Tag Archives: Editor’s Pick

Hidden Gems in Kenya You’ve Probably Never Explored

June 16, 2025 zurukenya Leave a comment

Forget the famous travel destinations for a minute; beyond the well-trodden paths in Kenya lies a world of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a local explorer or a visitor looking to go beyond the tourist trail, these underrated spots offer unforgettable experiences with fewer crowds and more magic.

1. Lake Ellis – Mount Kenya’s Secret Escape

Tucked on the eastern slopes of Mount Kenya, Lake Ellis is a pristine alpine lake offering unmatched serenity. Surrounded by rolling moorlands and misty peaks, it’s the perfect spot for picnics, hiking, fishing, and photography. And best of all? You’re likely to have it all to yourself.

How to get there: Via Chogoria route, a 4WD is recommended.

2. Ngare Ndare Forest – The Magical Blue Pools

Just outside Nanyuki, Ngare Ndare is an indigenous forest where turquoise pools shimmer under ancient fig trees. A canopy walk suspended 10 meters above the forest floor gives you a bird’s eye view of the untouched landscape. Swim under waterfalls or hike the lush trails — it’s a dream for nature lovers.

Pro tip: Combine with a trip to Ol Pejeta Conservancy nearby.

3. Ruma National Park – Kenya’s Least Known Park

This hidden wildlife sanctuary near Lake Victoria is home to Kenya’s last remaining population of roan antelope. It’s also a birding paradise with over 400 species. If you’re after off-grid game viewing, this is your spot.

Fun fact: It’s often called the “Last Retreat of the Roan Antelope.”

4. Chepkiit Waterfall – Elgeyo Marakwet’s Cascading Wonder

Deep in the Kerio Valley lies Chepkiit Falls — an awe-inspiring waterfall nestled within cliffs and thick forest. Very few people outside the region know about it, but it’s easily one of Kenya’s most beautiful natural landmarks.

Tip: Go with a local guide to get the best access and stories behind the falls.

5. Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park – Untouched Coastal Paradise

While Diani and Watamu take the limelight, the marine park near Shimoni is a diver’s haven. Swim with dolphins, snorkel coral gardens, and spot turtles — all in crystal-clear waters far from the crowds.

Perfect for: Day trips from the south coast or unique underwater experiences.

6. Lake Chala – The Crater Lake on the Border

Straddling the Kenya-Tanzania border, Lake Chala is a stunning crater lake with waters that change color throughout the day — from turquoise to emerald. It’s peaceful, mysterious, and ideal for kayaking or meditative walks.

Where to stay: Lake Chala Safari Camp or do a day trip from Taveta.

The real magic of travel lies in discovery. Exploring Kenya’s hidden gems allows you to avoid overcrowded tourist spots and truly connect with the land and its people. By venturing off the beaten path, you not only experience the country in its raw, untouched beauty but also support local communities that rarely benefit from mainstream tourism. Along the way, you’ll discover stories most never hear about — rich in culture, nature, and authentic Kenyan spirit.

So next time you’re planning an escape, skip the usual and take the road less travelled.

Where to stay

The Social House Nairobi: 1.3° from The Equator. 180° from Ordinary

February 19, 2025 zurukenya Leave a comment

A Little Offbeat, A Lot Extraordinary: The Social House Nairobi is anything but ordinary—offering unusual cuisines, unexpected events, untypical meetings, and unorthodox interiors. It’s a place where unconventional spaces meet uncommon people, living up to its tagline: “1.3° from The Equator. 180° from Ordinary.”

Located in the west of Nairobi, this boutique hotel is more than just a stay—it’s a social hub where friends, family, and creatives come together in a vibrant, fun, and inspiring environment. Though casual in feel, The Social House creates a warm, home-like atmosphere, making every visit feel effortlessly welcoming.

With 83 stylish rooms, 7 dynamic event spaces, 4 diverse restaurants, an outdoor pool, a gym, and a buzzing back garden, there’s always something happening here. It has quickly become a go-to spot for entrepreneurs, artists, and creatives looking for a fresh and lively space to connect.

Designed to be Simple (easy to navigate), Stylish (natural tones with bold pops of color), and Sensible (practical and guest-friendly), The Social House Nairobi is redefining hospitality—one unordinary experience at a time.

Versatile Spaces for Every Occasion

The Social House Nairobi offers a variety of event spaces, perfect for lounging, working, or hosting gatherings. With a dynamic calendar of weekly events, there’s always something happening.

