Destination attractions things to do in kenya

Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest

Think of Kenya and you think of wild animals. And of course, most people visit this stable African nation to marvel at exotic animals in their natural setting. But Kenya also has a fascinating culture, gorgeous beaches, historic cities and some of the worlds most stunning scenery. Since its independence in 1963, Kenya has been a model of democracy for other African nations and today it welcomes the tourist who seeks something a little bit different.

For over 100 years visitors have been coming to Kenya, first to shoot the wildlife, and since 1977 when stricter conservation rules were established, simply to observe it. An African Safari is still one of the great travel experiences and there are many companies specializing in trips within Kenya, ranging from a few days to a few weeks, from primitive tent camping to luxury lodgings. A package safari, which is what most people take, usually includes your transport, accommodation, meals, an experienced guide C and of course the rare chance to see wild animals close up. It is also possible to take a do it yourself safari by renting your own minibus or van; several companies also offer horseback and camel safaris. Kenya has many National Parks and game reserves, and most of them offer various tours and excursions as well as accommodation in rustic lodges. Kenya also led the African continent in establishing marine national parks in the spectacular Indian Ocean reef; as a result some of the resorts along the Indian Ocean offer unparalleled diving and snorkeling.

Kenya boasts some of the worlds most dramatic scenery. Apart from the endless panorama of the bush and the spectacular views of herds of wildlife, one of the unforgettable sights is the Great Rift Valley. This huge crack in the earth, caused largely by volcanic activity, extends for more than 5000 miles through much of East Africa. Its a dramatic landscape of picturesque lakes, mountains, steep gorges and bubbling hot springs. It covers an enormous area and as with many places in this huge country it is best explored with a 4 wheel drive vehicle and a qualified guide. Some people find it difficult to believe that Kenya has snow, but Mount Kenya - despite being on the equator - has snow on its summit for much of the year. The mountain is part of a vast national park that offers mountaineering, hiking and trout fishing in the rushing mountain streams.

Kenyas two main cities, Nairobi and Mombasa both have their attractions. Nairobi makes a good base for safaris or trips into the surrounding bush. Its a cosmopolitan and well-planned city, with plenty of parks and gardens. Not surprisingly, Nairobi has one of the worlds best zoos at the National Museum. Mombasa, on the east coast of Kenya is one of the oldest and most exotic of African cities C a melting pot of Arab, Indian and many other cultures. The Old Town is the most fascinating part of Mombasa C originally a center for craftsmen, today its a maze of narrow streets and alleyways, and small houses, many with a distinctly Arabian feel. The Old Town is a good place to shop for carpets, brassware and other souvenirs. The symbol of Mombasa is the huge pair of elephant tusks that span Moi Avenue, made from aluminum and erected to commemorate the visit of Britains Queen Elizabeth in 1952.

North of Mombasa are some of Africas loveliest and unspoiled beaches. Kenya has its share of resorts with hotels and nightlife, but in between there are miles of empty tropical beaches. There are several smaller villages along the coast that cater to deep sea fishermen, for which this area is a haven. There are also stone ruins lying inland from many of the beaches, legacies from the days when Kenya was colonized by Islamic countries; some of the ruins also date from the days of slave traders.

For a real adventure, a trip to Kenyas relatively isolated northern region is to take a trip literally off the beaten track. A trip to this area requires some planning as most of the roads there are little more than dirt tracks and facilities such as gas stations are few and far between. In the northern region are many small tribes, living primitively off the land as they have done for centuries, most of whom welcome visitors. The Kurungu tribe not only has basic huts for travelers C they also put on a regular show of colorful ceremonial dances. The journey north from Nairobi takes you over hundreds of miles of desert and mountain to Lake Turkana, one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. The algae that live in the lake change color as the sun moves, from green to blue, giving the lake the nickname The Jade Lake. This beautiful spot is also where the first human beings may have lived, according to recent finds, almost 2 million years ago.