The thing is that backpacking through Kenya isn’t usually thought of as being low budget. This land of such wonderful natural beauty, fantastic wildlife, and great culture seems unreachable for people on a tight budget. But it’s completely doable to have an amazing time exploring Kenya without breaking the bank; all it takes is careful planning, flexibility, and the willingness to go off the beaten track.
As a “broke backpacker” myself, I find that the best experiences come from outside of your comfort zone and embracing the unknown. In Kenya, this might mean opting for a matatu instead of a tourist shuttle, staying in budget-friendly guesthouses or camping under the stars, and seeking out local eateries serving up delicious and affordable street food.
In this blog, I’ll be sharing my own experiences and tips for backpacking through Kenya on a broke budget. From the stunning landscapes of Hell’s Gate National Park to the vibrant streets of Nairobi, I’ll take you on a journey through the highs and lows of traveling in Kenya without a lot of money. So if you’re ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime without breaking the bank, then keep reading!
How to get there:
Kenya is a popular destination for travelers and backpackers, but getting there can be a challenge, especially for those on a tight budget. While flying is often the quickest way to reach Kenya, it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are several options for getting to Kenya using public transportation from neighboring countries.
From Tanzania
The most common route from Tanzania to Kenya is from Dar es Salaam to Nairobi. Here are the steps to follow:
- From Dar es Salaam, take a bus or taxi to the Tunduma border crossing.
- Cross the border into Kenya and take a matatu (minibus) or bus to the town of Namanga.
- From Namanga, take another matatu or bus to Nairobi.
The entire journey should take around 12-14 hours and cost approximately $10-15 USD.
From Uganda
To get to Kenya from Uganda, you can take a bus or taxi from Kampala to the Malaba border crossing.
- From Kampala, take a bus or taxi to the Malaba border crossing.
- Cross the border into Kenya and take a matatu or bus to the town of Bungoma.
- From Bungoma, take another matatu or bus to Nairobi or other destinations in Kenya.
The journey should take around 10-12 hours and cost approximately $10-15 USD.
From Ethiopia
To get to Kenya from Ethiopia, you can take a bus or taxi from Addis Ababa to the Moyale border crossing.
- From Addis Ababa, take a bus or taxi to the Moyale border crossing.
- Cross the border into Kenya and take a matatu or bus to the town of Marsabit.
- From Marsabit, take another matatu or bus to Nairobi or other destinations in Kenya.
The journey should take around 24-30 hours and cost approximately $20-30 USD.
Cheapest Places to Get Flights to Kenya
If you prefer to fly to Kenya, here are some of the cheapest places to get flights from:
- From Tanzania: Flights from Dar es Salaam to Nairobi can be found for as low as $100-150 USD return.
- From Uganda: Flights from Entebbe to Nairobi can be found for as low as $150-200 USD return.
- From Ethiopia: Flights from Addis Ababa to Nairobi can be found for as low as $200-250 USD return.
- From South Africa: Flights from Johannesburg to Nairobi can be found for as low as $300-350 USD return.
Some of the cheapest airlines to fly with include:
- Kenya Airways: Offers flights from various destinations in Africa to Kenya, often with affordable prices.
- Fastjet: Offers affordable flights from Tanzania, Uganda, and South Africa to Kenya.
- Jambojet: Offers affordable flights from Tanzania, Uganda, and Ethiopia to Kenya.
When to go:
Kenya is a year-round destination for travelers, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and what you want to do. As a broke backpacker, you’ll want to consider the weather, tourist season, and prices for accommodations and activities. Here’s a guide to help you plan your trip:
Weather and Climate
Kenya has a tropical climate with two rainy seasons:
- Long rains: March to May
- Short rains: October to December
The dry seasons, June to October and January to February, are the best times to visit Kenya if you prefer sunny weather.
Tourist Season
Kenya’s tourist season is divided into three periods:
- Peak season: June to October, with the highest demand for accommodations and tourist services.
- Shoulder season: April to May and September to November, with fewer tourists and lower prices.
- Low season: March, November, and December, with the lowest demand and prices.