The Shed (Ground Floor) – A relaxed indoor-outdoor space overlooking the garden, complete with a large TV and four Bose speakers, ideal for casual meetups or entertainment.
The Library (Ground Floor) – A blend of indoor and outdoor seating, featuring dedicated workspaces, making it the perfect spot for productivity while on holiday.
The Snug, The Garage, The Studio, and The Workshop (Fifth Floor) – Intimate and well-equipped spaces designed for independent work, brainstorming sessions, or private meetings.

Whether you’re here to unwind, collaborate, or create, The Social House has a space tailored for every need.

Restaurants

The Social House has four restaurants, each offering a variety of options.

Copper – Where Fire Meets Flavor

As one of The Social House’s four distinct restaurants, Copper is best known for its open-fire grill, serving up expertly crafted meat and fish dishes, alongside a generous selection of vegetarian options.

Highlights from the starter menu include beef carpaccio, grilled prawn avocado and beef empanadas. Of the main dishes, highlights include the red wine-infused BBQ pork chops, tomahawk wagyu, and Thai green vegetable curry. Copper also offers a series of signature cocktails. Guests may want to try the Dukuu; A bold blend of naked whisky, pineapple juice, passion fruit, lime juice and grenadine or the Mar-tea-ni; A unique mix of tea gin, Walker Black, martini rosso, ginger syrup, and lime juice.

With its warm ambiance and rich flavors, Copper is the perfect spot for those who appreciate fine dining with a fiery touch.

The Other Room – Classic Dishes with a Twist

For those craving comfort food with a creative touch, The Other Room is the perfect spot. This poolside, farm-to-table restaurant serves up fresh, flavorful dishes around the clock.

Highlights of the Other Room’s menu include a chicken caesar salad, avocado toast, tangy asian pork ribs, as well as a variety of brunch and breakfast options. Enjoy both a buffet and an à la carte menu, available 24/7 for whenever hunger strikes.

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely brunch, a late-night bite, or a poolside feast, The Other Room promises fresh flavors and a laid-back vibe.

The Living Room – The Heart of The House

A cosy café-bar and coffee roastery, The Living Room is The Social House’s inviting hangout spot, designed for guests to feel right at home.

The Living Room which is open 24/7 serves pure Kenyan coffee freshly roasted in-house and offers a warm, relaxed ambiance for work, socializing, or unwinding.

Whether you’re in for a morning caffeine fix, an afternoon meeting, or a late-night wind-down, The Living Room is where comfort and quality meet.

Inca – A Taste of Peru on the Rooftop

Perched atop The Social House, Inca is a vibrant rooftop restaurant offering a bold and colorful ambiance with shades of blue, pink, orange, and purple.

Designed for sharing, Inca’s Authentic Peruvian menu brings rich flavors and fresh ingredients to the table.

Menu Highlights here include: Tuna Incataki (Lightly seared tuna with citrus soy sauce, sesame seeds, and oyster sauce) and Langostino Popcorn (Crispy arrebosado prawn paired with house chili mayo).

With breathtaking rooftop views and an electric atmosphere, Inca delivers an unforgettable dining experience, perfect for those looking to explore unique, shareable flavors.

From its vibrant ambiance to its thoughtfully curated experiences, The Social House Nairobi is more than just a place to stay—it’s a space to connect, unwind, and indulge; every moment here feels like home with a twist of adventure.

If you’re looking for a destination that blends comfort, culture, and community, The Social House is where you belong. Until next time, stay social!

Where to stay

7 Top Hotels to Stay in While in Nairobi

January 20, 2025 zurukenya Leave a comment

Nairobi, Kenya’s vibrant capital, offers a wide range of accommodations catering to every traveler, from luxury seekers to business professionals. Here are some of the top hotels to consider during your stay:

1. Giraffe Manor

Highlight: Get up close and personal with giraffes.

Why Stay: Giraffe Manor is an iconic boutique hotel where guests can share breakfast with giraffes poking their heads into the dining area. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience blending luxury with wildlife encounters.

Location: Langata, Nairobi.

2. Villa Rosa Kempinski

Highlight: 5-star luxury with European flair.

Why Stay: Known for its elegant rooms, impeccable service, and world-class spa, this hotel is perfect for business and leisure travelers alike. The fine dining options are a must-try.

