Unconventional Kenya Guide for First-Time Visitors

Besides the scenic landscapes, the alluring Mambosa coastline, and a historic center of African culture, Kenya has something more appealing. The safari life and the experience you get in Kenya are second to none. 

The wildlife conservation and sustainability projects in Kenya have paced up. Kenya is just the right place for anyone dreaming of walking around the lions, giraffes, and other wild animals. 

The country has suffered the worst terrorism in past years. Moreover, hunting led to the near-extinction of many wildlife species. Despite all of this, Kenya has supported wildlife protection and its economy again, attracting many tourists every year. 

Do I need a visa to visit Kenya?

Majority of foreign visitors need an e-Visa to enter the Kenyan territory. The idea of an e-Visa is a fairly new concept, and it functions as an electronic travel authorization issued by the Kenyan government. 

You can submit your application on evisa-kenya.com within minutes from home and receive the approved travel permit via email.

The approved e-Visa can be used for business, tourism, or transit trips. Moreover, all citizens of the countries eligible for electronic visas can submit online applications in a few simple steps. The cost of the Kenya e-Visa is just 99 Euro, while those willing to enter three countries in the Eastern parts of Africa must pay 149 Euro. 

The processing time necessary to process the application form may take up maximally 72 hours. Apply online preferably 3 business days in advance of your journey!

The soft sun-kissed mornings, the night camping, and dinner around the fire in the moonlit night and wandering around – this is just a dream unfolding before your eyes. 

In this unconventional guide to Kenya, we’ll unfold your dream together. Get to know the most unusual and adventurous tourism sites to visit in Kenya!

Recommended Read: Kenya Tour Packages

When Should I Visit Kenya?

Before you pack your bags and buy your tickets to Kenya, it is essential to know the ideal time to go there. Kenya has a pleasant tropical climate due to its location just on the equator. However, the weather may often vary due to altitude and other factors. 

When planning your tour to Kenya, consider the following factors:

  • July to September marks the dry season, and you’ll experience seeing wildebeest and zebras migration
  • December is marked with fewer rains. You can see the nature’s gifts of newborn animals and migratory birds
  • March, April, and May are characterized by generally wet weather and more rainfalls.

On a general note, July to September is the best time to visit Kenya because of its mild weather. However, you can choose the time based on your personal preferences too.

Also Read: Kenya Safari Package

Best Unusual Attractions to Try in Kenya

If you’re visiting this African heaven, We are sure you’re not planning to stay in your lux hotel room. If you get the chance to go to Kenya, adventure, exploration, and wild experiences are the most-craved things.

Here are some of the best unusual attractions waiting for you in Kenya. 

1. Nairobi Animal Orphanage 

In the heart of Kenya, Nairobi, Nairobi National Park hosts an exotic tourism attraction. It has been operating since 1964 and hosting a diversity of over 20 different animals and bird species. 

The most common species you will find are lions, parrots, hyenas, jackals, ostriches, and many more. Do pay a visit to these beautiful species surviving in their natural habitat. 

2. Mara River Crossing 

Every year ‘The Great Migration’ of 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles happen on the route of Serengeti and Massai Mara. 

If you happen to visit Kenya from July to September, take part in this spectacular event. Mara River Crossings hosts the view of the migration as well, as it’s an ideal place to spend a long day at the river. 

3. Giraffe Center 

The Giraffe center is also located in the capital of Kenya, Nairobi. Get a chance to befriend the lankiest beasts of nature. 

Since 1983, Giraffe Center has been working to preserve the beautiful-eyed, long-necked animals. It is a non-profit organization working to conserve Kenyan and African wildlife.

4. Marafa Depression

Marafa Depression is located in the city of Malindi. However, this isolated sandstone canyon is famed as a ‘place broken by itself.’ It was not always the ruins. Once, there was a range of hills and mountains, which got victim to winds, rains, and floods.

Different colored layers of the broken ridge and the shining sun, the view is not the one you wish to miss!

5. Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant

Diani Beach of Kenya is the most famous tourist attraction for the white sands and beautiful resorts. However, the sunset cannot be accompanied best by anything other than the local beauty of Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant. 

When you’re visiting Diani Beach, don’t miss the chance to dine in this restaurant. A whitewashed entrance going down to 33 feet under the ground is just an unforgettable experience. This cave is known to be around 120000 to 180000 years old. Enjoy a candle night dinner at this raw and natural beauty. 

6. Bomas Of Kenya 

Bomas of Kenya is another exotic tourist attraction nearby the Nairobi Animal Orphanage. It serves as cultural preservation and a tourist village. 

The replicas of traditional and cultural goodies, the depiction of Kenyan tribes’ culture, and ethnic dances are a few examples of things you’ll experience.

7. Kitum Cave

When you’re looking for exotic, adventurous, and unusual attractions in Kenya, Kitum Cave might be number 1. It is a salty cave, home to elephants located in Mount Elgon National Park. It was discovered by the Egyptians looking for gold, and it extends to around 600 feet into the mountain.

Must Read: Places to visit in Kenya

What Foods Should I Try in Kenya?

The exotic flavors and food assortments of Kenya are second to none in the world. If we start to list the best flavors of Kenyan savory, it might end up as piles of papers. You must try as many flavors as possible during your African stay.

You’ll get many international cuisines over there. However, if you visit Kenya, trying out local flavors is the best choice. We’ve chosen some of the best from the foods you must try in Kenya.

1. Ugali Na Sukuma Wiki

Ugali is the Kenyan staple dish that is made of cornmeal. The cornmeal is boiled in water until a dense cornmeal consistency is achieved. This is full of carbohydrates to keep you full for many hours. 

Ugali is often served with another native dish, which is Sakuma Wiki. It is made of collard green leaves similar to kale. It is stewed with red onions, tomatoes, and seasoning. 

The two are best served together, and you must try this local flavor at least once!

2. Nyama Choma

Nyama Choma translates to ‘burned meat’ in Kenyan. But, once your taste has familiarized the flavor, this delicacy is hard to forget. Chicken, beef, or goat meat is used for making this dish. The meat is cooked on hot coals and seasoned with salt to cook on its own. Once the juicy meat has become tender, it is offered with Kachumbari.

Kachumbari is the local name for a side dish or a salad. Onions, tomatoes, coriander with a lemon! The most often used combination is Nyama Choma with Kachumbari and boiled rice.

 3. Githeri

If you crave a vegetarian protein-packed meal, Githeri might become your Kenyan favorite. It is more like bean salads and was discovered by the Kikuyu tribe of Kenya. It is made of boiled beans, corn kernels and seasoned with fresh vegetables. Most usually, freshly cut onions, tomatoes, and coriander complement the dish.

4. Mandazi

When we’re talking about Kenyan cuisine, it wouldn’t be justified to go without a sweet treat. Mandazi is the Kenyan version of Doughnut. This sugar-coated savory is seasoned with flavors of cardamom, coconut milk, and icing sugar. For Kenyan, Mandazi is typically eaten as a nutritious breakfast often served with mango mousse. You can eat it as a dessert as well. 

Suggested Read: Things to Do in Kenya

Final Words 

Kenya is a culturally enriched destination with the remarkable hospitality of the natives. Plan your vacations to get the authentic safari experience of this East African country. Discover wildlife, beaches, museums, old ruins, and history in the perfect way! Try local dishes and remember Kenyan tastes forever!

Don’t forget first to obtain our e-Visa to Kenya at least 72 business hours before your planned journey!

Rekha Jain

I have been travelling across India for a long time and I am using this blog to share my experiences with you so that you can see the tremendous beauty which India has to offer.
Thrillophilia Blog

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