6 things to do in Kenya that aren't safari

When people think of a holiday in Kenya and many other African countries, the first thing that usually jumps to mind is a wildlife safari.

However, by narrowing their focus down solely to this experience, many people miss out on the depth and beauty of this place, and only glean a small picture of the country and culture.

Others may look for cultural activities to add to their itinerary, but be unsure where to start, or which experiences are authentic and really worth doing. Kenya, while at the forefront of wildlife protection and home to world-class safari, has much more to offer than meets the eye.

Explore Nairobi’s art scene

African art is well-known for its vibrant colours and use of traditional patterns, and Kenyan art is no exception. That being said, a diverse range of art can be found here.

In particular, Nairobi is home to a vibrant art scene that captures the country’s cultural diversity.

The second floor of the Nairobi National Museum, which includes exhibits of contemporary Kenyan art alongside historical artifacts, and the Nairobi Gallery, are must-visits to gain an overall picture of Kenya’s artistic heritage.

Modern art is also plentiful, with galleries such as Circle Art Gallery and Red Hill Art Gallery showcasing contemporary Kenyan and East African works.

Art can even be enjoyed in outdoor spaces such as at Kuona Artists Collective, Centre for the Visual Arts – with so much on offer, Kenyan art is definitely something you don’t want to miss out on, especially if you’re already passing through the capital.

Take a tea or coffee plantation tour

Kenya is one of the world’s leading exporters of tea and coffee, and a visit to a plantation provides a closer look at these industries. A number of such plantations offer guided tours which, of course, include tasting experiences.

At Kiambethu Tea Farm, near Limuru, learn about tea production, stroll through scenic fields, and sample fresh tea while admiring Ngong Hills in the distance.

Near Nairobi, the renowned Fairview Coffee Estate provides similar experiences for coffee, taking visitors through the journey from bean to cup.

These tours are an ideal day trip not just for beverage lovers, but for anyone looking for an escape into the countryside and insight into Kenyan farmers’ way of life. Don’t forget to book!

Engage in cultural experiences

Kenya is home to 42 tribes and 68 languages; there is so much culture to learn about and experience.

Visiting a village of the iconic Maasai, whose spear and shield mark the Kenyan flag, is a popular choice – and we recommend hiring an experienced local guide.

In Nairobi, the Bomas of Kenya offers daily performances showcasing traditional music, dance and attire from multiple Kenyan ethnic groups.

Cultural centres like Kazuri Beads in Nairobi offer workshops and tours that allow you to make your own beads while supporting local artisans, and typically don’t need a booking.

You can also do tours of low-income neighbourhoods like Kibera, but make sure to go through grassroots organisations, bring money to tip your guide and buy souvenirs, and remember that these areas are people's homes.

Whichever experiences you choose, learning about Kenya’s diverse people and their lives is sure to enrich your travel experience.

Discover Kakamega Forest

Located in the western part of the country, Kakamega Forest Park is the last remnant of ancient Guineo-Congolian rainforest in Kenya. Coincidingly, it is home to unique flora and fauna not found elsewhere in the country.

Located about half an hour out of Kakamega town, the forest trails are brimming with rare bird species, butterflies, colobus monkeys and other primates. Hiring a guide is recommended, as they’ll teach you all about the fascinating usage of the plants here in traditional Indigenous medicine.

For a more immersive experience, book a cabin in the middle of the forest and wake up to the cacophony of bird sounds at sunrise.

Relax on the Swahili Coast

Swahili, one of Kenya’s national languages alongside English, is a mix of local and Arabic languages, and it was Kenya’s coastline where the Arabs arrived and this unique language and culture began to develop.

Here, instead of savannah, you’ll find sandy white beaches, coral reefs and historic Swahili towns. On the outskirts, admire swathes of baobab, one of world’s widest-diameter trees.

Mombasa is the largest settlement on the coast, and a good starting point for learning about Swahili culture and history.

Watamu and Malindi are excellent spots for diving and snorkelling, or simply relaxing by the sea. Watamu Marine National Park is particularly popular for its clear waters filled with colourful fish and coral gardens.

For a unique cultural experience, Lamu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is perfect for exploring traditional Swahili architecture and local markets.

Hike a mountain

While neighbouring Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro often steals the spotlight for hiking in Africa, Kenya is home to Africa’s second-highest peak, Mount Kenya, and a plethora of other mountains perfect for seasoned hikers and casual adventurers alike.

With Kilimanjaro’s popularity in mind, Mt Kenya offers a less-crowded alternative. To hike here, book a multi-day guided trek with agencies like GoToMountKenya or High Peak Safari.

For beginner-friendly hikes, try Ngong Hills and Mount Longonot, both scenic spots close to Nairobi.

Note that for foreign visitors, even shorter hikes like these now require guides to ensure safety. However, other than Mt Kenya, which requires more expertise and heavier gear, guide prices are quite reasonable at around 20-30 USD, and many can be hired directly from Kenya Wildlife Service upon arrival.

Hikes offer a rewarding way to see the lesser known of Kenya’s landscapes.

Hero image 📸 Sergey Pesterev