Kenya

Key Facts

• Capital & Largest City: Nairobi
• Official Languages: English and Swahili (Kiswahili is the national language)
• Population: Over 53.3 million people (as of mid-2025 estimate)
• Currency: Kenyan shilling (KES or KSh)
• Major Exports: Tea, horticultural products (especially fresh flowers), and coffee 

Geography & Wildlife

Kenya's geography varies widely, encompassing a coastline on the Indian Ocean, savannahs, the dramatic Great Rift Valley, and mountain highlands. It is home to 50 national parks and reserves, which host diverse wildlife including the "Big Five" (lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhinoceros). 

Key natural features and attractions include:

• Maasai Mara National Reserve: Famous for its dense lion population and the annual wildebeest migration.
• Mount Kenya: The second-highest mountain in Africa.
• Nairobi National Park: Unique as it is the only national park located within a capital city's limits, where visitors can see wildlife against a city skyline backdrop.
• The Great Rift Valley: A massive geographical trench running through the country, featuring a chain of shallow lakes and extinct volcanoes. 

Economy

Kenya has the largest economy in East and Central Africa and is a lower-middle-income country. Agriculture is the largest sector, but the service industry, particularly tourism, is also a major economic driver. The port city of Mombasa is the country's oldest city and a major trade gateway. 

Travel Information

Travelers typically fly into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. As of January 1, 2024, an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) is required for entry for most visitors. Visitors are advised to exercise a high degree of caution due to threats of terrorism and crime and should check official travel advisories for specific high-risk areas.