Kenya is the quintessential heart of East Africa, a country where the word “safari” was born and where the golden savannas of your imagination become a breathtaking reality. It is a land of epic landscapes, from the iconic, acacia-dotted plains of the Maasai Mara to the snow-capped peak of Mount Kenya straddling the equator and the flamingo-filled waters of the Great Rift Valley lakes. This incredible diversity of ecosystems hosts an unparalleled density of wildlife. A visit here is your chance to witness the “Big Five”—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo—and to be moved by the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Great Migration, one of the planet’s most dramatic natural events.
The soul of Kenya is found in its vibrant and diverse cultural tapestry. The country is home to more than 40 distinct ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions, languages, and art forms. The most famous of these are the Maasai people, noble pastoralists whose striking red shukas and intricate beadwork have become iconic symbols of the African savanna. Engaging with these communities provides a rich and authentic travel experience, offering insights into ancient traditions and a way of life that is deeply connected to the natural world. The warmth, resilience, and welcoming spirit of the Kenyan people are as memorable as any sunset over the Mara.
Beyond the classic safari, Kenya offers a world of adventure. You can soar over the savanna in a hot-air balloon at dawn, trek through the dramatic landscapes of Hell’s Gate National Park, or relax on the pristine, white-sand beaches of the Indian Ocean coastline near Mombasa and Lamu. The country’s capital, Nairobi, is a bustling, modern hub with a unique character, home to a burgeoning arts scene, fantastic restaurants, and the incredible Nairobi National Park, the only place in the world where you can photograph a giraffe against a backdrop of city skyscrapers.
A journey to Kenya is more than just a vacation; it is an awakening of the senses and a deep connection to the wild, untamed heart of our planet. It’s the sound of a lion’s roar echoing across the plains at night, the sight of a herd of elephants moving gracefully through the grasslands, and the feeling of the vast, open sky stretching to an endless horizon. Kenya is a land of profound beauty, rich culture, and boundless adventure that promises not just a trip, but a life-changing experience.
Theme of the Day: The Urban Safari. Our Kenyan adventure kicks off with one of the most unique wildlife experiences in the world, right within the limits of its bustling capital. Today is dedicated to discovering the incredible conservation efforts and the surprising proximity of iconic African animals in Nairobi. We begin with an early morning game drive in Nairobi National Park, the only national park on earth that borders a capital city. Here, we will search for lions, giraffes, rhinos, and zebras, all set against the surreal backdrop of the city skyline.
The journey into Kenya’s celebrated conservation work continues with visits to two world-renowned centers. We will be charmed by the orphaned baby elephants at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust during their public feeding time and get eye-to-eye with the majestic Rothschild’s giraffes at the Giraffe Centre. This day is a perfect and deeply moving introduction to Kenya’s wildlife, showcasing the incredible efforts being made to protect these magnificent creatures. The experience provides an unforgettable start to your trip, highlighting the unique harmony of urban and wild that defines Nairobi.
The best way to experience this day is by hiring a car with a driver/guide for the full day. They can navigate the city, handle park entry fees, and their trained eyes will be invaluable for spotting wildlife in the national park. Start with a game drive in Nairobi National Park as early as possible (the park opens at 6 am) when the animals are most active. It is essential to visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust during its single public viewing hour, from 11 am to 12 pm daily, so you must time your day around this.
After the elephant orphanage, a visit to the adjacent Giraffe Centre is a must. Here you can feed the endangered Rothschild’s giraffes from a raised platform, a delightful and very photogenic experience. Many full-day tours combine these three key attractions, often including lunch at a nearby restaurant. For a truly memorable end to the day, consider booking dinner at the famous Carnivore Restaurant, known for its “beast of a feast” featuring a variety of grilled meats, including exotic game.