Best Time for Broke Backpacking
Considering the weather, tourist season, and prices, the best time for broke backpacking in Kenya is:
- April to May: The weather is mild, and the prices for accommodations and tourist services are lower than during the peak season.
- September to November: The weather is dry, and the prices are lower than during the peak season.
Events and Festivals
Kenya has a rich cultural heritage, and attending events and festivals can be a great way to experience the local culture:
- Lake Turkana Festival: Held in May or June, this festival celebrates the culture of the Turkana people.
- Mombasa Carnival: Held in November, this carnival celebrates the culture of the coastal region.
- Jamhuri Day: Held on December 12th, this national holiday celebrates Kenya’s independence.
Best Itineraries:
3-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Nairobi
- Explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, such as Kibera and Kawangware
- Visit the National Museum and the adjacent Snake Park
- Enjoy local street food and drinks at the City Market
- Day 2: Hell’s Gate National Park
- Take a matatu (minibus) to the park
- Hike through the scenic landscapes and spot wildlife
- Camp overnight within the park
- Day 3: Lake Naivasha
- Take a matatu to Lake Naivasha
- Take a boat tour to spot hippos and birds
- Return to Nairobi in the evening
1-Week Itinerary
- Day 1-2: Nairobi
- Explore the city’s neighborhoods, museums, and markets
- Visit the nearby Karura Forest for hiking and birdwatching
- Day 3-4: Lake Nakuru National Park
- Take a matatu to the park
- Spot wildlife, including flamingos and rhinos
- Camp overnight within the park
- Day 5-6: Kisumu
- Take a matatu to Kisumu
- Explore the city’s markets and waterfront
- Visit the nearby Impala Sanctuary
- Day 7: Return to Nairobi
2-Week Itinerary
- Day 1-3: Nairobi and surrounding areas
- Explore the city’s neighborhoods, museums, and markets
- Visit the nearby Karura Forest and Hell’s Gate National Park
- Day 4-6: Lake Nakuru National Park and Lake Bogoria
- Take a matatu to the parks
- Spot wildlife, including flamingos and rhinos
- Soak in the hot springs at Lake Bogoria
- Day 7-9: Kisumu and the surrounding areas
- Explore the city’s markets and waterfront
- Visit the nearby Impala Sanctuary and Kit Mikayi rock formation
- Day 10-14: Mombasa and the coast
- Take a matatu or bus to Mombasa
- Explore the city’s old town and fort
- Relax on the beaches and take a snorkeling or diving trip
1-Month Itinerary
- Week 1: Nairobi and surrounding areas
- Explore the city’s neighborhoods, museums, and markets
- Visit the nearby Karura Forest, Hell’s Gate National Park, and Lake Naivasha
- Week 2: Lake Nakuru National Park, Lake Bogoria, and Kisumu
- Take a matatu to the parks
- Spot wildlife, including flamingos and rhinos
- Soak in the hot springs at Lake Bogoria
- Explore the city’s markets and waterfront
- Week 3: Mombasa and the coast
- Take a matatu or bus to Mombasa
- Explore the city’s old town and fort
- Relax on the beaches and take a snorkeling or diving trip
- Week 4: Lamu Island and the northern coast
- Take a bus or matatu to Lamu Island
- Explore the island’s historic town and beaches
- Take a dhow trip to the nearby islands and reefs
3-Month Itinerary
Month 1: Nairobi, Central Highlands, and Lake Victoria
- Explore the city’s neighborhoods, museums, and markets
- Visit the nearby Karura Forest, Hell’s Gate National Park, and Lake Naivasha
- Take a matatu or bus to the Central Highlands and explore the towns and markets
- Visit the shores of Lake Victoria and take a boat trip
Month 2: Western Kenya and the coast
- Take a matatu or bus to Kisumu and explore the city’s markets and waterfront
- Visit the nearby Impala Sanctuary and Kit Mikayi rock formation
- Take a matatu or bus to Mombasa and explore the city’s old town and fort
- Relax on the beaches and take a snorkeling or diving trip
Month 3: Northern Kenya and the Ethiopian border
- Take a matatu or bus to the northern town of Marsabit
- Explore the town’s markets and take a trip to the nearby Lake Turkana
- Visit the Ethiopian border and take a trip to the nearby towns and markets
6-Month Itinerary
Month 1: Nairobi, Central Highlands, and Lake Victoria
- Explore Nairobi’s neighborhoods, museums, and markets
