The grand day of love is finally upon us, and what better way to celebrate it than to spend time with someone you love? Most people shy away from Valentine’s Day celebrations on account of saving money. But what if I told you you could have a beautiful romantic day and still save your pocket the stress? Here are some affordable yet very romantic ways to show your love this Valentine’s Day.

1. Picnicking at Lord Egerton’s Castle

I picked Lord Egerton’s Castle because of the love story that goes with it. Though tragic, the story behind the establishment of this palace centres on love. When Lord Egerton fell in love, he built a 4 bedroomed bungalow hoping to marry and settle in with his love interest there. Now the castle and its grounds are state properties that act as a museum of sorts for local and foreign visitors. Entrance fees to the grounds are between KES 150-200 per person. With such friendly prices, you can simply carry a basket of home-cooked foods, and spend an affordable yet romantic Valentine’s Day with your loved one.

2. Art Appreciation at Banana Hill Art Gallery

If you love African Art and supporting local talent, then this might be an excellent idea for an affordable yet romantic Valentine’s Day. Limuru has various art galleries, but the Banana Hill Art Gallery takes the cake. This space offers you a chance to see and experience multiple art collections, mostly created by Kenyan artists. Visiting the gallery is free, which makes this destination even better. However, you can choose to mark the special day with an art piece purchase for your loved one. The gallery is also a great spot for photos and conversations. There is an ongoing art exhibition by one of the contributing artists running until March. So find your way there and have a lovely day.

3. Nature Walk at Crescent Island Naivasha

I think Crescent Island is a hugely underrated destination. Imagine walking with and among wild animals as you would with people on the streets. Beautiful animals such as zebras, antelopes, and giraffes, with the occasional hippo, monkey, and bird. What could be more romantic than that? This beautiful site located on Lake Naivasha is just a 90-minute drive from Nairobi or Nakuru. The entrance fee for Kenyan Citizens is only KES 800 per person. You then get to experience the animals at a very close range, take photos, and have a grand time. You can also sit and relax as you wait for the sunset across the lake as the hippos come out to graze. The island also offers picnic and camping grounds. If you are a nature lover looking for affordable yet romantic Valentine’s Day activities, then this might be perfect for you.

4. Nyama Choma at Kikopey

Some girls love trinkets and trips abroad, and others want a plate of tasty food in front of them. If your partner is the latter kind, then consider spending time at Kikopey. This timeless spot offers some of the best Nyama Choma options in the country. Located in Gilgil, Nakuru County, Kikopey gives you a chance of being in the outdoors with your valentine affordably. The general ambience of the place is casual and quiet, so you can spend the whole afternoon sharing a good meal and making beautiful memories. The best part is its suitable location for people coming from either side of it.

5. Ziplining at Kompas Ngong Hills

This one is for the adrenaline junkies and those with a love for the outdoors. Kompas Ngong is an outdoor sports facility with very friendly prices and fun activities. Ziplining is amongst them. The spot offers you 200 M worth of airborne fun, breathtaking views, and incredible thrill. All these for just 1000 bob per head. Apart from that, the grounds also offer archery at 1000 bob, bike riding at KES 500, and hiking the hills at 200 bob. With these kinds of prices, Kompas offers a great affordable and romantic Valentine’s Day option, especially for couples that may lack the time or chance to travel outside the city.

You do not have to go bankrupt to celebrate love. You just have to be present and intentional. Thankfully, our bountiful country gives us the opportunity to do just that. Pick any of these affordable yet romantic Valentine’s Day activities and have a memorable day with your dear one.