As of January 2024, all visitors to Kenya are required to fill out an e-visa form before they travel to the country. Applications are usually processed within 3 days, but in some cases it may take longer. We recommend applying for your eTA two weeks prior to travel. Your eTA is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance and you must travel during this period. A single entry visa costs USD $ 32.50 — a multiple-entry visa costs USD $160.

While Kenya is a year-round destination, July to October (the dry season) is a particularly good time to visit due to the wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara. Expect fantastic wildlife-viewing, less mosquitos and cooler, temperate weather. December to February is the high season, which sees warmer temperatures but more crowds. March, April and May are the peak of the wet season, though the landscapes are green, prices are lower and you won’t be fighting with the crowds.

Located right on the equator, Kenya has a tropical climate with high temperatures found throughout the year. As with pretty much any tropical destination, there are wet and dry seasons here. There are two dry seasons here, which run from July to October and from January to March. The former is technically the country’s winter, when temperatures are slightly cooler than the highs of 40°C (104°F) in January and February. The two rainy seasons come in between. The first is the longer rainy season, which runs from April to June. Another shorter rainy season runs between November and mid-December — expect the heaviest rainfall in the former, particularly in May.

In a word, yes, it’s normal to tip for good service in Kenya. While 15% is standard practice for porters, restaurant staff and maids, you should also tip your safari guides at least USD $10 per person, per day.

Kenya has some of the best internet connection in the whole of Africa, and there are plenty of places with Wi-Fi in towns and cities all over the country. Of course, when you’re on safari or in more rural areas, then expect it to be much harder to access.

There are over 2,000 ATMs in Kenya, and most accept Visa more than Mastercard. Expect withdrawal fees of around 400-500 KES for each transaction.

Homosexuality is still illegal in Kenya, and it can be punishable by prison time — though in reality this isn’t likely to be enforced. However, you should be aware of the risks and exercise caution whenever you’re travelling within the country.

The two official languages of Kenya, Swahili and English are widely spoken across the country. There are also many different dialects spoken across the country too, including Kikuyu, Kamba, Sheng and Kikuyu.

No, in a word, the tap water here isn’t safe to drink. We’d recommend only drinking bottled water wherever you are within the country.

The majority of Kenya is safe in which to travel, however, you should avoid the border areas with Somalia. Big cities need caution here too, particularly at night, as petty crime does exist. Take a taxi when it’s dark and also be aware that malaria exists here so bring antimalarials.