KENYA

Kenya, a land of extraordinary natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, sits on Africa’s eastern coast. From the iconic Maasai Mara’s vast savannas to Mount Kenya’s peaks and the Indian Ocean’s pristine beaches, its diverse geography is as captivating as its history, which spans ancient human origins, vibrant trade routes, and a proud journey to independence.

Region: East Africa

Capital: Nairobi

Official Language: Swahili, English

Level of Travel Safety: Exercise a high degree of caution due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime. Some border regions and specific urban neighborhoods are advised as “Do Not Travel” areas.

A map of Africa with Kenya highlighted in green.

Why Visit Kenya?

Incredible Wildlife: Go on a Big Five safari in Maasai Mara or Amboseli—see lions, elephants, and rhinos in the wild.

Great Migration: Experience the world’s largest wildlife migration in the Maasai Mara (July–October).

Breathtaking Landscapes: From Mount Kenya to the Great Rift Valley and savannahs to coastline, diversity abounds.

A stunning sunset over a savanna, with a bright orange sun low on the horizon and silhouettes of animals.

Rich Culture: Meet the Maasai, Samburu, and other communities—rich in tradition, color, and hospitality.

Coastal Paradise: Relax on white sand beaches in Diani, Watamu, or Lamu—with turquoise Indian Ocean waters.

Adventure & Nature: Hike Mount Kenya, bike through Hell’s Gate, or take a boat safari in Lake Naivasha.

A pristine white sand beach lined with numerous palm trees and clear blue water under a sunny sky.

Essential Trip Information

Entry requirements vary by nationality. Check your eligibility and apply via the official eVisa portal: https://evisa.go.ke

Most travelers require an electronic visa (eVisa), which should be obtained prior to arrival.

Passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

Proof of onward travel, accommodation, and sufficient funds may be required.

Visa cost: US$50 for single entry (prices may vary by visa type).

  • Kenya uses the Kenyan Shilling (KES). Approximate exchange rate: 1 USD = 130–150 KES.

Best Ways to Handle Currency:

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount of cash for immediate use.

  • During Your Trip: ATMs are widely available in cities and airports. Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most hotels, safari lodges, and restaurants.

  • What to Avoid: Avoid using currency exchange kiosks at airports and always decline dynamic currency conversion—choose to be charged in KES.

English and Swahili are both official languages.

English is widely spoken in cities and tourist areas.

Helpful phrases:

  • “Asante” = Thank you
  • “Habari?” = How are you?
  • “Karibu” = Welcome

Kenya is generally safe for tourists, but caution is advised:

  • Avoid walking alone at night in urban areas (especially Nairobi).
  • Watch for petty theft in busy markets or bus stations.
  • Be cautious of wildlife while on safari—always follow your guide’s instructions.

Emergency numbers: Police: 999 / Ambulance: 911

Yellow Fever vaccination may be required if coming from a country with risk.

Recommended: Typhoid, Hepatitis A, and anti-malarial medication (especially in coastal and rural areas).

Travel insurance is highly recommended.

Tap water is not safe to drink—use bottled or filtered water.

Pharmacies are available in major towns; for emergencies, Nairobi Hospital and Aga Khan Hospital offer international-standard care.

Domestic flights save time for long distances (e.g., Nairobi to Diani Beach).

Matatus are cheap and common, but often chaotic—better for adventurous travelers.

Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Uber/Bolt) are safe and affordable in cities.

Car hire with a driver is ideal for longer trips or safaris.

Road conditions can be poor in rural areas—4WD recommended.

Kenya offers excellent value for many travelers, especially outside luxury safaris.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Hostels or budget hotels: US$20–50/night

  • Mid-range: 2–3 star lodges or boutique hotels: US$60–150/night

  • Luxury: Safari lodges and 5-star resorts: US$300+/night

Food

  • Street food/local eateries: US$2–10

  • Casual restaurants: US$10–25/person

  • Upscale dining: US$40+/person

Drinks

  • Local beer (Tusker): US$1–3

  • Imported wines/cocktails: US$6–12

Transportation

  • Matatus (shared minibuses): US$0.30–1 per ride (very cheap but chaotic)

  • Taxis/Uber: US$3–15 for short rides

  • Private drivers/car hire: US$60+/day, especially for safaris or rural travel

  • Domestic flights (e.g., to Maasai Mara): US$100–300+

Money-Saving Tips

  • Travel off-season (April–June or November).

