If you’re looking for an authentic African experience, Kenya is the place for you. It’s a country full of unique cultures, beautiful beaches, world-class hotels (like Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge!), and unforgettable wildlife experiences on the Maasai Mara. Kenya is a Dope destination in Africa that has:
Beautiful beaches in Lamu, Kenya
Unique safari experience in Maasai Mara
Nairobi, Kenya is a great place to party.
A diverse culture ( be sure to visit Masai Market)
Delicious food and drink
Melanin Friendly Destination
Deals, deals and deals (We stayed at 4 star hotel for $56 a night)
Planning your trip around the dry season is key. From June to October, there will be little rainfall and wildlife is Planning your trip around the dry season is key. From June to October, there will be little rainfall, more wildlife and less mosquitos. However, traveling to Kenya during the wet season, from November to May, is the best time to find cheap deals.
Best time to Visit:
Safari Adventures: Dry Season ( Jan/Feb June-October) The Great Migration starts in August and goes through October.
Visiting Costal Beaches: Jan-Feb for best temp & clear waters.
Climbing Mount Kenya: Jan-Feb; September reliable for weather.
Magical Nngare Ndare Forest: Dry Season ( Jan/Feb June-Oct)
Language: Kenya is made up of several ethnic groups, so several languages are spoken. However, English and Swahili are the two official languages.
Currency: The official currency of Kenya is the Kenyan shilling (KES). $1 USD is equivalent to 112.40 KES.
Some accommodation and tour operators ( especially in Nairobi) will also accept payment in the US dollar. Some locations do not accept cash ( KES or USD) & only take Mpesa. Mpesa a mobile banking service that allows users to store and transfer money through their mobile phones. You can get Mpesa by purchasing a Safaricom Sim Card in Kenya.
Credit Cards & ATMs: Credit cards are widely accepted in big cities like Nairobi and Mombasa and even small sea-side towns like Diani Beach. However, you’ll need some cash on you to pay for smaller purchases like tuk-tuk rides or souvenirs at local markets. ATMs are available at most petrol stations, shopping malls and and the airports.
Plugs: In Kenya, the power plugs and sockets are type G. The standard voltage is 240 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. For foreign travelers, I recommend buying a universal adapter (make sure it has surge protection) and using a converter for hair dryers and hot tools.
VPN: Make sure you have a VPN installed on your laptop and phone before you arrive.
Safety: Kenya is generally a safe country to visit. However, you’ll need to keep an eye out for pickpockets. Use caution when pulling out cell phones in crowds and even when traveling in cars with the windows down, so your not the victim of a snatch and run.
AVERAGE COST IN THE AREA
Accomodation - There are plenty of hotels options in Kenya and nearly all hotels have there own private armed security . From extremely cheap hostels ( that are as low as $10 night) , moderate hotels 4-5 star hotels in Nairobi (with air conditioning) for as low as $50 a night and even specialty all inclusive lodges for less than $150 night. We were able to book Movenpick Nairobi for $56 a night during a recent trip.
Food - Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya and is full of delicious restaurants, Insta-worthy cafes and street stalls. Some of our favorite spots for food, drinks and a good time are Nairobi Street Kitchen and The Yard which are both located in Westland Nairobi and have multiple vendors with both Kenyan and American food options. SocialHouse is also a favorite of ours.
Suggested daily budget –  $75-100 USD (Note: This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a 3-4 star hotel, eating out, and using local uber transportation. Using the budget tips below, you can always lower this number. However, if you stay in fancier 5 star specialty lodging or fine dining, expect this to be higher!)
BUCKET LIST EXPERIENCES
Kenya
TRANSPORTATION
1. Uber – Extremely affordable and is the best mode of transportation in and around Nairobi. ($1-$20).
2. Matatu – A minivan shuttle provides easy access to the suburbs & is best for meeting locals & an authentic Kenyan experience. It is also cheapest ($.30 cents).
3. Private 4×4 Jeep Hire– Best for a safari and/or multi city trip. They cost around $200 per day but include a driver/safari guide, unlimited mileage and fuel. Highly recommend over pre arranged tours.
There are several modes of transportation in Kenya but regardless of which option you choose, expect traffic in Kenya to be worse than or equal to New York City or LA.
We wouldn’t recommend renting a car unless your comfortable driving in chaotic conditions. Kenya is notorious for its traffic jams, and not everyone obeys the rules of the road. Read more about Transportation Options and Cost in Kenya!