- Visit the nearby Karura Forest, Hell’s Gate National Park, and Lake Naivasha
- Take a matatu or bus to the Central Highlands and explore the towns and markets
- Visit the shores of Lake Victoria and take a boat trip
Month 2: Western Kenya and the coast
- Take a matatu or bus to Kisumu and explore the city’s markets and waterfront
- Visit the nearby Impala Sanctuary and Kit Mikayi rock formation
- Take a matatu or bus to Mombasa and explore the city’s old town and fort
- Relax on the beaches and take a snorkeling or diving trip
Month 3: Northern Kenya and the Ethiopian border
- Take a matatu or bus to the northern town of Marsabit
- Explore the town’s markets and take a trip to the nearby Lake Turkana
- Visit the Ethiopian border and take a trip to the nearby towns and markets
- Explore the scenic landscapes and spot wildlife in the northern reserves
Month 4: Eastern Kenya and the Tsavo National Parks
- Take a matatu or bus to the eastern town of Voi
- Explore the Tsavo East and West National Parks
- Spot wildlife, including elephants, lions, and giraffes
- Take a trip to the nearby Taita Hills and explore the scenic landscapes
Month 5: Coastal towns and islands
- Take a matatu or bus to the coastal town of Malindi
- Explore the town’s historic center and beaches
- Take a trip to the nearby Watamu Marine National Park
- Visit the islands of Lamu and Manda and explore their historic towns and beaches
Month 6: Return to Nairobi and exploration of surrounding areas
- Return to Nairobi and explore any areas you missed on your first visit
- Take a trip to the nearby Aberdare National Park
- Explore the scenic landscapes and spot wildlife
- Reflect on your experiences and prepare for your next adventure
Transportation:
Kenya is a vast and beautiful country, with a well-developed public transportation system. As a broke backpacker, navigating Kenya’s public transportation can be a fun and affordable way to see the country. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about public transportation in Kenya, including hitchhiking.
Matatus (Minibuses)
Matatus are the most common form of public transportation in Kenya. They’re small, privately-owned minibuses that operate on fixed routes, picking up and dropping off passengers along the way.
- How to use: Simply flag down a matatu on the side of the road, or go to a designated matatu stage. Tell the conductor where you’re going, and they’ll let you know if they’re heading in that direction.
- Cost: Fares vary depending on the route and distance, but expect to pay around KES 50-200 (approximately $0.50-$2 USD) for a short journey.
- Safety: Matatus can be crowded and chaotic, so be prepared to squeeze in and hold on tight. Also, be mindful of your belongings, as pickpocketing can be a problem.
Buses
Buses are a more comfortable and reliable option than matatus, but they’re also more expensive.
- How to use: Go to a designated bus station or stage, and buy a ticket from the bus company. Show your ticket to the conductor when you board.
- Cost: Fares vary depending on the route and distance, but expect to pay around KES 500-1,500 (approximately $5-$15 USD) for a long journey.
- Safety: Buses are generally safer than matatus, but still be mindful of your belongings.
Trains
Kenya’s train network is limited, but it’s a scenic and comfortable way to travel.
- How to use: Go to a designated train station, and buy a ticket from the train company. Show your ticket to the conductor when you board.
- Cost: Fares vary depending on the route and class, but expect to pay around KES 1,000-3,000 (approximately $10-$30 USD) for a long journey.
- Safety: Trains are generally safe, but still be mindful of your belongings.
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking is a great way to meet locals and see the countryside, but it’s not always reliable.
- Safety: Hitchhiking can be unpredictable, so be cautious and trust your instincts. Avoid hitchhiking at night or in isolated areas.
- How to use: Stand on the side of the road, and stick out your thumb. When a vehicle stops, ask the driver where they’re headed, and if they can give you a ride.
- Cost: Free, but consider offering the driver some money for fuel or snacks.
Top things to do:
Nairobi Area
- Explore Nairobi’s neighborhoods: Visit the vibrant neighborhoods of Kibera, Kawangware, and Eastleigh.
