It tends to get bleak at times, doesn’t it? I mean the everyday mundane business of living, and it’s in such moments that our souls beckon us to dream again, to break out into the wild, the new, and the exciting, to face the unknown and discover the wonder that surrounds us.
There is always a perfect spot to soothe your spirit, unwind and recharge. Here are the top 7 destinations in Kenya where you can awaken the dormant in you and create memories that would last a lifetime.
1. Aberdare National Park

waterfalls at Aberdare.
Image: Tsavo National Park Kenya
Aberdare is that ideal destination, if you are eager for a safari drive, nature walks, scenery viewing, bird watching, or even golf. It is a 3-hour drive from the capital Nairobi.
Aberdare National Park boasts a plethora of wildlife, you would get a chance to see rhinos, elephants, lions, serval cats, bush pigs, bongo antelopes, and sykes’ monkeys, among others. If that isn’t enough, there are over 250 bird species in this vast ecosystem.
The landscape itself is breathtaking, the Aberdare ranges comprise several hills, which include Mt. Satima (the tallest), Mt Kinangop, Table Mountains, Martini Hill, Mt. Chebuswa, and Elephant Mountain. You will also discover picturesque waterfalls such as Karuru waterfall and several ravines.
2. Lake Bogoria

Lake Bogoria.
Image: RFI.FI
Lake Bogoria has been categorized by UNESCO as a Ramsar site, implying its ecological importance. It is a saline alkaline lake that has created a perfect environment for millions of flamingoes to breed and thrive. Alongside Lake Nakuru, Lake Bogoria is a top destination for flamingo enthusiasts from all over the world.
It’s not just flamingoes, within Lake Bogoria National Park, you will get to view Zebras, Caracal Hyenas, and even Lions.
The lake contains roughly 200 hot springs and 17 geysers (ranks the first in Africa, in terms of the highest number of geysers).
It is a 4-5 hours drive from Nairobi.
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3. Watamu

Watamu.
Image: Tsavo National Park Kenya
Your weekend can’t get any better than rewarding yourself with a magical experience of Watamu. Well known for its pristine white sands, crystal clear waters, and rich culture, it is a top destination for anyone eager to unwind in the cool coastal waters.
You definitely wouldn’t lack something to thrill your senses in Watamu, from scuba diving, kite surfing, snorkeling, dhow trips, and beach walks, to touring the famous Gedi Ruins or the Arabuko Sokoke Forest which is located nearby.
There are many hotels near the beach offering excellent accommodation, including Ocean Sports Resort, Turtle Bay Beach Club, and Watamu Treehouse.
Watamu is just an hour’s flight from Nairobi.
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4. Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha.
Image: lakenakurukenya.com
You ask about serene lakes, abundant wildlife, thrilling sports, great hikes, rich food, elegant hospitality, mind-blowing safari rallies…name it. Naivasha simply has it all. Perhaps the most exciting destination for local tourists.
Just within Naivasha are other marvelous spots for an adventure seeker, there is Mt. Longonot, Hell’s Gate National Park, and Crescent Island.
If you are a fan of boat cruises you would be in the right place, because the lake offers ideal waters for this. Encompassing the lake is Lake Naivasha National Park where tourists can enjoy game drives and view buffaloes, hippos, and over 400 species of birds.
It is approximately a 1 hour and 30 minutes drive from Nairobi.
You may consider Lake Naivasha Spa Resort, Naivasha Kongoni Lodge, or Sawela Lodge, for a fantastic accommodation.
5. Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park.
image: stock.adobe
You will most likely encounter four of the big five at Amboseli National Park. The missing one is Rhino. Amboseli is the home of elephants, the herds are just about everywhere.
On top of game drives, visitors engage in hot air ballooning or simply savor the view of the highest landmark in Africa, Mt Kilimanjaro.
The drive to Amboseli from Nairobi takes about 4 hours. Check out Elerai Camp, Tortilis Camp, or Kilima Safari Lodge for cozy accommodation.
6. Ngare Ndare Forest

Ngare Ndare Forest.
Image: Viator
Nestled at the foothills of Mt. Kenya, Ngare Ndare Forest is a vibrant and thriving ecosystem, home to the Big Five and over 200 bird species. The forest is adorned with six stunning natural azure pools and cascading waterfalls, creating a picturesque landscape.
This is the ideal spot for Tree Canopy walks, savoring a 450 m long bridge suspended 30 feet high, (the longest in East Africa).
When done with a canopy walk, how about a dive into the natural blue waters for a swim or testing your resilience in rock climbing?
Ngare Ndare forest is located in Nanyuki, a 4-hour drive from Nairobi.
7. Hell’s Gate National Park

Ol Jorowa Gorge Hell’s Gate.
Image: National Geographic
Near Lake Naivasha is Hell’s Gate National Park. Interestingly, Hell’s Gate is still covered by ashes from the Mt. Longonot eruption a century ago.
The area is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including the striking Ol Jorowa Gorge and the iconic Fischer’s Tower.
It is home to Giraffes, Elands, Hartebeests, Buffaloes, Lions, Cheetahs and Leopards. 103 species of birds also dwell here.
Immerse yourself in the wonders of fantastic game drives, walking safaris, cycling, and rock climbing.
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