Think of Kenya and your mind instantly fills with exquisite scenes of safari jeeps and beautiful beaches lapped by the Indian Ocean.
But the incredible experiences stretch beyond Kenya's natural landscapes – Nairobi offers exciting urban and cultural encounters, too.
Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of a trip to this East African nation, from clothing and etiquette to safety and visas.
1. Check the visa requirements for Kenya
Many nationalities need to obtain a visa before departing for Kenya. Check the official visa website and allow time to complete your application. Random checks can mean extra questions for some travelers, even after submission and payment.
You won’t receive an email confirmation of your Kenya visa application or payment, so you need to log in to check its status. Once issued, print a color copy (or two) of the visa and payment and keep them on hand, even for domestic flights, such as between Nairobi and Mombasa.
The good news for citizens of African countries is visas for Kenya will be a thing of the past next year. The Kenyan President, William Ruto, recently announced that visa requirements will end for all African nations by the end of 2023.
Proof of a COVID-19 vaccination and a negative PCR test is no longer required to enter Kenya. However, travelers exhibiting flu-like symptoms will be required to take a PCR test and fill out a passenger locator form.
2. Pack smart for Kenya – it’s not always hot
Early morning safaris can be chilly, so it’s wise to take layers for a trip to Kenya. Similarly, temperatures can drop at night in the highlands. Fleeces and even windproof waterproofs are recommended.
On the other hand, staying cool is key by the coast or in the city. Pack cool, breathable fabrics and always cover up in the midday sun.
3. Leave your plastics at home
Kenya banned single-use plastic bags in 2017, so leave any carrier bags (and preferably single-use plastic water bottles and straws) at home. The bag ban is countrywide – luggage is often scanned, so don’t pack shoes or other items in plastic bags.
Single-use plastic bottles and straws are banned in national parks – bring a reusable water bottle from home.
4. Do you need malaria tablets for Kenya? Probably.
The risk of malaria is low in Nairobi, and in the highlands above 2500m (8200ft), but you should still avoid being bitten. The majority of Kenya falls into a malarial zone, so take advice on which antimalarial is best suited to you between atovaquone/proguanil, doxycycline or mefloquine.
Brand names you might be more familiar with include Malarone and Lariam, but check with your physician, pharmacy or travel clinic. Ideally do this a month in advance of your trip, as you may have to begin taking the pills some time before your trip begins.
5. Greet people with “mambo” or “niaje”
“Jambo” is the best-known greeting in this fantastically friendly country, but if you want to show off your sheng (a Swahili and English combo originating among Nairobi’s younger population), try greeting people with “mambo vipi.” The common reply is “poa.” Alternatively, say “niaje,” to which someone will reply with “niaje.”
6. Feel free to bargain, but don’t go too far
A sense of humor is essential when bargaining. It’s fine to offer a lower price in markets and some shops – many sellers will start with a higher price, and it can be fun to barter and meet in the middle.
Few sellers will accept an offer that's too low so have some fun with it – just bear in mind what you’re prepared to pay, be respectful and don’t over-haggle.
7. Leaving a tip goes down a treat
Tipping isn’t expected in Kenya, but if you’ve had a good meal or service, leaving around 10% is appreciated. In hotels, you can also tip porters and housekeeping staff. Some calculate it at Ksh100 to Ksh200 a day while others round it up at the end. Keep small change on you for tips and shopping in markets.
If you’re taking a taxi, round up to the nearest 100, but tips are not always necessary. Taxi apps are popular, and you can add a tip at the end of the journey through the app. Avoid giving money in exchange for preferential service.
8. Be respectful of local communities
Never take photos of people without asking permission, particularly in rural areas and in Mombasa. If you want to publish any photos, even on social media, it’s respectful to carry a consent form and say “asante” (thank you).
Be particularly conscious around children or other vulnerable people. If you’re given the OK to take a photo, show it to them after you've taken it. Think twice before visiting a school (or anywhere that would be strange or inappropriate for you to go to in your home country).
Also note: anyone taking photos of infrastructure, airports and the military may come under suspicion.
9. Dress appropriately – but don’t overthink it
Kenya is moderately conservative, but that doesn’t mean you need to cover your shoulders and knees everywhere. In Nairobi, in towns and on safari, shorts, dresses and sleeveless tops are fine to wear, and the same goes for most beach resorts, although walking around in swimwear isn’t appropriate.
In Muslim communities such as Lamu Town, dressing more conservatively is advised. Loose clothing can be more comfortable in the heat.
10. Don’t rush – go with the flow
It’s misleading to suggest the whole of Kenya operates on some slower “Kenya time” – Nairobi can have the same pace and rhythm as any major city. But the heat and humidity of the coastal areas, around Mombasa, Malindi and Lamu for example, can mean life needs to be lived at a more relaxed pace.
Bear that in mind before expecting certain tasks and services to be carried out immediately, and instead, go with the flow and enjoy a pole pole (“slowly” in Swahili) way of life.
11. You can boil the tap water in Kenya and drink it
Tap water in Kenya isn’t off-limits. If you have the facilities, you can boil the tap water – it’s soft and sweet – and drink it once cooled.
Obviously, that's not always an option, in which case filtered water in restaurants and hotels is safe. You can buy plastic-bottled water, but it’s obviously a lot more ecofriendly to bring your own reusable bottle and water filter or tablets.
12. Pack a power bank
Power cuts in Kenya can occur (they’re usually not for long), so if you rely on your smartphone, take a power bank and ensure it’s always charged. Take a spare camera battery if you're going on safari – and a decent flashlight is helpful in case of power cuts but also when walking around the safari camp at night.
In addition to helping you navigate in low light, it will help you look out for insects and snakes. Headlamps are especially handy on a campsite for reading and for nighttime bathroom trips.
13. Don’t be scared by headlines, but know your geography
People often ask, “Is Kenya safe for tourists?” Few incidents involve tourists, especially in game reserves and tourist areas, but there are a few areas it's better to avoid.
These include but are not limited to, within 60km (37 miles) of the Kenya-Somalia border, Garissa County and Lamu County (excluding Lamu Island and Manda Island – travel by air if you're planning a visit).
Check the latest guidelines from your government before traveling. In Nairobi, as with any major city, keep valuables safe and your wits about you.
14. Keep embassy and consulate details to hand
Wherever you’re from, it’s savvy to know the contact details of your embassy or consulate. Take photos of your passport, visa and other documents, so you can access them on your phone or email.
Carry an original form of ID if possible. A driver's license is useful if you don’t want to carry your passport with you every day.
