Passport and Visa Information
It is the traveller’s responsibility to verify if a visa is required for their nationality. Please visit https://www.etakenya.go.ke/en for more information.
Visitors who require a visa for entry into Kenya must apply and pay for their visa online through www.evisa.go.ke. The visa fee is US$50. Online visas typically take two days to process, but participants are encouraged to submit their application at least one week before travel.
Once approved, the visa will be sent online, and the participant will need to print the approved visa. Upon arrival in Kenya, the immigration officer will attach the visa sticker to the passport.
Participants are responsible for their own visa applications and fees.
You can find the visa application procedure here.
Vaccination Certificates
Yellow Fever vaccination is required before visiting Kenya. A Yellow Fever Certificate will be required for entry into the country.
Insurance
IFRC/AMP strongly recommends that all participants ensure they have adequate travel insurance to cover their trip.
About Kenya
Kenya is located in the Eastern Africa region, with its capital city in Nairobi. English is the official language, while Swahili is the national language. Kenya is a multi-ethnic country, and various tribal groups speak their mother tongues within their own communities.
Currency
The local currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). Currency can be exchanged at foreign exchange bureaus and banks, which typically operate between 8/9 AM and 4/6 PM on weekdays, and 9 AM to 12/4 PM on Saturdays (depending on the branch). The easiest currencies to exchange are the US Dollar, Pounds Sterling, and the Euro.
ATMs are widely available in Nairobi, accepting international cards such as Cirrus, Maestro, MasterCard, and Visa. However, credit cards are not widely accepted outside larger facilities in Nairobi, so it’s advisable to carry some cash.
Communication
Kenya’s telephone system is generally adequate, with good cellular network coverage in major cities and much of the south of the country. However, coverage can be unreliable or unavailable in northern counties. Safaricom and Airtel are the main telecommunications operators, with Safaricom being considered the most reliable, particularly in remote areas.
Visitors can easily obtain a local SIM card at accredited stores across the country and at airports. Prepaid top-up cards are also readily available. It’s advisable to purchase cards from genuine outlets to avoid mobile phone fraud, such as SIM swapping.
The plug type in Kenya is G, with three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. The country operates on a 240V supply voltage and 50Hz. Be aware that Nairobi may experience intermittent power outages.
Climate
Kenya enjoys a pleasant climate year-round. However, it can get chilly in the evenings, so bringing a jacket or sweater is recommended.
Health situation/infrastructure
Nairobi offers the best medical facilities in the country, with most specialties available.
Food/drinks
Food served at large hotels and reputable restaurants is generally safe. However, it’s advisable to avoid street vendors due to potential hygiene concerns and the freshness of the food. Ensure that milk and dairy products have been pasteurized. Although tap water is available in major towns, it’s recommended to drink bottled water due to intermittent water shortages in Nairobi.