Part of our Kenya guide.
This page covers three distinct destinations in Kenya: Naivasha, Nakuru, and Malindi. Each offers a different experience, from lake safaris to coastal exploration.
Related travel guides: Travel Stories In Kenya, The Top 10 Best Beaches In Kenya, Which Countries Border Kenya?, How To Get To Diani Beach, Kenya, and 10 Most Beautiful Waterfalls In Kenya.
15 Best Things To Do In Naivasha, Kenya
Lake Naivasha and Mount Longonot anchor this town in the Great Rift Valley. Activities include wildlife safaris around the lake, hiking up the volcano, and boat rides to see hippos. The area also supports birdwatching, cycling through Hell’s Gate National Park, and visits to nearby flower farms. Crescent Island, a land bridge accessible on foot, offers game viewing without a vehicle. For a longer trek, climb Mount Longonot’s rim for views of the Rift Valley floor. Fishing, horseback riding, and camping at designated sites round out the outdoor options. The lake’s freshwater ecosystem attracts both resident and migratory birds year-round.
10 Best Things To Do In Nakuru, Kenya
Lake Nakuru National Park is the primary draw, known for its flamingo populations and the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe. The park’s alkaline lake shifts in size and color with rainfall. Game drives reveal baboons, lions, leopards, and buffalo. The Makalia Falls, within the park, flow during rainy seasons. Outside the park, Nakuru town offers markets and historical landmarks like Lord Egerton Castle. The Menengai Crater, a dormant volcano, provides hiking trails and panoramic views. Birders can spot over 400 species recorded in the area. The park’s entrance fee varies by residency status, and self-drive safaris are permitted on designated roads.
Hidden Gems And Must-See Spots In Malindi, Kenya
Malindi sits on Kenya’s coast north of Mombasa. The Malindi Marine National Park protects coral reefs and sea turtles; snorkeling and glass-bottom boat trips are common. The historic Gede Ruins, a 15th-century Swahili settlement, lie inland. Pristine beaches such as Malindi Beach and nearby Watamu offer swimming and dhow sailing. Local cuisine features fresh seafood and Swahili dishes. The town’s mix of Portuguese, Arab, and African heritage appears in its architecture and markets. For those planning coastal travel, it is worth considering how to get to Diani beach, Kenya, as it is a similar beach destination further south. Vasco da Gama’s pillar, a coral pillar erected in 1498, marks the town’s early trade history. The Arabuko Sokoke Forest, nearby, hosts endemic bird species and the golden-rumped elephant shrew.
