Safety:
Kenyans are well known for their friendly, laid-back attitude. In most cases, you will be humbled by their hospitality, despite many coming from poor backgrounds; they can afford a smile and the usual ‘Jambo’ greetings. Hawkers selling jewelry, handicrafts, and beads, as well as beggars, will always be attracted to you. Remember, these are individuals trying to earn a living to feed their families.

Health:
Information on requirements for yellow fever for Kenya is often conflicting and subject to change, so we recommend traveling with your yellow fever vaccination cards. No immunizations are required by law in Kenya if you are traveling directly from Europe or the USA. However, if traveling where yellow fever is present, you will need to prove you have had the inoculation. We further recommend that all passengers visit their doctors prior to travel and obtain anti-malaria medication, which should be started 7 days before travel to allow your body to adjust accordingly.

ATMs:
Virtually all commercial banks in Kenya have ATMs at most branches. Barclays Bank has the easiest and most reliable machines for international withdrawals. Other major international and local banks will all support and accept Mastercards and Visa cards.

Credit Cards:
Credit cards are becoming more popular, with full manual swipe machines gradually being replaced by electronic systems. Most accommodation facilities, even in the heart of the savannah wilderness, will accept payments via Mastercard, Visa, and even the famous mobile money transfer in Kenya, Mpesa. Some restaurants, shopping centers, and curio shops also accept these methods. When paying with cash, most entities will not accept US dollar denominations older than 1999; they accept those from 2000 onwards.

Passport & Personal Safety:
Make a copy of your passport and keep it in your luggage. Avoid walking alone at night in major cities or on empty beaches. Refrain from wearing expensive jewelry; simple earrings, rings, watches, and bracelets are advisable. Do not carry too much cash with you. Wear a money belt that fits under your clothes. Avoid carrying a lot of electronics, such as cameras, iPhones, or iPads. Always keep your valuables in safes at hotels, lodges, or camps. Avoid using your mobile phones in crowded public places to avoid attracting phone snatchers’ attention.

Currencies:
The unit of currency is the Kenyan shilling (Ksh). The US dollar is the most quoted standard currency for accommodation facilities and safari prices. Other international currencies such as British pounds and euros are also widely accepted throughout the country at banks and forex bureaus. Travelers’ checks are replaceable but are increasingly less widely accepted and often come with high commission charges.