- National Museum: Learn about Kenya’s history and culture at this world-class museum.
- Karura Forest: Hike and bike through this beautiful forest, just outside Nairobi.
- Hell’s Gate National Park: Take a day trip to this unique park, where you can hike and bike among wildlife.
- Giraffe Centre: Visit this centre and feed the giraffes.
- Karen Blixen Museum: Learn about the life and works of the famous author Karen Blixen.
- Nairobi National Park: Take a day trip to this park and spot wildlife, including lions, leopards, and rhinos.
- City Market: Explore this bustling market and try some local food.
- Kangemi Market: Visit this market and try some local fruits and vegetables.
- Uhuru Gardens: Relax in these beautiful gardens and enjoy the scenery.
Central Highlands
- Aberdare National Park: Explore the scenic landscapes and spot wildlife in this beautiful park.
- Mount Kenya National Park: Take a hike or climb to the summit of Africa’s second-highest mountain.
- Thompson Falls: Visit this beautiful waterfall, just outside Nyahururu.
- Lake Naivasha: Take a boat tour of the lake and spot hippos and birds.
- Lake Elementaita: Visit this beautiful lake and spot flamingos and other birds.
- Menengai Crater: Take a hike down into this massive crater, just outside Nakuru.
- Lake Nakuru National Park: Take a day trip to this park and spot wildlife, including flamingos and rhinos.
- Kerio Valley: Explore this scenic valley and spot wildlife, including elephants and lions.
- Tugen Hills: Take a hike through these beautiful hills and enjoy the scenery.
- Lake Baringo: Take a boat tour of the lake and spot hippos and birds.
Lake Victoria
- Kisumu Impala Sanctuary: Spot impalas and other wildlife in this scenic sanctuary.
- Kit Mikayi rock formation: Explore this unique rock formation, just outside Kisumu.
- Lake Victoria boat tour: Take a boat tour of the lake and spot hippos and birds.
- Rusinga Island: Take a day trip to this scenic island and spot wildlife, including hippos and birds.
- Mfangano Island: Visit this beautiful island and spot wildlife, including crocodiles and birds.
- Takawiri Island: Take a day trip to this scenic island and spot wildlife, including hippos and birds.
- Kisumu Museum: Learn about the history and culture of the region at this museum.
- Dunga Hill Camp: Take a hike up this hill and enjoy the scenic views.
- Lwang’ni Beach: Relax on this beautiful beach and enjoy the scenery.
- Kendu Bay: Visit this scenic bay and spot wildlife, including hippos and birds.
Coastal Area
- Mombasa Old Town: Explore the historic streets and buildings of Mombasa’s Old Town.
- Fort Jesus: Visit this historic fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Diani Beach: Relax on this beautiful beach, just outside Mombasa.
- Wasini Island: Take a day trip to this scenic island, known for its dolphin watching and snorkeling.
- Lamu Island: Visit this historic island and explore its narrow streets and ancient buildings.
- Malindi: Explore this historic town and visit the nearby Vasco da Gama Pillar.
- Watamu Marine National Park: Take a snorkeling or diving trip to this beautiful park.
- Tsavo East National Park: Take a day trip to this park and spot wildlife, including elephants and lions.
- Tsavo West National Park: Take a day trip to this park and spot wildlife, including rhinos and cheetahs.
- Shimoni: Visit this scenic village and take a boat tour to the nearby Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park.
Northern Kenya
- Lake Turkana: Take a boat tour of the lake and spot crocodiles and birds.
- Marsabit National Park: Explore the scenic landscapes and spot wildlife in this beautiful park.
- Sibiloi National Park: Visit this unique park, known for its fossil discoveries and scenic landscapes.
- Loiyangalani: Visit this small town on the shores of Lake Turkana and explore
Food:
Kenyan cuisine is a blend of traditional dishes with influences brought about by the cultural diversity and geographical location of this country. As a backpacker on a broke budget, you will be impressed to realize that eating in Kenya can be very affordable and delicious. From the busy streets of Nairobi to the coastal towns of Mombasa and Malindi, the aroma of local food wafts through the air, enticing your taste buds and tempting your wallet.
