Country guides
Africa
Kenya has held a powerful attraction for visitors ever since early European explorers and intrepid settlers brought back tales of endless plains filled with antelope, man-eating lions and mountain peaks. The country is certainly the premier African safari destination, offering unparalleled wild-game experiences in its iconic parks: the Maasai Mara with its vast rolling grassland; Amboseli's regal elephant herds; and the dramatic vistas of the Great Rift Valley. Peak safari time is the mid-year wildebeest migration, which is an unforgettable sight as millions of animals make an epic journey across the land seeking fresh pastures.
The physical diversity of the country is reflected in the many distinct cultural groups, of which the unmistakable Maasai people are of most interest to tourists seeking the classic images of Kenya's African identity. Kenya's coastline offers treasures of its own through its excellent beaches and resorts, where adventurers will find pristine coral reefs that are easily accessed by regular flights to Mombasa, the country's oldest and second-largest city.
Diani Beach lies a mere 30 kilometres (19 miles) south of Mombasa, and is one of East Africa's best destinations for snorkelling and scuba diving. Its kaleidoscopic coral reefs are home to equally brilliant clown and trigger fish, as well as green and hawksbill turtles, moray eels, stingrays, giant manta rays and whale sharks.
Those who venture further up the coast from Diani Beach will find Kilifi Creek, which is famous for its bioluminescent plankton. These glowing plankton respond to motion as visitors splash about in the dark, lighting up the water in a dazzling display that occurs in very few places around the world.
Away from the coast, adventurers can test themselves against Africa's second tallest peak, Mount Kenya. Though not as popular as Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Mount Kenya is considered the more challenging climb, and its breathtaking scenery features magnificent views of Kenya. Some visitors may even see Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance. A holiday in Kenya offers 'Africa in one country' and, ultimately, the blend of wildlife, beaches and mountains make it the perfect destination for anyone seeking romance or adventure.
Best time to visit Kenya
Kenya's weather is best over the winter months of June to September when both rainfall and temperatures are at their lowest. The wildebeest migration occurs sometime between early August and November, so this is also a popular time to visit. February and March can be very hot and humid.
What to see in Kenya
-Visit the Karen Blixen Museum near Nairobi to learn about the woman immortalised in Out of Africa.
-See the pink flamingos of Lake Nakuru Park, which is also renowned for its sightings of leopard and lion.
-Get up close and personal with herds of mighty elephants at Amboseli National Park, with the magnificent Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.
-Spend time in Mombasa and see the 16th century fort guarding the harbour entrance.
What to do in Kenya
-Experience the wild beauty and rolling savannahs of the Masai Mara Reserve.
-Watch the wildebeest migration from a hot-air balloon over the Masai Mara and Serengeti.
-Take a dhow trip from romantic and laid-back Lamu, Kenya's oldest town.
-Enjoy the perfect beaches of Malindi, also a base for excellent fishing and diving.
Getting to Kenya
There are direct flights to Kenya from many international cities via Jomo Kenyatta Airport, a major hub. There are also flights to Kenya from Europe to Mombasa's Moi International Airport.
Read
Out of Africa by Isak Dinesen, I Dreamed of Africa by Kuki Gallmann and Petals of Blood by Ngugi wa Thiong'o.
Watch
Out of Africa (1985), The Ghost and the Darkness (1996), The Constant Gardner (2005) and The White Masai (2005)
Eat
Local game such as zebra, crocodile and camel.
Drink
Tusker Lager or Tangawizi ginger ale for the teetotalers.
What to buy
Kisii stone (soap stone) carvings, Masai jewellery, Mkonde wood carvings, Lamu chairs and batiks.
What to pack
It gets hot and humid so bring a good hat, sun-screen and mosquito repellent spray; a light rain-jacket will be handy during the wet season.
What's on in Kenya
The Wildebeest Migration is one of the most majestic sights on earth, and takes place each year from June to August.
Did you know?
Kenya has 65 national parks and reserves, and 42 ethnic tribes, but only two official languages: English and Swahili.
A final word
Kenya is 'Africa in one country', with all the wild animals, natural beauty and ethnic diversity that entails.
