Kenya is the Africa of films and daydreams. Known by scientists as the "cradle of humanity," Kenya is a rich and varied country where you can still see elephants grazing on grassy savannahs and rhinos drinking along riverbanks. Magnificent national parks bursting with wildlife have made Kenya a favourite safari destination, while vast stretches land still untouched by humans ensure that Kenya keeps its reputation as one of the world's last truly wild destinations.
Read our mini guide to Kenya...
A pentagonal-shaped block of land on Africa's east coast, Kenya sits right at the equator, and much of the country enjoys a tropical climate year-round. The coast, which looks onto the Indian Ocean, tends to be humid and hot, with strings of gorgeous unspoilt beaches ideal for relaxing and swimming. Water sports like scuba diving and windsurfing are becoming increasingly popular as well. To the west is huge Lake Victoria, of which only a part sits in Kenya. Both the coast and the regions around the lake are home to many of Kenya's natural parks, and they're popular areas for safaris.
Yet even more breathtaking than the lush coastal and western regions is Kenya's heartland, dominated by the soaring peak of Mount Kenya (5199 metres). Parks like Aberdare National Park and the Losai National Reserve have a privileged position here under the mountain's shadow. Hiking is popular on and around Mount Kenya, though some trails require climbing and long-distance trekking experience, and nearly all require the assistance of a local guide or escort.
Kenya's bustling capital is Nairobi, a cosmopolitan city that's home to some fabulous museums that offer a unique chance to study ancient African artefacts. An easily walk-able centre and numerous city parks make Nairobi even more attractive. Unfortunately, the city is also known for the muggings that take place here, and travellers should be cautious with their belongings.
Other places worth visiting in Kenya include the fascinating Muslim town of Lamu and the popular Masai Mara National Reserve, a beautiful park that borders the Serengeti plains and is home to untold numbers of wildlife, including lions, elephants, zebras, hippos and wildebeest. You can fly here from Nairobi and can take an aerial tour to see more of this vast park.
The coast of Kenya is a tropical paradise on the shores of the Indian Ocean. With its white-sand beaches, fabulous underwater marine environments and calm, warm waters, it should be no surprise that Kenya's coast draws beach lovers and scuba divers from throughout Europe and beyond. View Coast accommodation and mini guide...
