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Top Places in Kenya to Add to Your New Year Travel Bucket List

January 15, 2025 zurukenya Leave a comment

Kenya is a land of unparalleled natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cultures. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a beach lover, or a history enthusiast, this East African gem has something for everyone. Here’s an in-depth review of the must-visit destinations to inspire your 2025 travel plans:

1. Maasai Mara National Reserve

Known for: The Great Migration, Big Five wildlife, and Maasai culture.

The Maasai Mara is arguably Kenya’s most famous safari destination. Each year, millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles traverse its plains during the Great Migration—a natural spectacle unlike any other. Visitors can also spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) while enjoying luxurious safari lodges or authentic tented camps. Engage with the Maasai people to learn about their rich traditions and way of life.

2. Diani Beach

Known for: Pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and water sports.

Located along Kenya’s southern coast, Diani Beach is a slice of tropical paradise. It’s the perfect destination for relaxation, with its palm-fringed beaches and luxurious resorts. Adventure seekers can enjoy kite surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving, while nature lovers can explore the nearby Shimba Hills National Reserve or take a dhow trip to Wasini Island for dolphin watching.

3. Mount Kenya

Known for: Alpine scenery, trekking, and wildlife.

Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak, offers a mix of challenging climbs and scenic treks. The mountain’s slopes are home to diverse ecosystems, including bamboo forests and glaciers. Trekking routes like Sirimon and Chogoria provide breathtaking views of valleys, lakes, and peaks. Wildlife enthusiasts might spot unique species like colobus monkeys and Mount Kenya’s rock hyrax.

4. Lake Nakuru National Park

Known for: Flamingos, rhinos, and picturesque landscapes.

A jewel in the Rift Valley, Lake Nakuru is renowned for its flocks of flamingos that create a pink shoreline. Although their numbers vary with water levels, the park remains a haven for wildlife, including black and white rhinos, lions, leopards, and over 450 bird species. The park’s surrounding escarpments and waterfalls add to its stunning beauty.

5. Lamu Island

Known for: Swahili architecture, dhow sailing, and a laid-back vibe.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lamu Island offers a serene escape steeped in history. Wander through narrow alleys, explore ancient Swahili architecture, and visit historical sites like Lamu Fort and Shela Village. Take a dhow (traditional sailing boat) ride to explore the archipelago’s surrounding islands. With no cars on the island, life moves at a slower, more tranquil pace.

6. Samburu National Reserve

Known for: Unique wildlife and arid landscapes.

In northern Kenya, Samburu offers a less crowded but equally rewarding safari experience. The reserve is home to species rarely seen elsewhere, such as Grevy’s zebras, Somali ostriches, and gerenuks (long-necked antelopes). The Ewaso Ng’iro River provides a lifeline for the region’s wildlife, and cultural visits to nearby Samburu villages add a rich dimension to your trip.

7. Hell’s Gate National Park

Known for: Geothermal features, rock climbing, and biking safaris.

Hell’s Gate is a unique park where visitors can walk, bike, or climb alongside wildlife like zebras and giraffes. Its dramatic cliffs, gorges, and geothermal activity inspired the landscapes in Disney’s The Lion King. Explore the Olkaria Geothermal Spa for a relaxing soak after an active day.

8. Tsavo National Parks (East & West)

Known for: Vast wilderness and diverse ecosystems.

Together, Tsavo East and Tsavo West form Kenya’s largest national park. Tsavo East is known for its open plains and red-dusted elephants, while Tsavo West offers rugged landscapes with volcanic cones and the Mzima Springs, where you can watch hippos and fish through underwater viewing chambers.

9. Nairobi National Park

Known for: Proximity to the city and iconic wildlife.

Just a short drive from the bustling capital, Nairobi National Park provides a unique safari experience with a city skyline backdrop. It’s home to lions, giraffes, rhinos, and over 400 bird species. The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, located nearby, offers opportunities to learn about elephant conservation efforts.

