Lying on Africa’s east coast, bordering the Indian Ocean, Kenya is a fascinating country. Nairobi, its current capital, is the largest city in Africa between Cairo in the north and Johannesburg in the south. A modern city ablaze with color from tropical bushes and vines, it was founded in 1899 by the colonial authorities in British East Africa. Kenya is widely known as the ultimate safari destination, filled with fantastic reserves and national parks, most notably the legendary Masai Mara. The jewel in Africa’s crown, the Masai Mara's 1,510 km² of open savannah, woodlands, and tree-lined rivers host a spectacular array of wildlife. By day, see a host of animals while keeping a lookout for the "Big 5" - lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. By night, enjoy spectacular African sunsets, big skies, and the sounds of nocturnal wildlife. The word safari means “journey” in Swahili, and this journey is truly magical, altering your soul forever.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
**Requirements due to COVID-19 are constantly changing. Please check your own country's international travel advice as well as the airline requirements before travel.**
UK guests please see the UK Government Foreign Office Travel website for the latest entry and exit advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/kenya/entry-requirements
US guests please see the Travel State website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Kenya.html
**For those traveling on the Kenya tour extension to Rwanda: Please check the requirements for entry to Rwanda, as they differ from those for Kenya.
Passports
All travelers must have a valid passport, valid for at least 6 months after your expected return date, with at least two facing blank visa pages available. Please fill out the "Emergency Next of Kin" section in your passport.
Visas
As of January 2024, Kenya is visa-free for many travelers. Most visitors are required to apply online for an electronic travel authorization (eTA) in advance of travel. You can apply for your eTA via the website: https://www.etakenya.go.ke/en
- eTA applications should be submitted at least 3 working days prior to travel.
- Travelers can submit applications up to 3 months prior to travel, but visas must be valid for the full duration for the expected stay in Kenya.
**All nationalities must check the visa entry requirements before your departure.
Consular Information
Several major international embassies, including those for the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK, are located in Nairobi. Embassies for other countries, such as New Zealand, are located in other African cities but offer coverage to Kenya. Please check with your government for relevant contact details.
**Note: Visa and entry requirements, regulations, and restrictions can change. Ensure you check the current requirements well in advance of travel.
HEALTH, INSURANCE AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Travel Insurance
All passengers must have valid travel insurance before traveling, including health and cancellation insurance. Ensure all pre-existing medical conditions are declared to the insurer. Provide the details of your insurance to The Big Journey Company at least 6 weeks before your departure date. Take note of important information such as the insurer’s 24-hour emergency number and your policy number.
General Health
Consult your doctor or travel health clinic at least eight weeks before travel for necessary health information. Use sunscreen, drink plenty of water, wash your hands before eating, and avoid insect bites. Bring insect repellent spray and a simple first-aid kit. While on safari, lodges are sprayed nightly with insect repellent.
Passengers with Disabilities or Reduced Mobility
The Kenya Safari Tour is an Activity Level 1 tour involving moderate physical activity over short periods. The Rwanda Gorilla tour extension requires a Level 3 mobility and is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Check our Activity Levels description page or contact us for more information.
Medical Conditions and Personal Medication
Advise us prior to travel if you have any medical conditions requiring special attention. Carry a sufficient supply of any medications, copies of prescriptions, and your doctor’s contact information. Some countries require prescription drugs to be in their original containers with visible labels.
Vaccinations
Consult your doctor for the latest immunization information and advice based on your travel plans and medical history. Check if you need a Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate. Other recommended vaccinations may include Hepatitis A, Polio, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Hepatitis B, Meningococcal Meningitis, Rabies, and Cholera. Refer to CDC Travel Health for more information.
LUGGAGE
What to Pack and Wear
Pack light, comfortable clothing such as vests/t-shirts, shorts/light trousers for daytime. Bring a jumper/fleece or jacket for cooler early mornings. In the evenings, wear long tops and trousers to reduce insect bites. Comfortable footwear is recommended. Pack swimwear for pools at the lodges. Don’t forget sunscreen and any necessary medication.
