AFRICA
Discover the Hidden Quirks of Kenya
Kenya
About
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, then Kenya is the place to go. Located in eastern Africa with a coastline along the Indian Ocean, this place is truly magical. Kenya tops many tourist’s buckets lists for its scenic landscapes, wildlife and white sand beaches
Amboseli National Park is famous for spotting herds of elephants and for the stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. This park is one of the best places in the world to get close to free-ranging animals, including zebras, wildebeests, lions and, of course, elephants. There is truly nothing else like it on Earth.
Visit Kenya between July and October, to witness the Great Migration, the most massive mammal migration on planet Earth. Millions of wildebeests and thousands of zebras and gazelles migrate from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park up to Kenya’s Maasai Mara during these dry months, and this is the best time to see the herds crossing on the Mara River.
Relax after a long day of exploring on one of Kenya’s stunning beaches, Diani Beach. With white sands, clear water and palm trees everywhere, this beach feels like paradise. Diani Beach is very quiet, so it is a great spot to relax under an umbrella with a drink. Visitors can also partake in different activities on the beach such as swimming with dolphins, kitesurfing or skydiving.
Things to Know Before You Go
- English and Swahili are the most commonly spoken languages throughout Kenya.
- Kenya’s currency is the Shilling (abbreviated KSH). Bring along some cash if booked on an all-inclusive safari for extras such as shopping or additional activities.
- Major airports in Kenya: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA or NBO) and Kisumu International Airport (KIS).
- Important to know the two rainy seasons. The first one begins at the end of March and lasts until May, while the other one is in November.
- Dry seasons (June to October) in Kenya averages at daily highs of 23°C/73°F in Masai Mara, and 28°C/82°F at lower altitudes in coastal areas such as Diani Beach. Wet seasons (November to May) in Kenya averages at daily highs of 27°C/81°F in higher altitudes, and 30°C/86°F in lower altitudes.
- Be careful when renting a car in Kenya as many roads can be in poor conditions. Watch out for potholes and animals and avoid driving at night. Ensure to lock doors and windows while driving as car theft is common.
- Kenya drives on the left side of the road.
- Do not drink the local tap water, buy bottled water instead. And, avoid requesting ice in drinks.
- Kenya power plugs are of type G. Voltage is 240 V and frequency is 50 Hz (same as in the United Kingdom).
- Bring binoculars with you to use for safaris
- Use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing to protect yourself from dangerous insects.
The Quirky and Unusual
Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant
Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant is set inside a coral cave and lit by candlelight. This restaurant allows one to have an unusual and different dining experience. Look up through the natural open ceiling to see the stars and the moon while enjoying a glass of wine and some food from the à la carte menu.
Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant is thought to be anywhere between 120,000 and 180,000 years old. It is situated 10 metres below ground near Diani Beach.
The restaurant also provides a free transfer service to hotels along Diani Beach.
Address: Ali Barbour’s Rd, Diani Beach, Kenya
Coordinates: -4.312592, 39.576845