Important Travel Information

BEST TIME TO VISIT KENYA

The best time to visit Kenya is traditionally from July to March. The classic safari is from July to September, as this is when the Mara provides one of nature's most dramatic spectacles, the annual migration of over a million wildebeest and zebras, teeming from the south to cross the Mara River into the Masai Mara National Reserve.

KENYA & TANZANIA BORDER POINTS

The major crossing point between Kenya and Tanzania is at the small town of Namanga, which is open 24 hours a day. Other official crossing points include Taveta and Isebania near Lake Victoria.

VISAS

All incoming visitors to Kenya (except East African Citizens) will now require a visa, irrespective of nationality. Visa requirements often change from time to time and we advise you to check with your local Kenyan Embassy or Consulate for the latest visa requirements.

PHOTOGRAPHY

It is strongly recommended that each person has his/her own pair of binoculars. These need not be of an expensive make, but on safari they are essential for watching birds and animals in the distance. Please make sure that you are thoroughly familiar with all your equipment before starting your safari.

SECURITY

All The Kenyan tourist circuits are normally be very safe for visitors. This has been due to concerted efforts by stakeholders and the Kenya Government to ensure that visitors enjoy their stay without any security concerns. But visitors are strongly advised to take normal precautions as we do have our share of petty crime especially in major cities.

BANKS

All major currencies can be changed in East Africa, there are in principle no restriction in dealing with foreign currencies. Barclays Bank, Standard Chartered Bank and Kenya Commercial Bank, which have a substantial network of branches in Kenya, also in the resorts, provide local currency at ATMs against Visa or Master card. Many banks are now equipped with 24 hour ATM machines. The Bank branches at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi) and Moi International Airport Mombasa and Malindi Airport all run 24 hour Forex services.

HEALTH

There are no compulsory vaccinations required for entry to Kenya unless you are arriving from an area infected with Yellow Fever, in which case a Certificate of Inoculation against Yellow Fever is required from travellers older than one year. Visitors coming from other countries in Africa where Yellow Fever may occur, including Tanzania and Zanzibar, require a Yellow Fever certificate.

The other recommended vaccinations are Typhoid, Hepatitis and Polio, and anti-malarial medication is essential. Anti-malarial drugs should be taken prior to arrival and should be continued for 4 weeks after leaving Kenya. It is also advisable to try and avoid mosquito bites by using repellent and by wearing suitable cover-up clothes in the evening.

There are good hospitals in the main towns of Kenya while the rural areas have small health centres where one can get basic first aid. It is absolutely essential that all visitors carry some form of medical insurance to cater for any eventualities.

CURRENCY

The official currency in Kenya is Kenya shilling which is is freely exchangeable, and most major facilities accept major credit cards. Travellers Cheques are widely accepted, and many hotels, travel agencies, safari companies and restaurants accept Credit Cards. Most Banks in Kenya are equipped to advance cash on credit cards. There are no restrictions on the amount of foreign currency that can be brought into Kenya. Before departure, travellers are advised to convert any excess Kenya shillings into foreign currency at a bank or bureau de change.

SHOPPING

If you'd like to take home more than just memories of your trip to Kenya, you'll find a wide range of local products that make ideal souvenirs or gifts. Kenyan products are as diverse and unique as the country itself. There are traditional artefacts, fantastic jewellrey, beautiful carvings, the world's best coffee, precious stones, furniture, beautiful cloth, excellent local music, wonderful modern art and so much more to be found. Excellent, well stocked gift shops can be found in may hotels, lodges and camps throughout the country. Bargaining is the expected norm in the local markets and even in some shops throughout Kenya. The art of bargaining has deep roots in Kenyan culture, and is regarded as an essential business skill. Visitors to Kenya should never be afraid to bargain, it is expected and rarely considered offensive.

FOOD AND WINE

Hotel cuisine is excellent in most camps, lodges and hotels and is usually buffet style, offering a wide variety. Most hotels have a specialty. These are very popular and some require table reservations especially on Fridays and weekends. Fish and meat are widely eaten and are of excellent quality. Fresh vegetables & fruits are readily available as well as tasty vegetarian dishes. Plenty of spice & chillies are used in local dishes. Kenya produces good wines and beers of various brands. Fresh fruit juice is plentiful and available in most restaurants and bars.

ELECTRICITY

220/240 volts AC. Plugs are the UK-type, round 2-pin or flat 3-pin. If you are planning to bring a video camera charger or any other electrical advice, please bring voltage and plug adapters where appropriate.

WATER

It is not advisable to drink tap water anywhere in East Africa. Most hotels and lodges will provide complimentary half litre bottle of water per person in the room every day. Bottled mineral water for buying is widely available.

 

 



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