10. The Aberdares

Known for: Misty forests, waterfalls, and unique accommodations.

The Aberdare Range is a lush, mountainous region with scenic waterfalls, bamboo forests, and cool highland air. Visitors can enjoy game drives to spot animals like elephants, leopards, and antelopes or stay at iconic lodges like The Ark or Treetops, which overlook active wildlife-watering holes.

Plan Your Adventure Kenya’s diverse landscapes and rich culture offer endless possibilities for exploration. Whether you’re chasing wildlife, relaxing by the beach, or immersing yourself in history, there’s a destination for everyone on this list. Start planning your New Year travels today, and make unforgettable memories in Kenya! Pack your bags and make 2025 a year of adventure and discovery!

Events

#SeaTheChange at the 2023 International Coastal Cleanup

September 16, 2023 zurukenya Leave a comment

Like clockwork, every third week of September, environmental change enthusiasts in the global scene come together to collect and document trash littering along the coastline as an effort to raise awareness of the massive threat our oceans face because of plastic pollution as well as deliberate on ways to eliminate ocean trash in the future.

Check out a few snapshots of the cleanup exercise below:

This initiative took root way back in 1986 driven by the passion and spirit of two committed individuals; Linda Maraniss and Kathy O’Hara. Themed “#SeatheChange” this year’s Mombasa Chapter cleanup was flagged off at Mombasa Marine Park; A successful event that featured volunteers from government institutions, the private sector, schools and the general public. The Kenyan chapter constitutes groups all along the Kenyan coastline; north & south. Some parties in the inland areas have in the recent years shown interest and also take part in the cleanup day.

Plastic pollution is a massive problem for our ocean, but even small actions can make a big difference. Every bottle, every straw, every piece of trash you clean up can lead to a cleaner, healthier ocean.

Regions

Why holidaymakers throng the coast for the christmas season

November 13, 2013 zurukenya Leave a comment

Its that time of the year again…well almost, just a few days remaining till December comes knocking. I’ll bet you anything that by this time most of us already have everything set for that Mombasa trip. You might not personally be traveling, but you most likely know of someone in your circles headed down to the coast for the holidays.

One thing is certain though, the Coastarians just can’t stand it when ‘Watu wa bara’ are around because suddenly the city gets congested, the beaches aren’t as relaxing and generally their comfort zone is altered.

Nevertheless, we attempt to define the phenomenon that has everyone running around trying to get last minute bookings…

Appeal of the Place

Photo credit: H2O-extreme

Its been a long year; work, school, exams…at the end of the day sun, sand and sea seems like the perfect remedy. Moreover, the exotic appeal of the Island popularly associated with fun, “Mombasa Raha” is a major pull factor.

Familiarity

Photo credit: Business daily Africa

For many individuals, this is one place they are guaranteed of having a memorable holiday experience, judging from last year’s events and the year before that. Be it visiting family and friends, quality of accommodation, people & culture or events… the reasons behind becoming repeat tourists here are varied and it is this sense of familiarity that makes this holiday destination tick for some.

End of year Events (Beach Parties)

The Kenyan coast is where its happening come end of the year…with a whole range of beach parties and events on offer, why would anyone want to miss out?

Safety in numbers

Many individuals tend to tag along with their friends simply at the thought of how much they’d be missing out…and as such the peer pressure factor comes in. On this occasion though, it is not such a bad thing…the more the merrier hey?

Imaging Each year, the Kenyan coast is captured as having been the most eventful region come Christmas and end of year. This drives the curious never-beens to head down come the next Christmas holiday season in order to find out for themselves what the fuss is all about. Imaging thus plays a key role here.

Nightlife

Photo Credit: Tom-Horton

Having worked hard all year, most travelers head down to the coast to let loose and what better way to achieve this than through its nightlife? Mombasa in itself isn’t a raving spot although you may find one or two joints within the city. The life of the party however is in the resort area north of Mombasa with places like Mtwapa promising to rejuvenate your spirits. Many revelers are bound to fall in love with this region and might have some difficulty leaving.