Meal times in Kenya are very social affairs with family and friends getting together, sharing stories and enjoying a meal. You’ll find yourself being invited as a traveler to share in such experiences, sharing a plate of ugali and sukuma wiki with your new-found friends. Ugali is a staple made from either cornmeal or cassava flour, normally served with a variety of stews and sauces. These include sukuma wiki, a flavorful mix of greens and sometimes meat or beans.
As you explore Kenya’s culinary landscape, you’ll find a rich array of regional specialties and local favorites. In Nairobi, try some nyama choma, a popular dish of roasted meat-usually goat or beef-served with a side of kachumbari, a spicy tomato and onion relish. In the coastal towns, indulge in fresh seafood such as lobster, crab, and fish, often grilled or fried and served with coconut rice or chapati.
One of the joys of eating in Kenya is the freshness of the fruits and vegetables available at the markets and along the roadside stalls of the country. From mangoes, pineapples, and papayas, you will enjoy some delicious fruits; from spinach to kale, the greens are a lot in local dishes. These fresh ingredients, in a general view, will remain a cheap option for you-a broke backpacker-with all items costing less than eating at a restaurant.
In addition to great food, Kenya is also renowned for its tea and coffee grown locally and enjoyed across the country. As you travel, be sure to try some of the local tea and coffee, which is often served at social gatherings and mealtimes. Chai, a spiced tea, is a particular favorite and is often enjoyed with a snack or meal.
So as a poor backpacker, it should excite you to understand that in Kenya, it’s really quite cheap; it ranges from KES 50 upwards, which goes for about $0.50. Street food and market places abound with tasty but inexpensive eats: roast corn, boiled eggs, and fried doughnuts are all part and parcel. For a fuller meal, try the low-budget restaurant or canteen that has more substantial options and will give a filling meal starting at KES 200-500 (approximately $2-5 USD).
When having lunch at any local restaurant or canteen, do not forget to taste some of the important dishes that include ugali, sukuma wiki, and nyama choma. Usually, they are served with vegetables or salad and are a wonderful way to experience the local culture. Do not be worried about trying new things, and ask for recommendations.
Apart from the local restaurants and canteens, Kenya also has a number of food stalls and street markets. These stalls offer a wide range of delicious and affordable options, including roasted corn, boiled eggs, and fried doughnuts. Make sure to try some of the local snacks, such as mandazi, which is fried doughnut, and viazi karai, which is fried potato cakes.
At the local market, you should always bargain and negotiate for the prices of food. This is a common practice in Kenya, and it may get you the best value for your money. If the price is not right, don’t be afraid to walk away; this can often prompt the vendor to lower the price.
In the end, Kenyan food truly reflects the cultural diversity and geographical location of the country. With its rich flavors, aromas, and textures, Kenyan cuisine is a gastronomic journey that will keep you wanting more. As a broke backpacker, you’ll appreciate the affordability and accessibility of Kenya’s food scene, which offers a wide range of delicious and affordable options to suit every taste and budget.
Whether it’s trying traditional dishes like ugali and sukuma wiki or indulging in fresh seafood and local snacks, Kenya’s food scene will be sure to delight and inspire you. So why not take a culinary journey through Kenya and discover the flavors and aromas of this incredible country?
Culture:
Kenyan culture is a rich and varied tapestry of traditional practices, customs, and beliefs. Kenya, with more than 40 ethnic groups, each with their own unique cultural heritage, is a country deeply entrenched in tradition yet embracing modernity. From the bustling streets of Nairobi to the rural villages of the countryside, Kenyan culture is alive and living in the everyday activities of life.
In Kenya, community is at the heart of everything. Family and friends are highly valued, and social relationships are often built on a foundation of respect, trust, and loyalty. When interacting with Kenyans, it’s not uncommon to be greeted with a warm smile and a firm handshake, followed by a series of questions about your family, your job, and your interests. This is not just a formality, but a genuine expression of interest and a desire to build a connection with you.
