Kenya

Kenya is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your travel plans:

• July to October (Dry Season): Best for wildlife safaris—especially the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara.
• November to May (Green Season): Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and excellent birdwatching.
• December to March: Ideal for beach vacations along the coast and diving in the Indian Ocean.

• Maasai Mara National Reserve – One of the world’s best safari destinations, home to the Great Migration.
• Amboseli National Park – Stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and large elephant herds.
• Lake Nakuru National Park – Famous for flamingos and rhinos.
• Tsavo National Parks (East & West) – Vast wilderness areas with stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
• Nairobi National Park – A unique safari experience just outside the capital city.
• Diani Beach – White sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters on the Indian Ocean coast.
• Lamu Island – A historic Swahili coastal town with stunning architecture and beaches.
• Mount Kenya – Africa’s second-highest peak, perfect for trekking.
• Giraffe Centre & David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust – Close encounters with giraffes and rescued baby elephants.

• Nyama Choma – Grilled meat, a Kenyan barbecue staple.
• Ugali – A maize flour dish served with vegetables, meat, or stew.
• Sukuma Wiki – Collard greens, a common side dish.
• Samaki wa Kupaka – Coconut fish curry, popular on the coast.
• Mutura – A flavorful Kenyan sausage.
• Mandazi – A deep-fried, sweet dough similar to doughnuts.
• Chai (Kenyan Tea) – Strong, spiced tea served with milk and sugar.

• Domestic Flights: The fastest way to reach national parks and remote areas.
• Safari Vehicles & Private Tours: The best way to explore game reserves.
• Matatus (Minibuses): Cheap but crowded and risky for tourists.
• Boda Bodas (Motorcycle Taxis): Common but should be used with caution.
• Uber & Bolt: Available in Nairobi and Mombasa.
• Car Rental: Possible but not recommended for first-time visitors due to road conditions.

• Most travelers need a visa to enter Kenya.
• E-Visa: Apply online at https://www.etakenya.go.ke/en before arrival.
• Visa on Arrival is no longer available.
• Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk.
• Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.

• The local currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES).
• Bring USD or EUR to exchange at banks or forex bureaus.
• ATMs are widely available in cities, but cash is essential in remote areas.
• Credit cards are accepted at hotels and major restaurants, but not in small shops and markets.

• English and Swahili are the official languages.
• English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and safari lodges.
• Learning a few Swahili phrases, like “Jambo” (hello) and “Asante” (thank you), can be helpful.

• Greetings are important—a handshake is common, and people appreciate polite conversation.
• Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
• Tipping is expected in restaurants, safaris, and hotels.
• Photography: Always ask before taking photos of locals, especially Maasai or Samburu tribes.
• Respect for wildlife: Do not feed or disturb animals in national parks.

• Restaurants: 10% tip if service charge is not included.
• Safari Guides: $10–$20 per person per day.
• Lodge Staff: $5–$10 per person per day, pooled among staff.
• Drivers & Transfers: $5 per ride is appreciated.
• Porters: $1–$2 per bag.

• For peak safari season (July–October): Book 6–12 months in advance for lodges and camps.
• For off-peak travel (November–May): Booking 3–6 months ahead is usually sufficient.
• For beach resorts: Book at least 3 months in advance for the best rates.

• COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but check for updates before traveling.
• Plastic bags are banned in Kenya—avoid bringing them in your luggage.
• Some medications require a doctor’s prescription for entry.
• Drones are restricted in national parks and require a permit.
• Malaria risk: Bring mosquito repellent and consider malaria medication.

Contact us at 281-229-0862 or admin@pointmetoparadise.com