Kenya for First-Timers: Essential Travel Tips

Plugs and voltage

Kenya uses the Type G three-rectangular-pin plug, the same as the UK. The supply is 240V at 50Hz, so check that your chargers handle 240V (most phone and laptop bricks do — look for "100-240V"). Bring a UK-style adapter, or buy one cheaply in Nairobi at supermarkets like Naivas or Carrefour. Power cuts happen, so a power bank and a small head-torch are genuinely useful, especially on safari camps that run on generators or solar.

Language basics

Kenya has two official languages: Swahili (Kiswahili) and English. English is widely spoken in cities, hotels and on safari, but a few Swahili words earn warm smiles.

• Jambo — hello
• Habari? — how are you?
• Asante (sana) — thank you (very much)
• Karibu — welcome / you're welcome
• Hakuna matata — no worries
• Pole pole — slowly, slowly (a useful travel philosophy)

What to pack

• Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing for game drives; avoid bright white and dark blue (the latter attracts tsetse flies)
• A warm fleece — Nairobi sits at 1,795m and mornings on safari are cold
• Strong sunscreen, a brimmed hat and good sunglasses
• Insect repellent with DEET and antimalarials (consult your doctor)
• A copy of your yellow-fever certificate if arriving from a risk country

Connectivity

Safaricom has the best coverage, including many safari areas; Airtel is a cheaper alternative. Mobile money via M-Pesa is everywhere — many shops, matatus and even small kiosks prefer it to cash. You'll need your eSIM or data working to stay practical day to day.

Quick tips

• Carry small Kenyan shilling notes for tips, matatus and markets
• Agree taxi fares first, or use Bolt and Uber in Nairobi and Mombasa
• Tap water isn't safe to drink — stick to bottled or filtered water
• Tip safari guides around 10 USD per day; restaurant service is often included
• Book national park entry and the SGR train (Nairobi–Mombasa) in advance
• Greet people before getting to business — courtesy matters here
• Always ask before photographing people, especially Maasai communities
• Keep your passport copy on you and the original locked in the safe

Stay connected in Kenya

A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online the moment you land, so maps, translation and bookings just work with no roaming bills.