Across the word, the name conjures up images of adventure, game tracking and rough rides in an African jungle. However, when visiting a new place you obviously have numerous queries that you need answered. This article tries to clear up some issues and serves as a guide for any first time visitor. We hope this guide will be useful to anyone coming to Kenya.
Where is Kenya?
Kenya is located on the Eastern side of the African continent also referred to as the Horn of Africa or the Great lake Region. It borders Uganda to the west, Tanzania to the South, Somalia to the East the Sudan and Ethiopia to the north and the Indian Ocean to the South East. The equator crosses through the country and is roughly a nine hour flight from London.
Where is Kenya?
Kenya is located on the Eastern side of the African continent also referred to as the Horn of Africa or the Great lake Region. It borders Uganda to the west, Tanzania to the South, Somalia to the East the Sudan and Ethiopia to the north and the Indian Ocean to the South East. The equator crosses through the country and is roughly a nine hour flight from London.
 |
| A map of Kenya |
ABOUT KENYA
Full Name: Republic of Kenya (formerly British East Africa)
Capital: Nairobi
Independence: December 12, 1963
Time: GMT +3 hours
Population: 39.8 million (2009 census)
Area: 582,650 km2 (569,25 km2 land; 13,400 km2 water)
Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KSh)
President: Mr Mwai Kibaki
Kenyan Weather
Summer: December to March
Winter: July to August
Capital: Nairobi
Independence: December 12, 1963
Time: GMT +3 hours
Population: 39.8 million (2009 census)
Area: 582,650 km2 (569,25 km2 land; 13,400 km2 water)
Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KSh)
President: Mr Mwai Kibaki
Kenyan Weather
Summer: December to March
Winter: July to August
Language and Culture
The national language is Swahili (Kiswahili) although English is spoken throughout. Kenyans involved in the tourist trade speak English, however it is good to have a working knowledge of Swahili. In total there are 42 ethnic languages in Kenya. There are more than 70 tribal groups among the Africans in Kenya. Differences between many of them are blurred - western cultural values are becoming more deep-seated and traditional values are disintegrating. There are many other tribes in Kenya; these include Kikuyu, Luhia, Luo and Kikamba as well as a plethora of minor tribal tongues.
Public Holidays
New Year's Day January 01
Good Friday varies
Easter Monday varies
Labour Day May 01
Madaraka Day June 01
Mashujaa(Heroes) Day October 20
Jamhuri (Independence) Day December 12
Christmas Day December 25
Boxing Day December 26
Best places to tour in Kenya?
Kenya has numerous parks, reserves and culture that are sure to delight anyone on Safari.
Good Friday varies
Easter Monday varies
Labour Day May 01
Madaraka Day June 01
Mashujaa(Heroes) Day October 20
Jamhuri (Independence) Day December 12
Christmas Day December 25
Boxing Day December 26
Best places to tour in Kenya?
Kenya has numerous parks, reserves and culture that are sure to delight anyone on Safari.
Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the best in the reigion. It was nominated for one of the Great Wonders of the World due to the Great Migration of the Wildebeest and you will find all of the big five here. There is a large volume of wildlife across the Mara plains.
In Amboseli, sometimes referred to as the home of elephants, you will see the Maasai people coexisting with elephants and the snow capped Mt. Kilimanjaro in the backdrop on a clear sky.
Samburu game reserve hosts unique game and flora, only available in this area such as the gerenuk (Somali ostrich) and Grevy's Zebra)
Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks are the largest, a combined total of 21,000 km square that is home to more than 72 mammal species and over 500 different bird species. Tsavo is known for the man eating lion that terrorized railway contractors in the 1890's
The North and South Coast offer unique habitats of the Indian Ocean, as well as spectacular and ever sunny beaches.
When is the best time of year to come to Kenya?
End July, August and October are just about the best times but to see the wildebeest migration in the Maasai Mara National Reserve. It’s advisable to come around July through September, though quite expensive season due to demand. During This Period the rains are not heavy, and the weather is quite sunny.
