KENYA
It is no surprise that Kenya is ranked as the top country in Africa on the list of most sought-wildlife destinations. From Maasai Mara to Amboseli National Park and colorful huts, Kenya is best known for its teeming natural beauty, dynamic, unique culture, and
the vibrancy that is found nowhere else in Africa. Its scope means visitors can spend a lifetime returning and still find something fascinating every time.
Kenya is home to a diverse array of people from all walks of life. Bordering the Indian Ocean in the southeast, the country has always been buzzing with external influence since its independence in 1963. Along that Indian Ocean, it’s a historical center called Mombasa has contributed much to the country’s culinary and musical heritage. The British and Arab influences are still prevalent today; making Kenya a true adventure for the senses.
Highlights
Kenya Capital: Nairobi
Main Cities: Nakuru, Naivasha, Eldoret, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Thika
Population: 47.9 million people
Size: 580,367 km 2
Major Religion: Islam and Christianity
Main Language: Swahili and English
Climate: Kenya has two distinct seasons; dry and rainy. October, November and December is the rainy season; February, March and, June is summer.
Dialling code: +254
Currency: Kenya Shillings
Symbols: KSH
Tribes: 42 tribes, which are divided into Bantu, Nilotic and Cushitic.
Central Bank: Reserve Bank of Kenya
Emergency Numbers: 999 for police, 112 for Fire Department, and 111 for Ambulance
Maasai Mara
While Kenya is a country of must-see attractions, there are few that top the list. A trip to Maasai Mara, one of the finest cultural legacy in the Kenya national reserve, will grant a great shift in perspective. Also don’t miss the chance to see the big 5 games and take a
step back to be amazed by the Maasai’s love for raw blood yielded by a cow when it’s alive.
Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park, the former home of the Maasai, is noted for its diverse landscape and home of many wildlife including the big 5. If you are a fan of the great outdoors, choose from an abundance of adventure activities in Amboseli National Park such as nature walks, balloon safari, scuba, and snorkelling. There is absolutely no wrong way to spend a day at this destination.
Mt. Kenya
Mt Kenya is easily accessible via the highway in private transport or by bus. The mountain is teeming with birds and wildlife lover’s dreams. Several prominent people; including Prince William took advantage of its diverse and rich banks for bird watching and breathtaking sunset to pop the big question. Thus, it would be crazy to miss out on the chance to see the secluded log cabin (located at the foothill of Mt. Kenya) where Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton.
Lake Nakuru
Lake Nakuru is known for many species of birds, including wide variety of beautiful pink flamingoes. With several accommodation options to choose from, ranging from luxury hotels to well-appointed campsites, there is something for every traveller’s budget and preference on the shore of Lake Nakuru.
Kenya language
Kenya consists of 3 language groups, Afro-Asiatic, Bantu, and Nilo-Saharan. Kiswahili (Swahili) is the national language of Kenya. The purest and simplest form of Swahili is hujambo (hello) and response nzuri (fine).
Dress code
Most Kenyans have their traditional way of dressing which makes it very interesting to wear your desired preference and taste.
Nairobi Nightlife
Kenya cities are featured by a more cosmopolitan population whose tastes reflect practices that bides them with the global music industry. Nairobi nightlife, for instance, caters to the youth’s passion for music that varies from American blues and rock to hip-hop.
Kenya Cuisine
Kenya is a hotbed of hospitality with diverse restaurants serving different food across the globe. Kenya’s cooking reflects Arab and British influences. Popular traditional foods throughout Kenya include Ugali and mchele (Rice) and often served with nyama (meat) or chapati (a fried pan like the bread of Indian origin). Seafood such as Samaki (fish) is not eaten every day, but grilled nyama choma (meat) in “bush meat,” is common.
Helpful Travelling tips
Book through an agent directly to save costs. Since OTA’s takes commissions
Currency and Banking. The currency of Kenya is the Shilling (KSH). There are approximately 100 KSHS to $1.
Travel Insurance is everything
Maasai Mara and Amboseli Park are less crowded on the weekdays
Recommended packing list. Sunscreen, sunglasses, umbrella, camera, and a portable backpack with a zipper for daily use.