Luggage Allowances
Check with your airline for specific luggage requirements. We recommend one main suitcase (preferably soft-sided) and hand luggage. If your tour includes domestic flights, there is a strict 15kg/33lb luggage limit. Kenya and Rwanda tours include an international flight with a luggage limit of 23kg/50lb for the main suitcase plus 8kg/17lb hand luggage.
Porterage
Luggage handling is included in our Kenya tour.
Laundry
Laundry services may be available in some hotels on the tour.
LANGUAGE
The main languages of Kenya are English and Swahili, with many regional languages spoken by different tribes. English is widely spoken in urban areas.
TIME ZONE
The time zone in Kenya is GMT+3, three hours ahead of London GMT.
WEATHER
The weather in Kenya will be warm, between 20-32°C, with cooler temperatures at night. On safari, it will be dry and dusty.
ELECTRICITY
In Kenya, the standard voltage is 240V, and the frequency is 50Hz. You will need a UK-style plug adapter and/or converter for your electrical appliances.
COMMUNICATION
Kenya has a good communications infrastructure with national cellphone coverage and established landline networks. In urban areas, mobile signals and internet access are reliable. Check data roaming charges with your service provider before leaving home.
MONEY
Currency
The currency of Kenya is the Kenyan shilling (KES), but US Dollars are widely accepted. Carry both Kenyan shillings and US dollars (notes printed after 2006). Credit cards are accepted at lodges, but it’s advisable to carry cash. Inform your bank if you plan to use debit or credit cards in Kenya.
Budget
Most meals and entrances are included in your tour price. You may need money for drinks, daily bottled water, and additional excursions, such as Masai Mara village visits, boat rides at Naivasha, and walks along the Mara River. Estimated additional cost: $210 per person. Souvenirs are available throughout the trip.
Tipping
We offer a group tipping package for this tour. More information will be provided in your pre-tour emails.
FOOD AND WATER
Most meals are included. Drink only bottled or treated water. Avoid tap water unless it has been boiled, filtered, or chemically disinfected. Bottled water is widely available.
SHOPPING
Kenya offers colorful handicrafts and materials. Retail shops are typically open from 9am – 6pm Monday to Saturday. Some shops are open on Sundays. VAT refunds are available in some shops.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
While major crime levels are low, petty theft such as bag snatching and mugging can occur. Be vigilant, especially in airports and popular tourist areas. Always follow park regulations and wardens’ advice in game reserves. Carry a form of ID at all times and avoid walking alone at night.
SMOKING
Smoking is banned in most indoor public places. Designated outdoor smoking areas are available. In nature reserves, ask about smoking areas to protect the environment.
RELIGION
Kenya is predominantly Christian (70%), with significant Muslim and Hindu populations.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Kenya offers numerous photo opportunities. Bring your camera, charger, spare batteries, and a memory card.
ARRIVAL IN KENYA
Standard hotel check-in is around 3pm. If arriving early, your room may not be ready. Arrange airport transfers through The Big Journey Company or your hotel. Do not leave the airport with anyone until you have met our representative.
TOUR HOTEL INFORMATION
Check your tour paperwork for hotel information.
OTHER COUNTRIES ON TOUR ITINERARY
For those continuing to Rwanda and other African countries, check the relevant Travel Tip pages for information.
FLYING AND TRAVEL HINTS
- Photocopy personal information pages of your passport and leave a copy at home and take a copy with you.
- Carry all travel documentation and valuables in your hand luggage.
- Follow duty-free shopping limits.
- Wear loose clothing and comfortable shoes on long flights, walk in the aisles, and drink plenty of fluids (avoid alcohol).
- Try to sleep during the flight and adjust to local time upon arrival.
For further questions, contact us at: info@thebigjourneycompany.com
Disclaimer: The above information is provided as a guideline only. The Big Journey Company assumes no liability for any errors or omissions in this document.
Updated June 2024