Where is Kenya Located?

by countryaah · Published December 10, 2020 · Updated December 19, 2024

Where is Kenya located on the map? Kenya is an independent nation located in Eastern Africa. Check out the following images to see location of Kenya on maps.

Kenya Location in World Map

Kenya is in the east of Africa.

Location Information of Kenya

Kenya is a country located in East Africa, bordered by the Indian Ocean to the southeast, Tanzania to the south, Uganda to the west, South Sudan to the northwest, Ethiopia to the north, and Somalia to the northeast. Kenya has a diverse geography, ranging from coastal plains to mountain ranges, savannas, and the Great Rift Valley, offering a rich blend of ecosystems and a high level of biodiversity. The country’s central location in Africa makes it an important political, economic, and cultural hub within the region.

Latitude and Longitude

Kenya is situated approximately between 5° N and 5° S latitude and 34° E and 42° E longitude. The country’s geographic positioning near the equator gives it a favorable climate and places it in the heart of East Africa. Kenya is home to both tropical and temperate climates due to its varied topography, from its coastal regions to the highlands.

The capital city of Nairobi, located inland, lies at about 1° 17′ S latitude and 36° 49′ E longitude. The country’s coastline along the Indian Ocean stretches about 500 kilometers (310 miles), with important ports like Mombasa serving as a key trade gateway.

Capital City and Major Cities

Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, is not only the largest city but also one of the most important political and economic centers in East Africa. The city is home to the Kenyan government, various multinational corporations, and several regional and international organizations. Other major cities include Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret, which contribute to the nation’s economic and social fabric.

Nairobi (Capital City)

Nairobi is the largest and most developed city in Kenya, with a population of approximately 4.5 million people. It serves as Kenya’s political, economic, and cultural capital, as well as a central hub for the region. Nairobi is known for its juxtaposition of modern infrastructure, high-rise buildings, and urban sprawl alongside nature reserves, such as the Nairobi National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and zebras. It is also a major financial center and a key city in Africa for international diplomacy.

The city is home to a wide variety of businesses, both local and international, and hosts many multinational organizations, particularly in the fields of technology, finance, and trade. Nairobi is also a major transportation hub, with the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport connecting the city to the rest of Africa and the world.

Mombasa

Mombasa, located on the southeastern coast of Kenya along the Indian Ocean, is Kenya’s second-largest city and its main port. Mombasa has a population of over 1.2 million and plays a critical role in Kenya’s trade and transport sectors. The city’s economy is primarily driven by tourism, shipping, and industry. Mombasa is famous for its historical sites, including Fort Jesus, a 16th-century fort built by the Portuguese, and Old Town, which reflects a rich mix of African, Arab, and European cultures. Mombasa’s beaches, such as Diani Beach and Nyali Beach, also attract significant international tourism.

Kisumu

Kisumu is located on the western shore of Lake Victoria and is one of the largest cities in western Kenya. It is the third-largest city in the country and plays an important role in trade, agriculture, and transportation in the region. Kisumu is a key center for the agricultural sector, particularly in the production of sugarcane and fish. The city is also a vital link for trade and transport to neighboring Uganda and Tanzania, as it has a port on Lake Victoria.

Nakuru

Nakuru is a city located in the Rift Valley Province of Kenya, about 160 kilometers northwest of Nairobi. It has a population of over 500,000 people and is an important agricultural and industrial center. Nakuru is renowned for its proximity to Lake Nakuru National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its large population of flamingos and diverse wildlife, including rhinos and lions. The city’s economy is driven by agriculture, particularly the growing of flowers, and light manufacturing.

Eldoret

Eldoret is a city in western Kenya, known for its rich agricultural production and as a center for Kenya’s high-altitude runners. It is located in the Uasin Gishu region, an area known for its fertile land and large-scale farming of crops such as maize, wheat, and vegetables. Eldoret is also an important transportation hub and a gateway to Kenya’s Rift Valley region.

Time Zone

Kenya operates on East Africa Time (EAT), which is UTC +3:00. The country does not observe Daylight Saving Time, so the time remains consistent throughout the year. Kenya’s time zone places it three hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). The country is aligned with several other East African nations, such as Ethiopia and Tanzania, in terms of time zone.

Climate

Kenya has a highly diverse climate, influenced by its geographic location near the equator, as well as its varied terrain. The climate in Kenya ranges from tropical on the coastline to temperate in the highland areas and arid or semi-arid in the northern and eastern regions.

Coastal and Lowland Areas

The coastal region and lowland areas of Kenya experience a tropical climate, characterized by high temperatures and humidity, with significant rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures along the coast are around 25-30°C (77-86°F). The region has two main rainy seasons: the long rains, from March to May, and the short rains, from October to December. The coastal area can also be affected by tropical storms and cyclones.

Highland and Central Regions

The central and highland areas, including Nairobi and regions surrounding the Great Rift Valley, have a more moderate climate. Temperatures in the highlands are cooler, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18-25°C (64-77°F), but it can get colder at higher altitudes. Nairobi, situated at an altitude of around 1,795 meters (5,889 feet), experiences mild weather throughout the year, with cooler nights.

