Christmas is synonymous with the family coming together for some fun activities and food. For some, it is a chance that comes only once a year to have the whole family together and catch up. However, Christmas is also infamous for blotted expenses and travel hassles that are really annoying, to say the least. Furthermore, most prime venues such as beach resorts and lodges are usually sold out and where accommodation is available the rate is at least double what it usually is. So what do you do when such seemingly insurmountable obstacles come between you and your ideal family Christmas holiday? Well, here are 7 last-minute Christmas plans for you and your family.
1. The Forest

The Forest should be on anyone’s bucket list for places to visit in Kenya. It is located in Kereita Forest in the Aberdare Ranges. If outdoor activities with the family seem like something to tickle your fancy, then The Forest is definitely the place to be this Christmas. Join dad’s team or mom’s team and go head to head in a paintballing match. Conquer your fear of heights with ziplining or show off your hand-eye coordination in a game of archery. And if you want to really get into it go camping or mountain bike riding. All this under one forest canopy.
2. Nairobi National Park

Honestly, Kenyans almost take it for granted that there is a national park in the backyard of the capital city. In 20 or so minutes one could quite easily leave the urban jungle and be on a wild safari in the real jungle. See if you can keep up with the fast cheetah or simply marvel at the strength and power of lions in the park. Cape buffalos, giraffes, and zebras are also quite easy to spot. That and many more wild animals in their most authentic state. Visiting Nairobi National Park especially for the first time on Christmas is one family trip no one will be forgetting anytime soon.
3. Panari Ice-skating Rink

The Panari ice-skating rink is probably the closest anyone living in Kenya will come to having winter on Christmas or any time of the year for that matter. The Solar Ice Rink is the only one of its kind in East and Central Africa. This is definitely another bucket list item for things to do in Kenya. Speaking of bucket list here 9 Bucket List Items To Complete in Africa. 60 minutes skating on the ice will cost you KES 700/- for kids below 14 years of age and KES 900/- for 15 and over. Such a unique Christmas experience for the family at such affordable rates.
4. Rock Climbing at Diamond Plaza

This perhaps appeals to a very niche group of rock climbing enthusiasts. However, it is not as extreme as it sounds as it is all set up in an indoors colorful facility and completely safe. It can be a good way to get introduced to the rock climbing community and culture or perhaps just something new to try. Further still, one can rent out the place for private parties. Christmas parties. Blue Sky Kenya which is a group of rock climbing enthusiasts manage the facility and even organize trips to places like Hell’s Gate and Suswa.
5. Bowling at the Village Market

Another unique way for one to spend the 25th day of December. Cosmic bowling at the village market is set in dark ambient lighting and dance music to really capture the bowling culture. This can be a chance to learn a new sport and also to have fun competing with family and friends. After that, the Village Market has plenty of eateries and places to shop. Sounds like perfect fun on Christmas.
Well, there are 5 last-minute plans for