KENYA

 

 

 

 

Kenya, situated astride the equator on the East African Coast, spans 581,309 km2 (224,445 sq mi) and is flanked by the Indian Ocean to the South-East and Lake Victoria and Uganda to the West. Its northern neighbors are South Sudan and Ethiopia, while Tanzania lies to the South and Somalia to the East. Mt. Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak, lends its name to the country, while Nairobi, the capital and largest city often referred to as the “Green City,” boasts the unique feature of having a National Park just a short distance from its bustling business district.

KENYA'S GUIDE

LANGUAGE

While Swahili is the national language of Kenya, English is the official language. It is widely spoken and understood across East Africa.

CLIMATE

Generally, Kenya has a pleasant climate throughout the year with temperatures ranging between 10º C and 25º C. This varies depending on the region.

The Coastal region is hot and humid, but the temperature falls sharply at night. Across the country, the Lake Victoria region has a similar climate.

The Kenyan inland is relatively cool due to its high altitude, and mornings can be extremely chilly.

However, as you move toward the lowlands of the Northern and Southern regions, the temperature increases significantly – sometimes over 30º C. The evenings, though, can be surprisingly chilly.

There are two rainy seasons; the “long” rains between April and June, and the “short” rains between November and the middle of December. The coldest months are July and August, while the hottest are January and February.

SAFETY

While travelling in East Africa, it is advisable to exercise the same caution and awareness normally accorded in any large city.

  • Never walk in solitude in apparently deserted areas, especially within cities. It is preferable (and usually more enjoyable) to walk with a companion or in a group.
  • Beware that pickpockets create a distraction. Hold on to valuables (or money belt) if in such a situation
  • Beware, con artists target travellers. Walk away if an encounter with a local becomes convoluted and involves money or valuables
  • Never carry more than a day’s supply of cash.
  • Do not carry travel documents and cash in plain sight.
  • Keep copies of travel documents, flight tickets and passport separately from the originals.
  • Lock all valuables in the hotel safe. In case one is not provided, enquire at the hotel reception.
  • Get adequate travel insurance coverage before travelling.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

Passports must be valid 6 months after the anticipated travel date. Leave a blank page for each country to be visited. It is advisable to obtain visas in advance, from Embassies and High Commissions or online
at http://evisa.go.ke/evisa.html visa/ VISAS can also be obtained on arrival at all entry points.

Regulations vary depending on nationality and country of origin, and requirements may change. For more information contact the appropriate Kenyan diplomatic/consular authority or the government portal: https://immigration.ecitizen.go.ke/ visa/ VISAS can also be obtained on arrival at all entry points.

KENYAN CURRENCY

Currency

The currency unit is the Kenya shilling (Ksh.)

For current exchange rates, please refer to the Internet or a newspaper.

The importation of both local and foreign currency is unrestricted, but any amounts exceeding US$ 9,999 must be declared. The exportation of both local and foreign currency is also unrestricted, but amounts totalling to US$ 4,999 require documentation showing both the source and the purpose of the money. The most popular global foreign currencies can be traded at any of the Forex Bureaus (Bureau De Change) establishments in the main towns. Their rates are usually higher than bank rates.

How to carry your money

Cash is more readily exchanged and accepted and commands a better exchange rate in East Africa. Try for a diversity of denominations.

Credit Cards

Major credit cards (and debit cards with Visa or Master Card logos) are a superb emergency back-up. Every traveller is encouraged to carry one, even when there are no intentions of using it – it comes in handy during an emergency, for instance, if you are called upon to fly home or alter your general travel arrangements.

Credit cards are accepted in most establishments in Kenya.

How much money to take

Carry enough money to cover all expenses (souvenirs, laundry, drinks) plus a small reserve. Although ATMs are widely available in all major cities, they may be unreliable. Credit cards should be a financial emergency kit.

FOOD

During the safari, all your meals will be taken in the hotels, lodges & Camps.

The food is of excellent quality. A majority of hotels grow organic vegetables, and to some extent fruits.

In Nairobi and the coastal region, dinner and lunch are billed separately.

