Kenya Travel Guide

On the Indian Ocean coast between Somalia to the east and north east
and Tanzania to the south, is the Eastern African country of Kenya. Its
other surrounding countries are Ethiopia and South Sudan to the north
and Uganda to the west. The country encompasses savannah, lakelands,
the dramatic Great Rift Valley, mountain highlands and abundant wildlife.
Kenya might not be all postcard-perfect: but start a conversation with any
local and youll soon find out about the countrys deep economic and
social tensions!
 The best time to visit Kenya
Kenya is one of the major economic hubs in Africa, considered to be the
power hub of East and Central Africa. Kenya has recently re-based its
economy and achieved the middle income level. From the scenic sandy
beaches at the coast, to the Nairobi National Park (the only one in a
capital city in the world.), to the majestic Rift Valley, the bird life in Lake
Naivasha, the hot boiling springs of Lake Baringo, Lake Turkana and Lake
Victoria, Kenya is a very beautiful country with lots of wildlife and scenic
features. In a nutshell, the country is a pearl in Sub Saharan Africa.

Although made up of many diverse ethnic groups and tribes, Kenyans

have a strong sense of national pride. This may be due in part to their
unity in the struggle for Uhuru (Kiswahili: "freedom") independence from
British colonial rule, achieved in 1963. Most Kenyans seem optimistic
about the country's future although continued corruption at all levels of
government creates worry and distrust. Kenyans understandably pursue
the business opportunities offered by tourism with a zeal that may be off
putting to some visitors, but are usually open, talkative and friendly once
business matters have been settled.

Lake Turkana and the area around is also known as the cradle of mankind
as many prehistoric fossils have been discovered. Hominid fossils of
significant scientific interest have been found in Rift Valley areas such as
Olorgesaille, and it is often believed that this area of Africa is where the
human species originated from (although recent discoveries in Ethiopia
contest that theory).

Climate

Kenya experiences a wide range of tropical climates. It is hot and humid at

the coast, temperate inland and very dry in the north and northeast parts
of the country. The country receives a great deal of sunshine all the year
round and summer clothes are worn throughout the year. However, it is
usually cool at night and early in the morning. Also, because Nairobi is at
high altitude, it can be quite cold even during the day between June and
August. The long rain season occurs from April to June. The short rain
season occurs from October to December. Rainfall is sometimes heavy
and often falls in the afternoons and evenings. The hottest period is from
February to March and coldest in July to August.

The annual animal migration - especially migration of the wildebeest -

occurs between June and September with millions of animals taking part.
It has been a popular event for film-makers to capture.

History
Kenya has been inhabited by people since the beginnings of humanity's
existence as a species.

Arab traders began frequenting the coast of Kenya around the 1st
century. Kenya's proximity to the Arabian peninsula invited colonisation,
and Arab and Persian settlements spread along the coast in the 8th
century. Throughout the centuries, Kenya has played host to many
different merchants and explorers (Chinese, Portuguese, et al.).

Kenya declared independence on 12 December 1963. After independence

hero and first president Jomo Kenyatta died in 1978, Daniel arap Moi
became president and stayed in power until 2002. While his regime was
not democratic and he was often elected unopposed, he had by no
means absolute power and he stepped down more or less voluntarily in
2002 to make way for freely contested elections that were won by Mwai
Kibaki, who stayed in office until 2013. The first multiparty elections were
in 1992 and the current constitution (stipulating among other things a
term limit of two five year terms for the president) came in effect that
year. In recent years Kenya has seen political struggles exacerbated by
underlying ethnic factors and the civil war and utter disintegration of its
neighbor Somalia has somewhat spilled over, as the Northern Frontier
District of Kenya is mostly ethnically Somali. However, compared to many
other countries, Kenya has managed to hold several elections, that while
not exactly up to Western standards have often produced results the
majority of the population can live with and while protests of those that
can't have at times turned violent, Kenya has been spared the military
dictatorships and coups d'etat of other African nations. Kenya has even
proven to be a regional power broker and part of the African force that
tries to bring much needed stability to its North Eastern neighbor,
Somalia.

Culture

Notable peoples include the Swahili on the coast, pastoralist communities

in the north, and several different communities in the central and western
regions. The Maasai culture is well known to tourists, despite their being a
minor percentage of the Kenyan population. They are renowned for their
elaborate upper body adornment and jewellery.

People

Kenya has a diverse population that comprises 47 different ethnic

communities with a combination of Bant us (Kikuyu, Swahili, Kamba,
Luhya, Meru, Abagusii) 67% and Nilot es (Maasai, Luo, Samburu, Turkana
and Kalenjin) 30%.

