Discover Kenya with friends
Planning an unforgettable trip with your friends? Kenya deserves a top spot on your bucket list!
From action-packed adventures to laid-back beach vibes, Kenya truly has it all. In this article, you’ll discover exciting activities, great accommodation options, and must-see highlights that will leave you counting the days until takeoff.
We’re not exaggerating when we say: Kenya is a dream destination. Whether you’re into hiking and mountain climbing, exploring breathtaking wildlife and landscapes, or enjoying buzzing nightlife in the cities and along the coast — there’s something here for every kind of traveler.
So, without further ado… let’s dive in! 😉
Thrilling activities in Kenya
Safari together
When in Kenya, you have to go on a safari. There’s no way around it! Get stunned by the Great Migration in the Masai Mara, explore the famous Amboseli National Park with the Big Five and its big herds of elephants or discover the hidden beauties of the two Tsavos – Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Park. If you don’t want to sit in a jeep for hours, you can also walk! A walking safari, for example in the Severin Safari Camp, will make your heart skip a beat, or two. For a few hours, you dive into Kenya’s nature with a ranger and watch elephants picking fruit from the coconut trees – just a few metres in front of you! No matter which safari you go for, hold your camera close! You never know which wildlife beauties await you around the next corner.
Hike Together
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with your friends by hiking to the summit of Mount Kenya, or opt for a shorter but equally stunning trek up Mount Longonot. Located near the scenic Lake Naivasha, this dormant volcano offers jaw-dropping views of the Great Rift Valley and its impressive crater. Along the way, you’re likely to spot a variety of wildlife—gazelles, giraffes, zebras, and maybe even a few buffalos. It’s the perfect mix of thrill and nature!
Swim with whale sharks
There are not many places in the world where you can find whale sharks. Luckily, Diani Beach is one of them. So don’t miss out on this marine adventure and meet the (vegan!) giants of the sea up close. Between December and mid-March you can go deep – an experience, which will move you to tears forever!
Shimba Hills
Hop on a quad bike and explore the breathtaking Shimba Hills National Reserve, home to one of East Africa’s largest coastal forests. Cruise through lush, diverse landscapes, cool off under a natural waterfall shower (no soap allowed—keep it eco-friendly!), and get up close with wildlife. With a bit of luck, you might spot elephant shrews, hyenas, buffalos, leopards, bushbucks, duikers, giraffes, genets, monkeys, vibrant birdlife, and the rare and magnificent sable antelope.
Rock climbing in Hell’s Gate National Park
Ready to channel your inner Alex Honnold? Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a curious beginner, Hell’s Gate National Park offers an unforgettable rock-climbing experience. Newbies can team up with expert guides and rent equipment, while advanced climbers can tackle multi-pitch routes across dramatic rock faces. Pro tip: keep your eyes peeled—not just for handholds, but for baboons, klipspringers, and other curious wildlife sharing the cliffs with you. 🧗♂️🐒
Laid-back Activities in Kenya
Visit Local Tribes
You’ve likely heard of the world-famous Maasai—and yes, you can meet them and experience their unique way of life during your Kenya adventure with friends. But Kenya’s cultural richness doesn’t stop there. Explore the traditions of other indigenous communities like the Samburu, Umoja, and Digo. Discovering their customs and daily life is a deeply rewarding experience that will stay with you long after your trip ends.
Swahili Cooking & Painting Class
What’s better than tasting local cuisine? Cooking it yourself! Join a Swahili cooking class where a local chef reveals cherished culinary secrets and teaches you how to recreate the rich flavors of Kenya back home. Want to get even more creative? Pair the experience with a relaxing painting session — it’s the perfect way to bond with friends and make art inspired by your trip.
Bush Breakfast & Lunch
Nothing says “unforgettable” like dining in the wild. Gather your friends for a delicious breakfast or lunch in the heart of nature. Surrounded by bird calls, lion roars, and elephant trumpets, you’ll enjoy freshly prepared local dishes in a truly magical setting — a feast for all senses!
Nai Nami City Tour
Exploring Kenya’s cities with friends? While Mombasa dazzles with its blend of history and coastal charm, Nairobi offers a more urban edge. For a meaningful twist, skip the usual and take the Nai Nami City Tour. Guided by former street kids, this eye-opening tour offers raw, real stories and shows you corners of the capital most tourists never see. If you crave authenticity and connection, this is a must.
Snorkeling & Swahili Seafood Feast
Okay, one last food mention — we promise! Hop aboard a traditional dhow (wooden sailboat) and cruise the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean to Kisite Marine Park. Dive in to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, where you might spot octopus, turtles, starfish, puffer fish, and even playful dolphins. After the swim? Sit back and enjoy a mouthwatering Swahili seafood lunch with amazing vibes and even better company.
Where to Stay? Hotspot: Lamu
Tucked away on Lamu Island north of Mombasa, Lamu offers a quieter, more authentic alternative to popular spots like Diani Beach. Rich in history with Arab, Portuguese, and Swahili influences, it’s a place to get lost in narrow streets, explore traditional markets, or unwind on deserted beaches. Don’t miss the November Lamu Festival — four days of street food, art, and the island’s iconic donkey race. For a relaxing stay that captures the island’s “pole pole” (slowly, slowly) spirit, the charming Peponi Hotel is a perfect retreat.
Diani Beach
Just south of Mombasa, Diani Beach is Kenya’s most iconic coastal escape — and it lives up to the hype. Picture turquoise waters, white sands, swaying palms, and endless activity options, from water sports to vibrant nightlife. Foodies and fun-seekers alike will love the wide range of bars and restaurants. For a cozy and budget-friendly stay, check into Flamboyant Bed & Breakfast. This charming colonial-style gem offers a pool, direct beach access, and a delightful restaurant — all the perks, without the luxury price tag.
Watamu
If you’re looking for a vibrant yet relaxed alternative to the busy party scene at Diani Beach, Watamu is the perfect spot. This stunning beach paradise is nestled beside a lush mangrove forest, offering a unique blend of activities. Spend your days snorkeling in the clear waters, then switch to hiking through the forest trails where you might even catch a glimpse of forest elephants and ancient ruins. When evening comes, unwind with friends at the many cozy restaurants or join lively beach parties. For accommodation, Watamu Temploe Point stands out with its charming bungalows surrounded by greenery. Don’t miss their iconic ocean-front bar, featuring suspended nets where you can enjoy sunset drinks in a truly magical setting.
Chale Island
If your idea of paradise is pure relaxation, Chale Island is the place to be. This private island hosts The Sands hotel, a luxury retreat designed to exceed every expectation. Whether you’re lounging by the pristine swimming pool, dining at top-notch restaurants, or unwinding in ocean-view bandas and overwater suites, comfort and beauty surround you. Spend your days on the exclusive beach, explore the nearby mangrove forest and vibrant underwater world, or witness the incredible sight of Green Turtles nesting on the shore and Colobus monkeys leaping through the treetops.
Ready to round up your friends and jet off to Kenya? Share this guide with your WhatsApp group, pick your favourite spots and activities (no need to do everything together!), and reach out to us. We’ll craft the ideal Kenyan getaway tailored just for you, so you can soon be swimming, exploring, dancing, relaxing, and feasting in one unforgettable adventure.