USEFUL INFO KENYA
Practical information to organize the trip with details about the best period to go, necessary documents, how to get around and much more.
WHEN TO GO to KENYA
The best time to visit Kenya depends on your preferences. The dry season, from June to October, is ideal for safaris, as animals congregate around water sources. January and February are also good months, with warm, dry weather. The rainy season, from March to May, is less recommended for safaris, but is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet and lower prices. In general, Kenya has a tropical climate, with high temperatures year-round.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED for KENYA
To enter Kenya, you need a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity. Italian citizens must obtain a tourist visa before departure, available online through the eVisa system. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is also mandatory if you are coming from a country at risk. For further information on this we recommend you consult the Farnesina website.
WHAT TO BRING TO KENYA
Kenya is a fantastic country with lots of wonders to discover. To better enjoy your adventure to discover Kenya, here is a reminder of what to pack (indeed, we recommend a backpack if you are about to leave for an On The Road. It is more practical, more convenient when you have to reach the dispersed hotels. in the narrow alleys of the medinas and takes up less space in the car, especially if you are traveling in a group). So don't forget the essential:
Comfortable and resistant shoes
Mosquito repellent and hand sanitizer
Sunscreen and after-sun cream (especially in the summer months)
Credit card just in case (remember to notify the bank that you will make withdrawals and payments abroad)
Photocopy of your passport in case of loss
Kit of basic medicines (Paracetamol, Anti-inflammatory, Intestinal antibiotic and broad spectrum antibiotic, Antidiarrheal, Lactic ferments and Patches)
Dress longer to visit religious sites
Warm clothes for cool evenings
Light clothes to withstand the heat
If you travel with a lot of medicines, remember to enclose your medical prescript
KENYA'S CULTURE
Kenya's culture reflects a rich ethnic diversity, with over 40 tribal groups. Each group has its own unique traditions, dance, music and customs. Family and community are central to Kenyan culture, with values of respect and cooperation. Kenyans enjoy traditional music, such as taarab, and folk dances such as benga. Kenyan cuisine includes dishes such as ugali, nyama choma and sukuma wiki. Spirituality is important, with traditional influences and religions such as Christianity and Islam present. The value of nature and the beauty of the landscape are also an integral part of Kenyan culture.
GAY FRIENDLY KENYA?
In Kenya, sexual orientation is a sensitive topic. Same-sex relationships are illegal, and laws punish homosexual acts with prison sentences. The society tends to be conservative, influenced by cultural and religious traditions. Although there is some tolerance in some urban areas like Nairobi, LGBTQ+ people face discrimination and stigma. Local and international organizations work for LGBTQ+ rights, but visibility and acceptance remain limited. Therefore, gay visitors should be cautious and discreet, especially outside major cities.
LOCAL CURRENCY in KENYA
The official currency of Kenya is the Kenyan shilling (KES). Banknotes come in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 shillings. Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20 and 40 shillings. Credit cards are accepted in major cities and some hotels, but it is advisable to carry cash for rural areas. ATMs are widespread in cities, and exchange rates can be obtained from banks or authorized bureaux de change.
CREDIT CARDS in KENYA
In Kenya, credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) are widely accepted in major cities and at large hotels, restaurants and shops. However, in more rural areas, it is best to have cash, as many small businesses do not accept them. ATMs are available in cities, but there may be fees for international withdrawals. Check with your bank before you travel for additional fees and restrictions on withdrawing cash.
Fees for credit card or debit card withdrawals in Kenya can vary depending on your bank and ATM network. International withdrawal fees are usually high. Check with your bank before you travel for specific fees. Additionally, some credit cards charge foreign transaction fees. It is advisable to withdraw larger amounts to reduce the cost per withdrawal.
LOCAL TIPS in KENYA
In Kenya, tipping is not mandatory, but is appreciated, especially in restaurants, hotels and for tourist services. In restaurants, if service is not included, it is common to leave a 10% tip. Tour guides and drivers can receive 5-10 USD per day. It is important to tip discreetly and appropriately for the situation.
BARGAIN in KENYA
In Kenya, it is common to haggle at local markets, stalls and with street vendors. Prices are often negotiable, especially for souvenirs or handicrafts. When bargaining, it is best to do so in a friendly and respectful tone. Having an idea of the market price can help you get a discount. However, in more formal shops or restaurants, prices are fixed and there is no haggling.
ELECTRICITY AND TIME ZONE in KENYA
In Kenya, the electricity is 240V with a frequency of 50 Hz. The sockets used are type G, so you may need an adapter if you come from a country with different sockets. The time zone of Kenya is EAT (East Africa Time), or UTC + 3, without the use of daylight saving time. Therefore, Kenya has a 2 hour difference with Italy during the winter time and 1 hour during the summer.
GETTING AROUND in KENYA
There are several options for getting around Kenya. Rental cars are available in cities and tourist areas, but driving can be chaotic, so a local driver is recommended. Matatus, shared minibuses, are a cheap form of transport but can be crowded and unsafe. Uber and other ride-hailing services are available in some cities, such as Nairobi. Trains are a good option for longer journeys, such as the Nairobi-Mombasa route, and are relatively efficient. For those visiting nature reserves, safari tours are available in 4x4 vehicles, often with experienced guides. Internal flights also connect major cities and national parks.
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