Holidays
New Year's Day (January 1)
Good Friday
East er Monday
Madaraka Day (June 1)
Eid al-Fit r (variable) Islamic religious observances
Mashujaa Day (October 20)
Jamhuri Day (December 12)
Christ mas Day (December 25)
Boxing Day (December 26)
 Getting to Kenya in a nutshell
Visa
Visas are not required for the following nationalities: the Bahamas,
Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brunei, Burundi, Cyprus, Dominica, Egypt,
Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, the Gambia, Grenada, Grenadines, Ghana, Jamaica,
Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Malaysia*, Maldives, Mauritius, Namibia, Nauru,
Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, San Marino, Seychelles, Sierra
Leone, Singapore, South Africa*, Solomon Islands, Saint Kitts and Nevis,
Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Swaziland, Tanzania,
Tonga, Trinidad & Tobago, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
(Countries marked with a '*' are limited to 30 day visa-free stays; longer
visits will require a visa.)

For citizens of other countries/territories, visas may be obtained through a

Kenyan embassy/consulate prior to departure, valid for six months from
the date of issue. The current costs for tourist visas are:
USD20/20/GBP10 (transit), USD50/40/GBP30 (single-entry), and
USD100 (multiple entry). Unlike some countries' visas, the application for a
Kenyan visa is short (1 page) and not very detailed and will be returned in
10 days, except 1216 days during the busy MayAugust season.

Visas can now be obtained online beforehand through the Kenya

Government eVisa portal and can save significant time on entry. Visas are
also available for purchase on entry at international airports and borders
for almost all nationalities. Make sure you're in the correct line at the
airport to avoid an additional wait. No photos are required, just cash for
payment $50 or 30. Nationalities from the following countries are not
eligible for visa on entry, and must apply beforehand: Afghanistan,
Azerbaijan, Armenia, Cameroon, Iraq, Jordan, Kosovo, Lebanon, Mali, North
Korea, Senegal, Somalia, Syria, Palestine, Tajikistan.

If you require a visa to enter Kenya, you may be able to apply for one at a
British embassy, High Commission or consulate in the country where you
legally reside if there is no Kenyan foreign mission. For example, the British
embassies in Almaty, Belgrade, Budapest, Guatemala City, Jakarta,
Prague, Pristina, Rabat, Riga, Sofia, Tallinn, Vienna, Warsaw and Zagreb
accept Kenyan visa applications (this list is not exhaustive). British
diplomatic posts charge GBP50 to process a Kenyan visa application and
an extra GBP70 if the authorities in Kenya require the visa application to
be referred to them. The authorities in Kenya can also decide to charge
an additional fee if they correspond with you directly. Holders of single-
entry visas can actually re-enter Kenya if they have only gone to the
Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda and declare it upon re-entry to Kenya
with proof of passport stamps.
There is now also the East African 90 day visa which is good for
Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and costs $100.

By plane

Kenya Airways (KQ) is the national airline, and one of the largest and
most reputable airlines in Africa. KQ has extensive regional (e.g. to
Johannesburg, Harare, Cairo, Entebbe, Accra, etc.) and international
connections (e.g. to Dubai, London, Amsterdam, Mumbai, etc.). It's also a
SkyTeam associate member.

Kenya has three International airports:

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi. Approximately

twenty minutes from the main business district.
Moi International Airport in Mombasa.
Eldoret International Airport (local flights and cargo only).

Jomo Kenyatta is the primary arrival point for visitors flying into Kenya.
There are excellent flight connections provided by KQ to major tourist
destinations such as Mombasa, Kisumu and Malindi.

Airlines that serve NBO are: Air Arabia, African Express Airways, Air
Mauritius, Lufthansa, British Airways, Brussels Airlines, China southern
airlines, Condor Airlines, Egypt Air, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, Etihad
Airways, Fly Sax, Kenya Airways, KLM Royal Dutch, LAM Mozambique
airlines, Jubba airways, Precision Air Tanzania, Qatar Airways, Saudi
Arabian Airlines, South African Airways, RwandAir, Swiss International
Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Jombo Jet.

An increasing number of airlines are flying to Kenya, and Nairobi's Jomo

Kenyatta International Airport has become a hub for East and Central
Africa. Kenya Airways (among others) also provides direct flights from
Nairobi to several West African countries, e.g.: Lagos in Nigeria, Bamako in
Mali, as well as direct flights to Bangkok and connections to Hong Kong
and China.

