Travel Information for East Africa
Language
- English is the official language across East Africa.
- Kiswahili is widely spoken and is the second official language.
Passport & Visas
- A valid passport is required.
- Apply for a Kenyan single entry visa at www.ecitizen.go.ke.
- Both e-visa and visa-on-arrival are accepted in Tanzania but for Kenya all visitors must obtain e-visa before departing for Kenya
- Visa Fees:
- Kenya, Tanzania, USD $51
- Under 16: Free visa in Kenya
- East Africa Tourist Visa (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda): USD $101
- Kenya Transit Visa (<24hrs): USD $21
- Check respective immigration websites for exceptions and country-specific requirements.
Health & Vaccinations
- Yellow Fever vaccine is mandatory for entry to Kenya & Tanzania.
- Malaria prevention and mosquito repellent are highly recommended.
- Carry prescribed medications for the full trip.
- Drink only bottled/purified water.
- Avoid swimming in lakes/rivers—use hotel pools or ocean only.
Currency
- Kenya: Kenyan Shilling (KES)
- Tanzania: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
- USD, EUR, GBP accepted widely, but carry local currency for convenience.
- ATMs and currency exchange available in cities and airports.
- Note: Older USD bills (before 2006) may not be accepted.
Customs
- Duty-free allowance: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, 1 litre of spirits.
Baggage & Arrival
- Baggage is collected at the conveyor belt, followed by customs clearance.
- Our representative will meet you outside the Arrival Hall with a name sign.
Electricity
- Power supply: 220v–240v.
- Lodges may use generators.
- Bring a universal adaptor.
Mobile & Internet
- Mobile roaming works in most areas; check compatibility with your provider.
- Prepaid SIM cards are available and affordable.
- Lodges/hotels usually have landlines or Wi-Fi access.
Drones
- Use of drones is prohibited in all safari destinations.
Water
- Tap water is safe for washing, not for drinking.
- Use bottled or purified water only.
What to Pack
- Soft-sided bags are preferred for safaris.
- Camera, binoculars, torch, spare batteries.
- Universal adaptor, sunscreen, insect repellent.
Clothing
- Light, casual clothes year-round.
- Sweater/jacket for cool mornings & evenings.
- Comfortable walking shoes for safaris.
- Hats, sunglasses, swimwear recommended.
- No topless sunbathing.
- Evening wear: Long trousers for men in hotels.
Tipping Guide
Kenya:
- Porter: $1/bag
- Restaurant: $1.50/person
- Driver-guide: $10–$30/day
Tanzania:
- Porter: $1.50/bag
- Restaurant: $2/person
- Driver-guide: $25–$40/day
Recommended Budget: ~$100 per person for a 7–10 day trip.
Shopping
- Great selection of souvenirs: wood carvings, Maasai jewelry, batiks, gemstones.
- Bargaining is common.
- Some shops accept credit cards and foreign currency.
- Don’t wait till the last day to shop—unique items are found in smaller kiosks along the way.
Tax & Duty-Free
- VAT included in prices; no refund, except in Tanzania (at airports).
- Duty-free shops are available at international airports.
Cost of Living
- Meals:
- Lunch: ~$25/person
- Dinner: $30–$50/person
- Local beer: ~$3 (300ml)
Public Holidays
Kenya: Jan 1, May 1, June 1, Oct 20, Dec 12, 25 & 26 + religious holidays
Tanzania: Jan 1, Apr 7, Apr 26, July 7, Dec 9, 25 & 26 + Zanzibar-specific and religious holidays
Essentials:
- Flashlight, sunscreen, insect repellent (DEET), hand sanitizer, first aid kit, binoculars, notebook, camera & extra batteries