What is the Great Migration?
Every year, thousands of wildlife embarks on their long trek from Serengeti national park into Masai Mara which is its extension to the south. Hundreds of thousands of wildebeests, Zebras and antelopes cross over Mara as they escape from the dry areas of Serengeti crossing over the Mara River in search of green pastures on the Kenyan side. Following them close by are the predators that depend on the grazers and browsers for food. This is a very spectacular and unique event that is a must see. The crocodiles lie in wait for wilderbeest in Mara River, thousands succumbing to nature by drowning in their attempt to cross Mara River. This is also a period for mating before the animals embark on there return journey to Tanzania.
Do I have a chance to interact with local people of Kenya?
Meeting and talking to local people is inevitable from the moment you get into the country. Better still for those interested in raw and undiluted culture of the local people, you can arrange to be taken to such places. On your way to the parks you will have the opportunity to see the people’s culture and traditions which vary greatly from one area to another. A visit to the cultural villages can be arranged on request if one want to learn more about their lifestyles.
Can I take my children on safari?
Children are very welcomed to accompany their parents on safari as most lodges do not have a problem with that. However there are some restrictions with some properties. You should inquire from the property booked or with your tour operator.
When is the best time of year to come to Kenya?
End July, August and October are just about the best times but to see the wildebeest migration in the Maasai Mara National Reserve. It’s advisable to come around July through September, though quite expensive season due to demand. During This Period the rains are not heavy, and the weather is quite sunny.
What is the Great Migration?
Every year, thousands of wildlife embarks on their long trek from Serengeti national park into Masai Mara which is its extension to the south. Hundreds of thousands of wildebeests, Zebras and antelopes cross over Mara as they escape from the dry areas of Serengeti crossing over the Mara River in search of green pastures on the Kenyan side. Following them close by are the predators that depend on the grazers and browsers for food. This is a very spectacular and unique event that is a must see. The crocodiles lie in wait for wilderbeest in Mara River, thousands succumbing to nature by drowning in their attempt to cross Mara River. This is also a period for mating before the animals embark on there return journey to Tanzania.
Do I have a chance to interact with local people of Kenya?
Meeting and talking to local people is inevitable from the moment you get into the country. Better still for those interested in raw and undiluted culture of the local people, you can arrange to be taken to such places. On your way to the parks you will have the opportunity to see the people’s culture and traditions which vary greatly from one area to another. A visit to the cultural villages can be arranged on request if one want to learn more about their lifestyles.
Can I take my children on safari?
Children are very welcomed to accompany their parents on safari as most lodges do not have a problem with that. However there are some restrictions with some properties. You should inquire from the property booked or with your tour operator.
Which type of accommodation is available while on safari?
Kenya has a range of accommodation options, the main ones being tents and lodges. There are mobile camps and fixed tented camps in almost all the Parks and reserves in the country. We do also have cottages and Banda’s run by the Kenya Wildlife Service. These are on self catering basis.
What clothes should I bring on safari?
It is a good idea to bring mosquito repellent, sunburn cream, a hat, sunglasses, and malaria medication. Kenyan supermarkets are quite well stocked, but it never hurts to come prepared with these essentials. However, if you are going on Safari, as you get into the highlands, it gets cooler, and during the early morning and late evenings you may need a sweater and trousers/jeans. If you are in Mombasa, it is always warm so bring shorts, short sleeves, and your swimming gear. It is also advisable to have some smart clothes. Generally in Mombasa, you will not be expected to wear a tie, but some restaurants still require long trousers and shirt sleeves. Nairobi also gets quite cold in the evenings during the rainy season, making a sweater a welcome garment. Once again, it is advisable to bring some smart clothes for the evening.
What do we eat while on Safari?
