Iraq Kenya

Kenya is bordered by Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia, with the Indian Ocean to the southeast. It has Nairobi as its capital. Kenya is popular for its safaris and thriving tech industry.

The population is approximately 55 million. Kenya operates on East Africa Time (GMT+3), with no daylight saving time observed.

Kenyan cuisine reflects the country’s cultural diversity. Meals center on staples like ugali, a maize flour dish, and nyama choma, grilled meat. Popular accompaniments include leafy vegetables like sukuma wiki, beef, chicken, or goatmeat. Coastal dishes include grilled fish, prawn curry, and seafood stew.

While Kenya is not a major wine producer, imported South African wines and locally brewed beers like Tusker are widely enjoyed. Fresh juices made from tropical fruits like mango, passion fruit, and pineapple are also a highlight.

Kenya offers world-class outdoor experiences, from witnessing the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara to trekking Africa’s second-highest peak, Mount Kenya. Coastal waters in Malindi and Watamu boast vibrant coral reefs for snorkelling and diving, while Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru are prime spots for birdwatching and game drives.

Kenya’s diverse landscapes include vast savannahs, towering mountains, and scenic coastlines. The Great Rift Valley is a geological wonder, home to unique ecosystems. Amboseli National Park, with its iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, is renowned for its elephant herds, while the Tsavo and Samburu reserves host rare wildlife like the gerenuk and Grevy’s zebra.

Kenya’s festivals celebrate its rich culture and heritage. The Lamu Cultural Festival showcases Swahili traditions with dhow races and traditional dances, while the Maasai Mara Wildebeest Migration Festival attracts wildlife enthusiasts. National holidays like Jamhuri Day (12 December) and Madaraka Day (1 June) are marked with parades and festivities, while the Kenya International Film Festival highlights regional cinematic talent.

Travellers to Kenya should ensure vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus and other standard travel vaccines are up to date. Malaria and dengue fever prevention is crucial, particularly in lowland and coastal areas, so use insect repellent and take prophylactics. Healthcare facilities are advanced in urban areas but may be limited in rural regions. Comprehensive travel insurance, including coverage for medical evacuation, is strongly advised.

The official currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES).

Kenya uses plug type G (as in the UK), with a standard voltage of 240V and a frequency of 50Hz.

Kenya provides many transportation options. Domestic flights are available for major city travel. Public transport, including buses, minibuses, bikes, tricycles, and ride-hailing services, is available for most travel outside the major cities. Kenya also has a railway network that caters to passenger travel. Although trains can be somewhat slower than buses, they offer scenic views of the country.

English and Swahili are the official languages, with Swahili being widely spoken across the country.

Modest clothing is recommended, especially in rural areas and when visiting religious sites. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people and military structures. It is disrespectful for a visitor to reject food offers. Do not go empty-handed if going to visit a local.

• Dry Season (June to October and December to March): This is the hottest period of the year. It is also the best time for wildlife viewing, with the wildebeest migration occurring between June and September.

• Wet Season (April to May and October to December): The long rainy season, which occurs from April to June, comes with heavy rains that may make some areas inaccessible, while the short rainy season from October to December is characterised by brief, refreshing showers.

Kenya accommodates a wide range of budgets. Budget travellers can expect to spend $50–100 daily, covering basic accommodations, local meals, and public transport. Mid-range travellers may budget $150–300 daily for comfortable lodges, guided tours, and safari experiences. Luxury travellers seeking private game drives and high-end resorts should expect costs exceeding $500 daily.

Proof of yellow fever vaccination required for Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Republic of the, Côte d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, The, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sudan, Togo, Uganda, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela.

• Kenya is one of the destinations in Africa that can spot the big give; do not miss the opportunity. 

• You can consider a self-drive safari, provided you are hiring a local guide to help you see much in less time.

• Book your flights and tickets in advance to help reduce costs.