FAQs

Exploring Kenya promises an unforgettable adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and extraordinary wildlife encounters. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, it’s crucial to understand the necessary travel preparations and requirements. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, from vaccinations to packing tips, to help you plan your trip with ease.

1. Vaccination Requirements

Yellow Fever Vaccination

A yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entering Kenya only if you are arriving from, or transiting through, a yellow fever-endemic area in South America or Africa. This includes East African countries like Kenya and Uganda. Refer to the CDC and WHO for a current list of affected countries.

If your itinerary includes visits to both Kenya and Tanzania, ensure you are vaccinated for yellow fever and carry an International Certificate of Vaccination issued by your physician. Failure to present this certificate may result in denied entry. If your physician advises against the vaccine due to medical reasons, request the appropriate documentation to present at entry points.

Malaria Precautions

Kenya is a malaria transmission area. Consult your doctor or travel clinic to assess individual risks, discuss mosquito bite prevention, and obtain antimalarial medication. Fill out your prescriptions before departure.

COVID-19 Requirements

Currently, travelers entering Kenya are not required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test result. However, travelers displaying flu-like symptoms must complete a passenger locator form and take an on-arrival COVID-19 Antigen test at their own expense. Those who test positive may require additional testing or isolation as per local guidelines.

2. Passport and Visa Information

Passport Validity

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six (6) months beyond your trip’s end date. It should also have a minimum of two (2) blank visa pages for entry and exit stamps.

Kenya Visa Requirements

International visitors need an Electronic Travel Authority (eTA) before entering Kenya. Applications must be submitted prior to departure. Visit eTA Kenya to apply.

Key details about the Kenya eTA:

• Cost: $30 (plus a $2.50 service fee).
• Valid for single entry and expires upon exit.
• Must be applied for at least three days before travel but can be done up to three months prior.

Travelers holding a valid Kenya e-visa for 2024 (including children traveling with e-visa holders) do not need to apply for a new eTA. If traveling between Kenya and neighboring countries such as Tanzania, Uganda, or Rwanda, a Visitor’s Pass will allow re-entry into Kenya.

Information required for eTA:

• Passport details (valid for six months with one blank page).
• A passport-style photo.
• Contact information, including home address and email.
• Flight and accommodation details.
• Payment method (credit/debit card, Apple Pay, etc.).

Host information for Kenya eTA:

• Atolo Africa Travel Group Limited
• Phone: +254793051774 / +254714685341
• Email: sales@kenyawildparks.com

Tanzania Visa Requirements

To enter Tanzania, an Electronic Visa (eVisa) is required. Visit Tanzania eVisa to apply.

Key details about the Tanzania eVisa:

• Cost: $100 for U.S. citizens (multiple-entry visa valid for one year). Canadian citizens may apply for a single-entry visa for $50.
• Apply at least 60 days before your arrival date.
• Average processing time: 10 days.

Information required for eVisa:

• Passport details.
• A copy of your passport photo.
• Return ticket.
• Host details: Atolo Africa Travel Group Limited, Dar es Salaam, P.O. Box 75990.

3. Money Matters: Cash and Credit Cards

Kenya and Tanzania are largely cash-based economies. U.S. dollars are widely accepted, but ensure you carry recently issued bills in smaller denominations. The local currency is also accepted.

Credit card acceptance is limited to major shops, hotels, and lodges in large cities like Nairobi, Arusha, and Dar es Salaam. ATM access is available in urban areas but is scarce in rural locations, so plan accordingly.

4. Packing List and Baggage Restrictions

Baggage Limits

Flights within East Africa have strict baggage restrictions:

• Weight limit: 33 pounds (15 kilograms) per passenger, including personal items like purses and camera gear.
• Luggage must be soft-sided (no hard suitcases) for easier storage on safari vehicles and light aircraft.

Packing Essentials

• Clothing: Pack breathable, lightweight layers in neutral colors such as khaki, beige, and green for game drives. Avoid black or navy, as these attract insects.
• Accessories: Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent with DEET, and camera equipment with extra batteries.
• Duffel Bag: Ideal for light aircraft travel and safari vehicles.

5. Prohibited Items: Plastic Bags

Kenya and Tanzania have banned plastic bags, including carrier and flat bags from shops. Travelers found with these bags at airports may face confiscation. Multi-use bags, such as zippered cosmetic cases, are permitted.

6. Departure Taxes in Zanzibar

Travelers departing Zanzibar must pay a $52 departure tax (subject to change) if not included in the air ticket. Domestic flights departing Zanzibar are subject to a $5 tax per person, payable onsite. Always carry sufficient cash in U.S. dollars for these payments.

7. Camera and Binoculars

Kenya and Tanzania are a photographer’s paradise. Bring ample memory cards, spare batteries, and strong binoculars, especially for birdwatching enthusiasts.

8. Safety and Security

Kenya and Tanzania are generally safe for tourists, with heightened security measures in place at major airports, hotels, and tourism hubs. Travel with trusted drivers, tour operators, and experienced lodge staff to ensure a secure experience.

9. Tipping Guidelines

Tipping is discretionary, but the following guidelines can help:

• Safari Driver-Guides: $10–$15 per person, per day.
• Local Guides: $15 per person, per day for full-day tours.
• Hotel Porters: $2 per bag.
• Bush Lodges: $10 per person, per day (shared among staff).
• Housekeepers: $2 per night.
• Restaurants: 10–15%, unless already included.

By adhering to these travel tips and preparing in advance, your journey to Kenya and Tanzania will be as seamless as it is unforgettable. Pack your sense of adventure and get ready to experience the trip of a lifetime!