Kenya travel guide
Kenya Tourism | Kenya Guide
You're Going to Love Kenya
From wildlife and savannahs to snow-topped mountains, Kenya will welcome you with open arms and its traditions will fascinate you.
What to do in Kenya
1. Go for a Safari Trip at Amboseli National Park
The elephants are the stars of this national park, but don't forget to look for zebras, wildebeest and over 350 bird species while on a safari. Mount Kilimanjaro will be in the background for you to admire.
2. Photograph Pink Flamingos at Lake Nakuru
This national park is a sight to be seen – admire millions of flamingos hanging around the shores of the lake. A fenced off sanctuary is also dedicated to protect giraffes and rhinos.
3. Feed the Giraffes
Head to the Giraffe Center in Lang'ata for a guided tour and feed the giraffes. The center aims to protect the endangered giraffe specie found in East Africa.
4. Go for a Swim at Diani Beach
Voted as the leading beach destination in Africa, white sand, palm trees and warm water await you at this 11 mi long beach.
5. Hike Mount Kenya
Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya, and active travelers will be able to hikes it, with paths of varying difficulties available.
When to visit Kenya
If you're hoping to see the Great Migration of zebras and wildebeest, the best time to visit is during the dry months of July to September.
How to Get to Kenya
Entry requirements
Citizens from over 40 countries, including most African countries, are able to enter Kenya without a visa. Citizens of all other countries will need a visa to visit, with most able to get it from the airport on arrival.
Plane
Kenya Airways is the national airline and has direct connections to over 50 destinations. Over 25 further airlines connect various parts of the world to Kenya's four international airports, which are located in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu and Eldoret.
Car
It is possible to drive to Kenya from all its neighbouring countries. If you are coming from Ethiopia, you will be driving through Moyale close to the border. If you are in Uganda, you can drive from Busia or Malaba, and coming from Tanzania, you will pass via Namanga.
Bus
Bus travel is available from Arusha and Dar-es-Salaam in Tanzania, and from Kampala in Uganda. The major bus companies that operate services are Easy Coach, Kampala Coach, Modern Coast, Crown Buses and Mash.
Boat
Ferries are available through Lake Victoria from Mwanza in Tanzania heading to Kisumu in Kenya. On the Indian Ocean side, cruises arrive from Zanzibar to Mombasa.
Popular airlines serving Kenya
Where to stay in Kenya
Hotels are available in all the big cities and main touristy areas around the country, with accommodation ranging from budget to luxury. For a more authentic experience, consider a Homestay where you might have a meal included in the nightly price.
Where to stay in popular areas of Kenya
Most booked hotels in Kenya
How to Get Around Kenya
Public Transportation
Privately owned minibuses, called Matatus, are the main mode of transportation and serve all the major towns as well as rural areas.
Trains
A train is available linking Mombasa to Nairobi, called the Lunatic Express, which offers economy and first-class seats. The full trip takes a total of 4h 30m, with 2 trains available per day in each direction.
Bus
Long distance bus travel is available through local buses that connect the major cities, while privately owned companies, such as Citi Hoppa, Double M, Metro Bus and Mwi Sacco, operate local buses. They operate similar routes to the Matatus but are a cleaner and quieter option.
Car
If you are thinking of renting a car to drive around Kenya, you will find all the major car rental companies in the main cities. Due to the conditions of the roads in the countryside, you are advised to rent a heavy duty car, such as a jeep.
Plane
Kenya Airways offers local flights throughout the country, with budget airlines Fly540 and Airkenya offering flights to and from a limited number of airports, including Mombasa, Lamu, Malindi and Masaai Mara.
Best car hire deals in Kenya
Full-size SUV
5 Adults, 2 Bags
S$ 225/day
Premium SUV
5 Adults, 5 Bags
S$ 250/day
The Cost of Living in Kenya
Dining out in Kenya will cost around 500 KES (4.80 USD) per person for an inexpensive option, and 1,500 KES (14.50 USD) for a mid-range meal. The cost of a local bus ride is around 80 KES (0.75 USD), while riding a Matatu starts at 30 KES (0.35 USD) and depends on the time of the day and distance. Credit cards are accepted in all major hotels, restaurants and establishments.