Beyond the city noise: How young Kenyans are escaping the chaos

In a country where the daily grind can sometimes feel like an unending matatu ride through Nairobi traffic - bumpy, loud, and full of unexpected stops - young Kenyans are finding a different kind of rhythm. Tired of the noise, the hustle, and the silent weight of life’s pressures, they are packing their bags, their playlists, and their restless spirits, and heading out in groups to explore the beauty of their homeland. It’s not just about taking photos for the 'Gram or ticking off bucket lists—these road trips have become modern-day therapy sessions, with Arbantone beats as the background music and laughter as the medicine.

These young people who fall under the Gen Z banner have started embracing group adventures as an alternative way to find mental relaxation and strengthen social connections. They say that these trips are not just for fun but also help in reducing life pressures and provide an opportunity for them to learn new things. In a world full of screens and deadlines, young people in Kenya are rediscovering the joy of real-life experiences.

They are leaving behind the loneliness of city life and choosing the open road. Instead of scrolling through social media, they are enjoying the natural beauty of their country. These trips are not just about seeing new places; they are about feeling alive and rebuilding a sense of community in a world that sometimes feels disconnected.

Felix Odhiambo, a nature lover, knows how powerful these trips can be. For him, they are not just for fun - they are necessary for his well-being. "When I’m out there, I forget about everything else. The stress just disappears. It feels like pressing a reset button," he says with a smile. Felix also loves taking photos of his adventures. Each picture is more than a memory; it is a reminder of the calm and happiness he finds in nature.

Antoney Achayo, one of the organizers of such trips, says that these adventures have helped boost tourism and even generated income for him. He has turned his passion for travel into a business, helping others experience the joy of adventure. But for him, it is about more than just making money. "I’ve seen how these trips change lives," he says. "People come back feeling refreshed and ready to take on their challenges." He carefully plans each trip, making sure everything runs smoothly. For Antony, this is not just a job—it is a way to bring people together and create lasting memories.

“It is also a way of supporting our local tourism. We started doing the travel locally, visiting our tourist attraction centers. We went to places like the Giraffe Centre and the Nairobi National Park. We have also hiked in the beautiful hills of Voi and Mt. Kenya,” he notes.

However, rising costs are making it harder for many people to afford these trips. Fuel, food, and accommodation have all become more expensive. Antony worries about this. "People still want to travel," he says, "but they have to think carefully about the cost. Sometimes, it’s just too expensive." Trying to balance all the bills and adding a cost for leisure needs sacrifice; you just have to leave some bills or save for the adventure.

Even with these challenges, the spirit of adventure remains strong. Young Kenyans are still looking for ways to escape, connect, and find happiness, even in difficult times. They are building friendships, creating memories, and finding peace in nature. Through these shared experiences, they are not just exploring the world, they are discovering themselves.