Lonely Planet Kenya Travel Book Review

Last Updated: March 25, 2025

Tweet

Key Takeaways

Section	What's Inside?
Review of Section 1: Plan Your Trip	Contains itineraries, practical tips, and immersive stories guiding you from the very start of your trip.
Review of Section 2: The Guide	Coverages of Kenya’s varied regions and cities, highlighting must-see landmarks, cultural insights, and hidden gems.
Review of Section 3: Toolkit	Travel advice on arrival, money, safety, and more – including tips for family, solo, LGBTIQ+, and accessible travel, plus a focus on responsible tourism.
Review of Section 4: The Kenya Storybook	About Kenya’s culture and history, featuring vivid narratives, myth and legend, and local perspectives with the nation's stories.

Going on a trip to Kenya was always high on my travel bucket list, and the Lonely Planet Kenya guidebook felt like my personalized roadmap, nudging me to uncover hidden gems and iconic landscapes alike. 

Right from the opening pages, “Plan Your Trip” swiftly became my favorite section, complete with thoughtfully curated itineraries, practical insights on safari adventures, food explorations, and even when exactly to visit for that perfect, soul-stirring sunset over the Masai Mara. 

Each page gently nudged me toward adventure, whether it was savoring the bustling culinary scene of Nairobi, immersing myself in the serene beauty of Lake Turkana, or navigating the untouched trails of Mt Elgon.

What resonated with me deeply about this Lonely Planet guide was its blend of authentic storytelling with meticulous detail. Sections like "Meet the Kenyans" and "Memory, Myth & Legend" connected me to the spirit of Kenya, letting me experience the country not merely as a traveler, but as someone warmly welcomed into its rich cultural tapestry. 

Whether I was exploring bustling city neighborhoods like Kilimani and Westlands or contemplating serene escapes along Lamu’s tranquil coastline, this ultimate guidebook of traveling Kenya continually reminded me that travel is as much about experiencing places as it is about embracing their stories.

Review of Section 1: Plan Your Trip

From the very first page of Lonely Planet’s "Plan Your Trip" section, I felt the familiar thrill of anticipation, the promise of adventure, culture, and profound discovery ahead.

 I was immediately drawn into the narrative woven by Nanjala Nyabola, whose exhilarating solo motorcycle journey from Nairobi to Sibiloi National Park vividly captured Kenya’s soul-stirring magic. Her story instantly ignited my wanderlust, encouraging me not just to see Kenya but to fully immerse myself in its transformative experiences, from encountering wildlife up close in the rugged savannahs of Amboseli and Masai Mara, to contemplating history on the tranquil shores of Jumba La Mtwana.

The careful organization of this section made planning intuitive and exciting. Practical advice, like deciding between a guided safari and self-driving adventures, was balanced beautifully with inspirational highlights, including unforgettable wildlife experiences and must-visit foodie havens. The itineraries, particularly the coastal journey from vibrant Mombasa to the serene Lamu archipelago, read like personalized invitations to Kenya’s hidden corners. 

This thoughtful blend of practical wisdom and immersive storytelling transformed the task of planning into a delightful prelude, reminding me once again that the magic of travel truly begins long before the journey itself.

Review of Section 2: The Guide

The very first page of this section stated that it will cover all the hubs and surrounding areas of Kenya, it made me prepare to explore all the regions of this majestic African country. With the photo of a Leopard at the right side and the state wise breakdown of the map in Kenya aroused my excitement.

Review of Chapter: Nairobi

Before flipping open the Lonely Planet guide, I had some mixed feelings about Nairobi. Its reputation for grit and traffic chaos seemed daunting, but this chapter quickly shifted my perception, inviting me instead to see the vibrant city as Kenya’s cultural heartbeat. Lonely Planet captured Nairobi’s thrilling contradictions, from modern high-rises casting shadows on historical monuments like Macmillan Library, to the lush greenery of Karura Forest existing alongside bustling urban markets. 

I loved how the guide encouraged exploring Nairobi's CBD with a keen eye for architecture and history, nudging me to slow down, notice details, and savor local moments like haggling at the Original Maasai Market or relishing nyama choma at Kenyatta Market.

I particularly appreciated the practical itinerary recommendations that felt thoughtfully balanced, combining iconic experiences such as Nairobi National Park’s surreal urban safari with quieter, offbeat suggestions like birdwatching in Ngong Road Forest or exploring contemporary Kenyan art at Uweza Art Gallery. 

