7 Tips to Make the Most of Your Kenyan Holiday Experience

A visit to Kenya is always a spectacular and memorable one. Many have described it as a bucket list destination – so be sure to make the most of your Kenyan holiday experience with these great tips.

#1 Ditch the Itinerary

There’s this special sense of relaxation and going with the flow, which you will unmistakably feel once you enter Kenya. That’s why we recommend ditching the itinerary. Once Kenya welcomes you in all of its African glory, no doubt, it will reveal its splendour and take you on an unexpected journey. Be open. Talk to the locals and make new friends. The locals really know the best places and the best times to go.

#2 Beach Hunt like a Local

The soft white sands, the inviting turquoise waters, the magical underwater playground – these are only some of the highlights of Kenya’s pristine beaches. Each beach has its own rhythm, its own vibe that draws you in and leaves you feeling pleased with the world. Some beaches, such as Diani and Lamu, are ideal for the true romantics – think long, romantic strolls and fairy-tale sunsets. Others, such as Mombasa and Watamu are great for families and offer many above and underwater experiences. If you’re looking for a spot to relax, soak in the sun, and reminisce about yesteryear, Malindi beach is your best choice. If you’re looking for romance, fun, relaxation or adventure – Kilifi has it all. This secluded spot, just North of Mombasa, is a treasured local favourite and combines with Kilifi Creek for the most special experience.

#3 The Fruit in Kenya is Beyond Delicious

There is no doubt that Kenya is a tropical paradise. The ideal climate and environment provides for the juiciest, tastiest and most succulent fruit that you will ever enjoy. Ditch the morning omelette for a plate of tangy granadillas, sweet mangos and luscious pineapples. There is no better way to start the day.

#4 Explore the Rich History

The town of Mombasa is renowned for its rich cultural history. African, Persian, Arabian, Portuguese and British influences transformed this beautiful destination into what it is today. Fort Jesus, the famous elephant tusks, Mombasa old town with its rich architectural background and fascinating buildings, and the Hindu temples will leave you awestruck and enriched. The nearby towns and villages also speak to the history, and a trip to the Gede Ruins in Watamu, the lost city of Jumbo La Mtwapa, or the Sacred Mijikenda Kaya Forests promises to be a memorable adventure.

#5 Maneno Machache ya Lugha ya Swahili (A Few Handy Swahili Phrases)

The origins of Swahili date back thousands of years, and developed into the language known today with the arrival of Persian and Arabian settlers in East Africa. Here are a few helpful phrases – the Kenyan people are inherently warm and hospitable, and there is something special about saying ‘thank you’ in their language.

• Thank you = Asante
• Please = tafadhali
• Hello = jumbo
• Excuse me = samahani
• Friend = rafiki
• What’s up? = mambo
• Cool = poa
• Sorry = pole
• No worries = hakuna matata
• Welcome – Karibu

#6 Know Your Camera

Have you ever used the timer? Can you apply filters for those very dramatic moments that you want to cement and remember forever? Do you know how to take a panoramic view photo? Should you use your mobile device or your digital camera? Imagine finding yourself in the perfect moment, and that exact moment fleeting by, while you’re looking at your camera. Do a little bit of playing around before your trip. Take a couple different types of photos of your city, of the people of the city, the clear blue skies, and even a few critters – this will help you train your eye and get used to your gadget, so that you can capture the perfect moment, perfectly, when the time comes.

#7 Let the Kenyan Vibe Envelop You

Don’t be a tourist. Soak in the Kenyan vibes, relish in it, enjoy it for as much, and as long as you can. This is probably the #1 thing that you will remember and miss about Kenya once you return back home. Kenya is multi-ethnic, and the culture invites you to participate, to have fun, and to be appreciative of the beauty Kenya is blessed with. Don’t be an outsider – partake, speak the language, taste the local delicacies, ride the tuk tuks, visit the villages and heed the locals’ travel advice.

There you have it! Be sure to have an absolute blast on your next visit to Kenya, and if you have any great tips to share be sure to let us know in the comments below.