FAQ

When is the best time to visit Kenya?

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Kenya can be visited practically year-round, except during the rainy season, which typically falls in May and June. However, due to recent climate changes, these dates can shift unpredictably, just like winter in Poland 😉

Temperatures are lowest in July-August (averaging 18°C around Nairobi and 24°C on the coast) and highest in December and January (averaging 25°C around Nairobi and 28°C on the coast).

One of the main attractions, the Great Migration of wildebeests, takes place between July and October.
 

What to pack for safari?

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A safari is a wonderful adventure! You’ll spend a lot of time in the vehicle, so it's worth wearing comfortable, breathable clothes. Also, remember to bring something warm – Africa can be surprisingly cool in the early morning and evening! Here’s a list of items to consider:

• sunscreen

• hat or cap

• sunglasses

• mosquito repellant

• comfortable, breathable shoes and clothes

• long trousers and a sweatshirt – morning and evening game drives can be chilly

• camera

• spare batteries

• binoculars

• swimsuit

• reusable water bottle (a dispenser is available in the vehicle)

• passport or a copy of it with a visa (for hotel check-in)
   

Do we need a visa to travel to Kenya?
 

Yes, a visa is required to visit Kenya. You must apply for it online in advance (it’s not available upon arrival at the airport) by creating an account and filling out the application form at https://www.etakenya.go.ke/en.

The passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry and should have at least two blank pages for visa stamps. Please check for updates, as these requirements may change.
 

Are any vaccinations required for Kenya?
 

To enter Kenya, proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required.

No other mandatory vaccinations are required for travelers from Europe; however, the World Health Organization recommends optional vaccinations against yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, tetanus, diphtheria, and polio.

Before traveling, it is advisable to consult with a doctor for more information on recommended vaccines and malaria prevention. A mosquito repellent (such as "Mugga") is also recommended.

Since these regulations are subject to change, please check for the latest requirements on the following page: https://www.gov.pl/web/kenia/idp.
 

Is it better to use cash or credit cards in Kenya (and in what currency)?
 

Credit cards are commonly accepted; however, power outages, network issues, or other malfunctions can sometimes prevent card transactions. Additionally, small shops or local vendors may not accept cards, so it’s a good idea to carry some cash.

The Kenyan currency is the Kenyan shilling (KSH), divided into 100 cents. Dollars, euros, and British pounds can be easily exchanged for Kenyan shillings at banks and currency exchanges. Smaller denominations of dollars (below $50) are often exchanged at a lower rate, so avoid bringing $1 bills.

Note – Only U.S. dollars printed within the last 10 years are accepted, as older bills may be refused or exchanged at a lower rate.

Some hotels accept payments in both KSH and USD.

ATMs are available near shopping centers and banks, though outages are possible. ATMs dispense only Kenyan shillings, not U.S. dollars.

The approximate exchange rate is 1 USD = 115 KSH.
 

What is the voltage in Kenya?
 

The voltage in Kenya is 220-240 V, and British-style plugs are used. It’s advisable to bring an adapter.
 

What to wear in Kenya?
 

Around Mombasa, temperatures generally reach 30°C, with high humidity. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for both day and night, but covering shoulders and legs can help with mosquito protection. Since the coastal region of Kenya is predominantly Muslim, modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) is also recommended, especially when visiting the old town or religious sites.

For safari, it’s worth bringing a warm sweatshirt and pants for early morning and evening outings, as temperatures can drop to around 20°C.
 

What souvenirs can be taken out of Kenya?
 

There is an absolute ban on exporting ivory and rhino horn products. Coral, starfish, most shells, and sand are also prohibited for export.

If you have specific shopping plans, consult customs officials upon arrival to confirm whether a particular item can be exported.

Popular and legal souvenirs include wooden sculptures, soapstone carvings, and local fabrics and clothing.
 

Can I bring plastic bags into Kenya?
 

Plastic bags, including single-use plastic bags, are prohibited in Kenya. However, reusable zip-lock bags are permitted.

Can I bring gifts for local children and adults?
 

Many visitors bring sweets, pens, and notebooks for local children in good faith, giving them out on the street or during safari. Unfortunately, in East Africa, it’s common for children to skip school to wait for gifts from tourists along “tourist routes.” Additionally, access to dental care and toothbrushes is limited, and children in primary school typically don’t use pens or certain notebook styles (they generally use pencils).

Throwing sweets from vehicles, which is a common practice, can be dangerous (children often run onto the road) and even disrespectful.

If you’d like to help, consider reaching out to a local orphanage or community center before your visit and ask what is needed. Often, essentials like laundry detergent, hygiene products, or basic food supplies are more helpful than sweets.

You may also support local production by buying products like reusable sanitary pads made by Maja Kotala’s charity project, Sewing Together, which provides young girls and students with necessary supplies.
 

Can children go on safari?
 

Yes! Absolutely!

In fact, children often handle travel and temperatures better than adults 😉 While we sometimes worry about our little ones, kids are often the most excited to see wild animals on safari!

There is no minimum age limit to join the safari program, and car seats can be arranged upon request.

If traveling with children, consider a private safari vehicle. This allows you to tailor the schedule (wake-up times, rest breaks, meal stops) to your family’s needs.
 

What type of bag should I bring for safari?
 

We recommend using soft bags or backpacks rather than suitcases. The trunk space is typically about 130cm x 45cm x 150 cm, and it needs to accommodate the luggage of all safari participants.

If you’re on a private safari with just 2–4 people, you’ll have the entire trunk and extra seats available, so larger suitcases and bags are an option.