Kenya Towns, Cities, Locations and Districts

(Kenya, KE, East Africa)



Nairobi skyline pictureKenya attracts huge numbers of visitors every year. Many come for the ultimate 'Out of Africa' experience afforded by its dramatic East African scenery and abundant wildlife. Others simply want to relax in the warm waters of its plentiful Indian Ocean coastal resorts, or to explore the fascinating heritage preserved within Kenya's many towns and villages.

For most visitors, the two largest cities, Nairobi and Mombasa, offer their first glimpse of this fascinating country. Both of these cities serve as leading African tourist destinations and are packed with attractions.


Further photo showing high-rise buildings in Nairobi

Nairobi

Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya and indeed, the largest city in East Africa. In recent years, Nairobi has left some of its 'frontier town' atmosphere behind, transforming itself into a lively cosmopolitan city that has a great deal to offer its visitors, besides being the gateway to a Kenyan safari adventure.

More information about Nairobi.


Mombasa aerial view

Mombasa

Mombasa is Kenya's largest port and second-largest city. The place has a distinct appeal for most visitors, whatever their interests. As well as having an interesting old town district with Arab-style architecture, Mombasa is also home to Fort Jesus, which dates back to the 16th century. Lapped by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, the town's sandy beaches are a big draw for families, water sports enthusiasts and fishers. When the sun goes down, Mombasa really comes to life, with plenty in the way of entertainment at the city's restaurants, night clubs, cinemas and casinos.

Kisumu city photograph

Kisumu

Located on the shores of Lake Victoria, Kisumu is a relatively ordinary Kenyan city. Once a bustling port and originally known as Port Florence, Kisumu is located on the Kavirondo Gulf of Lake Victoria. As well as the lake itself, the city's other attractions include a thriving market, Hippo Point, Impala Park and the Kisumu Museum.

Shoreline view of Lamu

Lamu

Lamu is the oldest surviving town in Kenya, founded by Swahili settlers in the 14th century. Its location on the picturesque and very peaceful Lamu Island transformed the town into a popular hippy destination back in the 1960s. Today, it is still a must-see destination for carefree backpackers. The narrow winding streets and squares of the old town are perfect to explore at a lazy pace, or alternatively you can simply relax on the waterfront. Other attractions include Lamu Fort, Riyadha Mosque and a donkey sanctuary.

Malindi picture

Malindi

Maldini is situated some 100 km / 62 miles north of Mombasa, along the Kenyan coast. The town itself is a pleasant place to explore, with several interesting mosques and a lively market. A few casinos and nightclubs have been built to meet the needs of Malindi's visitors. The most notable of the town's monuments is the 15th-century Pillar of Vasco da Gama, which is made from local coral and stands guard over the bay. Nearby, the Gedi Ruins are a major draw for tourists to the town, as is the Malindi Marine National Park.

Lake Nakuru image

Nakuru

Nakuru is a fairly large town situated amidst the Lake Nakuru National Park.

Its location makes it a good base for visits to the park, as well as the nearby Menengai Crater and the Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site.