Kenya Visa Information, Safari Tips, Travel Guidelines
Major Airports in Kenya
The following are the main airports in Kenya;
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Nairobi
Moi International Airprot (MBA), Mombasa
Kisumu Airport, Kisumu
Eldoret Airport, Eldoret
Wilson Airport, Nairobi Click Here for Airport Transfers in Kenya Airports
Banking in Kenya
Kenya has a relatively modern banking system. Some of the major international banks that operate in Kenya include Barclays Bank, Standard Chartered, Kenya Commercial Bank, and CitiBank.
Most of these banks have Automated Teller Machines (ATMs). Bank services are most reliable in the major towns in comparison with the countryside. It is therefore advisable to get cash from the major cities. Most banks are generally open from 0900 hours to 1500 hours, from Monday to Friday and from 0900 hours to 1100 hours on Saturdays (the first and last Saturday of the month).
Climate of Kenya
Generally, Kenya has 2 wet seasons – the long rains that occur between April and June and the short rains that happen between November and December. The coldest months are July and August and the hottest January and February.
For the higher, interiors regions, temperatures vary between 25 degrees C for the day and 10 for the night. For the lower, coastal regions, between 30 degrees C for the day and 15 degrees C during the night. The coastal region has higher humidity levels.
The capital city of Nairobi enjoys 12 hours of pleasant sunshine most of the year. The sun rises daily at around 0600 hours and sets at around 1800 hours.
For the higher areas standing at 2000 metres above sea level, the mornings and evenings can be very cold.
Clothing for Kenya Travel
It is advisable to carry casual and comfortable clothing. For travelers to different parts of Kenya, dressing in layers is an effective way of dealing with the variations in temperatures.
While on a Kenya safari, some of the clothing items to consider packing include casual, light cotton cloths, comfortable walking shoes, swimming suites and T-shirts. Some safari lodges like Mount Kenya Safari club and even some restaurants prescribe a dressing code for dinner, requiring diners to wear formal - gentlemen to wear Jacket. Jeans, T-shirts and sports shoes may not be allowed.
Visitors to Kenya’s coastal towns of Mombasa, Malindi, Watamu and Lamu, which are predominantly Moslem, are advise to show respect to the locals by wearing conservative clothing. Ladies should not wear clothes that are too revealing or too tight.
Use of Credit Cards in Kenya
The use of credit cards for payment is fairly wide. Most of the hotels, lodges, restaurants and shops accept credit cards. The major credit cards acceptable in Kenya are Master Card, Visa, American Express. Establishments will clearly display the types of cards they accept.
Currency of Kenya
The official currency is the Kenya Shilling (Kshs) which is divided into 100 cents.
Bank notes currently available in the following denominations: Kshs1,000, Kshs500, Kshs200, Kshs100 and Kshs50. Coins are Kshs40, Kshs20, Kshs10, Kshs5, and Kshs1.
Visa and Passport Requirements for Kenya Travel
Most visitors to Kenya require visas with exception of citizens of certain countries of the Commonwealth. The regulations also vary depending on the nationality of the traveler. Some requirements may also change from time to time. It is best to contact the local Kenyan diplomatic authority for advise.
Your passport must be valid until 3 months after your anticipated travel in Kenya. You must have a blank page for each country you will visit. Most visitors require visas with the exception of citizens of certain countries of the Commonwealth or otherwise. It is advisable to obtain visas in advance, from Embassies and High Commissions as several airlines insist on them prior to departure. For most European and USA and north American citizens, Kenya Visa can also be obtained at the point of entry into Kenya -airports or border point, provided all other travel papers are in order. Click Here for Kenya Safaris
Customs and Excise Duty Regulations in Kenya
Most personal effects, perfumes, cameras, films, laptops etc may be brought temporarily into Kenya by travelers duty free. However, professional filming and video equipment, tape recorders, musical instruments etc may require a customs bond to ensure they are re-exported at the end of the visit.
