Bordered by the Indian Ocean, Kenya is an east African gem that is known for its diverse landscapes, a variety of wildlife, and an ever-growing economy. After gaining independence from the UK in the sixties, Kenya has been continuing to establish itself as a key player in the African and global economies. The huge growth so far has helped to showcase the country for its beauty, cultural heritage, and climate appeal - all factors that make it an attractive destination for weddings. With the weddingmoon phenomenon continuing to grow, the vast country is an ideal choice for a weddingmoon, thanks to such a wide variety of resorts and areas waiting to be explored.
Here are the best destinations, ready to lure you in for an unforgettable weddingmoon in Kenya.
Nairobi
The capital city of Kenya and one of the largest across Africa, Nairobi is a bright metropolis of prosperity, culture, and Kenyan tradition. A wedding here can encompass the unique traditions of a Kenyan marriage, alongside scenery to wow your guests! Blending modern influences with heritage customs can build an elaborate wedding of colour, spectacle, and luxury.
The vast scale of the city means there is a wide range of venue options available for hire. For an outside service, Karura Forest is a spectacle of blended textures and natural colours. Say ‘I Do' beside the fifteen-metre waterfall or deep within the forest's marshland and Indigenous trees. For an authentic Kenya element, embrace a ngurario ceremony, including feasting and dancing to bring joy to the union, this is a kind Kikuyu wedding and is a traditional Kenyan custom - allowing you to pay homage to where you've just got hitched!
Honeymoon here for an array of adventures, relaxation, and activities intertwined. For the most bustling environment, head from the big day straight to the CBD and embrace the metropolitan sounds and sights. West of the central district, discover the affluence of the Westlands, with modern shopping areas, restaurants, and upscale residential areas. Stay in luxury here to fit right into the rich heritage. For more green space, Lavington provides the tranquility of land in masses. Stay at a boutique hotel for an ornate Kenyan stay with knowledgeable locals able to ensure you make the most of your weddingmoon.
Shaba Natural Reserve
If you are looking for a truly unique wedding that your guests will be talking about for years to come, adventure travel getaways are no exception in Kenya. Embark on something memorable like a mountainous trek in and around your big day, or why not take the whole gang on safari to get at one with Kenyan wildlife? Allow extra wedding guests, as the dry bushlands of the reserve attract wildlife in their masses, from lions to zebras, to giraffes.
For a tranquil honeymoon of just the two of you, escape to a secluded luxury lodge within the oasis of the reserve. This unique stay would put you in a protected, yet one of the most untouched Kenyan locations. Enjoy serenity and stillness after the madness of the big day is complete. Book a lodge with a spa for added luxury and rejuvenate together, among neighbouring wildlife and ecosystems. Experience an early wake-up that's worth it, with a sunrise hot air balloon ride, offering breathtaking views of the reserve and its animal residents from above, lit with the orange glow of the ascending sun.
Turkana
Northwest region, Turkana County is home to key cultural significance and archaeological importance. Dubbed the ‘Jade Sea', Lake Turkana is the largest desert lake in the world, famous for its aqua waters contrasting to the volcanic landscape surrounding it. The society here reflects traditional African charm, alongside its rich heritage, unique to any other area in Kenya.
Embrace a wedding ceremony here in the custom way designated by local Turkana people. The ceremony tends to involve full community gatherings and rituals like the sharing of food between families to symbolise support heading into the union. Play homage to your wedding location and embrace the traditional attire of beaded jewellery and elaborate hairstyles.
The second largest county in Kenya can offer an attractive honeymoon destination, for isolated romance, adventurous hikes, and education on traditional Kenyan values. Experience a weddingmoon so varying to British culture, that it won't be one to forget. You're sure to be desperate to return after embracing the beauty of Turkana County.
Masai Mara National Reserve
For an authentic Kenya safari experience, embrace a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the natural world for a honeymoon to remember. With a local expert to guide you, you're guaranteed to capture some of the world's most unique wildlife, from elephants to buffalos! For an intimate camping stay just the two of you, go off-grid on a honeymoon here to start married life the best way possible.
Or, for added luxury, take in the spirit of a boutique log cabin for a luxury honeymoon experience with pristine views across the natural reserve. Learn about the traditional way of life for residents here, as well as take on the unforgettable experiences of a hot-air balloon overlooking the marvels below. For added romance in the evening, embrace a bush dinner under the constellations of the starlit sky, accompanied by traditional cuisine and masai dancers for some added cultural entertainment. A magical experience in one of the world's best natural wonders.
Lamu Island
For a seaside escape, on the coast of Kenya, Lamu Island is renowned for its sublime sands and crystal-clear waters, alongside unique architecture and Swahili culture. With the enticing detail of Swahili, houses dotted along narrow streets and bustling artisan markets. Like Turkana, Lamu embraces a unique culture, so take on a stunning beach wedding adorned with elements of Swahili tradition.
For weddingmoon accommodation, there a countless luxury cabins surrounding the coastline, with views overlooking the waters. Hilltop villages like Shela bring the perfect combination of solitude for just the two of you and the village community to get involved in. You can even discover accommodation with an included world-class chef. It's your honeymoon, you deserve the luxury bonuses!
Summary
A weddingmoon should be unforgettable and there aren't many places as once-in-a-lifetime as Kenya. Delve into new cultures as newlyweds and experience vases of wildlife and untouched natural worlds.
