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For sea lovers, Mombasa and Malindi offer great
opportunities for scuba diving and snorkelling. For beaches,
the Arabic influenced island of Lamu is a must. For
the more intrepid traveller then there are plenty of opportunities
for adventure such as climbing Mount Kenya or maybe
a camel trek in the north.
There is a rich tapestry of tribes in Kenya, such as the Kikuyu,
Samburu, Swahili and Turkana and historic influences
from settlers and colonialists from Arabia and Europe. The
Europeans have had the most chequered history with Kenya,
from the scandals of the 'Happy Valley', outside Nairobi,
to the Kikuyu led Mau Mau uprising that led to independence
in 1963. More recently there have been problems such as the
bombing of the US Embassy and attacks on tourists after the
1997 elections. However these incidents quickly fade into
the past and tourism is once again thriving in Kenya, which
is generally thought of as safe to visit.
Check with your local embassy for up to date travel safety
advice.
Climate
There are four distinct climatic zones in Kenya. The plateau
of West Kenya is wet throughout the year, with huge amounts
of rain in April, and temperatures range from 57 - 94F throughout
the year. The Rift Valley and Central Highlands
has a pleasant, cooler climate that varies from 50 - 80F.
There are two rainy seasons, the 'short rains' from October
to November and 'long rains' from March to June.
The third zone is the most unwelcoming bushlands and deserts,
which lie in the north and east of Kenya. There is a low annual
rainfall and a dramatic temperature range from 67 - 105F between
day and night. The popular coastal belt is hot and humid ranging
from 73 - 90F and a high annual rainfall.
Dress
Amongst the riot of flamboyant safari colours, you may notice
that Kenyans are quite conservatively dressed. Although the
women are not shy with colour, they will be modestly covered.
A women traveller wandering around in bikini tops is not acceptable
in towns. In Lamu and other areas where the population
is predominantly Muslim it is advised to cover up shoulders
and knees.
Language
English and Swahili are the national languages
of Kenya, however there are an abundance of tribal languages
spoken including Masai, Luo, Kikamba and Samburu.
In the more touristy areas such as the coast you will find
locals who speak Italian and German, but English
is still the mostly widely understood language for travellers.
Food
Generally food in Kenya is basic potatoes or millet served
with beans or dried meat. Nyama choma has been adopted
as Kenya's national dish. In addition there are good dishes
that have a spice infused Arabic influence. The vast number
of Asian immigrants also means that there are a lot of Indian
restaurants in Nairobi and Mombasa.
Cash
The local currency is the Kenya Shilling (KES) that is reminiscent
of its colonial past.
US $1 = 80 KES
UK 1 = 110 KES
1 Euro = 70 KES
For up to date currency information, check the Currency
Converter.
If you are on Safari in Kenya, things can get fairly expensive,
expect to pay $200 a day once you get there.
Visas
British, Americans, Australians, Canadians, French, Dutch
and Japanese are amongst those requiring visas. Amongst those
exempt are Italians, Germans, Spanish, Turkish and Singaporeans.
It is advisable to consult the Kenyan Embassy who can issue
both single entry and multiple entry visas.
Transport
Travel in Kenya varies according to your needs. four wheel
drive vehicles are essential for off the road but if you are
simply going between short distances then hitching is a different
and relatively safe way to go short distances. The infrastructure
is fairly good and trains run quite smoothly, but services
are limited. However taking domestic flights will give you
some truly fantastic views of Kenya's plains and wildlife.
Matatus, mini shuttle buses, are the local form
of transport that comes in all shapes and sizes. These are
quite dangerous and therefore only recommended for short journeys.
If you are on the coast then taking a dhow boat along
the coast is a truly romantic and memorable experience.
Health
Immunisation is required by law in Kenya so you will need
to produce a certificate for some jabs, especially Yellow
Fever. Other recommendations are Polio, Tetanus, Hepatitis
A and B, Typhoid, Cholera, Rabies and TB. Malaria tablets
are also recommended. You may also want to take your own syringes
as HIV and AIDS is still a major risk in Africa. |
