Kenya

Kenya is one of Africa’s most iconic destinations—a land where vast savannas, snow-capped peaks, tropical coastlines, and thriving cultural traditions converge. Known for its extraordinary wildlife and diverse ecosystems, Kenya offers unforgettable encounters with lions, elephants, flamingos, and the world-famous Great Migration. Beyond its natural splendor, visitors will find warm hospitality, vibrant cities, world-class safari lodges, and a depth of history that enriches every experience.

Visa requirements	U.S. and Canadian citizens must obtain an eVisa or electronic travel authorization before traveling to Kenya. Applications are submitted online through the Kenyan government portal, and passports must be valid for at least six months beyond arrival with at least one blank page. Travelers should verify the latest entry requirements before departure, as policies may change.
Languages spoken	English, Swahili (Kiswahili), plus numerous regional languages.
Currency used	Kenyan Shilling (KES)
Area (sq. mi.)	224,081
Country name	Republic of Kenya

Sightseeing

Maasai Mara National Reserve Witness one of the greatest wildlife destinations on Earth, home to big cats, sweeping savannas, and the annual Great Migration.

Amboseli National Park Enjoy unforgettable views of Mount Kilimanjaro and photograph some of Africa’s largest elephant herds up close.

Lake Nakuru National Park Explore a shimmering Rift Valley lake renowned for rhinos, birdlife, and its famous populations of flamingos.

Mount Kenya National Park Discover Afro-alpine landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and glacier-fed streams surrounding Africa’s second-highest mountain.

Samburu National Reserve Encounter rare northern species such as Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and Somali ostrich in a rugged, beautiful setting.

Tsavo East & West National Parks Experience Kenya’s largest protected ecosystem, known for red-dust elephants, vast plains, and remote safari adventures.

Diani Beach Relax on soft white sands and enjoy watersports, diving reefs, and a laid-back atmosphere along the southern coast.

Lamu Old Town Step into a charming Swahili settlement with narrow stone streets, centuries-old architecture, and a rich maritime history.

Nairobi National Park See lions, rhinos, and giraffes against a backdrop of city skyscrapers—an extraordinary urban wildlife experience.

Hell’s Gate National Park Explore dramatic gorges, geothermal features, and towering cliffs with opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.

Nature & Sports

Kenya is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, boasting a rare diversity of landscapes—from the rolling plains of the Maasai Mara to the lush highlands of Mount Kenya and the untouched wilderness of Samburu. National parks and reserves shelter some of the most abundant wildlife on the continent, offering thrilling opportunities for game drives, birdwatching, and immersive eco-experiences. Kenya’s dramatic Rift Valley lakes attract millions of flamingos, while its coastal marine parks offer an entirely different world beneath the surface.

For active travelers, Kenya provides endless ways to explore. Hiking and trekking routes wind through alpine forests and volcanic peaks, while mountain biking, horseback safaris, and hot-air balloon flights offer alternative perspectives on the wilderness. Along the Indian Ocean, travelers can enjoy world-class snorkeling, diving, and kite surfing, all set against white-sand beaches and warm turquoise waters.

Culture & History

Kenya’s cultural fabric is woven from more than 40 ethnic communities, each contributing unique traditions, music, cuisine, and craftsmanship. From the pastoral heritage of the Maasai and Samburu to the coastal Swahili culture shaped by centuries of trade, visitors can experience a rich interplay of customs that have endured and evolved over generations. Markets, artisan villages, and community visits offer meaningful insights into daily life and ancestral practices.

Historically, Kenya has been shaped by ancient kingdoms, Arab and Portuguese influence along the coast, and later British colonial rule, all leaving their mark on the nation’s architecture, cuisine, and languages. Sites such as Fort Jesus, Lamu Old Town, and various prehistoric Rift Valley locations provide a deeper understanding of Kenya’s long and complex timeline. Today, Kenya’s thriving arts scene, conservation movements, and commitment to cultural preservation highlight a country with a proud past and a dynamic future.