Kenya is a year-round safari destination. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season from late June to October. This period coincides with the world-famous Great Wildebeest Migration in the Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Kenya has transitioned to an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system. All foreign visitors must apply online via the official government portal prior to travel. If you plan on combining Kenya with Uganda and Rwanda, consider requesting the East Africa Tourist Visa ($100 USD) for seamless multi-border entry.
Most safaris are conducted in specialized 4x4 Land Cruisers or open-top safari vans. Space inside safari vehicles is limited. We strongly advise packing light in soft-sided duffel bags rather than hard-shell suitcases, especially if taking domestic bush flights where luggage caps are strictly 15 kg (33 lbs).
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory if arriving from an endemic country. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended when visiting safari parks and coastal areas like Mombasa. Always consult your travel clinic at least 4 to 6 weeks before departure.
The official currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). US Dollars (printed after 2013) are widely accepted for safari tips and lodge extras. Credit cards are accepted at major hotels and lodges, but carrying small cash denominations is essential for local markets and tipping guides.
Dress is informal and lightweight. Bring neutral-colored clothes (khaki, beige, green) for game drives and avoid blue or black, which attract tsetse flies. When visiting local villages or coastal regions, dress conservatively out of respect for local traditions.