Young Travelers: After a day of wildlife, explore the vibrant nightlife in the Westlands district of Nairobi, which has numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Seniors: A private car and guide offer the most comfortable and relaxed way to experience the day’s activities. The walking involved at the Sheldrick Trust and Giraffe Centre is minimal and on flat ground. Ask your guide to get as close as possible to the viewing areas to minimize standing.
Families: This entire day is a dream come true for children. The excitement of the game drive, the adorable baby elephants, and the opportunity to feed a giraffe by hand will create lifelong memories. The whole itinerary is extremely family-friendly and engaging for all ages.
With a Disability: While safari vehicles are not always designed for accessibility, it is possible to arrange for accessible vehicles with advance notice. The viewing areas at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and the Giraffe Centre are wheelchair accessible, with ramps providing access to the main platforms.
Luxury Travel: Stay at the world-famous Giraffe Manor, an exclusive boutique hotel where the resident giraffes are known to poke their heads into the windows during breakfast. This provides an unparalleled and intimate wildlife experience. Arrange a private, chauffeured 4×4 safari vehicle for your game drive and a private tour of the conservation centers.
Adventure & Nature: For a more active experience, you can take a guided cycling tour through Nairobi National Park. This “safari on a bike” offers a completely different and thrilling perspective of the park and its wildlife. Alternatively, after the main activities, you can hike the Oloolua Nature Trail in the nearby Karen suburb, a beautiful indigenous forest with a waterfall and caves.
For an unforgettable luxury experience, the Giraffe Manor is a world-famous boutique hotel where you can feed giraffes from your window, but it requires booking a year or more in advance. A fantastic alternative in the same tranquil Karen suburb is the Hemingways Nairobi, a five-star hotel offering elegant suites with views of the Ngong Hills.
The Tamarind Tree Hotel is an excellent and vibrant mid-range option, conveniently located near Wilson Airport (the hub for safari flights) and right next to the Carnivore Restaurant. For a charming and highly-rated guesthouse experience in the Karen area, the House of Waine offers personalized service in a beautiful setting, making it a perfect base for the day’s wildlife activities.
The public viewing at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is only for one hour, from 11 am to 12 pm, and it can get very crowded. Arrive a little early to secure a good spot along the rope barrier for the best views and photos of the baby elephants. You can also “adopt” an orphaned elephant online before your visit, which may grant you access to a special appointment-only viewing for foster parents in the evening, a much more intimate experience.
For your game drive in Nairobi National Park, it is best to go as early as possible (gates open at 6 am). The animals are most active during the cooler hours of the morning. This also helps you avoid the worst of Nairobi’s infamous traffic. Remember to bring a warm layer, as it can be quite chilly on an early morning game drive in an open-sided vehicle.
For a day on safari, even an urban one, it’s best to dress in comfortable, practical clothing and neutral, earthy colors like khaki, green, and brown. Bright colors can sometimes distract the animals. Wear lightweight trousers or shorts and a long-sleeved shirt to protect you from the sun and insects. The most important item is a warm fleece or jacket for the early morning game drive, as it can be surprisingly cold before the sun comes up.
Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended. A sun hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential for protection against the strong equatorial sun. Also, be sure to bring a good pair of binoculars to get better views of the wildlife in the park. A camera with a good zoom lens will be your best friend for capturing incredible memories.
The Karen suburb, where the Sheldrick Trust and Giraffe Centre are located, has some of Nairobi’s best restaurants. For a beautiful and relaxed lunch in a garden setting, visit the Talisman Restaurant, which is very popular and serves a delicious fusion of European, Pan-Asian, and African flavors. Another great option is the restaurant at the Karen Blixen Coffee Garden, which offers a lovely, historic atmosphere.
For a truly unique and memorable dinner, the Carnivore Restaurant is a classic Nairobi experience. It is an all-you-can-eat “nyama choma” (grilled meat) restaurant where servers bring skewers of various meats—including traditional options like beef, pork, and lamb, as well as exotic game like crocodile and ostrich—directly to your table until you lower a flag to signal surrender. It’s a fun and festive feast perfect for your first night.