The chapter’s authentic local voices, like James Rugami’s passionate endorsement of Kenyatta Market, brought depth and warmth, reminding me again why Lonely Planet remains my trusted travel companion, it doesn’t merely list sights, it connects me to the city's living, breathing stories. By the end, I felt eager to navigate Nairobi’s frenetic energy myself, confident this city had countless adventures waiting behind its gritty exterior.

Review of Chapter: Southern Rift Valley

The Lonely Planet chapter on the Southern Rift Valley swept me up in its vivid storytelling, bringing to life a landscape sculpted by volcanoes and alive with prehistoric echoes. From the start, I was fascinated by the geological drama, how colossal tectonic shifts shaped this stunning region, leaving behind volcanic lakes, lush sanctuaries, and scenes straight from my childhood memories of The Lion King. Lake Naivasha became my immediate favorite, offering adventurous encounters like cycling alongside giraffes at Hell's Gate or drifting quietly on a boat among hippos. 

The chapter’s more immersive highlights were:

• Olkaria Geothermal Spa: Despite its pungent sulphuric odor, the spa’s comforting warmth is irresistibly appealing.
• Crescent Island & Kariandusi: Encourages a relaxed pace for bonding with nature and contemplating ancient human roots.
• Personal Resonance: With local insights like Mwende Mutuli Musau’s Naivasha tips, the guide frames the region as a geological wonderland inviting full immersion.

Review of Chapter: Western Kenya & Masai Mara

Before opening this Lonely Planet chapter, I thought I knew what awaited me in the Masai Mara, stunning wildlife, the famed wildebeest migration, and luxurious lodges. Yet, I was genuinely surprised by the depth of the region beyond its iconic savannahs. The guide gently invited me to discover not only Mara’s famous wildlife spectacle but also its quieter charms, from immersive Maasai homestays to intimate walking safaris, where I could feel the earth beneath my feet and closely observe nature’s subtle rhythms.

I liked the insightful tips from locals, like photographer Brian Siambi’s advice on capturing the Mara’s golden-hour magic, and the sustainable travel wisdom shared by Nashulai Conservancy’s Nelson Ole Reiya, which deepened my understanding and appreciation for responsible travel.

Venturing further into Western Kenya, the guide opened up a world I barely knew existed, tempting me with promises of islands that seemed misplaced with their palm-fringed beaches, caves adorned with ancient rock art, and forests echoing with vibrant birdlife. Destinations like Rusinga and Mfangano Islands felt like hidden gems, waiting patiently for the curious traveller to uncover their distinct stories. 

This chapter beautifully captured the spirit of exploring beyond the beaten path, showcasing a side of Kenya that quietly shines, away from tourist crowds, exactly the kind of travel experiences I cherish most.

Review of Chapter: Central Highlands & Laikipia

I cracked open this chapter expecting just another safari-and-mountain segment, but instead found myself irresistibly drawn into a landscape layered with history, culture, and unmatched natural beauty. As the pages unfolded, Mt Kenya’s allure emerged not merely as a trekker’s prize but as a spiritual journey through diverse biospheres, where bamboo forests give way to alpine moorland dotted with surreal vegetation. 

The practical hiking tips, from battling altitude to selecting the right route (Sirimon’s gentle scenic trails or Naro Moru’s challenging bogs), were spot-on, like friendly whispers of advice from a seasoned traveller, leaving me with a confident sense of “I can do this.”

But it was Laikipia’s conservation heart and its deeply rooted connection with community that struck me most profoundly. From Ol Pejeta’s commitment to wildlife rescue, where meeting the rare mountain bongo or a blind black rhino felt deeply personal, to witnessing women weaving at Nanyuki Spinners, I felt I’d glimpsed the soul of a region quietly transforming itself through compassion, craft, and conservation. 

The chapter cleverly blends adventure with cultural insight, making me eager not just to explore this region but to genuinely connect with the lives and stories woven into its magnificent landscape.

Review of Chapter: Southeastern Kenya

I opened this chapter expecting classic safari tales, but what struck me deeply was how seamlessly the author intertwined spellbinding landscapes with poignant ecological realities. Amboseli, a place etched into my imagination, came vividly alive: herds of elephants roaming freely against the humbling backdrop of snow-capped Kilimanjaro, captured perfectly in descriptions that made me feel as though I stood on Observation Hill myself, binoculars in hand. 