Whatever your reason for going to the coast this season, hope you have the time of your life!!

Hotels and Resorts

Msambweni Beach House

November 7, 2013 zurukenya 2 Comments

Msambweni House is located just south of Msambweni village on the remote southern coast of Kenya. This family owned and run property is uniquely set and enjoys seclusion away from the busier south coast areas, a stay here thus guarantees utmost exclusivity.

This small boutique lodge appeals to individuals seeking personalized service and an intimate beach experience. It constitutes three suites in the main building, two detached cottages and a further tented room. Maweni Beach House is well thought out with its elegant Swahili-inspired design oozing pure luxury.

Expect top level comfort and service in this high-end property. Having your own private jacuzzi looking into the Indian ocean, butler service, and other staff at your disposal, Msambweni House is just the place to be. Highlight of the house is certainly its stunning centre-piece infinity pool that merges with the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. A whole range of activities are also offered here.

The dining experience here is divine with meals being centred on Swahili, Belgian and French cuisine.Children of all ages are most welcome at Msambweni Beach House. There are no specific child care facilities but babysitting can easily be arranged. It is possible to tailor food requirements to children’s tastes and arrange for earlier meal times if required.

Msambweni House is almost certainly the best upper-end market option in the south and is open for rental on an exclusive basis. Keep in mind though, December is peak season so be sure to make reservations earlier in advance. It remains closed in May.

Hotels and Resorts

Alfajiri Villas

October 28, 2013 zurukenya Leave a comment

We begin our feature on must do coastal accommodations for the December holidays at Alfajiri Villas in the southern region. Originally the Beach Villa, this Italian owned property is up there as the best exclusive villa on the East African Coast. So much so it was awarded the Harpers and Queen award for the private villa providing the best service worldwide in 2002.

Situated within Diani, an hour’s drive south of Mombasa airport, guests are provided with an option of either Garden Villa, the Cliff Villa, or the Beach Villa (book months in advance for the latter). These luxurious double-story villas, owned and run by Fabrizio and Marica Molinaro are well thought out, elegantly styled, and very private. All are rented out on an exclusive basis.

The Garden and Beach Villas feature four double en-suite rooms whereas the Cliff Villa supports two doubles, a twin and a triple. Service here is exceptional and so is the dining experience but the selling point at Alfajiri is definitely its exclusivity. Something that has seen famous names like Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie frequent the property.

Alfajiri villas gives you good value for money be sure though, it does not come cheap! Nonetheless, with the most desirable holiday location on the entire African coast, top quality service and the ultimate luxury experience, its well worth it.

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Holiday! Holiday! Holiday!

October 23, 2013 zurukenya Leave a comment

December is almost here with us and we know what that means…most of us will be headed to the beachside for the holidays. Join us as we feature resorts, hotels and apartments that we think should simply be at the top of your to do list!!! As you plan for your holiday we make it easier for you to select your accommodation at the coast.

Regions

Mombasa: The “Island of war”

October 14, 2013 zurukenya 2 Comments

Situated on the Eastern coastline, bordering the Indian Ocean, Mombasa is Kenya’s second largest city and the top coastal destination. The city, originally known by its Arabic name منبعثة Manbasa, was popular as ‘Kisiwa Cha Mvita’ Swahili for “Island of War”, due to the many changes in its ownership. Sitting on an island it is separated from the mainland by two creeks Tudor and Port Reitz.

Image credit: Joe Lukhovi

Mombasa city overflows with an abundance in culture that dates back to its history as a significant trading center. The Swahili culture at the coast today has retained ancient customs and traditions highly influenced by the Portuguese, British, Chinese, and Arab settlers. The city is also affiliated with great explorers like Vasco Da Gama – the first European to land in the then town, with several memorabilia still standing to portray the historic presence of the Portuguese in the coast. The Mijikenda, Swahili, Arabs, Taita, and Akamba are among the Inhabitants of this beautiful land. Whereas the major religions practiced are Islam, Christianity and the Hindu.