The attractions on today’s itinerary are spread out across the southern part of Nairobi, and public transport is not a practical option. The absolute best way to navigate this day is to hire a car and driver/guide for the full day. This is a very common and surprisingly affordable practice in Nairobi. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel, navigate the city’s traffic, guide you through the park, and take you between the different conservation centers efficiently.
You can arrange this service through your hotel or by booking a full-day tour with a reputable local tour operator. This not only removes all the stress of navigation but also provides you with a knowledgeable local expert who can enhance your experience significantly. Ride-sharing services like Uber are available but can be less reliable for a full day of varied stops.
| Item | 1 Pax | 2 Pax | 3 Pax | 4 Pax | 5 Pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (Mid-Range) | $120 | $120 | $200 | $240 | $300 |
| Food (Restaurant Lunch, Carnivore Dinner) | $80 | $160 | $240 | $320 | $400 |
| Activities (Park Fees & Entry to Centers) | $100 | $200 | $300 | $400 | $500 |
| Transportation (Full Day Car & Driver) | $100 | $100 | $120 | $150 | $180 |
| Total Estimated Cost (USD) | $400 | $580 | $860 | $1,110 | $1,380 |
Theme of the Day: The Heartbeat of Kenya. Today we journey beyond the wildlife to discover the rich cultural heartbeat of the nation. The day is an immersion into the diverse traditions, artistry, and agricultural heritage that form the backbone of Kenyan society. We will begin at the Bomas of Kenya, a unique living museum where you can explore traditional homesteads from various Kenyan tribes. The experience is brought to life by a spectacular afternoon performance of traditional music and dance, a vibrant celebration of the country’s diverse cultural fabric.
The artistic exploration continues with a visit to local craft centers, where we can witness the incredible skill of Kenyan artisans and support sustainable, community-based enterprises. The day will also include a journey into the world of one of Kenya’s most famous exports: coffee. A visit to a local coffee farm will provide a fascinating insight into the process, from bean to cup. This day is about connecting with the people and the culture of Kenya, offering a deeper understanding of the nation’s history, creativity, and traditions.
Start your day at the Bomas of Kenya. Spend the morning wandering through the recreated traditional villages (“bomas”) from different ethnic groups across the country. The highlight is the daily cultural performance, which usually takes place in the afternoon (check for current timings). It features a spectacular showcase of over 30 traditional dances and songs in a large, circular theater. It’s a colorful and energetic display of Kenya’s heritage.
In the afternoon, visit the Kazuri Beads Factory, a fantastic social enterprise that employs disadvantaged local women to create beautiful, handmade ceramic beads and pottery. You can take a tour of the workshop to see the entire process and then purchase unique jewelry in their shop. Afterwards, depending on the day of the week, visit one of the pop-up Maasai Markets that move to different locations in the city. This is the best place to buy traditional crafts like wood carvings, beadwork, and textiles. For a different experience, a tour of a local coffee farm in the nearby Kiambu highlands provides a tranquil and aromatic end to the day.
Young Travelers: After the cultural tours, explore the GoDown Arts Centre, a converted warehouse that now serves as a hub for Nairobi’s contemporary arts scene, with visual and performing artists’ studios. In the evening, check out a local bar for “Tusker,” the famous Kenyan beer.
Seniors: A private car and driver is the most comfortable way to visit these spread-out locations. The Bomas of Kenya performance is seated and very enjoyable. The Kazuri Beads tour is a gentle walking tour. A relaxing afternoon learning about coffee at a beautiful farm can be a perfect, low-impact activity.
Families: The energetic dancing and music at Bomas of Kenya are very entertaining for children. At the Kazuri Beads Factory, kids might enjoy the colorful creations. The open spaces of a coffee farm are also a great place for families to enjoy the fresh air outside the city.
