Kenya is best known for its extraordinary wildlife but there’s so much more for tourists to experience in this East African country. From its cosmopolitan capital, Nairobi, to its beautiful artisan fashion and jewellery, Kenya is a must-see destination. Here is brief overview of some of the must-see, and stay, attractions.

Karen Blixen Museum

 For fans of Blixen’s novel-turned-movie, Out of Africa, an afternoon peering around the house she lived in and wrote many of her books in, is a must-visit.

The early 20th century house, which was once part of a large farm, has been painstakingly decorated and furnished as how Blixin had it at the time, with the mix of original and replica pieces (including a few from the Out of Africa set). Have a look at her study and the remarkably preserved outdoor kitchen. The volunteer tour guides are also incredibly knowledgeable and will make sure that you don’t miss any details. Blixin had a genuine bond with Kenya, and in recognition of this, the suburb that her home is in has been named after her.

Details: museums.or.ke/karen-blixen

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

It’s not news that many of Kenya’s wildlife are under extreme pressure from poachers, and if a mother is killed, it often means certain death if her offspring are too young to defend themselves.

The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is dedicated to saving the lives of baby elephants, raising them for several years, and then releasing them back into national parks where they can join a herd live a happy, fulfilling life. These orphan elephants each have their own dedicated carer who even sleeps with them in their individual stables.

Beware – watching these elephants trot past tourists is quite possibly the cutest thing you will see in your life; have your video camera ready to capture the moment. Visitor numbers are strictly limited to ensure that the elephants are not stressed, so make sure to book ahead.

Details: sheldrickwildlifetrust.org

Hot air balloon ride

What’s better than viewing a Kenyan savannah from a 4WD? Viewing it from the sky.

There are several companies that run hot air balloon rides across national parks, where you can sacrifice a sleep in, but you get to experience a truly magical time seeing nature in its full glory. Despite the early start at about 3.30am, it feels like a real privilege to be out before the sun it and view the animals during their quiet times. Once in the balloon, it gently glides over the savannah and looking below you get your own personal show of extraordinary animal behaviour – hippos splashing in the river, lions huddled together in the long grass and the skittish impalas running as fast as they can. It’s a dazzling start to the day.

Details: Balloon Safaris LTD

Masai Mara

This national park in the south is one of the most popular safari sites in Kenya, and for a good reason.

The enormous size of this natural savannah is home to dozens of native animals that most of us only get to see in zoos. There’s the ‘big five’ – lions, elephants, giraffes, rhinos and hippos. Watching these majestic animals naturally graze and interact is a fairly indescribable experience. This is especially so when you see a pride of 20 or so elephants, including several baby elephants, just metres away. It’s a lesson in nature at its best.

Although some vehicles don’t have windows – which allows you to get even better photos – there’s no need to be afraid of the animals; they are so used to seeing humans, that they don’t particularly care when yet another vehicle drives by.

Details: Masai Mara

House of Waine

There’s plenty of luxurious and five-star hotels in the world, but there’s very few that could rival the old-school class of the House of Waine.

Formerly a private home, the same family has given this 2.5 hectare a fresh start and converted it into a classic and truly memorable hotel. The design, which mixes the richness of traditional Kenyan culture with colonial influences, makes it both warm and inviting, but also supremely elegant. There’s just 11 rooms, all generously sized and tastefully furnished, which makes an ultra-private getaway. The pool, immaculate gardens and delicious breakfast makes this a must-stay destination.

Details: House of Waine

Go on safari in style

While there’s plenty of positives about Kenya, one thing that visitors should be aware of that it’s most the easiest place to navigate on your own, especially if you’re a first-time visitor.

A travel package, like with Bench Africa, organise everything including transport, accommodation, meals, tips, activities and all language, safety and cultural concerns. This means that there’s much more time to actually enjoy the experience – and it would be a shame to miss out on any of the spectacular sights in this stunning country.

Details: Bench Africa