2.1 Adventure activities
Adventure activities are outdoor tourism activities that involve physical effort, some controlled risk and contact with nature, offering guests excitement and a sense of achievement. In wildlife destinations they are usually combined with game viewing and are led or supported by a trained guide who assembles the right tools and equipment and keeps the group safe. Example: a guide in Hell's Gate National Park assembles helmets, bicycles and a first aid kit for a group cycling past grazing zebra and giraffe to the gorge.
Common adventure activities in wildlife areas
- Hiking and trekking: Walking on mountain and forest trails, such as Mount Kenya, Mount Longonot and the Aberdares.
- Walking safaris: Guided walks among wildlife, led by an armed ranger or qualified walking guide in permitted areas.
- Mountain biking: Cycling on designated park routes such as in Hell's Gate.
- Rock climbing and abseiling: On cliffs such as Fischer's Tower and the gorge walls of Hell's Gate.
- White-water rafting and kayaking: On rivers such as the Tana near Sagana.
- Hot air ballooning: Early morning flights over the Maasai Mara.
- Camel safaris: Multi-day trips in northern Kenya, for example in Laikipia and Samburu.
- Caving: Guided visits to caves such as those on Mount Elgon, known for elephant salt-mining.
Tools and equipment assembled for adventure activities
| Name |
Specification |
Use |
| Safety helmet |
Certified for climbing, cycling or rafting |
Protects the head from falls and impacts |
| Harness, ropes and carabiners |
Certified climbing standard, inspected before use |
Securing climbers and abseilers |
| Life jackets |
Correct size, buoyancy rated |
Water activities |
| Mountain bikes |
Serviced, with working brakes and gears |
Cycling tours |
| Backpacks and hydration packs |
20 to 40 litres, with water bladder |
Carrying water and essentials |
| First aid kit |
Wilderness kit with splints and bandages |
Treating injuries in the field |
| Communication radio |
Charged, tested |
Contact with base and rangers |
Safety considerations
- Risk assessment: Assess hazards, weather and guests' fitness before the activity.
- Briefing: Explain the activity, equipment use and emergency signals.
- Qualified leaders: Use certified instructors for technical activities.
- Equipment checks: Inspect every item before issue and after use.
- Wildlife awareness: Keep safe distances from animals and follow ranger instructions.
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Create a free account 🔒2.2 Recreational activities
Recreational activities are leisure activities that guests take part in for relaxation, enjoyment and social interaction rather than challenge or risk. In wildlife destinations they fill time between game drives, suit guests of all ages and fitness levels, and…
🔒2.3 Nature-based activities
Nature-based activities are activities whose main purpose is to observe, learn about and appreciate natural features, wildlife and ecosystems. They are the core of wildlife tour guiding and depend heavily on the guide's knowledge, interpretation skills and cor…
🔒2.4 Use of wildlife tools and equipment
Wildlife tools and equipment are the items a guide uses to observe, identify, interpret, photograph and safely approach wildlife, and to protect guests in the field. Knowing what each item is for, and using it correctly, improves the quality of the guests' exp…
🔒2.5 Procedure for use of wildlife tools and equipment
A clear procedure for issuing, using and returning wildlife tools and equipment makes sure that every item is ready when needed, used safely and correctly, and returned in good condition. It also protects the operator's investment and avoids disappointment whe…