Northern and Eastern Arid Regions

The northern and eastern parts of Kenya are mostly arid and semi-arid, with little rainfall and very high temperatures. Average temperatures in these regions can exceed 30°C (86°F), and the areas are often prone to droughts. The Isiolo, Marsabit, and Turkana regions, located in the northern part of the country, are characterized by desert-like conditions, with occasional rains that support pastoralism.

Rainy and Dry Seasons

Kenya’s climate features two distinct rainy seasons: the long rains (from March to May) and the short rains (from October to December). These seasons are vital for the country’s agriculture, with the rains providing necessary water for crop cultivation, especially in the highland and central areas. However, during the dry seasons, there is often a risk of drought, particularly in the arid and semi-arid regions.

Economic Status

Kenya’s economy is classified as lower-middle income by the World Bank, and the country has experienced consistent economic growth in recent years. The country has a mixed economy, with agriculture, industry, and services all contributing significantly to its GDP.

Key Economic Sectors

Agriculture: Agriculture is the backbone of Kenya’s economy, contributing about 33% of the GDP and employing around 75% of the population. Major crops include tea, coffee, horticultural products, maize, and sugarcane. Kenya is one of the world’s largest exporters of tea and flowers, particularly to European markets. Livestock farming, especially cattle and goats, is also an important sector in rural areas.
Services and Finance: The services sector has grown substantially, with tourism, banking, and telecommunications leading the way. Kenya has one of the most developed financial markets in sub-Saharan Africa, and Nairobi is often referred to as the “Silicon Savannah” due to its burgeoning technology sector, particularly in mobile payment systems like M-Pesa. The country is also a regional hub for international organizations, such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
Industry and Manufacturing: The industrial sector in Kenya is diverse, with food processing, cement production, and textiles being key industries. The government has prioritized industrialization, aiming to boost manufacturing and reduce dependence on agriculture. Kenya’s natural resources, including cement, flour, and chemicals, contribute significantly to the country’s economy.
Tourism: Kenya is one of Africa’s leading tourist destinations, with its vast wildlife reserves, national parks, and pristine beaches. Safaris to places like Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo, and Lake Nakuru are major attractions for international tourists. The coastal regions of Mombasa and Diani Beach also attract visitors for beach holidays and water sports.

Challenges

Despite significant economic growth, Kenya faces challenges such as high income inequality, poverty, and unemployment, especially among the youth. Infrastructure deficits, corruption, and political instability also pose challenges to long-term sustainable development. The country remains dependent on foreign aid and remittances from the Kenyan diaspora.

Tourist Attractions

Kenya is a major destination for tourists seeking wildlife, culture, and natural beauty. Some of the country’s most popular tourist destinations include:

Masai Mara National Reserve

The Masai Mara is one of the most famous safari destinations in Africa. Known for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara River, it offers unparalleled opportunities to see the “Big Five” animals—lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinoceros. The reserve is home to a rich diversity of wildlife and offers an authentic African safari experience.

Amboseli National Park

Located at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is famous for its large herds of elephants and breathtaking views of Africa’s highest peak. The park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is renowned for its stunning landscape, wildlife, and birdlife.

Nairobi National Park

Unique for being located just a few kilometers from the hustle and bustle of Nairobi, Nairobi National Park offers a remarkable opportunity to see wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and zebras, against the backdrop of the city skyline.

Lake Nakuru National Park

Known for its flamingo populations and the stunning scenery of Lake Nakuru, this park also offers a chance to see endangered species such as the black rhinoceros and white rhino.

Coastal Regions and Beaches

Kenya’s coastal region is home to beautiful beaches, such as Diani, Mombasa, and Malindi, which attract tourists with their clear waters, coral reefs, and luxury resorts. The coastal areas are also rich in history, with sites like Fort Jesus in Mombasa providing a glimpse into the country’s colonial past.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens traveling to Kenya for tourism, business, or transit purposes need a visa. Visas can be obtained online through the eVisa system, or upon arrival at Kenya’s international airports. The eVisa process is quick, and applicants need to provide the following documents:

A valid U.S. passport with at least six months of validity.
A completed eVisa application form.
Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay.
Proof of a return ticket or onward travel.

The tourist visa is typically valid for 90 days, but travelers should check the latest regulations before applying.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

From New York City to Nairobi: The flight distance from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) is approximately 12,300 kilometers (7,640 miles). The flight duration is around 15-17 hours, depending on the number of layovers.
From Los Angeles to Nairobi: The distance from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Nairobi is approximately 13,000 kilometers (8,080 miles). Flights typically take around 16-18 hours, depending on layovers.

The long distance and multiple layovers are indicative of Kenya’s position as a major hub in East Africa, which requires significant travel time from the U.S.

Kenya Facts

Size	580,367 km²
Residents	50 million
Languages	Swahili and English
Capital	Nairobi
Longest river	Tana (about 800 km)
Highest mountain	Batian (5,199 m)
Currency	Kenyan shilling