KENYA

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kenya is from June to October when there’s virtually no rain and daytime temperatures are not too hot. However, with a diverse geography and a moderate climate, Kenya is considered a great year-round safari and beach holiday destination. Most Kenya safari destinations are also at their best between January and the end of March; the climate is mild, mostly dry and game viewing is fantastic. A rainy season visit – between mid-March to June and again between November and December – is well worth considering. You’ll avoid the peak-season crowds and take advantage of lower, off-season rates for safari lodges in Kenya. The best time to visit Kenya’s renowned beach destinations is a moot point: Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline is hot and very humid all year round and rainfall can occur at any time.

Temperature in Degrees Celsius

Visa Information

The Ministry of Interior and National Administration, State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services, Directorate of Immigration Services has developed and is operating the Republic of Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Kenya eTA is a semi-automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to Kenya. An eTA offers permission to travel and is authorized by the Government of the Republic of Kenya. The possession of an eTA is not the final authority to enter the Republic of Kenya. Admissibility will be determined at the point of entry.

The eTA application collects biographic information and answers eligibility questions from the traveler. eTA applications for Kenya are usually processed in 3 days, however, it is recommended applications be submitted at least 2 weeks before travel to ensure adequate time for processing. Travelers can submit their applications up to 3 months before travel. It is highly recommended that travelers apply as soon as they have booked their accommodations and transport tickets.

ETA INFORMATION

The Ministry of Interior and National Administration, State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services, Directorate of Immigration Services has developed and is operating the Republic of Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). Kenya eTA is a semi-automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to Kenya. An eTA offers permission to travel and is authorised by the Government of the Republic of Kenya. The possession of an eTA is not the final authority to enter the Republic of Kenya. Admissibility will be determined at the

point of entry.

The eTA application collects biographic information and answers eligibility questions from the traveller. eTA applications for Kenya are usually processed in 3 days, however, it is recommended applications be submitted at least 2 weeks before travel to ensure adequate time for processing. Travellers can submit their applications up to 3 months before travel. It is highly recommended that travellers apply as soon as they have booked their accommodations and transport tickets.

VISA EXEMPTED INDIVIDUALS

1. Holders of valid Kenya Passports or one-way Emergency Certificate issued by Kenya Missions abroad.
2. Holders of Kenya Permanent Residence, valid Work Permits and Passes.
3. Holders of valid United Nations Conventional Travel Documents issued by the Government of Kenya.
4. Members of the Diplomatic Missions and International Organizations
5. Accredited to Kenya (exempt from payment only).
6. Citizens of the East African Partner States; These countries include Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda. (Exempted for Six (6) months)
7. All passengers in transit through Kenya arriving and leaving by the same aircraft or transferring to another aircraft and who do not leave the precincts of Airports in Kenya.
8. All passengers arriving and leaving by the same ship, and who do not leave the ship.
9. Members of crew of any ship, aircraft, train, vehicle or carrier; whose name and particulars are included in the crew manifest of the ship, aircraft, train, vehicle or carrier; and who are proceeding in such ship, aircraft, train, vehicle or carrier to a destination outside Kenya.
10. Owners of private aircraft stopping over for refuelling in Kenya and who do not leave the precincts of the airport.

ETA APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Valid passport
• A recent passport picture OR a selfie picture taken during the application process
• Contact details (home address, telephone, email)
• Travel information and flight itinerary (arrival flight number, date of departure of initial flight in case of connecting flights)
• Proof of booking for the hotel you will be staying at (if staying with friends, a letter of invitation is accepted) Guests travelling with us can request this from their tour consultant.
• Credit/Debit card information for payment, if applicable

Where to Apply

Apply for the ETA on the official website: https://www.etakenya.go.ke/en

Health

MALARIA

Stay protected from malaria during your visit to Kenya by taking essential anti-malarial medication before and after your trip. To further safeguard yourself, use mosquito repellent and wear appropriate clothing to prevent mosquito bites, especially during the evening. Please consult your GP and primary healthcare provider for which anti-malarial medication is suitable for you.

YELLOW FEVER VACCINATION

In compliance with international health regulations, Kenya mandates a valid yellow fever certificate for travellers over 1-year-old arriving from or transiting through yellow fever-infected regions. The requirement includes visitors from various countries such as Angola, Argentina, and Brazil, among others.

It’s important to note that Kenya itself is classified as a yellow fever-endemic country, though certain regions like Mombasa and Nairobi are generally considered low risk. If your travels extend beyond these areas, vaccination is highly recommended to ensure your health and safety.

List of countries with risk for Yellow Fever transmission https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2024/infections-diseases/yellow-fever

OTHER VACCINATIONS

For all vaccinations, please consult a medical professional at least six weeks before your date of departure. The rules change regularly and Designer Safari cannot be held responsible for this information.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL EVACUATION COVER

Designer Safari includes a short-term AMREF Flying Doctors Medical Evacuation Cover subscription for all our clients on Safari in East Africa, this covers the cost of evacuation to nearby Hospitals for treatment, this does not include the cost of Medical treatment, clients should purchase comprehensive Travel Insurance that includes medical treatment.

