Kenya is renowned for its wildlife, but recently its President William Ruto announced plans that could revolutionise the international travel landscape for the country.
In a bid to make the travel process easier, Ruto outlined plans for an e-tourism portal that would issue electronic travel permits, eliminating the visa requirement in the near future. Initially, this was for African countries, but now it has been extended to all countries, allowing tourists from all over the world to visit Kenya and experience the natural beauty of the country. Currently, Indian tourists have to apply for a three months tourist visa, which costs about ₹ 6,000, to visit Kenya.
President Ruto said in his speech that from January 2024, “Kenya will become a visa-free nation.” This means that people from all over the world will no longer need to apply for a visa to travel to Kenya.
Maasai Mara national reserve
Do you remember Ranbir- Alia’s marriage proposal? Well, this is the very spot where the couple tied the knot. The Maasai Mara is Kenya’s premier wildlife reserve. It’s also home to the world’s largest migration, the Great Migration. Millions of wildebeests, zebras and even gazelles make their way across the savannah looking for greener pastures. The reserve is home to Kenya’s Big Five and is the perfect spot for game viewing and a hot air balloon safari.
Amboseli National Park
Mount Kilimanjaro is located at the base of Amboseli national park, which offers panoramic views of Africa’s highest peak. The national park is well-known for large herds of elephants, and visitors have the opportunity to see these magnificent animals against the backdrop of the Kilimanjaro mountain range. Bird watching is also popular in the national park, which is home to more than 400 species of birds.
Nairobi
Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, is a crossroads of culture, history and modernity. Visitors can get up close and personal with orphaned elephants at the David sheldrick wildlife trust, or feed and engage with endangered Rothschild giraffes at the Giraffe Centre. Kenya’s colonial past can be glimpsed in the Karen Blixen museum, named after the famous Danish author.
Lamu Archipelago
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of modern life and explore the ancient city of Lamu, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Archipelago of Lamu.
Lamu Island is home to the narrow winding streets of the ancient town of Lamu, which is home to some of the world’s oldest and most vibrant markets. Visitors to the archipelago can experience the rich culture of Africa, Arabia and India as it was known in the ancient Swahili language.
Mount Kenya
For those looking for an outdoor adventure, Mount Kenya delights with its snowy peaks and diverse ecosystems. Hiking enthusiasts can go on different routes, each of which offers a unique perspective on the beauty of the mountain. The surrounding Mount Kenya National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to a variety of wildlife and bird species.
Diani Beach
Kenya’s coast, along the Indian Ocean, is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Diani Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in Kenya, and it’s easy to see why. With its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, Diani Beach is a tropical paradise. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the water, but it’s also a popular destination for snorkelers, divers, and kite surfers looking for an active beach experience.