By train

Train services link only Kenya's two major cities. There is no passenger
train service linking Kenya with neighbouring countries, though there are
cargo lines and international passenger services are planned for the
future. The SGR - Standard Gauge Railway is being constructed at a cost
close to 0.5 trillion shillings that will connect the country and the region
seamlessly.

By car

The major roads are good but secondary roads may be poor; all
neighbouring countries can be accessed including Ethiopia via the border
town of Moyale, Uganda via Busia or Malaba, and Tanzania via Namanga
or Lungalunga. Turkana, Marsabit, Moyale, Mandera, Garissa, Isiolo and
some parts of Ijara are considered insecure and prone to banditry and
terrorist attacks from Somalia. Before driving to the northern region,
ensure you check whether there are any security advisories or whether
you need to prearrange security escort.

Kenya's large cities and towns are relatively ideal for a drive. The public
transportation system is a bit chaotic with matatus (7 seater vans, 9
seater vans, 26 seater and 33 seater minibuses) providing the most
popular means of public transport. Since public transportation tends to be
inconvenient or infrequent, it is advisable for a visitor to hire a car or use a
taxi.

By bus

Regular bus services operate between:

Nairobi (Kenya) & Arusha (Tanzania); Nairobi (Kenya) & Kampala

(Uganda); Mombasa (Kenya) & Dar es Salaam (Tanzania); Kisumu
(Kenya) & Kampala (Uganda);

By boat

This is limited to Lake Victoria (e.g., Mwanza in Tanzania to Kisumu in

Kenya) and the coastal area (e.g., Mombasa-Zanzibar cruises).
 How to get your body moving in Kenya

By plane
Most international visitors will arrive through Jomo Kenyatta International
Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi (NBO). If you are already in Nairobi and need to
get to the airport, please make sure that you plan at least two hours to
get there as the main road to the airport is subject to heavy traffic jams,
and security checks are tedious.

Kenya Airways (KQ) offers the most scheduled connections from JKIA
and regular daily flights to the following destinations: Mombasa, Malindi,
Lamu and Kisumu. A return flight from Nairobi to Mombasa will cost about
Ksh 11,000. Online booking is available. Check in is 45 minutes before
departure for local flights and two hours for international. Pay attention to
the announcements while in Unit 3 of JKIA as passengers on different
flights are put in the same waiting area. If you are flying from another
destination to Nairobi and using Kenya Airways in the tourist high season
(JulySeptember, DecemberFebruary), note that KQ flights are
frequently delayed and preference is given to international connecting
passengers, platinum frequent-flyer card holders, and first-class
passengers.

A low-cost, no-frills airline Jambojet also flies from JKIA and offers
scheduled connections to Mombasa, Malindi, Lamu, Kisumu, Eldoret,
Ukunda (Diani). Plans to extend the service to the East African region are
underway. A one-way flight to Mombasa from Nairobi will cost from Kshs.
2950 ($34). You get 10kg free hand luggage. Online Visa/Master card
booking is best.

Another airline Airkenya flies from Wilson Airport Nairobi to Mombasa,

Malindi, Lamu, Amboseli National Park, Maasai Mara, Meru, Nanyuki and
Samburu. The lounge features a Dormans cafe. Check in can be done up
to 15 minutes before departure. Wilson Airport was once the busiest
airport in Africa outside South Africa and still remains a major hub for local
flights to the nature reserves in Kenya and to cities in neighboring
countries. Anyone using Airkenya is advised to lock their checked-in bags.
Things have been known to go missing from luggage while in the care of
Airkenya.

Jetlink flies from Nairobi to Mombasa, Eldoret and Kisumu.

Most charter tourists fly directly to either of the coastal airports of

Mombasa or Malindi.

By bus
Kenya has a network of long distance bus lines. Speed is limited to 80
km/h, and the highways can be very bumpy and dusty, so be sure to pick
a comfortable and reputable coach company for the long journeys.
Kenyan buses are limited to running only during daylight hours.

Local buses in town are run by private companies, such as the green and
yellow Citi Hoppa, which provide transportation for an inexpensive fee
(usually around US$0.66). They have regular services in and out of the
Nairobi city suburbs. They usually seat 20-35 passengers (no standing
passengers are allowed by law) and are a cleaner and less hectic mode of
transport than matatus, while still plying many of the same routes.

Guardian Coach

By matatu

Matatus provide a very cheap and quick method of transport in all the
major towns and many rural areas. The name matatu comes from the
Kiswahili word for the number three tatu because some time ago the
standard fare was three, ten-cent coins.