Entry of fire arms into Kenya requires a special permit which should be obtained in advance. Kenyan custom officials stationed at the entry points – airports, border posts and sea-ports will normally inspect baggage.
Drinking Water in Kenya
Drinking tap water is discouraged. Instead drink bottled water that is available for purchase in most places. If doing a Kenya safari, most hotels and lodges will provide bottled water in the rooms.
Driving/ Road Travel in Kenya
Driving in Kenya is on the LEFT. Visitors to Kenya who want to hire vehicles on self-drive must be in possession of a valid driving license. It is easy to rent a car in Kenya.
Seat belts should be worn at all times. Traffic lights work in major towns. Sometimes drivers and pedestrians do not obey the traffic lights. Always stay alert while driving for both erratic drivers and pedestrians.
Electricity in Kenya
The voltage usage in Kenya is 240 volts, AC and plugs with three round or square pins. Adaptors are available at some hotel receptions – but it might be advisable to carry one yourself. A small deposit may be required as security when you borrow the adaptor. This deposit is refundable upon return of the adaptor. Most safari lodges use generators for electricity. The generators are then switched off during the night.
Emergency Numbers
For Ambulance and Fire Bridage call :999
For Police call 20 335 124 or 20 240 000
Foreign Exchange
There are plenty on places to exchange money – airports, banks and forex bureau. The exchange rates will vary but the forex bureau provide better rates – generally. The exchange rate is normally displayed and the tellers are professionals. Avoid changing money on the streets as this is dangerous and illegal.
Health Issues for Kenya Travel
Kenya is generally a healthy destination. However, general concerns that a traveler would take while traveling anywhere should be taken. Malaria remains endemic in most of the lower altitude areas, therefore anti-malaria precautions should be followed according to a GPs advise.
Precaution should be taken against HIV/Aids at all times. Protection against the hot African sun is advisable through use of hats and sunscreen cream. Use insect repellants in the evenings especially if undertaking a safari.
Most good hotels and safari lodges in Kenya will have a doctor on call. It is however advisable to pack sufficient supplies of your special medication as some medications or same generics may not be available.
Medical Facilities in Kenya
Medical services are fairly good in Nairobi and other major centers in Kenya. Some of the major hospitals and medical centers in Nairobi are Nairobi Hospital, Aga Khan Hospital, Kenyatta National Hospital, Mater Hospital, MP Shah Hospital, Getrudes Children’s Hospital and Nairobi Women’s Hospital.
Travelers who may need specialized personal medication should bring it along. Hospitals charge fees of any treatment therefore a travel insurance is highly recommended. Most good hotels in Kenya have a list of doctors.
We would strongly recommend that tourists take out a temporary tourist membership of The Flying Doctors’ Society of Africa, if they are not already covered by their international insurance. In case of serious illness or injury, the Flying Doctors' Society will provide emergency treatment and air transportation to the nearest hospital. Please note that enrolment does not include the cost of medical expenses incurred.
Languages in Kenya
English is the official language in Kenya while Kiswahili is the national language. There are also indigenous languages spoken throughout the country. Personal working for the travel and tourism establishments may be able to communicate in other European languages notably German, French, Italian and Spanish.
Park Entrance Fees in Kenya
Entry fees into Kenyan national parks and game reserves is determined by Kenya Wildlife Services in case of national parks or the local authorities in the case of game reserves. The fees vary depending on the classifications. The current fees (2011) for the highest category stand at US$75 per adult per 24 hour stay within the park/reserve. Some private conservation areas are charging up to US$80 for a 24 hour stay. The fees also differ depending on whether the individual is resident, non-resident or citizen of Kenya. In case this fee is not included in your safari package, or if you are doing a self-drive safari, ensure you obtain a receipt as proof of payment. Inspections are sometimes undertaken.
Photography in Kenya
The usual camera films are readily available in most places throughout Kenya. However, they may be a bit expensive in some places outside the major cities. It my be wiser to bring along supplies. You may also consider bringing along extra batteries and even a back up camera in case the first one fails you. Carry a dust-proof case for camera equipment. Some safari organizations provide bean bags as camera rests.