With a Disability: The theater at Bomas of Kenya is accessible, and the grounds with the traditional homesteads are mostly flat. The Kazuri Beads Factory tour is wheelchair accessible. It is best to contact coffee farms in advance to inquire about the accessibility of their tours.
Luxury Travel: Arrange a private, curated tour of the cultural sites with an expert guide in anthropology or Kenyan art. Include a private lesson with a local artisan, perhaps in beadwork or pottery. For your coffee experience, book a private tour and tasting session at a boutique, high-altitude coffee estate, followed by a gourmet lunch prepared with farm-to-table ingredients.
Adventure & Nature: Combine culture with adventure by visiting the Nairobi Mamba Village, a crocodile farm that also offers activities like camel and horseback riding. For an authentic cultural immersion, arrange a visit to a real, working Maasai village outside the city, rather than a tourist-focused center, for a more genuine (though less polished) experience of daily life.
For a stay that embodies Kenyan culture and art, the Nairobi Serena Hotel is a five-star property known for its pan-African design and its location overlooking Central Park. The Fairmont The Norfolk is one of Nairobi’s most iconic and historic hotels, offering timeless elegance and beautiful tropical gardens, providing a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city.
A fantastic and unique option is Wildebeest Eco Camp, which offers a range of accommodation from garden tents to deluxe cottages, providing a “safari camp” feel within the city. It’s a great social and budget-friendly choice. For a comfortable and stylish mid-range hotel in a convenient location, the Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Airport is an excellent choice if you have an early flight the next day, featuring a rooftop pool and modern amenities.
Bargaining is expected and is a part of the culture at the Maasai Markets. The initial price quoted will be highly inflated. A good rule is to offer about half the asking price and then negotiate from there. The process should be friendly and respectful. It’s helpful to have smaller bills, and it’s always best to know the approximate value of what you’re buying. Shopping at places like the Kazuri Beads Factory offers a fixed-price, no-hassle alternative where you know your money is supporting a good cause.
The Maasai Markets rotate their location daily. Check the schedule before you go: Tuesday it’s at Westgate Shopping Mall, Wednesday at Capital Centre, Thursday at Junction Mall, Friday at Village Market, Saturday at the High Court parking lot, and Sunday at Yaya Centre. Always confirm the location with your guide or hotel, as schedules can change.
For a day of cultural exploration, comfortable and modest attire is a good choice. Lightweight trousers, a skirt, or capris paired with a comfortable top are ideal. While Nairobi is modern, it is still a good idea to dress a bit more conservatively when visiting cultural centers. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you will be on your feet exploring the markets and Bomas of Kenya.
A sun hat and sunglasses are still important for protection during your outdoor explorations. A light sweater or jacket might be useful for air-conditioned interiors or for the cooler highlands of a coffee plantation. Carry a secure bag for your purchases from the markets.
For an authentic taste of Kenya, you must try “nyama choma” (grilled meat) at a local restaurant. For lunch, consider visiting a restaurant that serves a traditional Kenyan buffet, which is a great way to sample a variety of local dishes like “sukuma wiki” (collard greens), “ugali” (a maize flour staple), and various stews. The Carnivore remains a top choice for a meat feast, but for a more local nyama choma experience, ask your guide for their favorite spot.
Many coffee farms, such as the Kiambethu Tea Farm (which also has coffee), offer a fantastic multi-course lunch as part of their tour, often featuring fresh produce from their gardens. This can be a delightful and scenic dining experience. In the evening, the Westlands neighborhood offers a huge variety of dining options, from excellent Indian restaurants (a legacy of the railway workers) to trendy African fusion cuisine.
