Kenya Safari FAQs

As of January 2024, all travelers (except citizens of the East African Community) must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before entering Kenya. This replaces the old visa system. The application is entirely online, quick, and usually takes around 2–3 days to process.

Here’s what you need:

• A valid passport (with at least 6 months validity and two blank pages)
• A recent passport-sized photo
• Your flight and accommodation details
• A yellow fever certificate (if arriving from a risk country)

Print your approved eTA and carry it with your passport for border checks.

Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if you’re coming from or transiting through an affected country. Although Kenya doesn’t require COVID-19 vaccinations for entry, it’s advisable to have up-to-date vaccines such as hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus.

Always consult a travel doctor or your GP 4–6 weeks before travel. If you carry medication, keep it in its original packaging along with prescriptions.

The local currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES), but US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted. Carry small denominations of USD—larger notes or older bills may not be accepted.

Use cash for tips, shopping at local markets, and small purchases. Major lodges and hotels accept Visa and Mastercard, but bush camps often don’t. Expect a 3–5% fee for card payments.

Tipping is customary and appreciated. While not mandatory, it directly supports local guides and staff. Here’s a basic guide per couple:

• Safari Guide: $40/day
• Camp/Lodge Staff (pooled): $40/day
• Driver/Transfer: $10 per service
• Safari Tracker: $10/day

Use USD cash for tips. If unsure, ask the lodge manager—they’ll guide you on proper etiquette.

For light aircraft flights (e.g., Safarilink), the luggage limit is 15kg per person, including hand luggage. Bags must be soft-sided, such as duffel bags, to fit in small plane compartments.

Avoid hard cases or wheeled suitcases. If you have excess baggage for multi-country trips, some airports allow temporary luggage storage.

Pack light, breathable clothes in neutral colors like beige, brown, and olive. Include:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunhat and sunglasses
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Binoculars and a camera
• Personal medications and overnight essentials in your carry-on

Plastic bags are banned in Kenya; use cloth or eco-friendly alternatives instead. Most lodges offer laundry (excluding undergarments due to local customs).

Expect fresh, delicious meals at safari lodges and camps. In the bush, enjoy hearty breakfasts, grilled meats, stews, and salads made from local produce.

Along the coast, indulge in Swahili-style seafood with influences from Arabic and Indian cuisine—think coconut curries, samosas, and spiced rice. Most dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.) can be accommodated with advance notice.

Your tour operator usually arranges all transfers. Upon arrival in Kenya, you’ll be greeted by a local representative who will assist with immigration and luggage.

For safari flights, your aircraft may stop at multiple airstrips en route to your destination. Schedules are finalized on the day, and your guide will provide you with an update on timing and routes.

Yes, here are some important ones:

• Plastic bags are banned—do not carry any into the country.
• Always carry a photo ID (physical copy is best).
• Dress modestly in rural areas or during religious seasons.
• Don’t photograph airports or government buildings.
• Smoking in public is only allowed in designated areas.

Being respectful of local customs goes a long way in ensuring a warm and welcoming experience.

Yes, Kenya is one of the top safari destinations and is generally safe for tourists. Most safari camps are situated in secure, private conservancies or national parks, and they are staffed by trained personnel.

Stay alert in urban areas, such as Nairobi, and follow your guide’s instructions while on safari. Don’t wander out of your camp after dark, and always travel with a licensed operator.