The meal timings are usually as follows:

  • Full breakfast is served from 07:00 hrs to 09:30 Hrs
  • Buffet lunch is served from about 12:30 Hrs to 14:30 hrs
  • Tea and coffee is served from 16:00 hrs to 17:00 Hrs
  • Dinner is served from 19:30hrs to 21:30 Hrs

Most hotels have both local and imported alcoholic and non-alcoholic refreshments available (beers, wines, liquors, liqueurs, and fruit juices).

Drinks are not included (unless otherwise stated).

TIME DIFFERENCE

Throughout the year, the Standard Time in Kenya is three hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+3), two hours ahead of Central European Winter Time, and eight hours ahead of Eastern Standard Winter Time in the U.S.

DONATIONS

While donations may seem charitable, they can be disruptive and intrusive especially when a portion of people get them while the others are left empty-handed. Other times, it could place the traveller in danger of being hustled by a mob. As such, avoid distribution of money, pens, candy, and left-over food to children or adults encountered on the way.

If beggars approach, make eye contact, smile politely and keep moving. Offering anything to one beggar will open the harassment floodgates to the whole group.

During community visits, it is advisable to contribute towards community development as opposed to benefitting a few individuals. For example, instead of giving stationery to a few students, bring a large package of pens or pencils and hand it to the school head or administrator for distribution.

Every traveller should be mindful of the effects of their actions.

The intention may be good, but the effect may be negative. For example, sweets/candy may cause tooth decay yet remote villages have few, not to mention expensive, dentists. Also, giving out sweets and other gifts encourages children to run to every foreigner in the neighbourhood, leaving their school or house chores undone. It may also project a bad impression of their parents who may not afford the same gifts.

SHOPPING

Shop till you drop is the name of the game whenever you travel. Memories fade, but relics will always stand the sands of time. Leave plenty of space for memories (if you have a photographic memory), photographs and SOUVENIRS.

There are well-stocked gift shops in many hotels, lodges and camps throughout the country, offering a wide array of traditional artefacts, jewellery, Kenya’s famous tea and coffee, all-purpose fabric wraps to some beautiful stone and wood carvings – all inspired by the diverse range of cultures within Kenya’s borders.

These are some of the other shopping places to try:

  • Maasai Market: This free market has market days all around Nairobi on staggered days. There are a variety of local arts, crafts and signature clothing. Enquire from the hotel or tour guide on the market’s operational days, and location.
  • Kitengela Glass Studios: This is undoubtedly the best place to get pretty glass creatives, ornaments and houseware items made from recycled glass and scrap metal. To add to the thrill, use the suspension bridge to the place through Nairobi National Park.
  • Kazuri beads: Their artful jewellery made from handcrafted ceramic beads and ceramic tableware grace many a shop all over the world. But Kazuri beads allows visitors to interact with the single mothers supported by this project. It is easily reachable, located within the suburban Karen neighbourhood, and can be combined with a trip to Karen Blixen Museum and/or the Giraffe Centre.
  • Spinners WEB Kenya: For an assortment of handicrafts, pottery, home decor, jewellery, and other accessories, this is the place to shop. It is also close to a couple of high-end shopping malls.
  • Utamaduni: This boutique is comprised of several shops that sell all kinds of artwork. It was opened by the famous archaeologist, who at one time headed the Kenya Wildlife Service, Dr Leaky. So, it is befitting that a portion of all proceeds goes to local conservation and charitable projects.
  • MatBronze: They craft and sell wildlife bronze artworks. The sizes vary though – from small portable pieces to very large pieces that will require shipping.
  • Shopping Malls: Nairobi is dotted with shopping malls of all sizes. The major ones are Sarit Center, Village Market, Yaya Center, The Junction, Two Rivers, Galleria, Westgate, and Karen Hub full of shops selling beautiful Kenyan memorabilia.
  • Outside of Nairobi, there are plenty of CURIO shops selling mementoes on virtually all of the safari circuits – likely bathroom stops on all routes.
BUSINESS HOURS

Most businesses operate from 8.30 am to 12.30 pm then from 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm from Monday through to Friday.

On Saturdays, they operate from 8.30 am to 12.30 pm.

Most businesses do not operate on Sundays and Kenyan public / National holidays.

