GENERAL INFO

TRAVEL IDEAS

CLASSIC ITINERARIES

Classic East Africa Safari, 14 days
Classic Kenya Safari, 8 days

MORE EAST AFRICA

Climb Mt Kilimanjaro, 7 days

STAYS OF DISTINCTION

Mount Kenya Safari Club

ANIMAL CHECKLIST

When you travel with Goway, you will see lots of wildlife. Click here for your animal checklist.

Kenya

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

PASSPORTS & VISAS:

Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the period of intended stay. Visas are required by all visitors. Check with your travel agent for details.

CLIMATE:

Kenya is generally a dry country; over 75% of its area is classed as arid or semi-arid with only around 20% being viable for agriculture. Inland, rainfall and temperatures are closely related to altitude changes, with variations induced by local topography. Generally the climate is warm and humid at the coast, cool and humid in the central highlands, and hot and dry in the north and east.

Across most of the country, rainfall is strongly seasonal, although its pattern, timing and extent vary greatly from place to place and from year to year. The relatively wet coastal belt along the Indian Ocean receives 1,000 mm or more rain per year. Most rain falls from April to July as a result of the southeasterly monsoon. In much of the central highlands, the rainy seasons are in March-May and October-December.

HEALTH:

The best choice of vaccines for your trip depends on many individual factors, including your precise travel plans. Vaccines commonly recommended for travellers to Africa include those against:

Tetanus
Diphtheria
Polio
Typhoid
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Yellow fever*
Rabies
Meningitis

*Certificate required for entry into, or travel between, some African countries.

Several of these vaccines require more than one dose, or take time to become effective. Vaccine shortages also occur from time to time - particularly with yellow fever. So it is always best to seek advice on immunization well in advance, if possible around 6 weeks before departure.

WATER:

Only drink water that you know is safe. Don't drink tap water or brush your teeth with it, stick to bottled or canned drinks - well-known brands are safe. Have bottled mineral waters opened in your presence, and regard all ice as unsafe.

TIPPING:

Tipping is not mandatory in Kenya. Guides, drivers and hotel and restaurant staff should be tipped at your discretion.

ELECTRICITY:

Electricity supply is 220/240 v 50hz. Plugs are 3 point square. Don't forget to bring voltage and plug adaptors.

WHAT TO BRING AND WEAR:

For those planning a lot of travel by public transport or trekkers, a backpack is advisable. Bring a sturdy, Casual, lightweight, and comfortable clothing is usually the best. For walking safaris or game viewing on foot clothing should be of neutral colour, and white, bright or vividly patterned clothing avoided. Studies have proven that most African game animals are able to see bright blue over any other colour.

Strong footwear is advisable if you are planning to do any walking. For serious climbers and trekkers a good pair of hiking boots should be brought with you. Remember that the tropical/Equatorial sun is strong and burns quickly. Wide brimmed hats are preferable to baseball caps for sun protection. Both sunglasses and a good quality sunscreen (rated SPF15 or higher) should be used. A good quality insect repellent is worth bringing. In some areas, mostly coastal, it is considered inappropriate for women (and in some cases men) to wear shorts or short-sleeved shirts. It is always best to seek local advice. Any personal Prescription drugs should be brought if necessary. Also bring the generic names for these drugs in case they need to be replaced locally. If you have prescription glasses it is wise to bring a spare pair.

A good quality pair of Binoculars is essential for effective game viewing.

Climbers can hire equipment, ropes and gear in Kenya, but may wish to bring their own personal kit and equipment.