Kenya – Destination Guide

Kenya is the beating heart of East Africa, where vast savannahs stretch to the horizon, wildlife roams freely, and ancient cultures shape daily life. From dramatic Great Rift Valley landscapes to palm-fringed beaches along the Indian Ocean, Kenya delivers a powerful blend of adventure, beauty, and authenticity.

Whether you are tracking lions at sunrise in the Maasai Mara, drifting past hippos on Lake Naivasha, or unwinding on the coast after a safari, Kenya offers one of the most complete and rewarding travel experiences anywhere in the world.

🏙️ Regions to Explore

🦁 Maasai Mara National Reserve

Kenya’s most famous safari destination and home to the Great Migration.

• Big Five game drives across vast open plains
• Great Migration river crossings July to October
• Hot air balloon safaris at sunrise
• Cultural visits to Maasai communities
• Exceptional predator sightings year-round

🦓 Amboseli National Park

Iconic elephant herds set against Mount Kilimanjaro.

• Close-up elephant encounters
• Snow-capped Kilimanjaro backdrops
• Excellent birdlife and wetlands
• Fewer crowds than the Mara
• Stunning photographic landscapes

🦩 Lake Nakuru National Park

A compact park known for birdlife and rhino conservation.

• Flamingos and pelicans along the soda lake
• Black and white rhino sightings
• Waterfalls and forested viewpoints
• Easy access from Nairobi
• Ideal short safari stop

🌄 Great Rift Valley & Lake Naivasha

Lakes, escarpments, and outdoor adventure.

• Boat safaris among hippos
• Crescent Island walking safaris
• Dramatic volcanic landscapes
• Cycling and hiking opportunities
• Relaxed lakeside lodges

🏝️ Kenyan Coast (Diani Beach, Watamu, Lamu)

Tropical beaches with rich Swahili culture.

• Powder-white beaches and turquoise waters
• Snorkelling and diving coral reefs
• Historic coastal towns and architecture
• Fresh seafood and beach resorts
• Ideal post-safari relaxation

🦒 Wildlife & Safari Experiences

• Big Five safaris including lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo
• Great Migration river crossings and vast migrating herds
• Expert-led game drives in custom 4×4 safari vehicles
• Walking safaris in select conservancies
• Night game drives in private reserves

🏕️ Accommodation Styles

• Luxury safari lodges with panoramic views
• Tented camps offering immersive bush experiences
• Eco-lodges and conservancy stays
• Boutique hotels in Nairobi
• Beachfront resorts along the Indian Ocean

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

Kenya is a year-round destination, but timing can elevate certain experiences.

• June to October – Peak safari season and the best time to witness the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara
• January to February – Excellent wildlife viewing with warm, dry weather and fewer crowds
• March to May – Long rains bring lush scenery and lower prices, though some roads may be challenging
• November to December – Short rains with good birdlife and quieter national parks

For classic safari conditions and iconic wildlife moments, June to October is considered the best overall time to visit.

🍽️ Food & Drink

Kenyan cuisine blends African, Indian, and coastal influences.

• Nyama choma (grilled meat)
• Ugali served with stews and vegetables
• Fresh seafood along the coast
• Swahili curries and coconut-based dishes
• Excellent Kenyan coffee and local tea

💰 Money & Tipping

• Currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES)
• Credit cards accepted at most hotels and safari lodges
• Cash useful in rural areas and for tipping
• Tipping is customary on safari and for guides
• Mobile payments via M-Pesa are widely used

🛂 Visa Requirements

• Most travelers require an eVisa prior to arrival
• Kenya operates a fully online visa system
• Passport must be valid for at least six months
• Proof of onward travel may be requested
• An Electronic travel authorization (eTA) for Kenya has a period of 90 days, provided the holder does not leave East Africa (EAC)
• eTAs can take at least 48 hours to process
• Visitors will be required to present their printed eTA upon entry to Kenya.

