Stay
travel-savvy with our Kenya Do’s and Don’ts guide - covering
cultural etiquette, safety tips, and local advice. Learn how to
explore Kenya respectfully, connect with locals, and enjoy a safe,
authentic travel experience.
• Greet people first. Handshakes are standard; always use your right hand.
• Use respectful titles. Mr. or Mrs., or Bwana and Mama, are appropriate when addressing elders.
• Dress modestly. Especially in rural areas and along the predominantly Muslim coast.
• Ask permission before photographing people. Always check first, particularly in villages.
• Carry small amounts of cash. Useful for tips, markets, and rural purchases.
• Learn basic Swahili. Words like Jambo, Asante, Tafadhali, and Pole pole are appreciated.
• Use licensed guides and KWS-registered operators. Especially in national parks and reserves.
• Negotiate taxi prices in advance. If there’s no meter; ride-hailing apps help.
• Support community lodges and women’s co-operatives. Ideal for ethical, local souvenirs.
• Keep copies of passport and visa. Store originals securely at your accommodation.
• Walk at night in city centres. Use registered taxis or reputable apps instead.
• Display valuables openly. Keep jewellery, phones, and cash discreet.
• Use plastic carrier bags. Kenya has a strict nationwide ban.
• Fly drones without a permit. Regulations are strict and fines are heavy.
• Wander off-trail or exit vehicles on safari. Wildlife can be unpredictable and dangerous.
• Photograph government or military sites. This includes checkpoints, airports, and banks.
• Accept help from unofficial guides. Use only licensed or recommended operators.
• Drink tap water. Choose sealed bottles or filtered water.
• Underestimate travel distances. Road journeys take longer than maps suggest.
• Assume cards are accepted everywhere. Some rural areas are cash-only.
• Use your right hand when giving or receiving items. Using both hands shows extra respect.
• Greetings matter. Exchange pleasantries before asking questions or doing business.
• Public affection is discouraged. Especially in conservative or rural regions.
• Dress modestly near mosques and old towns. This is particularly important in Mombasa and Lamu.
• Haggling is normal. Keep negotiations friendly and respectful.
• Tipping is customary. Around 5–10% in restaurants; tip porters, drivers, and safari staff.
• Remove shoes when asked. Common when entering private homes.
• Sundays and public holidays are family-focused. Plan shopping and services accordingly.
• Respect village protocols. Sacred sites and community rules must be followed.
• Ask about appropriate gifts. Local hosts and guides can advise.
• Apply for visas online in advance. Carry printed or digital confirmation.
• Take malaria precautions. Especially in lowland and coastal areas; use repellent.
• Acclimatise for altitude. Important for Mount Kenya and highland treks.
• Choose Safaricom for best coverage. A passport is required to register a SIM.
• Use ATMs in cities. Notify your bank and carry small notes.
• Use M-PESA mobile money. Widely accepted once you have a local SIM.
• Take the SGR train when possible. A reliable Nairobi–Mombasa option.
• Bring UK Type G plugs. A surge protector is useful for electronics.
• Pack lightweight long sleeves. Good for sun and insects; add warm layers for highlands.
• Check park payment methods. Many national parks are cashless.
• Book early for Maasai Mara peak season. Camps and flights sell out months ahead.
• Choose sunrise and sunset game drives. Best wildlife activity and light.
• Visit Amboseli just after dawn. Clear views of Kilimanjaro are most likely.
• Combine Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate. An easy Nairobi weekend escape.
• Stay in the Chyulu Hills. Ideal for quieter safaris and sweeping scenery.
• Take a Lamu dhow cruise midweek. Calmer outside school holidays.
• Carry a kikoy. Useful as a towel, wrap, scarf, or beach mat.
• Check Nairobi Maasai Market schedules. Locations rotate daily.
• Self-driving requires preparation. Hire a 4×4, avoid night driving, and confirm insurance excess.
• Photographers should bring a beanbag. It stabilises shots on safari vehicles.
• Know emergency numbers. 999 or 112 for general emergencies; 911 is also available.
• Carry ID or a passport copy. Keep originals secured at your accommodation.
• Use hotel safes. Split cash and cards and enable device tracking.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps. Confirm driver and vehicle details.
• Respect the plastic bag ban. Bring reusable bags from home.
• Follow drone and off-road rules. Violations carry serious penalties.
• Never drink and drive. Enforcement is strict; use a driver.
• LGBTQ+ travellers should be discreet. Public affection is not advised.
• Protect yourself from heat and sun. Use sunscreen, hats, and hydrate often.
• Buy comprehensive travel insurance. Include medical evacuation for remote areas.
• Learn key Swahili greetings. Jambo, Asante, and Tafadhali are widely used.
• Use polite phrases. Karibu (welcome) and Asante sana (thank you very much).
• Ask prices and directions respectfully. Bei gani? and Wapi…? are useful.
• Understand “Pole pole.” It signals patience and a relaxed pace.
• Keep your tone calm and friendly. Loud voices can seem aggressive.
• Use titles before first names. This shows respect.
• Exchange items with your right hand. Including business cards.
• Haggle with a smile. Keep it light and walk away politely if needed.
• Follow your guide’s lead in villages. Especially for dress and photography.
• Use WhatsApp for communication. It’s widely used for pickups and coordination.
