PASSPORT & ENTRY
As a new traveller, here’s some important information to keep in mind:
Make sure you have a return ticket and ensure your passport remains valid for at least 6 months after your intended stay.
All previous visa entry requirements for Kenya are now replaced by the requirement of ETAs. All e-visas currently in process will be issued and travellers with existing e-visas will be granted access to Kenya within the validity period of 90 days, without the additional requirement of an ETA.
Travellers are eligible to apply for ETAs within 3 months of their arrival date in Kenya. Following the application, a confirmation will be sent to the email address submitted in the application. Upon approval, the ETA will be sent to the same email address.
Standard processing time for ETAs is three working days and the status of applications can be checked at any time on the ETA website using the ETA reference number. You can find more details and apply at: https://etakenya.go.ke/en.
HEALTH
When planning to visit East Africa, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider at least 6 weeks before your trip. When it comes to vaccinations, while there are no mandatory shots for entering Kenya, it’s recommended that you get certain vaccines and consider malaria tablets.
You should also check the latest recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention or National Travel Health Network and Centre for more information.
If you’re traveling from or between countries where Yellow Fever is a common concern, you will need a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate. It’s strongly advised to get information from the Yellow Fever health authority in your home country well in advance of your travel dates.
Travellers’ Insurance and Evacuation
All travellers must have travel insurance or enough financial resources to cover potential costs in case of a medical emergency, trip disruption, or early termination of their journey.
SUGGESTED PACKING LIST
We suggest wearing long trousers and bringing a long-sleeved shirt or even a light sweater for game drives, as temperatures can get cool. Layering is a good approach!
Clothing:
- Lightweight trousers (khaki or similar muted colours)
- Jeans or “smart casual” evening attire
- Shorts and T-shirts
- Long-sleeved t-shirt or turtleneck
- Cardigan/sweater/fleece for evenings
- Windbreaker or light jacket
- Comfortable closed-in shoes
- Sunglasses and sunhat
Toiletries & Electronics:
- Sunscreen and Lip balm with SPF
- Mosquito repellent
- Power bank and charging cables
- Camera and spare batteries
- Binoculars
GENERAL INFORMATION
Plastics Ban in Kenya
Kenya instituted a complete ban on the use, manufacture, and importation of plastic bags in 2017. This means that carrying plastic bags, even in your luggage, is prohibited. Instead of plastic bags, travellers should use reusable bags made of cloth or other environmentally friendly materials.
Currency & Tipping
The official currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES), but US dollars are commonly accepted. Tipping is incredibly subjective. There are times you might not leave anything, other times you might want to leave your full wallet! On average, previous clients have indicated to us they add around 10% of the total trip cost as tip money to distribute as they see fit. It may be different for you. This is completely your call.
A few things to consider: Guides are usually tipped separately from any other staff you may encounter (for example, at the camps). Where possible, tip directly to the staff as opposed to putting into a tip box. This ensures that each staff gets their tips directly.
SAFARI ETIQUETTE
- Listen to your guide for safety and comfort.
- Please do not litter. Carry any litter back to camp.
- Stay in the vehicle at all times.
- Do not disturb wildlife; they have right of way.
- Keep sounds low and avoid flash photography.