Location: Chiromo Road, Nairobi.

3. Hemingways Nairobi

Highlight: Sophisticated boutique experience.

Why Stay: With spacious suites, personalized service, and stunning views of the Ngong Hills, Hemingways offers a serene escape with a touch of colonial charm.

Location: Karen, Nairobi.

4. Fairmont The Norfolk

Highlight: A historic hotel with modern amenities.

Why Stay: Opened in 1904, The Norfolk is a landmark of Nairobi. Guests enjoy luxurious rooms, a lush courtyard, and a central location close to the city’s attractions.

Location: Harry Thuku Road, Nairobi.

5. Tribe Hotel

Highlight: Stylish design and vibrant atmosphere.

Why Stay: Tribe combines contemporary architecture with African art. It’s adjacent to The Village Market, a premier shopping and entertainment destination. Perfect for young and trendy travelers.

Location: Gigiri, Nairobi.

6. Sankara Nairobi, Autograph Collection

Highlight: Rooftop pool and bar.

Why Stay: Sankara is a luxury hotel with a cosmopolitan vibe. The rooftop bar and pool are great for unwinding while enjoying city views. The hotel also boasts excellent dining options.

Location: Westlands, Nairobi.

7. Nairobi Serena Hotel

Highlight: Tranquil gardens, luxury amenities, and prime location.

Why Stay: Nairobi Serena Hotel offers a seamless blend of five-star luxury and authentic African hospitality, the hotel provides top-notch amenities, including elegant rooms, fine dining options, and a serene outdoor pool. Its an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers seeking a refined and relaxing stay in the heart of Nairobi.

Location: Kenyatta Avenue, Nairobi

Where to stay

The Cliff : Chic tented camp meets boutique hotel in Lake Nakuru National Park

October 23, 2023 zurukenya Leave a comment

The Cliff – Operated by the Wilder Group, the region’s premier group of luxury tented camps and unique experiences – blends space and scenery with style and service atop a 100metre high rock face overlooking the magnificent flamingo feeding ground; Lake Nakuru, woodlands and forests protecting the popular lake.

While ‘luxury camp’ is the simplest description, in reality The Cliff located inside Lake Nakuru National Park defies conventional labels, being a combination of safari lodge, tented camp and boutique hotel, constructed and furnished in a contemporary European style. The property is easily accessible within the great rift valley, a two and a half hour drive from Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city and approximately three miles from Nakuru town.

Accommodation

Each tent is built on solid foundations at the edge of the cliff, and faces the lake, allowing guests 180 degree views of the panoramic paradise, yet maintaining privacy. Not wanting to waste the view, the tent is spacious and the freestanding bath looks outwards. While the exterior environment at The Cliff is pure Africa, the room interiors combine organic chic with international design to create the understated style of a modern boutique hotel.

Guests can sit on the veranda to catch the rising sun in the morning as it spreads its vivid light across the lake, nudging life into the park’s occupants and awakening its environs. At the same time, as the sun sets in the evening, the atmosphere of the park settles into the comforts of the unfolding night and the nocturnal sounds of the wilderness.

Activities

It would be easy for a guest at The Cliff to spend the day gazing at the view from the comfort of the elegant tent, but there’s more to do around Lake Nakuru. Get up early and go on a game drive in the open-sided Land Cruisers, and perhaps see a leopard, lion, buffalo, rhino or a rare Rothschild’s giraffe. Hippo can also be sighted around the lake, and for birdwatchers, Lake Nakuru National Park is birdwatcher’s paradise with its incredible bird variety including the famous pink flamingoes.

If guests prefer their game drive as the sun goes down they might like to visit the gym before breakfast, relax by the infinity pool with a cold drink just before lunch and have a soothing massage in the spa before heading out at 4 pm. While the day is busy, the pace itself is tranquil, the only disturbance (if you can call it that) being the calls from the nearby fauna.

The cliff offers conference facilities for groups of up to 20 delegates looking to break away and be inspired by the bush for their strategy sessions. This is the perfect way to bring the team together in a setting that will spark creativity and help them think out of the box. And it includes the added bonus of safari adventures!

Whatever your calling – international traveller, smart weekender, corporate strategist, or nature watcher – The Cliff, with its sensitive blend of space, privacy, style, service and scenery will make you feel on top of the world.