What distinguishes Kenyan culture from the rest is the feature of “ubuntu” or “ujamaa,” literally translated to “humanity towards others.” This philosophy has emphasized community, mutual respect, and cooperation; it is also mirrored in many social and cultural practices that form part and parcel of Kenyan life. For instance, there are many rural communities in the country where neighbors make it a point to come together and help one another whenever any harvesting, building, or preparation for certain occasions is required. Music and dance are also part of Kenyan culture, and the various ethnic groups have different ways and traditions regarding them. From the energetic drumming and dancing of the Maasai to the soulful melodies of the Luo, music and dance are a powerful means of expression, storytelling, and bringing people together. Music and dance also feature prominently in daily life for many communities, where people often come together to sing, dance, and socialize.
Traditional and cultural practices also run deep within Kenyan culture, and all ethnic groups have unique ways in which they go about certain practices. The Maasai people, for example, have very complex initiation, where transitions in life are important to observe, such as from childhood into adulthood. In many ways, the Kikuyu people have a strong storytelling culture, where the elders will often hold court, telling stories and sharing their cultures with their juniors.
In the last couple of decades, Kenyan culture has become more influenced by modernity and globalization. Many young Kenyans are embracing Western-style music, fashion, and technology while continuing to seek ways in which to preserve and promote their traditional cultural heritage. This blending of old and new is reflected in the many cultural festivals and events taking place throughout the country, which celebrate Kenya’s rich cultural diversity and foster cross-cultural understanding and exchange.
Despite the many challenges and complexities of modern life, Kenyan culture is still strong: a source of identity, community, and inspiration. Take in the bustling streets of Nairobi, rural village visits, and cultural festivals, and Kenyan culture promises to leave an indelible mark. Hospitality in Kenya is a high virtue; you will be welcomed with great warmth by most locals. It would also be a good gesture of appreciation to carry some little token such as a bottle of wine or a basket of fruit if visiting the Kenyan homes. If the opportunity does allow interactions with the Kenyans themselves, one needs to remember a number of things such as: giving or receiving and eating foodstuffs are reserved for the right hand and to keep love between married persons indoors, out of the public.
The culture of Kenyans is also identified with vast artisan and craftsmanship traditions. From the Kamba with their fine wood carvings to colorful textiles, Kenyan artisans are highly regarded for the skill and creativity of their work. Be sure to seek out authentically made, local products that support the economy and foster cultural preservation whenever shopping for souvenirs.
In addition to the rich cultural heritage, Kenya boasts a vibrant and varied natural environment. From the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya to the sun-kissed beaches of the coast, Kenya’s natural beauty is a source of inspiration and wonder. When exploring Kenya’s great outdoors, be sure to respect the environment and local communities, and to follow responsible and sustainable tourism practices.
Kenyan culture thus encompasses tradition, custom, and community in a complex array. In the streets of vibrant Nairobi or rural villages, at this cultural feast of festivals, and the events that happen during every available opportunity, Kenyan culture surely isn’t going to allow the tourist to go away without leaving an everlasting impact upon his heart.
Accommodations:
For the average, broke backpacker, a more affordable and unique accommodation is generally at the top of their list. In Kenya, hostels and other affordable stays are an amazing opportunity to experience the country’s vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality on a broke budget.
When it comes to booking hostels in Kenya, the cheapest options often provide the most unique, crazy, and amazing experiences. These budget-friendly hostels are often family-run or community-based, offering a genuine glimpse into local life. By booking the cheapest options, you will often find yourself right in the middle of the community, surrounded by locals who will be eager to share stories, traditions, and their way of life.
These hostels are usually humble affairs without many frills and often with a relaxed atmosphere. It is just that-its simplicity-allows an experience more genuine and deeper. Without the distractions of fancy amenities or touristy trappings, you’ll be free to focus on the people, the culture, and the natural beauty that surrounds you.
In Kenya’s hostels, often you will be sharing rooms with fellow travelers, locals, and sometimes an odd family member or member of the local community. This communal environment creates friendships and a feeling of adventure as you will share experiences, meals, and adventures together in exploration of the surroundings.
As you make your way through the hostel scene in Kenya, expect the unexpected: impromptu jam sessions, traditional dances, or even pitching in on local community projects. These things happen, often unplanned and unscripted, out of the communal atmosphere of the hostel and the warmth of the locals.
