Kenya

The essence of Africa rolled into one country? Maybe. From dense mountain forests to acacia-studded savannah; colourful tribes to vibrant coral reefs; and chalk-white beaches to some of the continent’s best wildlife, this is a country that certainly packs it all in. <br /> <br /> It’s where the whole idea of big game hunting trips was invented well over 100 years ago. Now, while cameras have replaced rifles, Kenya is as good as ever in terms of wildlife. Big game doesn’t come any bigger than the annual Great Migration – when over two million wildebeest, gazelles, zebras and attendant predators cross into the fabled Maasai Mara in search of good grazing.<br /> <br /> But that’s just one aspect of wildlife viewing here. There are the picture-postcard views – like the definitive Kenyan wildlife shot of elephants against a backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s a top destination for birds too, especially the flamingo-fringed shores of Lake Nakuru and the sightings-rich Marine National Park on the Indian Ocean coast.<br /> <br /> A well-developed tourist industry means many options for travellers, from classic safari camps and country houses, to bush cool and barefoot luxury. Add a human population as fascinating and varied as its animals (with around 40 different ethnic groups), and it’s no wonder that Kenya is one of Africa’s crown jewels.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

CAPITAL CITY | Nairobi
TIME DIFFERENCE | GMT +2 hours
BEST TIME TO VISIT | Jul-Oct
CURRENCY | Kenyan Shilling (US$ are useful for tipping)