Kenya is undoubtably on everyones bucket list, and the main reason we hear people holding back on a trip to this incredible country is that they have no one to travel with. So, we are here to decipher the age old question: Is Kenya for solo travellers?
Kenya is generally considered a safe country compared to other countries in Africa, and travelling in Kenya can be a fantastic experience, as the country offers a wide range of attractions and activities that are well-suited for solo travellers. But as with any travel, it is important to take necessary precautions and be aware of potential risks.
Kenya has a stable government, a growing economy, and a well-developed tourist industry, which has contributed to its reputation as a safe destination. The country also has a large and well-trained police force, which helps to maintain public safety.
Tips for traveling solo in Kenya:
Plan ahead: Research your destinations and create a detailed itinerary of where you want to go, including information about transportation, accommodation, and attractions. Be sure to share your itinerary with someone you trust.
Stay in safe and reputable accommodations: Look for accommodations that have good reviews and are known to be safe and secure, such as well-reviewed hotels or hostels. Avoid staying in areas that are known to be less safe or in cheap or unverified accommodations.
Be aware of your surroundings: When exploring new places, be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or isolated areas.
Dress appropriately: Dress modestly and respect local customs and culture. This will help you to blend in and avoid unwanted attention.
Use a trusted guide: If you plan to visit national parks or other outdoor attractions, consider using a trusted guide who can help keep you safe and show you around.
Be respectful and friendly: Kenyans are generally friendly and welcoming people. Show respect for local customs and culture, and be friendly and open to meeting new people.
Take necessary health precautions: Consult with a doctor or travel clinic before your trip to ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and medication, such as anti-malaria medication, and avoid drinking tap water.
Be open minded! Other solo travellers may be few and far between so embrace the adventure.
Overall, traveling solo in Kenya can be an exciting and rewarding experience. With some careful planning and preparation, you can enjoy all that the country has to offer while staying safe and making the most of your trip.
Located in the East Africa, and providing access to nearly every buck list item that Africa has to offer, Kenya is absolutely ideal for an African Adventure. The country's amazing range of resorts, hotels, lodges and campgrounds make it simple to live the good life, both alone or with new friends, while enjoying the nature and landscape that hoards of tourist come to see every year.
How to meet people in Kenya
Group Tours
We truely believe that the best way to meet people and explore this amazing places is with a group. Kenya is full of Bucket List Experiences, like a safari in the Maasai Mara, a boat ride around Lake Naivasha, hiking around Lake Nakuru or riding a bike through Hells Gate National Park.
You can also watch the wildebeest migration over the Mara River, spot the big five, visit a Maasai Village and volunteering at a school or community project. Finding a tour is not a problem, it is finding the right tour.
Some things to consider when booking a tour in Kenya:
1). Demographic
What is the demographic of the Tourist in your group and do the company guarantee that demographic. For example; at Indy Escapes, we guarantee that all guests will be 'Young Professionals' ages between their late 20's to early 40's. Whether you are looking to travel with people on their GAP year (aged 18-21) or people in an older demographic (aged 50+), just make sure you confirm with the gourd before paying your deposit.
2). Itinerary
What are your main interests and what do you want to see and experience during your visit? Is it the right season for you to experience all that you desire? Also, do the departure dates line up? Whatever your itinerary, be sure to include time for relaxation and exploration, as well as wildlife viewing and adventure activities. These factors will help you plan a suitable itinerary for your trip.
3). Accomodation
Kenya offers a variety of accommodation types to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some of the most common types of accommodation you can find in Kenya:
Hotels: There are many hotels in Kenya, ranging from budget to luxury. They offer standard amenities such as restaurants, bars, swimming pools, and fitness centers.
Lodges: Safari lodges are popular in Kenya, offering a blend of luxury and wilderness. These are typically located within or near game reserves, with rooms or tented camps that offer amenities like hot water, electricity, and private bathrooms.
Tented Camps/Glamping: Tented camps (also known as Glamping) are similar to lodges, but they offer an immersive experience of the wilderness, with tents as the primary accommodation, some even fitted with private ensuites. They are popular for safari experiences, but can also be found in other natural areas.
Resorts: Kenya has a few beach resorts along the coast, which offer activities such as snorkeling, diving, and water sports. They often have a variety of rooms, suites, and villas, with a range of amenities and services.
Homestays: Some travelers prefer to stay with local families to get a more authentic experience of Kenyan culture. Homestays offer a unique opportunity to learn about local customs, foods, and lifestyles.
Camping: Camping is also popular in Kenya, particularly for budget travelers. Most camping sites provide basic facilities such as toilets, showers, and cooking areas.
Whatever your preference, it's important to research and compare different types of accommodation to find the best option for your needs and budget.
Day Trips
There are many day trips you can take in Kenya, depending on your interests and location. Here are some ideas for day trips from popular destinations:
From Nairobi:
Nairobi National Park: This is the only national park in the world located within a city. It offers visitors the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, and giraffes.
Giraffe Centre: Visitors can get up close and personal with giraffes at this conservation center, which is home to a herd of Rothschild's giraffes.
Visit the Elephant orphanage: The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is dedicated to the conservation of elephants and other wildlife in Kenya. Visitors can see baby elephants being fed and learn about the organization's conservation efforts.
