Kenya Holiday

Kenya, in east Africa, is a paradise for nature lovers but also offers a host of holiday options for any traveller, from those fascinated by ancient history and cultures through to sunseekers.

The two largest cities, Mombasa and Nairobi provide a good starting place for a visit to the country and they are both strikingly different. Mombasa is a tropical island port, with a centuries old fort and harbour, while Nairobi is the hectic capital with modern buildings and commercial developments.

Hailed by anthropologists and archaeologists as the 'cradle of humanity', Kenya was founded by revolutionary Jomo Kenyatta after winning its independence from the UK in 1963. The oldest human remains have been found in Kenya, along with Stone Age artefacts, and the country and its many peoples have passed through control of both the Portuguese and the British Empire. Kenya became a multi-party state in 1992 following international pressure and has since witnessed relative calm, though tensions between ethnic groups still exist in some areas.

By far the most common reason for travelling to Kenya is to take a safari in one of the country's incredible national parks. Safari, from the Swahili word for journey, can be an unforgettable experience for anyone of any age. Kenyan safaris offer the opportunity to watch incredible sights such as the annual mass migration of wildebeests across the vast savannah, as well as lions, elephants and colourful tropical birds, all in their natural habitats. Tourists can relax in the evening, look out across the wildlife parks at the dramatic sunset and sip a drink on the verandah of one of Kenya's many excellent and luxurious lodges.

The Kenyan terrain ranges from tropical rainforest to sun-baked expanses, mountains and lakes, all offering the wildlife enthusiast a unique and memorable experience. The stunning Maasai Mara is a must see, with its myriad wildlife and exceptional tribal culture. Travellers can visit the ethnic heartlands and purchase distinctive Maasai beading and decorative jewellery from the nomadic cattle herders, many of whom live in exactly the same way as their ancestors.

Kenya has 42 cultures and there are numerous cultural centres around the country for visitors eager to learn more about the country's indigenous heritage. Kenya also has many historic sites dotted across the nation, from prehistoric settlements to relics from the Middle Ages.

There is 536 km of Kenyan coastline to explore and an increasing number of luxury hotels and resorts are springing up along the palm-lined shores. The country has some dazzling coral sand beaches and holidaymakers can take advantage of the fabulous weather in absolute comfort, attended by friendly and efficient Kenyan staff. The thriving coral reefs provide natural entertainment in the form of snorkelling and diving in the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean.

As far as food and drink is concerned, travellers are well advised to steer clear of the potentially lethal numerous local home made brews. However, the meat dishes are varied and include exotic delicacies such as zebra, shark and camel. Traditional spiced meat samosas, maize, chicken cooked with coconut, banana bread and polenta can also be found in plentiful supply and drinks include excellent Kenyan tea and coffee and fresh coconut juice. Many of the tourist areas and hotels also serve western food and curries.

Shoppers will be drawn to Kenya's lively and colourful markets, where blankets and jewellery of all kinds can be purchased. Tourists to Kenya should be warned that bandits do pose a threat in certain regions and it is important to ensure a trip is conducted sensibly and safely.