How to Prepare for a Trip to Kenya: Your Ultimate Pre-Adventure Guide

So, you have decided to visit Kenya! Whether you are dreaming of spotting lions on the savannah, relaxing on white-sand beaches, or soaking up the culture in Nairobi, this country delivers unforgettable experiences. However, before you jump on that plane, there are a few things to do to make sure your adventure goes smoothly. Here is your go-to guide for preparing for a trip to Kenya so that you can focus on the fun stuff once you land.

Sort Out Your Travel Documents Early

Check your passport first. It needs to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel date. And there should be at least two blank pages. Kenya recently shifted to an e-visa system. This means you can apply online through the official eCitizen portal. There is no need for embassy visits.

Apply at least two weeks before you travel. You will need a digital passport photo, a scanned copy of your passport, and a small visa fee. Once approved, print out your e-visa confirmation. You will need it for check-in and immigration. If you are planning to visit other East African countries, consider getting the East Africa Tourist Visa.

Stay Healthy and Protected

Before planning things to do in Kenya and travelling to the country, to visit a travel clinic or your doctor about 4–6 weeks before departure. Some vaccines are recommended, and others may be required:

Yellow Fever — Required if you are coming from or transiting through a country with yellow fever risk. Bring your yellow card. It is often checked at the airport.
Typhoid, Hepatitis A and B, Tetanus, Rabies — Strongly recommended for travelers.
Malaria prevention — Kenya is a malaria zone, especially in coastal and rural regions. Your doctor can prescribe anti-malarial tablets. Besides that, you should also pack insect repellent and sleep under treated nets where available.

Also, carry a small first-aid kit. Make sure it covers band-aids, painkillers, diarrhea medication, and any prescription drugs you need. It is always good to have your essentials ready.

Pack Smart

You’ll thank yourself for packing light. Internal flights and safaris often have luggage weight limits. Here is what to include:

Clothing — Breathable, neutral-colored clothes for safaris. A light jacket for chilly mornings and evenings, especially if you are visiting highland areas like Nairobi or Maasai Mara.
Beachwear — If you are heading to Mombasa, Diani, or Watamu, pack swimwear and flip-flops.
Comfortable shoes — Sneakers for city exploring and sturdy walking shoes for safaris or hikes.
Sun protection — Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat are musts.
Plug adapters — Kenya uses the British-style Type G plug. So bring an adapter for your devices.
Camera gear — Even if you are not a pro, Kenya is incredibly photogenic.

Avoid overpacking fancy clothes. Kenya is laid-back. Even upscale lodges have a relaxed dress code.

Money and Connectivity

The local currency is the Kenyan Shilling. Of course, cards are accepted in big hotels, lodges, and malls. However, cash is still handy for local markets, smaller shops, or rural areas. You can withdraw from ATMs in major towns or exchange money at authorized bureaus. For staying connected, get a local SIM card. A prepaid data bundle will keep your maps, translations, and WhatsApp running smoothly during your trip.

Plan Your Itinerary

You cannot see all of Kenya in one trip. That is perfectly fine. Choose a few highlights instead of rushing. This is where GetTransfer can come in handy and provide a lot of useful information. A great “first-timer” route might include:

Nairobi —Visit the Giraffe Centre, Karen Blixen Museum, and local markets.
Maasai Mara — The ultimate safari experience, especially during the Great Migration.
Lake Naivasha or Nakuru — Perfect for seeing flamingos and hippos.
Coastal Kenya — End your trip with beach time in Diani, Mombasa, or Watamu.

Kenya is full of spontaneous moments. So, keep your schedule flexible enough to enjoy the unexpected.

Enjoy Your Travel

Preparing well means you can enjoy Kenya stress-free. Once you are there, you will discover a country that is as diverse as it is welcoming. It is where wildlife, culture, and scenery come together in a way that feels almost magical. So, get your paperwork sorted, pack your sense of adventure, and remember that Kenya is an experience that stays with you long after your flight home.