The supermarkets operate all day, including over lunch hour, until 8.00 pm on weekdays, and until 6.00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

LUGGAGE
  • Leave any luggage that will not be in use during the safari at the City Hotel, for collection upon return.
  • Carry a piece of small luggage if staying at The Ark and leave the rest of the luggage at the base hotel (ABCC) for overnight.
  • Note that international airlines allow a luggage allowance of 20 – 30 Kgs whilst LOCAL carriers allow 15 Kgs only – especially those flying into and out of the bush (Parks and Reserves)
  • On Check-out / departure day, place all luggage at the door while heading for breakfast to cue the porters to take it to the reception, to await check-out.
ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE AT HOTELS
  • There are a few Dos to keep in mind while travelling.

    • Upon arrival at the hotel, register at the reception to get the room key.
    • Check-in is generally from 12.00 hrs while check out is at 10.00 hrs
    • Check out for day-use rooms is at 6.00 pm.
    • For concessions on late check-outs, it is recommended to contact/liaise with the Hotel Reception, the night before.
    • Upon checkout, return the key to the reception while settling the bill (if possible, settle all bills the night before to avoid the long queues in the morning).
    • Once checked out, request for a luggage ticket, which is required to leave the hotel.
THE WILDLIFE CODE

Respecting Wildlife:

  • Observe the animals silently with minimum disturbance of their natural activities.

Loud talking on a game drive can frighten the animals away. Noise may also antagonize fellow visitors.

  • Stay in the vehicle at all times, except at designated picnic or walking areas.

Animals are wild and can be unpredictable.

  • Never attempt to attract an animal’s attention.

Don’t imitate animal sounds, clap your hands, pound on the vehicle, or throw objects.

  • When viewing wildlife, keep to a minimum distance of 20 meters and pull to the side of the road to allow others to pass.
  • Please respect the driver-guides’ judgement about proximity to wildlife, particularly lions, cheetahs, and leopards.
  • Don’t insist on getting closer for a better photograph. A vehicle driven too close can hinder a hunt or cause animals to abandon a hard-earned meal.
  • Litter tossed on the ground can choke or poison animals and birds.
  • Never attempt to feed or approach any wild animal on foot.

This is especially important near lodges or in campsites where animals may have become accustomed to human visitors.

  • Refrain from smoking during game drives.

The dry African bush ignites very easily, and a flash fire can harm hundreds of animals.

Conserving East Africa’s Natural Environment:

  • Minimise the disposable items brought on the trip. Leave film boxes, wrappings from new clothes, and other un-needed items at home.
  • Please note that the use or importation of plastic carrier bags was banned in Kenya in August 2017.
  • Be conscious of disposal of tissues, lens paper, water bottles and caps, food wrappers and other trash.

Avoid using the trash containers on the road-side stopping places since the garbage will not find its way to the dumping site. Instead, keep a small              trash bag and empty it back at the hotel or camp each night.

  • Entry into the National Parks and Reserves is restricted between 6.00 a.m. and 6.00 p.m.
  • Night game drives are NOT allowed, except in private wildlife conservancies.
  • Off-road driving is prohibited in the Parks and Reserves. Stay on established trails to preserve grass and other plants.
  • Don’t pick any vegetation, or carry any item of biological interest, including eggshells, feathers and bones of any kind as souvenirs.
  • Consider picking up litter left by other visitors. It is important to be mindful of the environment.
PHOTOGRAPHY

Kenya is considered to be a photographer’s dream destination. From the panoramic scenery, varied wildlife and birds to the culture-centric people and the vibrant ceremonies; rich colour and good lighting conditions abound.

Note that it is considered rude to take pictures of people without asking for their permission. The Maasai and Samburu warriors will expect a token for posing.

Please note that it is prohibited to take photos of:

  • The President and/ or his entourage
  • The police or uniformed personnel
  • Military installations, ministers, official and military buildings, airports, and border posts
  • The national flag, the tomb of Jomo Kenyatta and official residences
CAMERA TIPS

It is recommended to bring a power bank with sufficient storage and memory cards as they may not always be readily available on the ground.

Keep cameras in a dust-resistant padded case, away from direct sun.

An ultra-violet filter and a lens cap are strongly recommended.

A 200mm (or longer) telephoto lens will prove very useful on safari.