Most of the hotels and lodges serve a buffet menu served with a desert to complete your meal. Some do serve a set menu. Food in all the facilities are up to an international standard prepared by world class qualified chefs. Special dietary requirements are catered for. Please advice your tour operator at the point of booking so that the lodges can be advised. The restaurants offer selections for vegetarians, depending on their forte. With the exception of a few lodges, halaal and kosher food is not available at most camps/lodges.
Is it safe to travel to Kenya anymore?
Yes it is safe to travel to Kenya. After the post election violence that was witnessed in the first week of January, things have really changed to the better and now with the power sharing deal between President Kibaki and Hon. Raila Odinga, the situation has really improved. It is also worth noting that despite the violence, no tourist was attacked. Most safari vehicles are equipped with emergency long range radio calls. Your tour operator has the ability to change your itinerary at last minute and would certainly cancel a trip if you would be in harms way. If you have any questions at anytime regarding destinations, do not hesitate to contact the operator. Your safety and comfort in traveling to an area is our foremost concern.
Is it safe to drink tap water?
While tap water in major towns is chlorinated and relatively safe to drink, it is safer to drink sealed bottled water, available from most hotels and lodges. And also sold in the locally supermarkets. Most tour operators do provides water to their clients while on safari with a particular regard to Road safari clients.
What do we expect on a Safari?
A warm and friendly welcome by the local people, no humidity, comfortable temperatures, a high degree of comfort, a variety of delicious food and exhausting but exhilarating days. An average day begins at dawn with tea and a sunrise game drive. Back to the lodge for a wonderful breakfast with fresh baked breads, local coffee, and your choice of entrée. During the heat of the day when the wildlife is at rest you too may wish to relax around the pool for the lodges that have pools. In the afternoon when the wildlife again comes alive go out on an afternoon game drive. In certain areas full day game drives, a bush walk, night drive or other activity may be planned. In the evening, everyone gathers to exchange stories of the bush while enjoying beverages. Retire early, as tomorrow will bring…well we just don’t know but we can assure you it will be exciting!
What photography advice can you give?
A good camera will make the difference between having photos of spectacular wildlife and having vague, little dots of animals to show family and friends. The more common "point-and-shoot" cameras are too small. On safari, you won't always be able to get up close to wildlife. A SLR (single lens reflex) camera with a 200-300mm lens is recommended. More serious photographers may choose telephoto lenses of 400 or 500mm. Larger lenses often require a tripod, which cannot be used on a moving vehicle. A 2x teleconverter is useful for doubling the focal length of your lens. A zoom lens, such as a 70 to 210 mm lens, is probably the best option for shooting a moving subject. The harsh African sun provides excellent lighting, but using larger lenses will require faster film, especially in early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer. In this case, 200-400 ASA film is recommended.
Film and batteries are usually available along major tourist routes and from lodges, but it is wise to bring your own. A lens hood and ultra violet filter are advisable. A good bag for your equipment including a dust cover (plastic bag) is essential. Important Note: Not all African cultures are familiar with cameras. Rural folk will often shy away from having their picture taken. Please be sensitive. Some locals may ask a fee for having their photograph taken. It is recommended you avoid photographing anything relating to government and military installations, including personnel (soldiers and police) and buildings (post offices, banks, airports, border posts, railway stations and bridges.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
Border Posts:
The major crossing point between Kenya and Tanzania is at Namanga, which is open 24 hours a day. Other crossings include Lunga Lunga and Taveta. The Ethiopian border post of Moyale is becoming increasingly dangerous because of civil fighting.The border was closed for a while but has now reopened. For those with four-wheel drive vehicles, a more adventurous route to the west near Lake Turkana is quite popular. Ask the locals for advice before trying this route. There is no border post on either side of the border crossing so you'll have to get your visa stamped in Nairobi. Malaba and Busimia are the main Ugandan border posts. At present there are no overland crossings with Somalia and Sudan as it is not safe to cross unless part of a refugee convoy.
