Kenya in East Africa is one of the earth’s ultimate safari honeymoon destinations and a veritable paradise for wildlife lovers. While most couples are here for safari, there is a lot happening in Nairobi and you’ve got some dazzling beaches, too. It’s one of the most diverse countries in Africa.
Most couples start their honeymoon in Kenya in the capital, Nairobi, where you can experience one of Africa’s largest cities. With Nairobi National Park on the edge of the city, you can explore wildlife plus museums, dining and nightlife. If you can, stay at the famous Giraffe Manor. However, it has at least a one-year waiting list, so start booking now! Check out the Karen Blixen Museum and take a tour with former street children.
With stunning and diverse vistas around every corner, from savannahs and lakes and soaring mountains, Kenya’s treasures will leave you in awe. It is rich in African culture and home to peoples, including the Swahili people and, most famously, the best-known nomadic people, the Maasai tribe. Immerse yourself in the traditions and customs of the locals who inhabit the ancient land of the Masai Mara (and Serengeti in Tanzania). In fact, you can often combine a safari honeymoon in Kenya with a honeymoon in Tanzania. Explore the difference between these two Africa highlights here.
Marvel at the marvellous wildlife spectacle, the Great Migration of two million wildebeests each summer. The herds on the move, crossing at the Mara River around late July/early August, is considered the ‘greatest wildlife show on earth’. However, the herds can be seen all year round in Kenya and Tanzania.
The Great Rift Valley, the 5000km crack in the earth’s crust, is home to abundant wildlife. Witness Lake Nakuru with its flamboyance of flamingos, and see elephants up close at Amboseli with snow-dusted Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain in Tanzania in the distance. Kenya is a haven for hikers with many treks on Mt. Kenya and Mt. Longonot. It’s also a haven for bird lovers. With over a thousand different bird species, including ostriches. Keep your eyes peeled while out on safari or taking a stroll through one of the many national parks–you never know what feathered friends you might spot!
Many parks, reserves and conservancies are within driving distance of Nairobi. Top of most lists is a Masai Mara safari and the Maasai Mara reserve is around a 4-hour drive. Take an overland safari over a few days or a ‘fly-in’ for a few days at an ultra-luxury lodge. Don’t forget to add on a hot-air balloon ride. You can also head north to some lesser-visited gems like Aberdare National Park and Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Central Kenya’s Laikipia County. Tsavo National Park is also one of the oldest parks in Kenya.
If you can tear yourself away from the incredible spectacle of nature, the contrasting white sandy beaches along the Indian Ocean are perfect for some rest and relaxation. The coastal city of Mombasa is the gateway to beautiful beaches like Diani Beach and offshore islands like the Lamu archipelago. Explore the coral reefs when you go snorkelling and diving. If you want to explore a multi-destination honeymoon, consider an epic island hopping honeymoon in the stunningly beautiful Seychelles or a relaxing all inclusive honeymoon add on in Mauritius. There are direct flights to both from Nairobi. You could also add in a stop in one of our favourite destinations for a city honeymoon, Dubai. For couples with more time, Nairobi is well connected to Johannesburg so you could add on South Africa, Namibia or Botswana with Victoria Falls.
From the sparkling Indian Ocean coastline to the breathtaking Great Rift Valley, Kenya is blessed with natural beauty at every turn. No matter where you go, you’ll be treated to stunning views and unforgettable wildlife experiences that will stay with you long after your trip is over. A honeymoon in Kenya is an Out of Africa dream.