Is Kenya safe for first-time visitors?

Yes, but stick to established tourist circuits and use reputable tour operators. Nairobi requires normal city precautions—don't walk alone after dark and avoid displaying valuables. Safari areas are very safe.

Do I need yellow fever vaccination?

Only if arriving from a yellow fever endemic country. However, many travelers get it anyway since it's required for onward travel to some African countries. Malaria prophylaxis is more important.

Should I join a group safari or go solo?

Group safaris cost less ($150-250 per day vs $400+ private) but follow set schedules. Private safaris offer flexibility but cost significantly more. First-timers often prefer the guidance of group tours.

What's the tipping culture like?

Tip safari guides $10-15 per day, camp staff $5-10 per day, and restaurant staff 10%. Many safari camps have communal tip boxes for all staff.

Can I drink tap water?

No, stick to bottled or filtered water. Most safari camps provide safe drinking water. Avoid ice in drinks and raw vegetables unless at upscale establishments.

How to Plan Your First Trip to Kenya

Plan 7-10 days minimum, budget $80-120 per day, and visit during dry seasons (June-October or December-March). Book safari accommodations 3-4 months ahead, get your visa online before arrival, and pack for both game drives and Nairobi's cooler evenings.

Choose your season. Visit June-October for the Great Migration and dry weather, or December-March for fewer crowds and green landscapes. Avoid April-May (heavy rains) and November (short rains).
Plan your route. First-timers should stick to the classic circuit: Nairobi (1-2 days), Masai Mara (2-3 days), and either Amboseli (2 days) or Lake Nakuru (1-2 days). Add coast time in Mombasa or Diani Beach if you have 10+ days.
Book safari accommodations early. Reserve safari lodges and camps 3-4 months ahead, especially for July-October. Budget camps start at $150 per person per night, mid-range lodges run $300-500, luxury camps $800+.
Arrange airport transfers. Pre-book transfers from Jomo Kenyatta Airport to your Nairobi hotel. Uber works in the city but not for long-distance safari travel. Most safari operators include all transfers in their packages.
Get travel insurance. Buy comprehensive coverage including medical evacuation. Flying Doctor Service coverage costs about $20 and is worth having for remote safari areas.

Is Kenya safe for first-time visitors?: Yes, but stick to established tourist circuits and use reputable tour operators. Nairobi requires normal city precautions—don't walk alone after dark and avoid displaying valuables. Safari areas are very safe.
Do I need yellow fever vaccination?: Only if arriving from a yellow fever endemic country. However, many travelers get it anyway since it's required for onward travel to some African countries. Malaria prophylaxis is more important.
Should I join a group safari or go solo?: Group safaris cost less ($150-250 per day vs $400+ private) but follow set schedules. Private safaris offer flexibility but cost significantly more. First-timers often prefer the guidance of group tours.
What's the tipping culture like?: Tip safari guides $10-15 per day, camp staff $5-10 per day, and restaurant staff 10%. Many safari camps have communal tip boxes for all staff.
Can I drink tap water?: No, stick to bottled or filtered water. Most safari camps provide safe drinking water. Avoid ice in drinks and raw vegetables unless at upscale establishments.