Think of Kenya, and your mind instantly fills with exquisite scenes of safari jeeps and beautiful beaches lapped by the Indian Ocean. But the incredible experiences stretch beyond Kenya's natural landscapes - Nairobi offers exciting urban and cultural encounters, too. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of a trip to this East African nation, from clothing and etiquette to safety and visas.
1. Check the Visa Requirements for Kenya
Many nationalities need to obtain a visa before departing for Kenya. Once issued, print a color copy (or two) of the visa and payment and keep them to hand, even for domestic flights, such as between Nairobi and Mombasa.
The good news for citizens of African countries is visas for Kenya will be a thing of the past next year. The Kenyan President, William Ruto, recently announced that visa requirements will end for all African nations by the end of 2023.
Proof of a COVID-19 vaccination and a negative PCR test is no longer required to enter Kenya. However, travelers exhibiting flu-like symptoms will be required to take a PCR test and fill out a passenger locator form.
2. Pack Smart for Kenya - It’s Not Always Hot
Early morning safaris can be chilly, so it’s wise to take layers for a trip to Kenya. Similarly, temperatures can drop at night in the highlands. Fleeces and even windproof waterproofs are recommended.
On the other hand, staying cool is key by the coast or in the city. Pack cool, breathable fabrics and always cover up in the midday sun.
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What to pack for Kenya will vary according to the trip style you have chosen and when you are travelling. Kenya is a big country and the climate varies a lot between the mountainous areas like Mount Kenya and Ngong Hills and coastal cities like Mombasa and Lamu.
Whether you're going on safari in Serengeti National Park or you're heading on an overland adventure through the heartland of the Maasai, here are some essential items to pack.
We recommend you pack as lightly as possible so you can carry and lift your own luggage and walk with it for short distances. Most travellers find a backpack is more practical than a suitcase, but an overnight bag with a shoulder strap will do if you travel lightly. Backpacks with wheels are convenient, although we recommend your bag has carry straps.
You'll also need a day bag to carry water, a camera, snacks and other essentials for day trips.
Here are some essential items to pack:
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- Walking boots
- Lightweight clothing
- Smart-casual outfits
- Sandals or thongs
- Warm fleece or jumper and a beanie
- Sunhat, sunscreen and sunglasses
- Quick-dry towel
- Waterproof toiletry bag
- High-beam headlamp or torch
- Mini first aid kit
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera
- Lightweight waterproof jacket
3. Leave Your Plastics at Home
Kenya banned single-use plastic bags in 2017, so leave any carrier bags (and preferably single-use plastic water bottles and straws) at home. The bag ban is countrywide - luggage is often scanned, so don’t pack shoes or other items in plastic bags.
Single-use plastic bottles and straws are banned in national parks - bring a reusable water bottle from home.
4. Do You Need Malaria Tablets for Kenya? Probably.
The risk of malaria is low in Nairobi, and in the highlands above 2500m (8200ft), but you should still avoid being bitten. The majority of Kenya falls into a malarial zone, so take advice on which antimalarial is best suited to you between atovaquone/proguanil, doxycycline or mefloquine.
Brand names you might be more familiar with include Malarone and Lariam, but check with your physician, pharmacy or travel clinic. Ideally do this a month in advance of your trip, as you may have to begin taking the pills some time before your trip begins.
Nairobi has little to no risk of malaria because of its cooler temperatures, so it’s safe to spend time in the city without antimalarials. Not all pharmacies in Nairobi carry antimalarials. I recommend checking pharmacies in the Nairobi city center first as they will be the most likely to carry them. We found our antimalarials at Pharmaplus Pharmacy CBD.
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5. Greet People With “Mambo” or “Niaje”
“Jambo” is the best-known greeting in this fantastically friendly country, but if you want to show off your sheng (a Swahili and English combo originating among Nairobi’s younger population), try greeting people with “mambo vipi.” The common reply is “poa.” Alternatively, say “niaje,” to which someone will reply with “niaje.”
Kenya is home to about 40 different ethnic groups, which means the country is highly multilingual. That said, English and Swahili are the two official languages. No matter where you go as a tourist, you’re likely to find someone who speaks at least some English.
Here are some phrases to know:
- Jambo - “Hello”
- Habari rafiki? - “How are you, friend?”
- Naomba kupiga picha - “May I take your picture?”
- Asante - “Thank you”
- Pole pole - “Slow down”
6. Feel Free to Bargain, But Don’t Go Too Far
A sense of humor is essential when bargaining. It’s fine to offer a lower price in markets and some shops - many sellers will start with a higher price, and it can be fun to barter and meet in the middle.
Few sellers will accept an offer that's too low so have some fun with it - just bear in mind what you’re prepared to pay, be respectful and don’t over-haggle.