Similar to the first day, the attractions are spread across different parts of the city, and hiring a car with a driver/guide remains the most efficient and stress-free way to get around. This is particularly true if you plan to visit a coffee farm, which is typically located outside the main city in areas like Kiambu or Limuru. Your driver will be able to navigate the traffic and roads, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Using ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt is a viable option for individual trips between locations if you prefer more flexibility. However, coordinating multiple trips throughout the day can sometimes be less efficient than having a dedicated driver who waits for you at each stop. This is especially true when visiting places like the Bomas of Kenya, where finding a ride for your onward journey might be more difficult.
| Item | 1 Pax | 2 Pax | 3 Pax | 4 Pax | 5 Pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (Mid-Range) | $120 | $120 | $200 | $240 | $300 |
| Food (Local Restaurants) | $60 | $120 | $180 | $240 | $300 |
| Activities (Bomas, Coffee Tour) | $50 | $100 | $150 | $200 | $250 |
| Transportation (Full Day Car & Driver) | $100 | $100 | $120 | $150 | $180 |
| Total Estimated Cost (USD) | $330 | $440 | $650 | $830 | $1,030 |
Theme of the Day: Echoes of the Past, Flavors of the Present. On our final day, we delve into the colonial history and literary heritage that have shaped modern Kenya. Our journey takes us to the leafy suburb of Karen, named after Karen Blixen, the Danish author of the iconic memoir “Out of Africa.” We will visit her former home, now the Karen Blixen Museum, and step back in time to the era of early European settlement in the Kenyan highlands. This visit provides a fascinating glimpse into the life of this celebrated writer and the colonial history of the country.
After a morning steeped in history, we will explore the bustling heart of Nairobi’s Central Business District, discovering its historical landmarks, from colonial-era buildings to the monuments of independent Kenya. The day culminates in a farewell feast, a final opportunity to savor the unique flavors of the nation. This itinerary provides a perfect conclusion to our trip, balancing a reflection on the country’s complex past with a celebration of its vibrant present, offering a final, lasting impression of this dynamic African city.
Begin your day with a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum. A guided tour of the beautifully preserved farmhouse and its gardens is included with the entry fee and provides wonderful context about Karen Blixen’s life and her time in Kenya. After the museum, you could visit the nearby Marula Studios, a unique art and design space known for its upcycled art made from flip-flops.
In the afternoon, a guided walking tour of Nairobi’s city center is highly recommended. It is not advisable for tourists to wander this area on their own. A local guide can safely lead you to key landmarks such as the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), the Parliament buildings, and the City Market. A visit to the Nairobi National Museum is another fantastic option, offering a comprehensive overview of Kenya’s natural and cultural history all under one roof. For your farewell meal, a return to the festive atmosphere of the Carnivore or another top Nairobi restaurant is a great way to celebrate the end of your trip.
Young Travelers: After the historical tours, explore the ‘iHub’ community, Nairobi’s center for the tech and innovation scene, to see the modern face of Kenya. For your farewell, find a restaurant in the Westlands area with live Kenyan music to celebrate your trip.
Seniors: The Karen Blixen Museum is a gentle and fascinating visit. A driving tour of the city center’s landmarks can be more comfortable than a walking tour. For your final meal, choose a restaurant with a relaxed ambiance and comfortable seating.
Families: The story of “Out of Africa” can be brought to life for older children. A great family-friendly activity nearby is the GP Karting track for some high-speed fun. The Nairobi National Museum has many exhibits, including a snake park, that are very engaging for children.
With a Disability: The ground floor of the Karen Blixen Museum is accessible, though the upper floor is not. The Nairobi National Museum is modern and fully accessible. A driving tour of the city center is the best option for seeing the main landmarks.
Luxury Travel: Arrange a private, chauffeured tour of the day’s sights. Follow your visit to the Karen Blixen Museum with a high tea or gourmet lunch at the nearby Karen Blixen Coffee Garden. For your farewell dinner, book a private dining experience at one of Nairobi’s top fine dining restaurants, such as Talisman, for a sophisticated and memorable conclusion to your trip.
Adventure & Nature: For a final dose of adrenaline, visit The Forest Adventure Centre in the Kereita Forest, about an hour’s drive from Nairobi. Here you can go zip-lining on one of Africa’s longest zip-line courses, go mountain biking, or try archery. It’s a thrilling way to experience Kenya’s beautiful highland forests before you depart.
