East Africa is full of adventure to the brim – from exploring its numerous national parks to indulging in water sports activities, you’ll find lots of amazing things to do. Its scenic landscape, diverse wildlife and beautiful beaches will leave you stunned.
Here are 20 amazing things to do in East Africa that you can’t miss:
- Observe the Big Five
The Big Five are Africa’s most sought-after species and include rhinos, leopards, lions, buffaloes and elephants. You can spot them all at Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Serengeti National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve.
- Climb Africa’s highest peak
Hike up Mount. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. On your way, you’ll discover many different ecosystems and vegetations. The views from the top are worth the climb.
- Go on an aerial safari at Tsavo National Park
Observe the wildlife and scenic views from up above at Tsavo National Park on an aerial safari!
- Check out the Great Migration
The Great Migration consist millions of wildebeests, zebras and other herbivores migrating from Serengeti to Masai Mara and back. Feel the ground tremble as they cross rivers and other obstacles looking for water and food.
- Adopt an orphaned elephant
Head over to the Sheldrick Widlife Trust in Nairobi and sponsor an orphaned elephant!
- View the sunset on a dhow cruise
Explore the Indian Ocean and watch the beautiful sunset with your significant other.
- Go on a Hot Air Balloon Safari
Get a bird’s eye view of East Africa’s popular national parks like Serengeti NP and Masai Mara National Park. Indulge in a celebratory lunch afterward!
- Eat delicious Swahili food
East Africa is home to the delicious Swahili cuisine consisting of pilau, biryani, ugali, mandazi, nyama choma, mishkaki and many other dishes. Savor them while you’re there!
- Explore Prison Island
Prison Island is a safe haven for giant sea turtles. Watch them hatch and grow!
- Check out the world’s coldest active volcano
Ol Doinyo Lengai is an active volcano that emits the coldest lava in the world. This is also the reason its lava is black instead of the typical reddish-brown color!
- Go snorkeling and scuba diving in the Indian Ocean
The Indian Ocean awaits you with abundant coral reefs, diverse marine life and interesting shipwrecks. Zanzibar contains many beaches that offer the best snorkeling and scuba diving programs!
- Explore the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, the Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater is a masterpiece of nature. Standing by the rim of the crater while looking into its beauty and endless wildlife species is a breath-taking and overwhelming experience.
- Go on a spice tour
Zanzibar is also known as Spice Island owing to the numerous spices produced here. Go on a spice tour and learn more about how each spice is grown and cultivated!
- Stay on a private East African Island
Thanda island and Mnemba Island are some of the most luxurious private islands in the Indian Ocean where you’ll find peace, privacy and everything else you need for a luxurious experience.
- Attend a full moon party at Kendwa Rocks
Dance the night away at Kendwa Rocks’ full moon party that takes place every month in Kendwa, Zanzibar.
- Check out volcanos and crocodiles at Lake Turkana’s Central Island National Park
Central Island National Park is known for its huge Nile crocodile population along with volcanoes and rivers. Explore this gem of an island!
- Observe flamingoes at Lake Nakuru
Lake Nakuru is home to thousands of beautiful flamingoes that paint the lake with hues of pink. It’s a stunning sight to observe!
- Feed giraffes at Nairobi’s Giraffe Center
Bond with some giraffes at Nairobi’s Giraffe Center. They’re completely harmless and fun to be around!
- Check out tree-climbing lions at Lake Manyara NP
A sight you’re barely ever going to see elsewhere – lions sitting on top of trees and climbing them like beautiful felines. Make sure to visit this beautiful national park.
- Go chimpanzee tracking
Mahale Mountains National Park and Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania offer chimpanzee tracking which is fun and exciting!
So, what are you waiting for? Head over to East Africa and have a great time exploring the beautiful countries there! While you’re there, don’t forget to check out these Five Must Do’s in Kenya.
