Kenya is a country in East Africa with a coastline on the Indian Ocean. It encompasses the savannah, Lakelands, the dramatic Great Rift Valley and mountain highlands. You can travel in Kenya by going from one place to another, as by car, train, plane, or ship; take a trip; journey and to travel for pleasure.
How To Travel In Kenya
Visas and Border Measures
Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence, you’ll need to enter a foreign destination, including COVID-19 vaccinations and tests, and check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you’re entering.
Visas
For information on Kenyan visas and permits visit the Directorate of Immigration website.
You need a visa to travel to Kenya. Kenyan entry visas are now exclusively issued electronically, with passengers required to obtain their e-visas before arrival. You can apply for single entry and transit visas on the e-visas website.
Border measures
To enter Kenya, you must have a valid COVID-19 vaccination certificate with a QR code or a negative PCR test conducted not more than 72 hours before departure. Children under 12 years are exempt from the vaccination certificate or PCR test requirements.
You’re required to upload your certificate of COVID-19 vaccination to the Global Haven partnership verification tool. If you have flu-like symptoms, you also need to complete the online health surveillance form and take a COVID-19 test on arrival at your own cost.
If you’re travelling out of Kenya, you’ll be required to abide by the health requirements of the destination country and any transit country.
Passport Validity
Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.
Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.
You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.
The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.
Lost or stolen passport
Your passport is a valuable document. It’s attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.
Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.
If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:
- In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
- If you’re overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.
Money
The local currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES).
Declare all amounts over US$10,000 when you arrive and depart. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.
Large banks and foreign exchange bureaus accept traveller’s cheques. Hotels don’t often accept them.
ATMs in Nairobi and major towns accept international credit cards.
Take care when paying with credit cards or using ATMs. Card skimming incidents are increasing. Only use ATMs at large shopping centres or in banks. Check the machine for unusual parts before you use it. Always keep your card in sight during transactions.
Ask your bank if your cards will work in Kenya.
Local Travel
Local restrictions
The Ministry of Health has mandated the wearing of masks in indoor public spaces, including public transport and flights. Adhere to the advice of local authorities, including measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Driving permit
To drive in Kenya, you’ll need both:
- a valid Australian driver’s licence
- an International Driving Permit (IDP)
Get your IDP before leaving Australia.
Before you drive:
- get to know local traffic laws and practices
- check local information on road conditions, including security risks and road closures
- avoid travel at night on major highways in and out of Nairobi and on rural roads.
Boat travel
If you travel in Kenyan waters:
- first check the International Maritime Bureau’s piracy reports
- arrange personal security measures
- be alert to threats.
Air travel
Enhanced security and COVID-19 checks are in place at Kenyan airports. Allow at least an hour to get through security.
DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
Local Contacts
Emergencies
Depending on what you need, contact your:
- travel agent
- insurance provider
- employer
- airline
Fire and rescue services
Call 999.
Always get a police report when you report a crime.
Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.
Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.
Phone: (+254) 20 800 100
Email: operations@ktf.co.ke