Visitor and travelers Information for Kenya

Climate | Latest Travel Advice | Visas & Immigration | Money | Local Time | Public Holidays | Electrical Power | Travel Insurance

CLIMATE

The climate of Kenya is as varied as its physical structure. Climatic conditions vary from the tropical humidity of the coast, through the dry heat of the hinterland and northern plains, to the cool air of the plateau and mountains. Despite Kenya's equatorial position, Mt. Kenya is perpetually snow-capped. The coastal temperature averages 27°C (80°F), and the temperature decreases by slightly less than 2°C (3°F) with each 1,000 ft (305 m) increase in altitude. The capital, Nairobi, at 1,675 m, has a mean annual temperature of 19°C. The arid plains vary from 21°C to 27°C (70°F to 80°F). Seasonal variations are distinguished by duration of rainfall rather than changes of temperature; most regions of the country have two rainy seasons, the long rains falling between April and June, and the short rains between October and December. Average annual rainfall varies from 5 inches a year in the most arid regions of the northern plains to 70 inches a year near Lake Victoria. The coast and highland areas have an average of 40 inches per year.

Climate Chart for Nairobi

Climate Chart for Mombasa

For today's weather forecast see CNN - Africa Weather Forecasts

LATEST TRAVEL ADVICE

Foreign & Commonwealth Office (London)
US State Department - Travel Warnings

VISAS & IMMIGRATION

All incoming visitors to Kenya (except East African Citizens) will now require a visa, irrespective of nationality. Citizens of the following countries need to have a visa prior to arrival in Kenya: Afghanistan, Somali, Iran, Lebanon, Iraq, Syria, Libya, Mali, Sudan, Nigeria, Yemen, Cameroon, Pakistan, North Korea, Stateless Persons, Armenia, Georgia, Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, Senegal

Visa requirements often change. We advise you to check with your local Kenyan Embassy or Consulate for the latest visa requirements.

Listing of Kenyan Tourist offices and/or embassies located around the world

MONEY

Currency: 1 Kenyan shilling=100 cents
Current Exchange Rate: Today's Exchange Rate

All the major Credit cards are widely accepted, as are travellers cheques which can be changed in any bank. Bear in mind they have varying commission charges.

Banking hours

Banks: Monday to Friday: 09:00-14:00 (16:30 in the major cities). The airport banks are open until midnight every day.

Location of Visa ATM's
Barclays Bank Cash Machine Locations

LOCAL TIME

Kenya is 3 hours ahead of GMT

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

ELECTRICAL POWER

Electric Power is 240V running at 50Hz. The Plug types used are :
Rectangular blade plug - view

TRAVEL INSURANCE

If you need medical care whilst in Kenya, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not accept payment through your insurance company. In these circumstances you will have to pay in full after your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a credit card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's local embassy or representative.

To be compensated you must be treated by licensed medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper documentation and receipts.

It is advisable to always ensure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your home country.