Kenya and Beyond: A Complete Guide to Safari, Beach, Mountain and International Destinations
Kenya’s best-known places to visit are the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo, Samburu and Mount Kenya for safari and adventure, and Diani, Watamu, Malindi and Lamu for beaches and Swahili culture. Beyond Kenya, the Serengeti and Zanzibar in Tanzania, the gorilla forests of Uganda and Rwanda and international escapes such as Cape Town, Dubai and the Maldives widen the choice. This guide covers 149 destinations across bush, beach, mountains, culture and adventure, from the famous to the hidden.
Quick answer: where to go by interest
- Big Five and migration: Maasai Mara (Kenya), Serengeti (Tanzania)
- Elephants and Kilimanjaro views: Amboseli, Tarangire
- Quiet, less-visited safari: Meru, Mwea, Ruma, Ruaha
- Private conservancies: Ol Pejeta, Lewa, Naboisho, Mara North
- Beaches and Swahili culture: Diani, Watamu, Lamu, Zanzibar
- Hiking and climbing: Mount Kenya, Hell’s Gate, Mount Longonot, Kilimanjaro
- Gorilla trekking: Bwindi and Mgahinga (Uganda), Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)
Every section below gives a short description of each destination. Where YourConcern Tours has a dedicated page, you will find a link to it. Request a free quote when you are ready to plan.
Kenya safari destinations
Maasai Mara National Reserve
The Ultimate African Safari
Kenya's most celebrated safari destination, renowned for abundant wildlife, Big Five encounters, dramatic predator action and the annual wildebeest migration. Explore Maasai Mara National Reserve →
Amboseli National Park
Elephants Beneath Kilimanjaro
Famous for its spectacular elephant herds and iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro. An outstanding destination for wildlife photography and classic safari experiences. Explore Amboseli National Park →
Tsavo East National Park
The Wild Frontier
A vast, rugged wilderness famous for red-earth landscapes, elephants, lions and enormous open spaces. Ideal for travellers seeking a more expansive safari experience. Explore Tsavo East National Park →
Tsavo West National Park
Volcanic Landscapes & Wildlife
A dramatic combination of wildlife, volcanic scenery, lava flows, springs, hills and forests, including the famous Mzima Springs. Explore Tsavo West National Park →
Samburu National Reserve
Wildlife of Northern Kenya
A spectacular semi-arid wilderness along the Ewaso Ng'iro River, known for distinctive northern species, dramatic landscapes and Samburu culture. Explore Samburu National Reserve →
Lake Nakuru National Park
Rhinos & Rift Valley Scenery
A scenic park renowned for rhino conservation, diverse wildlife, birdlife and the dramatic landscapes surrounding Lake Nakuru. Explore Lake Nakuru National Park →
Nairobi National Park
Wildlife Beside the City
One of Kenya's most unusual safari experiences: open wildlife habitat immediately outside Nairobi. KWS describes it as the world's only wildlife capital. KWS Explore Nairobi National Park →
Meru National Park
Untamed Kenya
A beautiful and relatively less crowded wilderness of rivers, woodland and savannah, offering excellent wildlife viewing and a genuine sense of remoteness. Explore Meru National Park →
Aberdare National Park
Misty Mountains & Forests
A high-altitude landscape of forests, waterfalls, moorlands and mountain wildlife, offering a completely different safari atmosphere. Explore Aberdare National Park →
Kenya's hidden and lesser-known wilderness
Mwea National Reserve
An Undiscovered Oasis
A peaceful wilderness shaped by the Tana and Thiba rivers and nearby reservoirs. It offers wildlife, birdwatching, nature experiences and a quieter safari environment. KWS Explore Mwea National Reserve →
Marsabit National Park
The Green Oasis of Northern Kenya
An extraordinary contrast within the northern desert, featuring forests, volcanic landscapes, wildlife and the scenic Lake Paradise. Explore Marsabit National Park →
Sibiloi National Park
The Cradle of Humankind
On the shores of Lake Turkana, Sibiloi combines spectacular desert scenery with globally important archaeological and fossil sites. Explore Sibiloi National Park →
Malka Mari National Park