Source: Magical Kenya

Aside from being an important regional tourism and cultural center, Mombasa is also a significant economic hub. It boasts of a large seaport, the Kilindini Harbour, that serves not only Kenya but also links other interior countries to the Indian Ocean. The rich marine life is also something to brag about allowing individuals the pleasure of pursuits like scuba diving, snorkeling, deep sea fishing among others. Mombasa is also envied for its nightlife, its lovely weather, phenomenal white sandy beaches as well as its quality beach resorts. Revellers can enjoy a good time out in the many night spots available most of which are beachfront. Some of the top hotels here also offer their own clubs.Other entertainment spots in Mombasa include casinos, cinemas and a Little Theatre Club, the latter of which puts on some fun shows. The region is also known for its divine dining experience where travelers get to enjoy aside from fresh sea food, internationally-inspired cuisine, that includes but is not limited to Chinese, Indian, Italian, and Swahili.

Getting Around
Mombasa is the central access point for the entire coastal region. It can be accessed directly from Nairobi by air, road, or rail. There are scheduled flights to Mombasa as well served by Moi International Airport although travelers can also access the coastal city via various airstrips. The main mode of transport around the town is by matatus, Taxis and tuk tuks. Some of the historical sites in the city can also easily be accessed on foot.

Must do in Mombasa:

Fort Jesus

Fort Jesus is Mombasa’s most popular tourist attraction. The fort, located along the coastline near the Old Town, is a monumental piece of architecture that was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese. The fort has a museum that displays various artifacts from the era where Mombasa served as a transit point for the slave trade and commodities, and which enjoyed regular visits by seafarers and the like.

Its interior comprises of torture rooms and prison cells where slaves were kept in captivity before being traded. Weapons such as canons, which were used to defend the fort from invading foreigners as well as rioting locals, can be seen both inside and outside of the fort. The fort opens its gates for viewing in the morning and closes at dusk.

Old Town

“Old Town” is the part of Mombasa that is reminiscent of the days when the Arabs exerted a heavy influence on the town and its culture, and especially in the architecture and language (Swahili has a lot of phrases derived from various Arabic dialects). It is well known for its ancient buildings, extravagant art designs and curio shops that sell antique and popular Kenyan souvenirs.

Old Town is best seen when explored by foot with an experienced guide, as the streets are too narrow to accommodate a large number of vehicles. The town’s inhabitants are mostly of Arab origin who’s forefathers once roamed the same streets of the town. Fort Jesus is located just a few steps away from where the town “starts”, thus a complete tour of the fort and the “Old Town” can be done in a single day.

Mombasa Elephant Tusks Like the great arches of St Louis and the Eiffel tower, the great elephant tusks monument in downtown Mombasa is probably the cities enduring monument and landmark known world over. Built to commemorate the visit of Queen Elizabeth to the town in 1952, the pair of overarching, giant intersecting elephant tusks sit astride eastbound and westbound lanes of the busy Moi avenue and are a symbolic representation of entrance into the heart of the town.

The “tusks” aside from symbolizing the ivory trade that Mombasa, and Kenya overall, was known for also coincidentally spell the letter “M” for Mombasa. Take a leisurely walk along this road and look at the various shops or buy curios. You can even stop by the many restaurants to eat your favorite Arab, Swahili or European themed foods.

Hindu Temples

Hindu temples are one of the many symbols of Mombasa’s cultural diversity. Temples are a popular tourist spot and a tour can usually be taken inside the temple, with a historical background of the particular temple given by one of the temple gurus. Extravagant idols and stone carvings of the various religious beliefs are typically displayed within the temple and on its walls.

A popular spot for locals and international travelers alike, Mombasa is undoubtedly the perfect coastal holiday destination.