  • Join a group safari for lower rates.

  • Eat at local “nyama choma” joints or markets.

  • Use Uber or Bolt in Nairobi and Mombasa—cheaper and safer than regular taxis.

Explore Kenya

One of Africa’s most magnificent game reserves, it’s famous for the Great Migration (July-October) where millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse its plains. Located in southwestern Kenya, bordering Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park.

Crowned by the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, Amboseli is renowned for its large elephant herds and diverse ecosystems, including swamps and dry lake beds. It is situated in southern Kenya, near the Tanzanian border.

A unique wildlife sanctuary located just minutes from the bustling city center, offering remarkable opportunities to see lions, rhinos, giraffes, and more against a backdrop of skyscrapers. It is on the southern outskirts of Kenya’s capital, Nairobi.

A birdwatcher’s paradise, famous for its vast flocks of flamingos, as well as rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes, and various other wildlife. It is located in the Great Rift Valley, northwest of Nairobi.

Kenya’s largest park, divided into two distinct regions. Tsavo East offers open plains and red dust elephants, while Tsavo West boasts more varied landscapes, volcanic hills, and Mzima Springs. It lies midway between Nairobi and Mombasa, covering a vast area of southeastern Kenya.

A pristine white-sand beach on the Indian Ocean, known for its clear turquoise waters, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life, perfect for relaxation and water sports. It is located on Kenya’s south coast, south of Mombasa.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient Swahili town on Lamu Island offers a glimpse into traditional Swahili culture with its narrow alleyways, stone houses, and dhows. It is situated off the coast of northern Kenya.

Home to Mount Kenya, the second-highest peak in Africa, this park offers stunning alpine landscapes, diverse flora, and opportunities for hiking and climbing. It is located in central Kenya, east of the Great Rift Valley.Home to Mount Kenya, the second-highest peak in Africa, this park offers stunning alpine landscapes, diverse flora, and opportunities for hiking and climbing. It is located in central Kenya, east of the Great Rift Valley.

Found in Kenya’s remote northern region, Samburu is characterized by its arid landscapes and unique wildlife, including the “Samburu Special Five”: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx. It is on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River in northern Kenya.

A freshwater lake in the Great Rift Valley, known for its abundant birdlife, hippos, and Crescent Island Sanctuary, where you can walk among giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest. It is located northwest of Nairobi, within the Rift Valley.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices: Significant discounts on accommodation and safari packages.
  • Fewer Crowds: Enjoy popular parks and attractions with more privacy.
  • Lush, Green Landscapes: The rains transform the dry plains into vibrant, verdant scenery, ideal for photography.
  • Calving Season: A great time to witness newborn animals and associated predator action.
  • Excellent Birdwatching: Migratory birds arrive, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

Main Drawbacks:

  • Heavy Rainfall: Expect frequent, sometimes intense, afternoon downpours (Nairobi averages 7.5 inches/190 mm in April).
  • Muddy Roads: Some roads, especially in national parks, can become challenging to navigate.
  • Limited Outdoor Activities (Non-Safari): Beach activities may be less appealing, and some lodges might close.
  • Animals More Dispersed: Wildlife can be harder to spot due to thicker vegetation and abundant water sources.

Key Regions:

  • Masai Mara: Resident wildlife remains, and the lush green landscape offers unique photographic opportunities.
  • Amboseli National Park: Still good for elephant sightings against the backdrop of Kilimanjaro, even with rain.
  • Coastal Region (e.g., Mombasa): Can be very humid and receive heavy rains, less ideal for beach holidays.

Key Advantages:

  • Reasonable Prices: Better value than peak season, with good deals still available.
  • Manageable Crowds: A good balance between low and peak season visitor numbers.
  • Good Wildlife Viewing: Animals are still relatively easy to spot, especially as the short rains bring new grazing.
  • Mild Temperatures: Generally pleasant weather, with warm days and cooler nights.
  • Beautiful Sunsets: Clear skies after short rains can create dramatic sunsets.

