Kenya travel tips for first-timers: What to know

Kenya is a country of contrasts – from the fast-paced city of Nairobi to the quiet, open spaces of the Maasai Mara. Most trips begin in the capital – a city that mixes modern business with roadside markets, street food stalls, and busy traffic. But it’s outside the city where Kenya really comes into its own.

Head south for the wide plains and wildlife of the Maasai Mara, where early game drives bring sightings of lions, elephants, and migrating wildebeest. Take the train east to Mombasa and explore the Swahili coast – from coral mosques to white-sand beaches in Diani. For something slower, fly north to Lamu – a car-free island where life moves at the pace of a dhow.

If you’re visiting for the first time, these Kenya travel tips cover the essentials – what to pack, how to get around, and how to make the most of your time on the road.

When is the best time to visit Kenya?

Kenya doesn’t run on a simple dry-and-wet calendar. Altitude, coastlines, and shifting rains shape the seasons here, and one region’s sun can be another’s storm. You might need a fleece for your dawn game drive in the Mara, and by lunchtime, you’ll be sweating through your shirt on the savannah. The best time to visit Kenya depends on what you’re after – wildlife, dry roads, or fewer people on the trail. Here’s what to know.

• The dry season (June to October) is peak safari time. Skies are clear, roads are firm, and animals cluster around waterholes – especially in parks like the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo. It’s cooler overall, but mornings can be cold, especially in higher altitudes. July to September brings the Great Migration into the Mara – wildebeest, zebras, and predators close behind. It’s also the busiest period, so book early if you want the best camps.
• Wet season (November to May) comes in two waves: short rains from November to December, and long rains from March to May. The landscape turns green, lodges lower their rates, and birdlife is at its best, especially in wetlands and along the Rift Valley lakes. It’s calving season too, with baby animals drawing plenty of predators. Travel is still doable, but expect muddy roads, more insects, and delays in remote areas. Coastal regions stay hot and humid year-round, with short afternoon showers that pass quickly but leave the air thick.

Is Kenya expensive?

Kenya isn’t cheap, but it’s not overpriced either – it depends on how you travel. Kenya safari lodges and park fees can add up fast, but if you’re flexible, take your time, and avoid peak season, it’s possible to keep costs under control. Kenya delivers high-impact travel – world-class wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and strong local experiences – without needing five-star everything.

Some of the best things to do in Kenya – watching elephants cross the Mara River, walking with Samburu guides, or taking a dhow ride at sunset – don’t always come with a big price tag. But getting to them does. National park entry fees are standardised and can add up, especially if you’re visiting several. Domestic flights save time but aren’t cheap. Hiring a private guide or safari vehicle? Worth it – but not budget.

• On a tight budget ($60-90 per day), you can use public transport, stay in local guesthouses or hostels, and eat at roadside cafés. Skip the big parks and head for community conservancies or lesser-known reserves. Kenya’s mobile money system, M-PESA, makes cashless travel easier, even in remote areas.
• Mid-range ($120-200 per day) gives you access to decent lodges, park fees, a guided safari or two, and smoother transport options. At this level, you can enjoy the country’s highlights without too many compromises.

Ready to splurge? Kenya delivers: luxury tented camps, private guides, charter flights, and sundowners with a view – often shared only with elephants.

Is Kenya safe for travelers?

Yes, Kenya is generally safe for travelers, especially if you stick to well-trodden routes, stay aware of your surroundings, and follow local advice. It’s one of East Africa’s most visited countries for a reason: stable, welcoming, and full of people used to helping visitors navigate the pace of daily life. Violent crime is rare in tourist areas, and solo travel – including solo female travel – is possible with common sense and basic precautions.

Most risks aren’t about wildlife encounters or remote roads – they’re urban. In Nairobi or Mombasa, petty theft, pickpocketing, and scams can be an issue. Avoid walking alone at night, don’t flash valuables, and keep your phone out of sight in crowded areas. In rural areas and on safari, safety concerns shift – think bumpy roads, animals on the move, and the need to listen to your guide.

The good news? Most travel in Kenya is structured – safaris, tours, and domestic flights make things easier. But if you’re going solo or self-guided, be prepared and stay flexible.

To stay safe, keep these Kenya travel tips in mind:

• Don’t walk alone after dark in cities – take a taxi or rideshare instead.
• Be cautious at ATMs – use machines inside banks or malls.
• Listen to your guide in wildlife areas – especially on foot.
• Keep your belongings close on public transport.
• Stay updated on travel advisories – especially in border regions.
• Always lock your room or tent and keep valuables out of sight.