Kenya's Remote Frontier
A truly off-the-beaten-path destination in northern Kenya, characterised by arid landscapes and the Daua River ecosystem. Explore Malka Mari National Park →
Nasolot National Reserve
Northern Kenya Untamed
A remote wilderness surrounding Nasolot Hill, offering rugged landscapes, wildlife and an authentic northern Kenya experience. Explore Nasolot National Reserve →
Ruma National Park
Kenya's Last Roan Antelope Sanctuary
A beautiful western Kenya park known for the rare roan antelope, rolling landscapes and relatively low visitor numbers. Explore Ruma National Park →
Saiwa Swamp National Park
Kenya's Smallest National Park
A peaceful wetland and forest ecosystem offering nature trails, birdwatching, primates and the rare sitatunga antelope. Explore Saiwa Swamp National Park →
Kakamega Forest
Kenya's Rainforest Treasure
A remarkable tropical forest rich in birds, butterflies, primates, indigenous trees and guided nature experiences. Explore Kakamega Forest →
Mt. Elgon National Park
Caves, Forests & Mountains
A spectacular mountain ecosystem on Kenya's western border featuring forests, waterfalls, caves, hiking routes and dramatic highland scenery. Explore Mt. Elgon National Park →
Chyulu Hills National Park
The Green Hills of Kenya
Volcanic hills between Amboseli and Tsavo, offering hiking, wildlife, dramatic scenery and extraordinary views across southern Kenya. Explore Chyulu Hills National Park →
Oldonyo Sabuk National Park
Mountain Views Near Nairobi
A compact mountain destination offering hiking, panoramic views and wildlife within easy reach of Nairobi. Explore Oldonyo Sabuk National Park →
Hell's Gate National Park
Adventure in the Rift Valley
One of Kenya's best destinations for active travellers, with dramatic cliffs, cycling, hiking, rock climbing and geothermal landscapes. Explore Hell's Gate National Park →
Mount Longonot National Park
Climb a Volcanic Crater
A popular Rift Valley hiking destination centred around an extinct stratovolcano and its spectacular crater rim. Explore Mount Longonot National Park →
Lake Elementaita
Flamingos & Scenic Escapes
A beautiful Rift Valley soda lake surrounded by escarpments, wildlife habitats and birdlife. Explore Lake Elementaita →
Lake Bogoria
Hot Springs & Flamingos
A dramatic Rift Valley destination known for geothermal activity, hot springs and spectacular birdlife. Explore Lake Bogoria →
Lake Baringo
Island, Bird & Cultural Adventures
A freshwater Rift Valley lake offering boat trips, birdwatching, fishing, island excursions and cultural encounters. Explore Lake Baringo →
Lake Turkana
The Jade Sea
A remote northern adventure featuring volcanic landscapes, desert scenery, distinctive cultures and one of Kenya's most extraordinary environments. Explore Lake Turkana →
Central Island National Park
Volcanoes in Lake Turkana
A remote volcanic island in Lake Turkana, known for its unusual landscape and volcanic craters. Explore Central Island National Park →
South Island National Park
Remote Island Wilderness
A remote Lake Turkana destination combining volcanic scenery, birdlife and an exceptional sense of isolation. Explore South Island National Park →
Ndere Island National Park
Island Wilderness on Lake Victoria
A quiet island destination offering wildlife, birdwatching, lake scenery and nature experiences. Explore Ndere Island National Park →
Kora National Park
The Tana River Wilderness
A remote wilderness of rugged terrain, riverine landscapes and historical links to conservationist George Adamson. Explore Kora National Park →
KWS currently classifies destinations across southern, Tsavo, coast, mountain, eastern, northern, western and central Rift conservation areas, demonstrating just how geographically diverse Kenya's protected-area network is. KWS
Conservancies and private wilderness
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Conservation Meets Safari
A leading Laikipia conservation destination combining exceptional wildlife viewing with major conservation programmes. Explore Ol Pejeta Conservancy →
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
Wildlife & Conservation
A spectacular northern Kenya conservancy famous for rhino conservation, wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Explore Lewa Wildlife Conservancy →
