From majestic savannas to pristine beaches, this East African gem teems with adventure, culture, and relaxation. Soak up the sun in Mombasa or go on a wild safari to spot lions, elephants, and giraffes in their natural habitats. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of indigenous traditions and customs. This is Kenya, where adventure and culture come together in perfect harmony.

HIGHLIGHTS OF KENYA

WILDLIFE

Kenya is a hub for wildlife and nature enthusiasts and famous for its diverse range of animals including the Big Five—lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos. These majestic creatures can be seen roaming the savannas in their natural habitats. A visit to Kenya offers a chance to witness the raw beauty of the African wilderness and experience the grace and power of these incredible animals.

CUISINE

Kenyan cuisine is diverse and flavorful with dishes that reflect the country's cultural mix of African, Indian, and Arab influences. From traditional dishes that have been passed down for generations, to contemporary creations that showcase the innovative spirit of Kenyan chefs, the food of Kenya is an integral part of the country's cultural heritage. Visitors to Kenya can sample the country's cuisine at local restaurants, street food stalls, and marketplaces, 

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Kenya´s richness in cultural heritage and traditions is reflected in the many unique festivals and events that take place throughout the year. Whether you're interested in music, dance, film, or wildlife, there is a festival or event in Kenya that will appeal to your interests. Nairobi International Film Festival takes place in Nairobi and showcases the best of African and international films. 

PEOPLE

Kenya is home to over 40 ethnic groups, each with its own unique culture, traditions, and way of life. The largest groups are the Kikuyu, Luo, Luhya and Kalenjin. Visitors can go on a cultural tour to learn about these groups and their traditions and to experience the country's rich cultural heritage for themselves.

KITESURFING IN KENYA

Kenya offers excellent conditions for kitesurfing with warm water, steady trade winds, and beautiful landscapes. The water temperature along the coast is usually around 25-30°C, which is warm enough to kitesurf comfortably without a wetsuit. The trade winds, which blow consistently from June to September, provide ideal conditions for kitesurfing and offer a good balance of power and stability.

In terms of infrastructure, Kenya has a well-developed tourist industry, and there are many hotels, resorts, and guesthouses in the area that cater to kitesurfers. There are also several kitesurfing schools and rental shops that offer lessons, rental equipment, and guided tours for those who are new to the sport. The shops and schools are typically located close to the best kitesurfing spots, making it easy to access the water and start kitesurfing.

The landscape of Kenya is beautiful and diverse, with lush tropical forests, pristine beaches, and stunning mountain ranges. The coast of Kenya is dotted with palm trees, and there are several offshore islands that offer a secluded and peaceful kitesurfing experience. 

One of the best places to go kitesurfing in Kenya is Diani Beach, located just south of Mombasa. This beach is known for its crystal-clear water, warm temperatures, and consistent trade winds. 

Whether you're a beginner or an advanced kitesurfer, there is something in Kenya that will appeal to your interests and abilities. With its warm water, steady winds, and beautiful scenery, Kenya is a kitesurfing destination that offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
 

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO KITESURF IN KENYA?

The best time to kitesurf in Kenya is from June to September, which is peak kitesurfing season. During this time, the trade winds are consistent, offering ideal conditions for kitesurfing. The water temperature is also warm, usually around 25-30°C, which is warm enough to kitesurf comfortably without a wetsuit.

In terms of weather, the best time to kitesurf in Kenya is during the dry season which runs from June to October. During this time, the skies are typically clear with little to no rain, making it the perfect time to enjoy the warm sun and trade winds.

That being said, kitesurfing is possible year-round in Kenya, and there are many other factors that can affect the conditions, such as local winds and currents, water temperature, and wave height. For this reason, it's always a good idea to check the local weather and conditions before heading out to kitesurf.

WHAT ARE THE BEST KITESURF SPOTS IN KENYA?

Diani Beach 

The beach is located on the coast of Kenya near Mombasa and is surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife. Kitesurfing at Diani Beach offers a unique experience, with the combination of warm waters and strong winds making it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced kitesurfers. The beach is also equipped with kitesurfing schools and equipment rental shops, so visitors can easily access everything they need to enjoy the sport. Whether you are looking to learn how to kitesurf or simply enjoy the thrill of the sport, Diani Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in kitesurfing.

