Travel Information

Do I need a VISA to enter Kenya?

Most nationalities must obtain their Kenyan visa online by following this application process for $50 USD. www.evisa.go.ke . We suggest completing the application 4 weeks prior to departure.

Please note that your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your departure from Kenya. You need at least 4 unused blank pages. 

We recommend making copies of all important travel documents. 

Will I be required to fill out an ENTRY FORM? 

You may be asked to fill in an Immigration Form either in the plane before arriving, or upon your arrival. When asked for a local address, please fill in: 

Ker & Downey Safaris

Ndalat Road

P.O. Box 86, Karen,

Nairobi. 00100

What is the local CURRENCY?

The Kenyan Shilling. You can either change money at a Bureau de Change or bank at a major airport. Alternatively you can always make a request with you local guide to visit a bank or ATM. 

US Dollars are widely accepted as tip, or in larger shops and restaurants (often a 5% surcharge). 

What will the WEATHER be like?

Kenya’s weather varies significantly based on the region and the time of year, but you can expect warm days and cool evening and dawn temperatures. Rainfall tends to be sporadic and in short bursts, mostly in the months of April, May and November.

Our first safari location in the Amboseli-Tsavo Ecosystem will be very hot and dry during the day with cooler mornings and evenings. 

Our second location on Borana in Laikipia will be warm to hot during the daylight hours with much cooler evenings. A jacket and pants are suggested in the early-mornings and evenings. 

The Lamu coast will be warm with high humidity.

Do I need any VACCINATIONS?

Note that the Yellow Fever vaccination is no longer a requirement of Kenya , and you will not need this vaccination unless you are planning to additionally travel to a country that does require the vaccination.

Malaria pills are often suggested, though not required. The particular areas we are traveling to, are not areas of risk. It is best to prevent getting bitten by mosquitos during dusk and dawn with liberal amounts of natural repellant. 

Please consult your local clinic or physician before arrival.

Do I need TRAVEL INSURANCE?

Local Medical Evacuation cover is included in your purchased safari trip with us. 

Note that this is not a complete Travel Insurance and only covers medical evacuation in case of a medical emergency and you will be required to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical and repatriation as a suggested minimum. Travel Guard and Alliance Travel Assurance are examples.

Will there be ELECTRICITY AND PLUG-INS?

Electricity in Kenya is 240 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs are UK Standard 3-pin rectangular. We suggest you bring an extra adaptor for charging multiple electronics when generators are running. Some of our vehicles have charging stations built-in. 

Note that these systems are often not able to support hair dryers and straighteners. 

Will I have INTERNET AND CELLPHONE RECEPTION?

All lodges will have free Wi-fi in the communal areas of the lodge. The mobile phone network in Kenya is extensive, but when we are in more remote areas the signal can be weak. 

How does TIPPING work?

Tips are very much welcomed, but there is no obligation. It is considered customary in Kenya to tip 10% of a bill or taxi fare. It is also the custom to tip private guides for excellent service. 

Suggested daily amounts:

US$5/10 - Housekeeping & General Staff

Lodges will have a tipping box for Housekeeping and staff which can be done before leaving a property if you wish. 

US$10 - Private Guides

We suggest this tip is given individually to your guide if you are pleased with their services.

What APPAREL do I need to bring? 

The maximum weigh limit for luggage on our private charters is strictly 15kg (Approx. 30lb) We suggest packing into a soft bag with wheels or a duffel, rather than a rigid suitcase. There will be a laundry service at all safari locations, which can help with the limited weight allowance. 

We do suggest keeping any necessary medications in your hand luggage when traveling. 

Please use our Packing List at your convenience. 

What is the LOCAL LANGUAGE? 

Kiswahili, otherwise known as Swahili is the local language. English is widely spoken in Kenya, particularly at lodges and in main cities.