FOOD AND WATER

Accommodations such as hotels, camps, and lodges typically offer bottled or filtered water for guests’ consumption. It’s advisable to refrain from drinking tap water to prevent any health risks. Additionally, it’s recommended to avoid purchasing food or beverages from street vendors. Under no circumstances should individuals bathe in rivers or lakes.

Luggage Restrictions

Due to limited space in vehicles and aircraft, it’s necessary to pack your luggage in a soft bag weighing a maximum of 15kg (33 lbs), including hand luggage and camera equipment.

Preferred luggage type and size: Soft bags with dimensions not exceeding 35cm (13.7 inches) wide x 40 cm (15.7 inches) high and 70 cm (27.5 inches) long. Hard suitcases are not permitted, and oversized bags cannot be accommodated on your lap. If you require additional luggage space, you may book an extra seat, subject to availability.

DRESS CODE

In larger towns and cities across Kenya, it’s recommended to wear modest clothing. However, in lodges, camps, and coastal beaches, casual attire like shorts, shirts, or beachwear is perfectly acceptable. For safaris, it’s advisable to pack light layers of clothing in neutral colours such as green, khaki, and beige. Additionally, it’s wise to bring a warmer jacket or fleece for cooler mornings and evenings and a hat for sun protection. Avoid wearing dark colours like navy or black, as they can attract tsetse flies. Similarly, bright colours such as yellow, red, and purple are not recommended for safaris.

WHAT TO PACK

• Layers — long and short sleeve shirts and trousers
• Warm fleece or jumper
• Lightweight waterproof jacket
• Comfortable but sturdy shoes
• Flip-flops
• Swimming costume
• Hat or baseball cap
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen — a must
• Toiletries — most camps will provide shampoo, shower gel and soap
• Small torch
• Spare batteries, plug adaptors and charging equipment
• Binoculars and camera equipment
• Books or a fully loaded Kindle/iPad for siesta time
• G Type Plug/ Adaptor
• Power bank for Game Drives

Money & Tipping Policy

MONEY AND PAYMENTS

In Kenya, the official currency is the Kenya Shilling (Ksh), although US dollars are also commonly accepted. It’s important to note that bills printed before 2006 may not be accepted. Currency exchange services are available at banks or Forex Bureaus, and ATMs can be found in major airports and towns. Before using international ATMs, it’s recommended to consult with your bank regarding any associated fees. Most hotels, establishments, and Camps accept major credit cards, although there might be an additional surcharge. It’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops and vendors. Banks are widespread across Kenya and operate from 9 am to 3 pm, Monday through Friday.

TIPPING AND GRATUITY GUIDE

In Africa, tipping service staff is a common practice to show appreciation for good service, although it’s not obligatory. The amount of gratuity given can vary based on the level of service received. Feel free to show your gratitude by tipping staff or guides at the camps and lodges you visit with us. Here’s a suggested tipping guideline:

• $5 per couple per day for transfers (consider increasing if you receive extensive help with luggage)
• $20 per couple per day for general staff at the camp or lodge
• $20 per couple per day for a guide
• $15 per couple per day for a butler

Typically, tipping occurs at the end of your safari. You can either tip individual staff members directly or contribute to the gratuity box, usually located in the main area. Tips from the gratuity box are distributed among all camp staff. For guides, it’s best to hand the tip directly to them.

You can provide tips in the local currency, US dollars, Euros, or Pound Sterling.

Power & Communications

COMMUNICATION AND KEEPING IN TOUCH

In larger towns and major hotels in Kenya, you can access email, internet, and fax services. City hotels typically offer international dialling options. While some lodges and camps may have limited internet access, it’s not guaranteed, and cellular signal is often unavailable. For extended stays in Kenya, we suggest purchasing a local SIM card, which can be topped up with local currency. These cards are available at Safaricom or Airtel shops, and you’ll need to present your passport to register. However, we also encourage you to embrace the bush experience and disconnect from modern communication.

ELECTRICITY

Electricity in Kenya operates at 220/240 volts AC, 50 Hz, with the primary socket type being the British BS-1363 (British Standard). While adaptor plugs are sometimes available in lodges, we recommend bringing at least one with you. It’s important to note that power cuts and voltage fluctuations may occur, even in major cities. During safaris, lodges typically rely on generators or solar panels for power. These may be turned off intermittently to minimize noise and conserve fuel. Due to high power usage, many safari camps prohibit the use of hairdryers. Additionally, some camps and lodges may only offer power sockets for charging in specific areas. Feel free to inquire for further details if needed.