CLIMATE

The climate of Kenya is as varied as its physical structure. Climatic conditions vary from the tropical humidity of the coast, through the dry heat of the hinterland and northern plains, to the cool air of the plateau and mountains. Despite Kenya's equatorial position, Mt. Kenya is perpetually snow-capped. The coastal temperature averages 27°C (80°F), and the temperature decreases by slightly less than 2°C (3°F) with each 1,000 ft (305 m) increase in altitude. The capital, Nairobi, at 1,675 m, has a mean annual temperature of 19°C. The arid plains vary from 21°C to 27°C (70°F to 80°F). Seasonal variations are distinguished by duration of rainfall rather than changes of temperature; most regions of the country have two rainy seasons, the long rains falling between April and June, and the short rains between October and December. Average annual rainfall varies from 5 inches a year in the most arid regions of the northern plains to 70 inches a year near Lake Victoria. The coast and highland areas have an average of 40 inches per year.

 

VISAS & IMMIGRATION

Visas are required by all except nationals of commonwealth countries, Australia, Denmark, Eire, Ethiopia, Germany, Ghana, Finland, India, Italy, Namibia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, San Marino, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Turkey and Uruguay

The Government of Kenya has decided to reinstate visa requirements for tourists visiting Kenya from the UK. From March 01st 2001, all UK visitors will need to either apply in advance to the High Commission in London, or obtain their visa on arrival in Kenya.

It is best to check with your local Kenyan Embassy or Consulate for the latest visa requirements.

 

MONEY

Currency:   1 Kenyan shilling=100 cents
Current Exchange Rate:    Today's Exchange Rate

All the major Credit cards are widely accepted, as are travellers cheques which can be changed in any bank. Bear in mind they have varying commission charges.

Banking hours

Banks:     Monday to Friday: 09:00-14:00 (16:30 in the major cities). The airport banks are open until midnight every day.

 

LOCAL TIME

Kenya is 3 hours ahead of GMT

 

GETTING AROUND

Air:

International Flights

from UK:  British Airways
Kenya Airways

Domestic Flights

Air Kenya
Flights between the main cities of Kenya and Tanzanina

Kenya Airways flies daily connecting Nairobi to Mombasa, Malindi and Kisumu. Their website contains information on international flights as well

Other companies operate flights between Masai Mara, Lamu, Malindi and Mombasa. and other towns in Kenya.

Train:

Kenya has an efficient and comfortable rail service connecting Nairobi to Mombasa, Kisumu and Malaba,. The overnight Nairobi-Mombasa service offers first and second class options but it is popular and for most of the time you need to book in advance

Bus:

A wide network of buses runs throughout the country connecting almost every town. It is cheaper to travel by bus than train and often quicker but sometimes crowded.

Matatus are a common form of mini-bus, but they are packed and are often involved in accidents. and are best avoided if possible

East Africa Shuttles
Nairobi Arusha -Moshi - Kilimanjaro shuttle bus service
Shuttle bus services between Kenya -Nairobi ,Tanzania- Arusha, Moshi, Jomo Kenyatta Airport and Kilimanjaro International Airport. Dar es Salaam.

Kenya has an extensive network of roads, mostly sealed and passable throughout the year. You may have problems on unsealed roads, particular in the game reserves, during the rains if you don't have 4 wheel drive.

Driving is on the left hand side and although not required it is convenient for you to have an International Driving Licence. You can drive on your own valid licence but you need to get it endorsed at the Road Transport Office in Nairobi.

As well as all the major international car hire firms, there are numerous local ones as well and it is worth shopping around for the best deal. Always compare the inclusive insurance. Most companies require renters to be over 23 years of age and under 70 and must have held a licence for at least 2 years.

Most reputable car hire firms are members of the Automobile Association of East Africa and have road patrols on the major highways. Nearly all lodges in the Parks have resident mechanics.

 

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

1st January

New Years' Day

1st May

Labour Day

1st June

 

11th June

Kanu Day

10th October

Moi Day

20th October

Kenyetta Day

12th December

Independence Day

25th December

Christmas Day

26th December

Boxing Day

Moveable holidays

Good Friday and Easter Monday and variable Muslim holidays

 

 

ELECTRICAL POWER

Electric Power is 240V running at 50Hz. The Plug types used are :
Rectangular blade plug

 

TRAVEL INSURANCE

If you need medical care whilst in Kenya, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not accept payment through your insurance company. In these circumstances you will have to pay in full after your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a credit card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's local embassy or representative.

To be compensated you must be treated by licensed medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper documentation and receipts.

It is advisable to always ensure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your home country.

You can check out the following websites which specialise in long term travellers, adventure travellers, backpackers and workers based abroad.

 

 

Tsavo National Park

Salt Lick Hilton Lodge - Tsavo West

 

Adjacent to Tsavo West National Park - Accommodation: 96 rooms with private bath & shower. Views of the waterhole and surrounding areas, built on 2800 acre sanctuary and park. Facilities: Bar restaurant serving international and local cuisine and Bar & lounge

Voi Wildlife Lodge - Tsavo East
This beautiful lodge is right within the boundaries of the mighty Tsavo East National park. Accommodation: The lodges offers 20 large beautifully furnished & decorated rooms. 4 family rooms cum suites and special rooms for handicapped. Facilities: A swimming pool with Jacuzzi, Breezy romantic well ventilated open air restaurant "The Tembo" restaurant with a capacity of 200 people. Sundowner bar, "Mandari Bar" with a view of the game park.

Ngulia Lodge- Tsavo West
situated spectacularly on the edge of Ndawe Escarpment, offering a vast panorama of Tsavo's sweeping plians. Ngulia is an Ideal base from which to explore Tsavo West, one of the world's largest national parks. All rooms are luxurious facing the park surroundings. Facilities: The lodge has a swimming pool, a strategically located restaurant, 2 bars and a viewing bay for the wildlife. The lodge has been constructed to blend in with the environment, in the best tradition of ecologically sensitive architecture

Kilanguni Lodge- Tsavo West
located in Tsavo west National park. 37 Kms form Mtito Andei the nearest town. Altitude 850 metres. Accommodation: The lodge provides 56 rooms (5 suites and 51 standard rooms). All rooms Fans/Mosquito Nets/Power points/Hot water. Showers, balcony and Laundry services.

 

Watamu

Crystal Bay
located between Mombasa and Malindi town in Watamu National Park. The hotel offers Ambassador Luxury Villas and Ocean's Suite. Ambassador luxury villas can accommodate up to 6 people maximum with 3 bedrooms and, Ocean’s suite can accommodate up to a maximum of 4 people in a two bedroom suites. Facilities: Available at the resort is use of Internet, fax service and a mobile phone service.