The Mfangano-Rusinga Island Complex

The Mfangano-Rusinga Island Complex accommodates islands in Lake Victoria. They are inhabited via way of means of the Abasuba community, who hold their sacred webweb sites on Mfangano Island.

Ancient rock artwork is located at the island as well, it’s far concept to had been created via way of means of early forager-hunters, the Twa people. Rusinga is well known for its noticeably wealthy and critical fossil beds of extinct Miocene mammals and hominid ancestors.

The Mfangano Rusinga island

Activities

  • Bird Watching
  • Sport Fishing
  • Cultural & Heritage visits
  • Water Sports
  • Boat Rides.

How To Get There

It takes approximately three hours to journey from Nairobi to Narok with the aid of using road. Here we took our breakfast at Kirubi’s living room this is simply subsequent to the street to your manner to Narok town.

I keep away from taking meats on the street. Kirubi’s living room turned into neat and the group of workers are rapid and we had been now no longer saved expecting too lengthy thinking about that our meals turned into made on order.

The first symptoms and symptoms of Rusinga Island and its surrounding regions may be visible via the picturesque view of Lake Victoria.

Tented Camps

Room

All 11 rooms offer comforts, such as premium bedding and separate sitting areas, in addition to perks, such as separate dining areas and dressing gowns.
More conveniences in all rooms include:
  • Bathrooms with baths or showers and free toiletries.
  • Flat-screen TVs with premium channels.
  • Furnished balconies or patios, separate sitting areas and separate dining areas.
Accommodations

Other perks include:

  • An outdoor pool and a children’s pool, with pool umbrellas.
  • Free bike hire, an outdoor tennis court and limo/town car service.
  • An area shuttle, a 24-hour front desk and helicopter/aeroplane tours.
  • A front desk safe, barbecues and newspapers in the lobby.

Karura Forest is a protected forest reserve located in the northern part of Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city. The forest covers an area of approximately 1,000 hectares and is one of the largest urban forests in the world and it is home to a wide variety of wildlife, as well as several attractions. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Nairobi, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s busy streets

Wildlife

Karura Forest is home to a diverse array of wildlife, both large and small. Here are some of the species of wildlife that visitors may encounter when exploring the forest:

  • Monkeys
  • Birds
  • Bushbucks
  • Butterflies
  • Snakes
  • Small mammals

Karura Forest Attractions and facts

Here are some of Attractions and key facts about Karura Forest:

  • Biodiversity: The forest is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including over 200 bird species, butterflies, monkeys, bushbucks, and other small mammals.
  • Trails and Hiking: The forest has several hiking trails and nature walks that visitors can explore. Some of the popular trails include the Family Trail, the Waterfall Trail, and the Podo Trail. Visitors can also go on guided walks or rent bikes to explore the forest.
  • Waterfalls: The forest has several waterfalls, the largest being the Karura Waterfall, which is located on the Waterfall Trail.
  • History: The forest played an important role in Kenya’s political history, and parts of the forest were used as detention and torture camps during the colonial era. In recent years, the forest has been a symbol of environmental conservation and community activism.
  • Picnic Areas: The forest has several designated picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery.
  • Environmental Education: The forest has an environmental education center where visitors can learn about the ecology and conservation of the forest.

How to get there

The park is located in Nairobi, Kenya, and there are several ways to get there. Here are some options:

  1. By car/taxi: Visitors can take a taxi or drive to the forest. The forest is located about 10 km from the city center, and the drive takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
  2. By public transport: Visitors can take a matatu (shared minibus taxi) to the forest. The closest matatu stage to Karura Forest is at the junction of Limuru Road and Peponi Road. From there, visitors can take a boda boda (motorcycle taxi) to the forest entrance.
  3. Walking/cycling: Visitors who are staying in the nearby neighborhoods can walk or cycle to the forest. The forest has several pedestrian and bike-friendly entrances, including one near the United Nations complex.

Witu forest reserve

Witu Forest reserve, is a covered vicinity in Lamu District, Kenya, East Africa. It became shaped in 1927 with the aid of using combining the Utwani Forest Reserve with the adjoining Gongoni Forest Reserve, despite the fact that the preceding names remained in use. The adjoining Mungajini Forest at the Nairobi Ranch carries about 1,100 hectares (2,718 acres).