Official application portal: https://www.evisa.go.ke

💉 Vaccinations & Health

Health requirements vary by traveler and itinerary.

• Yellow fever vaccination may be required, particularly if arriving from or transiting through a risk country
• Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Tetanus are commonly recommended
• Malaria prevention may be advised depending on regions visited
• Dengue fever may also be present in mosquitoes, making it very important to protect yourself appropriately
• Routine vaccinations should be up to date

Recommended Medications to Bring

• Anti-malarial medication if prescribed
• Insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin
• Antihistamines for allergies or insect bites
• Anti-diarrheal medication and oral rehydration salts
• Pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen
• Motion sickness tablets for small aircraft or boat travel
• Any personal prescription medications in original packaging

Always consult your home country’s relevant safe travel website and/or a medical professional before travel.

🚗 Getting There & Around

International Arrival Airports

• Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) – Kenya’s main international gateway with the widest range of global connections
• Moi International Airport, Mombasa (MBA) – Best for travelers heading directly to the Kenyan Coast
• Kisumu International Airport (KIS) – Regional airport serving western Kenya and Lake Victoria

Most international travelers arrive via NBO, which also serves as the primary hub for safari connections.

Domestic & Safari Flights

Kenya has an excellent network of domestic flights linking Nairobi with major safari regions. Domestic flights significantly reduce travel time and are commonly included in safari itineraries. Common safari access airports and airstrips include:

• Maasai Mara – Multiple regional airstrips
• Amboseli – Amboseli Airstrip
• Samburu – Samburu Airstrip
• Diani Beach – Ukunda Airport (UKA)

Road Transfers

• Private road transfers are widely used for safaris and regional travel
• Custom 4×4 safari vehicles are standard for national parks and conservancies
• Travel times can be longer than distances suggest due to road conditions
• Guided road travel allows for scenic stops and wildlife sightings en route

Rail & City Transport

• The Madaraka Express train connects Nairobi (NBO) with Mombasa (MBA)
• Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Bolt operate in Nairobi and Mombasa
• Hotel-arranged transfers are the safest and most convenient option
• Traffic congestion is common in Nairobi, so allow extra time for airport transfers

Safari itineraries are typically fully escorted, with all transport arranged in advance.

🧳 Packing Essentials

• Neutral-coloured clothing for safari. It is best to avoid dark coloured clothes such as blue and black while on safari, as they can attract the biting tsetse fly.
• Lightweight layers for early mornings
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sun protection and insect repellent
• Binoculars and camera gear

🛡️ Safety & Travel Tips

• Kenya is generally safe for travelers on guided trips
• Follow local advice in cities and towns
• Avoid displaying valuables
• Use reputable transport and guides
• Comprehensive travel insurance is essential

🏳️‍🌈 LGBTQIA+ Travelers

Kenya is culturally conservative, and same-sex relationships are illegal. LGBTQIA+ travelers should exercise discretion, particularly in rural areas. Tourist lodges and safari camps are generally professional and welcoming, but public displays of affection are best avoided.

⚡ Practical Info

• Electricity uses UK-style three-pin plugs
• Internet is widely available in cities and lodges
• Bottled water is recommended (even in city hotels)
• English and Swahili are widely spoken
• Travel insurance is essential

📱 Connectivity (SIM & eSIM)

• Local SIM cards are affordable and reliable
• Safaricom offers the best national coverage
• eSIM options available before arrival
• Strong coverage in cities and safari regions
• Wi-Fi available at most lodges and hotels
• Using an eSIM is our recommended choice while travelling anywhere in the world, and our recommended provider is Holafly. For more information on eSIMs, check out this blog.

✨ Why Visit Kenya

Kenya is the ultimate safari destination. Few places on earth combine extraordinary wildlife, rich cultural traditions, dramatic landscapes, and warm hospitality so seamlessly. From dawn game drives to sunset beach walks, Kenya delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.