English and Swahili are the official languages. English is widely spoken in urban areas and tourist destinations.
- Kenya is a safe for tourist to visit and is one of the safest countries in East & Central Africa which is why many global UN bodies and regional Embassies as well as international companies have chosen Nairobi as their headquarters for the African region.
- The Kenyan parks and reserves are also professionally managed with adequate security in place.
The Kenyan Shilling (KES) is the official currency. You can exchange money at banks or currency exchange offices. Major credit cards are widely accepted.
Yes, credit cards are accepted in most of the establishments. However, it's advisable to carry some cash.
- You will only need an Electronic Travel Authorisation and a passport with 6 months validity and at least 2 blank pages to enter the country.
- Visit https://evisa.go.ke/ to apply for the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
Yellow fever vaccination is usually required. Other recommended vaccines include Hepatitis A and B and typhoid. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Apart from vaccinations, consider taking malaria prophylaxis/carry mosquito repellant and drink bottled or purified water.
Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost baggage.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, tipping around 10% is customary. Safari guides and hotel staff may also appreciate tips.
Respect for elders is essential. It's polite to greet people with "Jambo" or "Habari" and to ask for permission before taking photographs of individuals.
Kenyan cuisine includes staples like ugali, nyama choma (grilled meat), and sukuma wiki. Street food can be safe in popular areas, but exercise caution to avoid foodborne illnesses.
- Lightweight and breathable clothing are suitable for most regions. If visiting coastal areas, pack swimwear. Warmer layers are advisable for highland regions. - Thus, clothes to bring along should therefore be adaptable. Many of the parks are located in low altitude areas and have temperatures ranging from warm to hot in the day and cool to cold in the night. Take outfits that layer so that you start well rugged and can "peal of" as the day warms up. Basic clothing includes, loose fitting long trousers and shirt/ T-shirts, a hat and sunglasses against the sun, lace up shoes
Kenya is famous for its wildlife, including the Maasai Mara, Amboseli National Park, and Mount Kenya. Other attractions include the coastal areas, Nairobi National Park, and the Great Rift Valley.
Kenya is home to the "Big Five" (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) along with numerous other species such as giraffes, zebras, and various antelope.
Always ask for permission before photographing people.
The main avenues of transportation within the country include Taxis, matatus (shared minivans), tuk-tuks and buses for shorter-distance trips. If looking to travel further distances across the country, there is a railway system as well as local flights.
- The emergency number is +112/999, and you can also contact the Kenya Tourist Police at +254 (0) 20 2727844
- Humming Bird Transport emergency contacts are; +254 722 488 141 / +254 782 488 141