Rail and Bus
Rail is a safe, reliable form of public transport. Passenger services run from Mombasa to Malaba via Voi, Nairobi, Nakuru and Eldoret. It is essential to book tickets two to three days in advance. Kenya has a good network of buses, as well as matatus (minibuses) and share-taxis, but none are very safe as drivers tend to overload and speed, and horrific accidents are reported regularly. Where possible, rail travel should be the chosen means of transport. Private 18-seater buses offer shuttle services connecting Nairobi and Mombasa with Arusha and Moshi in Tanzania, which are more expensive, but more comfortable and safer.
Airports
Domestic air services operate between the major airports:
Jomo Kenyatta International, Nairobi (NBO)
Moi International, Mombasa (MBA)
Note that departure tax (US$20) is paid when you leave. For local flights this is KSh100 and US$20 for international flights (not payable in KSh). A number of airlines operate between Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nanyuki, Malindi, Lamu and the national parks/reserves of Amboseli, Masai Mara and Samburu.
Roads
There are 63,800 km of highways in Kenya, 8,863 km of which are paved. Roads are generally in good condition, but have deteriorated and some stretches are very unsafe. The A104 running from Mombasa to Malaba via Nairobi is a heavy truck route. High speed and unpredictable local driving habits are daily hazards on Kenyan roads. Roads in the north and north-east are predominantly dirt roads and in the rainy season are only navigable by four-wheel drive vehicles. Your national driving license is accepted, with an English translation if necessary. Driving is on the left side of the road. As fuel shortages can occur, it is best to fill your tanks before leaving a major town.
Passports and Visas
This is a guide only - please check with your nearest Kenyan Consulate for up to date information. All visitors are required to carry a passport that is valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay. There should be sufficient blank pages for entry stamps upon arrival.
Nationals of the following countries do not require visas for a tourist stay of 30 days or less:
South Africa, Switzerland, Belgium, France, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Germany, Spain, Italy, Austria, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, United States and Canada
Nationals of some countries may obtain visas upon arrival. Check with the Kenyan Consulate beforehand. Those wishing to enter Kenya on business or for longer than 30 days, should obtain a visa from their nearest Kenyan Consulate.
Requirements for this are:
visa application form
business letter (for business visa)
one passport photograph
proof of sufficient funds and onward travel / return ticket
Visas cost about US$30 and are valid for three months. All visitors may be requested to show proof of sufficient funds and onward travel / return ticket.
Health and Requirements
Everyone entering Kenya must be in possession of a valid International Certificate of Vaccination against yellow fever. It is imperative that you obtain malaria prophylactics before entering Kenya. When purchasing these, please tell your doctor or pharmacist that you intend visiting Kenya. It is important to note that the Kenyan authorities have banned the use of chloroquine combinations as prophylaxis, and instead recommend the use of either mefloquine (Lariam/Mefliam) or doxycycline. Start your course at least one week before entering Kenya and continue taking the pills for six weeks after leaving the country. If you suffer from side effects, try taking your malaria prophylactics at night, after dinner. Precautionary measures that you can take to prevent contact with mosquitoes are: sleeping under a bed net or in room/tent with mosquito proofing (remember to keep the flaps zipped at all times), spraying your accommodation with insecticide, making use of a mosquito repelling lotion or stick and wearing long sleeve clothes, trousers and socks when outside at night. Immunisation against typhoid, tetanus, tuberculosis, polio, & meningococcal meningitis are recommended.
Border Posts:
The major crossing point between Kenya and Tanzania is at Namanga, which is open 24 hours a day. Other crossings include Lunga Lunga and Taveta. The Ethiopian border post of Moyale is becoming increasingly dangerous because of civil fighting.The border was closed for a while but has now reopened. For those with four-wheel drive vehicles, a more adventurous route to the west near Lake Turkana is quite popular. Ask the locals for advice before trying this route. There is no border post on either side of the border crossing so you'll have to get your visa stamped in Nairobi. Malaba and Busimia are the main Ugandan border posts. At present there are no overland crossings with Somalia and Sudan as it is not safe to cross unless part of a refugee convoy.