Do you need a visa for Kenya?

For many travelers, yes, but the process is simple and entirely online. Kenya switched to a digital-only system in 2024, so don’t expect to get a visa on arrival. You’ll need to apply in advance – even if you’ve visited before. Here’s what to know before you touch down at Jomo Kenyatta with your safari boots laced.

eVisa or eTA for all nationalities

Almost everyone now needs an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to enter Kenya, regardless of whether your country used to be visa-exempt. Apply online at etakenya.go.ke – ideally at least a week before you travel. You’ll need a passport valid for at least six months beyond your trip, a return or onward ticket, and details of where you’ll be staying. Approval usually takes 2-3 working days.

Staying longer than a month?

Tourist visas are valid for up to 90 days. Extensions are possible, but you’ll need to apply through Kenya’s immigration office once you’re in the country. Don’t wait until your visa runs out – overstaying can lead to fines or denied entry on future trips.

Working or volunteering?

You’ll need the right permit before arrival. Kenya enforces immigration rules strictly, even for unpaid NGO or volunteer roles. If you’re coming for anything other than tourism, get clear on the paperwork in advance – or risk getting turned back at the airport.

How to stay healthy while traveling in Kenya?

Kenya isn’t high-risk for health, but it’s not risk-free either. The sun can flatten you, food can mess with your stomach, and if you’re heading off the beaten path, clinics may be hours away. Tap water isn’t always safe, and you might go from Nairobi traffic one day to a dusty game drive the next. Stay prepared, travel smart, and follow these Kenya travel health tips to avoid getting caught out where it really matters.

Medical care and pharmacies

Nairobi and Mombasa have good private hospitals and well-stocked pharmacies – look for signs marked “pharmacy” or “chemist.” Staff generally speak English and can help with over-the-counter needs like antimalarials, painkillers, or anti-nausea meds. In smaller towns, supplies are more limited, so plan ahead if you’re heading into remote areas or on multi-day safaris.

In the bush, you’re on your own for a while. Ambulance response can be slow, and phone signals are patchy in some parks. Medical evacuation insurance isn’t a nice-to-have – it’s essential if you’re going deep into Kenya national parks or rural regions.

What to bring:

• All prescription meds – and a printed copy of your prescription.
• A compact first-aid kit – antiseptic, gauze, plasters, rehydration salts, pain relief.
• High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm – the equatorial sun is intense.
• Mosquito repellent – especially in coastal or lowland regions.
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes – useful on the road.

Vaccinations and health prep

You won’t need anything extreme, but a few jabs are recommended before flying in. Check with your doctor well in advance.

• Tetanus – smart if you’re hiking, camping, or anywhere with limited access to clinics.
• Hepatitis A – recommended, especially if you’re eating local food in small towns or markets.
• Typhoid – worth considering if you’ll be staying in rural areas or eating at roadside stalls.
• Yellow fever – required if you’re coming from or transiting through a risk country.
• Malaria – a risk in many areas, including the coast, Lake Victoria, and most safari zones. Take antimalarials, use mosquito repellent, and sleep under a net where possible.

Food, water, and stomach safety

Don’t drink tap water unless you’re in a major city and know it’s treated – and even then, bottled or filtered water is safer. Bring a refillable bottle with a built-in filter if you’re going remote, and stay hydrated – dehydration creeps up fast in the heat.

Food in Kenya is generally safe when it’s hot and freshly cooked. Nyama choma (grilled meat), samosas, and ugali are staples – just avoid pre-cut fruit, lukewarm buffets, or anything that’s been sitting out too long. Petrol station snacks? Stick to sealed packages – not the mystery sausage roll sweating under a heat lamp.

Cultural etiquette to know before visiting Kenya

Kenya is welcoming, vibrant, and socially diverse – a mix of ethnic groups, languages, traditions, and faiths. Most locals are used to visitors and open to questions, but understanding a few social cues makes a big difference. You don’t need to speak Swahili or study tribal history, but a little respect and curiosity will earn you better conversations, smoother travel, and fewer awkward moments. These Kenya travel tips will help you get it right.

Dress: modest, tidy, and appropriate

Kenyans tend to dress smartly, even when things are casual. You’ll see people wearing suits in Nairobi heat and pressed shirts in rural towns. Tourists stand out – but how you dress still matters.

