TIPS AND ADVICE
VISA-FREE TRAVEL TO KENYA
Kenya abolished Visa requirements for all visitors starting 1st January, 2024. However, a digital platform https://www.etakenya.go.ke has been developed to ensure that all travelers to Kenya are identified in advance through an electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. Read more https://sunupadventures.com/kenya-electronic-travel-authorization-eta-application-guide-visa-free-travel-to-kenya/
ARRIVAL IN NAIROBI
Welcome to Nairobi, the gateway to some of the most spectacular safari destinations in Africa! Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya and is located in the southern part of the country. It’s a bustling city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and plenty of attractions to explore before heading off on your safari adventure.
If you’re arriving at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you can easily get to your hotel or safari lodge by taxi or private transfer. To book for a private Nairobi Airport pickup services by Sunup Adventures CLICK HERE.
Once you’re settled in, you can start exploring Nairobi’s many attractions, such as the Nairobi National Park, the Giraffe Centre, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage, and the Karen Blixen Museum. You can also try local cuisine and visit markets like the Maasai Market to buy souvenirs and gifts.
When you’re ready to start your safari adventure, there are many options to choose from, including Amboseli National Park, Maasai Mara National Reserve, Tsavo National Park, and many others. At Sunup Adventures we help you plan your safari activities and provide transportation to and from the park. To book a Kenya Safari with Sunup Adventures CLICK HERE
We hope you have a wonderful safari experience in Kenya!
SAFETY IN KENYA
As with any travel destination, it’s important to be aware of safety concerns when traveling to Kenya. While Kenya is a generally safe country, there are some areas that are considered higher risk, particularly in and around the Somali border and along the coast.
To stay safe while traveling in Kenya, here are some precautions you can take:
- Be aware of your surroundings: be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times, especially when traveling in unfamiliar areas.
- Use reputable tour operators: when booking tours or safaris, use reputable tour operators and companies that have a good track record for safety and security.
- Avoid political demonstrations: avoid political demonstrations and large gatherings, especially if they have the potential to turn violent.
- Be cautious with valuables: keep your valuables such as your passport, money, and electronics in a safe place and be cautious when displaying them in public.
- Follow local customs and laws: respect local customs and laws, and be mindful of cultural sensitivities.
- Stay informed: stay up-to-date on the latest safety and security information by checking your government’s travel advisories and local news sources.
- Seek advice: seek advice from your hotel staff or local authorities on safety concerns in the area you plan to vIsit.
By taking these precautions, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Kenya.
VACCINATIONS
If you are planning to visit Kenya and are considering getting vaccinated, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider or a travel medicine specialist to determine which vaccines you need based on your individual health status, travel itinerary, and activities.
Some vaccines that are commonly recommended for travelers to Kenya include:
- Yellow fever vaccine: Yellow fever is a viral disease that is transmitted by mosquitoes and can be found in certain parts of Kenya. A yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required for entry into Kenya, especially if you are arriving from a country where yellow fever is endemic.
- Typhoid vaccine: Typhoid is a bacterial infection that is spread through contaminated food and water, and it is a risk in Kenya, particularly for travelers who will be visiting rural areas or staying for an extended period.
- Hepatitis A vaccine: Hepatitis A is a viral infection that is also spread through contaminated food and water, and it is endemic in Kenya.
- Hepatitis B vaccine: Hepatitis B is a viral infection that is spread through infected blood and bodily fluids. It is recommended for travelers who may have close contact with locals, such as healthcare workers or those planning to undergo medical procedures.
- Rabies vaccine: Rabies is a viral infection that is transmitted by the bite of infected animals. If you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors or will have close contact with animals, a rabies vaccine may be recommended.
Again, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider or travel medicine specialist to determine which vaccines are recommended for you based on your individual circumstances.
INSURANCE
If you are planning to travel to Kenya, it is highly recommended that you purchase travel insurance to protect yourself in case of unexpected events such as trip cancellation, medical emergencies, theft, or loss of personal belongings.
When choosing travel insurance for Kenya, there are a few things to consider. First, make sure the policy covers medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation of remains. This is especially important in Kenya, where medical facilities may be limited in some areas.
You may also want to consider purchasing a policy that covers trip cancellation and interruption, as well as lost or stolen luggage and personal belongings. Additionally, it’s important to read the policy carefully to understand any exclusions or limitations, such as pre-existing medical conditions or hazardous activities.
When purchasing travel insurance, it’s a good idea to compare policies from multiple providers to find the right policy for your needs and budget.
AMREF FLYING DOCTORS TOURIST EVACUATION SCHEME (TES)
Amref Health Africa does offer tourist cover in Kenya. The cover is known as the Amref Flying Doctors Tourist Evacuation Scheme (TES) and is designed to provide emergency medical evacuation services to tourists who fall ill or suffer an accident while on safari or holiday in Kenya.
The TES covers medical evacuation by air ambulance to the nearest appropriate medical facility in Kenya or to the patient’s home country if required. It also provides medical advice over the phone, emergency medical treatment on the spot and transportation to the nearest medical facility if necessary.
