Kenya-East Africa
Visitor Information
Climate | Latest Travel Advice | Visas & Immigration | Money | Local Time | Getting Around | Car Hire | Public Holidays | Electrical Power | Travel Insurance
Introduction
Kenya lies astride the equator on the eastern coast of Africa. Kenya is bordered in the north by Sudan and Ethiopia, in the east by Somalia, on the southeast by the Indian Ocean, on the southwest by Tanzania and to the west by Lake Victoria and Uganda.
Kenya is notable for its' geographical variety. The low-lying, fertile coastal region, fringed with coral reefs and islands, is back by a gradually rising coastal plain, a dry region covered with savanna and thornbush.
At an altitude of about 1,524 m and 300 miles inland, the plain gives way in the southwest to a high plateau, rising in parts to 3,048 m, in which about 85% of the population and the majority of economic enterprise are concentrated. The northern section of Kenya, forming three-fifths of the whole territory, is arid and of semidesert character, as is the bulk of the southeastern quarter. In the high plateau area, known as the Kenya Highlands, lie Mt. Kenya (5,200 m), Mt Elgon (4,322m) and the Aberdare Ranger (rising to over 3,963 m). The plateau is bisected from north to south by the Rift Valley, part of the great geological fracture that can be traced from Syria through the Red Sea and East Africa to Mozambique. In the north of Kenya, the valley is broad and shallow, embracing Lake Turkana (160 miles long), while further south it narrows and deepens and is walled by escarpments 610 to 930 mtr high. West of the Rift Valley, the plateau descends to the plains that border Lake Victoria. The principal rivers are the Tana and the Athi, flowing southeast to the Indian Ocean, the Ewaso Ngiro flowing northeast to the swamps of the Lorian Plain, and the Nzoia, Yala and Gori, which drain eastward into Lake Victoria. Low plains rise to central highlands, divided by the Great African Rift Valley.
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Click to view prices and make reservationCLIMATE
The climate of Kenya is as varied as its physical structure. Climatic conditions vary from the tropical humidity of the coast, through the dry heat of the hinterland and northern plains, to the cool air of the plateau and mountains. Despite Kenya's equatorial position, Mt. Kenya is perpetually snow-capped. The coastal temperature averages 27°C (80°F), and the temperature decreases by slightly less than 2°C (3°F) with each 1,000 ft (305 m) increase in altitude. The capital, Nairobi, at 1,675 m, has a mean annual temperature of 19°C. The arid plains vary from 21°C to 27°C (70°F to 80°F). Seasonal variations are distinguished by duration of rainfall rather than changes of temperature; most regions of the country have two rainy seasons, the long rains falling between April and June, and the short rains between October and December. Average annual rainfall varies from 5 inches a year in the most arid regions of the northern plains to 70 inches a year near Lake Victoria. The coast and highland areas have an average of 40 inches per year.
Climate Chart for Nairobi
Climate Chart for Mombasa
For today's weather forecast see CNN - Africa Weather Forecasts
LATEST TRAVEL ADVICE
Foreign & Commonwealth Office (London)
US State Department - Travel Warnings
VISAS & IMMIGRATION
All incoming visitors to Kenya (except East African Citizens) will now require a visa, irrespective of nationality. Citizens of the following countries need to have a visa prior to arrival in Kenya: Afghanistan, Somali, Iran, Lebanon, Iraq, Syria, Libya, Mali, Sudan, Nigeria, Yemen, Cameroon, Pakistan, North Korea, Stateless Persons, Armenia, Georgia, Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, Senegal
Visa requirements often change. We advise you to check with your local Kenyan Embassy or Consulate for the latest visa requirements.
Listing of Kenyan Tourist offices and/or embassies located around the world
MONEY
Currency: 1 Kenyan shilling=100 cents
Current Exchange Rate: Today's Exchange Rate
All the major Credit cards are widely accepted, as are travellers cheques which can be changed in any bank. Bear in mind they have varying commission charges.
Banking hours
Banks: Monday to Friday: 09:00-14:00 (16:30 in the major cities). The airport banks are open until midnight every day.
Location of Visa ATM's
Barclays Bank Cash Machine Locations
LOCAL TIME
Kenya is 3 hours ahead of GMT
Air / flights:
International Flights
Regional flights from Kenya throughout Africa
Click for flights from Europe with Air France
Click for flights from Europe with KLM
Click for flights from Europe with BA.com
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights within Kenya departing Nairobi and Mombasa
Train:
Kenya has an efficient and comfortable rail service connecting Nairobi to Mombasa, Kisumu and Malaba,. The overnight Nairobi-Mombasa service offers first and second class options but it is popular and for most of the time you need to book in advanceBus:
A wide network of buses runs throughout the country connecting almost every town. It is cheaper to travel by bus than train and often quicker but sometimes crowded.
Matatus are a common form of mini-bus, but they are packed and are often involved in accidents. and are best avoided if possible
Scandinavia Express Services
Cross border Bus Service between Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia
Kenya has an extensive network of roads, mostly sealed and passable throughout the year. You may have problems on unsealed roads, particular in the game reserves, during the rains if you don't have 4 wheel drive.
Driving is on the left hand side and although not required it is convenient for you to have an International Driving Licence. You can drive on your own valid licence but you need to get it endorsed at the Road Transport Office in Nairobi.
As well as all the major international car hire firms, there are numerous local ones as well and it is worth shopping around for the best deal. Always compare the inclusive insurance. Most companies require renters to be over 23 years of age and under 70 and must have held a licence for at least 2 years.
Most reputable car hire firms are members of the Automobile Association of East Africa and have road patrols on the major highways. Nearly all lodges in the Parks have resident mechanics.
Click to Rent a car in Kenya
1st January
New Years' Day
1st May
Labour Day
1st June
11th June
Kanu Day
10th October
Moi Day
20th October
Kenyetta Day
12th December
Independence Day
25th December
Christmas Day
26th December
Boxing Day
Moveable holidays
Good Friday and Easter Monday and variable Muslim holidays
Electric Power is 240V running at 50Hz. The Plug types used are :
Rectangular blade plug - view
TRAVEL INSURANCE
If you need medical care whilst in Kenya, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not accept payment through your insurance company. In these circumstances you will have to pay in full after your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a credit card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's local embassy or representative.
To be compensated you must be treated by licensed medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper documentation and receipts.
It is advisable to always ensure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your home country.
