Welcome to Kenya 😊

Quick Facts About Kenya

Money and Finances

The currency in Kenya is the Kenyan shilling (KES). There are denomination coins for 1, 5, 10, and 20 shillings. Notes come in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 shillings.

ATM Network

ATMs are widely available in major cities and towns in Kenya, including at many airports. However, they may be less common in rural areas.

Credit Cards

Credit card acceptance is generally limited in Kenya, especially outside of major cities. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted, while American Express is less commonly accepted. It's recommended to carry cash when traveling in Kenya.

Internet and Phones

In Kenya, the average download and upload speed is around 12Mbps. However, the government has been known to interfere with internet access during political unrest.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

Some of the major telco companies in Kenya include Safaricom, Airtel, and Telkom Kenya. The average cost for a mobile phone plan is relatively low compared to other countries, with plans starting at around $5 per month. There are some sim compatibility issues, so it is advisable to check with your provider before travelling.

Dialling to Kenya

To call Kenya from another country, dial +254 followed by the area code and then the phone number. The area codes range from 20 (Nairobi) to 55 (Mandera).

Transport Around Kenya

Air Travel

Kenya has two main international airports: Jomo Kenyatta International in Nairobi and Moi International in Mombasa. There are also several smaller domestic airports throughout the country.

Train Travel

Kenya has a limited inter-city train network, with routes connecting Nairobi with Mombasa and Kisumu. Prices vary based on class and distance, but a second-class ticket from Nairobi to Mombasa costs around 1200 Kenyan shillings and takes approximately 4 hours.

Metro / Local Trains

There is no metro or local train system in Kenya's major cities.

Buses

Buses are a popular mode of transport in Kenya, with many routes connecting major cities and towns. Prices vary depending on distance and class, but a ticket from Nairobi to Mombasa costs around 1000 Kenyan shillings and takes roughly 8 hours.

Rideshare

Uber and Bolt are the major rideshare companies operating in Kenya, with prices varying based on distance and time of day. A short ride in Nairobi would typically cost around 200-300 Kenyan shillings.

Driving by Car

Driving in Kenya can be challenging due to poor road conditions and heavy traffic in urban areas. The speed limit on most major highways is 80 km/h, and Kenya drives on the left-hand side of the road.

Local Customs

In Kenya, it is common to tip in restaurants and for services such as haircuts. The amount is usually around 10% of the total bill. Locals greet each other with a handshake, and often, hugs and kisses on the cheeks among close friends and family. It is polite to address people by their titles, such as Mr. or Mrs. unless otherwise indicated. Speaking with strangers is generally reserved and formal, with a polite and respectful tone. Men and women usually address each other by their first names, unless there is a significant age difference where titles are used as a sign of respect.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

The health system in Kenya consists of both public and private facilities, with varying levels of quality and affordability. The public system is often understaffed and underfunded, with long wait times and limited resources. Private facilities, while more expensive, often offer better quality of care. Health insurance is not mandatory, but recommended for those traveling to Kenya. For a visit to the doctor, costs can range from $20 to $100 depending on the facility and the services provided.

COVID Situation

Kenya has taken various measures to combat the spread of COVID-19, including travel restrictions, mandatory quarantine for incoming travelers, and enforcement of social distancing and mask-wearing. As of October 2021, the rates of coronavirus in Kenya are relatively low, with an average of 100 new cases and 1-2 deaths per day.

Common Health Risks

Malaria, dengue fever, and yellow fever are endemic in Kenya, and travelers are advised to take preventive measures such as taking anti-malaria medication and getting vaccinated. Food and waterborne illnesses such as typhoid and cholera are also common, so it is important to practice good hygiene and avoid consuming unsafe food or water. Tap water in Kenya should be avoided, and bottled or filtered water should be used instead.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Kenya, it is legal to consume alcohol if you are over 18 years old. However, there are restrictions on when and where alcohol can be sold or consumed, such as during certain hours and in certain areas. Some towns and counties have also banned the sale and consumption of alcohol.

Recreational Drugs

Kenya has strict laws against drug use, possession, and trafficking. Drug use is illegal and punishable by imprisonment, and possession of even small amounts of drugs can lead to severe penalties. There is no legal status for any recreational drugs in Kenya.

Pre-Marital Relationships

There are no specific laws that prohibit pre-marital relationships in Kenya. However, there are laws against rape, sexual assault, and indecent acts, which could be applied in cases of pre-marital sex.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Kenya and is punishable by up to 14 years in prison. LGBT people face discrimination and harassment in Kenya, and same-sex marriage is not recognized.

Firearms / Guns

Kenya has strict laws on firearms. Only licensed individuals and entities are allowed to own and use firearms, and there are restrictions on the types of firearms that are allowed. Unlicensed possession of firearms is a serious crime and is punished severely.