The currency of Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling (KES).
Outside major towns/cities, traveller’s cheques can be difficult to cash and will not be accepted in many places i.e., smaller rural towns, markets, souvenir stalls, etc. They can also attract high commission charges especially when exchanging for hard currency. Therefore, it may be advisable to have cash in remote areas where banking facilities are non-existent. There are several forex bureaus within the main cities, which offer attractive rates. Hotel and Lodge exchange rates will often be at higher rates.
Please note that US$ bills printed before the year 2006 are not accepted. Credit cards can be utilized (VISA & AMEX are widely accepted although administration charge is sometimes levied) instead of cash for settlement of incidentals. You will require local currency for tips to porters/dining room staff and shopping for any souvenirs/curios.
Kenya’s national parks and wildlife reserves are renowned worldwide for their stunning landscapes and diverse array of wildlife. From the iconic savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the rugged terrain of Tsavo, each park offers a unique safari experience. Amboseli National Park boasts unparalleled views of Mount Kilimanjaro and large herds of elephants while Lake Nakuru National Park is a haven for flamingos and rhinos. Other notable parks include Samburu, Buffalo Springs, and Shaba Reserves, home to unique species like Grevy’s zebras and reticulated giraffes. With diverse landscapes ranging from forests to savannahs, Kenya’s national parks offer unforgettable wildlife encounters and breathtaking natural beauty.
Within Kenya, for most local domestic flights, the baggage allowance is 15kgs per person preferably in soft bags. Especially the smaller planes. Soft bags like Duffel bags are also ideal for safari cars. Extra luggage can be stored at the Hotel you are staying at in Nairobi until your return.
Do remember individual airlines may place restrictions on medication and toiletries that can be included in the hand baggage. Please ensure that you do not include Laptops, iPods and accessories, Cameras, and money in your checked baggage, as a safety measure. Do ensure you have these in your carry-on baggage.
The days are typically hot throughout the year and attire such as shorts and T-shirts are suitable. Carry light cotton clothing, and flip-flops/sandals.
A good pair of hiking boots or comfortable walking shoes are also recommended.
A sunhat/cap, and a good pair of sunglasses.
It is suggested to have long pants, a windbreaker, a fleece jacket, and a beanie for layering in the early mornings and evenings when temperatures can drop significantly, especially while on game drives.
Try to pack clothes in khaki, green, beige, and neutral colours.
High-factor sunscreen – SPF 30 or above. Insects can be a nuisance in some national parks, please carry insect repellent. Binoculars for good viewing.
Do not forget your camera. Batteries can be recharged at most hotels, and it is advisable to bring spares (and memory cards). Plug adaptors if your devices use anything other than 3-pin square British (type G) plugs. Electricity voltage is 220-240 V AC (alternating current), with 50 cycles. Re-sealable polythene bags would prove handy to keep your devices dust-free. A pack of wet wipes – safaris can get dusty! A swimming costume if you wish to swim.
A visa for Kenya must be obtained online at www.eVisa.go.ke before traveling to Kenya. The email approval after application and payment will take about 24 hours. A yellow fever certificate is required.
It is advisable to take out adequate travel insurance before the commencement of your trip. For further details kindly visit www.aiginsurance.com. Take out comprehensive insurance coverage when paying a confirmation deposit, to cover cancellation, curtailment, medical expenses, personal baggage, emergency evacuation back home, and money. Temporary membership with FDS is available which includes Emergency evacuation by flight and by road ambulance, by a team of Flying Doctors Service, to the nearest major hospital. Please visit www.fds.org for further details.
It is customary to offer tips for exceptional all-around services, but solely at your discretion. Herewith is a general guideline:
Dining room staff/ porters, equivalent of USD 2 to USD 3 per person/ day and per bag respectively (there is usually a staff tip box in the reception area)
Driver/ guide US$ 10 – 15 per day per person (the tip can be given on the final day when the respective driver bids you farewell).
Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, and tobacco are payable directly at certain places.
The various bills can be signed to your room for ease of settlement before checking out.
Change is often in local currency for payments effected in foreign currency.
For security purposes, please do not leave valuables such as cash, travel documents, and jewellery in your room/vehicle. A safety deposit box is available in your room or at the reception at each property. A money belt would prove handy. Please be aware that credit card fraud unfortunately is on the increase, and you should never allow your card to be taken out of sight. Make sure that you sign all charge slips and that the transactions are made in front of you at any given time or place, in hotels and restaurants. For an invalid transaction, please ensure that all the invalidated slips are shredded.
Kenyan cuisine is a vibrant fusion of flavours and traditions, reflecting the country’s diverse cultural heritage. Staples like ugali (staple cornmeal dish), and nyama choma (grilled meat) are enjoyed alongside flavourful stews. Sukuma wiki (Collard greens) is among the popular dishes, showcasing the influence of various ethnic groups. Swahili cuisine along the coast offers tantalizing seafood dishes like pilau and biryani, infused with aromatic spices. Street food favourites such as samosas and mandazi add to the culinary tapestry, making Kenyan cuisine a delightful exploration of taste and tradition. Additionally, sample fresh tropical fruits and enjoy a cup of Kenyan coffee, renowned for its rich aroma and flavour.
Booking penalties ranging up to 100% (dependent on the nature and date of the actual cancellation) of the total tour cost will be levied in the unfortunate event of cancellation of arrangements.
It is a crime to photograph government buildings, security (police/army) installations, the Presidential motorcade or to deface currency.
This is an amazingly photographic destination, however, if you want to take photographs of people, please ask for their permission first.