Kilifi

 Kilifi is located on the Kenyan coast, approximately 50 km north of Mombasa, and is known for its strong and consistent trade winds. This makes it an ideal spot for kitesurfing, especially during the months of June to September when the wind conditions are at their best. The main kitesurfing spot in Kilifi is known as Bofa Beach, which is located just outside of the town. Bofa Beach offers a wide expanse of shallow, turquoise waters that are perfect for kitesurfing. In addition to Bofa Beach, there are several other kitesurfing spots in Kilifi, including Shanzu Beach and Watamu Beach.

Watamu

 Watamu, a coastal town located in Kenya, is well-known for its picturesque beaches and optimal conditions for kitesurfing. This popular kitesurfing destination boasts consistent trade winds and warm waters, making it a top choice for kitesurfers, especially during the months of June to September. The main kitesurfing spot in Watamu is the Blue Lagoon, which is located close to the town and offers ideal conditions for kitesurfing, with its wide and shallow turquoise waters.

ABOUT THE COUNTRY

A Brief History of Kenya

Kenya has a rich and diverse history that spans thousands of years. The earliest evidence of human habitation in Kenya dates back to the Lower Paleolithic era, around 2.5 million years ago. Over the millennia, various groups of people settled in Kenya, including the Bantu-speaking peoples, Nilotic-speaking peoples, and various ethnic groups from the Arabian Peninsula and the Indian subcontinent.

In the 19th century, Kenya became a focal point for European exploration and colonization. The British established a protectorate over Kenya in 1895, and the country was formally annexed to the British Empire in 1920. During this period, Kenya became an important center for agriculture, with large-scale coffee and tea plantations being established by British settlers.

After World War II, Kenya became a center of political activity and anti-colonial struggle, and in 1963, the country gained independence from Britain. In the decades that followed, Kenya underwent a rapid social and economic change, with the country becoming a republic in 1964 and undergoing a series of reforms aimed at improving the lives of its citizens.

In recent years, Kenya has continued to grow and develop, and today it is one of the leading economies in Africa. Despite ongoing challenges, such as poverty, corruption, and political instability, Kenya remains an important and influential nation on the continent and is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes.

Other Attractions in Kenya

Kenya is known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife, making it an ideal destination for adventure lovers. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, Kenya has something to offer everyone.

Kenya is famous for its wildlife safaris, where you can see lions, elephants, rhinos, and many other species in their natural habitats. You can also experience the beauty of the Maasai Mara from a different perspective with a hot air balloon safari.

Mount Kenya is the second-highest mountain in Africa and a popular destination for trekking and climbing.  Kenya also offers some of the best biking trails in the world, where you can experience the scenic beauty of the country while cycling through different terrains. The rock formations in Kenya are perfect for rock climbing and offer a thrilling experience for adventure seekers.

The Tana River in Kenya is a popular destination for white-water rafting, and the rapids offer a thrilling experience for those who love adventure.

Getting to Kenya

Getting to Kenya is relatively easy, with several flights available from major cities around the world. The main international airport in Kenya is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), which is located in the capital city of Nairobi. From here, travelers can connect to other destinations within Kenya and around the world.

Most major airlines offer flights to Nairobi with connections from cities in Europe, Asia, and North America. Some airlines also offer direct flights to other cities in Kenya, such as Mombasa and Kisumu.

In addition to air travel, it's also possible to enter Kenya by road, either from neighboring countries such as Tanzania, Uganda, or South Sudan or by using one of the country's several land border crossings. While overland travel can be a bit more challenging, it can also be a rewarding and culturally rich experience, allowing travelers to see the country and its people up close.

Traveling to Kenya by water is possible, but not as common as by air or land. The main port of entry for maritime travel is the port city of Mombasa, which is located on Kenya's Indian Ocean coast. From here, travelers can take ferries to other islands in the region or continue their journey overland to other parts of Kenya. Also, some travelers opt to arrive in Mombasa via cruise ship, while others choose to take a private yacht or sailboat, allowing them to explore the coastline and islands at their own pace.

USEFUL RESOURCES

• Kenya Tourism 
• Ministry of Tourism