• In cities like Nairobi and Kisumu, casual wear is fine, but avoid looking scruffy.
• In rural areas, religious sites, or when visiting homes, cover your shoulders and knees.
• At the coast, beachwear is fine on the sand, but cover up in towns or shops.
• Topless sunbathing is frowned upon, even at tourist beaches.

When in doubt, go for light, breathable clothes that show respect for local norms.

Greetings and social behavior: respectful and polite

Kenyans value greetings – they’re a daily ritual, not just a formality. A handshake (right hand only) and a “Habari” or “How are you?” go a long way. Skipping a greeting in a shop, guesthouse, or market is considered rude.

• Take a moment to exchange pleasantries – especially with elders or authority figures.
• In rural areas, formal titles matter. Use “Mzee” for older men or “Mama” for older women.
• Don’t rush conversations – small talk builds trust.
• Avoid overly familiar gestures like back-patting or hugging strangers.

People may be reserved at first, but open up quickly with courtesy and genuine interest.

Public behavior: calm, courteous, and aware

Kenyans are generally polite in public, and loud, brash behavior isn’t the norm. You’ll notice that people don’t raise their voices, even when disagreeing. Public displays of affection are uncommon, especially in rural or conservative areas.

• Keep your tone calm in public – shouting attracts attention for the wrong reasons.
• Be discreet with romantic gestures, especially outside big cities.
• Always ask before photographing people, especially in markets or rural communities.
• Don’t litter – Kenyans are proud of clean public spaces, especially in national parks.

In some Indigenous or pastoralist communities (like the Maasai or Samburu), customs may differ – ask before entering a homestead or taking photos.

Food customs: shared and informal

Kenyan food is often simple but hearty – think stewed meat, greens, and staples like ugali (cornmeal). Eating is a social activity, and guests are usually encouraged to join.

• Wash your hands before and after meals – sinks or washbasins are often provided.
• If food is shared communally, eat with your right hand – the left is considered unclean.
• If offered food or drink, it’s polite to at least try a little – declining can be seen as rude.
• Don’t expect fast service – meals are unrushed and meant to be enjoyed.

In towns and cities, you’ll find everything from nyama choma (roast meat) joints to Indian and Ethiopian restaurants – just follow the locals.

Religion and local customs

Kenya is religious, mostly Christian and Muslim, with deep traditions tied to both faith and community. Even if you’re not religious, showing respect matters.

• Dress modestly in churches or mosques – long trousers or skirts, covered shoulders.
• Don’t take photos during religious services or in sacred spaces without permission.
• Respect prayer times, especially in Muslim-majority areas like the coast and northeastern Kenya.

Traditional beliefs also hold weight in many communities, especially around sacred trees, gravesites, or initiation rituals. If in doubt, ask.

Tipping and small gestures

Tipping in Kenya isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated – and in many service jobs, expected.

• In restaurants, 10% is standard if service isn’t included.
• For guides, drivers, or porters, $2-5 per day is a good base.
• Tip fuel station attendants (especially if they clean your windscreen or check tire pressure).
• Hotel and lodge staff often rely on pooled tips – check house rules before handing out cash directly.

A simple “Asante” (thank you) goes a long way – or try “Asante sana” for a bit more warmth. Showing effort, even in small ways, earns you big respect across Kenya.

Is Kenya a good destination for families?

Absolutely – if your idea of a family trip includes lions at sunrise, boat rides past hippos, and beach days with coconut ice cream. Kenya with kids is a real adventure: exciting, safe in the right areas, and full of space to explore. It’s not built for playgrounds or prams, but if your crew enjoys wildlife, nature, and culture, Kenya makes a fantastic family trip.

Where to go with kids in Kenya

• Maasai Mara National Reserve – Classic safari territory, and surprisingly family-friendly. Many lodges welcome kids, and shorter game drives are easy to arrange. Some camps even have guides trained to work with children.
• Lake Naivasha – Hippos, boat rides, and bike safaris in nearby Hell’s Gate National Park. It’s a fun and flexible stop, and many lakeside lodges have space to run around.
• Nairobi – A great place to start. Visit the Giraffe Centre, the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, or take a day trip into Nairobi National Park. There’s also a growing number of cafés and restaurants with play areas.
• Diani Beach – Calm, swimmable water, white sand, and lots of family accommodation. Snorkelling, dhow rides, and camel walks on the beach keep kids entertained between swims.
• Mount Kenya region – Lush, green, and cooler than the coast or savannah. Think hiking, horseback rides, and forest walks with colobus monkey sightings.

