Kenya, with its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and diverse wildlife, is a destination that captures the hearts of travelers from around the globe. Here is everything important you need to know before Visiting Kenya either for the first time or for a return session, especially if you wanna hear inputs about Kenya from a local.
Most people visiting Kenya are for Safari purposes, but there is lots more Kenya offers, and will all be discussed in this post to make the best use of the few days or weeks you plan to have here.
Kenyan Visa Application in 2024
The Kenyan Visa can be obtained conveniently through the eCitizen platform under the eVisa section. The tourist Visa, categorized as a category 1 Visa, is the simplest to acquire, priced at $51, and allows for a stay of 30 days. It’s important to note that certain nationalities are exempt from the Visa requirement when entering Kenya.
Upon reaching the immigration desk at the airport, travelers have the option to apply for a category 2 Visa, which extends the validity period to 90 days.
Safety First
Let’s address the elephant in the room—safety. Kenya, by and large, is a safe country for tourists. Like any destination, there are areas that may be considered sketchy, but with proper precautions, your visit can be trouble-free.
Exercise common sense, stay informed about your surroundings, and seek the advice of locals and authorities. It is advisable to even have a local guide with you to help you around run errands and visit places.
Don’t wear flashy jewelry as it makes you stand out and makes you a potential target. And don’t have your phone out, snatch-and-grabs are common. There is nothing like armed robbery here, just occasional pick pocketing especially in the congested CBD which I will generally discourage you from touring unless it is necessary, and even so exercise caution.
Don’t take your phone out in the car unless the window is up/door is locked, some petty thieves will reach through windows to grab it, especially in traffic.
General Information about Kenya
One of the most notable aspects of Kenya is its friendly people. Kenyans are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature, which can significantly enhance your travel experience. Don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with locals; you might discover hidden gems or receive valuable tips.
The laws are just ordinary, nothing special here or illegal that isn’t elsewhere. Police are however corrupt and will always ask for bribes for no reason, and so is it in almost all government institutions to get service.
Money
Managing your finances in Kenya is relatively straightforward. Upon arrival at the airport, you can exchange currency to Kenyan Shillings (KES) to cover immediate expenses.
Additionally, consider utilizing M-PESA, a widely used mobile wallet accepted in various establishments across the country. MPESA is the most preferred payment service, beating even cards at convenience and intuitiveness.
While credit and debit cards are accepted in major cities and tourist hubs, it’s advisable to carry cash, especially in remote areas where electronic payment options may be limited.
Phone Service
In today’s digital age, staying connected is essential for navigation, communication, and financial transactions. Safaricom, a leading telecommunications provider, offers reliable network coverage and is recommended for accessing ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt, as well as making mobile payments through M-PESA, streamlining your travel experience.
You can get the SIM card upon arrival at the airport, there is a Safaricom Shop, and can also activate MPESA there.
Additional telecommunication providers in Kenya include Airtel and Telkom, offering more budget-friendly calling and data rates compared to Safaricom. However, it’s worth noting that Telkom may not be the most reliable choice due to connectivity issues. Airtel, on the other hand, performs adequately in urban areas but experiences signal strength limitations in remote regions.
Despite being pricier, Safaricom remains the preferred option for many due to its widespread adoption, reliable signal strength, and the convenience of MPESA services.
Accommodation
When it comes to accommodation, Kenya offers a range of choices to suit every budget and preference. While hotels provide comfort and convenience, they can be pricey, particularly in tourist hotspots.
Consider alternative options such as Airbnb, which offers affordable and authentic experiences, allowing you to immerse yourself in local culture. Neighborhoods popular for tourist is in Westlands area, it is one of the affluent neighborhoods in the city, and generally safe.
Transportation
Within the Nairobi City and other major cities like Nakuru, Eldoret, and Mombasa, Ride sharing apps esp. Uber and Bolt are the best, and convenient options for moving to a designated place
Taxis are the best option if you are visiting a series of places, since you can agree on an hourly rate or a full day rate with the driver
If you are leaving Nairobi for upcountry, then renting a car is the best option. You can get a 4×4 truck for just under $100/day.
While public transportation is what majority of the locals use, I wouldn’t recommend it for visitors as it is not the most comfortable, you can try it for the thrill tho, and connect with the locals that way.
Places to Visit
Exploring Kenya’s renowned landmarks is essential for any visitor. From Nairobi’s vibrant urban center to the stunning vistas of Amboseli National Park and the cultural tapestry of Lamu Island, the country offers a wealth of experiences.
Lake Nakuru National Park, while known for its rhinos, and flamingoes but may be a little underwhelming. The Maasai Mara region, on the other hand, boasts a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, cheetahs, leopards, buffalo, and lions.
A well-planned itinerary should include visits to attractions like Hell’s Gate near Lake Naivasha providing opportunities for unique experiences. Lake Naivasha and Mount Longonot offer additional outdoor adventures like hiking and biking.
The Nairobi Safari Walk is a noteworthy attraction, as it is part of the Nairobi National Park within the city, showcasing Kenya’s wildlife. Additionally, City Park in Nairobi provides a chance to interact with monkeys, adding to the city’s charm.
Mombasa features attractions such as Fort Jesus and Old Town, although its hot and humid climate may not be very pleasant. Diani Beach is highly recommended for its relaxed atmosphere, contrasting with the bustling city of Mombasa.
Flying Drones in Kenya
To fly even personal drones legally, individuals must acquire a costly certificate, priced at nearly $150, and submit an application to the Civil Aviation Authority of Kenya well in advance, typically three months prior to the intended flight date.
This can be a deal breaker if you wanted to document your travel experience, Kenya is generally not a drone friendly country, so its best that you leave it at the airport for storage, or just don’t pack it on your trip to Kenya.
Links
Your Guide to the 7 Best Wildlife Centers in Nairobi
5 Must Visit Travel Destinations in Kenya
10 Reasons to move Nairobi as an Expat or Digital Nomad
Kenyan Meals: Your Guide to the Top 10 Famous Dishes
Your Guide to Nairobi Airport: (NBO) Jomo Kenyatta-JKIA
