When you hear the word “Kenya”, it’s likely your brain instantly picture lions roaming freely, wide savannahs, and an old Land Rover bumping along dry tracks. And while those images aren’t entirely wrong, they hardly begin to describe what Kenya has to show. Better yet, many people cling to long-outdated (and simply flat-out false) notions about this East African treasure – from safety issues to climate myths. So, if you’ve been kicking the idea of booking a trip to Kenya, it’s time to debunk some of the most widespread myths about this country.
5 Common Myths About Kenya: We’ve Busted Them For You!
Safaris Are Unsafe and Costly
Let’s begin with the elephant in the room. The term “safari” perhaps brings to mind images of peril – lions stalking around your tent, jeeps derailing out in the middle of nowhere, and exorbitant expenses burning a hole in your wallet. Reality check? Not even close.
Kenyan safaris are some of the safest and most organized tourist experiences globally. National parks such as the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo follow strict safety protocols. You’ll be with expert guides who know the ground (and the animals) quite well! And besides, lodges and camps are securely fenced, and animals are more afraid of you than vice versa!
As for cost, of course, there are high-end options that appeal to those willing to splurge, but there are also affordable safari options that represent great value. Group safaris, conservancies run by communities, and shoulder-season travel make it remarkably inexpensive to take in Kenya’s wildlife magic.
Kenya Is ‘Crime-Ridden’
This one’s regretfully a widespread stereotype, and like most stereotypes, it’s inaccurate and unfair.
Yes, Kenya, like all countries (including yours), has some neighborhoods with higher crime rates. But that doesn’t mean that the entire nation is dangerous. The majority of tourist destinations – Nairobi, Mombasa, and national parks among them – are safe to visit, provided you observe simple travel safety precautions. Keep your valuables close and avoid dark places at night just as you would do in any other major city in the world.
On the contrary, Kenyan locals are known for their hospitality and friendly nature. One hears of strangers’ kindness, co-operative guides, and locals who go out of their way to welcome you. A smile and a bit of respect for the culture take you a long way.
There’s Nothing More to Kenya Than Safaris
This stings because Kenya has so much more to offer than wildlife (though the wildlife is admittedly awesome).
Let’s begin with the coast – have you heard of Diani Beach? With its turquoise waters and white sands, it’s like something straight out of a honeymoon brochure. There’s snorkeling, scuba diving, kite surfing, or just chilling out with a cold Tusker beer and coconut fish curry. Lamu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has ancient Swahili architecture, narrow alleys, and a glimpse into Kenya’s coastal way of life.
Then there’s also Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest mountain, ideal for trekking. There are also tea plantations in Kericho, Nairobi markets, peaceful lakes in Naivasha and Nakuru, and cultural experiences in towns such as Kisumu and Eldoret. So, of course, there’s more to Kenya than just safaris!
Kenyans Speak African
Alright, let’s get this straight once and for all – there is no such language as ‘African’. This stereotype is not only silly, it is downright ignorant and harmful! Africa is a continent, not a nation, and it is inhabited by thousands of languages. In fact, Kenya alone has more than 60 indigenous languages!
But English and Swahili (Kiswahili) are the official languages in Kenya, widely used and understood. You’ll find it easy to move around as a tourist, particularly if you use English. And who knows, picking up some Swahili greetings such as Jambo (hello), Asante (thank you), and Karibu (welcome) will win you smiles and perhaps even some friends.
In cities and tourist spots, everyone is used to being multilingual and easily switches back and forth between languages. So, no need to worry, you won’t have to download a dozen translation apps before your trip.
It’s Always Hot in Kenya
Guess what? Kenya is not one big oven year-round.
Due to its diverse geography and elevation, Kenya has varied climate conditions. Nairobi, for example, has an elevation of close to 6,000 feet and pleasant, spring-like weather for most of the year. It can be quite chilly in early mornings and late evenings, particularly during the wet season.
If you’re heading to higher altitudes like Mount Kenya or the Aberdare ranges, be prepared for chilly nights and even frost. On the flip side, areas like the coast (Mombasa, Diani) tend to be warm and humid – perfectly tropical weather!
So don’t make the rookie mistake of only packing summer clothes. Bring layers, especially if you’re going on an early morning game drive or planning to explore the mountains.
Summing Up
Kenya is one of those nations that will surprise you at every turn. However, the misconceptions regarding safety, language, climate, and expense too often discourage visitors from enjoying the enchantment that exists beyond the stereotypes. So if you’ve been hesitant to add Kenya to your travel list, consider this your sign. And to be honest, Hakuna Matata, our dear friends!