Matatus are privately operated minibuses, typically for 14 or 25

passengers and operating over short and medium distances. Some are
poorly maintained and many are to be found with a fascinating and
colourful dcor which is a major feature of Kenyan urban culture.

Travel by matatu can be extremely risky as the vehicles are often

extremely badly driven, with matatu drivers swerving in and out of traffic
and stopping at a moment's notice by the side of the road for passengers.
Previously, matatus were usually packed to well over capacity up to 25
people in a 14-seater vehicle but in recent years there has been
increased government regulation and policing of matatus, especially in the
larger cities, and now most matatus provide seatbelts and do not exceed
the vehicle's stated capacity. An unfortunate side-effect of better
regulation has been a loss of individuality and character of some of the
vehicles, and drivers and conductors are now obliged to wear set
uniforms. Tourists should be careful to ensure that they are wearing the
seatbelts provided, unless they wish to find themselves taken on an
inconvenient unscheduled trip from a roadside checkpoint to the police
station. All these new regulations are meant to make the roads safer for
passengers and the matatu drivers have on several occasions gone on
strike to oppose these new traffic rules.

Although most matatus ply their trade along set routes, it is often
possible outside of major towns to charter a matatu on the spot as a taxi
to your your desired destination. Make sure you have categorically
confirmed your negotiated price and exact destination before the vehicle
goes anywhere, or you may find yourself in the shadier areas of Nairobi at
night at the mercy of an indignant matatu driver.

The government mandated in January 2013 that a cashless system

would be introduced by 1 July 2014. Surprisingly this may well happen
since the chairman of the Matatu Owners Association stated at the end
of May 2014 that they were losing too much of their turnover to bribing
police traffic officers and theft: "We lose over 30% of the revenue
collected on a daily basis. For a long time, the matatu business has had
no rules, but we hope this will give us a solution."

By train

The Kenya-Uganda railway starts in Mombasa and travels via Nairobi to

Kampala, Uganda. This is the famous "Lunatic Express" and was also
featured in the Val Kilmer & Michael Douglas film "The Ghost and the
Darkness." The train is extremely slow and usually delayed. The speed of
the train is due to the old narrow gauge track installed by the colonial
authorities which hasn't been improved in 50 years of independence.
Current ly t he only t rain rout e is t he Nairobi-Mombasa which
depart s t hree t imes a week.

By rental car

Most worldwide rental agencies have offices in Nairobi, Mombasa and

Kisumu, and these offer reliable cars with a full back-up network. One can
also rent cheaper cars from local distributors who are mostly reliable.
However it is always good to do a background check before sending in a
deposit. When you hire a car, no matter the brand name, always take note
of the various dents, or states of the car as it may prove contentious
especially when a "refundable" deposit was involved.

It is quite convenient to hire a car online and pick it up at the airport once
you arrive. The minimum driving age in Kenya is 18 years and for you to
hire a vehicle, you may be required to be at least 23 years and have a
minimum of 2 years driving experience. Other rules to comply with are:
drive on the left side of the road, talking on a hand-held phone is
prohibited, seat belts are mandatory and drivers must always carry a valid
driver's license. Make sure that the car you are hiring has up-to-date
comprehensive and PSV insurance which are normally displayed on the
top left side of the windscreen. When hiring a car for cross-border travel
you might need to purchase additional insurance and carry the motor
vehicle original log book.

The Nairobi CBD is traffic prone and it is difficult to find parking on working
hours. If you can, avoid going to the CBD on weekdays. However, roads
out of the city are relatively easy to navigate and pleasant. Kenya has a
lovely countryside and most of the roads linking the major towns are in
good condition. Smaller roads however may be dilapidated and you might
need to rent a 4X4 to get you there. A good map is essential, and if you
are self driving to game parks and the like, a GPS would be very useful -
sign posts are rare and you are never quite sure if you are on the correct
road, leading to many wrong turnings and backtracking.

Some car rental companies provide free extras like a mobile phone with a
local number. Other extras that are available at a cost are additional GPS,
child seats, camping equipment, rooftop tent and a driver.

Most car rental companies offer cars of all sizes with Japanese models
being dominant. All reservations can be made in English with some rental
companies providing reservations in French, German, Chinese and
Spanish. International car rental companies such as Europcar, Sixt,
Budget, Avis and Hertz offer car rental in Kenya. Local car rental
companies like Hire N' Drive, Elite Car Rental Kenya, Offroad Car Hire,
Afford Car Hire and Davina Cabs are usually very competitive and
professional.
 Stunning attractions awaits you Kenya

Kenya has some of the world's best game reserves where you can go for
a safari, and see some of the finest African flora and fauna. The parks are
famous for lions, giraffes, elephants and huge herds of zebras,
wildebeests and buffaloes. It's wise to shop around for tour operators
before picking one, to see what's currently on offer, who you vibe with,
and to get a competitive price.