As of 2007, there has been no control plan for the woodland, even though it is to be controlled below the Forests Act, 2005, with the aid of using the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) which changed the previous Forest Department in 2005.

Witu Forest Reserve

Best Time to Visit

The reserve may be visited in the course of the year. However, the satisfactory time to experience the wooded area stroll is in drier seasons while the rain wooded area is out of water supply and slippery.

Hotels in and around the Witu Forest Reserve:

The best forest and jungle hotel

  • Keekorok Lodge
  • Fairmont Zimbali Lodge
  • Kumbali Country Lodge
  • Jalsa Beach Hotel & Spa
  • Forest Creek Lodge & Spa
  • Serenity Forest Eco Reserve

Animals

  • Giraffe
  • Gerenuk
  • Gazelle
  • Buffalo
  • Leopard
  • Cheetah
  • Elephant
  • Antelopes
  • Hartebeest
  • Lesser kudu

Sumatran Orang utan mother and baby sitting in tree

Best time to visit

It may be visited all day and any time. However, the satisfactory season to experience the character walks withinside the Witu Forest is all through the dry month. Due to the fact taking safaris all through the Rains may not become true due to the fact the woodland is probably slippery as a result distorting the Forest.

 

 

Lake Baringo is a freshwater lake located in the Kenyan Rift Valley, about 270 km northwest of Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city. It is the northernmost of the Kenyan Rift Valley lakes and the second most northerly freshwater lake in Kenya after Lake Turkana.

Lake Baringo

It covers an area of approximately 130 km² and has a maximum depth of 10 meters. The lake is fed by several rivers, including the Molo, Perkerra, and Ol Arabel. It has no visible outlet and is assumed to lose water only by evaporation.

Lake Baringo Wild life

The Lake is home to a diverse array of wildlife, both on the lake and in the surrounding area. Here are some examples of the wildlife that can be found in and around Lake Baringo:

The Lake is home to a large population of hippopotamuses, which lounge in the lake or graze on the surrounding land. Visitors should exercise caution when approaching the water’s edge due to the presence of Nile crocodiles.

Fish: The lake is home to over 450 species of fish, including the Nile tilapia, catfish, and several species of cichlid.

Birds: Lake Baringo is known for its abundance of birdlife, with over 470 species recorded in the area. Some of the notable bird species include the Goliath heron, the African fish eagle, the Marabou stork, and the flamingo.

Monkeys and baboons: Several species of monkeys and baboons can be found in the surrounding area, including olive baboons, vervet monkeys, and colobus monkeys.

Reptiles: In addition to crocodiles, other reptiles that can be found in the area include snakes, lizards, and tortoises.

When to go to visit Lake Baringo

The best time to visit the Lake is during the dry season. This typically runs from June to October and from December to March. During this time, the weather is warm and dry, and the wildlife is more easily visible as they congregate around the lake in search of water.

It’s also important to note that the lake’s water levels fluctuate depending on the season. Water level is often being highest in November and December. Visitors planning on boating or fishing on the lake should be aware of these seasonal changes and plan accordingly.

 Attractions

Some of several activities and attractions that visitors can enjoy in the lake include;

  • Bird watching
  • Boat tours
  • Fishing
  • Cultural tours
  • Hiking and trekking
  • Visit Lake Baringo Island
  • Hot springs

How to get there

Here are some ways to get to Lake Baringo:

  1. By road: From Nairobi, you can take the A104 road to Nakuru, then turn onto the B4 road towards Kabarnet. After passing Kabarnet, follow the signs to Lake Baringo. The journey takes about 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
  2. By air: There are several flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to the nearby Kabarnet airstrip. From Kabarnet, you can take a taxi or arrange for a transfer to the Lake.
  3. By public transport: There are several buses and matatus (shared taxis) that operate from Nairobi to Kabarnet and other nearby towns. From Kabarnet, you can take a taxi or boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) to the Lake.