Rail and Bus
Rail is a safe, reliable form of public transport. Passenger services run from Mombasa to Malaba via Voi, Nairobi, Nakuru and Eldoret. It is essential to book tickets two to three days in advance. Kenya has a good network of buses, as well as matatus (minibuses) and share-taxis, but none are very safe as drivers tend to overload and speed, and horrific accidents are reported regularly. Where possible, rail travel should be the chosen means of transport. Private 18-seater buses offer shuttle services connecting Nairobi and Mombasa with Arusha and Moshi in Tanzania, which are more expensive, but more comfortable and safer.
Airports
Domestic air services operate between the major airports:
Jomo Kenyatta International, Nairobi (NBO)
Moi International, Mombasa (MBA)
Note that departure tax (US$20) is paid when you leave. For local flights this is KSh100 and US$20 for international flights (not payable in KSh). A number of airlines operate between Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nanyuki, Malindi, Lamu and the national parks/reserves of Amboseli, Masai Mara and Samburu.
Roads
There are 63,800 km of highways in Kenya, 8,863 km of which are paved. Roads are generally in good condition, but have deteriorated and some stretches are very unsafe. The A104 running from Mombasa to Malaba via Nairobi is a heavy truck route. High speed and unpredictable local driving habits are daily hazards on Kenyan roads. Roads in the north and north-east are predominantly dirt roads and in the rainy season are only navigable by four-wheel drive vehicles. Your national driving license is accepted, with an English translation if necessary. Driving is on the left side of the road. As fuel shortages can occur, it is best to fill your tanks before leaving a major town.
Passports and Visas
This is a guide only - please check with your nearest Kenyan Consulate for up to date information. All visitors are required to carry a passport that is valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay. There should be sufficient blank pages for entry stamps upon arrival.
Nationals of the following countries do not require visas for a tourist stay of 30 days or less:
South Africa, Switzerland, Belgium, France, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Germany, Spain, Italy, Austria, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, United States and Canada
Nationals of some countries may obtain visas upon arrival. Check with the Kenyan Consulate beforehand. Those wishing to enter Kenya on business or for longer than 30 days, should obtain a visa from their nearest Kenyan Consulate.
Requirements for this are:
visa application form
business letter (for business visa)
one passport photograph
proof of sufficient funds and onward travel / return ticket
Visas cost about US$30 and are valid for three months. All visitors may be requested to show proof of sufficient funds and onward travel / return ticket.
Health and Requirements
Everyone entering Kenya must be in possession of a valid International Certificate of Vaccination against yellow fever. It is imperative that you obtain malaria prophylactics before entering Kenya. When purchasing these, please tell your doctor or pharmacist that you intend visiting Kenya. It is important to note that the Kenyan authorities have banned the use of chloroquine combinations as prophylaxis, and instead recommend the use of either mefloquine (Lariam/Mefliam) or doxycycline. Start your course at least one week before entering Kenya and continue taking the pills for six weeks after leaving the country. If you suffer from side effects, try taking your malaria prophylactics at night, after dinner. Precautionary measures that you can take to prevent contact with mosquitoes are: sleeping under a bed net or in room/tent with mosquito proofing (remember to keep the flaps zipped at all times), spraying your accommodation with insecticide, making use of a mosquito repelling lotion or stick and wearing long sleeve clothes, trousers and socks when outside at night. Immunisation against typhoid, tetanus, tuberculosis, polio, & meningococcal meningitis are recommended.
Medical Services
Medical services in Kenya are good in urban areas and in the vicinity of game parks and beaches, but are limited elsewhere. Doctors and hospitals often require immediate cash payment, but usually accept major credit cards. It is advisable to secure medical cover on your medical insurance before arriving in the country. Note that major hotels have contracts with physicians and dentists. Visitors are however advised to bring along supplies of specialised medication they may require. Otherwise, medicine may be purchased at pharmacies and emergency pharmacies are open all night.