Home, Press

Kenyans unite to assist Westgate Mall Attack victims

September 22, 2013 zurukenya 1 Comment

Following the Westgate Mall attack yesterday, Kenyans have turned up in large numbers to donate blood for victims. Various designated blood donation centers in the country include Kencom and Moi sports centre Kasarani (where the Safaricom7s is underway) in Nairobi, Koblenz hall, Agha Khan Hospital and Pandya Hospital in Mombasa, Agha Khan Hospital in Kisumu, Moi teaching & referral hospital in Eldoret amongst others. Many other Kenyans have as well donated foodstuffs for the victims, even prepared breakfast meals for the security officers, press and all others who had camped at the site of the attack throughout the night.

Photo Credit: Kenya red cross society

The death toll has sadly risen to 59 people with 175 people wounded, as per Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph Ole Lenku’s latest statement. The Cabinet Secretary states that the siege at the mall continues, but the security forces are in a “delicate” rescue mission that has seen over 1,000 people rescued from the mall since the Saturday morning attack.

The unity and goodwill showcased by Kenyans at large has been extremely encouraging and it indeed goes to show that we are one irregardless of color, race, tribe and even religion. Condolences to all who have lost loved ones as we continue to pray for you and those still held hostage and those in hospitals.

Some of the images captured following the attack yesterday…

Women carrying children run for safety as armed police hunt gunmen who went on a shooting spree in Westgate shopping centre

Photo Credit: Reuters

A child runs to safety across the shopping mall Photo Credit: Reuters

A mother and her children lie on the floor as they attempt to hide while the gunmen armed with automatic weapons go on the rampage Photo Credit: Reuters

Armed special forces aim their weapons at the Westgate Mall in Nairobi, Kenya Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013, after gunmen threw grenades and opened fire during an attack that left multiple dead and dozens wounded. Photo Credit: Khalil Senosi

A rescue worker helps a child outside the Westgate Mall, Photo credit: Riccardo Gangale

Photo Credit: Jonathan Kalan

An armed police officer takes cover during a bout of gunfire outside the Westgate Mall. Photo Credit: Ben Curtis

A Red Cross assistant helps a child outside the Westgate Mall. Photo Credit: Khalil Senosi

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Historical Sites, Things to do

Weekend City Tour

September 17, 2013 zurukenya Leave a comment

Over the weekend, we spontaneously decided to explore one of Mombasa’s oldest town and historical sites. On Sunday we went to tour Mombasa’s most popular tourist attraction, Fort Jesus where we spent a better part of the afternoon learning about its history and significance from our tour guide, Ali Mohammed whom we met by the entrance.

Our guide Ali explaining to us about the materials used to build the fort.

The view from the fort…beautiful!

One of the curio shops within the fort. This was formally the kitchen area used by the portuguese and the setting remains the same to date aside from some minor renovations.

Carol stands beside the tree believed to be 2 million years old, how outstanding!! This tree owes its existence to the Jurassic period and what stands here is believed to have been the roots of the tree that are now visible due to subsistence. The fort was built around it.

Ancient Portuguese art on display at the fort. The art was excavated from the fort’s grounds and due to aging the museum had to trace the drawings using graphite.

Remains of one of the Portuguese soldiers buried at the fort

Remains of the Portuguese chapel brought down by the Omani Arabs

An Omani chest

Gede ruins replica

After a few educative hours at the fort we headed on to the streets of Old town where we were awed by the architectural influence of the Portuguese and the Arabs on the buildings. The streets of Old town are always so alive with bright colours of the traditional coastal khanga and kikoy, the all purpose wrap around cloth worn by both men and women. The exotic town has retained its culture and one will find here busy markets, women along the narrow streets in traditional buibui, fishermen selling their fresh fish at the dhow docks and the sweet aroma of varied spices in the air.

Shark teeth Ancient homes with Indian Architecture One of the oldest mosques in the area. It is still in use today.Looks like residents here are Liverpool fans 🙂 The little Askari (soldier) guarding the place

A very old warehouse used to store goods during the Arab trade daysOur guide Ali seems to really love his job and is good at it too.

