I Rode a Motorbike from Nairobi to Turkana for 10 Day; Here's What Surprised Me 

For many Kenyans, spending Ksh100,000 on a road trip within the country may sound excessive. However, a growing number of Kenyans are saving, planning and even quitting their comfort zones in pursuit of something they believe is worth every shilling.

For them, it is all about experiences. This is the case of Nairobi-based travel creator Vinsoul, who in 2025 spent 10 days riding a motorbike to Turkana. During his 10-day journey, he traversed Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Marsabit, Samburu and Turkana counties. 

In Turkana, he was able to visit Eliye Springs, Kalokol, cross Lake Turkana and reach Nadapal at the border between Kenya and South Sudan. By the time he was done, he was done with the journey; he had covered 2,500 kilometres, just to see a part of Kenya that many people never visit.

For him, the trip was never just about getting to Turkana.

Also Read: “We Spend Our Hard-Earned Money Just to Get Tired” Nairobi's Hiking Obsession

"I was inspired by travel creators like Yes Theory, Bald and Bankrupt, and I Am Marwa, who travel the world experiencing cultures beyond their own backyards," he told Money254.co.ke.

"For a long time, I wanted to explore Northern Kenya because very few people travel there, and many people view places like Turkana as difficult or even unsafe to visit."

Instead of driving or flying, he chose a motorbike as a personal challenge that pushed him out of his comfort zone and also allowed him to experience a part of Kenya that is often overlooked.

The gamble paid off. The adventure, however, came at a price.

Hiring a motorbike for ten days cost Ksh45,000. Fuel for the 2,500-kilometre journey came to Ksh15,500. Crossing Lake Turkana cost another Ksh20,000, while camping, food and water added about Ksh20,000 more. An accident that left him with a fractured leg also meant spending Ksh7,500 repairing the bike.

By the end of the trip, the total bill stood at roughly Ksh110,000. Yet Vinsoul doesn't believe travel has to be expensive.

To keep costs manageable, he stays in budget guesthouses, campsites and, whenever possible, with locals.

"I don't usually focus on a fixed budget because travel is both my passion and my full-time job. Being adaptable is one of the best ways to travel affordably while still having authentic experiences,” he stated.

Along the way, he says he has discovered a side of the country that many Kenyans rarely get to experience. For him, Kenya offers far more than wildlife parks and coastal beaches.

Also Read: More Than a Morning Run: Why Nairobi is Obsessed with Running Clubs

"Travelling across Kenya has taught me that the country is far more diverse and beautiful than most people realise. I have travelled to nearly every county, and each region has its own unique culture, landscapes and way of life."

His advice to anyone who dreams of travelling but worries about the cost is surprisingly simple.

"Don't wait until you have a lot of money to start travelling. You can explore Kenya with the little you have as long as you budget well and prioritise experiences over comfort."

He believes many people spend too much on accommodation instead of the journey itself. In fact, some of his favourite trips came after spending as little as Ksh200 a night on accommodation.

"Start small, use public transport when possible, stay flexible, and you'll be surprised how much of Kenya you can see on a tight budget."

On why many people are now into travelling and exploring the country, he believes social media has changed how young people think about travel.

Also Read: Why Chia Seeds Are Becoming a Health Trend in Kenya

"I think more young Kenyans are embracing travel and adventure today because of increased exposure through social media and content creators who are showing that travel is possible, even on a budget."

For Vinsoul, travelling has also evolved from a hobby into a part of his livelihood.

He now earns through brand partnerships, sponsored collaborations and YouTube AdSense, while also working as an Afro Tech DJ and running other business ventures.

"Having multiple income streams gives me the flexibility to continue exploring, creating, and pursuing the experiences I'm passionate about."

But perhaps his biggest adventure is still ahead. Later this year, he plans to embark on what he calls Last Ride Across Kenya, a 30-day expedition covering every county and documenting it on his Vinsoulworld YouTube channel.