The annual wildebeest migration (from Maasai Mara to the Serengeti) is

an awesome sight and best experienced in a balloon safari. Bookings to
watch the migration are best done months in advance due to the high
demand and limited lodging available in the Mara. Migration is during
August and September.

Kenya also is a great destination for beach holidays, with several located
along the coastal regions and the city of Mombasa. Other coastal towns
worth visiting include Lamu and Malindi.

Kenya is also becoming a golf holiday destination, with an abundance of

beautiful courses around the major urban areas. Green fees range from
US$1540 per round, plus a US$57 caddy fee.

The northern parts of Kenya are home to some spectacular tribes living
very traditional lifestyles - you can start to encounter these remarkable
societies near to and around the main road North into Ethiopia (the A2
which runs through Marsabit and into Moyale at the Ethopian border), as
well as West of this in places such as Wamba, Maralal, Baragoi, Korr, Kargi,
South Horr, etc.

Kenya Volunt ary and Communit y Development Project , Delta

Hotel, 1st Floor University Way, Nairobi (Opposite Central Police
Station), +254 722 760 661. 8. Volunteer in Kenya with a
community based organisation offering volunteers the opportunity
to participate in short or long term development in Kenya. US$527.
 Adventurous things to do in Kenya
Watch a wildlife migration. Go for a game drive in many parks and
reserves found in the country. If you are on a tight schedule take a
game drive in the Nairobi National Park found less than 20 minutes
drive from Nairobi's CBD (Central Business District). Major
attractions: big cats including lions and leopards, buffaloes, a variety
of antelope species, baboons, monkeys among others.

If you prefer to spend some time in the urban social scene, you
might consider attending music and cultural events such as
Blankets and Wine which features various international and local
artists performing live in a picnic-like setting for families and friends
looking to enjoy African talent. The event happens once a month in
Kenya's capital, Nairobi (first Sunday of every month).

Rift Valley Festival, which incorporates a camping experience with a

sample of cultural and musical tastes from around the country and
internationally.

Samosa Festival is an event which is set up to significantly integrate

the Asian and African culture in the country, A significant
percentage of the urban population is of Asian (Indian) ancestry and
has existed since before independence. Their immigration was
brought on by the construction of the railway.

This event features cuisine from both cultures, poetry and literature
(spoken and written), music and games.

Maulid festival,this one week event can only be enjoyed in the

Coastal region specifically in the ageless town of Lamu, which has
the majority of the population of Muslim faith. It is the one event
which everyone from the region looks forward.

The three major cities also have an array of night club that play both
local and international music. Though the experience may be
thrilling, it would be wise to visit in the company of a guide or a
trusted local, as like any other country with a night life, night clubs
also attract untrustworthy party-goers and "clubbers", but this
shouldn't ruin your experience as night clubs are also great places
to meet singles and new friends.
 The official languages of Kenya
English and Swahili are the two official languages. As a diverse country
with over 40 ethnic groups and 60 languages between them, most
Kenyans are multilingual, speaking their native ethnic language along with
Swahili, which is the preferred language for interethnic communication.
Most people, particularly in urban areas, also have a working knowledge of
English, though this will vary depending on their level of education. Efforts
to communicate in Swahili are generally greatly appreciated by Kenyans
and can become increasingly useful in more rural areas where English
speakers are less prevalent.
 Yummy! What to ea in Kenya
Tasty meals to eat

Many different cuisines and types of restaurants are typically available in

Kenyan cities, ranging from fast food to upscale western cuisine. Kenyan
cuisine is varied among its numerous ethnic groups, though staples
include ugali (maize dough), pilau rice, collard greens, chapati (indian
flatbread), and grilled meats (typically chicken, beef, or goat). Fresh
produce is also readily available in roadside stalls with a diversity of fruits
and vegetables depending on the season. Street food is also definitely
worth a try and is usually safe to eat. Typical foods include mandazi
(sweet bread-like doughnut), grilled maize with a side of chilli, and
samosas.

