Cultural Tourism in Kenya

Finished your mission? Dive into cultural tourism in Kenya. From Lamu’s history to Nairobi’s museums, discover how to travel with purpose.

DISCOVER

History and Culture in Kenya

For many who come to East Africa, the journey begins with a “Harambee” spirit—pulling together for a cause. Whether you’ve spent months teaching in Nakuru or weeks on a medical mission in Turkana, there comes a moment when the work ends and the reflection begins.

The trend of cultural tourism in Kenya has evolved. Travelers are no longer just looking for a “Big Five” safari; they are seeking a deeper understanding of the 44+ ethnic groups and the centuries of history that shaped this “Cradle of Mankind.”

THE GREAT RIFT VALLEY

Ancestry and Origins

If your volunteering took you to the rural highlands, the Rift Valley offers a chance to look back even further. into the history of our species.

Kariandusi Prehistoric Site: Near Lake Elementaita, you can stand where early humans made hand axes over 200,000 years ago.

The Bomas of Kenya: Located in Nairobi but representing the whole country, the Bomas offer a “compressed” cultural experience. While some find it touristy, for a post-volunteer, it provides a valuable birds-eye view of the traditional homesteads (Manyattas, Chonyis, etc.) of the groups you may not have visited during your mission.