The eTA costs 34.09 USD and is valid for three months.

The Kenyan government requires travelers to apply for their visa online before arrival. Applying in advance is straightforward and offers several important advantages:

• The application process is clear and easy to follow, especially when using the step-by-step guidance provided when booking with Africa Safari Trips.

• You travel knowing your visa has already been arranged and paid for.

• Upon arrival in Kenya, you can proceed directly through immigration without additional visa paperwork or payment.

Visas on arrival are no longer available, applying in advance ensures you are fully prepared and allowed to enter the country.

To apply for a Kenya-visa, you must use the official Kenyan government portal.

We strongly advise against using third-party websites, as these often charge higher fees and may not be reliable. Unfortunately, some travelers have lost money through unofficial platforms, so it’s best to apply directly via the official government site.

Before you start, make sure you have the following ready:

• A valid passport with at least six months validity beyond your return date
• A recent passport-style photo in digital format
• A clear digital copy of your passport’s biodata page
• Your flight details and accommodation information
• A credit or debit card to complete the payment
• If a child is traveling with only one parent, a written consent letter in English from the other parent may be required

Once approved, remember to print your eTA or save a digital copy to present upon arrival.

As entry requirements can change, we always advise checking the latest immigration guidelines before traveling. Guests booking with Africa Safari Trips will receive clear instructions to help them prepare correctly and avoid unnecessary delays.

Guests booking with Africa Safari Trips receive a practical visa guide to help them through the application process, and our travel consultants are always available if you have questions. While we cannot apply for the visa on your behalf, our guidance makes the process simple and secure.

To avoid last-minute issues, we recommend submitting your eTA application at least two to three weeks before departure.

Once submitted, online visa applications are usually processed within a few working days. Be sure to print your approved eVisa or save a digital copy and bring it with you when traveling. Upon arrival in Kenya, your visa will be verified and stamped, after which you can collect your luggage and begin your safari without delay.

No. Kenya does not offer visas on arrival. All travelers must obtain an electronic travel authorisation (eTA) before departure. Entry without an approved eTA is not permitted.

The eTA must be arranged online prior to travel. Make sure you have your approved eTA available—either printed or on your mobile device—when you arrive in Kenya.

A solid travel insurance policy offers reassurance by covering situations such as medical emergencies, trip interruptions, and other unexpected circumstances. This is particularly important when traveling through remote regions, where medical care and support services may be less accessible. With comprehensive insurance in place, you can fully enjoy your safari adventure, knowing you’re well protected should the unexpected arise.

While Africa Safari Trips doesn’t provide travel insurance directly, we’re delighted to recommend Chapka Travel Insurance as your go-to provider for your upcoming trip to Kenya.

With Chapka, you can rest assured that you’re fully covered for every aspect of your journey, from unexpected medical expenses to trip cancellations. Their personnalized service means you only pay for what you truly need, giving you peace of mind to immerse yourself in the wonders of Kenya.

The amount of money you’ll need depends on your travel style and what is already included in your safari. Most safari packages cover accommodations, meals, activities, and transportation, so extra expenses are usually limited to tips, drinks, souvenirs, and optional activities. As a general guideline, bringing USD 200–400 per person in cash is sufficient for tips and small personal expenses. Credit cards are widely accepted at lodges, hotels, and larger shops, while cash is useful for tips and smaller purchases. US dollars are commonly accepted, but make sure bills are clean and issued after 2009.

Kenya is a multilingual country, with Swahili and English being the two official languages. Almost all Kenyans speak both languages, many times mixed with each other (English with Swahili or vice versa) and with tribal languages.

Kenyans are a very welcoming people, who are known for their hospitality. In general, people will easily start up conversations with travellers. Sharing food is an important cultural custom, and people usually invite you for dinner or to share their meal. Street sellers will never miss the opportunity to sell you something, but in general, are not too pushy.

