A little preparation goes a long way
Know the practical side
of your Kenya trip.
How to arrive, get around, pay and feel a little more at home. Start with the question in front of you; follow official sources for details that change.
Build your readiness checklist →Before you go
- Entry requirements and the eTA
Passport, eTA, exemptions, minors, from official sources.
- Health and vaccinations
Yellow fever rules, malaria, meds, insurance.
- Documents and packing checklists
What to carry, by trip type.
Arrival and money
- Arriving in Kenya (JKIA)
Immigration, SIM, the Expressway, first transport.
- Money and M-Pesa
Shillings, cards, and M-Pesa for foreigners.
- Connectivity, SIM, eSIM and power
Getting online and staying charged.
Getting around
- Transport and driving
SGR, flights, matatus, ride-hailing, self-drive.
Culture and language
- Understanding Kenyan people and culture
Diversity, etiquette, respect, without stereotypes.
- Kiswahili phrasebook
The practical phrases travelers actually use.
- Kenya 101, country basics
Geography, languages, money, when to go.
Safety and help
- Safety, advisories and scams
Evidence-based precautions, current advisories.
- Getting help, emergencies
Who to call and what to do when things go wrong.
Experiences
- Safari basics
Parks vs conservancies, fees, etiquette, ethics.
- Beach and coast
Diani, Watamu, Lamu, the coast, decided.
- Guides by traveler type
Families, solo, women, seniors, accessibility.
Before you leave
- Leaving Kenya, customs and souvenirs
Departure, prohibited exports, ethical buying.
Learn a little Kiswahili
Start with a greeting.
Read the free phrasebook, try ten Safari Cards free, or choose a self-study workbook or live tuition.
See learning options and prices →Keep your practical checks together.
Packing checklist · Travel readiness · Practical answers · Travel help