Main Drawbacks:

  • Intermittent Rainfall (November-December): Expect short, localized showers, especially in the afternoons.
  • Hotter Temperatures (January-February): These months can be quite hot, particularly in coastal and lowland areas.
  • Some Humidity: The coast can be humid, even in the drier shoulder months.

Key Regions:

  • Masai Mara: Still excellent for resident wildlife, with the migration having largely departed or on its way.
  • Lake Nakuru National Park: Excellent for flamingo sightings, especially in October before the short rains.
  • Coastal Areas (e.g., Diani Beach): Still enjoyable, though occasional short rains can occur.
  • Samburu National Reserve: Good for seeing unique northern Kenya species.
  • Mid-June – October (Great Migration in Masai Mara)
  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period
  • Late January – February (Dry and hot, excellent game viewing)

Planning Your Trip

Greetings: A firm handshake and polite inquiry about one’s well-being are appreciated.

Respect for Elders: Elders are highly respected—greet them first.

Tipping: 10–15% at restaurants. US$5–10/day for safari guides and US$2–5/day for hotel staff is customary.

Dress Code: Modest attire in rural or Muslim coastal areas. Beachwear is fine at resorts, but not in public town areas.

Photography: Always ask before taking photos of people. Military buildings and government offices are off-limits.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: US$25–60 (hostels, local hotels)
  • Mid-range: US$100–200 (lodges, beach resorts)
  • Luxury: US$400+ (safari camps, all-inclusive)

Food:

  • Street food or local joints: US$3–7
  • Casual restaurant: US$10–20
  • Fine dining or resort meal: US$40+

Transport:

  • Matatus: US$1–3 short rides
  • Domestic flights: US$50–150
  • Taxi: US$5–15 per ride in cities

Activities:

  • National park entry: US$50–80/day
  • Game drives: US$50–150
  • Cultural tours: US$15–40

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$60–90 (local hotels, matatus, local eats)

  • Mid-range: US$150–250 (lodges, occasional domestic flights)

  • Luxury: US$400+ (high-end safari lodges, private guides)

SIM Cards:

  • Safaricom and Airtel offer wide coverage and affordable data.
  • SIM + 10GB data: ~US$10–15.
  • Buy at official shops (airport or malls) with passport ID.

Wi-Fi:

  • Free at most hotels, cafes, and Nairobi airports.
  • Speeds vary—city areas are faster than rural.

eSIMs:

  • Supported by Airalo, MTX Connect for travelers.

Highly recommended, especially for safaris or remote travel.

Ensure your policy covers:

  • Emergency evacuation (e.g., air ambulance from national parks)
  • Medical care (private hospitals in Kenya are good but costly)
  • Adventure activities like hot-air balloon rides, scuba diving, or trekking Mt. Kenya.
  • Theft or loss protection: Nairobi and Mombasa are generally safe but petty theft can occur.

Kenya offers a rich mix—from luxury safari lodges to coastal resorts and city hostels.

Luxury Lodges:

  • Giraffe Manor (Nairobi), Angama Mara (Masai Mara), or Elewana Collection.
  • Often all-inclusive with game drives and meals.

Mid-range Hotels:

  • Tamarind Tree (Nairobi), Voyager Beach Resort (Mombasa), Eka Hotel (Nairobi).
  • Comfortable, good service, usually include breakfast.

Budget Stays:

  • Nairobi: Kenya Comfort Hotel, Manyatta Backpackers.
  • Diani Beach: Stilts Treehouses or Diani Backpackers.

Airbnb/VRBO:

  • Affordable and ideal for groups—especially in Nairobi, Nanyuki, or Naivasha.

Safari Camps:

  • En-suite tented camps in national parks offer immersive experiences. Check if they include park fees.

Tip: Book safaris and lodges well in advance during peak migration season (July–October).

Traveling in Kenya can be a mix of convenience and adventure, depending on your itinerary.

Domestic Flights:

  • Efficient and time-saving for long distances (e.g., Nairobi to Masai Mara or Mombasa).
  • Airlines: SafariLink, Jambojet, AirKenya.

