6 Breathtaking Road Trip Destinations In Kenya You Must Explore

A road trip from Kenya is one of the most popular safari activities in the world. Kenya is a beautiful country that is well-known for its animals, vast national parks, rich culture, diverse landscapes, picturesque views, and adventurous activities.

As you learn more about the location and the country's natural beauty, road-tripping is an excellent option for adventure-seeking travelers who love the open road to explore everything it has to offer. To learn about the top road trip destinations in Kenya, keep reading this article.

Nairobi is always included as a safari stop on any itinerary that travels through Kenya. Visitors may see the city's many attractions as well as the breathtaking scenery and exciting adventures that lie far beyond.

Because of this, here are a few amazing road trip ideas in Kenya that start in Nairobi. Feel free to adjust according to your starting position.

Top Road Trip Destinations In Kenya From Nairobi

For tourists looking for adventure, cultural immersion, and scenic beauty, road trip destinations in Kenya offer a variety of activities. Kenya is a popular destination for scenic drives because of its untamed mountains, savannahs teeming with wildlife, thick forests, tranquil beaches, and charming locations. The East African country has drawn a lot of domestic and international tourists because of its distinctive landscapes, and road trips have emerged as the ideal way to spend a vacation.

From Nairobi to Lake Naivasha

It is an ideal choice for anyone looking for a quick road trip outside of the capital. This day-long drive offers expansive views of the Great Rift Valley from locations like Mathore Viewpoint. From this vantage point, you can see the valley floor, which is divided by a number of lakes and active and dormant volcanoes, as well as the enormous system of ridges or escarpments that makes up one of Kenya's most breathtaking landscapes.

From Nairobi, go about 50 km (30 miles) and make a stop at the Traveler's Chapel, also known as the Mai Mahiu Church. One of the smallest buildings in the world is this little stone Catholic church that was constructed in 1942 by Italian prisoners of war. Soon after the church, keep an eye out for the vibrant "Welcome to Nakuru County" sign, which is a popular photo opportunity with its map of Africa and distance markers.

From Nairobi to Lake Naivasha

Take a trip to Kisumu

This is the best road trip in Kenya for Great Rift Valley views. For a stunning drive across western Kenya, with views of the northern Great Rift Valley along the way, head northwest from Nairobi to Lake Nakuru and then to the lake city of Kisumu.

You can fill up on snacks and beverages at Kericho, which is traversed by the Nairobi–Naivasha Highway, Safari lodges, and beaches can also be found here.

Once you arrive in Kisumu, which is located on the northeastern shore of Lake Victoria, take some time to explore the market, take in the sunsets, and experience the laid-back vibes of this port town.

Take a trip to Kisumu

From Nairobi to Lake Magadi

This is one of the cheap road trips in Kenya. Head south to Lake Magadi, Kenya's "pink lake," if you do not want to go far from Nairobi but would prefer a fulfilling adventure with a stunning lakeside finale.

For lunch, try the Nyama Choma restaurant at Olepolos Country Club, which is about an hour's drive from Nairobi.

Drive on via traditional villages and acacia trees to Lake Magadi, a soda lake that is frequented by wading birds such as flamingos. Either pack a picnic or eat lunch at the Lake Magadi Sports Club and Tented Camp. Safari tents and cozy accommodations are your options if you want to spend the night.

From Nairobi to Lake Magadi

Get into the wonderful outdoors at Mt Kenya

As you travel north from the city into Mt. Kenya National Park for hiking, climbing, and wild camping, take in the panorama as it changes from urban sprawl to verdant farmland. You'll pass Thika town; make sure to stop by the roadside stands and buy some local pineapples.

The equator sign immediately before you reach Nanyuki town is a well-liked halt; it is impossible to avoid taking a selfie there. The bustling town of Nanyuki, which serves as the entry point to Mount Kenya, is a great spot to get grilled corn, nyama choma (goat meat), and other snacks. This is one of the best road trips in Kenya for travelers.

Get into the wonderful outdoors at Mt Kenya

On the road to Lake Turkana

Lake Turkana is one of the best road trip destinations in Kenya if you’re looking for a place to go on a road Kenya safari tour this weekend. From Nairobi, it takes around six hours to reach Samburu National Reserve, 300km (185 miles) away, where a night in a tented camp offers the chance to enjoy the riverside setting. A shorter drive (four to five hours) on day two takes you to Marsabit National Park, an unexpected patch of green amid the desert, and home to an extinct volcano. Spend a night at Kalacha on the edge of the Chalbi Desert (around four hours from Marsabit). Basic Kalacha Camp is a great place to experience the solitude and desert landscapes before embarking on the eight-hour drive to Loiyangalani on Lake Turkana’s eastern shores.

The highlight is strolling across Lake Turkana's "Jade Sea," which is home to migrating birds, hippos, and crocs. A small community, the El Molo tribe, lives in this area as well. They brave the crocodile-infested waters to fish for a living.

On the road to Lake Turkana

Desert adventures to Samburu

Among road trip destinations in Kenya, it's a good way to experience the diversity of Kenya's landscapes and how they shift from lush to desert and mountainous. You can go for a long time without seeing another car in Samburu, which is an amazing wilderness.

Stop off in the hill-surrounded village of Isiolo, which is well-known for its sizable market. For captivating views of the urban sprawl from the rooftop, visit the bell chamber of the Catholic Church. Continue up to the Samburu villages near Archers Post or toward Ngurunit, which is northwest of Samburu reserve and at the base of Mount Poi. After that, spend a few days in the national park, which is well-known for its "Special Five" of wildlife.

Desert adventures to Samburu

Tips For Driving In Kenya

The majority of Kenya's main roads are in decent shape; however, there are also several unpaved and sometimes potholed roads. If you are unsure, ask the automobile rental company to make sure you are renting wheels that are appropriate for the terrain you intend to traverse. Understanding basic auto maintenance is helpful since, if you are in a remote location, breakdown assistance may take a while.

Driving in Kenya is not for the timid, and the traffic laws can be unpredictable. Even on single-lane mountain roads, there is a good amount of passing, and truck traffic can build up.

Due to inadequate street illumination, unpredictable road conditions, and criminal activity like carjacking, it is advisable to drive during the day for safety reasons. For the most recent information on particular areas, see your government's travel advisory, and upon arriving, request the most recent information from the automobile rental business.

Conclusion

Road journeys are among the best safari experiences you can have anywhere in the world, and many people do them. Kenya is one of the fantastic places where road trips may be taken. 

When you drive, you see a lot more of the country, choose your own schedule, and are likely to find some undiscovered treasures off the usual tourist routes, which provide for private safari experiences.

Before you set off on your big road trip across Kenya, it's key to check your visa requirements. Many who travel will need a Kenya eTA, which is a fast and easy way to enter the country. You don't have to wait in long lines at the airport or at embassies; you can sign up online in just a short time. Our site, Kenya Immigration Services, helps make it even easier by giving you step-by-step help, checking your form for any errors, and giving full support to make sure you get your visa fast.

By applying for your Kenya eTA through us, you’ll enjoy a stress-free experience, expert assistance, and timely updates on your application status. We help travelers avoid common mistakes that could lead to rejection, saving you time and frustration.