Kenya, Africa Wheelchair Travel Guide

Kenya, located in East Africa, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant culture. From the bustling capital city of Nairobi to the breathtaking savannahs of the Masai Mara, Kenya offers a diverse range of experiences. This review provides a comprehensive guide to accessible travel in Kenya, including accommodations, transportation, attractions, dining options, and adaptive recreation programs.

Attractions

• Nairobi National Park: Kenya’s first national park, located just outside Nairobi, offers a chance to see wildlife close to the city. The park features safari drives and guided tours. Pathways are paved and dirt roads. Some viewing areas and paths may have uneven surfaces. Accessible restrooms and parking.
• Masai Mara National Reserve: Famous for the Great Migration and diverse wildlife. Features accessible safari tours and game drives. Pathways are mainly dirt roads. Accessible lodges and camps are in the park. Some game viewing areas are on rough terrain.
• Giraffe Centre, Nairobi: A sanctuary for the endangered Rothschild giraffe. Features giraffe feeding and educational exhibits on paved pathways. Some areas have uneven terrain. Accessible restrooms and parking.
• Karen Blixen Museum, Nairobi: The former home of the famous author of “Out of Africa.” Features guided tours of the house and gardens on paved pathways with ramps. Some garden paths may be uneven. Accessible restrooms.
• Nairobi National Museum: A museum showcasing Kenya’s history, culture, and art. Exhibits on archaeology, art, and ethnography on paved and level pathways. Some exhibit areas may be crowded during peak times. Accessible restrooms and elevators.
• David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: A center dedicated to the conservation of elephants and rhinos. Features elephant orphanage tours and conservation exhibits. Paved pathways and ramps. Some tour areas may be crowded. Accessible restrooms and parking.
• Bomas of Kenya, Nairobi: A cultural center showcasing traditional Kenyan music and dance. Features performances, crafts, and exhibits. Some performance areas may have limited space. Paved pathways. Accessible restrooms and seating.
• Kazuri Beads Factory, Nairobi: A factory that produces handmade ceramic beads and pottery. Features factory tours and craft shop. Some production areas may have limited space. Paved and level pathways. Accessible restrooms and parking.

Accommodations

• Sarova Stanley, Nairobi: This historic hotel offers elegant accommodations and a central location in Nairobi. Accessible rooms with wide doorways and turning space. King and twin beds available. Roll-in showers and grab bars. Accessible restaurant, business center, and fitness room. Some areas in the older parts of the hotel may have limited accessibility.
• Giraffe Manor, Nairobi: A unique boutique hotel known for its resident giraffes that visit guests at breakfast. Accessible rooms available with king-sized beds. Roll-in showers and accessible amenities. Accessible pathways, restaurant, and garden. Some older sections may have uneven flooring.
• The Kenya Comfort Hotel, Nairobi: A budget-friendly option in Nairobi offering basic yet comfortable accommodations. Accessible rooms with standard amenities. Twin and double beds with roll-in showers. Restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and accessible common areas. Limited accessible parking and some narrow corridors.
• Panafric Hotel, Nairobi: This hotel offers budget accommodations with a focus on comfort and accessibility. Accessible rooms with basic amenities. Twin and double beds with roll-in showers and accessible features. Pool, restaurant, and conference facilities. Some areas may have uneven surfaces.
• Fig Tree Camp, Masai Mara: An accessible tented camp offering a unique safari experience. Accessible tents with wide doorways and roll-in showers. Accessible common areas, dining, and safari vehicles with ramps. Paved pathways and accessible restrooms. Some uneven terrain around the camp.
• Kicheche Bush Camp, Masai Mara: An intimate, accessible camp providing immersive safari experiences. Accessible tents with appropriate facilities. Accessible pathways and dining areas. Accessible safari vehicles and restrooms. Rough terrain in some areas.

Transportation

Kenya offers several accessible transportation options, though availability can vary. Public transportation outside major cities may have limited accessibility.

• Car Rentals: Companies like Hertz and Avis offer accessible vehicles with hand controls or adaptations upon request.
• Public Transport: Nairobi has some accessible buses, and accessible taxis can be arranged through companies like Uber and Lyft.
• Domestic Flights: Major airlines, including Kenya Airways, provide assistance and accessible services for passengers.

Restaurants

• Carnivore Restaurant, Nairobi: A renowned restaurant specializing in a variety of meats served in a unique dining style. Accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating. Some interior spaces may be crowded.
• Talisman, Nairobi: A popular restaurant offering a mix of international and local dishes, including vegetarian. Accessible pathways, restrooms, and seating. Limited space during peak hours.
• The Lord Erroll, Nairobi: A fine dining restaurant known for its elegant setting and international cuisine. Accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating. Some areas may have uneven flooring.

Adaptive Recreation Programs and Organizations

• Kenya Paralympic Committee: An organization supporting athletes with disabilities and promoting inclusive sports. Offers adaptive sports events and training programs. Programs are designed to be inclusive and accessible. Limited resources in some areas.
• Adventurers and Explorers Foundation: Provides adventure activities and experiences for people with disabilities. Accessible safaris, hiking, and adventure tours. Tailored programs and adaptive equipment. Limited availability in remote areas.