Of course, there are also the more practical advantages of booking cheap hostels in Kenya. For one, it’s a great way to stretch your budget, allowing you to save money for more important things. like trying all the local foods, taking part in adventure activities, or simply enjoying a cold beer or two.
Moreover, most of the low-cost hostels in Kenya are equally very sustainable and responsible in tourism. By supporting a local, family-run hostel, you’re helping to inject money directly into the local economy, rather than lining the pockets of large hotel chains or tour operators.
Your trip towards the Kenya hostel scene enables you to appreciate the multifaceted cultural diversity it expresses-from vibrantly colored and patterned Maasai to the intricately done wooden pieces by Kamba, from each region and community right down to its own especial cultural heritage. By doing so in local hostels, you will get acquainted with those varied cultures via food, music, or special traditions that are shared among their guests.
Another advantage of staying in cheap hostels in Kenya is the possibility of meeting and communicating with fellow travelers. Whether you travel solo or in a group, Kenya’s hostels offer you a friendly and social place where you can share your stories, advice, and laughter with other travelers. This can often result in making new friends, traveling partners, and even further traveling plans.
In Kenya, the culture of “ubuntu” or “ujamaa” is also deeply inculcated into the hostel way of life. This is a philosophy that upholds the virtues of community, respect for one another, and cooperation; it is very well reflected in the many social and cultural practices that are part and parcel of Kenyan life. By staying in local hostels, you will get to experience this philosophy firsthand through the warmth and hospitality of the local people.
The hostels can also become an oases of comfort and familiarity as up and downs are navigated while traveling in Kenya. When you’re tired, hungry, or just plain overwhelmed, hostels can offer a nurturing and supportive environment in which you can rest, recharge, and refocus.
Conclusion: The hostels in Kenya offer something truly special, a unique and unforgettable experience to broke backpackers. Save money and local communities by booking the most budget-friendly options, and find yourself indulging in an experience that’s authentic, immersive, and memorable throughout your travel.
Nightlife:
The nightlife in Kenya is quite eclectic, with the mixture of old and new, town and country, and native and imported. From the busy streets of Nairobi to the easygoing coastal towns, the variety of Kenyan nightlife caters to every taste and style imaginable.
As the sun sets over the savannah, Kenya’s nightlife stirs. In Nairobi, the capital, nightlife is a combination of the traditional and modern: from rooftop bars and clubs to live music and cultural performances. The city’s nightlife is centered around the Westlands and Kilimani neighborhoods, where you’ll find a concentration of bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to a diverse crowd of locals and expats.
But Nairobi’s nightlife is more than just bars and clubs; it’s the people, the music, and the energy. You will often find yourself across live music from a local band playing or a DJ playing modern beats with a fusion of traditional sounds. You might also find a group of locals huddled around a makeshift bar, sharing tales and laughter over a cold beer or a shot of local moonshine. As you leave Nairobi and head out into the rest of the country, the nightlife scene shifts and evolves, reflecting the unique culture and character of each region. In the coastal towns like Mombasa and Malindi, nightlife is more laid back and beach-focused, with seafood restaurants, beach bars, and water sports. Nightlife in the rural areas, on the other hand, involves traditional cultural performances such as music and dance, community gatherings, and celebrations.
Another thing that makes nightlife in Kenya unique is the fact that it incorporates indigenous and modern aspects into one. You could find yourself dancing to a mixture of traditional and modern music or have a taste of local cuisine in a modern restaurant. This combination of old and new is what defines Kenyan culture, and this is reflected in every single aspect of the country’s nightlife.
As a visitor to Kenya, you will find that the nightlife is very accommodating and embracing. The locals are quite enthusiastic about sharing their culture and traditions with visitors, and you may often find yourself invited to a spontaneous dance party or a late-night conversation over a cold beer.
Of course, there are also some safety precautions to be aware of, as with any nightlife scene. As a visitor, it’s a good idea to take some basic precautions, such as staying in well-lit and populated areas, avoiding traveling alone at night, and being mindful of your belongings.
Of course, with all these precautions in place, Kenya’s nightlife experience is one that should not be missed. Whether you are an avid partygoer, music enthusiast, or simply love meeting new people and experiencing new things, Kenya has its unique offer. Why not come and experience it for yourself?
