Below is some useful travel information to help you plan your safari holiday tour of Kenya. If you have any additional questions or require further details not covered here, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Leisureway Adventures team.
Starting from 1st January 2024, travelers to Kenya will no longer need a visa. Instead, they will apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). The ETA system has replaced the eVisa system and is now in effect.
Visit www.etakenya.go.ke to use the streamlined new system, which is operational from 4th January 2024. This applies to all international travelers, including children. Kenyan citizens and residents of East African Community (EAC) partner states are exempt.
Travelers can apply for the ETA up to 3 months in advance of their journey. It is advisable to apply as soon as your flight tickets and accommodations/tour packages are confirmed in Kenya.
After submission, you’ll receive an email notification confirming the status of your application. Upon approval, you will receive an ETA receipt with a reference number, which can be used to track your application on the ETA website.
Processing Time: Generally, it takes 3 working days for your ETA to be processed.
Application Steps:
What to Do If Your eTA is Denied: If your eTA is denied, you cannot travel at this time. Contact support@etakenya.go.ke for assistance.
Do Children Need an eTA? Yes, all foreign visitors, including children, must apply for an eTA. Legal guardians, parents, or accompanying adults should submit the application for minors.
Most major roads in Kenya are tarred, though conditions may vary based on location and weather. Roads within national parks and reserves are usually navigable, but driving times can vary depending on traffic and road conditions.
Major credit cards (MasterCard, Visa, American Express) are widely accepted in Kenya. It’s also recommended to carry cash in USD, as it is accepted in many locations and can be exchanged easily for Kenyan shillings.
Consult with a healthcare provider or licensed vaccination clinic well ahead of your travel to Kenya.
The safari accommodations, including hotels, lodges, and tented camps, are carefully selected for comfort and luxury, ranging from economy to superior options. They blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape and offer the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.
It is advised to avoid drinking tap water. Bottled drinking water will be provided on your safari vehicle. Soft drinks, beers, and other beverages are available for purchase at lodges and camps.
We recommend splitting your packing between you and your travel companion’s luggage to avoid any potential loss. Essential items like your passport, tickets, medications, and prescriptions should be carried in your hand luggage. Avoid using plastic bags, as they are prohibited in Kenya.
For wildlife and landscape photography, a DSLR camera with interchangeable lenses is recommended. A telephoto lens (200–400mm) is great for wildlife shots, while a wider angle lens (24–100mm) works well for landscapes. Ensure you bring plenty of batteries, memory cards, and a cleaning kit, as dust can quickly accumulate on your gear.
Safaris can be enjoyed year-round in Kenya, but the peak season is from July to October, during the wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara. The rainy season (April–May) brings lush greenery, offering a different but equally rewarding experience.
Pack lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for the warm climate, but also bring a jacket for cooler mornings and evenings. Neutral colors are preferred to avoid attracting insects.
The Kenyan shilling (KES) is the local currency. It’s easiest to exchange money at the airport or forex bureaus in Nairobi for the best rates. USD, Euro, and GBP are accepted in many locations.
Kenya allows travelers to bring in one bottle of spirits, 200 cigarettes, a reasonable amount of camera equipment, and personal electronics duty-free.
Your safari guide/driver will be an essential part of your experience, providing insights into Kenya’s wildlife, culture, and geography. Each guide is a local expert with extensive knowledge of Kenya’s flora, fauna, and history.
Our experienced guides will pick you up from your hotel or airport and transport you to your safari destination in a comfortable vehicle with guaranteed window seats for the best views. Safari vehicles are designed for comfort during long drives, and each seat is equipped with a roof hatch for enhanced wildlife viewing.
For further details on booking terms, including inclusions and exclusions, please refer to the official booking terms provided by Leisureway Adventures.
