Kenya offers so much more. Located in East Africa, straddling the equator, Kenya offers an incredibly diverse range of landscapes and ample opportunities for adventure. 

Central and western Kenya are dominated by lush highlands and plateaus, including the Aberdare Range, the Nyika Plateau, and the Mau Escarpment. Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak, stands at 5,199 meters (17,057 feet) above sea level and is surrounded by dense vegetation including giant heather, bamboo, and various species of trees. Higher altitudes are characterized by sparse moorelands,  while snowfields and permanent glaciers dominate the areas near the summit. 

Stretching along the eastern edge of Kenya bordering the Indian Ocean, the Kenyan coast is renowned all over the world for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, mangrove forests,  and  vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. As well as swimming, snorkeling, dolphin viewing and a variety of water sports, the coast offers great birdwatching, hiking, and wildlife viewing in its nature reserves, as well as the opportunity to immerse yourself in the coast’s vibrant Swahili culture, from architecture to music, dance, and incredible cuisine. 

Kenya is also home to several lakes, each with its own unique characteristics, morphology, and ecosystems. To the west is Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa and the second-largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area. With a thriving fishing industry and numerous communities living on its shores, visitors to Lake Victoria can enjoy fishing excursions, boat cruises, and visits to the various islands dotting the lake. Closer to Nairobi, in Great Rift Valley, is Lake Naivasha,  a popular destination for birdwatching, with over 400 bird species recorded in the area, including African fish eagles, pelicans, and cormorants. Nearby is Lake Nakuru, a shallow alkaline lake famous for its large population of flamingos and rare rhinos, while Lake Magadi to the south offers otherworldly, shimmering salt flats and dramatic views of the surrounding volcanic hills. 

Many of these lakes are part of the geological features formed by The Great Rift Valley, a series of interconnected rifts which runs through Kenya from north to south.  Known for its wide range of landscape and terrains, The Great Rift Valley offers infinite opportunities for exploration and adventure thanks to its mountain ranges, such as the Aberdares, and its deep escarpments (Mau Escarpment, and the Elgeyo Escarpment), as well as its numerous dormant and extinct volcanoes. On Mount Longonot you’ll be able to hike up to the rim of the crater, where you can spend time exploring unique geological features such as lava flows and fumaroles. Mount Suswa is another great place to hike, and offers visitors the opportunity to discover its extensive network of lava tubes and caves, and marvel at their fascinating stalactites, stalagmites, and other geological formations.  Mount Menengai is home to natural hot springs, and like the other volcanoes offers incredible wildlife spotting opportunities thanks to the presence of hundreds of species of birds, mammals, and reptiles.  

Of course no talk about Kenya would be complete without a mention of its biggest attraction: safaris! Kenya is renowned for its spectacular national parks and reserves, where visitors can enjoy guided nature walks and game drives in search of the famous Big Five, the iconic mammals which are historically considered the most elusive and dangerous to hunt on foot  — the elephant, the lion, the leopard, the buffalo, and the rhino. There will be no hunting here, but only ample opportunities to observe these incredible animals in their wild habitat. 

The Maasai Mara is one of Africa’s most popular safari destinations, and offers a wide range of possibilities in terms of accommodation and experiences, from “glamping” in luxury accommodation to spending a night in a Maasai village. As well as seeing the Big Five, here you will have a chance to witness one of the most awe-inspiring events in the natural world: The Great Migration, an annual phenomenon during which millions of wildebeest, zebra, and other animals migrate between the Mara and Serengeti ecosystems. Amboseli National Park in southern Kenya offers breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and is particularly known for its large herds of elephants.  Tsavo National Park (Tsavo East and Tsavo West) is one of the largest wildlife reserves in Kenya, and, as well as its  interesting geological formations such as the Mudanda Rock and the Yatta Plateau, is home to dozens of mammal species. Lake Nakuru National Park is famous for its large population of flamingos, and is also a sanctuary for the rare and endangered black and white rhino, while Samburu, in northern Kenya, boasts breathtaking rugged landscapes and unique flora and fauna. Inhabited by the Samburu people, who are known for their colorful beadwork and traditional dance and ceremonies, this national park is one of many places across Kenya to offer a deep insight into traditional ways of life through village visits and homestays. 

In short, from thrilling safaris in iconic national parks to challenging hikes up active volcanos or snow-capped mountains, getting the adrenaline pumping on motorbike adventures, marveling at otherworldly rock formations, exploring ancient caves, and immersing yourself in local culture, Kenya really has it all. 

If what you crave are authentic experiences and an adventurous approach to travel, look no further. Supaa Adventure Travels offers tailor-made experiences that prioritize sustainability, authentic cultural immersion, and the thrill of exploration. Contact us today, and let’s get started on creating your dream experience in the heart of Africa.