Traveling to Kenya : Things You Need to Know

In this article, we will show you the most important things you need to know before traveling to Kenya. Kenya, situated along the Indian Ocean in East Africa, boasts diverse landscapes of thorn bushes, grasslands, and extensive forests spanning approximately 130,000 square km in the southwestern region. The country experiences varied climates, with tropical conditions along the coast, hot and mainly dry lowlands, and cooler highlands featuring distinct seasons.

Wildlife and Activities: Kenya is rich in diverse wildlife, including primates, big cats, birds, and aquatic animals. The country offers a plethora of activities for tourists such as game viewing, camping, hiking, water sports, diving, bird watching, pristine beaches, glass-bottom boat rides, and more. Start traveling to Kenya with confidence.

Key Aspects to Note about Travel in Kenya

1. Safety: Kenya has bolstered its security measures after past instances of terrorism, ensuring a safe environment for travel and tourism. It remains a welcoming destination despite previous challenges.
2. Hospitality: The people of Kenya are renowned for their warm hospitality, readily assisting travelers in need and fostering a friendly atmosphere for visitors.
3. Transportation: The country boasts high-quality road networks and air transport facilities, providing various options for travel. Flights connect major cities to tourist attractions, complementing well-maintained roads.
4. Ethnic Tensions: Kenya, with its diverse ethnic groups, occasionally experiences tensions, often around election periods. However, it remains safe for travel, ensuring a secure environment for tourists.
5. Visas: Visitors can apply for visas online, including an East African visa granting access to Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya. Alternatively, regular entry visas are available at border posts, with transit visas provided for layovers.
6. Affordable Airlines: Kenya offers budget-friendly airlines operating safely and efficiently, making air travel more accessible. Kenya Airways operates both internationally and locally, enhancing travel options.
7. Train to Mombasa: Traveling by train to Mombasa is a cost-effective alternative to flying, offering a comfortable journey at high speeds. Booking tickets in advance via mobile payment (M-Pesa) or at the station is recommended.
8. M-Pesa: M-Pesa, a mobile payment service in Kenya, simplifies online bill payments and transactions. Obtaining a local SIM card enables easy access to these services.
9. SIM Cards: Obtaining a local SIM card in Kenya is straightforward, requiring only a passport for registration, facilitating access to various mobile services.
10. Local Transport: Matatus, local minivans, offer short-distance transport in Kenya. Additionally, Boda Bodas (motorcycles) and tuk-tuks cater to transportation in smaller towns, providing affordable travel options.
11. Local Cuisine: Ugali, a maize-based staple served with beans and steamed greens, represents a popular meal in Kenya. The coastal region offers wheat-based delicacies like samosas and chapatis.
12. Currency: Kenya utilizes the Kenyan shilling, with the current exchange rate averaging around 100 Kenyan shillings for one US dollar. Money exchange services are available at banks, while ATMs dispense Kenyan shillings.
13. Supermarkets and Markets: Kenya houses several supermarkets catering primarily to staples and dry goods, while markets are ideal for fresh fruits and vegetables. The country has banned plastic bags.
14. Carrying Passport: Carrying a passport at all times is advisable in Kenya, particularly when requested by law enforcement officers.
15. Accommodation: Kenya offers a growing number of backpacker trails and hostels, ideal for budget travelers. Notable options include Distant Relatives, Milimani Backpackers, and Diani Backpackers.
16. Language: English and Swahili are the official languages in Kenya, commonly spoken by locals.
17. Health: Malaria is prevalent in Kenya; preventive measures and anti-malaria medication are recommended. A yellow fever certificate is necessary before arriving in Kenya.
18. Safaris: Kenya boasts several safari destinations, including Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Hell’s Gate, Tsavo East and West, Lake Naivasha, Mount Kenya, Lake Nakuru, and more. Adventure in the Wild Safaris offers professional tour guides and attractive travel packages for an unforgettable experience.

When traveling to Kenya, it’s very important to choose a reputable tour operator like Kenlink Tours that is so experienced to offer the remarkable African safaris in Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania. Our team of safari experts is much more than ready to usher you into the most ultimate and rewarding safaris.