Many restaurants catering to foreigners can be found in downtown

Nairobi and in the areas of Westlands, Hurlingham, Kilimiani, and
Lavington. Among the many cuisines available are Italian, Brazilian,
Chinese, Thai, Japanese, German and French restaurants. Westlands also
has a large concentration of Indian cuisine owing to the large Kenyan
Indian community in the neighborhood.
 Cheers! What to drink to quench your thirst
in Kenya
Kenyan beer is excellent, having won various awards internationally, the
local favourite being Tusker, a brand from the East African Breweries
Company. Imported beers are available but aren't that popular due to the
high retail prices brought on by import duty and local loyalty to their own
manufactured products. In recent years brew pubs, such as the Brew
Bistro and Sierra in Nairobi, have taken upon themselves to indulge
Kenyans in their own productions which has attracted both expatriate
and tourist attention due to their smoothness of their creations.
Imported and local wines and spirits are widely available, and it is
advisable to avoid local brews such as "changaa" and "busaa," which are
illegal, un-hygienically brewed and whose consumption has led to deaths
on many occasions. It may be helpful to remember that "changaa" literally
means "kill me quick" before deciding whether or not to drink a proffered
glass of the beverage.

There is an excellent selection of soft drinks especially from the Coca

Cola stable, but try the Stoney "Tangawizi" ginger ale locally produced.

It is also worth noting, as is the way in many African countries, that when
you return an empty glass bottle of a drink to certain shop keepers, they
will refund you part of the price you paid known as deposit that covers the
cost of lost bottles.
 Where to sleep in Kenya
Nairobi has a wide variety of tourist hot els, from backpackers' camp sites
(Upper Hill camp site off Hospital Road) to five-star establishments such
as the Norfolk Hotel. There are a number of other guesthouses that offer
private rooms both with shared bathrooms and self-contained rooms for
between 1,000/- and 4,000/- per night. As long as you don't mind basic
accommodations, there is no need to spend more than US$100 per night
on a hotel or hostel. In less touristy areas, lodging can be found for as
cheap as US$5 per night. Be wary of bed bugs, though - it may be
advisable to purchase insect spray and bring along your own sheets if you
plan to travel very cheaply. In addition, the international Intercontinental
and Hilton chains are also represented as well as a number of very highly
regarded local chains (Serena and Sarova Hotels). Small boarding and
lodging establishments are ubiquitous in central urban areas for low cost,
although these are rarely safe as they are located in high crime areas.

Homest ays are increasingly gaining popularity. Part of the reason is that
one can experience Kenyan culture in a deeper and more meaningful way.
Most homes charge about $20 per night inclusive of meals. Some may
include laundry on that price.

People staying longer-t erm may rent accommodation; prices range from
estate-agent 'international style' rentals at $150+ pw, to privately
arranged furnished apartments, from $50$100 pw, to 'local' style
accommodation, usually unfurnished, in a price range from Ksh 5-7000 per
month with windows, water, electricity, down to ksh500 per month with no
windows, no electricity, loud neighbours, mosquitoes, and shared access
to a tap. To arrange privately rented accommodation, you'll need to ask
around - cab drivers, shopkeepers, market traders, could all save you the
estate agents' fees.
 Staying safe in Kenya
Although Kenya is generally safe, it has had bouts of jihadist activities as
well as the uncharacteristic post-election violence in January 2008 after a
disputed presidential election result.

Stay alert when walking or driving through Nairobi. You should always be
careful to be aware of your surroundings and, if possible, ensure that you
have a guide with you. Even daylight muggings on crowded streets are
not uncommon. Infrequently, violent and sometimes fatal criminal attacks,
including armed carjackings and home invasions/burglaries can occur at
any time and in any location, particularly in Nairobi. Particularly avoid
walking after dark. Take a taxi if you can afford it, or a bus if you cannot,
but care should be taken as most buses, even modern ones, tend to be
overcrowded and can pose dangers from pickpocketing.

Avoid ostentatious displays of wealth and property, particularly tempting

objects such as cameras, mobile phones, laptops, MP3 players, etc. The
bus from the airport to downtown Nairobi is a notorious target for
pickpockets.

If you are unlucky and get mugged, a good tactic is to wave your arms
and start screaming at the would-be mugger. Confrontations with armed
robbers, however, should be avoided in this instance, remember that
your possessions are far less important than your life. Most criminals in
Nairobi are more interested in a quick grab and dash than they are in a
prolonged encounter. Since robbery is frequently punished by lengthy
prison terms or even death, most muggers can be dissuaded by a good
show of force. Like in any other city, it is perfectly possible to see, and
enjoy, much of Nairobi without incident if you take sensible precautions.

