Journey through Kenya's rich traditions, ancient towns, and vibrant communities
Kenya's cultural tapestry is as diverse as its landscapes. This 7-day journey takes you beyond the safari circuit to discover the living heritage of Kenya's 40+ ethnic groups. From the proud Maasai warriors of the savannah to the Swahili traders of the ancient coast, you'll experience traditions that have endured for centuries.
Visit authentic villages where customs are practiced daily, not performed. Learn traditional skills, share meals with local families, and hear stories passed down through generations. This tour supports community-based tourism, ensuring your visit directly benefits the communities you encounter.
Live with a Maasai family and learn their pastoral traditions
Explore Africa's oldest Swahili settlement (UNESCO site)
Learn beadwork, woodcarving, and pottery from master artisans
Cook and dine with local families across different cultures
Witness and participate in ceremonial dances and songs
Visit ancient ruins, museums, and sacred forests
Begin your cultural journey in Kenya's capital. Visit the Nairobi National Museum to understand Kenya's cultural diversity and history. Explore the Maasai Market for authentic crafts. Afternoon visit to the Karen Blixen Museum and Kazuri Beads, a women's cooperative making beautiful ceramic jewelry. Evening welcome dinner at Carnivore Restaurant featuring traditional nyama choma (grilled meat).
Drive to the Maasai Mara region. En route, learn about the Maasai people from your local guide. Arrive at an authentic Maasai village (manyatta) where you'll be welcomed with traditional songs. Meet your host family and settle into your traditional accommodation. Afternoon introduction to Maasai customs, including the importance of cattle in their culture. Evening fireside stories with village elders.
A full day of cultural immersion. Join the warriors for morning cattle herding. Learn traditional beadwork from the women - create your own bracelet to take home. Participate in a traditional medicine walk with an elder, learning about plants used for healing. Afternoon spear-throwing and fire-making demonstrations. Evening ceremonial dance and jumping competition with the morans (warriors).
Bid farewell to your Maasai hosts and transfer to the airstrip for your flight to Mombasa. Upon arrival, explore the Old Town - a maze of narrow streets, ancient buildings, and ornate doors. Visit Fort Jesus (UNESCO World Heritage Site), built by the Portuguese in 1593. Walk through the Old Port and spice markets. Dinner at a traditional Swahili restaurant, sampling pilau, biryani, and fresh seafood.
Short flight to Lamu, followed by a traditional dhow boat ride to the island. Lamu Old Town is the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa, with origins dating back to the 12th century. Walking tour through labyrinthine streets (no cars on the island!). Visit the Lamu Museum and donkey sanctuary. Learn about Swahili architecture and the famous carved wooden doors.
Morning dhow building workshop - learn the ancient craft from master builders. Visit a local home for a Swahili cooking class - prepare coconut fish curry, chapati, and mahamri (sweet doughnuts). Afternoon henna painting experience and visit to local woodcarvers. Sunset dhow cruise around the archipelago with traditional Taarab music. Farewell dinner under the stars.
Final morning to explore Lamu at leisure or enjoy a beach stroll. Transfer by boat and flight back to Nairobi or Mombasa for your international departure. Depart with a deeper understanding of Kenya's incredible cultural heritage and lasting connections with the communities you've visited.
Modest clothing recommended, especially on the coast. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting villages and religious sites.
Always ask permission before photographing people. Some communities may request a small fee, which is appropriate and expected.
Handshakes are common. "Jambo" (hello) and "Asante" (thank you) in Swahili are always appreciated.
If you wish to bring gifts, school supplies or practical items are more beneficial than sweets for children.
June - October
Dry season throughout Kenya. Pleasant temperatures. Cultural festivals often held during this period.
January - March
Hot and dry. Coast is at its best. Good time for Lamu Cultural Festival (late February).
April - May
Long rains can disrupt travel. Not recommended for this tour due to domestic flights.
November - December
Short rains, usually brief. Christmas period busy. Book early for festive travel.