Plan on Kenya

Plan Your Trip

In Kenya, we do it bigger, bolder, and with a warmth and swagger you won't find anywhere else. Why? 'Cause we can.

From timeless classics like Nairobi National Park and Fort Jesus on the Kenya Coast, to vibrant new experiences in the buzzing food scenes of Kilimani or the artistic energy of Dunga. Throughout the country, you'll find plenty of ways to fill your itinerary with unforgettable cultural performances, world-class dining, and epic adventures.

Start planning now! Find out how to get anywhere across the country, enjoying Nairobi's modern Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) network, the convenient Matatu culture, and flexible coastal ferry transfers, among other things.

Check our seasonal calendar of events for fun activities happening during your stay. And always take a look at our Kenya Travel Blog for the latest on hidden gems to explore, the best new beachside or lakeside restaurants to check out, and all the vibrant festivals happening every season!

Planning Essentials

Transportation

Kenya is served by four international airports with daily direct flights from major hubs worldwide. A robust domestic aviation network connects Nairobi to coastal and lakeside destinations, while the Standard Gauge Railway and Matatu routes make getting around easy.

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Weather & Average Temperatures

Enjoy year-round tropical sunshine tempered by highland breezes in Nairobi and the humid warmth of the coast and lakeside. Pack light layers for cooler evenings upcountry, and swimwear for beach days along the Indian Ocean.

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Nightlife

Follow the spontaneous energy of the Kenyan night — from high-octane clubs and rooftop lounges in Nairobi to beach bars on the coast. Wherever the evening takes you, the rhythm keeps going.

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Sports and Recreation

Kenya is a powerhouse of world-class athletes. With CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 on the horizon and major stadium upgrades underway, sports and recreation are part of the national heartbeat.

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Events

Fill your calendar with cultural festivals, fashion weeks in Nairobi, beach parties, boat regattas, and coastal food expos. There's always something happening across the country.

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Travel Accessibility and Inclusion

Karibu — you're welcome here. We're working to make travel spaces open and accommodating for visitors of all abilities, from accessible premium resorts to inclusive experiences across Kenya.

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Introducing the Mara Dawa

There's no better way to find the ultimate combination of tequila, lime and salt than Kenya's Mara Dawa—a self-guided tour of some of our best restaurants and cocktail bars.

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More to Explore

First Time Guides

First Timer's Guide to the Kenya's Museums

Everything you need to know before you go!

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The Ultimate Guide to Kenya's Expos & Events

What's all the fuss about? Find out why we count down to Magical Kenya Expo and other expos every year.

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The First Timer's Guide to Visiting Nairobi

What you need to know before you visit the Safari city of the world.

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Selfie Guide

Best Selfie Spots Kenya: From neighborhood gems to hidden spots to city landmarks — here are the best picturesque spots in Kenya for your next shot.

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Hotels

From budget to boutique to luxurious, with more than 250,000 hotel rooms you'll have no trouble finding the perfect place to get pampered.

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FAQs About Kenya

Contrary to popular belief, we're not just about safari vehicles and running champions. Kenya is an emerging global destination boasting dynamic regions of cultural cravings, including a thriving contemporary art scene and the world's only capital city with a full-fledged national park in its backyard. In Kenya, we're doing things bigger, bolder, and with a warmth and swagger you won't find anywhere else.

More Fun Facts

Where is Kenya located?

Kenya is located in East Africa, straddling the equator and bordering the Indian Ocean. It is known globally as the ultimate safari destination and a vibrant economic powerhouse in the region.

What's the weather like?

The weather in Kenya is predictably pleasant year-round due to its tropical climate and diverse topography! Instead of traditional seasons, Kenya has dry seasons (January to March and July to October) which offer warm days and cool nights—perfect for safaris. The rainy seasons (April to June, and November to December) bring lush green landscapes and fewer crowds.

How do I get to Kenya?

Thanks to its strategic position as the gateway to East Africa, getting to Kenya is easy! We have four international airports, led by Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, offering direct flights from major global hubs across Europe, the Middle East, the US, and Asia.

Do I need a car to get around Kenya?

While you can easily hire taxis or use rideshare apps like Uber in the cities, you don't necessarily need a private car. You can experience the famous Matatu (minibus) culture for local commuting, or board the modern Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) train to travel seamlessly between Nairobi and the Kenya Coast. For safari destinations, chauffeured 4x4 safari vehicles or domestic flights are the best options.

What is Kenya famous for?

Kenya is famous for its world-class wildlife safaris, long-distance athletes, the Great Rift Valley, and warm Karibu hospitality. From the Maasai Mara's Great Migration to pristine Indian Ocean beaches and Nairobi's thriving creative scene, Magical Kenya leaves a lasting impression.

What should I see and do in Kenya?

See the Big Five on safari, wander Nairobi National Park on the edge of the capital, explore Fort Jesus and Swahili culture on the Coast, hike or balloon over the Mara, and soak up lakeside sunsets in Nyanza. Mix wildlife, culture, food, and nightlife for an itinerary that's uniquely Kenya.

What sort of events does Kenya host?

The big ones include the thrilling WRC Safari Rally in the Rift Valley, the vibrant Lamu Cultural Festival on the coast, and various music and art festivals like Beneath the Baobabs. Of course, our local athletics meets and rugby tournaments (like the Safari Sevens) draw huge crowds every year!

What kind of food is there in Kenya?

Taste the unique fusion of flavors in Kenya, influenced by African, Indian, and Arab cultures. Sample local mainstays like Nyama Choma (roasted meat) with Ugali, fresh seafood cooked in coconut cream (Samaki wa Kupaka) on the Coast, and traditional lake fish in Nyanza. You will also find an incredible array of high-end international restaurants in Nairobi.

Are Kenyan cities walkable?

Parts of them are! You can easily explore Nairobi's central business district, historical areas of Mombasa Old Town, or the quiet streets of Kisumu on foot. For a truly unique experience, you can take a walking safari in select conservation parks or tour cultural hubs via a Bodaboda (motorcycle taxi).

What can I do in Kenya for free?

There's plenty to do when you're on a budget! You can picnic in Nairobi's Uhuru Park, hike through sections of the Karura Forest, watch local fishermen bring in their catch at the lakeside in Nyanza, or walk along the public beaches of the Indian Ocean without spending a shilling.

Is Kenya a good country for a solo trip?

Absolutely. Our world-renowned Kenyan hospitality (Karibu spirit) will welcome you right in and make you feel at home. It has an established tourist track and a massive expat community, making it easy to join group safaris, stay in social hostels, and meet fellow travelers.

Where is the best place to stay in Kenya?

It depends on your vibe. For business or transit, stay in Nairobi's central or upscale neighborhoods like Westlands. For a relaxing holiday, choose a beachfront resort in Diani or Watamu on the Coast. For nature lovers, booking an eco-lodge in the Maasai Mara or a lakeside resort in Nyanza provides the ultimate escape.

What are the best regions to visit in Kenya?

You can't visit Kenya without spending time in Nairobi, our green city in the sun, to see the world's only national park inside a capital city. The Kenya Coast (Mombasa, Diani, Malindi) is a historic bedrock of Swahili culture, marine life, and pristine beaches. Don't skip Nyanza and the Western Circuit for a distinctively local vibe, stunning sunsets over Lake Victoria, and rich cultural traditions.

More Local Culture

Food & Drink

Kenya is a blend of international cultures mixed with the tried and true flavors of the world and it shows in the amazing variety of dining options spread throughout the country.

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