Naivasha
This is perhaps one of the most popular family holiday destinations apart from the coast. From here, excursions can be made to Hell's Gate National Park and Mount Longonot. Popularly known as 'Vasha', the region has become popular thanks to the new Safari Rally wave. The shoreline to Lake Naivasha is lined up with hotels and camping sites to suit all types of pockets. From as low as Sh2,000, it is possible to find a place to spend the night.
Ngong Hills
From the outset, this may not look like your regular holiday destination. However, Ngong Hills are among the most romanticised in the continent, partly due to the escapades of Karen Blixen and her two lovers. "I had a farm in Africa..." so starts the book, Out of Africa by the Danish writer. The hills featured prominently in her book.
Biking, archery and zip lining are key activities on the hills. However, security concerns may restrict young children from taking part in some of these activities. In any case, carry some card games to engage the young ones. While there are no accommodation facilities up the hills, Ngong town offers affordable options that include Airbnb's.
Availability: All year round
Costs: Sh200
Kakamega Forest
If you happen to be in western Kenya, squeeze in a visit to the Kakamega Forest, the only remnant in Kenya of the unique Guineo-Congolian forest ecosystem and one of the key water towers in the country. The forest is partly managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service and Kenya Forest Service.
From the main gate, a short drive takes one to the forest offices where you are briefed on the diverse sceneries in the forest. There are more than just trees here as it is a haven to black and white colobus, Olive baboons, and the bearded De Brazza's monkey. Are you a bird lover? The ornithological diversity draws visitors from around the world. The forest is home to more than 300 species of birds. As for the slithering creatures, Kakamega Forest boasts of 27 snake species hence the need to approach the forest with care.
A brief hike to one of the highest spots in the forest highlights another facet of the forest. Multi-coloured butterflies hop from one bloom to another - 400 species in total.
As for accommodation, Rondo Retreat, a family-themed house is the place to be. The exquisite lodge is a former sawmiller's residence converted to a charming, overnight stopover, its vibrant white a sharp contrast with the green spaces.
Availability: All year round
Costs: Adults, Sh300; children, Sh125
Mama Ngina Waterfront, Mombasa
Mombasa has vast and varied repertoire of holiday hotspots. It is nearly impossible to single out one item from the deep bucket of activities to do in Mombasa. While the sandy beaches and Fort Jesus are a must for many, Mombasa has other attractions that are little spoken about.
One of them is Mama Ngina Waterfront, which is patterned after South Africa's waterfront in Durban. The waterfront was refurbished at a cost of more than Sh400 million. Hey, this is a public investment that should not go to waste. Unlike the previous bland grounds, the new spaces have enhanced security, proper eateries and well-laid rest areas. This is the perfect place to take in a cool breeze from the ocean as you watch large ships head into and out of the port.
Of course, Mombasa has a vast array of accommodation to choose from, ranging from Airbnbs to budget hotels within the town or towards Mtwapa. Here, your pocket determines where you can stay.