KENYA TRAVEL GUIDE

The following are travel information and guides when travelling to Kenya for a safari or holiday.

  1. Application for Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) formerly Visa

The Ministry of Interior and National Administration, State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services, Directorate of Immigration Services has developed and is operating the Republic of Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

Kenya eTA is a semi-automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to Kenya. An eTA offers permission to travel and is authorized by the Government of the Republic of Kenya. The possession of an eTA is not the final authority to enter the Republic of Kenya. Admissibility will be determined at the point of entry.

The eTA application collects biographic information and answers to eligibility questions from the traveller. ETA applications for Kenya should be submitted at least 2 weeks prior to travel to ensure adequate time for processing. Travelers can submit their applications up to 3 months prior to travel. It is highly recommended that travellers apply as soon as they have booked their accommodations and transport tickets.

Persons who are exempt from obtaining the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)

  1. Holders of valid Kenya Passports or one-way Emergency Certificate issued by Kenya Missions abroad.
  2. Holders of Kenya Permanent Residence, valid Work Permits and Passes.
  3. Holders of valid United Nation Conventional Travel Document issued by the Government of Kenya.
  4. Members of the Diplomatic Missions and International Organisations Accredited to Kenya.
  5. Citizens of the East African Partner States; These countries include Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda. (Exempted for Six (6) months)
  6. All passengers in transit through Kenya arriving and leaving by the same aircraft or transferring to another aircraft and who do not leave the precincts of Airports in Kenya.
  7. All passengers arriving and leaving by the same ship, and who do not leave the ship.
  8. Members of crew of any ship, aircraft, train, vehicle or carrier; whose name and particulars are included in the crew manifest of the ship, aircraft, train, vehicle or carrier; and who is proceeding in such ship, aircraft, train, vehicle or carrier to a destination outside Kenya.
  9. Owners of private aircraft stopping over for refuelling in Kenya and who do not leave the precincts of the airport.

Each eligible traveler is required to apply for an eTA before starting travel. It is mandatory to use the Government’s official website to submit your application. Applications submitted via third party websites will be automatically denied. For children under the age of 18, the legal guardian, parent or accompanying adult is responsible for filling the application.

Benefits of Kenya eTA system

  • Kenya eTA enables travelers to submit all relevant information and documentation from the comfort of their homes before starting their trip. Travelers can enjoy peace of mind knowing that they meet the requirements for travel to Kenya.
  • Travelers do not need to fill out forms on the plane or upon arrival.
  • Transport carriers can easily verify that travelers have been authorized to travel by the Government of the Republic of Kenya and are in possession of an approved eTA.
  • Kenya eTA will improve arrival processes into the Republic of Kenya by reducing the queues on arrival for health, customs, and immigration inspections.
  • Kenya eTA supports the efforts of the Republic of Kenya to digitize its government processes.

For more information and application

Monetary Provision and Payments in Kenya

In Kenya, the currency you’ll be dealing with is the Kenyan Shilling (KSH). Travellers will find that major credit cards such as MasterCard, Visa, and American Express are widely honoured across establishments. It’s advisable to exchange money only when necessary for optimal value, with Forex Bureaus offering some of the best rates. In a move towards curbing corruption, June 2019 saw Kenya introduce new banknotes in denominations of KSh 50, KSh 100, KSh 200, KSh 500, and KSh 1,000.

When it comes to shopping facilities like supermarkets and beyond, rest assured your credit card is a convenient option. ATMs in various banks allow withdrawals using Visa cards—even dispensing dollars—eliminating the need to carry substantial cash.

Kenyan Roads

Venture beyond Nairobi’s borders via well-maintained tarmacked roads leading seamlessly to safari adventures. The country boasts commendable road conditions that continue to advance; however, be prepared for occasional construction work. While most roads are maintained diligently throughout Kenya’s landscape—forging farther from city hubs introduces more rugged terrain—weather can also dictate ease of travel on these paths. Within game parks and reserves expect reasonable road quality navigable by two-wheel drive cars; albeit challenging during rainy spells where four-wheel drives perform admirably better. Remote locales necessitate robust four-wheel-drive vehicles to traverse safely into untamed territories.

4. Vaccination Requirements for Kenya Travelers

If you’re planning a journey to Kenya and are arriving from regions where Yellow Fever is prevalent, it’s essential to have your Yellow Fever vaccination certificate ready. This requirement extends to those with long layovers in airports located in affected countries.

For travellers coming directly from non-endemic areas such as the USA, Europe, or Japan, Yellow Fever vaccination isn’t mandatory upon entering Kenya – a nation classified by the World Health Organisation as carrying low risk for this virus (according to their 2015 update). However, since the mosquito that spreads Yellow Fever exists here, there remains a slim possibility of an outbreak if introduced.

