Get ready for the trip of a lifetime!

Check your own government travel advisory before departure. Travelers from the United States can use the U.S. Department of State, while travelers from the United Kingdom can consult the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. Your travel consultant can also help you understand what applies to your itinerary.

Yes. Travel advice can change, so we recommend checking it when booking, again before final payment, and once more in the days before you fly.

Most travelers need to apply for Kenya’s Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before departure. Applications should be completed through the official Kenyan government portal and approved before you travel.

Apply once your travel plans are confirmed and allow enough time for processing. We recommend arranging it well before departure instead of leaving it until the final days.

You usually need a valid passport, travel details, accommodation information, and a payment card. Your passport should be valid for at least six months after arrival and have blank pages for entry stamps.

Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance for every traveler. Your policy should include medical expenses, cancellation cover, luggage, delays, and emergency evacuation from remote safari areas.

No. Flying Doctors covers emergency medical assistance and evacuation only. It does not cover hospital bills, treatment costs, luggage, cancellation, or other travel risks.

As a general guideline, many guests tip their safari guide around USD 10 to USD 20 per person per day, depending on group size and the level of service.

Many lodges have a staff tip box. This is usually the fairest way to thank the whole team, including people working behind the scenes.

Bring some U.S. dollars for tips and tourism-related expenses, plus a bank card for larger payments. Kenyan shillings are useful for small purchases, markets, local restaurants, and personal expenses.

English and Swahili are official languages in Kenya. Many people also speak local languages depending on the region.

Yes. English is widely used in tourism, hotels, airports, national parks, and by safari guides.

Greeting people politely is appreciated. Always ask before photographing people, dress modestly in towns and villages, and follow your guide’s advice during community visits.

Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, a warm layer for early mornings, comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and swimwear if your lodge has a pool or you add a beach extension.

Bring binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent, a camera, spare batteries or power bank, and a small day bag for water and personal items.

Light aircraft often have strict soft-bag weight limits. If your itinerary includes domestic flights, check your confirmed travel documents for the exact allowance.

Costs vary widely. A private safari with quality lodges, a dedicated driver-guide, park fees, and transfers costs more than a group tour, while luxury camps and peak season dates increase the price further.

Most tailor-made safaris include accommodation, meals as specified, private transport, a driver-guide, park fees, and planned game drives. International flights, visas, tips, insurance, and some drinks are usually excluded.

Park and conservancy fees support wildlife protection, local conservation, and park management. They are an important part of the total safari cost, especially in premium areas such as the Masai Mara.

Expect fresh breakfasts, packed or lodge lunches, and three-course dinners in many camps. Menus often include soups, salads, grilled meats, vegetarian dishes, desserts, and Kenyan specialties.

Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and other dietary requirements can usually be accommodated when shared in advance.

Safe drinking water is normally provided during game drives and at lodges. Avoid drinking untreated tap water unless your accommodation confirms it is safe.

Yes. Professional safari guides are trained in wildlife, safety, route planning, and guest care. Many have years of field experience in Kenya’s national parks and conservancies.

Your safari includes a dedicated driver-guide for your vehicle. If you wish to request a specialist guide, such as a language-specific or expert guide, this can be arranged on request.

Absolutely. Guides can adjust the pace, involve children during game drives, or focus on interests such as photography, birdwatching, or conservation when informed in advance.

Popular Kenya extensions include hot-air balloon safaris over the Masai Mara, walking safaris in private conservancies, cultural visits to Maasai communities, and beach stays in Diani Beach or Watamu.

The most popular time to visit Kenya is during the dry seasons: June to October and January to February. These months offer sunny weather, minimal rainfall, and excellent wildlife viewing.

Wildlife viewing is excellent throughout the year, but it is usually easiest during dry months when vegetation is thinner and animals gather around water sources.

The Great Wildebeest Migration usually reaches the Masai Mara between July and October. Exact timing varies because it is a natural event.

Yes. The rainy seasons bring lush landscapes, excellent birdlife, and fewer visitors. Heavy rain can affect roads, so itineraries may feel more adventurous and less predictable.

There is no bad time to visit Kenya, only different experiences. Each season has its own advantages depending on your travel style and expectations.

Kenya has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Coastal areas are warmer and more humid, while inland highlands are usually cooler.

The long dry season runs roughly from June to October. A shorter dry period usually falls between December and March.

The long rains usually occur from March through May, while the short rains often fall around November and December.

Yes. Coastal areas such as Mombasa are warmer and more humid, while Nairobi and the central highlands can be cooler, especially in the morning and evening.

Pack lightweight layers, sun protection, a warm fleece or jacket for early game drives, and a light rain jacket if travelling in wetter months.

A yellow fever vaccination is required if you arrive from, or have recently travelled through, a country where yellow fever is present. Travelers arriving directly from non-endemic countries generally do not need to present a certificate.

Malaria is present in parts of Kenya, especially lower-altitude and coastal areas. Consult your doctor for personal advice based on your itinerary and protect yourself from mosquito bites.

Kenya is generally safe for organized safaris with professional guides. As in any major destination, stay aware, use trusted transport, and follow local guidance.

Nairobi is generally safe in well-known areas, hotels, and business districts. Avoid walking alone after dark and use arranged transport.

Mombasa is popular with visitors and considered safe in tourist areas, resorts, and beaches. Remain alert in crowded places and avoid unfamiliar areas late at night.

Keep valuables out of sight, use hotel safes, rely on registered taxis or arranged transfers, and follow advice from your guide or hotel.

AMREF Flying Doctors operates a round-the-clock air ambulance service in Kenya. In an emergency, they can provide medical advice or evacuate you from remote locations to hospital care.

The service covers emergency medical assistance and evacuation only. It does not include hospital treatment costs, medical bills, visas, or normal travel insurance benefits.

Safaris often take place far from major towns and hospitals. Flying Doctors adds reassurance by making professional evacuation support available if a medical emergency occurs.