Things To Do, Tourist Attractions & Best Places To Visit In Tana River County

Did you know that Tana River County is the only place in the world where you can find the endangered Tana River Red Colobus and Tana mangabey monkeys?

This Naicef guide opens up the best places to visit in Tana River County, tourist attractions, and things to do in Tana River County, including the best places to stay.

To make any enquiries, kindly contact Naicef via email at [email protected] or call: +254799922277. Also, you can;

Book The Tour Here

Tana River County boasts an array of natural and cultural attractions, offering an authentic travel experience.

Interesting Facts About Tourist Attractions & Best Places To Visit In Tana River County

Named after Kenya’s longest river, the Tana River, this county remains one of the country’s least explored and most fascinating places.

The county is home to a diversity of ethnic groups, including the Orma, Wardei, and Pokomo.

Hola Town was the site of the Hola Massacre in 1959 during the colonial era, a pivotal event in Kenya’s fight for independence

The Tana Delta supports over 350 species of birds, making it a top birdwatching destination in Kenya & East Africa.

Best Tourist Attractions In Tana River County

1. Tana River Primate Reserve

This reserve is one of the best tourist attractions in Tana River County, which was established to protect endangered primate species. It is also a bird haven as it is inhabited by over 200 bird species.

For primate lovers, this reserve is the place to be, also offering a great range of biodiversity. Visit also Ol Pejeta Conservancy and get to see the Chimpanzees;

2. Tana Delta Wetlands

A haven for birdwatchers and ecologists, one of the largest freshwater wetland systems in Eastern Africa.

Rich in biodiversity and a prime spot for class Aves lovers.

3. Kipini Beach

A hidden coastal gem with pristine beaches for swimming and relaxation.

Ecological tours and birdlife observation along the shorelines are a spectacular sight.

4. Tana River

The lifeblood of the county offers boating and fishing opportunities as you interact with local fishermen who can show you how to fish.

Also offers solo paddling or kayaking, river scenery, and rafting.

5. Cultural Villages

Learn from the Pokomo, Orma, and Wardei communities including their history and lifestyle.

Experience also a;

6. Arawale National Reserve

This reserve serves as a sanctuary for critically endangered species, including the Grevy’s Zebra, one of the special five animals, and elephants.

It is an ideal place to go for rugged dust and drive safari. Check out some of our adventurous self-drive safaris;

7. Mwana Ruins and Ungwana Ruins

Being one of the best tourist attractions in Tana River County, the Mwana and Ungwana ruins are significant archeological sites offering a glimpse into the rich history of the Swahili civilization.

Though significant, they receive less attention compared to the more famous Gedi ruins, making them great for off-the-beaten-path historical adventures.

Their location was strategically important as the river served as a communication route, facilitating trade between the interior and the open sea.

For a historical adventure, this is the place to go.

8. Ungwana Historical Mosques

Ungwana was a significant religious centre, and in part of the Ungwana ruins lie at least eight mosques, indicating a once-thriving Muslim community.

Immerse yourself in history as one of the best things to do in Tana River Kenya, while learning about the Swahili architecture.

Best Things To Do In Tana River County

The best things to do in Tana River County range from birdwatching and nature walks to fishing and kayaking on the actual Tana River.

Below is a breakdown of the best things to do in Tana River County.

1. Bird Watching

The Tana Delta Wetlands offer one of the best birding experiences in Kenya, with species like the Pel’s fishing owl, African skimmer, and the endangered Basra reed warbler.

Birding tours are best done with local guides who are able to give more insight. Here are some of our birding tours;

2. Boat Safaris on the Tana River

Cruising the Tana River offers close encounters with crocodiles, hippos, and a wide variety of birdlife.

The river can also be experienced at a relaxed pace for anyone who prefers solo paddling. The forests along the river banks are also home to a diversity of fauna species.

Some tours also provide night boat trips for a glimpse of nocturnal species.

Ever admired witnessing the Great Migration of the Mighty Wildebeests as they cross over the Mara River? Check out our amazing packages;

3. Cultural Tours

Tana River County, being rich in culture, you can visit local Pokomo and Orma communities and learn about their traditional lifestyles, music, dances, and crafts.

These interactions provide deep insights into Kenya’s diverse cultural heritage. Visitors can immerse themselves in local customs and even participate in community activities.