For a stay that combines luxury with a sense of history, the Fairmont The Norfolk is a legendary hotel that has been a part of Nairobi’s history since 1904, offering a tranquil oasis in the city center. The Villa Rosa Kempinski Nairobi is a premier five-star hotel known for its opulent decor, security, and world-class service, making it a top choice for a luxurious final night.
The Sarova Stanley is another of Nairobi’s historic grand hotels, offering classic elegance and a central location, and it was the site of the city’s first-ever stock exchange. For a great-value, modern, and convenient option, especially for access to the airport, the Crowne Plaza Nairobi Airport offers comfort and an easy departure for your flight home.
When exploring Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), it is highly advisable to do so with a reputable guide. Do not wander around on your own, especially with a camera or expensive phone visible. A local guide will know which streets are safe and will be able to share the rich history of the area. Be aware that it is technically illegal to take photos of government buildings, including the Parliament and the KICC, so always ask your guide before taking a picture.
If you plan to visit the observation deck of the KICC for a panoramic view of the city, you will need to bring a form of identification, such as your passport. The view from the top is fantastic and offers a great perspective on the city you’ve been exploring, including a distant view of Nairobi National Park.
For a day that combines museum visits with a city tour, smart-casual attire is most appropriate. A pair of comfortable trousers or a modest skirt with a nice top or a polo shirt will be perfect. You will be doing a fair amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are, as always, essential. Nairobi’s city center has a professional and business-like atmosphere, so a slightly more put-together look is a good idea.
If your farewell dinner is at a nice restaurant, you may want to change into a slightly dressier outfit in the evening. A smart dress or trousers and a nice blouse for women, and a collared shirt and smart trousers for men would be suitable. This will provide a nice sense of occasion for your final meal in Kenya.
For a historic lunch experience, the restaurant at the Karen Blixen Coffee Garden is an excellent choice, offering delicious food in the beautiful, tranquil setting of the historic farmhouse estate. It’s the perfect place to relax after your museum visit. For a more casual bite, the food court at the Hub Karen mall offers a wide variety of safe and tasty options.
For your farewell dinner, you could revisit the festive atmosphere of the Carnivore, or choose one of Nairobi’s other top restaurants. Talisman in Karen remains a top choice for its fantastic food and magical ambiance. In the Westlands area, Fogo Gaucho is a superb Brazilian churrascaria that offers a similar all-you-can-eat meat experience to Carnivore but with a different style. It’s a great celebratory spot to end your trip on a high note.
A car and driver/guide is once again the most highly recommended mode of transport for today. This allows you to travel safely and efficiently from your hotel to the Karen suburb, then into the Central Business District for your tour, and finally to your farewell dinner. Your driver will know the safest places to park and can wait for you at each location, which is particularly valuable in the busy city center.
If you choose to use ride-sharing services, they are a good option for point-to-point travel, such as from your hotel to the Karen Blixen Museum. However, for a multi-stop itinerary that includes a city center tour, the convenience and security of having a single, dedicated driver for the day is hard to beat and is generally the preferred method for tourists navigating Nairobi.