To ensure smooth entry into Kenya without any hitches at immigration checkpoints, visitors inbound from endemic zones must present their valid yellow fever certificates. If you happen to pass through these regions during transit and leave their airport premises en route to Kenya, make sure your documentation is up-to-date; otherwise, vaccinations can be administered on arrival for an additional fee.

5. Electricity Information for Your Stay in Kenya

When it comes to powering your devices in Kenya, you’ll encounter Type G power plugs and sockets—akin to those used in Britain—with specifications of 240 V standard voltage and 50 Hz frequency. If your home country operates within this voltage range (notably the UK, most of Asia and Africa), plugging in should pose no problem.

However, visitors hailing from places like North America or several South American nations using voltages between 100 V – 127 V will need either a voltage converter or consider investing in both a plug adapter combined with conversion capabilities while visiting our beautiful country.

See some examples below of what you’ll need:
Type G: Originating from British design standards; only compatible with plug type G.
Ensure readiness by procuring suitable adaptors beforehand!

    Travel adapter sample travel adaptor.

6. Safari Packing Essentials

When preparing for your adventure, what you pack should be tailored to both the length and objectives of your journey. For a safari experience, prioritize clothing that is breathable and provides ease of movement. Keep in mind that weather conditions will heavily influence your attire choices. Given that laundry services can be quite costly at most hotels, it’s wise to bring along enough garments to last the duration of your stay. Additionally, remember that local flights often have strict baggage weight restrictions; thus, lightweight packing is crucial. Soft-sided luggage is typically required by many regional airlines.

As for footwear, opt for shoes offering ample comfort since you’ll likely encounter rocky, thorny terrains or uneven paths—sturdy boots are recommended if you plan on trekking through the bush lands on foot. Lightweight sandals can also serve well during less rugged explorations.

It’s important to note that topless sunbathing isn’t allowed on Kenya’s beaches; therefore, appropriate swimwear is a must-pack item. Furthermore, consider including semi-formal wear like trousers or polo shirts alongside elegant dresses so you can partake in romantic dinners at your beachside retreat with style and grace.

What to pack

  • short-sleeve or t-shirts
  •  shorts
  • long-sleeve shirts (for protection from both sun and mosquitoes)
  •  cotton trousers or light pants
  •  jacket or fleece
  •  wide-brim hat with an under-chin tie (to stop it being blown off in open-top vehicles)
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Lightweight sandals or flip flops (for wearing around the camp)
  • Swimwear (for camps and lodges with a pool)
  • Cotton socks and underwear
  • Buff or, scarf or bandana (good for dust)
  • Sunglasses with polarised lenses  (the glare can be intense)
  • Passport + a copy (keep in separate bags)
  • Camera, battery, extra battery and plenty of memory cards
  • Chargers (for camera and phone) and a power adaptor
  •  Sunscreen Lip balm
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Malaria prophylaxis
  • Good binoculars (at least 8 x 30 magnification)
  • Small torch
  • Toiletries (remember the lodges will have shampoos, soaps etc)
  • A pack of wet wipes or hand sanitiser
  • Cash for tips (including driver and guide)

7. Game Trophies:

In Kenya, the sale of products made from wild animals is strictly prohibited. This includes items like hides and skins, rhinoceros horn, elephant-hair bracelets, and crocodile handbags. It’s important to note that ivory is also not legally available for purchase in Kenya.

8. Travel Insurance:

When planning a trip to Kenya—whether it be for leisure or business—securing travel insurance should be at the top of your list. A comprehensive travel insurance plan will protect you against common risks such as medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip cancellations, evacuations, and delays.

9. Languages and People:

Kenya is home to a rich tapestry of dialects and local languages with English serving as the official language while Swahili holds the status of national language. You’ll find that most Kenyans communicate well in English.

10. Medical Facilities:

Rest assured that most camps and lodges have a doctor on call should an emergency or common travel ailment arise during your stay. Additionally, Kenya offers exceptional healthcare facilities equipped to handle any situation.

11. Malaria Prevention:

To guard against malaria while visiting Kenya, take proactive measures such as wearing long sleeves and trousers after sunset, applying insect repellent on exposed skin, and using mosquito nets when necessary. Consult with your healthcare provider about appropriate antimalarial medication before traveling.

12. Souvenir Shopping:

Enrich your Kenyan adventure by exploring curio shops offering an array of lovely souvenir items—from intricate baskets and copper jewellery to batik cloths adorned with beads and carvings—and don’t miss out on acquiring some renowned Kenyan coffee or tea! However remember it’s advisable to carry all purchased goods with you due to potentially high shipping costs which may surpass the item’s value itself; conveniently enough most curio shops accept both cash payments as well as credit cards transactions.

