Kenya offers breathtaking safaris, vibrant cultures, and scenic landscapes—from the plains of the Maasai Mara to the shores of Lake Naivasha. To make your trip smooth, safe, and memorable, here are essential travel tips every Indian tourist should know before visiting this East African gem.
1. Entry Requirements & Visa
Why read this: Knowing visa rules and documents saves time and avoids last-minute surprises.
Do: Apply for your eVisa through the official Kenyan immigration website before you travel.
Don’t: Wait until arrival—Kenya does not offer visas on arrival for Indian citizens.
Final tip: Keep printed copies of your eVisa and return ticket handy during immigration.
2. Currency & Payments
Why read this: Understanding money usage helps you avoid being overcharged or scammed.
Do: Use Kenyan Shillings (KES) for local purchases; carry small change for markets.
Don’t: Rely only on cards—many areas, especially rural, are cash-only.
Final tip: Use M-Pesa (mobile money) if staying longer; it's widely accepted and safe.
3. Safety & Health Precautions
Why read this: Staying healthy and safe ensures you enjoy every moment of your trip.
Do: Drink bottled water and carry mosquito repellent, especially in safari regions.
Don’t: Walk alone at night in unknown areas, especially in big cities like Nairobi.
Final tip: Get a yellow fever vaccination and carry your certificate—it’s often checked at immigration.
4. Transport & Getting Around
Why read this: Navigating the country becomes easy when you know your options.
Do: Use registered taxis, safari vans, or reputable ride apps like Uber and Bolt.
Don’t: Board random matatus (local minibuses) unless you’re with a local guide.
Final tip: Pre-book airport transfers and safari transport for smoother travel.
5. Safari Etiquette
Why read this: Respecting wildlife and guides ensures a safe and fulfilling safari.
Do: Stay inside the vehicle during game drives and listen to your guide's instructions.
Don’t: Play loud music, feed animals, or shout during sightings.
Final tip: Bring binoculars, a good camera, and wear neutral-coloured clothing.
6. Food & Dietary Preferences
Why read this: Knowing what to expect helps you find food you'll love.
Do: Try local Kenyan dishes like chapati, ugali, and nyama choma.
Don’t: Expect Indian food everywhere—carry ready-to-eat meals or masalas if needed.
Final tip: Indian restaurants are available in Nairobi and Mombasa, but rare in safari towns.
7. Cultural Sensitivity
Why read this: Respect for local customs makes your trip more meaningful.
Do: Greet locals with a smile, and ask before photographing people.
Don’t: Wear revealing clothes in rural or religious areas.
Final tip: Learning a few Swahili words like “Jambo” (hello) goes a long way.
8. Connectivity & SIM Cards
Why read this: Staying connected helps with maps, bookings, and communication.
Do: Buy a local SIM (like Safaricom or Airtel) at the airport or in town.
Don’t: Depend on Wi-Fi—it’s patchy in remote areas and parks.
Final tip: Get a data plan with enough GBs if you plan to post or navigate often.
9. Shopping & Bargaining
Why read this: Shopping is fun when you know the tricks.
Do: Bargain politely in markets—prices are usually inflated for tourists.
Don’t: Pay upfront without checking the quality of items.
Final tip: Look for handmade crafts at Maasai markets—they make great souvenirs.
10. Time Zone & Local Life
Why read this: Adjusting your routine makes travel smoother.
Do: Kenya is GMT+3—plan your safari and transfers accordingly.
Don’t: Expect things to run exactly on time; “African time” is often relaxed.
Final tip: Embrace the pace—slow down and soak in the experience.
