Kenya Travel Advice: Tips for a Stress-Free Trip

Kenya, a land of breathtaking beauty and diverse experiences in East Africa, beckons travellers with its vibrant culture and stunning wildlife. However, before you pack your bags for any foreign country, it's important to understand that Kenya, like many places, requires caution and careful planning. Here is some travel advice that will make your travel to Kenya simpler.

Travel Advice for Kenya

Visa and Passport Requirements for Kenya

Kenya is now visa-free for all the countries around the world for 3 months of travel. Travellers must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before their travel. This can be submitted up to 90 days before travel dates. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your entry into Kenya and have one blank page.

Website: www.etakenya.go.ke/en
Processing Time: 3 working days
eTA Fee: $34.09 per traveller
eTA Validity: 90 days.

If you already have a valid visa, you can continue to travel using it until it expires.

Travel Insurance

It is highly advised to have travel insurance while travelling to Kenya. The insurance should cover medical emergencies, refunds for trip cancellations, and compensation for lost baggage in addition to emergency evacuation and liability coverage. Before you go, check the policy details and choose a reliable insurance provider for peace of mind during your trip to Kenya.

Managing Money in Kenya

In Kenya, the primary currency for most transactions is the Kenyan Shilling. Note that US dollars are typically not accepted for general expenses.
By following a few practices, you can effectively manage your finances while travelling:

Declaration Rule: When entering or leaving Kenya, ensure you declare all sums exceeding US$10,000. This regulation covers various forms of currency, not limited to cash.
Traveller's Cheques: Traveller’s cheques are not accepted anywhere except in banks and foreign exchange in Kenya.
Credit Cards and ATMs: In Nairobi and major towns, you can use international credit cards at ATMs. But be careful when using credit cards or ATMs due to rising incidents of card skimming. Opt for ATMs in large shopping centres or banks and check the machine for any unusual components before using them. Always make sure your card is visible during transactions.
Card Compatibility: Before your trip, confirm that your banks are functional in Kenya with your bank.
Banknotes Alert: Be aware that older Kenyan banknotes are not to be accepted.

Driving Permit

You will need both your country’s driving license along with an international driving license to drive in Kenya. Get your IDL from your country.

Adhering to Local Laws and Customs

When visiting Kenya, it's important to follow local rules and customs for a smooth trip. Here's what you need to know:

Ivory and Protected Animal Parts: Possessing ivory or other protected animal parts is illegal. You can get fined or imprisoned.
Carrying Identification: Always carry your ID with you according to Kenyan law. The police might ask for it, so keep your Kenyan ID or passport handy. Also, keep a copy of your passport in a safe place.
Online Acquaintances: Be careful while meeting someone you've met online. There have been many cases of fraud.
Homosexuality: Homosexuality is illegal in Kenya, and public displays of affection can lead to arrest and imprisonment.
Plastic Bag Ban: Kenya has banned plastic bags for environmental reasons.
Smoking Regulations: Only smoke in designated areas in public places.
Dress Appropriately: Dress modestly outside of resorts, especially in Muslim areas, to be respectful.
Photography Limitations: Photography is not allowed around government buildings and facilities, including airports and the CBD area of Nairobi.
Fines and Documentation: If you get fined on the spot, make sure you follow the right process and ask for proper documentation.

Health Risks and Vaccinations in Kenya

When travelling to Kenya, it's important to be aware of health risks. Malaria is a concern, so protect yourself from mosquito bites. Yellow fever is common, and vaccination is required for entry. Due to high rates of HIV/AIDS, it's important to take precautions during high-risk activities. Also, make sure your drinking water is safe to avoid getting sick from it.

Recommended Vaccinations While Travelling to Kenya

Yellow Fever: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory when entering Kenya, especially if you're arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever.
Routine Vaccinations: Make sure you're up to date on routine vaccines, including measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DPT), and varicella (chickenpox).
Hepatitis A and B: Consider getting vaccinated for hepatitis A and B, especially if you're staying long-term.
Typhoid: Depending on your travel plans and activities, a typhoid vaccination may be advisable.
Meningitis: If you'll be in close contact with locals, attending crowded events, or visiting during the dry season (December to June), consider a meningitis vaccine.
Cholera: There's a risk in Kenya, so the cholera vaccine may be recommended depending on your travel plans.
Rabies: If you'll be in contact with animals or travelling to remote areas, a rabies vaccination might be considered.

Consult with your doctor well in advance of your trip to ensure you take the appropriate vaccinations and health advice for your specific travel plans in Kenya.

Local Emergency Contacts:

For your safety and peace of mind while in Kenya, here are essential local emergency contact numbers to keep on hand.

In case of fire and rescue services, dial 999.
Call 999 or visit the nearest hospital for medical emergencies.
Contact 999 or visit the nearest police station for police assistance.
Always ensure that you obtain a police report when reporting a crime.

These are basic rules for travelling safely and having fun in Kenya. Remember, every trip is special. Kenya has beautiful scenery, diverse cultures, and amazing wildlife adventures waiting for you to explore.