Travel tips
A-Z
Kenya is a destination that offers novel, authentic experiences. Here are some tips that will help better navigate the local culture and fully enjoy your time in Kenya.
Attire
Attitudes towards dress in Kenya are relaxed, but visitors (men as well as women) are expected to show respect for local culture by avoiding excessively revealing clothing in public. It is generally recommended for men and women to ensure they are properly covered.
Bargaining
This is widely expected at roadside purchase and other traditional markets.
Currency
The Kenya Shilling is the only currency used in the country and can be obtained through ATMs which are widely available in malls, hotels and around Nairobi. Mpesa is a popular mobile banking widely used in Kenya, Its recommended to buy local safaricom simcard to enable access.
Currency Import regulations
When bringing local currency (Kenya shilling) higher than Ksh. 500,000 must be declared on arrival. All other foreign currencies amounts equal to or higher than USD 10,000 must also be declared at the customs.
Customs regulations
To read about customs regulations in Kenya and other related information, click here
Disabled access
Most places in Nairobi are accessible however incase you need any support to access a place or building, teams will always be available to help. All you need is to ask for support.
Drinking water
The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme (JMP) estimate that access to safely managed drinking water services in urban areas of Kenya stands at approximately 58% to 61%. However, bottled water is widely consumed in Nairobi with plenty of local and imported brands widely available.
Electric supply
The standard voltage is 240 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. Plug points are the same as in the UK. To use electric appliances made for the range of 100 V – 127 V (as is in the US, Canada and most South American countries), one needs a voltage converter or a combined power plug adapter/voltage converter.
Emergency telephone numbers
Police, Fire, Ambulance:
999 , 112, 911(Toll free)
Kenya Red Cross (Ambulance or Disaster):
1199 or 1514
St Johns Ambulance:
0721 – 225285
Gender Based Violence:
1195
Child Helpline Kenya:
116
Embassies & Consulates
Nairobi is home to over 50 foreign embassies and a consulate. These are open for business from Monday to Fridaz and closed on Saturday and Sunday, as well as all public holidays of both Kenya and the embassy’s home country.
Greetings
Kenyans Use all forms of greetings shaking hands, hugs, waving e.t.c. Most greetings are in swahili however Kenyans can switch to english whenever possible.
Healthcare facilities
In case of emergency, visitors can go to any national referral General Hospital network and healthcare centers for care. There is also multiple private hospitals that take international insurance and cash payment.
Internet Connectivity
Kenya is the well connected in terms on internet and mobile services including 5G network. Free WIFI facilities are available at the JKIA International Airport and most public places including shopping malls, restaurants and parks.
Language
Home to around a hundred nationalities, Kenya is a melting pot of cultures with numerous languages being spoken. Being an EAC country, the official language is Swahili, but English is commonly spoken at all public places.
Official holidays
Kenya has multiple holidays celebrated across the year.Find details here.
Public Display of Affection
Public displays of affection (PDA) are not explicitly banned by a specific statute in Kenya, but overt or intimate acts can lead to arrest under broad public indecency and nuisance law
Religion
Kenya is a deeply religious nation, with approximately 85.5% of the population identifying as Christian
Safety
Kenya is generally safe for tourists who stick to established safari circuits and tourist zones, but the country requires a high degree of caution due to crime, terrorism threats, and civil unrest in specific area
Smoking
Smoking is prohibited in all public spaces including museums, sports clubs, shopping malls and restaurants. Violators can be subject to fines .
Stopover
Telecom Service Provider
The Communications Regulatory Authority (CA) regulates the telecommunications, information technology, and postal sectors, as well as access to digital media. Ensuring balancing consumers’ rights and telecom Service Providers’ obligations is a top priority for CA.
Tipping
Most hospitality outlets in Nairobi include a service charge in the bill. However, a tip of 10-15% as a gesture of satisfaction is appreciated. It is advisable to carry cash for tipping.
Time zone
GMT + 3
Traffic
Qatar drives on the right hand side of the road.
Weather
Kenya has a great weather year-round sunshine, rain and cold. Average monthly temperatures range from 28°C in January to 20°C in July, sometimes reaching highs of 37°C+ during the summer months.