13. When is the best time to visit Kenya

The ideal timing for a visit to Kenya is a common question for those planning a memorable holiday. Unfortunately, there’s no straightforward answer as several considerations come into play when deciding the best time for your Kenyan adventure.

Key factors include:

– School holidays, especially if you’re travelling with children.
– Your budget; be mindful that peak seasons tend to be more costly compared to low seasons.
– Your interests and preferred safari experiences.
– Personal availability in terms of vacation time.
– Weather conditions during different times of the year.

It’s essential to have an overview of what you can expect at various times throughout the year in Kenya.

Kenya’s tourism calendar is divided into three distinct seasons:

1. Shoulder Season (November – March)
This season features short rains from November to December, transitioning into dry spells from January through March. The weather remains warm, and hotel rates are moderately priced.

2. Low Season (April – June)
Characterised by heavy rainfall concluding in early June, this period offers the most economical hotel rates – perfect for budget-conscious travellers who don’t mind some showers.

3. Peak Season (July – October)
During these months, enjoy a prolonged dry spell coinciding with the spectacular Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra across the plains. Be prepared for heightened costs as this is also when accommodation prices are at their zenith.

Whether it’s witnessing nature’s grand spectacles or seeking more intimate encounters away from crowds, understanding these seasonal nuances will ensure every moment in Kenya aligns perfectly with your desires and expectations.

13. Weather through the year

January: Experience the warmth of January with hot days and balmy nights. This perfect climate makes it an ideal month for thrilling safaris, as well as exceptional diving and snorkelling adventures.

February: As the long dry season extends into February, expect minimal vegetation and wildlife drawn to watering holes. It remains an excellent time for a safari, especially when staying at hotels conveniently located near these water sources.

March: March ushers in hot and humid weather. Enjoy prime conditions for diving and snorkelling as we enter this transitional period before the rains begin.

April: With lower temperatures accompanied by heavy rainfall, April calls for using 4×4 jeeps on safari expeditions. Predators tend to avoid wet grasslands in favour of established tracks during this month.

May: Rainfall still persist. The lush greenery of May offers brilliant opportunities for photography enthusiasts. Grazers spread across expansive parks, while predators stealthily lurk within tall grasses.

June: Rainfall subsides come June, revealing comfortably cool, cloudy skies—particularly pleasant in highland areas. Be on the lookout towards month’s end when wildebeest migration may commence.

July: July is Kenya’s coolest month; it’s also bustling with tourists eager to witness wildebeest arrivals from Serengeti into Masai Mara—a spectacle not to be missed! Safari costs at the peak

August: Revel in agreeable temperatures throughout August’s mostly dry spell—the Masai Mara teems with wildebeests and zebras providing dynamic game viewing action that draws large crowds seeking accommodations early due its popularity. Safari costs still high

September: Welcome September’s gentle transition into drier weather amidst dwindling rain prospects alongside continued exhilarating game encounters at both Masai Mara & broader Kenyan landscapes brimming full-on wildlife excitement! Safari costs still high.

October: This month offers mild showers, creating an opportune time for those wishing to travel without the hustle of large crowds, while still enjoying superb wildlife sightings. Although the migratory herds are departing from the Masai Mara, substantial resident animal populations remain present. During this period, all other destinations in Kenya also promise outstanding experiences and it’s a prime season for diving and snorkelling.

November: The onset of short rains is accompanied by warmer temperatures. Despite the heavier skies, exceptional game viewing remains possible and various activities proceed uninterrupted. With fewer tourists around, November presents opportunities for favourable deals.

December: As we close out the year, conditions can be hot with intermittent rainfalls. Nonetheless, it remains a fantastic time for observing wildlife; Lake Nakuru hosts impressive bird populations that add to the spectacle.

14. Security/safety in Kenya

Embarking on a journey to Kenya promises both adventure and tranquillity, as it is predominantly a safe destination for traveller. Incidents involving tourists are remarkably rare; however, like any developing nation, it’s prudent to remain vigilant against minor offences. To enhance your security experience, adhere to the guidance offered by your safari experts or hotel personnel. It’s wise to travel light when it comes to flashy jewellery and substantial cash sums; most accommodations provide secure storage options for cherished belongings.

The Kenyan people are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness—traits you’ll likely encounter throughout your stay.

While you partake in unforgettable safaris, always heed the wisdom of your driver guides and respect the established park regulations.

Kenya proudly hosts a dedicated tourist police force whose sole mission is ensuring visitors’ safety. In addition, the Kenya Tourism Federation offers round-the-clock surveillance of visitor welfare while maintaining close collaboration with local security forces.

Rest assured that every measure is taken so you can focus fully on creating unforgettable memories amidst Kenya’s stunning landscapes.