Fort Jesus is a historical fortification located in Mombasa, Kenya. It was built by the Portuguese in the late 16th century to protect their interests in the Indian Ocean trade. The fort was designed by an Italian architect, Giovanni Battista Cairati, and was named after Jesus Christ.

Today, Fort Jesus is a popular tourist attraction and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its history through a variety of exhibits and guided tours. The fort also hosts cultural events and performances throughout the year.

Fort Jesus

Attractions in Fort Jesus

Fort Jesus is a popular tourist attraction and offers a variety of things to see and do. Here are some of the top attractions at Fort Jesus:

  1. Fort Jesus Museum: This museum showcases the history of the fort and the surrounding area. It features exhibits on the Portuguese and Arab influences on the region, the slave trade, and Mombasa’s cultural heritage.
  2. The Old Port: The Old Port, which is located just outside the fort, was once an important trade hub in the Indian Ocean. Visitors can explore the area and learn about its history.
  3. The Well: There is a well inside the fort, which was the main source of water for the occupants of the fort. Visitors can descend into the well and see how it was constructed.
  4. The Ramparts: The fort’s ramparts offer stunning views of the Indian Ocean and the surrounding area. Visitors can walk along the ramparts and take in the scenery.
  5. The Tortoise: The fort is home to a giant tortoise, which is believed to be over 200 years old. Visitors can see the tortoise and learn about its history.
  6. Cultural Events: The Fort hosts a variety of cultural events and performances throughout the year, including music, dance, and theater.
  7. Guided Tours: The fort offers guided tours, which provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the fort’s history and architecture.

Fort Jesus  Entry Fee

The entry charges for Fort Jesus in Mombasa, Kenya are as follows:

  • Kenyan Citizens: Ksh. 200 per adult, Ksh. 100 per child (age 5-16), and Ksh. 600 per family (2 adults and 2 children)
  • East African Citizens: USD 12 per adult, USD 6 per child (age 5-16), and USD 36 per family (2 adults and 2 children)
  • Non-East African Citizens: USD 15 per adult, USD 8 per child (age 5-16), and USD 45 per family (2 adults and 2 children)

Please note that these rates are subject to change and it is always best to confirm the current rates before your visit. Also, additional charges may apply for guided tours, cultural events, and other special activities.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Fort Jesus is during the cooler and drier months, which are from June to October and from December to March. During these months, the temperatures are more comfortable, and there is less rainfall, making it easier to explore the fort and its surroundings.

The peak tourist season in Mombasa is from December to February, so it is advisable to book your accommodations and activities in advance during this time. The months of July and August can also be busy due to school holidays.

How to get there

The port is easily accessible by a variety of transportation options. Here are some ways to get to Fort Jesus:

  1. By Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Mombasa and can be a convenient way to get to Fort Jesus. Most taxi drivers will know the location of the fort, and the ride will take about 15 to 20 minutes from the city center.
  2. By Matatu: Matatus are minivans that operate as shared taxis in Kenya. There are several matatus that run from the city center to Fort Jesus. The ride should take about 20 to 30 minutes.
  3. By Tuk-Tuk: Tuk-tuks are three-wheeled vehicles that are common in Mombasa. They can be a fun and affordable way to get to Fort Jesus. Negotiate the price with the driver before getting in, and expect the ride to take about 20 to 30 minutes.
  4. By Walking: For those who enjoy walking, it is possible to walk to the fort from the city center. The walk should take about 30 to 45 minutes, and it is a great way to see the sights of Old Town Mombasa along the way.

Regardless of the transportation option you choose, it is important to take safety precautions while traveling in Mombasa, such as keeping valuables out of sight and avoiding walking alone at night.

Contacts

  • Phone: +254 723 786 433 or +254 722 202 292
  • Email: info@museums.or.ke
  • Website: https://www.museums.or.ke/fort-jesus/

You can use these contact details to get in touch with the fort’s management for inquiries, bookings, and other information.

The ruins of Gedi

The ruins of Gedi are a historic and archaeological webweb page close to the Indian Ocean coast of jap Kenya.

Although there are few historic files specially associating Gedi with Indian Ocean exchange. the webweb page is concept to had been one of the maximum crucial webweb sites alongside the coast. 

