Why Kenya?
Kenya, one of the most amazing, stunning and outstanding African countries, offers a diverse range of environments, all within relatively close proximity to one another, as well as an excellent domestic travel infrastructure. Whether you’re into tropical forests, beautiful beaches, deserts, hiking or wildlife, Kenya will always have something breathtaking for you and will remain in your mind and heart for many, many months after the trip itself.
Get exclusive discount when you pay with PayPal for the safari and travel offers below.
East Africa Shuttles Safaris
Pay with PayPal and get an exclusive 5% discount on a selection of thrilling safari trips.
See more
Gamewatchers Safaris
Create your perfect safari holidays and enjoy 20% off for selected offers.
See more
C4 Photo Safaris
Enjoy an exclusive 15% discount on safaris and workshops for the nature and photography enthusiast.
See moreTourist guide
In order to fully enjoy the almost limitless range of thrilling experiences that Kenya has to offer, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re well prepared in advance. We’ve collected the most important and useful information for you, all easily accessible on our site.
Kenya for travelers.
Before you go
If you’re planning to go to Kenya as a US or EU member country citizen, you will require a visa. Visas may be obtained on arrival at the airport in Nairobi, using a form supplied to you on the aircraft before landing. If you don’t want to waste your time at the airport, you can always apply for the visa online. Remember that your passport has to be valid for at least 6 months from the moment you cross the Kenya border.
Health and medical care
Before arriving in Kenya, as with other African countries, you need to check all mandatory vaccines to avoid health emergencies and fully enjoy the most amazing travel plans and beautiful safaris. Remember to carry your vaccination records, as local authorities will check them when you enter Kenya. Kenya is a risk area for some exotic diseases, like malaria so think about taking malaria pills if you are planning to go the National Parks or on safari.
Weather
At this time of the year, Kenya’s weather is pleasant for residents and tourists. Kenya's climate varies from tropical (along the coast) through temperate (inland) to arid (in the north and northeast parts of the country). The latter area enjoys a great deal of sunshine every month, and summer clothes can be worn throughout the year. It’s usually cool at night and early in the morning when you’re inland at higher elevations.
Across the country
Kenya’s wild beauty and multiple tourist attractions in different regions tempt tourists to explore the country. If you decide to do so, but don’t want to rent a car (see information below), you can count on the widely available budget bus network or taxis (motorbike taxis are not the best option and better avoided). If you’re traveling around a city like Nairobi or Mombasa, agree the fare with the driver before entering the car and make sure that the selected vehicle is a part of a legal business.
Etiquette
The majority of Kenyans are Christian, with Islam being the second largest religion, practiced by about 11.1% of the total population. While visiting religious monuments, it’s important to remember that, regardless of the weather, wearing swimsuits, shorts or mini-skirts is prohibited outside tourist spots. Topless sunbathing and smoking are strictly prohibited everywhere.
Security
Although Kenya is a beautiful and still undiscovered African country, and is definitely worth traveling to, you should keep some level of caution. As in many other African countries, the risk is higher in territories threatened by potential conflicts. In Kenya this includes the regions on the border with South Sudan and Somalia, the Garissa region, the Eastleigh district in Nairobi, the Lamu region, the Tana River and areas located north of Mt. Kenya.
For drivers
Although deciding to rent a car in Kenya may be tempting, be aware that the condition of local highways and the habits of Kenyan drivers are very different from those in the US or EU. If you’ve already decided to drive a car, check carefully your route and the location of gas stations, and stay aware of potential risks. You should consider the cool option of renting a 4x4 car for a completely unique adventure, increased safety plus the convenience of having your own vehicle.
Good to know
Kenya’s official languages include English and Swahili.
Some useful words in Swahili are:
Jambo – Hello!
Kwaheri – Goodbye!
Asante - Thank you!
Samahani – Sorry!
Sawa – OK
Hapana – No
And, most importantly: Hakuna matata - All is well!