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Kenya Travel and Safari Guide
PRE-DEPARTURE INFO
Following widespread post-election violence across Kenya, the country's situation has stabilised somewhat. An agreement was signed between the government and the opposition to end the violence, but the potential remains for further unrest. About 1500 people died and 600,000 displaced during fighting after the December 2007 election. Travellers are advised to exercise caution, and avoid large public gatherings or demonstrations. The Rift Valley, Western, and Nyanza provinces have been relatively calm, but travellers should seek local advice before visiting these areas. The Mount Elgon area should be avoided due to rebel activity and clashes with the military.
Check out Safe Travel for updated government warnings, and the Thorn Tree forum for good advice from travellers.
The areas bordering Sudan, Ethiopia and Somalia are all prone to banditry. While travellers are not usually targeted, adequate security arrangements and awareness of the situation is advised to ensure safe travel in these parts of Kenya.
The Somalian border is currently closed due to the conflict north of the frontier.
Nairobi has a reputation for serious crime that is unfortunately justified. Travellers should heed any local advice in regards to security and use common sense to avoid potentially dangerous situations. Mombasa is regarded as a safer destination, but caution is still advised when venturing out alone or at night.
When to Go
The main tourist season is in January and February, since the hot, dry weather at this time of year is generally considered to be the most pleasant. It's also when Kenya's birdlife flocks to the Rift Valley lakes in great numbers. June to September could be called the 'shoulder season' as the weather is still dry. The rains hit from March to May (and to a lesser extent from October to December). During these months things are much quieter - places tend to have rooms available and prices drop. The rains generally don't affect travellers' ability to get around.
If you're planning to visit Lamu, you might want to time your visit to coincide with the centuries-old Maulid Festival.
Visas Overview
Visas are now required by almost all visitors to Kenya, including Europeans, Australians, New Zealanders, Americans and Canadians, although citizens from a few smaller Commonwealth countries are exempt. Visas are valid for three months from the date of entry and can be obtained upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi for US$50 for a single-entry visa, double for multiple entries. Visas are also easily obtained at land crossings with Ethiopia, Tanzania and Uganda. Tourist visas can be extended for a further three month period, but not seven-day transit visas.
It's also possible to get visas from Kenyan diplomatic missions overseas, but you should apply well in advance, especially if you're doing it by mail.
Electricity
240V 50Hz
Electric Plug Details
British-style plug with two flat blades and one flat grounding blade
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