14 Things You Need to Know About Kenya Safari.

Finally, the time has come for you to enjoy an exceptional trip to Kenya. Well, truth is, you are in for a memorable trip, tremendous experiences and electrifying moments of leisure. Now, before you start your journey to this land of beauty, here are a few Things You Need to Know About Kenya Safari.

Language: English is the official language and (Ki) Swahili is the National language.

Weather : Just like most East African countries, the weather in Kenya is excellent. However in in late-April, May and early June, we experience our long rains season.

Currency : The indigenous currency used in Kenya is shillings (KSH).

People: The people of Kenya make up 42 different tribes, with different cultural practices and beliefs. The Maasai & Samburu are the most famous people in Kenya and the world as they have maintained their culture to date.

Wildlife : Besides the wildebeest migration in the famous Maasai Mara National Reserve every year from July to October, Kenya is also the perfect place to see the ‘big five’ (Elephant, Lion, Rhino, Buffalo& Leopard).

The phrase Big Five game was coined by big – game hunters and refers to the five most difficult animals in Africa to hunt on foot. The term is still used in most tourists and wildlife guides. The members of the big five were chosen for the difficulty in hunting them and not their size, which is why the leopard is on the list and the enormous hippopotamus is not. Big Game hunting is no longer allowed in Kenya.

The Capital City :  The capital city of Kenya is Nairobi. Nairobi offers excellent opportunities for tourists, business men and women as well as the local residents.

Main Airport : Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Nairobi is 45 minutes from the City Centre. Moi International Airport, Mombasa is sited much closer to the City, but most of the tourist hotels are situated much further out along the beach front. Allow an extra hour for journeys to the South Coast because of the ferry crossing.

Safety Precautions :  No matter where you are, keep your valuables safe and do not walk around with large amounts of money. Always pay close attention to your tour guide as they are highly resourceful with everything to do with Kenya.

Customs Export : You are permitted to leave the country with a reasonable amount of tobacco and alcoholic products. Export of game trophies and skins is prohibited unless acquired from personnel of the Government of Kenya. Game trophies, plant materials, hard drugs and pornographic content are all prohibited.

Communication :  Several Mobile Network providers are available. It’s easy to bring your mobile phone and get a Mobile Network Line. International phone calls require a 000 pre – dial.

Banks :  All major towns in Kenya have banks with a bureau de change. Banking hours are between 0900HRS – 1600HRS weekdays and 0900HRS – 1200HRS weekends. Banks at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport are 24HRS. Forex bureaus are open from 0830HRS – 1700HRS and usually do not charge commissions.

Electricity :  Voltage in Kenya is 220 – 240 AC. An adapter is necessary for appliances which are manufactured in the USA and Canada can operate on 110 – 120 AC. The sockets are made accordingly to the British system. (3 pins)

Kenya / Tanzania Visas : These can be obtained at the border for most nationalities, but you are advised to confirm this with the Kenya / Tanzania Embassy or contact us before travel. 2 passport size photographs and a passport valid for 6 months will be required.

Transport :  Public transportation is easy to access and certainly not expensive. Bus services are available to every main city in the country. For short distances “matatus” are also an option. Speed governors are fitted in this minivans and are no longer overcrowded.

There is only one passenger train which goes to Mombasa. It is a wonderful experience since the train is still in colonial style. Enjoy your dinner in the dining wagon. In the morning by daylight, you can still get the last glimpse of the game in Tsavo National Park that you’ve crossed during the night. (buses and train can be booked for you by us.)