Matatus (shared minibuses):

  • Colorful, affordable, but chaotic—not ideal for tourists unfamiliar with the system.

Buses & Shuttles:

  • Modern coach services (e.g., Modern Coast, Easy Coach) connect major cities.

  • Comfortable and reliable for longer distances.

Taxis & Rideshares:

  • Uber and Bolt available in Nairobi and Mombasa.

  • Always confirm fares or use apps to avoid overcharging.

Car Rentals:

  • Best for experienced drivers or with a local guide.

  • Roads vary greatly—4×4 is a must for rural and safari areas.

Boda-bodas (motorbike taxis):

  • Common in small towns but can be risky. Use with caution.

Walking:

  • Safe in city centers during daylight, especially in Nairobi’s Karen or Westlands districts. Avoid walking at night.

Handy Tips

Kenya uses the Kenyan Shilling (KES). Notes come in 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 denominations; coins include 1, 5, 10, 20, and 40 shillings.

Exchanging Currency: Avoid changing money at airports or hotels—rates are better at local banks or ATMs in major cities.

Using Cards: Credit/debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted at hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets in Nairobi and Mombasa, but cash is king in rural areas or local markets.

Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory.

  • Restaurants: 5–10% is customary if a service charge isn’t included.
  • Taxis: Round up the fare.
  • Safari Guides/Drivers: US$10–15 per day per person is expected.
  • Hotel Porters: US$1–2 per bag; housekeeping: US$2–3 per night.

English and Swahili (Kiswahili) are both official languages in Kenya.

  • Common phrases:

    • “Habari?” – How are you?

    • “Asante” – Thank you

    • “Ninauliza bei gani?” – How much is it?

    • “Choo kiko wapi?” – Where is the bathroom?

Pro Tip: Learn a few Swahili greetings—locals are warm and genuinely appreciate the effort!

Kenya is generally safe for tourists, especially in popular areas like Nairobi, Mombasa, the Maasai Mara, and Diani Beach, but take precautions:

  • Avoid isolated areas after dark.

  • Beware of petty theft in crowded areas and public transport.

  • Always use licensed taxis or reputable rideshare apps (like Bolt or Uber).

Emergency Numbers:

  • Police: 999 or 112

  • Ambulance/Medical: 999

  • Fire Brigade: 999

  • Tourist Police: Available in major cities and parks.

Kenya uses 240V/50Hz electricity with Type G plugs (UK-style three-pin plug).

Bring a travel adapter if you’re coming from the US or Europe.

No voltage converter is needed for most modern electronics (phones, laptops)

Tap water is not safe to drink in most parts of Kenya—stick to bottled or filtered water.

Avoid ice in drinks unless at high-end restaurants/hotels.

Brush your teeth with bottled water to be safe.

Many shops and businesses close on public holidays, especially in smaller towns:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • Feb/Mar (variable): Good Friday & Easter Monday

  • 1 May: Labour Day

  • 1 Jun: Madaraka Day (Self-Governance Day)

  • 10 Oct: Huduma Day

  • 20 Oct: Mashujaa (Heroes) Day

  • 12 Dec: Jamhuri Day (Independence Day)

  • 25 Dec: Christmas Day

  • 26 Dec: Boxing Day

Note: Ramadan and Eid are widely observed by Kenya’s Muslim community, especially at the coast.

Malls & supermarkets: 08:00–21:00, daily

Local shops: Typically 08:30–19:00, with shorter hours on Sundays

Maasai Markets: Rotate locations in Nairobi (e.g., Tuesdays at Prestige Plaza, Saturdays at Village Market)

Nyama Choma: Kenya’s iconic grilled meat—usually goat or beef—served with kachumbari (tomato-onion salad).

Ugali: Cornmeal porridge and Kenya’s staple starch—perfect with stews or greens.

Sukuma Wiki: Collard greens sautéed with onions and tomatoes—a side dish found everywhere.

Samaki wa Kupaka: Coconut-marinated fish grilled and served with rice—coastal specialty.

Mutura: Kenyan-style blood sausage often sold by roadside grills—smoky, spicy, and bold.