Home

Mahali Mzuri: World’s Best hotel + Top Safari Lodge in Africa

September 17, 2021 zurukenya Leave a comment

Born out of a need to preserve the Maasai Mara ecosystem, the luxury safari camp that is Mahali Mzuri is indeed living up to its name as the “beautiful place” it was designed to be; that’s if the Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2021 is anything to go by. Voted best hotel overall worldwide, this camp located in the private Olare Motorogi Conservancy is a must tick on your travel bucket list.

Mahali Mzuri luxury safari tents — CREDIT: COURTESY OF MAHALI MZURI

Part of the Virgin Limited Edition collection, Sir Richard Branson's majestic safari camp in the Masai Mara is "just perfect," according to one voter. The seemingly space-age tents somehow rise up out of the landscape and blend in with it simultaneously. Wildlife remains abundant in the surrounding bush — ideal for the twice-daily game drives — and the guides are extremely knowledgeable. One respondent raved about the "excellent service," adding that "the hospitality provided at Mahali Mzuri resembles the name," which means beautiful place in Swahili. Another reader says simply that it's "the best luxurious camp to visit on the African continent."

Score: 99.73
More info: travelandleisure

Mahali Mzuri is home to 12 no ordinary luxury tents; each fitted with an ensuite private bath, cozy bedding, leather furniture for lounging, grand clawfoot soaking tubs, and expansive windows and doors that open up to a massive deck where you can easily soak up sunrises, sundowners and everything in between. To paraphrase the establishment, The camp’s excellent location gives you a front-row seat, not just to the annual great migration, but also to the abundant game you get the pleasure of seeing all year round.

Guest suite at Mahali Mzuri, voted one of the best hotels in the world — CREDIT: COURTESY OF MAHALI MZURI

“Our super stylish tented suites make for the perfect retreat during your stay. We can cater for up to 24 guests in the camp at any one time, so you are guaranteed peace and quiet, as well as excellent customer service at all times.”
~ Mahali Mzuri

“It is an exceptional honour and dream come true to be named as the Number One Hotel in the World by Travel + Leisure’s knowledgeable readers,” says General Manager Wilson Odhiambo. “Being recognized in any capacity by one of the most respected and renowned resources on travel globally is incredible in itself. Receiving two accolades, including Number One Safari Lodge alongside World’s Best, is exemplary and a recognition of the hard work and dedication that every single person in our Virgin Limited Edition team puts into Mahali Mzuri and serving its incredible guests each and every day.”

Travel + Leisure recognizes the top hotels, islands, cities, cruise lines, airlines, spas, and more, based on the results of their readers’ survey. Readers rated hotels on rooms/facilities, location, service, food and value. This year’s World’s Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three year period.

The 2021 World’s Best Awards lists, as well as survey methodology, are currently featured on www.travelandleisure.com and will appear in the October 2021 issue of the magazine, on newsstands September 17. This year, the awards will see the Virgin Limited Edition collection triumph as Kasbah Tamadot, its beautiful retreat in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, is also named the Number One Resort in North Africa and the Middle East for the fourth year.

Lifestyle

5 Off-the-beaten Instaworthy Spots in Kenya

May 11, 2020 zurukenya Leave a comment

With a burst of wild beauty and intangible spirit, Kenya barely falls short of spots designed to give your instagram feed that travel glow-up you desire!

In case you have been struggling to locate those brag-worthy spaces, we highlight some cool spots which we believe will speak to your nomadic self. There is no reason now why your feed shouldn’t have some aesthetically pleasing travel snaps!

Peep these off-the-beaten instaworthy spots around Kenya

The Giraffe Manor, Nairobi / @karina_nigay

An Instagram favorite, the giraffe manor has seen many travel miles upon miles just to capture that wow-mazing snap with it’s resident herd of Rothschild’s giraffes at the most unforgettable bucket-list breakfast in the world.

Old Town, Mombasa/ @ashleemajormoss

Reminiscent of the days when the Arabs exerted heavy influence on the town and its culture, and especially in the architecture. Old Town is well known for its ancient buildings, extravagant art designs and curio shops that sell antique and popular Kenyan souvenirs. Here, you will be spoilt for choice with an array of backdrops available for that perfect instashot!

The Majlis, Lamu/ @spiritedpursuit

Situated on Manda Island in Lamu, The Majlis offers you the perfect blend of Luxury, style, swahili culture and western comforts. Accentuate your feed with some ultra-stylish and elegant Lamu style decor with displays of antique Swahili furniture, African paintings and sculptures.

