Kenya is a year-round travel destination for business travelers, adventure seekers or holiday makers. The country offers amazing sightings of African wildlife including, the Big 5 and other wild animals.
There are many things that are unpredictable when travelling to Kenya such as weather, wildlife activities, food etc all of which can all impact on the level of service. Besides all that there are some vital tips to keep in mind when travelling to Kenya. In our Kenya Travel Guide, you’ll find that the most essential items to pack are an open mind, patience, and a desire for adventure.
With the corona pandemic, travel is different all over the world. When travelling to Kenya one requires a proof of a negative COVID-19 test 96 hours prior to arrival at your port of entry. You’ll also need to be vaccinated against Covid-19.
A travelers is also required to fill out the Kenyan Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 Health Surveillance Form online. This is a questionnaire on your current health status as it relates to the coronavirus. Once you have successfully submitted the online questionnaire, you will receive a QR code to download. Afterwards you can apply for an eVisa so enable you pass through immigration upon arrival. You can apply for single entry and transit visas on the e-visas website.
Travelers are encouraged to stay in open spaces, and avoid crowds.
It’s very important to wear a mask and we always make sure disposable masks are available in the safari vehicle at all times.
Wash your hands well with soap and water before and after eating or drinking,we regularly remind travelers to sanitize while on eating and sanitize regularly.
Lastly, while in Kenya you are advised to strictly adhere to the COVID-19 prevention guidelines laid out by the Kenyan Ministry of Health (MOH).
Vaccinations for yellow fever is advised and sometimes you might be requested to produce the yellow fever vaccination card. Malaria is prevalent in Kenya. It is always advisable to consult your physician on the best preventive drug to take before travelling.
Although Kenya is located in the tropics, climate and temperature varies depending on altitude and proximity to the ocean. Coastal regions are hot and humid while the central and Rift Valley regions where you are most likely to do your safari are warm and dry, with cool nights.
Light casual wear can be worn anywhere during your travel. A jacket or sweater is necessary for early mornings and evenings as it can get a little bit cold. It is also advisable to keep clothes to a minimum especially while on safari and mostly of neutral colors (khaki, brown and green.) Remember to pack the following essential items: sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellant. Don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes, swim wear and binoculars.
Most hotels and lodges will offer laundry services.
Kenya is an amazing country with wonderful people. Most people are very kind and welcoming so incase you need to ask for help, feel free to do so. While the national language of Kenya is Kiswahili, English is the official language and is widely spoken and understood across East Africa. You will appreciate learning a few swahili words such as ‘jambo’, ‘asante’ ‘kwaheri’ etc.
We advise that you adhere to the following simple rules:
Don’t walk alone in apparently deserted areas, especially in and around the cities. It is preferable and usually more enjoyable to walk with company or in groups.
Don’t carry large sums of cash in your purse or pocket, or display expensive jewelry. Be aware of the possibility of pick-pockets in crowded areas.
Always remember that while some animals have become used to the presence of humans they are still wild animals and can be unpredictable. Keep your distance.
It is illegal to feed any wild animal.
Do not make excessive noise to attract their attention, or deviate from designated roads for that closer photograph.
Never get out of your vehicle except at designated points.
Close all windows and zippers when you leave your room or tent and spray it with insect repellant.
Kenya is considered a photographers paradise to those interested in capturing amazing nature photos. From panoramic scenery, wildlife and birds to people and vibrant ceremonies. Kindly avoid taking photos of people without asking them first.
Keep your cameras in a dust resistant, case.
Please note that taking pictures of government and military personnel and installations is prohibited!
Water
Drink only bottled water or from flasks of filtered water provided by most hotels and lodges.
Accommodation establishments in Kenya range from budget to luxury. Standards and services vary from property to another. Deluxe and first class hotels are found in the main cities and the beach resorts on the coast. Luxurious lodges are set in exotic locations, while comfortable tented camps and lodges are found in the main game parks and reserves.
There are numerous banks in the major towns as well as many forex bureaus. Hours of business vary from bank to bank, but most are open from 9.00am to 5.00pm, Mondays to Fridays, and 900am – 1.00pm on Saturdays. Hotels and lodges change money outside these hours. Banking services are also available at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi and at Moi International Airport in Mombasa.
Currency unit is the shilling, Coins are in denominations of 1,5,10,20 and 40 shillings. Bank notes are in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 shilling.
International credit cards are accepted by most restaurants, stores, hotels, lodges, camps, car rental firms, etc. However, many small shops in rural areas will not accept them.
You can get more vital tips when Travelling to Kenya by contacting Arrow Adventures for more details
