last edited Mar 25, 2026
Things to Do in Kenya
Beaches and Beach Resorts
It's around Lamu, Malindi, and Mombasa, along the Indian Ocean, that the country's beach resorts and large hotels have developed. More as a complement to a safari than as the primary motivation for a trip to Kenya. Unfortunately, for security reasons, the entire northern coastline from Malindi is no longer really recommended, and beach activities are now essentially limited to the resorts around Mombasa, including Diani Beach.
Diving
Like elsewhere in the Indian Ocean and beyond in the Red Sea, the region offers good diving with three recognized areas. Starting with Diani Beach (to the south), which is the most renowned for its reefs, marine life, and a few wrecks to explore. There are also good spots around Malindi and Mombasa, with diving best done between October and March, the ideal period for the activity.
Other Water Activities
Deep-sea fishing: The country is famous for deep-sea fishing (sharks, swordfish, marlins, etc.), which can be practiced almost year-round along the coast.
Water sports: Thanks to the winds that blow almost constantly along the coast, windsurfing and kitesurfing are easy to practice. For surfing, Malindi offers the best opportunities.
Spa and Wellness
As in many places, this activity has developed in beach areas and large hotels, primarily around Diani Beach. However, here it's more about what they call "Spa & Wellness" than classic thalassotherapy.
Hiking
Hiking on Foot
While Kenya is logically associated with safaris rather than trekking, the country still offers some possibilities. You can walk in certain parks and reserves (Aberdare, Hell's Gate, etc.), though this is more about observing wildlife in a different way than hiking.
For more "traditional" treks, you can head to the Cherangani Hills, a small mountain range in the west, the Mount Elgon bordering Uganda, and especially the Mount Kenya, which can be explored like the Kilimanjaro and even climbed in three or four days of hiking to the summit.
Cycling
While cycling may seem secondary here, the Rift Valley and the area around Mount Kenya offer good roads and trails for mountain biking enthusiasts (if you're motivated). Easier options include rides along the coast near Diani, and a more "original" choice is a cycling safari in Hell's Gate National Park, where there are no large predators.
Horseback Riding
This type of hiking has developed in recent years as an alternative to "traditional" safaris. Instead of discovering wildlife from a vehicle, you do it on horseback, whether in the Masai Mara, at Amboseli, around Mount Kenya, or near Lake Naivasha.
Cultural Life and Activities
Beyond a few historical sites like the old towns of Lamu and Mombasa—both UNESCO World Heritage sites—Kenya has very few built traces of its past. The best way to experience its cultural particularities is through encounters with different communities, some of which still maintain strong traditions, or by attending local festivals and events.
Nightlife and Going Out
As you might expect, nightlife in Kenya is quite limited, though Nairobi has a few spots for going out, having a drink, or listening to music. Otherwise, you’ll need to head to the beach resorts along the coast, like Watamu, Mombasa, and the "must-visit" Diani Beach, south of Mombasa.