Travel tips to Kenya

Kenya enjoys one of the world’s most pleasant climates year round. The daytime temperatures are normally in the high 70’s to mid 80’s and from the mid 50’s to low 60’s in the evenings and mornings. Southern and coastal Kenya tend to get much warmer, and can be very humid depending on the season. There are two rainy seasons but the sun shines throughout the year. Travel can sometimes be difficult during the long rainy season of April and May, but the short rains of November and December are fine for travelling, with short showers usually in the late evening.

THE BEST TIME TO GO – The best times for a safari to Kenya are any months but mid-April and May, during the “big rains.” If you want to see the “great migration,” then it is best to go on safari from August through October when the herds will be in the Maasai Mara. Wildlife migration patterns will fluctuate in most parks depending on the season and where the “food” is. For example in the dry season during July – September, large concentrations of elephants head to Amboseli to get water from springs that originate from the snows of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Clothing on safari – Comfortable, casual clothing that is lightweight and easy to care for is the best bet while on safari. It can be quite cool in the early mornings, so you’ll want to dress warmly in layers, until the sun has a chance to warm up the air. “Kenya Convertibles,” khaki pants with zip-off legs, are perfect for cool early morning game drives that turn warm before you’re back in camp. Walking shorts, long pants, cotton shirts and tees are just right. For ladies, shorts are not generally accepted on streets in Africa. A cotton bush jacket or wind-breaker will be useful along with a warm sweater or fleece jacket for the cool nights. And a hat that ties on is a must. There is not a good deal of long walking or hiking on most safaris, so a comfortable pair of walking shoes or tennis shoes and a pair of sandals should be adequate. You will need thorn-proof soles.

Money and cash – The local currency in Kenya is the shilling. Major credit cards are accepted at hotels and most lodges and camps “in the bush”. However – don’t even think about finding an ATM machine! US dollars, Euros and travellers cheques are readily accepted, but small denominations are recommended for cashing at lodges and camps. Changing money at banks can be very time consuming and it is never wise to change money on the street.

Shopping – If you don’t like to bargain, there are many nice shops and galleries in the main cities that carry nice crafts, including basketry, batiks, beadwork, masks and woodcarvings. Gift shops in hotels, safari lodges and some camps are also excellent places to buy quality souvenirs. If you like to bargain, you may want to explore the local markets. However, do not ship goods home! Shipping rates are not guaranteed and can be exorbitant. Plan to carry your purchases home or pay the surcharge from the airline.

Water – To keep from getting dehydrated, you will need to drink plenty of fluids.

Language – Kiswahili is the national language of Kenya. While on safari, you will pick up such phrases as Habari Gani (How are you?)). However, English is official and widely spoken but do not expect everyone to speak English.