Visiting Kenya

Currency 
The Kenya Shilling is the currency of Kenya.
Rates vary. Check on line.

Children
Kenyans are naturally friendly and Kenya is a most child friendly country and nearly all camps and lodges accept children. However a few small or remote camps and lodges may not on the grounds that small children do not always have the patience to remain quiet and not disturb the wildlife whilst on safari or for other safety considerations.

Climate 
Kenya straddles the equator and has a hot tropical climate with temperatures reducing at higher altitudes. The sea level coastal belt is always hot whereas Nairobi and up-country game parks have hot days and cooler evenings. The northern parts of Kenya have harsh arid conditions. Rainfall is monsoonal with long rains during the months April May and June with short rains in the months of November and December. Safaris are more popular during the dry months but many visitors enjoy the cooler albeit wet conditions during the rains.

Time Zones 
Kenya is two hours ahead of Middle European Time in winter and one hour in summer and three hours ahead of GMT in winter and two hours in summer.

Voltage 
Main electricity is 240 Volts/AC. Plugs are square three pin but adaptors are available in stores many hotels and camps.

Language. 
Kiswahili and English are the official languages however English is widely spoken. Some useful phrases are shown below.
Hello = Jambo
Good Morning = Habari za Asubuhi
Good afternoon = Habari za Alasiri
Good evening = Habari za Jioni
Welcome = Karibu
Goodbye = Kwaheri
Please = Tafadhali
Thank you = Asante Sana
Good Night = Lala salama
How are you? = Habari gani?
Good Very well = Muzuri

Shopping. 
Bargaining is expected at curio dealers. Prices shown in shops are not allways fixed. Do not buy ivory hides or elephant hair bracelets as they are prohibited.

Valuables 
It is wisest to leave valuables such as money jewelry and travel documents in the hotel safe. Kenya is a developing country and poverty may lead to crime.

Traveling by car 
Traffic drives on the left. To rent a car you will need a valid driving license and a passport. Self drive to the game parks is not advisable unless you are a very experienced traveler. 

Taxis 
Taxis are readily available at the airport hotels and in town. Avoid the older ones and be ready to ask the correct fare in advance.

Golf 
If you are an addict bring your clubs. Kenya has many attractive golf courses and golfing holidays are on the increase.

Conferences 
Many Kenya hotels camps and lodges have invested in conference facilities in the past years and have gained considerable experience in professional hosting. Your group or corporation may consider a conference holiday combined with a safari.