Getting around Kenya with kids

You’ll want a car and driver for longer trips – distances between parks and towns are big, and public transport isn’t family-friendly. Domestic flights (on airlines like Safarilink or Airkenya) can save time and hassle, especially with little ones.

• Bring car seats – some tour companies provide them, but the quality varies.
• Break up drives with wildlife stops or picnic breaks.
• Expect some bumpy roads, especially near parks – part of the fun, but slow going.
• For shorter city hops or coast trips, rideshare apps like Bolt or Uber work well in Nairobi and Mombasa.

Kenya accommodations for families

Family travel is growing in Kenya, and many Kenya accommodations are adapting. You’ll find:

• Lodges with family tents or chalets – often set away from the main area for privacy and quiet.
• Self-catering cottages or Airbnb-style stays – good for picky eaters or early bedtimes.
• Beach resorts with kids’ clubs and pools – especially along the south coast.
• Camping options – best for older kids, and often available in private conservancies.
• Always check age restrictions – some lodges or game drives have minimum ages due to safety or logistics.

Food, supplies, and staying sane

Kenyan food is simple and hearty – grilled meat (nyama choma), chapati, rice, and vegetables. Many restaurants will adapt dishes for kids, even if there’s no kids’ menu.

• Supermarkets in Nairobi, Mombasa, and larger towns are well-stocked with diapers, formula, and snacks.
• In rural areas and parks, bring what you need – supplies can be limited.
• Bottled water is widely available, and many lodges provide filtered water.
• Bring sunscreen, hats, and refillable water bottles – the sun is strong at any altitude.
• Pack a basic medical kit, mosquito repellent, and any child-specific medication.

What are the best places to visit in Kenya?

Kenya isn’t just game parks and beach resorts – it’s Rift Valley cliffs, camel trains in the desert, neon-pink flamingos, and city streets humming with life. From lion country in the south to sacred mountains in the north, these are the best places to visit in Kenya – and why they stay with you long after the trip.

• Maasai Mara National Reserve – Kenya’s safari crown jewel. Wildebeest migration, prowling big cats, golden savannah. Come for sunrise game drives and sundowners under acacia trees. Stay in a tented camp, or self-drive with a good map and a sharper eye.
• Lamu Island – Car-free, time-warped, and soaked in Swahili culture. Walk narrow lanes past coral-stone houses, sail a dhow at sunset, or sip spiced tea while donkeys trot by. It’s hot, slow, and unforgettable – just get there before cruise ships do. @
• Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate – Think boat rides past yawning hippos, cycling between zebra and giraffes, and geothermal steam rising from cliffs. It’s active, accessible, and a favorite for families or anyone needing a break from big-game intensity.
• Amboseli National Park – Big skies, bigger elephants, and Mt Kilimanjaro looming on the horizon. Dry, dusty, and dramatic – this is where you’ll get that classic ‘elephant against snow-capped peak’ photo (on a clear day).
• Nairobi – Not everyone’s favorite at first glance, but Nairobi grows on you. Giraffe Centre, Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, bustling markets, and craft beer joints – all within a city that moves fast but has pockets of calm. Spend a couple of days getting your bearings.
• Mount Kenya – Africa’s second-highest peak, and a cooler, quieter alternative to Kilimanjaro. Trekking routes range from serious summit climbs to forest hikes with colobus monkeys. Fewer crowds, just as much soul.
• Diani Beach – Often ranked among the best beaches in Kenya, Diani delivers powdery sand, turquoise sea, and a reef just offshore. It’s ideal for kitesurfing, snorkelling, or doing absolutely nothing. There’s a laid-back rhythm here that’s hard to shake, and you won’t want to.
• Samburu National Reserve – Remote, raw, and full of species you won’t find elsewhere: Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, gerenuk. Dry country with serious character, and a place to learn from Indigenous guides who know the land like family.
• Lake Turkana and the North – Kenya’s wild frontier. Volcanic rock, jade-colored water, and wind that never stops blowing. It’s not for first-timers, but if you’ve got the time (and a 4x4), the landscapes feel like another planet. Remote and rewarding.
• Great Rift Valley Lakes – Elementaita, Baringo, Bogoria – are lesser known than Nakuru, but just as worth it. Expect flamingos, hot springs, and birdlife galore. Fewer tour buses, more stillness.
• Tsavo East and West – Kenya’s largest parks, sliced in two by the Nairobi–Mombasa highway. Red elephants, lava flows, and long, empty roads. Rough around the edges but worth the effort – especially if you like your safaris wild and under the radar.
• Kakamega Forest – A rare chunk of equatorial rainforest tucked into western Kenya. Think howler monkeys, butterflies, and birdcalls that seem prehistoric. A change of pace from the savannah – and a reminder of just how varied Kenya really is.

