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Kenya

Visitor Information

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 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

GETTING AROUND

Air / flights:	International Flights Regional flights from Kenya throughout Africa Click for flights from Europe with KLM Domestic Flights Domestic flights within Kenya departing Nairobi and Mombasa
Train:	Kenya has an efficient and comfortable rail service connecting Nairobi to Mombasa, Kisumu and Malaba,. The overnight Nairobi-Mombasa service offers first and second class options but it is popular and for most of the time you need to book in advance
Bus:	A wide network of buses runs throughout the country connecting almost every town. It is cheaper to travel by bus than train and often quicker but sometimes crowded. Matatus are a common form of mini-bus, but they are packed and are often involved in accidents. and are best avoided if possible Scandinavia Express Services Cross border Bus Service between Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia
Self Drive	Kenya has an extensive network of roads, mostly sealed and passable throughout the year. You may have problems on unsealed roads, particular in the game reserves, during the rains if you don't have 4 wheel drive. Driving is on the left hand side and although not required it is convenient for you to have an International Driving Licence. You can drive on your own valid licence but you need to get it endorsed at the Road Transport Office in Nairobi. As well as all the major international car hire firms, there are numerous local ones as well and it is worth shopping around for the best deal. Always compare the inclusive insurance. Most companies require renters to be over 23 years of age and under 70 and must have held a licence for at least 2 years. Most reputable car hire firms are members of the Automobile Association of East Africa and have road patrols on the major highways. Nearly all lodges in the Parks have resident mechanics. Kenya - Maps & Atlases for Sale

Car Hire:	Car Rental in Kenya	Discount online bookings for reliable rental cars in Kenya. Click to view prices and make reservation

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

1st January	New Years' Day
1st May	Labour Day
1st June
11th June	Kanu Day
10th October	Moi Day
20th October	Kenyetta Day
12th December	Independence Day
25th December	Christmas Day
26th December	Boxing Day
Moveable holidays	Good Friday and Easter Monday and variable Muslim 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.

You can check out the following websites which specialise in long term travellers, adventure travellers, backpackers and workers based abroad.

	Insure and Go - UK Travellers whether it's for a one off holiday or if you travel many times over the year, if you're off backpacking before university or you're retired and looking to explore the world; if you're after winter sports cover or if it's for a business trip, a wedding abroad or a golfing weekend away, we have a policy at the right price to ensure you have the peace of mind that you are covered for the unexpected while you're away.

	- UK Travellers Offering a full range of policies, single trip, young travellers, long stay, annual cover for UK residents. Get your quote and policy on-line....

	Insure My Trip - USA travellers offer 63 different travel insurance plans from 14 different companies - no other site has such product depth or comparison features. You can compare each policy giving you the information you need to make an informed decision about your travel insurance needs. .

	Downunder Insurance - UK - Australia and New Zealand Travellers offers travel insurance to travellers and residents in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Our cover ranges from basic to highly comprehensive, with affordable policies aimed at backpackers and gap-year students, but with cover available to travellers and holiday makers up to 55 years of age.