Laikipia Conservancies
The New Face of Kenyan Safari
A collection of private and community conservancies offering intimate wildlife encounters, walking safaris, horseback experiences and conservation-focused tourism. Explore Laikipia Conservancies →
Ol Kinyei Conservancy
Exclusive Maasai Mara Wilderness
A private conservancy offering exceptional wildlife viewing, fewer vehicles and a more intimate safari environment. Explore Ol Kinyei Conservancy →
Naboisho Conservancy
Wildlife Without the Crowds
A renowned Mara conservancy offering excellent predator sightings, walking safaris, night experiences and expansive wilderness. Explore Naboisho Conservancy →
Mara North Conservancy
The Greater Mara Wilderness
A community conservation landscape bordering the Maasai Mara, combining wildlife conservation with responsible tourism and community benefits. Explore Mara North Conservancy →
Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
Mountains Above the Tsavo Plains
A scenic wildlife area combining dramatic mountains, open plains and proximity to the Tsavo ecosystem. Explore Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary →
Mountains, highlands and adventure
Mount Kenya
Africa's Second-Highest Mountain
A premier trekking and mountaineering destination offering glaciers, alpine landscapes, forests and challenging summit routes. Explore Mount Kenya →
Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania)
The Roof of Africa
Africa's highest mountain and one of the world's most iconic trekking destinations. Explore Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania) →
Ngong Hills
Hiking Above Nairobi
A popular highland escape offering panoramic views, hiking trails and spectacular scenery. Explore Ngong Hills →
Aberdare Highlands
Forests, Waterfalls & Moorlands
A cool highland escape ideal for hiking, nature, waterfalls and wildlife. Explore Aberdare Highlands →
Cherangany Hills
Kenya's Highland Wilderness
A lesser-known mountain landscape offering forests, ridges, farming communities and scenic hiking opportunities. Explore Cherangany Hills →
Loita Hills
Sacred Maasai Landscapes
A culturally significant wilderness of forests and rolling hills offering hiking, cultural experiences and an alternative to conventional safari. Explore Loita Hills →
Kenya's coast and beach destinations
Mombasa
Where Swahili Heritage Meets the Ocean
Historic Old Town, Fort Jesus, beaches, marine parks, Swahili culture and vibrant coastal life. Explore Mombasa →
Diani Beach
Kenya's Tropical Paradise
White sands, turquoise waters, luxury resorts, water sports and some of the country's finest beach experiences. Explore Diani Beach →
Malindi
History, Beaches & Marine Life
A historic coastal town combining Swahili culture, beaches, marine experiences and access to Watamu and surrounding attractions. Explore Malindi →
Watamu
Marine Beauty & Coastal Adventure
Known for pristine beaches, coral reefs, marine conservation, kayaking, dhow experiences and spectacular coastal scenery. Explore Watamu →
Lamu
The Soul of Swahili Coast
A UNESCO World Heritage destination famous for its historic architecture, dhow culture, narrow streets, beaches and centuries-old Swahili heritage. Explore Lamu →
Kilifi
The Quiet Coastal Escape
A beautiful destination centred around Kilifi Creek, beaches, water activities, dhow experiences and relaxed coastal living. Explore Kilifi →
Coastal hidden gems
Mida Creek
Mangrove Forests & Coastal Wildlife
A spectacular tidal creek offering kayaking, canoeing, birdwatching, mangrove walks and sunset experiences. Explore Mida Creek →
Marafa (Hell's Kitchen)
Kenya's Little Grand Canyon
Dramatic sandstone formations and deep coloured cliffs create one of the coast's most unusual natural attractions. Explore Marafa (Hell's Kitchen) →
Shimba Hills
The Coastal Highlands
A lush reserve close to Mombasa and Diani, famous for forest, waterfalls, scenic viewpoints and the rare sable antelope. Explore Shimba Hills →
Shimoni
Gateway to the Marine South Coast
A historic coastal settlement and launch point for marine excursions towards Kisite-Mpunguti. Explore Shimoni →
Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park
Coral Reefs & Ocean Wildlife
One of Kenya's premier marine experiences, offering clear waters, coral reefs, snorkelling, diving, dolphins and island excursions. Explore Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park →
Wasini Island
Island Culture & Ocean Adventures
A small island near the Tanzanian border offering seafood, Swahili culture, marine excursions and access to Kisite waters. Explore Wasini Island →
Kongo River
River Meets Ocean
A beautiful coastal landscape near Diani where the river, mangroves, beach and Indian Ocean come together. Explore Kongo River →
Tiwi Beach
Quiet Indian Ocean Beauty
A more tranquil alternative to busy coastal resorts, ideal for travellers looking for beaches and relaxation. Explore Tiwi Beach →
Funzi Island
Mangroves & Island Life
A remote southern-coast experience involving mangrove channels, boat excursions, fishing communities and coastal exploration. Explore Funzi Island →
Chale Island
Private Island Escape
A beautiful island off Kenya's southern coast offering secluded beaches, marine experiences and premium accommodation. Explore Chale Island →
Kiunga
Remote Lamu Archipelago
A northern coastal destination of islands, mangroves, coral reefs and marine ecosystems. Explore Kiunga →
Tana River Delta
Wetlands & Wildlife
A vast coastal wetland ecosystem offering birdwatching, boating, fishing and opportunities for nature-based exploration. Explore Tana River Delta →
KWS recognizes marine destinations including Kisite-Mpunguti, Watamu, Mombasa, Malindi, Kiunga and Diani-Chale, reinforcing the depth of Kenya's coastal tourism product. KWS
Tanzania: safari and beach
Serengeti National Park
The Endless Plains
One of Africa's greatest wildlife destinations and a key stage of the annual wildebeest migration. Explore Serengeti National Park →
Ngorongoro Crater
Africa's Natural Wildlife Amphitheatre
A spectacular volcanic caldera supporting an extraordinary concentration of wildlife. Explore Ngorongoro Crater →
Tarangire National Park
Elephants & Giant Baobabs
Known for impressive elephant populations, baobab landscapes and excellent northern Tanzania safari experiences. Explore Tarangire National Park →
Lake Manyara National Park
Forest, Flamingos & Wildlife
A diverse park featuring lake landscapes, forests, birdlife and the possibility of seeing tree-climbing lions. Explore Lake Manyara National Park →
Ruaha National Park
Remote Tanzania
A vast and comparatively wild southern Tanzania destination with elephants, predators and dramatic landscapes. Explore Ruaha National Park →
Nyerere National Park
River, Wildlife & Wilderness
One of Africa's largest protected areas, offering game drives, river experiences and diverse wildlife. Explore Nyerere National Park →
Mikumi National Park
Accessible Safari Country
A convenient wildlife destination from Dar es Salaam, offering open plains and classic safari experiences. Explore Mikumi National Park →
Arusha National Park
Mountains, Lakes & Wildlife
A diverse park near Arusha featuring forests, lakes, Mount Meru and wildlife. Explore Arusha National Park →
Moshi
Gateway to Kilimanjaro
The ideal base for Mount Kilimanjaro adventures, waterfalls, coffee tours and northern Tanzania experiences. Explore Moshi →
Zanzibar
Spice Islands & Tropical Beaches
White-sand beaches, Stone Town, spice farms, marine adventures and rich Swahili heritage. Explore Zanzibar →
Pemba Island
Zanzibar's Quieter Sister
A lush island famous for diving, marine life, spices and secluded coastal experiences. Explore Pemba Island →
Mafia Island
Tanzania's Marine Paradise
A quieter Indian Ocean destination renowned for coral reefs, marine life and island experiences. Explore Mafia Island →
Tanzania's tourism board identifies the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire as the country's signature northern safari circuit, while also highlighting destinations such as Ruaha and Mikumi. Tanzania Tourism
Uganda: gorilla trekking, primates and the Nile
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
The Gorilla Experience
One of Africa's premier destinations for mountain gorilla trekking in an ancient rainforest. Explore Bwindi Impenetrable National Park →