The Brandy Bus, Nairobi / @thebrandybus

How about an old-school bus revamped into a cozy and quaint home? The tones and eccentric details that this cottage style accommodation has to offer will definitely up your instagram with some enchanting decor and colour.

Shepherds huts, Nanyuki / @onestopnanyuki

As if having Mount Kenya as a backdrop is not priceless enough, the tasteful decor in shepherds huts at One Stop Nanyuki provides for spectacular travel snaps. If your feed features some neutral tones with some hints of greenery, this is the perfect spot for you!

Home

Maasai Mara: 5 Things that make it a Great Destination for Safaris

September 3, 2019 zurukenya 2 Comments

Every year, magic that attracts large numbers of tourists happens. Over 2 million herbivores, acting on uumm… animal instinct – and all that pun – move homes. The grass, they note, is greener on the other side. So they migrate from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to the Maasai Mara to enjoy a few months of pure bliss, fattening, a few births, and the usual survival of the fittest. This feat is so majestic that it has been dubbed The World Cup of Wildlife, and earned its place as one of the world’s wonders. But is that all there is to the Mara?

A little about Maasai Mara…
You cannot talk of parks in Africa without mentioning Maasai Mara. The 1.510km park lies southwest part of Kenya, and it borders the Serengeti of Tanzania. Several tented accommodations host over 100,000 visitors every year. On a random day of the peak season – usually July to October, you won’t miss at least five safari vans in the park.

Image: AJK
Image: Maasai Mara

Here are five fascinating facts about this national reserve.

The Locals love their Mara
One of the most unique things about Maasai Mara is its connection to the local community. You see, it is named for the Maa community that has lived here since the 17th century. The local authorities are in charge of the management of most of the park, a fact that has helped resolve wildlife-human conflicts in the region.

Image: AJK

Home to the Big Five… and then some
The Mara is home to almost 100 species of mammals. It is also where you will find all members of the Big Five: Lion, Elephant, Cape Buffalo, Leopard, and Rhinoceros. It makes sense that the park houses this large number being as it measures 1,510 km2.

Over the years, man has been unkind to wildlife, killing and exploiting game for his own benefit. However, a census done in 2017 shows the number of elephants, lions, giraffes, and almost every large mammal in the Mara to be increasing when compared to those of 2014. These good news can be attributed to the intentional conversation efforts being made by various parties, and we all laud them.

Quick fun fact: the Mara is also fondly known as the Kingdom of Lions.

Image: AJK

Four Different Topographies
The Mara is divided into four different topographies; Ngama Hills, Oloololo Escarpment, Mara Triangle, and Central Plains. Ngama Hills is 2025 meters above sea level and is characterized by sandy soil that black rhinos seem to love. The Oloololo Escarpment was once densely populated with trees, but elephants damaged most of them so that now it’s mostly grassland. The Mara River crosses here, making this area an animal haven.

The Mara Triangle is also mostly a lush grassland that borders the Mara River and is well-loved by animals. It is quite popular with visitors. In the Central Plains, you will find antelopes and gazelles that prefer to graze in the open grassland where they can see their predators.

Bird Species – so Many Types
If you are into bird watching, then you may want to camp at the Mara for a while. This haven is home to over 450 bird species, with White-Tipped Crest, Red-Winged Schalow’s Turaco, and Orange Buff Pel’s Fishing Owl among those roaming the open savanna freely. There are about 53 species of predator birds too.

Image: Mara Engai

Filming Ground of the Big Cat Diary
That BBC Film that keeps most of us glued to Nat Geo, Big Cat Diary, is shot in the Mara – in both the reserve and conversation parts of the park. Cool, right?

Been to the Mara?
Been there yet? Nothing beats seeing these beautiful animals roaming their natural home freely. If you haven’t, it’s never too late to make a trip.

Things to do

Solo Travel is the Best! Here’s 10 Reasons why…

April 5, 2019 zurukenya 3 Comments

While often times, people prefer to travel and explore new destinations in groups, (because it may seem like the safest choice, perhaps even more fun-filled) we are, as of more recently, seeing adventure seekers break off from the norm by taking what some would deem a “bold step” – going at it solo. Why would anyone prefer to travel all alone devoid of any company? might there be any comfort in doing so?

I would like to think that there are people out there who solely enjoy the experience of discovering and exploring new places by their lonesome. It might be a slight concern for some that there is “no safety in numbers per se” when you plunge yourself deep into solo travel but the benefits far out way the concerns.

