What You Need to Know Before Traveling To Kenya

Kenya is an East African country close to the equator and is almost as large as France. The land has different zones: moorland, savannah, semi-desert, rainforest, and wetlands. The habitats have over 25,000 species of animals, plants, and trees and 1,000 species of birds. So, Kenya is a famous destination for an African safari, looking for black rhinos, leopards, lions, “Big Five,” elephants, and Cape buffalo.

Before planning a trip to Kenya, there are some “important things you should know” and some “good things to be aware of.” You wouldn’t want to go there and be embarrassed for violating a law or doing things inappropriately. So, to avoid this, I have compiled a list of crucial information you should have handy before booking a ticket to Kenya.

Important things to know before traveling to Kenya

1. Kenya requires a visa

Apply for a Kenya visa in advance for at least 30 days. The application can be done online and is well-stated. For instance, you require phone numbers, addresses, and websites. You will also be asked to get a travel itinerary, evidence of a return air ticket, and a current color passport photograph. Kenya’s visa remains valid for 3 months from the day you were given it.

Also, check your passport to be sure it’s valid for 6 months after your trip. Kenya requires a passport with at least one clear page.

2. Check the visa requirements for Kenya

Many countries require a visa before traveling to Kenya. Log into the official visa website and take time to finalize your application. Constant checks might prompt extra questions for some travelers, even after submitting and making payment.

You will not receive a confirmation of your visa application or payment, so you must log in to check your status. Immediately, you are given to print a colored copy (or two) of the visa and payment slip, including those for domestic flights, like between Mombasa and Nairobi.

3. Plan For Your Vaccinations And Anti-Malaria Pills

Before your departure, go for some medical checks for recommendations or vaccines. The recommended vaccinations should be based on your age and destination. Three vaccinations are most often specific to Kenya: meningitis, typhoid fever, and yellow fever. You can also take anti-malaria medicine before you leave for Kenya. Make sure you take the complete dose.

4. Currency

Kenya’s currency is the Kenyan shilling. One shilling is the same as 100 Kenyan cents. Banks and bureaus of currency change are much easier to find. Your camp, lodge, or hotel might change currency, but the currency rate might not be suitable.

5. Travel Insurance

Be sure to have insurance before traveling. You can buy a yearly plan, though it’s more cost-effective than different policies for each trip. Try to check for a policy that covers medical requirements and health transportation back home in times of emergency.

Kenya’s medical operating system is unique; every pharmacy has a doctor on staff in Nairobi.

5. Airport Security

Have quality time for airport security when you visit Kenya. This also applies to more of those who stay in the country than immigrants. This is done to avoid terrorist affairs and should be taken very seriously. Be sure to go through the first screening at the central entry point and another screening in the airport building. Plan to arrive a few hours early for your return flight from Kenya.

7. Language

The Kenyan languages are Swahili and English. Some locals speak their traditional languages. Learning the commonest spoken Swahili phrases is also necessary before you travel to Kenya. Below are some helpful ones:

Mzuri = Fine, Good

Asante = Thank you

Hapana = No

Ndio = Yes

Jambo! =  Hello

Hakuna Matata = Don’t worry

Karibu = Welcome

Pole = Sorry

Habari = How are you?

8. Food and Water

Food and water are other important things you should never joke with; tap water should only be used for washing and brushing your teeth. It’s better to use dispensers and bottled water for drinking. This also applies to food; eating at well-known restaurants or fast food is advisable. If you like eating street foods, follow your dietician’s advice.

9. Things to pack

There are important items to pack, whether staying within or going far in Kenya. This will enable you to stay there comfortably. The following are necessary items you should bring while traveling:

1. Local money (Kenyan shillings)

2. Clothing that will keep you cool during the day.

3. A sturdy backpack

4. Comfortable walking shoes

5. A hat and sunscreen

6. Warm clothes for evenings

FAQs

1. What documents do I need to enter Kenya?

The documents include a Passport with at least two blank pages, six months of validity, and a Kenyan e-visa. There should be evidence of yellow fever immunizations, or you might be denied access to Kenya.

3. How long does it take for a Kenya visa to be approved?

Most times, it takes between 24 and 72 hours to process a Kenya eVisa online application. Travelers are expected to get their visas within this time.

4. How much does a Kenya visa cost?

The visa application is ready within nine days and costs USD 130.19. Quick processing is faster; it can be completed within six days.

5. What do foreigners need to do to visit Kenya?

They need a visa before they can enter Kenya. The e-visa printout must be presented at the port of entry. It usually takes two working days to get an e-visa.

6. What are the requirements for a Nigerian to travel to Kenya?

1. Kenya Visa Requirements
2. The passport is valid for at least six months, with at least one blank page for entry stamps.
3. Travel itinerary.
4. Hotel bookings.
5. Invitation letter (for visiting families)
6. A return ticket.
7. One scanned photograph must follow the Kenyan government’s photo guidelines.

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Originally posted 2023-12-18 20:19:05.