HEALTH

As Kenya enjoys a healthy, invigorating climate, visitors need not feel a concern for their general health during their stay. However, malaria is endemic in certain areas and anti-malarial medication should be taken according to prescription recommendations. Visitors requiring special medication should pack sufficient supplies in their hand luggage. Chemist shops are well stocked, but the medication may not always be readily available.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

It is recommended to take up a travel insurance cover for compensation in case of loss of items, flight delays, trip cancellations or even medical emergency. Ensure you understand the nitty-gritty of the cover.at http://evisa.go.ke/evisa.html visa/ VISAS can also be obtained on arrival at all entry points.

Regulations vary depending on nationality and country of origin, and requirements may change. For more information contact the appropriate Kenyan diplomatic/consular authority or the government portal: https://immigration.ecitizen.go.ke/ visa/ VISAS can also be obtained on arrival at all entry points.

COMMUNICATION

Mobile Infrastructure

The mobile network coverage in Kenya is extensive, almost all the ‘usual’ safari circuit areas including National Parks and remote towns are covered.

Wi-Fi Infrastructure: Most, if not all, major hotels have wireless internet connectivity.

ELECTRICITY

Some places are serviced by generators, hence, ration electricity (and the lights may be dim).

Kenya’s electricity supply is at 220/240 volts AC, 50Hz, using a three-pin plug and socket. Carry plug adapters, if need be.

It is important to charge all devices while there is supply. Travellers dependent on an overnight electrical supply (as in the case of those with sleep apnea) should communicate well in advance.

DRINKING WATER

Avoid drinking tap water.

Bottled mineral water is available for purchase throughout.

Purified mineral water is available in the rooms while on safari.

TIPPING

It is said that tipping is not just another city in China and remains optional.

Use the following tipping guidelines, if need be:

  • Many travellers budget between 2% and 3% of their trip cost for all tips
  • If travelling in a group, every group member does not have to give the same amount.
  • At the end of the safari, a volunteer group member can ‘pass the hat’ and present a collective tip to the drivers/guides. Many travellers give between $5 to $ 10 per safari day. Drivers can also be tipped individually.
  • The preferable tipping currencies are US$ Dollar/Euro/Pound Sterling.
  • A tip of 1 to 2 units is appropriate for airport and hotel porters as well as housekeeping staff.
  • It is not necessary to tip in any establishment if they charge a service fee, usually 10%.
  • Otherwise, a tip of between 5 and 10 % of the total bill is considered usual and customary.
  • Never walk in solitude in apparently deserted areas, especially within cities. It is preferable (and usually more enjoyable) to walk with a companion or in a group.
  • Beware that pickpockets create a distraction. Hold on to valuables (or money belt) if in such a situation
  • Beware, con artists target travellers. Walk away if an encounter with a local becomes convoluted and involves money or valuables
  • Never carry more than a day’s supply of cash.
  • Do not carry travel documents and cash in plain sight.
  • Keep copies of travel documents, flight tickets and passport separately from the originals.
  • Lock all valuables in the hotel safe. In case one is not provided, enquire at the hotel reception.
  • Get adequate travel insurance coverage before travelling.

Our Kenyan Itineraries

  • Kenya

Kenya’s popular Destinations



Accommodation in Kenya

Accommodation is one of the most important decisions to make while preparing a safari. Filter below with your preffered destination.

Aberdare Cottages

Aberdare Cottages & Campsite is in the Aberdares most exquisite settings, overlooking the roaring Mathioya River against the backdrop of the Aberdare Mountains at her highest peak. The lodge consists of ensuite rooms with either twin beds or double bed and a...

Elephant Bedroom Camp

Elephant Bedroom Camp offers luxury in a setting of breathtaking beauty. It is set along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River and shaded by doum palms and other trees that make up this green belt of riverine forest in Samburu National Reserve. The surrounding...

Prideinn Mara Camp

PrideInn Mara Camp offers breathtaking views of Mara plains. The camp is set in an ideal location where wildlife plays their naughty games day and night. In fact, the edge of River Talek gives the guests a front view seat to wildlife drama. The iconic camp is set on a...

Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort

Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort and Spa is amongst the best hotels in Mombasa. It is both a luxury beach hotel as well as an adventure beach resort offering world class facilities and activities to both corporate travellers and families looking for fun and recreation....