How long to spend in Kenya?

Kenya might look compact on the map – a few big-name parks, a stretch of coast – but don’t underestimate the time you’ll need. Roads aren’t always fast, the landscapes ask for detours, and safaris aren’t about rushing from one sighting to the next. You can see a lot in a week, but the magic happens when you slow down. Kenya rewards those who take the long route.

Ask yourself:

• Are you focusing on safari, coast, culture, or trying to combine them?
• Are you flying between regions or going overland?
• Do you want to explore just one part well, or try for the classic “bush and beach” combo?

Rough timing breakdown

• 1 week in Kenya – Stick to one region. Base yourself in Nairobi and explore nearby: Nairobi National Park, Lake Naivasha, and a short trip to the Maasai Mara or Amboseli. Alternatively, go straight to the coast and explore the best beaches in Kenya – Diani, Lamu, or Watamu – with time to unwind and snorkel. You’ll cover less ground, but enjoy it more.
• 10 days in Kenya – Enough for a classic mix: safari and coast. Start with 3–4 days in the Maasai Mara or Samburu, then fly or take the train to Mombasa for beach time. You’ll get wildlife, landscapes, and downtime without feeling rushed.
• 2 to 3 weeks – Now you’re in the sweet spot. Combine the central highlands (Mount Kenya or Laikipia), the Maasai Mara, and one or two coastal stops. Add Lake Naivasha or the Great Rift Valley for boat rides, cycling, and flamingos. With extra time, you can explore Lamu or take it slower on game drives and day hikes. You’ll see how varied Kenya really is.
• 1 month+ – If you’ve got four weeks, you can get into the rhythm of Kenyan travel. Visit both major and lesser-known parks: Tsavo, Meru, and the Aberdares. Wander Nairobi’s markets, hike in the Loita Hills, or spend time in a community conservancy. Head north to Lake Turkana for something wild and remote, or drift along the coast from Kilifi to Lamu by dhow.

What’s the best way to plan a Kenya itinerary?

Planning a trip to Kenya isn’t just about where to go – it’s about how you move between landscapes, how much time you give each place, and how well your trip fits your style. A great Kenya safari isn’t about ticking off animals – it’s about pacing, patience, and letting the wild come to you. The best Kenya itinerary balances early morning game drives, warm afternoons by the water, and slow travel through places worth lingering in. Less is more here, especially when every region has its rhythm.

Start with how long you’ve got

Kenya isn’t huge, but it’s not quick either. Travel takes time – whether by road or air – and rushing from park to park means missing what makes them special.

• Under a week – Focus on one region. A Nairobi-based safari (Nairobi National Park, Lake Naivasha, and maybe a quick hop to the Maasai Mara) works well. Or fly straight to the coast and explore the best beaches in Kenya – Diani, Watamu, or Lamu – with no rush and full beach mode.
• 7-10 days – Enough for a bush-and-beach combo. Start in the Maasai Mara or Amboseli, then catch a flight or train to the coast.
• 2 weeks – The sweet spot. You can slow it down and explore more. Add Lake Naivasha or Mount Kenya, spend longer on safari, and still have time to unwind on the coast. This also lets you include a conservancy or cultural stop like Laikipia or Samburu.
• 3-4 weeks – Now you’re doing Kenya justice. You’ve got time for the big sights and the deep cuts – from the Great Rift Valley lakes to forested hills and remote reserves. Take slow routes through the central highlands, loop up toward Lake Turkana, or island-hop up the Swahili coast.

Match your route to your travel style

Kenya isn’t one-size-fits-all. Plan your route based on what actually excites you, not what fills a checklist.

Into wildlife and classic safaris?

• Maasai Mara – Big cats, open plains, and the Great Migration (July-October).
• Amboseli – Massive elephant herds with Mt Kilimanjaro in the background.
• Samburu or Laikipia – Northern Kenya specialties and fewer crowds.
• Tsavo – Wild and underrated, with room to breathe.