Gedi’s structure and an abundance of imported fabric lifestyle inclusive of pottery, beads. And cash offer proof of the city’s growing prosperity over the direction of its career from as early because the 11th century to its abandonment withinside the early 17th century.

View of the Gedi Ruins, close to Mombasa, Kenya

Hotels Around Gedi Ruins

  • Mimi na Wewe
  • The Charming Lonno Lodge
  • Mawe Resort
  • Watamu Treehouse
  • iGV Club Blue Bay

Gede Ruins is open:

  • Mon – Fri 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Buy tickets in advance on Tripadvisor. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund.

What to do at Gedi

The ruins are closely overgrown and placed in a stand of lovely indigenous trees. Butterflies flit thru the sun-dappled shadows and the tree cover is alive with birds and curious monkeys.

Gedi changed into excavated among 1948 and 1958 at some point of which era many homes and artefacts had been uncovered.

You can see historical porcelain embedded withinside the partitions and charming unearths withinside the museum inclusive of Venetian beads and scissors from Spain.

Additionally items from China and India plus carved furniture. There are skilled courses on the museum and you may stroll across the whole site.

Gedi ruins photos

Other Attractions

At the doorway to the Gedi Ruins is the Kipepo Butterfly Project. This is a brilliant network endeavor which brings in a lot wanted earnings for the neighborhood people.

The unique butterflies of the Arabuko Sokoke Forest are bred right here after which dispatched to stay presentations across the world. The Arabuko Sokoke National Park functions the ultimate brilliant indigenous coastal wooded area in Kenya.

It is the house of Forest Elephant and quite a number uncommon plant life and fauna such as the endemic Clarke’s Weaver, making it an ecological hotspot.

Hotels around the Gedi ruins

How to Get There

You can self-pressure to the ruins or take a guided excursion from Malindi that’s located at the northern Swahili Coast.

Gedi is placed south of Malindi, approximately 16km (10 miles) from the town, simply off the Malindi-Mombasa Road withinside the Arabuko Sokoke Forest.

 

Koobi Fora is an important archeological site located on the eastern shore of Lake Turkana in Kenya. The site has gained international fame for the numerous discoveries of early hominid fossils that have been found there.

Koobi Fora

It is considered one of the most important paleontological sites in the world due to the numerous discoveries of early hominid fossils that have been made there.

In addition to the hominid fossils, the site has also yielded a rich array of animal fossils, including those of extinct species such as saber-toothed cats, mammoths, and giant ostriches.

Koobi Fora Archaeological sites and artifacts

The archeological site has yielded numerous important artifacts and fossils, including:

  1. Hominid fossils: The site has yielded many hominid fossils, including those of early humans, such as Australopithecus and Homo erectus. These fossils have helped shed light on the evolution of human beings and their development over time.
  2. Animal fossils: Koobi Fora has also yielded numerous animal fossils, including those of extinct species such as mammoths, giant ostriches, and sabre-toothed cats. These fossils have helped scientists understand the ancient environment of the region and the species that lived there.
  3. Stone tools: Stone tools, such as hand axes, have been found at the site. These tools were likely used by early humans for a variety of purposes, such as butchering animals and cutting plants.
  4. Geologic formations: The site’s geology is also important and has helped scientists understand the ancient environment of the region. Koobi Fora’s sandstones and mudstones have been dated to between 4 and 2 million years ago, making them some of the oldest rock formations in East Africa.

Overall, the artifacts and fossils found at Koobi Fora have contributed significantly to our understanding of human evolution and the ancient environment of East Africa.

The site remains an important location for paleontologists and archeologists, and ongoing research continues to shed light on the rich history of the region.

How to get there

The site is in a remote and arid region, and access can be challenging. Here are some ways to get to Koobi Fora:

  1. By air: The closest airport to Koobi Fora is the Lodwar Airport, which is served by scheduled flights from Nairobi. From Lodwar, it’s about a 4-5 hour drive to Koobi Fora.
  2. By road: Koobi Fora can be reached by road from Nairobi, but it’s a long and challenging journey. The road conditions can be difficult, especially during the rainy season, and a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended.