The north of the country has a reputation for lawlessness, becoming

more dangerous the closer you get to the South Sudanese, Ethiopian and
Somali borders. Armed robberies and abductions by shiftas (bandits) on
the roads in these areas are frequent. Avoid travelling to this part of the
country if possible, and take special precautions if travelling by road.
Armed convoys are normal for this part of the country. Visitors to Lake
Turkana (indicated on the map as Lake Rudolf) in the northwest and
Lamu in the northern end of the coast should travel there by air. Lodwar,
Lokichokio ('Loki') and Moyale are towns best avoided by the casual
traveller, unless you have business with the humanitarian organizations
based there.
 Healthy travel tips for Kenya
Protect yourself from mosquitoes, as they carry numerous diseases such
as dengue fever, malaria and yellow fever. Get expert advice on malaria
preventatives. Guard against mosquito bites. Wear long sleeves and long
trousers and apply an effective insect repellent, for example, one
containing DEET. If travelling to other East African countries, having a
yellow fever vaccination is mandatory (besides risking your health if you
don't have it, you might also encounter complications and might have to
bribe your way across the border). It can be administered at an affordable
price at most reliable Nairobi clinics and hospitals but needs 10 days
before it provides protection - so get your vaccination upfront!

Malaria prophylactics, taken as pills during the trip, can be highly effective.
Consult your physician. The prophylactics most commonly used in this
region are doxycycline (an antibiotic) and malarone (a combination of
atovaquone and proguanil, also sold locally as malanil). (Chloroquine is not
as useful because of the high incidence of resistance. Mefloquine, also
known as lariam, mefliam, and mephaquin, is associated with various side
effects, including a high incidence of mood disturbances and a lower risk
of severe neurological disturbance.)

If you get flu-like symptoms, including fever, joint aches and vomiting,
consult a doctor immediately. If no doctor is available, take a treatment
dose of an appropriate anti-malarial and go immediately to a hospital.
While the public hospitals are slightly cheaper, long waits and poor
conditions and care at these facilities may make it worthwhile to go to a
private clinic. Costs will vary, but a typical trip to the hospital for malaria
testing, doctor's consultation, and medication will cost USD12-30
depending on the clinic. As malaria can become serious, a trip to the
hospital is recommended at the first symptoms of malaria.

If you get such symptoms within twelve months of returning home, seek a
doctor's advice very quickly and immediately tell him where you have been
in the last year. Delayed treatment, even by just a few hours, can lead to
permanent brain and liver damage or death.

Do not have unprotected sex as HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted

diseases are a risk. The country's Adult HIV Prevalence rate (15th in the
world) is over 6.1% or 1 in 16 adults. Voluntary Testing and Counselling
(VCT) clinics offer free testing and counselling for HIV/AIDS.

Cholera is another danger. When in affected areas, see a doctor

immediately and drink plenty of water.

All water should be treated, either by boiling or through purifying tablets or

filters. This includes Nairobi as well as rural areas. Typhoid fever is a risk
and, like malaria prophylactics, the vaccination is not 100% effective. It is
advisable to buy bottled water for drinking. It is available countrywide. All
fruits and vegetables should be thoroughly washed. While eating from the
roadside kiosks is part of the cultural experience that one should not miss,
note that such places do not always have the highest sanitary conditions
and stomach illnesses can result.

It is advisable to have travel and accident insurance.

Stay healthy
Protect yourself from mosquitoes, as they carry numerous diseases such
as dengue fever, malaria and yellow fever. Get expert advice on malaria
preventatives. Guard against mosquito bites. Wear long sleeves and long
trousers and apply an effective insect repellent, for example, one
containing DEET. If travelling to other East African countries, having a
yellow fever vaccination is mandatory (besides risking your health if you
don't have it, you might also encounter complications and might have to
bribe your way across the border). It can be administered at an affordable
price at most reliable Nairobi clinics and hospitals but needs 10 days
before it provides protection - so get your vaccination upfront!

Malaria prophylactics, taken as pills during the trip, can be highly effective.
Consult your physician. The prophylactics most commonly used in this
region are doxycycline (an antibiotic) and malarone (a combination of
atovaquone and proguanil, also sold locally as malanil). (Chloroquine is not
as useful because of the high incidence of resistance. Mefloquine, also
known as lariam, mefliam, and mephaquin, is associated with various side
effects, including a high incidence of mood disturbances and a lower risk
of severe neurological disturbance.)