7. Leaving a Tip Goes Down a Treat
Tipping isn’t expected in Kenya, but if you’ve had a good meal or service, leaving around 10% is appreciated. In hotels, you can also tip porters and housekeeping staff. Some calculate it at Ksh100 to Ksh200 a day while others round it up at the end. Keep small change on you for tips and shopping in markets.
If you’re taking a taxi, round up to the nearest 100, but tips are not always necessary. Taxi apps are popular, and you can add a tip at the end of the journey through the app. Avoid giving money in exchange for preferential service.
8. Be Respectful of Local Communities
Never take photos of people without asking permission, particularly in rural areas and in Mombasa. Be particularly conscious around children or other vulnerable people. If you’re given the OK to take a photo, show it to them after you've taken it.
Think twice before visiting a school (or anywhere that would be strange or inappropriate for you to go to in your home country).
Also note: anyone taking photos of infrastructure, airports and the military may come under suspicion.
9. Dress Appropriately - But Don’t Overthink It
Kenya is moderately conservative, but that doesn’t mean you need to cover your shoulders and knees everywhere. In Nairobi, in towns and on safari, shorts, dresses and sleeveless tops are fine to wear, and the same goes for most beach resorts, although walking around in swimwear isn’t appropriate.
In Muslim communities such as Lamu Town, dressing more conservatively is advised. Loose clothing can be more comfortable in the heat.
Similar to many other African countries, Kenyans dress conservatively so it's important that you do the same to respect the local culture and customs. Dressing conservatively doesn't mean you need to cover yourself from head to toe, but you should wear long, loose-fitting clothing that covers your knees, shoulders, midriff and chest.
10. Don’t Rush - Go With the Flow
It’s misleading to suggest the whole of Kenya operates on some slower “Kenya time” - Nairobi can have the same pace and rhythm as any major city. But the heat and humidity of the coastal areas, around Mombasa, Malindi and Lamu for example, can mean life needs to be lived at a more relaxed pace.
Bear that in mind before expecting certain tasks and services to be carried out immediately, and instead, go with the flow and enjoy a pole pole (“slowly” in Swahili) way of life.
Bonus Tips
- Tap Water: You can boil the tap water in Kenya and drink it. If you have the facilities, you can boil the tap water - it’s soft and sweet - and drink it once cooled. Obviously, that's not always an option, in which case filtered water in restaurants and hotels is safe. You can buy plastic-bottled water, but it’s obviously a lot more ecofriendly to bring your own reusable bottle and water filter or tablets.
- Power Bank: Power cuts in Kenya can occur, so if you rely on your smartphone, take a power bank and ensure it’s always charged. Take a spare camera battery if you're going on safari - and a decent flashlight is helpful in case of power cuts but also when walking around the safari camp at night.
- Safety: People often ask, “Is Kenya safe for tourists?” Few incidents involve tourists, especially in game reserves and tourist areas, but there are a few areas it's better to avoid. These include but are not limited to, within 60km (37 miles) of the Kenya-Somalia border, Garissa County and Lamu County (excluding Lamu Island and Manda Island - travel by air if you're planning a visit). Check the latest guidelines from your government before traveling. In Nairobi, as with any major city, keep valuables safe and your wits about you.
- Embassy Details: Wherever you’re from, it’s savvy to know the contact details of your embassy or consulate. A driver's license is useful if you don’t want to carry your passport with you every day.
Additional Travel Tips for Kenya
Here's some additional travel tips.
- Currency: The official currency of Kenya is the Kenyan shilling (KES). Many larger vendors will accept payment in USD, but don’t count on it! ATMs are available in busy places like airports, malls, and gas stations. Credit cards are also widely accepted in bigger cities like Nairobi, but you will want to have some cash on you, too. You’ll need it for smaller purchases like food, drinks, souvenirs, or tips.
- Getting Around: If you’re not on a tour bus, the best way to get around in cities like Nairobi is by ridesharing apps like Uber, Lyft, or Taxify, but you can also take buses and matatus (minibuses). Most Kenyan towns are linked by buses, as well.
- Responsible Travel: One of the top things to know before visiting Kenya is to always ask people if you have permission to take their photo. You can do this by asking “naomba kupiga picha” (“may I take your picture”) and thanking them once you’re finished with a simple “asante”!
- Kenyan SIM Card: Kenya is quickly becoming one of the most digitized nations in the world. In fact, a 2022 report showed that 96% of Kenyan households use M-Pesa, an East African money transfer service. In many instances in Kenya, M-Pesa is the only payment method accepted. Another benefit of having a Kenyan SIM is the ability to use taxi services like Bolt and Uber.
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