Before travelling to Kenya, be aware of these 10 essential tips to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience. Kenya, known for its spectacular wildlife, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, is a must-visit for travellers worldwide. Whether you’re planning a safari in Maasai Mara, a coastal escape, or a cultural journey, knowing key travel tips will enhance your visit and help you blend in smoothly.
Here we have listed 10 things to know before travelling to Kenya to help you make the most of your adventure.
If you’re currently planning multiple trips or comparing destinations, check out our 7-Day Austria Itinerary for another well-balanced mix of nature, culture, and smart travel planning.
1. Visa and Entry Requirements
All visitors to Kenya need a visa, which can be obtained online for ease and convenience. Kenya offers an eVisa for most nationalities, and you can apply for it at least three days before departure on the official government website. The single-entry visa costs around $50, while the East Africa Tourist Visa (covering Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda) costs $100, ideal for multi-country travellers. Be sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date and has two blank pages for entry stamps.
2. Best Time to Visit Kenya
For the best wildlife viewing, visit during Kenya’s dry seasons, from June to October and January to February. The dry seasons provide the best visibility of wildlife, especially the famous wildebeest migration in the Maasai Mara from July to October
Coastal areas like Diani Beach and Mombasa are hot and humid year-round but can be rain-heavy from March to May. Plan your visit according to your preferences, whether you’re after a beach holiday, safari, or hiking adventure in Mount Kenya.
3. Vaccinations and Health Precautions
Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry, along with precautions for malaria. Kenya is a malaria-endemic region, so travellers should bring prophylactic medication. Other recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, rabies, and polio. Pack basic medical supplies, such as a first-aid kit and any prescribed medications, as rural areas may have limited access to pharmacies. Travel insurance is highly recommended, especially for evacuation coverage, as medical facilities in remote areas may be limited.
4. Packing Essentials for Kenya
Pack for variable weather, especially layers for early-morning safaris and lightweight fabrics for coastal areas. Essential items include comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF), a waterproof jacket, and neutral-coloured clothing for safaris. Bring adapters for Type G outlets and insect repellent, as mosquitoes are common. A camera with a zoom lens and binoculars are must-haves for wildlife spotting, while a few light layers will keep you comfortable for chilly morning game drives.
5. Currency and Payment Options
The Kenyan shilling (KES) is the local currency, but cards and mobile payments are widely accepted. ATMs are available in cities, but always have some cash for rural areas. Kenya’s mobile payment system, M-Pesa, is widely used for easy transactions at many locations, including markets and small businesses. Currency exchange is easy at airports and banks, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels and larger establishments.
6. Cultural Etiquette and Respectful Behavior
Respect Kenya’s cultural norms, including dressing conservatively and learning basic Swahili phrases. In rural areas and places of worship, modest attire is expected. Kenyans value greetings, so learning a few phrases like “Jambo” (Hello) and “Asante” (Thank you) can go a long way. Tipping is customary in Kenya: around 10-15% for safari guides, hotel staff, and restaurant service. Small gestures like these are warmly appreciated by locals and add to your cultural experience.
7. Transportation Tips in Kenya
Public transport is available, but for flexibility and safety, consider using taxis, private transfers, or ride-sharing apps like Uber. Kenya’s main roads are well-connected between major cities, but local matatus (minibuses) can be crowded and lack fixed schedules. Renting a car is also an option; however, remember that Kenya drives on the left. Always carry a copy of your passport, as police may request ID at checkpoints, especially in Nairobi.
8. Safety and Security Tips
Stay vigilant, especially in urban areas, and avoid walking alone after dark. While Kenya is generally safe for tourists, be cautious with your belongings, avoid isolated areas, and use registered taxis or apps for transport. Urban centres, particularly Nairobi, may have pickpockets and occasional scams, so keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying large amounts of cash. Always know emergency contacts, including your embassy and local tourist police numbers, to stay prepared.
9. Photography and Wildlife Ethics
Capture Kenya’s beauty, but remember to respect wildlife and local customs. Avoid using flash photography with animals, as it can disturb them, and never approach or feed wild animals. Certain areas and national parks restrict drone use, so always check regulations. When photographing locals, always ask for permission, as some communities may find it intrusive without consent.
10. Environmental Awareness and Conservation
Practice eco-friendly tourism by minimising waste and supporting conservation-focused parks and reserves. Kenya has banned single-use plastics in national parks, so pack reusable items like water bottles and shopping bags. When choosing accommodations, opt for eco-lodges that support wildlife conservation, as they help protect Kenya’s precious ecosystems while offering you an authentic, sustainable experience.
FAQs
Is Kenya safe for white tourists?
Yes, Kenya is generally safe for tourists, including white visitors, especially in major tourist areas like Nairobi, Maasai Mara, Diani Beach, and Amboseli. That said, exercise common-sense precautions: avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar neighbourhoods, stay alert in crowded places, and stick to trusted guides or private transport. Avoid high-risk areas near Somalia, South Sudan, or certain slums like Eastleigh and Kibera.
What do I need to know before visiting Kenya?
Before travelling to Kenya, you’ll need an eVisa, proof of yellow fever vaccination, and possibly malaria prophylaxis (especially for safaris). The local currency is the Kenyan shilling, and English and Swahili are widely spoken. You’ll also want to choose your visit time wisely—dry seasons (Dec–Mar and July–Oct) are best for wildlife, while the short rainy periods can offer fewer crowds.
What to watch out for in Kenya?
Watch out for petty crime like pickpocketing and bag-snatching in busy areas, including downtown Nairobi and at transport hubs. Avoid areas prone to political unrest, protests, or high-risk zones near Somalia or South Sudan. Be cautious on major highways—road accidents are common, especially on the Nairobi–Mombasa route. Only take taxis via reputable services (Uber, Bolt) and travel with guides where needed.
Can I wear shorts in Kenya?
Yes, you can wear shorts in cities like Nairobi and beach resorts like Mombasa or Diani Beach. For safaris, earthy-coloured shorts (khaki, olive) are practical. Choose modest clothing when visiting rural areas, religious sites, or local villages—longer skirts or lightweight pants are recommended.
What not to take to Kenya?
- Plastic bags are banned—avoid bringing single-use or duty-free plastic bags.
- Bright, black, or blue clothing should be avoided on safari—it can attract tsetse flies and wildlife attention.
- Camouflage or military-style clothing may be restricted and can attract scrutiny.
- Drones require permits—don’t bring one without clearance.
- Expensive jewellery or large groups of valuables are best left at home to avoid petty theft.
Conclusion: 10 Things to know before Travelling to Kenya
From packing smart to respecting local customs, these essentials ensure you can immerse yourself fully in the rich experiences Kenya has to offer. Embrace Kenya’s vibrant culture, natural wonders, and warm hospitality, and get ready for an unforgettable journey.