Kenya - Info & Facts

Suggested length of stay

Kenya is famous for its beautiful scenery, wildlife and history. You could easily lose yourself for 2-3 weeks. Below are our suggested length of stays in the key areas.

Nairobi 1-3 nights, Masai Mara 3-7 nights, Amboseli National Park 3-5 nights, Lake Nakuru 3-5 nights, Samburu National Park 3-5 nights, Laikipia Plateau 3-5 nights.

Modes of transport

Road

Generally, one can travel by road in Kenya, however most safari camps can only be accessed by light aircraft due to the poor conditions of the road.

Air

Kenya has two major international airports; Nairobi Jomo Kenya International Airport and Mombasa Moi International Airport. There are various domestic airports and airfields connecting all major towns and safari destinations, and to other destinations in Africa.

Food

The traditional food of Kenya, is as diverse as it’s tribe’s culture and history. Each tribal area has its own specialities, however most Kenyan dishes consist mainly of staple foods such as corn, maize, potatoes and beans. Kenyan stews are characterised by chunks of meat, potatoes, carrots and other small vegetables boiled down with a few spices to make a flavoursome soupy stew. These delicious stews go great with either ugali, rice or chapatis. Kenya is renowned for their tea and coffee and as such are a favoured beverage across the country.

Drinking water

Hotels, camps and lodges should provide either bottled water or filtered water for drinking. Please do not drink the tap water.

Visas

Australian citizens are required to apply for an eVisa prior to arrival. The eVisa is an electronic authorisation from the Government to enter Kenya. It is the equivalent to a visa, but no stamp or label is placed in the passport.

Money

The currency in Kenya is the Kenya Shilling (Ksh). You can convert money to Shillings at a bank, foreign exchange bureaus or withdraw from an ATM, all found in the larger airports and towns. Please check with your bank for charges and advice when using international ATMs. Major credit cards and USD$ are widely accepted in most hotels and establishments. It is advisable to have some cash for smaller shops and stalls. Banks are available throughout Kenya from 9am – 3pm, Monday to Friday.

Inoculations & health precautions

For up to date information on the latest health and vaccination recommendations, please consult with a qualified health professional at least 6 weeks before your intended departure. Anti-malarial medication is strongly recommended for all visitors to Kenya. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has listed Kenya as endemic for yellow fever and as such the yellow fever vaccine is required to enter Kenya.

Consulate Assistance

Australian High Commission, Nairobi

Riverside Drive (400 metres off Chiromo Road),

Nairobi, Kenya

Phone: +254 20 427 7100

Fax: +254 20 427 7139

Website: kenya.highcommission.gov.au/

Electricity

Voltage: 220-240 Volts

Great Britain | Europe

Some lodges in the more remote areas of Kenya do not have electricity. These lodges generally rely on generator power for lighting and refrigeration. Please be aware that you will not find a plug socket in your room/tent at many of these lodges. If so, charging can usually be accessed in the main reception area.

Getting there

Emirates, Etihad Airways and South African Airways are the main International airlines that depart from Australia.

Non-stop flight time Dubai – Nairobi approximately 5 hours

Non-stop flight time Abu Dhabi – Nairobi approximately 5 hours

Non-stop flight time Johannesburg – Nairobi approximately 4 hours

Frequent flights link Nairobi to the national parks and wildlife areas.

Time

GMT + 3 hours

Tipping Guideline

Guide – USD$10 per person per day / Camp Staff – USD$5 per person per day