Greetings are also an important custom, with many different varieties and usually a response that differs from the initial greeting. Here are the most basic ones:

• “Habari!” – Response: “Nzuri.”
• “Mambo!” – Response: “Poa!”
• “Jambo!” – Response: “Jambo.”

Kenya is 3 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC +3).

The time difference with other destinations is usually:

• Los Angeles: –11 to –10 hours
• New York: –8 to –7 hours
• London: –3 to –2 hours
• Berlin: –2 to –1 hour
• Hong Kong: +5 hours
• Sydney: +7 to +8 hours

Fun Fact
Traditionally, Kenyans have their own way of telling time in Swahili. The day starts at 6am, after which they start counting up to twelve. That’s why 7am in Swahili is saa mmoja (1 o’clock) and 1pm is saa saba (7 o’clock). 6pm is saa kumi na mbili (12 o’clock) and 7pm again saa mmoja!

For a Kenya safari, it’s best to bring lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors (such as khaki, beige, or olive) to blend in with the landscape and stay comfortable during game drives. Essentials include a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, sturdy walking shoes, and a lightweight rain jacket. Don’t forget your camera and extra batteries/chargers to capture wildlife moments.

Yes, comfortable and practical clothing helps you enjoy game drives to the fullest. Choose layers that can be added or removed as temperatures change throughout the day—cool mornings can become warm afternoons. Neutral-colored clothes help reduce glare and attract less attention from wildlife. Closed-toe shoes are recommended both for walking and getting in and out of safari vehicles.

In addition to clothing, bring personal items such as prescription medications, insect repellent, sunscreen, after-sun lotion, lip balm, and a refillable water bottle. Binoculars are highly recommended for wildlife viewing, and a small daypack is useful for carrying essentials during game drives and short walks.

It’s best to avoid bright or flashy colors and strong perfumes, as these can attract insects and distract from wildlife viewing. High heels or heavy boots are unnecessary; instead, choose comfortable walking shoes. Also, bulky luggage can be difficult to store in safari vehicles, so pack efficiently if possible.

Yes—make sure to carry important travel documents, including your passport, visa, travel insurance details, and copies of flight itineraries. For personal expenses, small amounts of cash (USD) and a credit card are useful for tips, souvenirs, or optional activities. Always keep valuables and documents secure.

The cost of a safari in Kenya depends on several factors, but as a general indication, prices usually start from around USD 350–400 per person per day for a private safari. This typically includes accommodation on a full-board basis, a private safari vehicle with a professional guide, park entrance fees, and bottled water during game drives. More luxurious safaris with high-end lodges, exclusive locations, or fly-in connections can significantly increase the overall cost.

Several elements determine the final price of your safari. The most important factors are the season you travel in, the type of accommodation you choose (mid-range or luxury), the number of travel days, and the parks you visit. National park entrance fees play a major role, especially in popular areas like the Masai Mara. In addition, the level of comfort, privacy (private vs. shared safari), and any added activities will all influence the total cost.

Safari prices in Kenya vary strongly by season. During the high season—generally from mid-June to mid-September and mid-December to mid-January—prices are higher due to increased demand, especially during the Great Migration in the Masai Mara. The low and shoulder seasons offer more attractive rates, while wildlife viewing remains excellent, making these periods a great option for travelers looking for better value.

Most safari packages include accommodation, all meals, park entrance fees, a private safari vehicle with a driver-guide, and drinking water during game drives. However, international flights, visas, travel insurance, tips, drinks, and optional activities—such as hot air balloon safaris, cultural visits, or boat trips—are usually not included and should be budgeted separately.

Yes. One of the advantages of a tailor-made safari is flexibility. The cost can be adjusted by choosing different accommodation categories, traveling outside peak season, shortening or extending your itinerary, or selecting parks with lower entrance fees. By balancing comfort, travel pace, and season, it is possible to design a Kenya safari that matches both your expectations and your budget—without compromising on the overall experience.

Yes. All meals are included during your safari in Kenya. This typically covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, whether you are staying at a lodge, tented camp, or enjoying a packed lunch during a full day of game drives.

