Mixed experience in Kenya — beautiful but overhyped

Kenya is undeniably beautiful. Mount Kenya and the area around Mombasa have a visual quality that photographs don't capture fully. I enjoyed mandazi and appreciated conservation success stories. That's all real.

But altitude sickness near Mt. Kenya was more of a problem than I expected based on reviews I'd read. It coloured parts of the trip in ways I hadn't prepared for. I'd still go back, but I'd approach certain aspects differently. A 4 feels generous on a bad day but fair overall.