Medical services in Kenya are good in urban areas and in the vicinity of game parks and beaches, but are limited elsewhere. Doctors and hospitals often require immediate cash payment, but usually accept major credit cards. It is advisable to secure medical cover on your medical insurance before arriving in the country. Note that major hotels have contracts with physicians and dentists. Visitors are however advised to bring along supplies of specialised medication they may require. Otherwise, medicine may be purchased at pharmacies and emergency pharmacies are open all night.
TRAVEL TIPS
Safety
Travel in Kenya is generally entirely safe, however, there are the occasional regional ethnic skirmishes. You are advised to remain informed as to the situation in areas to which you plan to travel, particularly remote parts and borders. Ugandan, Somalian and Sudanese shifta (bandits) rove their borders with Kenya. Violent cross-border attacks and cattle raids occur, so it is best to avoid the border regions. Border crossings into Somalia and Sudan are strongly discouraged. Petty crime and theft occurs in some of the urban areas, so be vigilant and keep valuables concealed. Security within the parks is quite good, but never leave possessions unattended. It is always better to travel in a large group.
Water
While water in major towns is chlorinated and relatively safe to drink, there are frequent breakdowns and this can lead to mild to serious abdominal upsets for first time African travellers. Rather stick to sealed bottled water, which is available from most hotels and lodges, and which is highly advised for the first few weeks of your stay. Do not use ice cubes or eat rare meat, raw seafood or dairy products. Avoid roadside stands and street vendors and only eat well-cooked foods while they are still hot and fruits that can be peeled without contamination.
Currency
The unit of currency is the Kenya Shilling (KSh), which is divided into 100 cents. Notes are in KSh1000, 500, 200, 100, 50, and 20. Coins are KSH 1, 5, 10, 20 and Cents 50, 10, 5.
Exchange Rate
The exchange rate is in your favour. Generally, you will find that fine cuisine, wine and entertainment cost a fraction of the tariff charged by equivalent establishments elsewhere in the world. The price of a beer starts at KSh80, but entertainment spots usually hike that price up to about KSh150. A traditional meal will cost about KSh150, while you can expect to pay about KSh700-1500 for a more classy meal. Petrol costs about KSh90 per litre. A roll of 36-exposure print film will cost about KSh280.
Banks
Banking Hours
Monday through Friday – 09.00hrs to 115.00hrs
1st and last Saturday of the month - 09.00 to 12.00 hrs
Forex bureaus in the cities open from 08.00hrs to 1600hrs Monday to Friday
Saturday 0900hrs to 01.00hrs
National and international banks have branches in Mombasa, Nairobi, Kisumu, Thika, Eldoret, Kericho and Nyeri and in most other major towns. Banks in Mombasa and the coastal areas open and close half an hour earlier. Banks and bureaux de change at international airports are open 24 hours a day
Safety
Travel in Kenya is generally entirely safe, however, there are the occasional regional ethnic skirmishes. You are advised to remain informed as to the situation in areas to which you plan to travel, particularly remote parts and borders. Ugandan, Somalian and Sudanese shifta (bandits) rove their borders with Kenya. Violent cross-border attacks and cattle raids occur, so it is best to avoid the border regions. Border crossings into Somalia and Sudan are strongly discouraged. Petty crime and theft occurs in some of the urban areas, so be vigilant and keep valuables concealed. Security within the parks is quite good, but never leave possessions unattended. It is always better to travel in a large group.
Water
While water in major towns is chlorinated and relatively safe to drink, there are frequent breakdowns and this can lead to mild to serious abdominal upsets for first time African travellers. Rather stick to sealed bottled water, which is available from most hotels and lodges, and which is highly advised for the first few weeks of your stay. Do not use ice cubes or eat rare meat, raw seafood or dairy products. Avoid roadside stands and street vendors and only eat well-cooked foods while they are still hot and fruits that can be peeled without contamination.
