Kenya is world-renowned as one of the premier safari destinations in Africa with unparalleled wildlife. The annual migration of wildebeest in the Masaai Mara is a spectacle that falls high on the bucket list of many travelers. As massive herds of wildebeest pour across the plains and bring the Mara to life, predators are never far away, and the abundance of animals offers an unforgettable wildlife experience. However, a vacation in Kenya is not complete without making time to explore Kenya’s diverse and interesting cultural tribes.
Tourists can find new and fascinating cultures and experience a range of cultural events across Kenya, from meeting the Swahili sailors of the coast and visiting the thorn-enclosed villages of the Maasai in the south to walking alongside Samburu warriors in the northern wilderness or fishing with the Luo, master fishermen of Lake Victoria, in the west.
The Maasai culture has become widely known throughout the world thanks to the popularity of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, which is the most visited wildlife sanctuary in Kenya. Visiting a Maasai village, or manyatta, is a good way for tourists to learn more about the Masaai culture and everyday life. There are many cultural manyattas that can be visited by tourists.
Another way to experience and learn about Maasai life is to embark on a foot safari or organized trek with an experienced Maasai guide. This will enable visitors to get to know the area and to spend time among Maasai communities. It is also a great way to experience the bush and the wildlife from a completely different perspective.
In recent years, distinctive Maasai beading and decorative jewelry has become a fashion item, one of the most popular items taken home by visitors to Kenya. Maasai beading and designs are now featured on many modern functional items, including watchstraps, belts, handbags and even mobile phone covers.
Although less known than the Maasai, the Samburu in the Northern Plains have an equally intricate and fascinating culture. Most safaris and treks through this region will pass through Samburu lands. It is well worth spending some time learning more about the Samburu and their culture. The best way to do this is to take a camel or walking safari with a local Samburu guide or to stay in a lodge or camp managed by a Samburu community.
The numerous festivals, events and ceremonies in Kenya are another interesting way to explore the local culture. From the annual Malindi celebrations in Lamu and the bullfights of Kakamega to the Mombasa Carnival, visitors have ample choice.
The Lamu Cultural Festival is a celebration of both the past and the future and offers visitors a chance to experience Lamu life at its most exuberant and joyous. Several competitions and races are staged during this weeklong event, including traditional Swahili poetry, henna painting and bao competitions. Bao is a popular board game in the region, one which is believed to have been around since at least the 17th century. However, the real highlight of the Lamu festival is the donkey race.
Fast facts
• Languages: Kenya is a multilingual country, but Swahili and English are the two official working languages.
• Climate: Kenya is generally a dry country. Generally the climate is warm and humid at the coast, cool and humid in the central highlands and hot and dry in the north and east. The best time to visit Kenya is during the dry seasons, from January to March and July through October.
• Currency: the Kenyan shilling. The U.S. dollar and British pound are easy to change throughout the country, as is the euro. Credit cards are becoming increasingly popular, with Visa and Mastercard now widely accepted.
• Getting there: Jomo Kenyatta Airport is located a little less than 10 miles southeast of the city. The airport features two international terminals, a smaller domestic terminal and an incredible number of shops offering duty-free and expensive souvenirs as well as snacks and Internet access.
• U.S. citizens are required to apply for a visa for travel to Kenya.