Read for yourself…

You Are Your Own Master

Yes, you can be your own master when you are alone. You are not answerable to anyone if you stay awake till late or wake up late. You are not forced to go to places that you do not wish to visit or do things for someone’s happiness. You can do something only that pleases you. You get a lot of ‘me’ time. This is really important. If you visit with kids, you need to plan according to them which can take a lot of your time.

Boosts Confidence

Doing things that you have never done without anybody’s help will surely boost your confidence. Solo travelers have to book tickets and hotel rooms all by themselves. They have to find about other facilities and inquire about everything from others on their own. This helps them improve their communication and hence their confidence.

Easy to Plan

When travelling in a group every member’s opinion and likes and dislikes have to be taken into account. Someone has to forgo something for the sake of others. This compromise may rob the fun of the outing. But when it comes to solo travel, planning revolves around you. So, you can decide where you wish to go, when and how. The enjoyment factor will increase manifold.

Make New Friends with Ease

Traveling alone does not mean that you do not speak to someone. Yes, you can add new people to your friends’ list along the way when you share your thoughts and experiences and other things with them. This increases the friendship. This is solely your choice. In a group, it may not be so. You may have to give up a lot.

Get A Lot of Experience

Going about alone in a strange land amidst strange people may not be easy. You may have to learn a new language to mingle with the people. You may have to learn to eat and live like the local people. This will teach you a lot in life. These experiences will help you to grow and mature and help in nurturing your relationships.

Make Your Own Itinerary

A group decides to do things with a majority vote. A single voice crashes down. You have to go to a museum or a national park even if you wished to go to the beach instead. The whole trip you just went by someone’s wishes. Your wishes were curbed and that diminished your fun quotient. A solo traveler has freedom to go as per his or her wish.

Know Yourself Better

It is really important to know your potential and also your weaknesses. Only when you are on your own you can know about this. You are free to do what you wish. There is no pressure and reduced stress. Your performance increases and so does your efficiency. You will be surprised about yourself learning that you can accomplish a task which you dread doing.

Financial Management

You can learn to value many things when you are all on your own. A person who is a spendthrift and does not care about money may learn to value it especially in a new land when there is no one to help when you are short of money. This will teach you to manage your finances better. You will also learn not to spend it on unnecessary items.

Better Observer

You can learn to observe things better when you are alone. You need to be alert and manage everything on your own. You become responsible and also learn to take care of yourself which you may have not done all your life as someone took this responsibility. Increasing your observing skills will make you a better person.

More Satisfied

For many people gratification does not come easily. When travelling alone almost all wishes get fulfilled and a sense of satisfaction creeps in. This feeling of gratification helps a person to grow up and makes him or her calm from inside. You tend to understand others easily and can build relationships easily.

If you are yet to attempt solo travel, try it once and learn more about yourself.

Author Bio:

Know about Rohit Agarwal’s take on travel on the blog Trans India Travels.

Lifestyle

5 Things to do on an all vegan trip to Kenya

June 20, 2018 zurukenya 2 Comments

Veganism seems to be the new fad these days. Not because Vegan food is healthier than meat and stuff; but mainly because there’s a growing awareness among people in relation to a healthier ecosystem that involves non-killing and zero exploitation of animals for personal needs. The “revolution” is seemingly here to stay; with America having witnessed a skyrocketing 600% increase in converts since 2014 and the UK not being left far behind with an average 350% surge in their vegan numbers. The rest of the world is catching up too. Kenya included.

As the transition to veganism picks pace globally, it now seems increasingly easy to travel as a vegan. While Kenya has catered to plant-based diets for years, it was and still is to a large extent a bit difficult to find restaurants and/or accommodations that solely cater to herbivores – aside from Indian restaurants of course! – making it quite a difficult adjustment to your culinary tastes when you have to travel.

Experiencing other cultures and traditions is all swell – but if your interests lie more towards exploring the greener world around you as a vegan, Jenny Travens, let’s you in on 5 things you could do to not only make your trip a little bit more seamless but also benefit the planet and other people while at it.

Select the destination carefully

Give a good thought in choosing your desired destination. Research is everything! Being vegan, you obviously want to find out where the nearest vegan restaurant/café would be from where you’d be putting up – Google maps is your friend here. Your accommodation choice would also be dependent on whether the establishment offers plant-based diets or if they could recommend alternative eateries/supermarkets within their area.

