Kenya is a country and a tourist place that offers more than just the famous safaris and the Maasai Mara, as the latter is a world of hidden gems that are loved and appreciated by the locals mainly because they are situated off the beaten tourist tracks. The listed places to visit in Kenya, which are not on the tourist map, showcase nature’s beauty, provide real cultural experiences, and offer peaceful places in which you can quietly meditate away from the crowd of tourists. Those are the undisturbed and remote places of Kenya, where the traveler looking for a different scene is the only one to be found. Whether nature attracts your interest or culture is your drug, here are a few off-beat destinations that offer a glimpse of the country that not many foreigners have seen.
1. Lake Turkana – The Jade Sea
More than that, the Lake Turkana is the world’s biggest desert lake which will undoubtedly leave you in awe of its surreal nature. The desert landscapes and the turquoise waters are like two sides of the same coin – one glaringly visible and the other hidden still. The locals visit the place frequently for cultural festivals and fishing, but most of the tourists stay away from the northern parts of the country. The region has, in fact, disclosed the mysteries of Kenya’s native people coupled with the olden times near Koobi Fora.
2. Kakamega Forest – Kenya’s Last Rainforest
Kakamega Forest which is located in the western parts of Kenya is an ecotone area of rich biodiversity having exotic birds, butterflies and even rare primates. It is the ultimate retreat for eco-tourism/hikers. Even though the place is stunningly beautiful, it is one of the places in Kenya whose public awareness is the least, and it is a rare chance to avoid the bustling national parks and to pray for peace and quiet with nature.
3. Rusinga Island – A Hidden Gem on Lake Victoria
Rusinga Island brings together serene lakeside views, fishing experiences, and cultural heritage. Locals appreciate its slow pace and the traditional Luo cuisine. Most tourists tend to skip this island which is suitable for boating, birdwatching, and living the real village life.
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4. Chyulu Hills – The Green Hills of Africa
Chyulu Hills, which are a range of green hills full of caves, lie between Tsavo and Amboseli National Parks. Those caves are a consequence of the lava flows of an ancient time. The area is very much loved by the locals for outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding. It is a pristine paradise that has been referred to as “The Green Hills of Africa” by Ernest Hemingway in his travels.
5. Lamu Island – A Coastal Treasure
Although Lamu is no longer a secret, it still gives the feeling of a hidden jewel when compared to Mombasa. Its Swahili culture, absence of cars, and unspoiled beaches are the main reasons for its popularity with the locals who want to experience something peaceful and traditional.