Githeri: Simple but hearty mix of maize and beans—comfort food in central Kenya.

Mandazi: Slightly sweet, fried dough triangles—ideal for breakfast or a snack.

Bhajia: Indian-influenced fried potato slices with chili and lime—popular street food.

Chapati: Flaky, pan-fried flatbread served with stews or eaten on its own.

Pilau: Fragrant spiced rice with beef or chicken—aromatic and deeply satisfying.

Mahamri: Coconut-infused doughnuts—especially popular on the coast.

Kaimati: Syrupy Swahili dough balls—crunchy on the outside, gooey inside.

Sweet Banana Fritters: Ripe bananas fried in light batter—drizzled with honey or sugar.

Alcoholic:

  • Tusker Lager: Kenya’s national beer—light, crisp, and brewed since 1922.

  • White Cap Lager: A stronger, maltier alternative to Tusker—locally loved.

  • Senator Keg: Affordable draught beer commonly served in local bars.

  • Kenya Cane: Local sugarcane-based spirit—best mixed with soda.

  • Muratina: Traditional Kikuyu alcoholic drink made from fermented fruit.

  • South African Wine: Widely imported and available at upscale restaurants and wine bars.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Chai ya Tangawizi: Kenyan spiced tea with ginger and milk—ubiquitous and soul-warming.

  • Madafu: Fresh coconut water straight from the shell—perfect on the coast.

  • Sugarcane Juice: Pressed on the streets and served with lemon or ginger.

  • Stoney Tangawizi: Local ginger soda—spicy, fizzy, and refreshing.

  • Passion Fruit Juice: Fresh-squeezed and often homemade—vibrant and tropical.

  • Mursik: Fermented milk traditionally prepared by the Kalenjin people.

Bomas of Kenya – A showcase of Kenya’s 40+ ethnic groups with music and dance.

Karen Blixen Museum – Former home of the Out of Africa author.

Fort Jesus (Mombasa) – UNESCO World Heritage site from the Portuguese era.

Kitengela Glass – An art haven with recycled glass sculptures.

Lamu Old Town – Swahili culture preserved in a car-free island town.

The Maasai People – Engage with local communities on cultural tours.

Kisumu Museum – Learn about Luo traditions and Lake Victoria biodiversity.

Railway Museum (Nairobi) – Fascinating colonial history through locomotives.

Uhuru Gardens – Kenya’s independence monument and national museum.

Kenya National Archives – A treasure trove of historical documents and art in downtown Nairobi.

Safari Game Drives – Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo offer thrilling Big Five safaris.

Beach Days – Powdery sands in Diani, Watamu, and Malindi.

Hiking Mount Longonot – A dormant volcano with stunning views of the Rift Valley.

Giraffe Centre (Nairobi) – Get up close with endangered Rothschild giraffes.

Nairobi National Park – Wildlife just minutes from the city center.

Kazuri Beads Workshop – A women-led ceramics collective.

Live Music at Alchemist – Nairobi’s trendy outdoor venue.

Kenya National Theatre – Catch local plays and performances.

Maasai Market – Shop for handmade crafts, be ready to haggle!

Nairobi Arboretum – A peaceful nature escape in the city.

Alchemist Bar (Nairobi): Hip open-air venue with DJs, food trucks, and fashion pop-ups.

Hemingways Bar (Karen): Upscale cocktails with views of the Ngong Hills.

Nyama Mama (Westlands): Trendy Afro-fusion bar with signature cocktails like “Mama’s Mule.”

K1 Klubhouse: Sunday flea market + reggae beats—Westlands crowd favorite.

Havana Bar: Cuban-themed bar in Nairobi with mojitos and salsa dancing.

Forty Thieves (Diani Beach): Iconic beachfront bar—cocktails with waves and sunsets.

Tapas Ceviche Bar (Lavington): Cocktails meet tapas—chic and intimate.

The Nest at Tribe Hotel: Rooftop glam with skyline views and international mixology.

Brew Bistro: Nairobi microbrewery with craft beer flights and gourmet burgers.

Club Hypnotica (Nairobi CBD): Late-night dance club popular with young locals and expats.