Yet amid the stunning imagery was the haunting reminder of the devastating drought of 2022, a stark testament to climate change’s unforgiving grip, leaving thousands of animals perished and communities shattered, a reality that pierced my romantic notions of safari life.

More highlights of this chapter were:

• Dramatic Tsavo West: Blends captivating wildlife with history and volcanic lore.
• Infamous Human-Eating Lions: Interwoven with vivid journeys across Shetani’s obsidian lava fields, Mzima Springs, and Poacher’s Lookout.
• Practical Guidance: From careful wildlife drives to exhilarating dawn balloon rides.
• Human Connection: Encounters with Maasai manyattas underscore a profound respect for nature and cultural heritage.

Review of Chapter: Mombasa & the South Coast

Reading this chapter felt like rediscovering an old journal from a lifetime I'd almost forgotten, one filled with fragrances of cardamom and tamarind, and whispers of ancient sailors and slavers. The author vividly captures the enigmatic allure of Mombasa, where Fort Jesus stands like a sentinel overlooking centuries of tangled histories, from Omani sultans to Portuguese invaders. 

As I moved through the text, I could almost taste the sea breeze while strolling through Old Town, exploring maze-like streets where Gujarati doors and Portuguese facades tell tales of a city perpetually reborn. What struck me deeply was how gracefully the narrative handled the sensitive shadows of history, from the sobering slave quarters hidden beneath Fort Jesus to the forgotten echoes of Jumba La Mtwana, without ever losing sight of the vibrant life pulsing through Mombasa today.

Then came the sparkling shores of Diani, a place described as both an idyllic paradise and a sobering reality check. Here the author skillfully lifted the veil from postcard-perfect beaches, revealing layers of socio-economic disparity lurking beneath the glamour, something I’d sensed in my own travels yet never articulated so sharply.

 Equally compelling were the immersive ventures into local communities, like the Kaya Kinondo Forest and the Gazi Women's Boardwalk, reminding me that true travel isn't about merely soaking in beauty, but understanding the complexities behind it. This chapter wasn’t simply a guide to pristine beaches and historical relics; it was an invitation to engage with the South Coast’s soul, to witness its stories and contradictions in all their poignant beauty.

Review of Chapter: Lamu & The North Coast

As I wandered through this chapter, it felt as though I’d stumbled onto the pages of an adventure novel, one woven richly with mystery and ancient whispers from abandoned Swahili cities like Gede and Takwa. I found myself lingering longest in Kilifi, drawn to vivid descriptions of the bioluminescent algae lighting up the creek at night, a surreal natural wonder I’d now rank high on my travel dreams. Equally captivating was the account of the Mnarani Ruins, where history is slowly reclaimed by nature, each crumbling wall and weathered tombstone a silent storyteller of long-lost worlds. 

This chapter brilliantly underscores how the North Coast is more than beautiful beaches and upscale hideaways; it’s a tapestry of intertwined cultures, from Bajuni sailors to Mijikenda elders sipping mnazi beneath ancient baobabs, stubbornly defiant against time itself.

Lamu, with its irresistible old-world allure and quiet glamour, especially stood out as a place I wished to savor slowly, losing myself in narrow alleyways echoing with donkey hooves and centuries-old chants. The chapter paints an enticing picture of moonlit dhow sails, fragrant feasts, and festivals where the modern effortlessly blends with tradition, as seen in the annual Yoga Festival and lively community celebrations beneath the iconic baobabs. 

Yet beneath this dreamy veneer lies an important truth that resonated deeply with me: the tension between conservation and commercialization, epitomized by the controversial relocation of ancient baobab trees. This section masterfully balances paradise with authenticity, reminding me why places like Lamu and Kilifi are worth experiencing, not as mere destinations, but as living stories still being written.

Review of Chapter: Northern Kenya

Reading about Northern Kenya felt like thumbing through an adventurer’s notebook, raw, dusty, and deeply compelling. This chapter pulled no punches, setting the stage with promises of relentless winds, basic meals, and rugged roads, all met with rewards that few places can match.

I found myself dreaming of the surreal Chalbi Desert and picturing that first glimpse of Lake Turkana’s shimmering “Sea of Jade.” Especially intriguing was the candid portrayal of Marsabit and Sibiloi National Park, where one can almost touch history amid stark, prehistoric landscapes, trading comfort for the chance to walk paths rarely taken. It reminded me why real exploration isn't about perfect beaches or glossy brochures, but about the grit, surprises, and true connections found at the edges of the known world.

