KENYA FAQs
Kenya is located in East Africa, bordered by the Indian Ocean to the southeast, Tanzania to the south, Uganda to the west, South Sudan to the northwest, Ethiopia to the north, and Somalia to the northeast. Strategically positioned along the equator, Kenya's diverse landscapes range from coastal plains and savannahs to highlands and the Great Rift Valley. Its central location makes it a key gateway to the region's rich natural and cultural attractions. At Mateys Wild Tours, we are ready to guide you through Kenya's remarkable destinations, ensuring an unforgettable journey.
To reach Kenya, most international travelers fly into one of the country's main airports: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa, or Kisumu International Airport (KIS) in Kisumu. These airports are well-connected to major cities worldwide, making access to Kenya convenient and straightforward. Upon arrival, Mateys Wild Tours can arrange seamless transfers and travel logistics to ensure your journey through Kenya begins smoothly and comfortably.
Kenya operates on East Africa Time (EAT), which is UTC+3. This time zone remains consistent throughout the year, as Kenya does not observe daylight saving time. For precise current local time, we recommend checking a reliable world clock or time zone converter. Should you require further assistance with time-related queries for your travel plans, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
Yes, English is one of the official languages of Kenya and is widely spoken throughout the country. It is commonly used in government, education, and business, and is also frequently used in tourism settings. Visitors will find that English is well understood by most locals, making communication smooth and efficient. At Mateys Wild Tours, we ensure that your experience is seamless and enjoyable, with language barriers being minimal.
Planning your trip to Kenya involves several key steps to ensure a seamless and enriching experience. Begin by determining the best time to visit, considering factors like wildlife migrations and weather conditions. Next, identify your interests—whether it’s safaris, cultural experiences, or coastal relaxation—and select destinations that align with these preferences. Secure necessary travel documents, including visas and vaccinations, and arrange your accommodations and transport. Engaging a reputable tour operator, like Mateys Wild Tours, can provide expert guidance and personalized itineraries, ensuring your trip is well-organized and unforgettable. We are here to assist you every step of the way to make your Kenyan adventure extraordinary.
Yes, a visa is required to enter Kenya. Travelers from visa-exempt countries such as Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brunei, Burundi, Cyprus, Dominica, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gambia, Ghana, Grenada, Jamaica, Kiribati, Lesotho Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Namibia, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, St Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia, Saint Vincent & Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Salomon Islands, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Tonga, Trinidad & Tobago, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zambia and Zimbabwe they don’t need VISA to Visit Kenya.
Nationalities NOT eligible for online e-Visa: nationals of these countries must obtain their visa in the embassy: Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Cameroon, Eritrea, Iraq, North Korea, Kosovo, Lebanon, Libya, Mali, Palestine, Senegal, Somalia, Syria, Tajikistan and Yemen.
Nationalities subject to visa and eligible for e-Visa online: citizens of all other nationalities can obtain their visa online (e-Visa), in embassies, or on arrival.
Types of VISAS
Single journey visa: it is the typical visa to go to Kenya punctually for a tourist, professional, or family visit. It allows one to enter once in the country for a maximum duration of 90 days. The date of your trip must start no more than 3 months after the issuance of your visa. The fee for a single-entry visa is US$ 51.
Multiple entry visa: this type of visa is granted for several trips to Kenya. It is especially suitable for those who wish to travel several times in the country over a short period or for tourists who wish to make excursions to neighboring countries before returning to Kenya. The fee is US$ 101.
East Africa Tourist Visa: this visa, issued by a convention between three countries, allows a single visa to travel to Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya. This is a multiple-entry visa valid for a maximum stay of 90 days. It costs US$ 101 and can be obtained at the embassies of Kenya if you start your trip in Kenya, of Uganda if you start your trip in Uganda, or online on the Rwanda e-visa website if you start your trip in Rwanda. Read More about Kenya VISA here
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for your trip to Kenya. It provides essential coverage for unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen belongings. Ensuring that you have comprehensive travel insurance will help safeguard your journey and give you peace of mind. If you need any assistance with arranging this, Mateys Wild Tours is ready to help you with all the necessary details.
Kenya's weather is diverse, reflecting its varied landscapes. Generally, the climate is warm and temperate, with coastal regions experiencing a hot, humid climate and highlands offering cooler temperatures. The country has two main rainy seasons: the long rains from April to June and the short rains from October to December. The dry seasons, from July to September and January to March, offer optimal conditions for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. At Mateys Wild Tours, we can help you plan your visit to Kenya based on your preferred weather and travel interests.
Kenya experiences two primary seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, typically from June to October and January to March, is characterized by warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for wildlife viewing. The rainy season, occurring from April to May and November to December, brings cooler temperatures and intermittent showers, contributing to lush landscapes and vibrant flora. Each season offers unique advantages for travelers, and we at Mateys Wild Tours are here to help you choose the best time to visit based on your interests and preferences.
Kenya’s prime travel seasons are typically during the dry periods from June to October and January to March. These months offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities, as animals are more concentrated around water sources and the vegetation is less dense. Additionally, this is when the Great Migration often occurs, providing spectacular scenes in the Masai Mara. The wet seasons, from April to May and November to December, bring lush landscapes and fewer crowds, making it a great time for birdwatching and a more tranquil experience.
When going on a safari in Kenya, it's advisable to wear neutral, earthy colors such as khaki, beige, and olive green. These colors blend well with the natural environment and help you avoid attracting unwanted attention from wildlife. Bright colors and dark hues should be avoided as they can either startle animals or attract insects. Comfortable, lightweight clothing that offers sun protection and is suitable for layering is also recommended. Our team at Mateys Wild Tours is here to assist you in preparing for your safari with expert advice on suitable attire and gear.
Kenya is generally a safe and welcoming destination for travelers, with many regions offering secure and enjoyable experiences. Tourist areas, national parks, and major cities are well-policed and have established safety protocols. As with any travel, it is advisable to follow local guidelines, stay informed about current conditions, and exercise standard precautions to ensure a smooth and memorable visit. At Mateys Wild Tours, we are committed to providing you with up-to-date information and support to help you enjoy your journey safely.
Political tensions can run high in Kenya While it is unlikely, that you’ll encounter political violence, stay connected to local news to be aware of current situations while in the country. Avoid protests and demonstrations should any take place, as they run the risk of turning volatile or violent. It’s best not to travel during a general election as well, to play it safe.
In Kenya, the emergency number for police, fire, and medical services is 999. Additionally, you can reach the police through 112 or 911, and fire and ambulance services are also available via 999. For effective assistance, provide clear and precise information about the emergency and your location.
Motorcycles are a popular and efficient way to navigate Nairobi’s traffic, but be aware of the challenging road conditions and traffic chaos. It's crucial to wear a helmet for safety, as accidents can occur. For safari and city tours, always fasten your seatbelt and follow your guide's instructions. If you opt to ride motorcycles, ensure you have travel insurance and adhere to its requirements, including wearing a helmet and having the necessary riding licenses.
Despite the government laws against LGBTQ+ relationships, Nairobi has a fairly prominent LGBTQ+ community. Areas outside of Nairobi are much more conservative and traditional but coming across LGBTQ+ events and parties is not uncommon