Safari meals in Kenya usually consist of a mix of international cuisine and local dishes. Breakfasts are often generous, lunches may be served at the lodge or as picnic lunches in the park, and dinners are usually multi-course meals prepared by professional chefs. Vegetarian options are widely available.

Yes. Most lodges and camps can cater to dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-related requirements. Simply let us know your preferences in advance, and we will make sure they are communicated to the accommodations.

On longer safari days, lunch is often provided as a packed picnic or a bush lunch, allowing you to stay in the park without returning to the lodge. Drinking water is also included during game drives.

Meals are included, but drinks are usually not, unless stated otherwise by the accommodation. Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and specialty coffees are typically charged separately and settled directly at the lodge.

Our guides are experienced local professionals with in-depth knowledge of Kenya’s wildlife, national parks, and cultural heritage. Having grown up or worked extensively in the regions they guide in, they know how to read animal behavior, track wildlife, and share fascinating insights that enrich your safari experience.

All safari guides speak English as standard. Some guides are also fluent in French, German, or Spanish. Requests for a guide speaking a specific language can be made in advance and are subject to availability.

Yes. All guides receive professional training covering wildlife behavior, safe and responsible driving, guest safety, and hospitality standards. Continuous training ensures that they meet high international guiding standards while providing a warm and engaging experience for our guests.

Your safari includes a dedicated driver-guide for your vehicle. If you wish to request a specialist guide, such as a language-specific or expert guide, this can be arranged on request.

Absolutely. Our guides are happy to adjust the pace of the safari, involve children during game drives, or focus on specific interests such as photography, birdwatching, or conservation—just let us know your preferences in advance.

Kenya is perfect for combining classic safaris with iconic experiences and relaxing add-ons. Well-loved extensions in Kenya include:

• Hot-air balloon safaris over the Masai Mara National Reserve
• Walking safaris in private conservancies
• Night game drives, where permitted
• Cultural visits to Masai communities
• Beach extensions along the coast, such as Diani Beach or Watamu
• Mount Kilimanjaro climb (combined trip via Tanzania)

Kenya’s extensions are ideal if you want to mix safari highlights with iconic landscapes or beach relaxation.

Please refer to the activities page for a comprehensive overview.

The most popular time to visit Kenya is during the dry seasons: from June to October and from January to February. These months offer sunny weather, minimal rainfall, and excellent wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources. This period is often considered the best for classic safari experiences and is especially popular with first-time visitors.

That said, the months of March, April, May, and November also have plenty to offer. While there may be more rain, the landscapes are lush and green, birdlife is abundant, and there are generally fewer visitors—making it a great option for travelers who enjoy a quieter safari and better value.

Wildlife viewing in Kenya is excellent throughout the year, but it is generally easiest during the dry months. From June to October and January to February, animals are easier to spot due to thinner vegetation and predictable movement around water sources. These months are ideal for game drives in parks such as the Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo.

The Great Migration can be witnessed in Kenya when the herds move into the Masai Mara, typically between July and October. During this time, you may see dramatic river crossings and vast herds of wildebeest and zebra. As the migration is a natural event, exact timing can vary, but these months offer the highest chances of seeing it in Kenya.

Yes. While the rainy seasons (mainly March–May and November) bring occasional showers, they also transform the landscape into vibrant green scenery. Wildlife is still present, birdwatching is excellent, and there are often fewer tourists.

However, travelling during this time can be more challenging. Heavy rains may affect road conditions, with muddy tracks, flooded areas, or temporary accessibility issues in certain national parks. This can make your journey feel more adventurous and less predictable.

That said, it remains a rewarding time to visit, especially for travellers who value lush landscapes, quieter parks, and more attractive rates at lodges.

There is no bad time to visit Kenya—only different experiences. Whether you’re looking for peak wildlife action, greener landscapes, fewer crowds, or better value, Kenya has something to offer in every season. We’re happy to help you choose the best time based on your interests, travel dates, and expectations.