Karen Blixen Museum: The museum is located in the former home of the author of the memoir "Out of Africa," and it offers visitors a glimpse into the life of early colonial settlers in Kenya.
Nairobi National Museum: The museum showcases Kenya's rich cultural and natural history and features exhibits on anthropology, art, and wildlife.
Shop at the Maasai Market: The Maasai Market is a popular outdoor market in Nairobi, Kenya, where visitors can buy a wide range of African arts and crafts, including clothing, jewelry, wood carvings, and textiles.
Nairobi is also known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse cuisine, and shopping. Visitors can explore the city's markets and shopping centers, sample traditional Kenyan dishes, and enjoy a night out in the city's bars and clubs.
From Mombasa:
Visit the Haller Park, a nature reserve and animal sanctuary with wildlife, reptiles, and birds
Take a city tour of Mombasa to see historical and cultural landmarks such as Fort Jesus and the Old Town
Spend a day on the beach in Diani, with white sand and crystal-clear waters
From Kisumu:
Take a boat ride on Lake Victoria to explore nearby islands and fishing villages
Visit the Kisumu Impala Sanctuary, a nature reserve with wildlife such as impalas, baboons, and giraffes
Learn about local culture and traditions with a visit to a nearby Luo village
From Maasai Mara:
Take a hot air balloon safari for a bird's-eye view of the savannah and wildlife
Visit a local Maasai village to learn about their way of life and culture
Take a guided nature walk to learn about the flora and fauna of the savannah
These are just a few examples of day trips you can take in Kenya. There are many other options available depending on your interests and location. Be sure to research and plan your trip in advance to make the most of your time in Kenya and not get stuck on a tour with an inexperienced guide, wrong demographic in your group or wrong budget/accommodation for what you expect.
Nightlife in Nairobi
Alchemist Bar: This trendy bar and lounge in the Westlands area of Nairobi is a popular spot for live music, DJs, and events. It also has a great outdoor space with food trucks and a beer garden.
Brew Bistro: With several locations in Nairobi, Brew Bistro is a popular spot for craft beer and cocktails, as well as live music and events.
Kiza Lounge: This upscale nightclub in Kilimani is a popular spot for dancing and partying, with a mix of local and international music.
J's Fresh Bar and Kitchen: Located in the Westlands area, J's is a popular spot for happy hour drinks and casual dining. It also has a rooftop bar with great views of the city.
Mercury Lounge: This rooftop bar and lounge in the CBD is a popular spot for after-work drinks and sunset views. It also has a club downstairs with DJs and dancing.
Tree House: This outdoor rooftop bar in the Westlands area is a great spot for drinks and a relaxed atmosphere. It also has a restaurant and often hosts live music events.
Tamasha: With several locations in Nairobi, Tamasha is a popular spot for live music, sports viewing, and a variety of drink specials.
Ole Sereni does have a rooftop pool and bar that offer guests stunning views of Nairobi National Park and the city skyline. The rooftop pool is surrounded by sun loungers and umbrellas for guests to relax and soak up the sun. The area also offers guests panoramic views of the park and the city. The bar serves a variety of cocktails, wines, and beers, as well as light snacks and bar bites. Guests can enjoy their drinks and snacks while taking in the stunning views of Nairobi from above. The rooftop pool and bar are popular among both hotel guests and locals, and offer a unique and luxurious way to experience the city's skyline and natural beauty.
Meet Up App
Meet Up is a renowned worldwide platform that enables users to find and connect with local communities, and the best thing is, its FREE! If you are looking to see what is happening in a certain city just log in and scroll through the events. The group are generally full of fun loving people who just want to get together and have a good time. There could be a mix of locals, travellers, couples, singles and solo travellers in Kenya, who are also finding it hard to meet people. Thanks to Meet Up you now have a genuine opportunity to make new friends in Kenya, from all over there world.
Dating Apps
Like anywhere in the world, dating apps are an awesome way to meet new people. With an abundance of options ranging from Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, OKCupid, Happn.. (The list goes on!) we have found this to be a great way to meet other solo travellers or singles in Kenya. There is only one catch.. They will likely have to be on the same campground as you when you are on safari, otherwise it gets tricky. Given that the campgrounds and resorts are exclusive and hard to get to, your best best is to keep your perimeter tight. Whether you are looking for a holiday fling or just a friend to spend the days with, an experience in Kenya is better to be shared than spent alone. If you're seeking friendship or something more, sign up today and begin meeting new people.
Overall, there are a number of ways to meet people if you are a single in Kenya, from resorts, hotels, campgrounds and local guesthouses, day trips and safaris, restaurants, bars or even through volunteering. In saying that, being in a developing African country with an tourism industry that is bases on ground tours and safaris, we do know from experience that travelling solo in Kenya, is definitely possible, it can be frustrating, lengthy and can also get lonely at times so we do obviously recommend joining us on our Kenya - Safari & Volunteer experience because 'hand on heart', this is the best way to meet likeminded people in Kenya and maximise your fun!
We hope that by the time you have finished reading this article that you can actually travel to Kenya alone and that you don't need to wait for anyone! After living though a pandemic, we all realise now that there is never a good or bad time to do something and we just need to make the most of the time that we have!
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