris—its Indian Ocean coastline is home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches:

• Diani Beach – Known for crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches.
• Watamu – A hidden gem with tropical vibes and incredible snorkeling spots.
• Lamu Island – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich Swahili culture.

Kenya’s beaches are so pristine and non crowded that many tourists mistake them for private beaches!

---

10. Hot Air Balloon Safaris – The Ultimate Adventure

Why explore the Maasai Mara in a 4×4 safari when you can float above the savannah?

Hot air balloon safaris at sunrise offer a breathtaking view of the wildlife and landscapes below. It’s also a perfect proposal idea for those looking to pop the question in style!

---

BONUS: Want to Discover Kenya’s Hidden Gems?

These are just 10 reasons to visit kenya and some of the things Kenya is famous for. But as a born & bred Kenyan, I have a locals-only guide to Kenya’s best-kept secrets!