Visiting Kenya is a chance to not only get to see some wildlife but one of, if not, the most beautiful African landscapes. The ever-changing, vast reserves are home to a huge variety of animals. The Masai Mara is the most popular reserve in Kenya and is home to the largest population of lions and cheetahs outside of Africa. The reserve is also home to black rhinos, giraffes, hippos, and zebra. The reserve is a photographer’s dream, and hiking safaris can be booked.

Below is a list of ten incredible Kenyan facts to know before you visit.

Number 10.  Kenya is the world’s leading safari destination

Kenya was recognized three years in a row as the World’s Leading Safari Destination at the 2017 World Travel Awards.

Number 9.  Some of the most famous long-distance runners are Kenyans

Every Marathon in the world will have several Kenyans participating, and they are very likely to win. Kenyans have produced some of the most famous and successful long-distance runners in history. 

Number 8. The first African woman to win a Nobel peace prize was a Kenyan

In 2004, Wangari Maathai became the first African woman to win a Nobel peace prize. Sadly, she passed away in cancer in 2011. But she will always be remembered.

Number 7. It is home to the Maasai Mara

The Big Five, also known as Lions, Elephants, Leopards, Rhinos, and Cape Buffalo, live in Kenya. A yearly wildebeest migration from Serengeti National Park takes place in the Maasai Mara.  Maasai Mara is also home to the Maasai people, known for their jumping dance and warrior skills. This is just one of many interesting facts about Kenya!

Number 6.  Coffee is the most valuable export

Kenya produces and exports more than 110,187,000 tons of coffee every year.  In fact, Kenyans prefer tea to coffee because it is so valuable for them. Domestic sales of coffee are relatively small. 

Number 5. Kenya is also home to the fastest land animal

The cheetah is the fastest moving animal on land in the world, with speeds recorded up to 120 kilometres per hour is a prominent wildlife animal in Kenya.

Number 4. There are two distinct seasons

There are two distinct seasons in the climate, namely the rainy season and the dry season. Following the rainy season, nature will be very lush and green. 

Number 3. Ugali is a staple meal

Kenya is not an exception to the Ugali tradition that is prevalent throughout East Africa. A type of maize porridge that can be served with stews, meats, and vegetables.

Number 2.  It used to be a British colony

In the 1920s and 1960s, it was part of the British Empire in Africa. Thanks to the 12th of December 1963, Kenya gained independence.

Number 1. Kenya has 536 kilometres of coastline

Although you might not think of it as a beach destination, it has some of the finest white sand beaches in the world. Along the 536-kilometre coastline, Malindi, Diani beach, and Watamu are some of the most popular beach destinations.

To sum it up, Kenya is famous for its safaris, but there’s so much more to the country. Its capital city, Nairobi, is a melting pot of cultures, with a giant lake, historic places, and restaurants serving cuisine from around the world. It’s known as “The Garden of Kenya”, and the lush city is home to amazing wildlife. Kenya is a country of contrasts, and there’s an adventure awaiting every traveller.