Almond tree

This was an afternoon well spent. Many thanks to our guide Ali Mohammed for the tour and the things we learnt. Hope to go on another similar venture soon!

Keep travelling and exploring!!!

Historical Sites

Fort Jesus (Fortaleza de Jesus de Mombaça)

August 17, 2013 zurukenya 3 Comments

Fort Jesus, undoubtedly Mombasa’s most popular tourist attraction, is a monumental piece of architecture built in the 16th century from 1593-1596 by the Portuguese. Sitting on the edge of a coral ridge overlooking the entrance to the old port of Mombasa, the Fortress which was built to protect the Portuguese trade route to India as well as their vested interests in East Africa is now turned Museum, declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 2011 and one of the finest examples of 16th century Portuguese military architecture.

Designed by Italian architect, Giovanni Battista Cairatiand and later dedicated and named “Fortaleza de Jesus de Mombaça” by the then-captain of the coast, Mateus de Mendes de Vasconcelos, the quadrilateral fort is comprised of four bastions; S. Felipe, S. Alberto, S. Mathias and S. Mateus and owes its existence to the Turkish raids of 1585 and 1588 which is what led to its construction.

Since its erection, Fort Jesus’ control has exchanged hands numerous times in counting; In 1631, Sultan Muhammad Yusif baptized as Dom Jeronimo Chingulia entered the fort taking the Portuguese by surprise and killing the Portuguese captain, Pedro Leitão de Gamboa. He also then massacred the whole Portuguese population of Mombasa (45 men, 35 women and 70 children) and after two months of siege, abandoned the enterprise becoming a pirate. Right After sultan Dom’s departure, a small Portuguese force under Captain Pedro Rodrigues Botelho, that had remained in Zanzibar, reoccupied the fort.

In 1696, Fort Jesus fell under siege from Omani Arabs but was easily relieved by a Portuguese expedition in the same year. Unfortunately though, in the following months a plague killed all the Portuguese of the garrison (50-70 portuguese soldiers) and by 1697 the defense of the fort was in the hand of Sheikh Daud of Faza with 17 of his family, 8 African men and 50 African women. After several other sieges from then, the Omani Arabs successfully took over the fort and with this conquest taking the whole coast of Kenya and Tanzania with Zanzibar and Pemba under their control. The fort had clearly become a vital possession for anyone with the intention of controlling Mombasa Island or the surrounding areas of trade. The struggle didn’t just end there though, the Portuguese were not one to accept defeat so easily as they retook Fort Jesus in 1728, when the African soldiers mutinied against the Omanis; a take over that didn’t last so long unfortunately. Tables turned the following year when the Mombasa locals revolted against them and put under siege the garrison. Years later during colonization, the British used the fortress as a prison, until 1958, when they converted it into a historical monument.

Today, visitors get to explore the gun turrets, battlements and houses within the walls of Fort Jesus. The national monument combines Portuguese, Arab and British elements, representing the major powers that held it at different times in history. The presence of the Portuguese and British is felt through their respective cannons; The Portuguese cannons had a range of 200 meters and are longer than the British cannons which had a range of 300 meters. The Omani Arabs on the other hand, left their mark throughout the fort with numerous Koran inscriptions showcased on the wooden door posts and ceiling beams whereas a former meeting hall supported by 5 stone pillars to the ceiling portrays their Muslim tradition of 5 pillars.

Those interested in learning more about the struggles that the fortress has housed over the years will be delighted by the spectacular sound and light shows hosted by the fort 3 nights in a week. On the night of the show, visitors are welcomed into the Fort by guards in flowing robes brandishing flaming torches. They are then led to a specially designed and choreographed show that uses lights, sound effects and costumed actors to bring to life the long and turbulent history of the Fort. After the show, the visitors are treated to a candlelit dinner in the open courtyard of the Fort, under the stars. The sound and light show can also be combined with a sunset dhow cruise on the Mombasa harbor.