Best time to visit Koobi Fora

The best time to visit Koobi Fora is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. The dry season offers the best weather conditions for travel. It is also the best time for wildlife viewing in the surrounding areas.

Weather

However, visitors should be prepared for the hot and dry conditions in the region. The temperatures can reach over 100°F during the day.

Also, important to note that the area around Koobi Fora is known for its high levels of tsetse flies.These can be a nuisance and a potential health hazard. Visitors should take precautions, such as wearing long-sleeved clothing and using insect repellent.

About Nairobi Arboretum

Nairobi arboretum is an area protecting residing series of flora for the functions of clinical research, conservation, show and education (Wyse Jackson 1999).

Nairobi Arboretum is a 30.4 hectares of wooded landscape. An oasis near the  heart of the metropolis located withinside the Kilimani area. Approximately 3km from metropolis Centre and adjoining to the State House.

It is bounded with the aid of using the Kirichwa Kubwa River. Arboretum Drive and Kenya Girl Guide Headquarters. The Arboretum changed into installed in 1907 with the aid of using Mr. Batiscombe. Then Deputy Conservator of Forests. To strive out brought forestry bushes for Kenya.

Attractions

The Arboretum is conserving over 350 species of indigenous and individual plants. Maximum of which can be labelled. Domestic to over 100 species of birds. And a huge populace of Sykes and Vervet monkeys.

It is likewise a famous leisure park for metropolis residents, who come searching out tranquility, to take lengthy walks. keep picnics or to commune with their God.

Large agencies frequently come on weekends for team-constructing sports and video games withinside the significant garden on the park.

Whilst love-birds experience spending romantic moments in its secluded spots. Runners additionally like to jog across the Arboretum’s wooded area trails.

How to get there

The Arboretum is 3km from the town Centre. Its proximity to the town Centre makes it without problems on hand on foot.

To get to its predominant front, get onto State House Road close to St Andrew’s Church. Pass beyond St Paul’s Cathedral. YMCA Nairobi Central, University of Nairobi Halls of residence, and beyond the Arboretum Drive junction.

At the factor in which State House street makes a pointy left turn, take the little street that is going instantly ahead. The Nairobi Arboretum predominant front is set 300m ahead. There’s additionally a automobile park at the principle front for vehicles.

Activities available

  • Environmental education (prior booking needed).
  • Learning about trees.
  • Resting.
  • Bird Watching.
  • Butterfly watching.
  • Running.
  • Picnicking.
  • Corporate events (prior booking needed).
  • Concerts.
  • Team Building.
  • Weddings (prior booking needed).
  • Religious activities.

Ngong Hills Forest Reserves

Ngong Hills Forest Reserve. Just like  Nairobi National Park, Ngong Hills Forest Reserve turned into people’s traveler vacation spot to visit Nairobi whilst the pandemic turned into on our shoulders and the 2 come to be the exceptional Nairobi Ventures.

Ngong Hill

He may be supplying you with the Ngong Hills Forest Reserve closing trekking manual 2021. Thank you, for the possibility to pen down my enjoy at Ngong Hills Forest Reserve.

The trekking path is made up of seven Hills, you start trekking on the Ngong Forest Gate that’s closely manned via way of means of the KFS.

Monkey at the forest

 Location

Ngong hills forest reserves is placed withinside the pinnacle northern a part of Kajiado County, Kenya. It is set 29 km from Nairobi CBD one of the fine weekend gateways destination.

Ngong Hills Forest Reserve is at the South West of Nairobi and you can see chic and stupendous perspectives of the Great Rift Valley to the proper and at the left is the stunning Nairobi Views.

 Park Entrance Fees

a) Kenyan & East African Citizens 

Adult: Kshs 232

Child: Kshs 58

b) Residents

Adult: Kshs 464

Child: Kshs 174

c) Non- Residents

Adult: Kshs 696

Child: Kshs 174

Sporting Activities Charges

Cycling: Kshs 116

Horse Riding: Kshs 342

Ziplining: Kshs 1,000 per head

Camping Fee: Kshs 986

Filming: Kshs 46,400

Photography: Kshs 1,160

Video Shoot: Kshs 2,900

Ranger Escort: Kshs 1,160

N/B: If you are planning to stay late, please remember to carry your jacket. It can get cold and windy.