Kenya has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures tend to be warm year-round, though coastal areas are hotter and more humid, while inland highlands can be more moderate. Daytime temperatures typically range from around 20 °C to 31 °C, depending on region and season.

Kenya’s dry periods offer the most predictable and pleasant weather for safaris. The long dry season runs roughly from June to October, with clear skies and minimal rain. There’s also a shorter dry period from about December to March. These months generally bring sunny days and good visibility across the parks.

There are two main rainy periods: the long rains, which usually occur from March through May, and the short rains around November and December. Rainfall during these months tends to come in mostly short showers rather than continuous downpours, though some regions may experience heavier or more prolonged rain.

Yes — Kenya’s weather varies by landscape and altitude. Coastal areas like Mombasa are warmer and more humid year-round, while highland regions such as around Nairobi or the central plateau can be cooler, especially in the early mornings and evenings. Some interior regions experience more extreme dryness or rainfall patterns based on elevation and local geography.

Packing for Kenya depends on where and when you travel:

• Dry season (Jun–Oct & Dec–Mar): Lightweight clothing, sun protection, and a warm layer for early mornings and evenings on safari.
• Wet seasons (Mar–May, Nov–Dec): A light rain jacket, quick-dry clothing, and waterproof footwear can be helpful.
• In higher altitude areas, evenings and early mornings can be cooler, so a light fleece or jacket is recommended.

A yellow fever vaccination is only required for travel to Kenya if you are arriving from, or have recently travelled through, a country where yellow fever is present. In that case, you must show a valid vaccination certificate upon entry.

Travellers arriving directly from Europe, North America, Australia, or other non-endemic countries generally do not need to present a certificate. However, the vaccination is recommended for most travellers aged 9 months and older, especially if you plan to visit safari areas.

If required, the vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before arrival.

Malaria is present in parts of Kenya, especially in lower-altitude and coastal areas. For this reason, many travellers choose to take preventive malaria medication.

In addition, it’s important to protect yourself against mosquito bites by using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing in the evening, and sleeping under mosquito nets (which are provided in most lodges).

Always consult your doctor for personal advice based on your travel itinerary.

Many people travelling to the African continent have questions about safety. Is Kenya safe to travel to? Our answer is clear: YES! Kenya is definitely a safe country to visit, especially for people going on organised game drives with private guides as you will do with us. There are definitely some places to avoid in big cities like Nairobi or Mombasa, but – as with all big cities – by taking some precautions, you’ll be fine. We advise, for example, to leave the hotel at night with a driver and not to go strolling around alone. Also be aware not to wear big and visible jewelry, and keep an eye on your valuables.

Nairobi is generally safe for visitors, especially in well-known areas, hotels, and business districts. We recommend using trusted transportation, avoiding walking alone after dark, and following the advice of your guide or hotel staff. Most travelers experience Nairobi without any safety issues.

Mombasa is a popular coastal destination and is considered safe in tourist areas, resorts, and beaches. As with any busy city, it’s best to remain alert in crowded places, keep valuables secure, and avoid unfamiliar areas late at night. Staying in reputable accommodations and using arranged transport adds an extra layer of security.

Simple precautions go a long way: keep valuables out of sight, use hotel safes when available, rely on registered taxis or arranged transfers, and follow local guidance. By staying aware and prepared, you can enjoy both Nairobi and Mombasa with confidence and peace of mind.

AMREF Flying Doctors operate a round-the-clock air ambulance service in Kenya. In case of a medical emergency, they can provide immediate medical advice or evacuate you from remote locations—such as the Masai Mara—to a hospital in Nairobi for further treatment.

The service covers emergency medical assistance and evacuation only. It does not include hospital treatment costs, medical bills, or visas if required. Flying Doctors is not a replacement for travel or health insurance, which remains essential during your trip.

Safaris often take place far from major towns and hospitals. With Flying Doctors available 24/7, travelers can explore Kenya’s national parks with added peace of mind, knowing that professional medical evacuation support is available if an emergency occurs.