Passport and Visa Information
Following the Kenyan Presidential directive on December 12, 2023, all travelers to Kenya will be required to apply for an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) https://www.etakenya.go.ke/en. Kenya eTA is a semi-automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to Kenya. Immigration officers reserve the authorization to determine admissibility upon travelers’ arrival. The eTA is only valid for one trip and affected travelers must obtain a new eTA for each visit to Kenya. Fully accredited diplomats are exempted from eTA.
Participants are responsible for applying for and paying for electronic travel authorization. Please find the steps and required documents to apply for your eTA here.
Vaccination Certificates
Vaccination for Yellow Fever should be taken before visiting Kenya. Yellow Fever Certificate is required.
Insurance
It is recommended that all participants ensure that they have adequate travel insurance.
About Kenya
Kenya is a country in the Eastern Africa region. The capital city is Nairobi. English is the official language and Swahili is the national language. It is a multi-ethnic state and various tribal groups typically speak their mother tongues within their own communities.
Currency
The local currency is the Kenyan shilling. Currency can be exchanged in foreign exchange bureaus and banks. Banks operate between 8/9AM and 4/6PM (weekdays), and 9AM to 12/4PM on Saturdays depending on the bank branch. The easiest currencies to exchange are the US Dollar, Pounds Sterling, and the Euro. ATMs are widely available in Nairobi which accept debit or credit cards carrying international teller network symbols such as Cirrus, Maestro, MasterCard and Visa. Credit cards are not widely accepted beyond larger facilities in Nairobi. Even in cities it is advisable to carry some cash.
Communication
The telephone system is adequate. Cellular network coverage is good in main cities and much of the south of the country, but coverage is unreliable and often unavailable in the northern counties. Telecommunications operators Safaricom and Airtel have roaming services. Safaricom is considered the most reliable, particularly in remote areas. Visitors can easily obtain a local SIM card from accredited stores across the country and airports, and top-up payment cards for these are also readily available. It is advisable to purchase cards from genuine Safaricom and Airtel outlets because of mobile phone fraud e.g., SIM swap.
Plug type is G; which is the plug that has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Kenya operates on a 240V supply voltage and 50Hz. Nairobi experiences intermittent power outages.
Climate
Kenya has a pleasant climate throughout the year, but can get chilly in the evening, so bringing a jacket or sweater is advisable.
Health situation/infrastructure
Medical standards in Nairobi are the best available in the country, and most specialties are available.
Food/drinks
Food served in large hotels and well-known restaurants is likely to be safe. Avoid street vendors, because the standard of hygiene may be low and food may not be fresh. Ensure milk and dairy products have been pasteurised. Although tap water is available in all major towns, it is advisable to drink bottled water. Nairobi experiences intermittent water shortages.