Things to do in Kenya
There is an abundance of things to see and do in Kenya, a country which boasts some of Africa's most famous and sought-after tourist attractions. Kenya is essentially a dream destination for African wildlife safaris and most of its attractions revolve around the incredible game reserves, as well as the famous naturalists and wildlife professionals who have worked in the country.
Game viewing is a must as there are quintessential destinations near Nairobi such as the Masai Mara National Reserve, while Hell's Gate National Park is located in the Great Rift Valley. Travellers can visit Elsamere Conservation Centre or take in the natural splendour of Lake Naivasha. They can also head to the Karen Blixen Museum and enjoy the Giraffe Centre and the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage.
Another draw card for Kenyan tourism is the wonderful coastline and idyllic beaches. The warm waters of the Indian Ocean are ideal for swimming and watersports, and there are some well-preserved coral reefs to explore beneath the surface. There are a number of popular resorts along the Kenyan coast and Mombasa is an interesting port city. Kenya has pleasant weather throughout the year, making this a great beach holiday destination.
Kenya travel info
Electricity
The electrical current is 240 volts, 50Hz. UK-style square three-pin plugs are used.
Language
English is the official language but Swahili is the national language, with 42 ethnic languages spoken.
Money
The unit of currency is the Kenyan shilling (KES), which is divided into 100 cents. It is not advisable to take Kenyan Shillings out of the country, as they are difficult to exchange elsewhere. Foreign currency can be changed at banks, bureaux de change and hotels. It's easiest to exchange US dollars, pounds sterling or euros. International credit cards are accepted in the larger hotels and stores, and some camps and lodges. ATMs are widely available in Nairobi and other major towns.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in Kenya, though a 10 percent service charge may be added to the bill in more upmarket restaurants. Small change in local currency may be offered to taxi drivers, porters and waiters; safari drivers, guides and cooks often rely heavily on tips to get by, but these are discretionary.
Health
Travellers should get the latest medical advice on vaccinations and malaria prevention at least three weeks prior to departure. A malaria risk exists all year round in Kenya, but more so around Mombasa and the lower coastal areas than in Nairobi and on the high central plateau. Immunisation against yellow fever, polio and typhoid are usually recommended. A yellow fever certificate is required by anyone arriving from an infected area. Other risks include diarrheal diseases. Protection against bites from sandflies, mosquitoes, and tsetse flies is the best prevention against malaria and dengue fever, as well as other insect-borne diseases, including Rift Valley fever, sleeping sickness, leishmaniasis and Chikungunya fever. Water is of variable quality and visitors are advised to drink bottled water. There are good medical facilities in Nairobi and Mombasa but travel insurance is always advised.
Safety
There is a threat from Somali terrorist groups in Kenya and visitors should be vigilant in public places and tourist sites. Several bombings have targeted Mombasa, Nairobi and other cities in recent years, most blamed on the Al Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab group. Several governments have instituted travel warnings and alerts for parts of Kenya and travellers are advised to read up on the situation and which areas should be avoided before visiting the country.
Visitors should be alert to the threat of robberies and muggings at all times in Nairobi, but particularly at night. They should also be vigilant in Mombasa.
Banditry occurs in the northern areas and there have been armed attacks in the resort areas of northern Kenya near the border of Somalia. Several governments have advised against all but essential travel to coastal areas within 93 miles (150km) of the Somalian border, and inland areas within 37 miles (60km) of the border.
Piracy has also been a concern off the coast of Kenya. There have previously been incidents of attacks and hijackings of private vessels, though there have been no recent reports. Visitors should also take sensible precautions when driving. In particular, landmines have been used in attacks around Moyale, close to the main A2 road south. Vehicles crossing the border at this point should stay on the A2.
Local customs
Taking of photographs of official buildings is not advised and could lead to detention; photography is prohibited at airports. Coastal towns are predominantly Muslim and religious customs and sensitivities should be respected, particularly during Ramadan. Dress should be conservative away from the beaches and resorts, particularly for women. Homosexuality is against the law. Smoking in public places is illegal, other than in designated smoking areas, and violators will be fined or imprisoned.
Doing business
Business in Kenya tends to be conducted formally and conservatively, with the appropriate attire of a jacket and tie. Patience, cultural sensitivity, tolerance for uncertainty and the ability to build personal relationships with business associates are all central to successfully doing business in the country.