Vegan restaurants galore

Even before you start, you dream of enjoying local yet tasty delicacies on your trip.

Travel bloggers believe that native and healthy foods are a prerogative of travelers. You just can’t keep them away from the popular food street. It’s like, if they haven’t tasted the favorite dishes of the region, their journey is incomplete. It is quite easy to follow a plant-based diet in Kenya as majority of our meals are vegan friendly.

Look for restaurants that serve vegan food. You can find plenty of vegetarian eateries wherever you go. Even the ones, who were serving non vegetarian food over the years, have now added meatless dishes to their menu.

One tip would be to go to an Indian restaurant. India is historically known for its vegetarian food habits. While in Nairobi, you can sample one of the Chowpaty restaurants – a four chain restaurant serving purely vegetarian. Rest assured you’ll find a plethora of amazing food items there.

Green memories

Shopping is a must on holidays! Isn’t it?

You can never go wrong with Kenyan-made artifacts that you for sure want to carry back as souvenirs. The Masaai Market is one thing you should look forward to for your shopping.

Refrain from picking things made of leather and suede. Instead, handicrafts and artifacts of paper, cotton, jute and vegetable fiber are a good buy. Fabrics like silk, angora and wool shouldn’t be preferred either. If you love books and stationery stuff, make sure it uses hand-crafted papers which are environmentally friendly.

Such items may not be that shiny, finished and have a machine precision look but certainly add to that vintage value. Believe it or not, most things of the past are making a comeback today.

A day at the countryside

This one is my favorite, to be honest.

48e85b9223f98b3c8ee3c611d7754ccf — Immerse yourself into country living by exploring Kenyan community-based village home-stay programs // image source: worldpackers.com

You can never experience the natural side of the terrain and landscape if you stay put in the city. People living in villages and back roads are always closer to nature. Immerse yourself into country living by exploring what the community-based village home-stay programs in the country have to offer. You might as well get your hands dirty with some farming and also enjoy varied cultural community practices while at it.

Promote Veganism in style

Let your entire trip be dedicated to encouraging vegan ways. Avoid partaking in events/tourism activities that may use animals or support animal exploitation such as donkey and camel riding. Also beware of products that owe their existence to the illegal wildlife trade.

Whilst you have a blast on your trip, don’t forget to let the rest of the world in on the vegan-friendly causes and activities you partake in. Social media can be a great tool to let people in on how the world is changing and growing responsibly.

Final Words –

Before winding up, let me share a cool marketing tip – Contribute to a cause and post it on Instagram. You’ll be amazed by the resultant reach and number of people you’ll appeal to!

————-

Jenny Travens –

Jenny is a creative blog writer who has many passions and interests. Health and wellness is one area where she likes to contribute as much as she can. She is currently contributing to – HxBenefit & Remedy.

Email – jennytravens9@gmail.com

Twitter – https://twitter.com/jennytravens

Home

We’ve been nominated: Please vote for us

January 22, 2018 zurukenya Leave a comment

Happy New Year!

2018 has started off on a high note for us and we’re delighted to announce that Zuru Kenya has been nominated in the Kenya Travel Awards 2018 by Jumia Travel! We’re up for Best Destination Website, and we’re pretty excited about it.

The awards aim at promoting Kenya’s tourism sector, and responds to the need of encouraging hoteliers to improve the quality of their services for further advancement of their respective destinations.

“By organizing these African Travel Awards, our mission is not only to recognize and reward the merit of local tourism stakeholders, but also to provide a credible benchmark for the African tourism industry,” said Joe Falter, CEO of Jumia Travel.

We’d be thrilled if you showed your support and voted for us. The process is straightforward and voting should take just a few minutes – all you will need to do is click the link, enter a few details and submit your vote. Anyone is welcome to vote, so please do feel free to share the link with your family and friends – it would be hugely appreciated! Plus Bonus! All voters will automatically be entered into the Awards’ prize draw, where you could win a stay in the winning hotel – oh my!

Voting closes on 26th January, with winners being feted at a ceremony which will be held on February 1st, at Fairmont the Norfolk from 6PM. In other Jumia Travel countries, the awards will be held simultaneously on the 25th of January; in Lagos, Algiers, Dakar, Abidjan, Accra, Douala, Dar es Salaam, and Kampala. Vote now!