Ultimate Kenya Travel Advisory; for first timers

Dreaming of your first African safari? Want to witness The Lion King in real life? Kenya offers lifetime adventure like no other! From breathtaking landscapes to the Big Five, here’s your ultimate kenya travel advisory and everything you need to know before you pack up your bags, for a smooth and unforgettable trip.

1. Visa requirements 

Who needs a visa?

• East African passport holders: No visa required, but you may need a yellow fever card.
• Other travelers: since 2024 Kenya has moved to an online eTA system; you can no longer get a visa on arrival.

Steps to Apply for an E-Visa

1. Visit the official e-visa website: ETA kenya
2. Click apply now and follow the instructions
3. Upload the required documents ie valid passport copy, passport photo, travel itinerary, accommodation details and contact information
4. Pay the visa fee, submit and wait for confirmation email
5. Wait for approval takes around 48-72 hours
6. Print or save your e-visa on your phone to show at the entry point.

Visa validity: 90 days, extendable for another 90 days.

2. Best Time to Visit Kenya (Weather Guide)

Kenya has two main seasons: dry and rainy. Here’s what to expect:

• Coastal Areas (Mombasa, Diani): Hot & humid year-round (20–40°C).
• Nairobi & Central Kenya: Mild days (up to 27°C), cooler mornings & evenings.
• Western Kenya: Warm with frequent rains.
• Rift Valley: Cool due to high altitude (home of Kenya’s world-class marathon runners!).
• Northern Kenya: Hot and arid.

Best Time to Visit? June–October (dry season, perfect for safaris) or January–February.

3. What to pack for kenya

Kenya’s diverse climate means you’ll need to pack wisely, What to pack:

• Light, breathable clothing (cotton T-shirts, trousers).
• A light jacket or hoodie for cooler evenings.
• Sturdy shoes (hiking/running shoes) and a pair of Crocs for comfort.
• Neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors to blend in with the environment).

Safari quick pack guide

• Binoculars for spotting wildlife.
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses. 
• Camera with extra batteries.

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4. Where to Stay in Kenya (Accommodation Guide)

Kenya offers diverse accommodations, from budget to luxury:

• Budget: Hostels, Couchsurfing.
• Mid-range: Airbnb, guesthouses, boutique hotels.
• Luxury: Safari lodges, high-end hotels.

Best Booking Platforms: Booking.com, Agoda, Airbnb, Flipkey.

Check TripAdvisor for reviews before booking.

5. Language in Kenya

Kenya is a multilingual country with over 42 tribes, each having their own native language and sometimes sub-tribe. but two languages unite us,

• English: Widely spoken (used in schools, transport, media).
• Swahili: The second national language.

Coming soon: A guide to useful Swahili phrases for tourists!

6. Money & Payments in Kenya

Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES). Small denominations are useful for quick purchases.

Payments: Kenya is a mobile money hub. M-Pesa & Airtel Money are widely used.

Pro Tip: Download the M-Pesa or Airtel money app and set up mobile money with your provider, they will also teach you how to navigate mobile payment options for seamless transactions.

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7. Transportation in Kenya

How to Get Around

• Matatus – Vibrantly decorated minibuses, affordable and iconic.
• Bodabodas – Motorbikes for quick rides, door to door rides or deliveries
• Tuk-Tuks – Three-wheeled taxis (common at the coast).
• Online taxis – Uber, Bolt, Little Cabs.
• Train (SGR) – Connects Nairobi to Mombasa & Kisumu.
• Domestic flights – Jambojet, Safarilink for quick local travel
• Walking: Also known as Footsubishi – be ready to double your daily steps!

8. Must-Try Kenyan Food & Drinks

Don’t miss out on Kenya’s delicious cuisine and tropical fruits! Must-Try Dishes:

• Nyama Choma (grilled meat)
• Ugali (maize meal staple)
• Chapati (soft flatbread)
• Swahili cuisine (biryani, pilau)

where to eat; local eateries (mama ntilie) coastal markets or upscale restaurant like carnival Nairobi

Safety tip; drink bottled water or boil tap water before drinking, wash your fruits before eating.

9. Health & Safety Tips for Kenya

Vaccinations Required: Yellow Fever, not mandatory if you’re coming from europe, but if you’re planning to cross over to Tanzania or Uganda you’ll get one on the border.

Recommended Precautions: Malaria pills, Vaccines for hepatitis, meningitis, typhoid, rabies (for animal lovers). Carry insect repellent & a basic first aid kit.

Travel Insurance: Highly recommended—get special activity cover if you’re planning to go on safaris ot climbing activities.

🌍 Useful Health Resources:

• World Health Organization (WHO)
• Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

10. Kenyan Culture & Etiquette

Kenya is known for its warm hospitality, but here are some tips to blend in:

• Greet with a handshake or polite nod.
• Dress modestly in rural areas & religious sites.
• Tipping: 10–15% in restaurants, for guides & safari staff.

Have any questions or need help planning your trip? Drop a comment below or reach out, we’re happy to help!

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