While in Kenya, you may not take photos of the following places; airports, military or police installations, policemen and military personnel in uniform, the President or government minister and their entourage, the national flag, the State house/state lodges, prisons, prisoners etc. As your guide for guidance.
Public Holidays in Kenya
Jan 01 New Year’s Day
Friday before Easter Sunday Good Friday
<Variable Holiday> Easter Sunday
Day after Easter Sunday Easter Monday
May 01 Labour Day
Jun 01 Madaraka Day
Oct 20 Mashujaa Day
Dec 12 Jamhuri (Independence) Day
Dec 25 Christmas Day
Dec 26 Boxing Day
Safety and Security for Travel to Kenya
Kenya is generally safe for travel. Normal precautions as in any other destination worldwide should be taken. Due to increased danger of international terrorism, keep a watch on any travel alerts that my be issued on Kenya.
While in Kenya, keep a close watch on handbags, wallets and cameras when walking in crowded places and avoid walking in narrow alleys or isolated streets especially at night.
If traveling around Kenya on a self-drive option, avoid picking any hitch-hikers and do not stop on isolated areas of the road that you are not familiar with. Before leaving for the next destination that is unknown to you, talk to the hotel personnel to get the general feel of the road conditions and the security and safety situation of your next destination.
Place your valuables in safety deposit boxes at hotels and lodges. Only carry reasonable amount of hard cash at any time.
Do not wear jewellery or valuables that bring attention to yourself. Never leave valuables on show in an unattended car or tour bus. Do not leave your vehicle unlocked.
Shopping in Kenya
Most shops in major towns and cities are open from 0830 hours to 1800 hours , Monday to Saturday and some are even open on Sunday morning. Major supermarket chains such as Nakumatt and Uchumi are open from 0830 hours to 2030 hours Monday to Friday and on Sunday mornings. Nakumatt has a few of their stores that operate on a 24 hour basis.
For sourvenirs and gift, visit an open Market in Nairobi. These are operated at different venues depending on the day of the week. Ask your receptionist or guide for information.
Some items of special interest that you can get from the stores and shops include tea and coffee. And the open-air markets, you can get wood carvings, traditional African woven cloths, hand-woven carpets and mats, baskets, leather goods, gems and gemstone jewelry, and batik artwork.
Hotels and lodges also have gift shops that sell souvenirs, T-shirts, toiletries, etc.
Telecommunications in Kenya - Cell phones etc
Most of Kenya can be accessed by phone – either the mobile phone, conventional telephone or the satellite phone. It is possible to call in and out of Kenya from anywhere in Kenya – almost.
Cellular phone coverage is provided by several companies. These are Safaricom, Airtel, Orange, and YU. Most of the major towns are covered. International roaming services on your celluar phone is also possible in Kenya.
Most of Kenya is now networked by automatic telephone exchanges provided by Telkom Kenya, with public telephone exchanges in even the most remote places. Some rural areas, however, still have manual exchanges. To make a call in such areas, dial the exchange code and wait for the operator, then state the desired telephone number.
When making an international call into Kenya, dial +254 followed by the area code prefix (the first 0 in the area code should not be dialled) and then the local number.
When making an international call out of Kenya the international access code is 000. When calling within Kenya, dial the area code, including the 0, and then the local number. The area code for Nairobi is 020. Kenya area codes and other country codes can be found in Kenyan telephone directories.
Timezone of Kenya
Kenya time is GMT + 3 hours.
Guideline for Tipping while Traveling in Kenya
Tipping is not compulsory and is always at the discretion of the customer. However is has become a practise is widely appreciated as and indication of satisfaction with the services rendered.
A general guideline for each traveler would be as follows:
Porters at the airports, hotels, lodges, etc. - US$1 per porter;
In restaurants - approximately 10% of your bill;
Safari drivers and guides US$5-uS20 per person per day.