You have finally decided to make that long-awaited trip to Kenya. Congratulations! You will have a fantastic time. And if you are a bit anxious about your trip, I assure you that you don’t need to be. Kenya has some of the friendliest people you will ever have the pleasure of meeting. They are hospitable and the country will simply serve you the best views and sights of Africa. Below are a few tips and suggestions to help you have a smooth trip.
Currency
The Currency accepted for all your shopping needs is the Kenya shilling. For ease of travel, it is best to pay for your trip, accommodation and airport transfers upfront before you get on the flight to avoid the hustle. Getting in touch with a reputable travel company like Kendirita Tours and Travel Ltd will definitely make things that much simpler for you.
In case you need cash, you can simply access your money through most bank ATMs using your VISA card in all towns and cities in the country. It is important to note that Kenya has a daily withdrawal limit of Kes. 40,000. Kenya also has M-Pesa; the best mobile money system offered by Africa’s telco giant Safaricom. M-Pesa lets you pay for goods and services without needing to carry cash around. To obtain the service you will only need to present yourself physically to any Safaricom agent shop and provide your passport for registration. You will then be issued with a Simcard that costs only Kes. 100. Your mobile number will then be activated for M-Pesa and you will be good to go!
Internet and WIFI
While most airports, shopping malls and hotels in Kenya have WIFI, generally, public WIFI is not popular for being reliable or even safe. So as a bonus for purchasing the Simcard, you may use the same to buy internet data bundles. This will ensure you stay connected while on the move. You will get reliably good speeds on the 4G network anywhere in the country.
Languages Spoken
Kenya is a multi-cultural and multi-lingual society comprising over 40 local dialects. But you shouldn’t fret over this. English and Kiswahili, the country’s two national languages are both widely spoken here. The majority of staff working in the tourism and hospitality sectors, drivers, and tour guides at parks all speak English. You can always get assistance should you need it, even at supermarkets and entertainment joints.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations are mandatory in Kenya. Some of the common vaccinations you need to travel to Kenya are Covid-19, Diphtheria, Yellow Fever, Measles, and Polio. To be safe, simply speak to your travel advisor who will inform you of all the vaccinations you will need prior to your travel. If you are reading this, I can assure you that Kendirita will take excellent care of you.
Transport and Infrastructure
Kenya has an excellent road network, one of the best in the region. The recently unveiled Nairobi expressway has significantly eased traffic congestion between Jomo Kenyatta Airport and the city. It now takes less than 20 minutes from the airport using the expressway, a trip that would have taken more than an hour in the past.
The elaborate good roads also connect Nairobi to the rest of the country. Although the allure is obvious, self-driving is not recommended especially if you are not very familiar with the country roads. There are numerous safari tour van options with experienced drivers who will take you where you need to go hassle-free and at pocket-friendly prices.
The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) is an affordable way to travel by train from Nairobi to the Indian Ocean City of Mombasa popular for its beautiful white sandy beaches, decadent coastal cuisines, and vibrant nightlife. You may consider adding Mombasa to your itinerary at a considerably lower cost by advising your tour company to include SGR. The trip costs Kes. 1000 and Kes. 3000 traveling one way for coach and first-class seats respectively.
In case you need to move within the city for personal errands, you may rest easy as Uber and Bolt taxi services are available by simply downloading the apps.
The UK Charging Socket
Kenya uses the UK plug socket for all electrical charging requirements. To make sure you do not get stranded, you should consider carrying a traveling adaptor to help you use all your electrical appliances safely whilst on your trip here.
Kenya is a stunning country and I am confident these few tips will make your trip that much easier. Keep checking with us as we continue to share more insights with you. Kendirita Tours and Travel are committed to making your trips memorable, our happy clients are a testament to what we have accomplished and what we will continue to do for them. Do not hesitate to get in touch with us for any of your international and Kenyan travel needs.