Plan
your trip with our Kenya travel guide - from safari adventures in the
Masai Mara to relaxing on Diani Beach. Discover essential travel
info, visa details, safety tips, and the best time to visit Kenya for
unforgettable experiences.
Country: Kenya
Continent / Region: Africa / East Africa
Capital City: Nairobi
Government Type: Presidential Republic
Population: Approx. 55 million
Official Language(s): English, Swahili
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: ~18% (higher in cities & tourism)
Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT+3
Driving Side: Left
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type G – 240V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers do not require an adapter
Emergency Numbers: 999 or 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 8–9 hours (direct to Nairobi)
Best Time/Months to Travel: June–October (dry season, peak safari)
Main International Airports:
- Visa Requirements: eVisa required for most travellers
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)
- Visa Duration / Cost: 90 days; approx. USD $32
- Vaccinations Needed: Yellow Fever (may be required), Hepatitis A, Typhoid; malaria precautions recommended
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in Kenya):
Average Daily Costs: £30 / £70 / £180+
Tipping Culture: 5–10% common; guides/porters expect tips
Public Transport Options: Matatus (minibuses), taxis, rideshare apps
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: KES 50–150 (local matatu)
Internet / SIM Availability: Good 4G; Safaricom, Airtel, Telkom
Main Climate Type: Tropical, semi-arid in parts
Average Temperature: 20–30°C (varies by altitude)
Major Cities: Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret
Natural Attractions: Savannahs, mountains, lakes, beaches, national parks
Popular Destinations: Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Diani Beach, Nairobi, Tsavo, Lake Nakuru
Main Religions: Christianity (majority), Islam, traditional beliefs
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Ugali, nyama choma (grilled meat), sukuma wiki, samosas, chapati, coastal Swahili dishes
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Mount Kenya, Maasai Mara, Giraffe Centre, Nairobi National Park, Fort Jesus, Great Rift Valley
Overall Safety Rating: Moderate; vary by area
Common Scams: Taxi scams, unofficial safari operators, card skimming
Health Risks: Malaria, dengue, heat, altitude sickness in mountain regions
Recommended Clinics: Nairobi Hospital, Aga Khan Hospital, Mombasa Hospital
Insurance Recommendation: Essential, including medical & safari activities
Internet Speed: Strong 4G in major areas; patchy in remote parks
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Maasai Mara safari, Amboseli elephants, Nairobi National Park, Diani beaches, Lake Nakuru flamingos
Unique Experiences: Hot-air balloon safaris, Maasai village visits, Great Migration viewing, Samburu cultural tours
Hidden Gems: Lamu Island, Chyulu Hills, Hell’s Gate, Watamu Marine Park, Mount Longonot
Popular Areas to Stay: Nairobi Westlands, Maasai Mara lodges, Diani Beach resorts, Naivasha camps
Average Hotel Prices: £30 / £60 / £150+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Nairobi Westlands, Mombasa beaches, Kilimani
Local Drinks: Tusker beer, dawa cocktail, fresh juices
Entertainment: Live music, beach bars, safari lodge evenings, cultural dances
Car Rental: Available; 4×4 recommended for parks
Domestic Flights: Frequent between safari regions and coast
Trains: Nairobi–Mombasa SGR railway popular
Taxi / Rideshare Costs: Uber, Bolt, and Little Cab available
Best Markets: Maasai Markets (various cities), Old Town Mombasa, Village Market Nairobi
Popular Souvenirs: Beadwork, carvings, coffee, Maasai blankets, soapstone items
Local SIM Card Providers: Safaricom, Airtel, Telkom
Typical Business Hours: 8 a.m.–6 p.m. (Mon–Sat)
Tap Water Safety: Not safe to drink; bottled water essential
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
Kenya hosts the Great Wildebeest Migration, one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife events.