Kenya Sports Safaris
For the sporting traveler, Kenya offers world-class sporting facilities. Whether you are a keen golfer, tennis player or equestrian enthusiast, you’ll find plenty of options. Many hotel, lodges and guesthouses have been built with sport in mind. Excellent tennis, table tennis and squash courts, health clubs, stables and swimming pools are available. A select number of sports clubs cater to lawn bowling and croquet with world-class facilities and standards. Kenya is a nation of dart lovers and they are plentiful in local bars. Tabletop games (i.e. billiards and pool) are found exclusively in sports clubs and hotels.
Golf - There are 38 golf courses in Kenya. Many are scenic and located near game parks and reserves. On many of these courses, wild birds and game can be encountered. Kenya is probably the only destination in the world with the following golf course rules: “If a ball comes to rest close to a hippo or crocodile, another ball may be dropped at a safe distance, but no nearer the whole without penalty.”
Safari Rally - Since 1953 the Safari Rally has been billed as the “Worlds Best Road Rally” taking drivers through the Kenyan outback battling mud, dust and unpredictable wildlife to win. A full program of local events used to determine Motor Sportsman of the Year includes road safety, training, economy-run, national rallies and go-cart races. Another great road race, the Rhino Charge is for off-road 4-wheelers. It is held in Northern Kenya and raises money for wildlife conservation.
Marathon Running - High altitude training camps for international long distance runners have been set up in the Western highlands. They are in demand due to Kenya’s dominance in international middle and long distance running competitions. The Lewa Downs Marathon is held in a scenic private game sanctuary. The even raises money for wildlife.
Rugby - In recent years, rugby has also gained popularity as a spectator sport in Kenya. With international events such as the Safari Sevens held every year around November, this event has helped raise popularity of the game and also hosts international teams from countries such as Britain, France, Japan and South Africa. Kenya also boasts the Shujaa 7ns team and Shujaa have represented Kenya in various IRB events worldwide. Kenya also boast various rugby clubs around the country including Nondies, Harlequins, Impala, KCB, Mean Machine and Mwamba just to name a few. The Kenya Rugby Football Union can be found along Ngong Road in Nairobi.