Want dramatic landscapes?

• Great Rift Valley – Think escarpments, lakes, hot springs, and volcanic craters.
• Mount Kenya – Rainforest, alpine peaks, and fewer hikers than Kilimanjaro.
• Lake Turkana – Remote, stark, and like nowhere else in Kenya.

After culture and connection?

• Nairobi – Markets, museums, and modern Kenyan city life.
• Lamu – Swahili history, coral-stone alleys, and centuries-old mosques.
• Community-run conservancies – Combine wildlife with real insight into Indigenous knowledge and land stewardship.

Need to unwind?

• Diani or Watamu – Beach bliss, reef snorkeling, and laid-back vibes.
• Lamu – No cars, just donkeys, dhows, and the sound of the call to prayer.
• Coastal hideaways – Private beach houses or eco-lodges away from the crowds.

Getting around Kenya

Getting around Kenya takes planning – the country isn’t huge, but road conditions, distances, and terrain can make travel slow. Whether you’re flying between regions or driving cross-country, how you move will shape what you see.

• Fly when it makes sense – Domestic airlines (like Safarilink and AirKenya) save time between distant regions. Useful for coast-to-safari hops.
• Hire a car and driver – Ideal for flexibility, especially if you’re visiting parks like the Maasai Mara or Amboseli by road.
• Trains and buses – The Nairobi-Mombasa train is scenic, fast, and budget-friendly. Long-distance buses work, but aren’t ideal for families or tight timelines.
• Map your route wisely – Some roads are rough or slow, and travel times can surprise you.
• Break up long legs – Kenya’s best moments often come between the big names – market towns, viewpoints, and roadside chapatis worth stopping for.

How to slow travel in Kenya?

Kenya is built for slow travel – wide-open landscapes, early mornings, and days that shift with the light. It’s not about ticking off parks and beaches. It’s about being present – letting the land, the people, and the pace shape your trip.

In the Maasai Mara, stay in one area. Don’t race from sighting to sighting. Sit near a waterhole, watch the light change, and listen to the land. In Laikipia, walk with Samburu or Maasai guides – not everything needs four wheels. These slower moments often become the ones you remember most.

On the coast, Lamu is the definition of slow – no cars, just dhows and donkeys. Wander the narrow streets, sail at sunset, and stay a few extra days. Mount Kenya’s lower slopes offer peace too – hikes, birdsong, and space to breathe.

The Rift Valley’s lakes – Baringo, Elementaita – invite long pauses. Watch the birds, swim, and read. No rush.

Kenya travel tips for slowing down

• Stay longer in fewer places – two nights minimum, three is better.
• Walk when you can – many conservancies offer guided walks.
• Skip Wi-Fi – disconnect and tune in.
• Talk to people – locals are Kenya’s greatest storytellers.
• Keep your Kenya itinerary loose – leave space for the unexpected.

How to handle money and payments in Kenya?

Handling money in Kenya is mostly straightforward, but you’ll want to plan ahead, especially when heading off the main routes. Cards work well in cities, malls, and most hotels, but cash still plays a big role in markets, rural towns, and day-to-day tipping. Add mobile money to the mix – specifically M-PESA – and you’ll be covered just about everywhere.

The local currency is the Kenyan shilling (KSh). You’ll need it for most small transactions, and few places outside airports or luxury hotels accept foreign cash. Exchange rates are best at banks or reputable forex bureaus, not airport counters or dodgy roadside stalls.

ATMs and card use

ATMs are easy to find in Nairobi, Mombasa, and larger towns. Stick to machines attached to banks like Equity, Co-operative Bank, or Absa. Some charge extra for foreign cards, so check with your home bank.

• Credit and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) work in most urban restaurants, hotels, and shops. But in rural areas, machines may be down – or simply not exist. Always carry backup cash.
• Contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) aren’t widely accepted. Mobile money, however, is huge.

M-PESA: Kenya’s mobile money king

M-PESA is used for everything – from buying groceries to paying taxi drivers. You can set it up with a Kenyan SIM card or use a money transfer app to send funds locally. Many locals prefer it over cards.

Smart payment tips

• Carry small notes – breaking a 1,000 KSh note in a village kiosk won’t win you fans.
• Withdraw cash before heading to remote areas.
• Don’t expect card machines at local markets, roadside stalls, or public transport.
• If asked, always pay in Kenyan shillings – foreign currency “conversion” is rarely in your favor.

