Can I get a visa on arrival in East Africa?

Some countries still offer visa on arrival (like Kenya and Tanzania), but e-visas are faster, cheaper, and guarantee approval before you travel. Skip the airport lines and apply online.

Is the East Africa Tourist Visa worth it?

Yes, if you're visiting 2+ countries among Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. At $100, it's cheaper than buying individual visas ($50 each) and allows unlimited border crossings for 90 days.

Do I need yellow fever vaccination for East Africa?

Only if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk. Check the WHO list - if you're flying direct from Europe, US, or Asia, you don't need it. If connecting through certain African countries, you do.

What if my visa application gets rejected?

Rejections are rare with complete applications. Common issues: invalid passport photo format, incomplete hotel bookings, or insufficient funds proof. Reapply with correct documents - no penalty for resubmission.

How to Get Your First Visa for East Africa

Most visitors need a visa for East African countries, which you can get online through e-visa systems ($50-100) or at embassies before travel. The East Africa Tourist Visa covers Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for $100 and allows multiple entries across all three countries for 90 days.

Check if you need a visa. Look up your passport country's requirements for your destination. Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Ethiopia require visas for most nationalities. Only a few countries like Seychelles, Mauritius, and some East African Community members get visa-free entry.
Choose between single-country or regional visa. If visiting Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, get the East Africa Tourist Visa for $100. For single countries, apply for individual e-visas: Kenya $51, Tanzania $50, Uganda $50, Rwanda $30, Ethiopia $52.
Gather required documents. You need a passport valid for 6+ months, passport photo (digital file), flight itinerary, hotel bookings or invitation letter, and yellow fever certificate if coming from an infected area. Have bank statements ready for some applications.
Apply online through official e-visa portals. Go directly to government websites: evisa.go.ke for Kenya, eservices.immigration.go.tz for Tanzania, visas.immigration.go.ug for Uganda, irembo.gov.rw for Rwanda. Apply 4-7 days before travel for single visas, 7-10 days for the East Africa Tourist Visa.
Pay and download your approved visa. Pay with credit card and wait for email approval (usually 3-5 business days). Download and print the approval letter. You'll get the physical visa sticker at the airport when you arrive.

Can I get a visa on arrival in East Africa?: Some countries still offer visa on arrival (like Kenya and Tanzania), but e-visas are faster, cheaper, and guarantee approval before you travel. Skip the airport lines and apply online.
Is the East Africa Tourist Visa worth it?: Yes, if you're visiting 2+ countries among Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. At $100, it's cheaper than buying individual visas ($50 each) and allows unlimited border crossings for 90 days.
Do I need yellow fever vaccination for East Africa?: Only if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk. Check the WHO list - if you're flying direct from Europe, US, or Asia, you don't need it. If connecting through certain African countries, you do.
What if my visa application gets rejected?: Rejections are rare with complete applications. Common issues: invalid passport photo format, incomplete hotel bookings, or insufficient funds proof. Reapply with correct documents - no penalty for resubmission.