Samburu and Isiolo Counties further amplified this allure, blending vivid descriptions of exotic wildlife like reticulated giraffes and elusive Grevy’s zebras with genuine appreciation for Samburu culture. The story of elephants ascending Ol Lolokwe, defying our assumptions, particularly resonated with me, nature, as always, writing the most fascinating narratives. 

Even Isiolo’s bustling market, seemingly chaotic yet brimming with life, underscored Northern Kenya’s appeal as a place of contrasts and quiet revelations. This chapter didn't just inform, it beckoned, tempting me toward a land that promises not ease, but the richness of experience that only genuine adventure can deliver.

Review of Section 3: Toolkit

Navigating a new country can be intimidating, but Lonely Planet's Toolkit for Kenya turns that initial apprehension into an easy stride. Right from arrival at Nairobi's bustling Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, this guide arms you with crisp, actionable tips, from essential vaccinations (don't neglect that yellow fever certificate!) to securing a SIM card for the ever-reliable M-Pesa, Kenya's ubiquitous mobile-money lifeline.

 I appreciated the pragmatic warnings about Kenya's notorious traffic cops and the insightful advice on how to gracefully sidestep bribes, a small detail, yet profoundly useful in avoiding a minor hiccup from becoming a major headache.

The Toolkit's attention to diverse traveller needs, be it family journeys, solo women explorers, LGBTIQ+ travellers, or those requiring accessible accommodations, is thorough and inclusive, reassuring that Kenya has space for everyone, provided you know where to look. The down-to-earth section on food and drink guided me not just on what dishes to seek out, but how to eat them respectfully (remember, right hand only!). 

Most engaging was the chapter on responsible travel, a gentle yet powerful nudge towards sustainability, showcasing Kenya’s laudable strides in conservation. This Toolkit isn't merely informational; it's an indispensable travel companion that felt like having a knowledgeable friend by my side, smoothing the path at every turn.

Review of Section 4 The Kenya Storybook

As I dived into Section 4, , I found myself enchanted by its rich tapestry of stories, histories, and myths woven intricately by voices deeply connected to the land. This chapter does not merely recount facts; it breathes life into Kenya’s past and present, making history feel personal and vibrant. 

From Neema Githere’s evocative exploration of 15 iconic sites, from ancient ruins in Gede to the streets of Mombasa’s Old Town, each place emerges vividly as a living testament to the nation’s layered identity. I was particularly drawn to the narrative around the Giriama resistance leader Mekatilili Wa Menza, whose fearless spirit and daring escape from imprisonment embody the resilience that shapes Kenya's historical fabric.

Equally compelling was Nanjala Nyabola’s intimate portrayal of Kenyans themselves, a vibrant mosaic of people navigating tradition, modernity, and everything in between. Her engaging anecdotes reminded me of moments I've had exploring new places, realizing that beneath the surface of what visitors see, true understanding lies in the laughter, contradictions, and quiet resilience of locals. 

The chapter thoughtfully acknowledges that beyond the popular imagery of savannahs and safaris, Kenya pulses with creativity and complexity, which is further amplified in Julie Olum’s stirring piece on indigenous conservation practices. Her insights into community-driven efforts like Nashulai Conservancy left me with a renewed appreciation for the powerful intersection of tradition, conservation, and modern innovation, inspiring me to reflect deeply on the invaluable lessons we can learn from communities that have lived in harmony with nature for generations.

Final Thoughts

Exploring Kenya through the lens of Lonely Planet felt less like reading a travel guide and more like sharing stories over tea with a trusted friend, each page a warm invitation to adventures both big and small.

 This guidebook masterfully captures Kenya's nuanced layers, offering practical advice woven seamlessly with narratives that celebrate local communities, responsible travel, and rich, living history. It's not simply about ticking off iconic sights; it's about connecting deeply, traveling thoughtfully, and immersing fully in the spirit of the country.

More than a mere resource, this Lonely Planet guidebook rekindled my love for travel by reminding me that journeys aren't just destinations, but meaningful conversations with landscapes and the people who call them home. 

From Nairobi’s vibrant streets to Northern Kenya’s rugged authenticity, each chapter felt like discovering another facet of Kenya’s diverse personality. This isn't just a book to bring along, it's essential inspiration for those who believe true exploration lies in stories, authenticity, and genuine connection.  

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Author: Susan Bel