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Gorillas & Volcanoes
A dramatic volcanic landscape offering gorilla trekking and golden monkey experiences. Explore Mgahinga Gorilla National Park →
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Classic Ugandan Safari
Savannah, crater lakes, elephants, lions, hippos and boat safaris combine to create a remarkably diverse destination. Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park →
Murchison Falls National Park
The Nile Meets the Wild
Home to the spectacular Murchison Falls, alongside abundant wildlife and Nile boat experiences. Explore Murchison Falls National Park →
Kibale National Park
The Primate Capital
One of Africa's best destinations for chimpanzee tracking and primate encounters. Explore Kibale National Park →
Jinja
Source of Adventure
Famous for the Nile, white-water rafting, kayaking and adventure tourism. Explore Jinja →
Lake Bunyonyi
The Lake of a Thousand Islands
A scenic highland lake surrounded by terraced hills and small islands. Explore Lake Bunyonyi →
Rwanda: gorillas, savannah and rainforest
Volcanoes National Park
Gorillas in the Mist
A spectacular volcanic landscape and one of Africa's most renowned gorilla trekking destinations. Explore Volcanoes National Park →
Akagera National Park
Rwanda's Savannah
A beautiful conservation success story offering classic game drives, wetlands, lakes and diverse wildlife. Explore Akagera National Park →
Nyungwe Forest
Ancient Rainforest
A remarkable montane rainforest famous for chimpanzee tracking, primates, birds and canopy experiences. Explore Nyungwe Forest →
Kigali
Clean, Modern & Cultural
Rwanda's vibrant capital offers museums, culture, cuisine, art and easy access to the country's major attractions. Explore Kigali →
International destinations beyond East Africa
YourConcern Tours can also help plan holidays beyond Africa. Popular choices include:
South Africa
- Cape Town: Table Mountain, coastline, culture and wine country.
- Kruger National Park: Big Five safari and extensive wilderness.
- Johannesburg: History, culture and gateway to South African adventures.
- Garden Route: Scenic coastline, forests and outdoor adventure.
- Victoria Falls: One of Africa's greatest natural spectacles, accessible through Zambia/Zimbabwe.
Botswana
- Okavango Delta: Waterways, wildlife and extraordinary wilderness.
- Chobe National Park: Famous for elephants and river safaris.
- Moremi Game Reserve: Exceptional wildlife in the Okavango ecosystem.
Namibia
- Sossusvlei: Iconic red dunes and desert landscapes.
- Etosha National Park: Wildlife around a vast salt pan.
- Swakopmund: Coastal adventure surrounded by desert.
- Skeleton Coast: Remote coastline and dramatic desert scenery.
Egypt
- Cairo: History, museums and the Nile.
- Giza: The Great Pyramids and Sphinx.
- Luxor: Temples, tombs and ancient Egyptian heritage.
- Red Sea: Diving, beaches and marine adventures.
United Arab Emirates
Plan a trip to United Arab Emirates →
- Dubai: Luxury, shopping, architecture and desert adventures.
- Abu Dhabi: Culture, beaches and world-class attractions.
- Ras Al Khaimah: Mountains, desert and adventure tourism.
Seychelles
- Mahé: Beaches, mountains and Creole culture.
- Praslin: Tropical landscapes and exceptional beaches.
- La Digue: Granite formations, cycling and iconic beaches.
Mauritius
- Grand Baie: Beaches, restaurants and nightlife.
- Le Morne: Mountain, beach and spectacular scenery.
- Black River Gorges: Forest, hiking and waterfalls.
Maldives
- Malé: Gateway to the Maldives.
- Private Island Resorts: Luxury, diving, snorkelling and romantic escapes.
Morocco
- Marrakech: Medina, souks, palaces and Moroccan culture.
- Sahara Desert: Desert camps, dunes and camel experiences.
- Chefchaouen: Famous blue-painted mountain town.
- Fes: Historic medina and cultural heritage.
Thailand
- Bangkok: Culture, temples and vibrant city life.
- Phuket: Beaches and island excursions.
- Krabi: Limestone cliffs, beaches and islands.
- Chiang Mai: Mountains, temples and northern Thai culture.
Indonesia
- Bali: Beaches, culture and wellness.
- Komodo: Islands, marine life and Komodo dragons.
- Ubud: Art, rice terraces and Balinese culture.
