5 Unique Things to Do in Kenya

While Kenya is a land of vibrant landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling wildlife encounters it is also a destination that offers some truly unique, offbeat, and meaningful experiences. Although the country is known for its game drives in open vehicles across the savannah, places like the country’s capital Nairobi, Nanyuki and Maasai Mara among others can take you on a whole other adventure.

Here are five extraordinary things to experience in Kenya that go beyond the popular safari drives.

Walk Among Wildlife in Hell's Gate National Park

Did you watch Disney’s The Lion King as a kid and wanted to re-create the classic scene of The Circle of Life? Then go no further than Hell's Gate National Park. I know it sounds intimidating but that is due to the narrow space, tall rock formations and geothermal activity within the park and therefore two explorers Gustav Fischer and Joseph Thomson had decided that it was an apt name for it.

But not to worry, because it is a safe location as it is away from other large predators and it is also recommended to go on guided tours within the park. It is located near Lake Naivasha and it is one of the few places where visitors can hike or cycle past zebras, giraffes, warthogs, and antelopes.

Adopt an Elephant at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

If you consider yourself to be a cat or dog parent then this could be the highlight of your trip.

At David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi, baby elephants that have been unfortunately orphaned are rescued and rehabilitated. Here you get the chance to adopt an elephant and receive updates on its journey back into the wild in exchange for a small donation. You can also meet the baby elephants during their daily mud bath and feeding sessions and be a proud parent who supports their conservation.

Trek up the slopes of Mount Kenya

Mount Kenya offers an incredible hiking experience and is also less crowded compared to its famous counterpart Mount Kilimanjaro. It is located in Nanyuki and is also Africa's second-highest peak. Mount Kenya is surrounded by glacial lakes, bamboo forests, and unique plant species like giant lobelias (think huge cactus plants!).

It does not matter what level of trekking you can currently endure because there are several routes. The more accessible route is called the Sirimon route, however, if you want a slightly challenging but equally peaceful trek then you could try the Chogoria path.

Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Maasai Mara

The Great Migration is like the World Cup but make it a wildlife edition, for it is a spectacular natural event to experience in Kenya. Why? Over 1.5 million wildebeests, along with zebras and gazelles cross from Tanzania’s Serengeti into Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve and they also encounter crocodile-filled rivers and predators in a high-stake journey.

The best time to witness these wild beests is usually between July and October.  It is chaotic and riveting and a must-see for any nature lover.

Experience Kite Surfing on Diani Beach

Known as one of the cleanest beaches on the planet, Diani Beach is located south of Mombasa and its white sands and warm Indian Ocean waters make it the perfect location to relax after the adventure-filled safari trips.

However, if you are looking for more thrill then you can participate in kite surfing at Diani. It is a top destination for this sport because of the steady winds and shallow lagoons that provide the right environment to glide across the waves.

Kenya tests the adventurer in you, from close encounters with the Big Five of Africa or traversing its rugged terrains, this highly sought after destination inspires you to go beyond your comfort zone in the most brilliant ways. If you are not sure how to tackle this fascinating location then you can start here.