Things To Do At Ngong Hills

Ngong Hills Conservation

  • Hiking
  • Camping
  • Team building
  • Picnics
  • Weddings
  • Viewing
  • Cycling
  • Hiking Ngong Hills
  • Filming
  • Video shooting
  • Archery
  • Ziplining
  • Religious practices such as praying, and many others.

Ngong Hills Kitting

Accommodation

The Hills offers visitors accommodation services that are charged separately from food and beverages. Tourists can also celebrate their special days in hotels after having a good time in Ngong Hills.

Hotel delivery packages include competitive rates for trained staff. under Safety Guidelines for Quality Services. The meals served can be breakfast, lunch, dinner and at the request of the customer.

Meal portions can be; Appetizers, desserts, soups, snacks, drinks and other dishes. Some of the hotels that offer accommodation services include:

  • Ngong Florida Inn.
  • Savanna Sunset Village.
  • Oloolua Resort.
  • Sultan Gardens.
  • Aloha Cottage.
  • Kin’s Hotel.
  • Jordan Breeze.
  • Karen Village Art Resident.
  • Ngong Forest View Apartment.
  • Karen Gables, among others.

Read Also: Tsavo East National Park

 

Haller Park is a nature park located in Bamburi, Mombasa, Kenya. It was formerly a limestone quarry which was rehabilitated and transformed into a nature park by Dr. René Haller in 1971. The park covers an area of approximately 140 hectares and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including a large number of bird species, reptiles, mammals, and insects.

Haller Park
Haller Park

Haller Park Activities

Haller Park offers a range of activities for visitors which incudes;

In addition to its conservation efforts, the Park also engages in sustainable development initiatives which include as mangrove planting, and beekeeping. The park is an excellent example of how degraded ecosystems can be rehabilitated and transformed into thriving nature reserves. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature, wildlife, and sustainable development.

Wild Life

The park is known for its diverse wildlife. Some of the wildlife species you can find in the Park include:

Giraffes – The Park is home to several Rothschild’s giraffes, which are a subspecies of the giraffe found in East Africa.

Hippos – The park has several hippos living in its man-made lake.

Crocodiles – The Park is home to a large number of crocodiles, including Nile crocodiles and American crocodiles.

Haller Park crocodiles

Monkeys – Several species of monkeys. These include Sykes monkeys and vervet monkeys, can be found in the park.

Antelopes – There are several species of antelopes, including impalas, in the park.

Reptiles – The Park is also home to several other reptile species, including snakes and lizards.

Birds – The park is a popular spot for birdwatching, with over 160 species of birds living in the area.

Location

The Park is 2km from the center of Bamburi and the closest airport 13.3km (Mombasa Moi International Airport).

Best Time to visit

The Park in Mombasa-Kenya may be visited all year round. It opens from 8:00am to 5:00pm each day consisting of public holidays.

Educational tours

The Park offers educational tours and talks for both students and adults, designed to provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about the park’s conservation efforts and the importance of environmental sustainability. The education tours and talks are conducted by knowledgeable park guides, and can be tailored to meet the specific needs and interests of the group.

The tours and talks covers topics, such as

  • Park history
  • The park’s rehabilitation process,
  • The flora and fauna found in the park,
  • Conservation efforts being undertaken to protect the natural resources.

Visitors can also learn about the sustainable development initiatives that the park is engaged in, and the mangrove planting and beekeeping projects.

Haller Park Entry Charges

As at September 2021, the entry charges were as follows:

  • Adult Kenyan Citizens: KES 500
  • Child Kenyan Citizens (3 to 12 years): KES 300
  • Adult Resident: KES 1,000
  • Child Resident (3 to 12 years): KES 600
  • Adult Non-Resident: USD 20
  • Child Non-Resident (3 to 12 years): USD 12

It’s worth noting that these prices are subject to change and it’s always a good idea to confirm the current prices before your visit.

  • Cuba Libre.
  • Splendid View Restaurant.
  • Steers Kenya Engen.
  • Palm City Restaurant.
  • Nyali Misono Japanese Restaurant.

Contacts