Ethnic division and corruption undermine the Kenyan economy, but they are realities in the business world of Kenya. Despite red tape and numerous pitfalls, Kenya is a land of business opportunity and the IT and telecoms sectors are rapidly expanding.
The concept of harambee is important in local business culture, and involves a sense of community, responsibility and mutual assistance. Deference to seniority is important, as is social standing, while using official titles is key during introductions and greetings.
Terse statements should be avoided and controlling one's emotions is vitally important. While punctuality is key and meetings should begin on time, they often don't end on time. When introducing a new deal, it's important to illustrate respect for tradition and history. Deals generally only close when it is clear that all the possible information has been considered and deliberated upon.
Interpersonal relationships add to business success, and understanding Kenyan culture and history is a great way of building business contacts. Building a solid business relationship is prioritised over meeting deadlines and closing deals.
English is the language of business. Business hours run from 9am to 5pm on weekdays and dress style should be formal with suits or smart-casual wear. Gifts are important and generally expected. Taking time to greet everyone and enquire about the health of their family will ensure a smooth business meeting.
Respect for elders is important too, and if foreigners are invited to dinner, they should never begin eating until the eldest member has started. Also, foreigners should refrain from leaving food on their plate. In introductions, clasping an elder or key business associate's wrist with the other hand while shaking hands conveys respect.
Duty free
Travellers to Kenya over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 250g tobacco products; 1 litre of spirits; and 500ml perfume. Prohibited items include fruit, imitation firearms, and children's toys pistols. No plants may be brought into the country without a Plant Import Permit (PIP).
Communications
The international access code for Kenya is +254. Area codes are also in use. Purchasing a local SIM card is simple and most hotels, restaurants and cafes in tourist areas offer free WiFi access.
Passport & Visa
All foreign passengers to Kenya must hold proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in the country, return or onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. Most foreign nationals require a visa, and some foreign nationals can obtain visas on arrival in Kenya, provided that their passport is in good condition, and they have at least one blank page in their passport for the visa endorsement. The visa fee is payable in USD, GBP or EUR, cash only. On-arrival visas are valid for three months. It is also possible to obtain an e-visa prior to departure for Kenya. A valid, 90 day, multiple entry or re-entry "East African Tourist Visa" issued by Rwanda or Uganda will suffice, provided the passanger in posession of the document has previously entered the country that first issued the visa. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Kenya if arriving within six days of leaving or transiting through an infected area. It is highly recommended that travellers' passport have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry requirements
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Kenya. A visa is not required, but travellers must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before departure.
UK citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Kenya, with at least two blank pages. A visa is not required, but an eTA must be obtained online before travel.
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Kenya. A visa is not required, but travellers must apply for an eTA online before arrival.
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Kenya. A visa is not required, but an eTA must be obtained online prior to travel.
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Kenya. A visa is not required, but travellers must still apply for an eTA online before travel. South African citizens are exempt from the eTA fee.
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Kenya. A visa is not required, but an eTA must be obtained online before departure.
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Kenya. A visa is not required, but an eTA must be obtained online before travel.
Useful contacts
Kenyan Tourist Board: +254 (0)20 271 1262 or www.magicalkenya.com
999 (General Emergencies)Climate in Kenya
The climate of Kenya ranges from tropical on the coast, where the weather is hot and humid, to the temperate nature of the inland regions. It is cool and wet in the highlands, and dry in the northern areas.
The capital, Nairobi, experiences cool winters and mild, pleasant summer temperatures. The best time to visit Kenya is probably during the dry season from January to March, and July to October. The rainy seasons in Kenya are April to June and October to early December.
The dry season is the best time for safaris as it's easier to see the animals when the grass is shorter and they congregate around the water holes. The annual migration in the Masai Mara is best seen from July to October, though the precise timing of this natural phenomenon varies each year.
The weather on the coast is pleasant year round but generally hot and humid conditions prevail, tempered by strong onshore breezes. The best time to holiday on the coast is from December to March, while April to May are the wettest months; there is also a short rainy season from October to November. The lowlands are hot and dry and the highlands (including Nairobi) are more temperate and cool at night.