Kenya's most extreme holiday destinations

There are many reasons why foreign tourists fall in love with Kenya. It could be the renowned wildlife, with national parks and reserves such as Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo luring them like moths to light.

It could be the pristine, award-winning beaches of Diani and Watamu, or the cultural experiences from the over 40 ethnic groups, each with its unique traditions, languages, and customs.

Nothing beats the interaction with local communities, experiencing traditional dances, music, and cuisines. That is the cool side of local travel.

Then there are the extremes, locations that offer a diverse range of thrilling experiences, from desert treks, mountain hikes, deep gorges, and white water rafting, each activity showcasing another facet unique beauty and adventure that Kenya has to offer.

They offer thrilling adventures and live to the business adage, ‘the higher the risks, the sweeter the rewards’. Could these, then, be some of Kenya’s extreme holiday destinations?

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Chalbi Desert

Before my visit to the drylands of northern Kenya, Chalbi was just another geographical feature, like the Great Rift Valley.

In fact, few Kenyans pay more than the usual attention to Kenya’s mini version of the Sahara. Straddling a large swathe of Marsabit County, Chalbi Desert is perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Its stark beauty, with endless dunes and mirages, makes for an unforgettable experience. Here, the sun blazes during the day, and the stars illuminate the night sky. And that is beautiful.

Forget your city navigational skills though. With no or poor cell phone connection in Chalbi, you will get lost, find your way, and get lost again but live to tell the story.  

Lake Turkana

It is often referred to as the “Jade Sea” for its tantalising beauty. Lake Turkana is a lake of superlatives.

It is the world’s largest permanent desert lake. Its shores host one of the world’s smallest communities—the El Molo, numbering less than a thousand. Looks, though, can be deceiving.

Some of the largest crocodiles on the planet are found here, making swimming an extreme sport. Around the lake are otherworldly landscapes, hot, dry and black volcanic rocks that would make Mars landscape a children’s playground.

Still, this remote location and striking landscapes is fodder for those looking for a unique and extreme destination.

Mount Kenya

It is Kenya’s highest peak and Africa’s second-highest. The mountain’s diverse ecosystems, ranging from lush forests to alpine-like meadows, beautiful lakes and glaciers, make it a fascinating destination for adventurers.

Climbers from all over the world have conquered the peaks and navigated through treacherous terrain and unpredictable weather. However, climbing the majestic mountain with its snow-capped summit and lush forested slopes, provides the ultimate test of endurance and determination.

Every step, every breath above 10,000 feet is a feat worth celebrating. Always follow the advice of your guide. Remember, there is no bad way of climbing any mountain, only bad gear. Get your boots ready, take a hike and enjoy the views.

 Hell’s Gate National Park

What is in a name, you may ask? The question would have been well answered by explorers Joseph Thomson and his friend Fischer (who has that eerie tower named after him).

In 1883, the two men thought the narrow break in between the cliffs deserved to be the gate to hell.

However, this spectacular piece of Kenya has some of the most dramatic landscapes, including the towering cliffs, deep gorges, and geothermal springs where Kenya is tapping the underground energy reservoirs.

Hell’s Gate is a haven for rock climbing, hiking, and biking enthusiasts. Caution though is key as these same attractions could become deadly traps for the uninitiated. Stick to the basics such as bike riding in the company of zebras, antelopes and baboons.

Tsavo East National Park

Tsavo’s story is intertwined with that of Kenya. Before Kenya became a nation, Swahili caravans crisscrossed the region searching for ivory, animal skins and slaves.

Tsavo was preferred as an alternative route to the coast as the caravans avoided traversing through the land of the dreaded Maasai. But for the Indians and their British masters who chose to build the Uganda Railway through the region, Tsavo, became a story of toil, pain and death.

Here, two ‘man-eating’ lions made a mockery of the construction work as they raided the camps at will, killing and devouring the terrified workers. The descendants of the ‘man-eaters’ are still around. The harsh conditions still exist. But Tsavo still has that ancient allure as the ultimate safari destination.

White water rafting in Sagana

Picture four to eight grownups in an inflatable rubber raft moving fast through the white waters in Sagana. They scream their lungs out as the raft plunges 40 feet into the wild waters. It is sheer adventure.

White water rafting is an exciting and exhilarating adventure that combines the beauty of nature with the rush of navigating turbulent rivers. Powerful currents, crashing waves, and sudden drops provide an adrenaline-pumping experience.

It also takes a person through stunning landscapes, offering unique views that are often inaccessible by other means. But beware: While the sport is handled by trained professionals, there could be hidden dangers such as colliding with rocks or logs hidden below the surface.

Always follow the safety rules like wearing a fitting safety jacket, being attentive to safety briefings, and following the instructions of your guide while in the water.

Remember, Rapids Camp in Sagana has in the past hosted the first ever Africa Olympic Canoe qualifier and Kayaking championship in with over 16 African countries participating. You should be safe.