| Item | 1 Pax | 2 Pax | 3 Pax | 4 Pax | 5 Pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (Mid-Range) | $120 | $120 | $200 | $240 | $300 |
| Food (Restaurant Lunch & Farewell Dinner) | $70 | $140 | $210 | $280 | $350 |
| Activities (Museum Entry, City Tour) | $40 | $80 | $120 | $160 | $200 |
| Transportation (Full Day Car & Driver) | $100 | $100 | $120 | $150 | $180 |
| Total Estimated Cost (USD) | $330 | $440 | $650 | $830 | $1,030 |
| Itemized Details | 1 Pax | 2 Pax | 3 Pax | 4 Pax | 5 Pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (Total for 2 nights) | $240 | $240 | $400 | $480 | $600 |
| Food (Total for 3 days) | $210 | $420 | $630 | $840 | $1,050 |
| Activities (Total for 3 days) | $190 | $380 | $570 | $760 | $950 |
| Transportation (Total for 3 days) | $300 | $300 | $360 | $450 | $540 |
| Grand Total Estimated Cost (USD) | $940 | $1,340 | $1,960 | $2,530 | $3,140 |
Kenya’s stunning natural landscapes offer a powerful setting for wellness and rejuvenation. You can find yoga retreats in serene locations, from the white sandy beaches of the coast near Watamu to the epic savanna landscapes of Laikipia. These retreats often combine daily yoga and meditation with safari game drives, nature walks, and healthy, farm-to-table cuisine. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with nature, witness incredible wildlife, and focus on your well-being in a truly inspiring environment.
Packing for Kenya requires versatility. For safari, pack lightweight clothing in neutral, earthy tones (khaki, green, brown). Include long-sleeved shirts and trousers for sun and insect protection. A warm fleece or jacket is essential for cold early morning game drives. Pack comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes. Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent (with DEET) are non-negotiable. Don’t forget binoculars and a good camera. For Nairobi, you can include slightly smarter, casual outfits. A universal power adapter (Type G, the British-style plug) is needed.
Kenya is a fantastic place to buy unique, handmade crafts. The Maasai Markets in Nairobi are the best places for souvenirs like beaded jewelry, wood carvings, soapstone sculptures, and colorful textiles (“kikois” and “shukas”). The Kazuri Beads Factory in Karen is a great place to buy beautiful, fixed-price ceramic jewelry while supporting a good cause. For high-end galleries and boutiques, explore the shopping centers in the Westlands and Gigiri neighborhoods.
Yes, most foreign visitors require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to enter Kenya, which must be applied for online in advance of your travel. The visa-on-arrival service is no longer available. Always check the official government website for the most current requirements for your nationality.
The currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). While US dollars are sometimes accepted for larger tourist expenses like park fees or hotels, it is best to use Kenyan Shillings for everyday purchases. You can exchange money at the airport or at forex bureaus in the city, or withdraw cash from ATMs.
Kenya is generally safe for tourists, especially when on organized safaris and tours. In Nairobi, it is important to be cautious. Avoid walking alone at night, do not display valuables, and use reputable taxis or ride-sharing apps. It is highly recommended to hire a driver/guide for sightseeing in Nairobi. When on safari, always listen to the safety instructions of your guides.
It is highly recommended to consult your doctor or a travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your trip. Vaccinations for Yellow Fever (and proof of vaccination), Tetanus, and Hepatitis A are commonly recommended. Malaria is present in many parts of Kenya, so you will likely need to take antimalarial medication.
The official languages are Swahili and English. English is widely spoken and is the language of business and education, so you will have no problem communicating in hotels, restaurants, and on safari.
The best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry seasons, from June to October and from December to February. The June to October period coincides with the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara, making it the peak season. The “long rains” occur from March to May, and the “short rains” from November to early December.
The “Big Five” refers to five of the most difficult and dangerous animals to hunt on foot in Africa: the African lion, the leopard, the rhinoceros (both black and white), the elephant, and the Cape buffalo. The term is now used by safari operators for marketing purposes.
Yes, tipping is customary and greatly appreciated, as wages in the service industry can be low. For safari guides, a tip of around $10-15 USD per person, per day is a good guideline. In city restaurants, a tip of 10% is standard for good service. For hotel porters, a tip of $1-2 USD is appropriate.
Kenya uses the Type G plug, which is the same three-pronged, rectangular plug used in the United Kingdom. The standard voltage is 240V. You will need a travel adapter if your devices use a different plug type.
No, it is not recommended to drink the tap water in Kenya. Always drink bottled or filtered water, which is provided by all hotels, lodges, and safari camps. You should also avoid ice in drinks and use bottled water for brushing your teeth.
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