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Kenya a Gateway to Africa

Monday, April 11th, 2011

Kenya, the gateway to Africa for a fair chunk of Overlanders, the disembarkation point for others. Which ever camp you find yourself in, you’ll most likely have a few days either side of your Overlanding Africa trip to while away in Kenya. Here are some ideas on how to keep yourself from functioning as a bar prop. Photo By Sarit Can You Say, ‘Safari’? Wildebeest, buffalo, antelope, giraffe, elephants, the Big 5 – need we say more? Enjoy a Kenya Safari and discover the fabled Africa. Well known for its reputation as the ‘safari country of Africa’, Kenya is a burgeoning economy of safaris. The Great Migration resized Photo By Steve Safari The Great Migration Unfurls One of the biggest tourist attractions in Kenya, also referred to as ‘the greatest wildlife show on earth’. Taking place annually, the infamous Wildebeest Migration sees hundreds of thousands of ungulates trek to greener pastures. Read more on the migration misconception here (link to Migration misconception article). Tribal village resized Photo By Eric Lafforgue Tour a Traditional Tribal Village Many Kenyan tribes have stayed true to their roots and maintain the lifestyle of their ancestors. The more famous of the tribes, the Masai, are actually taking their newly harnessed ‘fame’ and making it work for them. It's possible for tourists to enjoy a cultural visit with the Masai tribe; this entails meeting the elder men (who will eagerly explain their way of life), enjoying a cup of chai tea, watching the performance of traditional dances. Saunter the Swahili Coast Region Kenya’s coastal region is quite unique and stands apart from the rest of Kenya, fusing African, Arabic and Indian cultures to create the colourful Swahili culture. Swahili has become the hybrid language understood and used by many natives to East Africa. Intriguing places one should consider stopping by include the island city of Lamu and the harbour city of Mombasa. Bear in mind the Kenyan coastal regions comprise of over 500 kilometres of beautiful white sandy beaches. Hot air balloon resized Photo By Andrew Wragg Balloon Tripping in Kenya Enjoy Kenya from an omnipotent view point. Kenyan hot-air balloon safaris open up kilometre upon kilometres of untouched and unscathed terrain gifting you a 360 degree view of the pristine bush. Mount Kenya resized Photo By Steve Safari Mount Kenya Trekking Africa’s second highest peak is an excellent trekking opportunity and delivers big time on regal views, magnificent sunrises, biodiversity, scenery and a breathless sense of accomplishment. From here you can see Africa’s giant, Mount Kilimanjaro, the Kenyan coast and Mount Elgon. You’ll want to be prepared and guided for this trek. Sail Away on a Dhow The traditional Kenyan dhow vessels offer a great sailing experience along the coastal shores of Kenya. Dhows were historically used by Arabic traders who used to frequent East Africa from the 8th century, and are still fully operational today. Kenyan Reefs resized Photo By B Smith Diving the Kenyan Reefs The diving and snorkelling possibilities offered by most of Kenya’s National Parks are supposedly at such high standards, most dive enthusiasts make a bee-line for them. Kenya’s coastal reef is in pristine condition, allowing many exotic fish to flourish. nairobi city centre resized Photo By Focal Smoke Nairobi - A Word of Caution Nairobi, or 'Nairobbery', is considered the hub of East Africa. However the nick-name Nairobbery is not without reason. If you choose to go anywhere in Nairobi, use a reliable taxi (ask for these at your hostel) and try to leave the bling at home, like wise for anything electronic, or in fact valuable. When travelling, some of the smallest nuances are what leave the greatest impressions, unexpected encounters and meetings, local interaction, traditional mannerisms and customs. Of course Kenya’s magnificence is undeniable, her nature is grand her wildlife spectacular, but it’s her quirks that imbue a visitor with a sense of place and Kenya is peppered with these. Get out there and feel Africa on a Kenya Safari. Browse our overland trips in Kenya here. If you’re still in 7 minds about which route to take through Africa, contact the well weathered experts at Overlanding Africa or stoke those fires of desire through our Overlanding Africa Trip Finder page.