Elephant herd walking across savanna with Mount Kilimanjaro in background
Travel Guide

Kenya

Kenya stands as East Africa's premier safari destination, offering an extraordinary blend of wildlife spectacles, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. From the sweeping savannas of the Masai Mara to the snow-capped peak of Mount Kenya, the country delivers experiences that define the African safari. The annual Great Migration, when millions of wildebeest and zebras cross from the Serengeti into the Mara, ranks among nature's most dramatic events. Beyond wildlife, Kenya offers pristine Indian Ocean beaches, vibrant cities, and encounters with the legendary Maasai people. Whether you're seeking Big Five sightings, beach relaxation, or cultural immersion, Kenya provides a complete African experience.

National Parks in Kenya

Kenya's top safari and wildlife destinations

Cities in Kenya

Explore Kenya's urban destinations

Best Time to Visit Kenya

Best Months

January, February, July, August, September, October

For Safari

Peak: July, August, September, October

Peak coincides with Great Migration in Masai Mara

Seasons

January, February, March

Hot and dry, excellent wildlife viewing

March, April, May

Heavy rains, lush landscapes, fewer tourists, lower prices

June, July, August, September

Cool and dry, Great Migration, peak season

October, November

Light rains, green scenery, good wildlife

December

Warm, holiday season, busy

Read full best time guide

Kenya Visa Requirements

Most visitors need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Kenya. The online ETA system replaced the previous e-Visa and is required for most nationalities. Apply online before travel.

e-Visa Available

Yes

Cost

$51 USD

Validity

90 days

Visa on Arrival

Yes

Requirements

  • Passport valid 6+ months beyond entry
  • Return or onward ticket
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Proof of sufficient funds
  • Passport-size photo (digital for e-Visa)
Full visa guide by nationality

Is Kenya Safe?

Safety Rating: Moderate

Kenya is generally safe for tourists who take standard precautions. Most visits are trouble-free. Petty crime exists in cities, and some border regions should be avoided.

Safe Areas

  • Tourist areas in Nairobi (Karen, Westlands, Gigiri)
  • Safari parks and reserves
  • Coastal resorts (Diani, Watamu)
  • Major tourist routes

Areas to Avoid

  • Somali border region
  • Parts of North Eastern Province
  • Nairobi slums (Kibera, Mathare)
  • Eastleigh at night

Safety Tips

  • Use registered safari operators
  • Don't walk with valuables visible
  • Use Uber/Bolt instead of random taxis
  • Avoid walking alone at night in cities
  • Keep copies of passport separate from original
Read full safety guide

Kenya Travel Costs

Budget LevelDaily CostIncludes
budget$50-$100/dayHostels, local food, public transport
mid range$150-$300/dayHotels, restaurants, some tours
luxury$400-$1000/dayLuxury lodges, private tours
Full budget breakdown

Health & Vaccinations

Required Vaccinations

  • Yellow Fever (Required if arriving from endemic country)

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Tetanus, Polio (booster)

Malaria Risk

Prophylaxis recommended for: Coast, Western Kenya, Lake Victoria region, Safari areas below 2000m

Healthcare

Good private healthcare in Nairobi and Mombasa, limited elsewhere. Travel insurance essential.

Tap Water: Not safe - drink bottled water

Getting to Kenya

International Airports

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport

Nairobi (NBO)

Main Hub

Moi International Airport

Mombasa (MBA)

Major Airlines

Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, KLM, British Airways

Kenya Highlights

Must See

  • Great Migration in Masai Mara
  • Mount Kenya
  • Amboseli with Kilimanjaro views
  • Diani Beach
  • Lamu Old Town (UNESCO)

Unique Experiences

  • Hot air balloon over the Mara
  • Visit a Maasai village
  • Giraffe Centre in Nairobi
  • Snorkeling in Watamu Marine Park
  • Train ride on Madaraka Express

Off the Beaten Path

  • Lake Turkana (Jade Sea)
  • Samburu National Reserve
  • Hell's Gate National Park
  • Kakamega Forest
  • Chyulu Hills