Kenya Travel Tips & Safari Planning Guide (2026) | SafeRide Safaris
Kenya
Kenya Travel Tips & Essential Travel Guide (2026 Edition)
Plan smarter. Travel safer. Experience Kenya better.
Kenya is East Africa’s most diverse travel destination — from iconic safaris and tropical beaches to vibrant cities and rich cultures. This up-to-date Kenya travel guide covers health, visas, culture, money, climate, transport, and what to wear, while helping you plan a safe, smooth, and unforgettable safari or holiday.
Overview
Kenya offers world-class safaris, warm hospitality, and diverse landscapes, but smart planning is essential. Travelers should understand visa requirements, health precautions, climate seasons, cultural etiquette, and transport options before arrival. From malaria prevention and eVisa rules to packing tips for safaris and coastal travel, this Kenya travel guide provides practical, up-to-date advice for first-time and returning visitors. Whether you’re visiting the Masai Mara, Mount Kenya, or the coast, these tips help you travel confidently and maximize your Kenyan experience.
Kenya Health & Vaccination Advice
- Yellow Fever certificate required if arriving from endemic countries
- Malaria risk exists in most regions (lower above 2,500m)
- Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Polio
- Avoid swimming in fresh lakes/rivers (risk of bilharzia)
- Major hospitals available in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu
Pro tip: Always travel with medical insurance covering emergency evacuation.
Kenya Visa Requirements (Updated)
- Passport validity: minimum 3 months
- Most travelers require a Kenya eVisa
- Visa rules vary by nationality and change frequently
- Apply online in advance to avoid airport delays
🔗 Tip: Airlines may deny boarding without proof of visa.
People, Culture & Language
Kenya is home to 70+ ethnic communities, including:
- Bantu groups (Kikuyu, Luhya, Kamba)
- Nilotic groups (Maasai, Samburu, Luo)
- English & Swahili widely spoken
- Local slang “Sheng” common in cities
- National favorite dish: Nyama Choma
- Popular beer: Tusker
Respect local customs, especially along the coast where modest dress is appreciated.
Communication & Internet Access
- Country code: +254
- Strong GSM coverage in towns & safari areas
- Main networks: Safaricom & Airtel
- Wi-Fi available in hotels and lodges
Accommodation in Kenya
Kenya offers a wide variety of accommodation, from luxury safari lodges and upscale tented camps to affordable budget camps across major destinations;
- Masai Mara National Reserve
- Amboseli National Park
- Lake Nakuru National Park
- Tsavo National Parks
- Mount Kenya
💡 SafeRide Safaris arranges lodges & camps to match your budget.
Money & Payments
- Currency: Kenya Shilling (KES)
- Forex bureaus offer best exchange rates
- Visa & Mastercard widely accepted
- ATMs available in major towns
- Declare amounts over USD 5,000
⚠️ Avoid street money changers.
Climate & Best Time to Visit Kenya
| Coast | Hot & humid (22–33°C) |
| Highlands | Cool & pleasant |
| Northern Kenya | Hot & arid |
| Lake Victoria | Hot with heavy rains |
Rainy seasons
- Long rains: March–May
- Short rains: Oct–Dec
Best safari months: June–October & January–February
International & Local Travel
- International airports: Nairobi, Mombasa, Eldoret
- National carrier: Kenya Airways
- Regional travel hub with flights from Europe, Asia & Middle East
- Domestic flights connect parks & coastal towns
- Car rentals available (driving is on the left)
🚙 We provide chauffeur-driven safari vehicles nationwide.
What to Wear in Kenya
- Light clothing for most regions
- Warm layers for evenings & highlands
- Neutral colors for safari (khaki, beige, brown)
- Conservative dress at the coast
- Proper gear for Mount Kenya climbs
Travel Insurance
Ensure coverage includes:
- Medical emergencies
- Evacuation & repatriation
- Safari & adventure activities
Why Book Your Kenya Trip With SafeRide Safaris?
- ✔ Local safari experts
- ✔ Licensed professional guides
- ✔ Custom itineraries (budget → luxury)
- ✔ Safari vehicles & fly-in options
- ✔ 24/7 guest support
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- info@saferidesafaris.com
- +254722496558
- https://www.saferidesafaris.com
Tour Information
Max Guests
06
Min Age
18
Languages Support
english