What are the most common scams?

Kenya is generally safe and welcoming, but like anywhere with tourism, there are a few common scams to watch out for. Most are low-stakes and easy to avoid if you know what to look for. Stay alert, trust your instincts, and you’ll steer clear of most issues.

• “Support this school/charity” requests. In cities or near tourist areas, someone might approach you with a story about raising money for a school, football team, or orphanage. Some are genuine, many are not. If you want to help, ask your lodge about verified community programs or donate through established NGOs, not on the street.
• Inflated prices at souvenir stalls. Markets in places like Nairobi, Maasai Mara gates, or coastal towns are fun, but haggling is expected. Prices for crafts, beadwork, or wood carvings can start 3-4 times higher than locals would pay. Stay polite, offer what you think is fair, and don’t be afraid to walk away. It’s part of the game.
• “Helpers” at ATMs. In some busy areas, someone may offer to “assist” you at an ATM. Decline firmly – it’s often a distraction scam. Always use ATMs inside bank branches and never let anyone near your PIN or card.
• Fake safari deals. Be cautious with anyone offering you a last-minute “cheap safari” on the street or online through unverified sources. Use reputable operators or book through your accommodation. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Airport and taxi overcharging. At Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, unofficial taxi drivers may quote inflated prices. Stick with licensed airport taxis or use ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Uber. Always agree on the fare before setting off if you're using a local taxi.
• Extra charges at fuel stations. Most petrol attendants are honest, but occasionally, you may be offered engine oil, washer fluid, or premium fuel you don’t need. Politely say no unless you’re sure. Make sure the pump is set to zero before fueling begins.
• Unofficial guides. At attractions like Nairobi National Park, Hell’s Gate, or cultural sites, unofficial guides may approach you offering a “tour.” While some are knowledgeable, many overcharge or deliver poor information. Go with official guides or book through your lodge or park office.

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Kenya?

Kenya’s wild spaces, rich cultures, and iconic wildlife are a privilege to experience – but they’re not there for your entertainment. Responsible travel in Kenya means respecting people, places, and animals, and understanding the impact you leave behind. These Kenya travel tips will help you tread more lightly – and travel more ethically.

• Respect communities – Kenya is home to many ethnic groups, each with unique traditions. Ask before taking photos, dress modestly in villages or religious areas, and avoid giving money or gifts to children. If you want to help, support local NGOs or vetted community projects.
• Support local tourism – Choose lodges and tours run by local operators or community conservancies. Experiences like village visits or walking safaris with Indigenous guides are richer – and your money stays in the area.
• Be wildlife-wise – Stay quiet on game drives. Don’t ask your guide to get closer, and never feed animals. Respect their space – this is their home, not a zoo.
• Travel light – Stick to marked roads in parks, avoid littering, and don’t take “souvenirs” from nature. Bring a reusable water bottle – many lodges now provide filtered water.
• Tip fairly – KSh 500-1000 per day is standard for guides, with smaller tips for porters or staff. Generosity is appreciated, but keep it balanced.
• Be curious – and humble – Learn a few Swahili greetings, ask questions, and listen. Responsible travel isn’t about doing less – it’s about doing it better. And in Kenya, that means traveling with care.

Don’t assume every route is passable, especially in the rainy season

Kenya’s road conditions shift fast. What looks like a smooth drive on the map might turn into deep ruts, washouts, or mud traps after a few hours of rain. In wet months – March to May and November – routes to places like Samburu, the Loita Hills, or even Lake Bogoria can become unpredictable. Always ask locals or your lodge before setting off – and don’t expect your GPS to warn you.

Be smart with park timings – and know when the gates close

National parks and reserves in Kenya follow strict hours – usually 6:00 am to 6:00 pm – and they mean it. If you’re self-driving, plan to arrive early and leave on time. Late arrivals at Maasai Mara or Amboseli gates won’t get in – and you can’t drive through the park after hours. Some parks also require advance online payment or printed permits – don’t assume you can pay at the gate.

Expect random roadblocks – and stay calm at checkpoints

Police checkpoints are part of road travel in Kenya. You’ll see them on highways, near towns, and especially close to borders. Most are routine – officers may ask for ID, driver’s license, or vehicle documents. Stay respectful, answer simply, and don’t hand over your passport unless required. Having a copy helps. Bribes aren’t necessary, and acting nervous just makes things slower.