The cost of the TES varies depending on the duration of the cover and the number of people covered. It is recommended that you purchase the cover before arrival in Kenya to ensure that you are covered from the moment you land.
It’s important to note that the TES is not a comprehensive travel insurance policy and does not cover other travel-related risks such as trip cancellation, lost luggage, or travel delays. You are advised to purchase separate travel insurance cover to protect yourself against such risks.
TIPPING
Tipping in Kenya is generally appreciated but it is not mandatory. Tipping is not a traditional practice in Kenya, but it has become increasingly common in recent years, especially in the hospitality industry.
In restaurants, a service charge of between 10% and 15% may be added to the bill, but if this is not included, a tip of around 10% of the total bill is considered appropriate. It is also common to tip safari drivers/guides, around USD 10 per person per day, depending on the level of service provided.
Overall, tipping in Kenya is a personal choice and should be based on the level of service received and the individual’s financial capability.
BEST TIME TO VISIT KENYA
The best time to visit Kenya will depend on your interests and travel plans. Generally, the country experiences two rainy seasons and two dry seasons each year. The long rainy season occurs from March to May, while the short rainy season occurs from October to December. The dry seasons are from January to February and from June to September.
If you’re interested in wildlife viewing, the best time to visit Kenya is during the dry season, especially from July to October, when the animals are more active and easier to spot because they gather around water sources. This is also the time when the annual wildebeest migration takes place in the Masai Mara.
If you’re interested in bird watching, the best time to visit Kenya is during the rainy season, when many migratory birds arrive in the country.
If you’re planning to visit the coastal areas of Kenya, the best time to go is from December to March, when the weather is dry and sunny.
Overall, Kenya is a year-round destination with plenty to offer visitors regardless of the season. However, it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast and travel advisories before planning your trip to ensure that you have the best possible experience.
DRESS CODE
When travelling to Kenya, it is important to dress appropriately and respectfully, especially if you plan to visit rural areas or conservative communities. Here are some general guidelines for dress code when travelling to Kenya:
- Modest clothing: It is recommended to wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites or conservative communities.
- Light-colored clothing: Kenya’s weather is warm and humid, so it is advisable to wear light-colored and breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen.
- Comfortable footwear: Kenya has a lot of outdoor activities, so it is essential to wear comfortable and sturdy shoes suitable for hiking, walking, or other outdoor activities.
- Sun protection: Kenya is located near the equator, so it is essential to wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
- Traditional attire: If you plan to visit rural areas or attend cultural events, it is recommended to wear traditional Kenyan attire, such as a kanga or kitenge.
Overall, it is important to be respectful of Kenyan culture and traditions when choosing your attire. Avoid wearing revealing or offensive clothing, and dress appropriately for the occasion.
PACKAGING LIST
Below you can find our carefully created packing list for your Africa safari holiday. Sunup Adventures wish you to have the most comfortable holiday!
- Passport, visa, and travel documents
- Travel insurance
- Cash and credit/debit cards
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light and breathable clothing, such as cotton shirts and shorts
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the strong sun
- Insect repellent
- Camera and/or binoculars to capture the natural beauty of the country
- Portable charger and power adapter
- Swimsuit, if you plan to visit the beach or go swimming
- A small backpack or daypack for day trips and hikes
- Medications and first aid kit
- Water bottle and hydration tablets to avoid dehydration
- Safari hat or cap
- Warm clothing for cooler evenings, such as a light jacket or sweater
- Personal hygiene items, such as toothbrush, toothpaste, and toiletries
- A book or e-reader for downtime or long flights.
It’s always a good idea to pack light and leave room for souvenirs or items you may buy during your trip. Also, depending on the time of year and your specific itinerary, you may need additional items such as rain gear or hiking boots.
BEST TIME TO WITNESS THE WILDEBEEST MIGRATION IN KENYA
The best time to witness the wildebeest migration in Kenya is generally between July and October. During this period, millions of wildebeest, along with zebras and gazelles, move from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve in search of food and water. The migration is a spectacular event, as the animals cross rivers and navigate through grasslands, attracting predators such as lions, cheetahs, and crocodiles.
It’s worth noting that the exact timing of the migration can vary from year to year, depending on rainfall patterns and other factors. Therefore, it’s a good idea to check with local tour operators and guides for the latest updates on the migration before planning your trip.
THE BIG FIVE AFRICAN ANIMALS
The “Big Five” African animals are:
- African elephant – the largest land animal on earth
- African lion – the king of beasts
- African leopard – a stealthy and elusive predator
- African buffalo – a formidable and dangerous herbivore
- African rhinoceros – a large, armored herbivore with two species, the black rhinoceros and the white rhinoceros
These animals were originally referred to as the “Big Five” by big-game hunters, as they were considered the most difficult and dangerous animals to hunt on foot. Today, however, they are more commonly seen as symbols of Africa’s diverse and unique wildlife heritage, and are popular attractions for tourists on safari.