If you get flu-like symptoms, including fever, joint aches and vomiting,
consult a doctor immediately. If no doctor is available, take a treatment
dose of an appropriate anti-malarial and go immediately to a hospital.
While the public hospitals are slightly cheaper, long waits and poor
conditions and care at these facilities may make it worthwhile to go to a
private clinic. Costs will vary, but a typical trip to the hospital for malaria
testing, doctor's consultation, and medication will cost USD12-30
depending on the clinic. As malaria can become serious, a trip to the
hospital is recommended at the first symptoms of malaria.

If you get such symptoms within twelve months of returning home, seek a
doctor's advice very quickly and immediately tell him where you have been
in the last year. Delayed treatment, even by just a few hours, can lead to
permanent brain and liver damage or death.

Do not have unprotected sex as HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted

diseases are a risk. The country's Adult HIV Prevalence rate (15th in the
world) is over 6.1% or 1 in 16 adults. Voluntary Testing and Counselling
(VCT) clinics offer free testing and counselling for HIV/AIDS.

Cholera is another danger. When in affected areas, see a doctor

immediately and drink plenty of water.

All water should be treated, either by boiling or through purifying tablets or

filters. This includes Nairobi as well as rural areas. Typhoid fever is a risk
and, like malaria prophylactics, the vaccination is not 100% effective. It is
advisable to buy bottled water for drinking. It is available countrywide. All
fruits and vegetables should be thoroughly washed. While eating from the
roadside kiosks is part of the cultural experience that one should not miss,
note that such places do not always have the highest sanitary conditions
and stomach illnesses can result.

It is advisable to have travel and accident insurance.

 The lifestyles of Kenya
Although Kenya is predominantly
Christian and somewhat liberal, there are
areas with major Muslim influence, such at
the Coastal regions, where it is
considered indecent to wear short
dresses. This is true in rural Christian
areas as well. The locals, however, are
extremely friendly.
Beachwear is acceptable on the beach
but not while strolling around town. Even
though some hotels allow topless or nude
sunbathing, these are in restricted areas
and not in public areas.
Kissing or heavy petting is frowned upon
in public, even though Kenyan youth
engage in both, liberally in night clubs.
Homosexuality is against the law but is
practised secretly. Any overt displays of
homosexuality (especially male to male
relationships) may, at times, result in open
hostility. Although violent reactions are
quite uncommon, it is best to be discreet
if engaging in any such activities with
travel mates or locals. However, it is
customary to hold a same sex person's
hand while engaged in conversation.
Permission is required in order to take
pictures of people, as a matter of
etiquette.
Ramadan
Ramadan is the 9th and
holiest month in the Islamic
calendar and lasts 2930
days. Muslims fast every day
for its duration and most
restaurants will be closed until
the fast breaks at dusk.
Nothing (including water and
cigarettes) is supposed to
pass through the lips from
dawn to sunset. Non-muslims
are exempt from this, but
should still refrain from eating
or drinking in public as this is
considered very impolite.
Working hours are decreased
as well in the corporate world.
Exact dates of Ramadan
depend on local astronomical
observations and may vary
somewhat from country to
country. Ramadan concludes
with the festival of Eid al-Fitr,
which may last several days,
usually three in most
countries.
6 June 5 July 2016
(1437 AH)
27 May 24 June 2017
(1438 AH)
16 May 14 June 2018
(1439 AH)
6 May 3 June 2019
(1440 AH)
24 April 23 May 2020
(1441 AH)
If you're planning to travel to
Kenya during Ramadan,
consider reading T ravelling
during Ramadan.
 Staying connected in Kenya
Internet
Internet cafs are common throughout Kenya and usually offer decent
link quality. Expect prices around 0.50c/1KSh per minute. Most cyber cafes
now charge 0.50c KES per minute.

Mobile providers

Safaricom, Airt el, Orange Telkom and YU: After purchasing a starter
SIM card you may access the net instantly, if you have an Internet-
capable handset or a modem. However, when using your account balance
to pay for access, the prices are steep. It is much cheaper to purchase a
data bundle, and the more expensive ones offer much better price/limit
ratio. For example in January 2016, a 2GB data bundle costs KES 1000.00
from Orange Telkom while a 3GB from Safaricom costs 1000.00. A SIM
card costs between KES 50-100.

You will be required to provide valid identification as it is required by law

that all SIM cards be registered.

You may purchase the bundles by charging your account with scratch
top-up cards and then dialling *100# or *544# (Safaricom and Airtel),
*124# (Orange Telkom). Be warned that once the data bundle is finished
the Internet access will be done by a fallback method using your current
account balance, which is much more expensive.