When is the best time to visit Kenya?
Kenya is a year-round destination and it is possible to see wildlife at all times of the year. Depending on your interests, certain times may be better than others. For instance, if you want to see the Great Migration, this tends to travel through Kenya between June and October. However, even this can be difficult to determine, as the movements of the wildebeest depend on rain and weather conditions.
Is Kenya good for a beach holiday?
The Kenyan Coast is a beautiful and idyllic region that is extremely popular for its white sandy beaches, palm trees and relaxed holiday feel. The balmy waters of the Indian Ocean are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, diving, fishing and other water sports. We recommend including a beach visit to the end of a Kenya safari so that you are able to experience all that magical Kenya has to offer.
What should I bring with me on my Kenya Safari?
Your curiosity and sense of adventure, an open mind and enough memory cards for the camera! As a general guide, comfortable and casual clothing that you can wash and wear is recommended while on safari. Muted colours are best for game viewing. Game drives are generally conducted in the early morning and the late afternoon, which can be cold, especially in winter. The temperature often warms up during the day, so it is best to dress in layers.
The most practical items to pack for your Kenya safari are:
- Clothes in khaki, green, beige and neutral colours
- Long-sleeved shirts that offer protection from the sun and mosquitoes
- T-shirts
- Shorts or a light skirt
- Jeans or safari trousers for evenings and cooler days
- Jackets and sweaters for early morning and late afternoon game drives
- A lightweight waterproof jacket in case of rain
- Swim and beachwear
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent, moisturiser and lip salve
- Binoculars and camera equipment
The luggage allowance on small flights is usually limited to a maximum of 15 kg (33 lbs), which includes hand luggage, so please bear this in mind when packing. Most lodges and camps provide a same-day laundry service for your clothes.
Is it safe to travel in Kenya?
Kenya is one of Africa’s top tourist destinations. It is a perfectly safe country to visit, although the usual safety guidelines apply – don’t leave your luggage unattended and always keep your valuables close by or locked away.
Should I take out travel insurance before I travel to Kenya?
Yes, it is highly recommended that you take out adequate travel insurance at the time of confirming your booking. This should cover any medical situation (such as hospitalisation), as well as cancellation or curtailment of arrangements and loss of your baggage. When you travel with us, you are automatically covered by Flying Doctors. This provides emergency medical services/evacuation to hospital should you suffer either severe illness or an injury whilst travelling with us. As this is for emergency evacuation only, it does not cover the cost of treatment once in hospital and in no way replaces your normal travel insurance, which must be purchased prior to travel.
Do I need a visa to travel in Kenya?
Visas are compulsory for all visitors, including those from countries that were previously exempt, such as the USA, UK, Germany and Belgium. Visas may be applied for at a Kenyan embassy in your home country or upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta or Wilson Airports. However, it is recommended that visitors obtain their visas prior to arrival to avoid the possibility of long queues at the airport. Passports are required by all foreign visitors and must be valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay. Please ensure that there are sufficient blank pages in your passport (a minimum of two is required) for any visas as well as for entry stamps upon arrival.
Are banking services easily available?
National and international banks have branches in Mombasa, Nairobi, Nanyuki and Nyeri, as well as most other major towns. Banks and bureaux de change at international airports are open 24 hours a day.