Things To Do
in Hola
Hola, Kenya is a small riverside town in Tana River County known for its vibrant markets and proximity to the Tana River delta. The town blends Swahili coastal culture with riverine Pokomo traditions, creating a welcoming, rustic community vibe. Visitors come to experience authentic rural Kenyan life, watch wildlife along the river, and sample coastal cuisine.
While remote, Hola offers rewarding nature walks, birdlife, and a quiet base for exploring the northern coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Hola, a quaint town nestled along the Tana River, and check into your hotel. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring traditional Kenyan dishes while soaking in the panoramic views of the lush surroundings. Take the morning to rest and acclimatize before your adventures begin.
After lunch, explore the local markets to get a taste of the vibrant culture and perhaps buy some unique souvenirs. Engage with the friendly locals and sample some local delicacies that will give you a sense of the region's rich culinary heritage. The atmosphere is buzzing with energy, providing a perfect introduction to your trip.
As the sun sets, have dinner at a nearby restaurant offering authentic Kenyan cuisine. Enjoy the blend of flavors and aromas while sharing stories with fellow travelers. After dinner, take a quiet walk along the riverbanks and enjoy the tranquil sounds of nature.
Start your day with a guided tour of Hola’s rich cultural heritage, visiting local historical sites that tell the story of the region. Interact with knowledgeable locals who narrate fascinating tales of the people and land. This immersive cultural experience sets a vibrant tone for the day's adventures.
After lunch, participate in a traditional Kenyan cooking class to learn the art of preparing local dishes. Engage with the chef as you chop herbs and spices, gaining insights into the culinary traditions that define the region. The afternoon is filled with laughter and shared experiences in the kitchen.
In the evening, attend a cultural dance performance that showcases the rhythms and movements of the local tribes. Enjoy the lively music and vivid costumes, which provide a spectacular glimpse into the traditional ways of life. Savor a late-night snack of street food before retiring to your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🥤Drink at local cafe | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Budget guesthouse per night | $15-40 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride within town | $2-6 |
| 🛒Groceries or basic supplies | $2-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic coastal and riverine culture with warm hospitality
- Affordable costs and abundant fresh seafood
- Rich birdlife and nature along the Tana River delta
- Less crowded, off-the-beaten-path experience
- Limited nightlife and developed tourist infrastructure
- Remote location can mean longer travel times to major cities
- Rural roads can be rough, especially in the rainy seasons
- Basic healthcare options; may require travel for advanced care
- "Habari yako" - Hello, how are you?
- "Jina lako nani?" - What is your name?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Bei gani?" - How much is this?
- "Ninaelewa Kidogo Kiswahili" - I understand a little Swahili
- "Samahani" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Ndiyo" - Yes
- "Hapana" - No
Places to Visit in Hola
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping view of the river delta with mangroves, reed beds and calm water—ideal for sunrise shots.
Colorful stalls, locals at work, and dynamic everyday life make for vibrant street photography.
Weathered architecture and textures at the riverside provide moody, historical imagery.
Food in Hola
Hola Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh river fish fried or grilled, served with ugali and a side of kachumbari (tomato-onion relish).
Must-Try!
A hearty combination of maize meal (ugali) with a flavorful fish curry or stewed fish.
A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices and either goat meat or seafood, popular in coastal towns.
Tomato-onion relish used as a fresh topping or side with many meals.
Steamed plantains with greens such as sukuma wiki or mchicha for a vegetarian option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively hub by the river where you can taste fresh fish, maize, and seasonal produce, plus street snacks.
Markets by the river offering cassava, leafy greens, and coastal staples; best explored early morning.
Casual stalls offering fruit, roasted corn, coconut water, and quick fried bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Habari' or 'Jambo'; a handshake is common; show respect to elders and local guides.
Dress modestly, especially in villages and religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Ask for permission before photographing people; do not photograph private homes or ceremonies without consent.
Respect local customs and dress codes; remove shoes when required and follow guidance from hosts.
Safety
Tipping in Hola
Ensure a smooth experience
Small tips (about 5–10%) for good service; cash is preferred; rounding up fares is common.
Cash in Kenyan shillings is widely used; M-Pesa and other mobile money services are common; some lodges accept card payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect heavy rainfall and high humidity; roads can become muddy and rivers swell. Great for lush landscapes and birding, but plan for slower travel.
Pleasant daytime heat with clearer skies; best for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing; some dust can arise in the dry air.
Chance of showers interspersed with sunny periods; landscapes turn green again; wildlife activity remains good for visits.
Typically hot and dry with strong sun; carry water, sunscreen and a hat; good for river trips and coastal excursions nearby.
Hola at Night
Hiking in Hola
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Guided hikes near the river to spot monkeys, birds, and other wildlife, with forested and savanna scenery.
Easy to moderate riverside trails along the delta edge, offering birding and photography opportunities.
Short boardwalks through mangrove ecosystems; excellent for coastal ecology photography.
Airports
How to reach Hola by plane.
Coastal gateway with international and domestic flights; journey from Mombasa to Hola by road is several hours.
Smaller regional airport serving domestic flights; convenient for combining a coastal trip with Hola.
Kenya’s main international hub; from here you can arrange domestic flights or overland trips to Hola.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A riverine indigenous community along the Tana River known for farming, crafts, and distinctive cultural practices.
Long-standing coastal culture speaking Kiswahili and engaging in coastal trade and crafts.
Pastoralist groups occasionally seen in the region, contributing to the area’s cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with informal games in towns and villages.
Common in coastal and rural communities; local matches can be seen in schools and public spaces.
Played in schoolyards and community centers; informal leagues and pickup games occur locally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hola.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on ugali, greens (sukuma wiki, mchicha), cassava, beans, and rice; inform cooks about no meat or fish.
Choose plant-based dishes such as vegetable curries, beans, rice, and salads; confirm no animal products in sauces.
Corn-based ugali is typically gluten-free; verify cross-contamination in shared kitchens and with sauces.