7 Places to Visit in Kenya Beyond a Safari

Archeological and paleontological treasures are uncovered in the East African region of Koobi Fora, on the banks of Turkana Lake in the Kenyan Rift Valley.

The fascinating history of the province emerges from Koobi Fora Ridge, where paleontologists have discovered exciting fossils, including the remains of a hominid approximately three million years old.

Many of the fossils on display inside the Koobi Fora Museum reveal the sizes of extinct crocodiles, giraffes, and tortoises that are over four times larger than their contemporary counterparts. Visitors may also relax around the lake, explore ancient history, and witness stellar sunsets over the water.

Things to Experience: Koobi Fora Museum • Lake Turkana • Ancient forests • Rural settlements • Fossil hunting • Wildlife viewing • Bushveld walks • Stargazing

The famous Gedi Ruins are approximately 342 miles from Nairobi, but are easily reached by a quick flight to Malindi, which is less than 30 minutes away from the spectacular historical site.

The complex reveals a once-thriving community on the eastern seaboard that existed from as early as the 11th century, until the start of the 17th century.

The abandoned city opens to a tropical forest in an isolated space where archeologists have discovered beads, coins, pottery, and evidence of rising prosperity through the course of the kingdom’s progression, until its abandonment.

Highlights of Gedi Ruins: Arabuko Sokoke primeval forest • Tree canopy walks • Kipepeo Butterfly Project • Gedi National Monument • Malindi snake park • The Great Mosque • The Small Mosque • The Palace

Nairobi is a gateway to the marvels of Mombasa on the eastern seaboard, with a flight taking approximately an hour.

The city hosts the Portuguese colonial structure of Fort Jesus, which provides a lavish example of Renaissance military design. The architecture demonstrates the amalgamation of European, African, and Middle-Eastern aesthetics, crowned by the expansive panorama of the Port of Mombasa amid the five bastions and imposing walls.

The design of the fortress immerses visitors in nearly five centuries of history, bearing witness to the interchange of cultural values accumulated over time.

Other Attractions in Mombasa: Haller Park • Nyali beach • Mombasa Marine National Park • Old Town • Mamba Village Centre • Nguuni Nature Sanctuary • Bamburi beach • Mama Ngina Drive

Discover rich Swahili culture in the historic town of Lamu. This old town lies on Lamu Island, just off the coast of Kenya in the Indian Ocean, and comes with a history of gold, spice, and slavery.

Lamu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has become popular with visitors fascinated with its former rivalry with Mombasa, a 40-minute flight away and the chosen port off the east African coast until the late 19th century. Buildings in Lamu boast mangrove-poled roofs, creatively designed doors, and other quaint finishes.

Authentic clothing and jewelry collectors would not want to miss exploring this town and owning some Lamu originals.

Top attractions on Lamu Island: Lamu Museum • Lamu Fort • Riyadh Mosque and Islamic Centre • Takwa Ruins

In south-eastern Kenya, located between Amboseli and Tsavo, you will find the Chyulu Hills National Park.

Lying at the edge of the Nyiri Desert, the region is home to the fascinating Leviathan Caves, Africa’s longest lava tube and a truly spectacular site. From January to March and June to September, explore not only the caves, but the western side of the hills, where Maasais own the West Chyulu Game Conservation.

From the higher points of Chyulu park, find breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, with its snow-covered tips standing tall just across the border in Tanzania. The Chyulu Hills were used to represent the Ngong Hills in the movie, Out of Africa.

What to Experience: Leviathan Caves • Horse riding • Mountain biking • Spectacular views • Chance to see a large variety of orchid species

The Aberdare mountains form part of the Great Rift Valley, an area encompassing some of the best places to safari in Kenya, and lie east of the Laikipia plateau.

An isolated volcanic range, they comprise two main peaks, Ol Donyo Lesatima and Kinangop, and the slopes boast ravines that cut deep, accompanied by crystal streams and magnificent waterfalls. The sheer drops are impressive and the area is covered by mist and rain throughout the year, giving nourishment to rich alpine and sub-alpine flora.

The Aberdare National Park offers wonderful game viewing, with a chance to see some favorites, such as elephants, black rhinos, spotted hyenas, the more elusive leopard, serval cats, and giant forest hogs. Bird life is prolific, with over 250 species.

Highlights of Aberdares: Game viewing in Sweeteaters Game Reserve • Spectacular waterfalls • Unrivaled bird watching • Sleep at Treetops or The Ark for a unique experience

Travel west of Nairobi and towards the famous Maasai Mara National Park and you will come across Narok county and Narok town.

Serving as the financial hub for southwest Kenya, the area is also a great example of the Maasai and Kalenjin cultures and tribes. It is rich in resources and offers a few hidden treasures, such as the Mau Forest, the largest water catchment area in Kenya and home to a variety of flora and fauna, as well as numerous birds.

The Maasai speak Maa and the Narok Museum highlights the creativity of local artists through incredible artifacts and art.

Why Visit Narok: Get to know the Maasai in a slightly off-the-beaten-track setting • Visit the wonderful Narok Museum • Convenient stop en route to the Mara Game Reserve

With cultural discoveries, unique adventures, and a rich history begging to be explored, Kenya is captivating and worth considering when planning a visit to this East African country on our featured Kenya safaris.

Our Kenya travel guide has more helpful tips and information on how to craft your ultimate safari adventure.