When most people think about travel in Kenya, what comes to mind is the coastal region and Maasai Mara. This is due to the focus on the two by our tourism ministry. Yet there’s so much that the country has to offer! Keep reading to discover some overlooked yet awesome locations you can visit.
The name means ‘buffalo mountain’ due to the prevalence of buffaloes. Located in Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park, Machakos county, this is one underrated travel destination with lots of treasures. The main activity is hiking the mountain though you can also enjoy bird watching, camping and picnics. To ensure you enjoy the hike go early in the morning. This gives you enough time to cover 9 Km to the summit comfortably before the sun starts blazing in the afternoon.
Are you fascinated by stargazing? Kinangop highlands are one of the best places in Kenya for this. There’s no electricity thus light pollution is minimal. It’s great for birders as well, with a rich variety of forest birds. Hiking the hills can be quite the challenge if you encounter trails overgrown with shrubs, but that’s what makes a hike memorable- right? If planning to camp there, beware that night temperatures go very low so you need warm clothing.
Is located on Mount Eburu, between Lakes Naivasha and Elementaita. It’s a beautiful forest that’s been designated as a conservation area for the endangered Mountain Bongo. So elusive is this creature that it’s only seen by setting up camera traps.
To reach Mount Eburu’s summit you’ll need several hours so go early. Wear warm clothes and carry a raincoat since rain tends to fall unpredictably. Camping rates are incredibly cheap. For Kenyan citizens you’ll pay the entrance fee 200/- (adults), 50/- (children) plus 2000/- per night per guard for security.
Olorgesailie is home to Olorgesailie Museum. This prehistoric site is renowned as the “factory of stone tools” and the only place in the world with the largest number. In addition, the area hosts the highest number of migratory bird species in Kenya. Most people may disregard it since it’s in dry, barren country, but such locations have a wealth of good stuff if you look closely.
Activities include camping in either the available bandas/ bring your own tent, visiting the museum, hiking Mt. Olorgesailie and bird watching.
Just a little further ahead from Olorgesailie is Magadi town. It’s famed for production of soda ash but there’s so much more. Lake Magadi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a habitat for flamingos, the Magadi Plover (found only in Magadi) as well as migratory birds from Europe/ Asia during winter. Temperatures reach up to 40°C so you’ll need lots of water, sunscreen and light clothing.
All photos in this post thanks to Michelle of Klassique Photography.