Currency
The unit of currency is the Kenya Shilling (KSh), which is divided into 100 cents. Notes are in KSh1000, 500, 200, 100, 50, and 20. Coins are KSH 1, 5, 10, 20 and Cents 50, 10, 5.
Exchange Rate
The exchange rate is in your favour. Generally, you will find that fine cuisine, wine and entertainment cost a fraction of the tariff charged by equivalent establishments elsewhere in the world. The price of a beer starts at KSh80, but entertainment spots usually hike that price up to about KSh150. A traditional meal will cost about KSh150, while you can expect to pay about KSh700-1500 for a more classy meal. Petrol costs about KSh90 per litre. A roll of 36-exposure print film will cost about KSh280.
Banks
Banking Hours
Monday through Friday – 09.00hrs to 115.00hrs
1st and last Saturday of the month - 09.00 to 12.00 hrs
Forex bureaus in the cities open from 08.00hrs to 1600hrs Monday to Friday
Saturday 0900hrs to 01.00hrs
National and international banks have branches in Mombasa, Nairobi, Kisumu, Thika, Eldoret, Kericho and Nyeri and in most other major towns. Banks in Mombasa and the coastal areas open and close half an hour earlier. Banks and bureaux de change at international airports are open 24 hours a day
Credit Cards
All major credit cards (Mastercard, Visa, Diners Club and American Express) are widely accepted.
Tipping
This is not required but, unlike in some other African countries, is not forbidden either. Most hotels include a 10% service charge on the bill. If the service charge has not been included a KSh100 tip is usual, although the amount is entirely at the visitor's discretion. Bear in mind that salaries in East Africa tend to be very low, and that people working in service industries rely on tips to supplement their wages. On safari you should tip your driver, cook and guide. These people do not earn very much so you should tip as much as you feel you can, about KSh150 per employee per day is about right, but of course this depends on you and how happy you were with your service.
Souvenirs
As in most African countries, there is a huge range of cheap souvenirs to be purchased along the roadside. These are handmade, but mass produced so always check the quality before buying. Materials include ebony, soapstone and ivory. Note that it is illegal to export products that contain any elements of elephant, rhino or sea turtle. Tribal souvenirs are available, including Maasai beaded jewellery, kiondos (woven sisal baskets) and natural or decorated calabashes (dried gourds). Bright sarongs (kangas or kikois) make good wearable souvenirs. If you are after quality artwork, it is probably wisest to look in galleries and shops that deal in it, rather than buying on the black market.
All major credit cards (Mastercard, Visa, Diners Club and American Express) are widely accepted.
Tipping
This is not required but, unlike in some other African countries, is not forbidden either. Most hotels include a 10% service charge on the bill. If the service charge has not been included a KSh100 tip is usual, although the amount is entirely at the visitor's discretion. Bear in mind that salaries in East Africa tend to be very low, and that people working in service industries rely on tips to supplement their wages. On safari you should tip your driver, cook and guide. These people do not earn very much so you should tip as much as you feel you can, about KSh150 per employee per day is about right, but of course this depends on you and how happy you were with your service.
Souvenirs
As in most African countries, there is a huge range of cheap souvenirs to be purchased along the roadside. These are handmade, but mass produced so always check the quality before buying. Materials include ebony, soapstone and ivory. Note that it is illegal to export products that contain any elements of elephant, rhino or sea turtle. Tribal souvenirs are available, including Maasai beaded jewellery, kiondos (woven sisal baskets) and natural or decorated calabashes (dried gourds). Bright sarongs (kangas or kikois) make good wearable souvenirs. If you are after quality artwork, it is probably wisest to look in galleries and shops that deal in it, rather than buying on the black market.
The information on this page is adapted from the forum posts of greekcypriot and lilash on travelpod.com
Follow these links the see those posts:
http://www.travelpod.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=80021 (greekcypriot)
Tweet |