Voyager Beach Resort

The Voyager is a vibrant, ship-themed resort famous for hosting some of Africa’s finest family entertainments and animation programmes, including unique themed journeys across the seven seas, culinary extravaganzas, and special music, fashion, comedy and acrobatic...

Naro Moru River Lodge

In the shadow of Mt. Kenya’s majestic slopes lies Naro Moru River Lodge. It is situated on the equator between Nyeri and Nanyuki at an altitude of 1,982m (6,505ft). This exotic speciality lodge was created to enhance natures beauty with modern features. Dining...

Lalashe Mara Camp

Lalashe Maasai Mara is a small intimate luxury tented safari camp located in Maasai Mara, one of the best African Wildlife Safari destinations in the world.There is only 5 very spacious luxury tented suites which makes our camp very intimate and thus ensuring all our...

Olare Mara Kempiski

Explore the Masai Mara from the privacy from our exclusive five-star luxury tented camp. Olare Mara Kempinski unlocks Kenya’s untamed wilderness and delivers an experience of sophisticated elegance.

Angama Mara

Angama, inspired by the Swahili word for ‘suspended in mid-air’. Located high above the floor of Africa’s Great Rift Valley, Angama Mara is a remarkable safari lodge overlooking Kenya’s Maasai Mara. Here guests will find a lodge where everything is as it ought to be:...

Satao Elerai

Satao Elerai is located in a quiet, unspoilt and unique setting, on a 5000-acre private conservation area, 12 km south-east Amboseli National Park at the foot of Africa's largest mountain - Mt Kilimanjaro. The camp looks down onto the Amboseli National Park in one...

Naivasha Simba Lodge

Lake Naivasha Simba lodge is an enchanting setting, where contemporary comfort blends stylishly with nature to offer an environment, where guests can refresh their senses, rekindle their love of travel and reconnect with the world around them. Each room is blissfully...

Entim Camp

A luxury tented camp in Maasai Mara, part of Kenya safari experience, and in the heart of the migration. Entim was designed with a purpose in mind; to be in the best possible location to view the wildebeest migration in the Maasai Mara game reserve. For a few months...

Tribe Hotel

Tribe Hotel is approximately 25 km from Nairobi’s International Airport – Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) It has 128 guestrooms and suites that excite and soothe at the same time - rich deep colours mix with natural stone and wood, stainless steel and glass...

Amboseli Sopa Lodge

Set in 200 acres of private land the lodge nestles in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro which, at almost six thousand metres, is Africa’s highest and most famous snowcapped mountain. All forms of wildlife still abound in this wilderness which continues all the way to...

Olimba Mara Camp

Olimba (an African word for strength & courage) is small and cozy eco-Bush camp adjacent to Talek River, in the heart of the most exciting wilderness in Africa, bordering Mara Naboisho Conservancy and the world-renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve.

The Sands at Nomad

Located on one of Africa’s best beaches, The Sands at Nomad is the ideal destination to enjoy a hassle-free beach holiday with impecable service on Kenya’s Southern Coast. The award-winning boutique resort is the perfect getaway for those wanting to experience the...

Ashnil Surana Bufallo Springs

Set in the heart of the great northern territory, amidst the sprawling arid landscape, mottled with lava stones and desert flora & fauna, pours in this beautifully crafted creation that exceeds the term “safari-chic”. The main infinity pool and spa is carefully...

Sarova Maiyan

Sarova Maiyan Nanyuki is an award-winning luxury resort, located 20km from Nanyuki town. The resort comprises 9 exquisite villas comprising of 54 rooms, (6 in each villa) that sit on 113 acres of natural lush landscape with a backdrop of Mt. Kenya and Lolldaiga Hills....

Laikipia Wilderness Camp

A small and personal bush camp with just 5 tents, catering for 10 guests, en suite open-air bathrooms with hot and cold running water. The camp has beautiful views of Mt Kenya and the wilderness and blends sympathetically into this stunning area. Some tents are close...

Ol Tukai Lodge

Writers have described Ol Tukai and the surrounding Amboseli National Park 'as a home for the Gods'. It is an Eco-rated lodge having excellent outdoor and indoor facilities with its unique collection of African art. The beautifully appointed rooms provide quality,...

Other  Popular Destinations