Turkey
- Istanbul: Where Europe and Asia meet.
- Cappadocia: Extraordinary rock formations and hot-air-balloon experiences.
- Antalya: Mediterranean beaches and historic sites.
France
- Paris: Art, architecture, cuisine and iconic landmarks.
- French Riviera: Mediterranean luxury and coastal escapes.
Italy
- Rome: Ancient history and iconic architecture.
- Venice: Canals, islands and historic culture.
- Amalfi Coast: Dramatic cliffs and Mediterranean scenery.
Greece
- Athens: Ancient history and Mediterranean culture.
- Santorini: Volcanic landscapes, sunsets and luxury escapes.
- Crete: Beaches, mountains and history.
Spain
- Barcelona: Architecture, culture and Mediterranean lifestyle.
- Madrid: Art, history and Spanish culture.
- Canary Islands: Beaches, volcanic landscapes and outdoor adventure.
Australia
- Sydney: Harbour, beaches and iconic architecture.
- Great Barrier Reef: World-famous marine ecosystem.
- Gold Coast: Beaches, entertainment and adventure.
United States
Plan a trip to United States →
- New York City: Global culture, landmarks and entertainment.
- Miami: Beaches, nightlife and tropical atmosphere.
- Orlando: Family entertainment and theme parks.
- Grand Canyon: One of the world's great natural landscapes.
- Hawaii: Volcanoes, beaches and island adventure.
Brazil
- Rio de Janeiro: Beaches, mountains and iconic city landscapes.
- Amazon: Rainforest, rivers and extraordinary biodiversity.
Japan
- Tokyo: Technology, culture and modern Japanese life.
- Kyoto: Temples, gardens and traditional Japan.
- Mount Fuji: Japan's iconic mountain and surrounding landscapes.
Frequently asked questions about Kenya and beyond
What are the best places to visit in Kenya?
The Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo East and West, Samburu, Lake Nakuru and Nairobi National Park lead the safari list, Mount Kenya and Hell's Gate lead for adventure, and Diani, Watamu, Malindi, Lamu and Kilifi lead the coast. Lesser-known highlights include Meru, Ruma, Kakamega Forest and Lake Turkana.
What are the best hidden gems in Kenya?
Mwea National Reserve, Marsabit, Sibiloi on Lake Turkana, Ruma National Park, Saiwa Swamp, Kakamega Forest, Mt. Elgon, the Chyulu Hills and Kora offer wildlife and landscapes away from the main safari circuit.
Which Kenyan conservancies are best for a private safari?
Ol Pejeta, Lewa and the wider Laikipia conservancies in the north, and Ol Kinyei, Naboisho and Mara North next to the Maasai Mara, offer fewer vehicles and more intimate wildlife viewing, with walking safaris and night experiences at some.
What are the best beaches and coastal places in Kenya?
Diani, Watamu, Malindi, Lamu, Kilifi and Mombasa are the classics. For quieter or more unusual stays, consider Tiwi Beach, Mida Creek, Wasini Island, Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park, Funzi Island and Chale Island.
Can I combine Kenya with Tanzania, Uganda or Rwanda?
Yes. The Maasai Mara links naturally with the Serengeti for the wildebeest migration, Amboseli sits opposite Mount Kilimanjaro, and Uganda and Rwanda are known for gorilla trekking in Bwindi, Mgahinga and Volcanoes National Park. YourConcern Tours can plan multi-country itineraries.
Where can I see gorillas?
Mountain gorilla trekking is available in Uganda at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and in Rwanda at Volcanoes National Park.
Does YourConcern Tours arrange trips outside Africa?
Yes. Besides Kenya and East Africa, the team can help plan trips to destinations such as Dubai, Zanzibar, the Maldives, Thailand, Bali, Turkey, Europe, the United States and Japan.
From hidden gems to iconic destinations
Kenya is not just the Maasai Mara, Africa is not just safari, and travel is about discovering what makes each place different. YourConcern Tours connects travellers with iconic wildlife destinations, undiscovered wilderness, tropical beaches, mountains, islands, cultural experiences and international adventures. Your journey. Your destination. Your concern.