Learn about the agricultural practices along the riverbanks and get a glimpse into Kenya’s colonial history at the Hola monument.

Make sure to respect local customs and ask permission before taking photos of the locals.

Try out any of the cultural tours below and get to interact with people of a different culture;

4. Fishing Expeditions

The Tana River is teeming with fish such as tilapia and catfish.

Fishing with local fishermen or hiring a guide can be both relaxing and rewarding.

5. Nature Walks and Forest Hikes

Explore the Tana River Primate Reserve or surrounding areas on foot with a guide.

Learn about indigenous plants, spot monkeys, and enjoy the tranquility of untouched nature.

6. Beach Picnics and Swimming at Kipini

If you’re looking for a relaxing end to your adventure, the little-known beaches around Kipini offer white sands and shallow waters.

Get absolute peace away from the crowds of Kenya’s coastal destinations.

Best Places To Stay In Tana River County

Here are some of the comfy best places to stay in Tana River County;

1. Kipini Tana Delta Camp

An eco-lodge near the ocean and delta, offering tented accommodations and guided excursions.

2. Delta Dunes Lodge

Located where the Tana River meets the Indian Ocean, this upscale lodge combines river, beach, and dune ecosystems. Perfect for couples and nature lovers.

3. White Elephant Camp (Kipini)

A cozy and rustic beach lodge offering peace and ocean views. Ideal for travelers looking to unwind.

4. Hola and Garsen Guesthouses

Affordable guesthouses and basic hotels are available in Hola and Garsen, suitable for business travelers and budget-conscious tourists.

Book a stay at any of the accommodations with Naicef.

Best Time To Visit Tana River County

Wondering when the best time to visit Tana River County could be? Then worry not because the county can be visited all year round; however, below are the seasons and the perfect activity during those periods.

Dry Season (June to October; January to March)

This season is ideal for outdoor activities, river safaris, and bird watching, and the roads are more accessible.

Wet Season (April to May and November to December)

The landscapes are lush, and bird migrations occur, however, some areas may become inaccessible due to flooding or muddy roads.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best places to visit in Tana River County are the Tana River Primate Reserve and Arawale National Reserve, among others. They also make up the best tourist attractions in Tana River County.

There’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Tana River County, ranging from birdwatching and river tours to fishing expeditions.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, cultural explorer, or an eco-traveler, the best places to visit in Tana River County from the Tana River Primate National Reserve to the scenic Tana Delta provide a memorable and truly unique experience.

These adventures are matched by the region’s array of remarkable tourist attractions in Tana River County, which combine nature, history, and local traditions in one fascinating destination.

For those planning an extended stay, the best places to stay in Tana River County include charming eco-lodges and bush camps such as Delta Dunes Lodge, Kipini Wildlife Conservancy Camp, and Tana River Lodge.

To fully enjoy the county’s wonders, the best time to visit Tana River County is during the dry seasons when wildlife viewing is at its peak and travel conditions are favorable.

During these months, even remote areas and the best destinations in Tana River like the Arawale Reserve and Kipini coastline are more accessible and visitor-friendly.

In the end, Tana River is not just a stopover, it’s a journey into Kenya’s wild heart, where the stories of nature and culture unfold side by side.

Plan your visit and experience firsthand the magic that sets this county apart.

For any enquiries, contact [email protected] or call +254799922277. Consider also to;

Book The Tour Here

Here are also some more counties that you may explore:

Siaya, Trans Nzoia, Taita Taveta, Muranga, Vihiga, Migori, Homa Bay, Samburu, Nyandarua, Tana River, Kisumu, Kakamega, Busia, Bungoma, Isiolo, Garissa, Kwale, Kisii, Turkana, and Tharaka Nithi, among others.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Tana River County

1. What are the main tourist attractions in Tana River County?

The best tourist attractions in Tana River County include the Tana River Primate Reserve, Tana Delta Wetlands,Kipini beach and the Tana River.

2. What activities are available for tourists in Tana River County?

The best things to do in Tana River County include birdwatching, boat safaris, cultural tours, and forest hikes.

3. What is the best time to visit Tana River County?

The best time to visit Tana River County is the Dry season, which is June to October and January to March.

4. What are the transportation options within the county?

Roads, Air- Hola has an airstrip for chartered flights, river transport.

5. What are the available accommodation options?

There are diverse options for the best places to stay in Tana River County, including hotels and lodges, campsites, and community stays.