As you start to get into the nightlife in Kenya, you will also begin to appreciate the rich cultural diversity of the country. From the vibrant colors and patterns of the Maasai, to the intricate wood carvings of the Kamba, each region and community has its own unique cultural heritage. By being submerged in Kenya’s nightlife, you will have the opportunity to experience this cultural diversity through the music, dance, and traditions that are shared with you.
Kenya’s nightlife scene is also a great place to try local cuisine and drinks. From the spicy flavors of nyama choma to the sweet taste of local beers and cocktails, Kenya’s nightlife offers a culinary experience both delicious and unforgettable. And with many bars and restaurants offering live music and entertainment, you will often find yourself dancing and singing along to the rhythms and melodies of Kenyan music.
Kenyan nightlife has a great cultural and food attraction, but it’s also a good avenue for making new friends. Whatever kind of traveler you are- solo or in a group- night time Kenya is always welcoming and will accommodate you so that you could communicate with the locals or travelers like you.
But the real magic of Kenyan nightlife comes later in the night, when the music and laughter fill the air. This is when the cares and worries of the day are left at the door, and people come out to celebrate life, music, and community. And as a visitor to Kenya, you’re invited to join in on the fun, to experience the country’s nightlife for yourself, and to take home memories that will last a lifetime.
Backpacking Kenya costs:
Daily Expenses:
- Accommodation: KES 500-1000 ( approx. $5-10 USD) per night for a basic hostel or guesthouse
- Food: KES 200-500 (approx. $2-5 USD) per meal for local cuisine, such as ugali, sukuma wiki, and nyama choma
- Transportation: KES 50-100 (approx. $0.50-1 USD) per ride for matatus (minivans) or buses
- Activities: KES 500-1000 (approx. $5-10 USD) per person for local tours, hikes, or cultural experiences
- Total daily expenses: KES 1,250-2,600 (approx. $12-26 USD)
Weekly Expenses:
- Accommodation: KES 3,500-7,000 (approx. $35-70 USD) per week for a basic hostel or guesthouse
- Food: KES 1,400-3,500 (approx. $14-35 USD) per week for local cuisine
- Transportation: KES 350-700 (approx. $3.50-7 USD) per week for matatus or buses
- Activities: KES 2,500-5,000 (approx. $25-50 USD) per week for local tours, hikes, or cultural experiences
- Total weekly expenses: KES 8,100-16,200 (approx. $81-162 USD)
Note: These estimates are very rough and can vary depending on individual circumstances.
Conclusion:
I remember my time broke backpacking through Kenya for all of the amazing experiences and encounters that really made it so unforgettable. From the streets of Nairobi to the stunning natural beauty of the Maasai Mara, Kenya is a country of life, energy, and possibility.
Being a broke backpacker, I was somewhat intimidated by the whole idea of traveling through Kenya on a broke budget. But as I soon found out, it is very possible to have an amazing time in Kenya without breaking the bank. By staying in basic hostels and guesthouses, eating local cuisine, and using public transportation, I was able to keep my costs to a minimum and still experience all that Kenya has to offer.
Of course, there were also challenges and setbacks along the way. From navigating chaotic streets in Nairobi to dealing with the occasional scam or rip-off, there were those moments when I felt frustrated and overwhelmed. But through it all, I was constantly reminded of the kindness and generosity of the Kenyan people, who welcomed me into their homes and communities with open arms.
As I look back on my time in Kenya, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder. This is a country full of contradictions and surprises, where ancient traditions and modern realities exist side by side. It is a country that is both beautiful and challenging, exhilarating and exhausting.
But most of all, Kenya is a country full of life and energy, a place where the boundaries of cultures and communities are constantly blurred and rewritten. As a poor backpacker, I felt grateful to be part of such a vibrant and dynamic scene, even if only for a short time.
If you’re thinking about traveling to Kenya on a budget, I say do it. It won’t always be easy, and there will definitely be times when you are frustrated and overwhelmed. But the rewards will be well worth it, from the stunning natural beauty of the Maasai Mara to the vibrant energy of Nairobi’s streets. With a little bit of planning and flexibility, you can have an amazing time in Kenya without breaking the bank.
