Emergency
Dial 999 for police, 999 for fire services, and 999 or 112 for medical emergencies to get immediate assistance during urgent or critical situations.
Dial 999 for police, 999 for fire services, and 999 or 112 for medical emergencies to get immediate assistance during urgent or critical situations.
Tea is a central part of Kenyan hospitality. Visitors are often welcomed with a hot cup of chai, a blend of tea, milk, and spices.
The next public holiday in Kenya is New Year's Day, celebrated on January 1, 2025, with festivities and traditions marking the new year.
Tap water is not considered safe to drink, and it’s advised to drink bottled water instead, as it’s the safer option for consumption.
SafariNow is a popular platform in Kenya, offering vacation rentals, including lodges, cottages, and safari stays for all budgets and preferences.
Toilet paper is used, but in some areas, it’s advised to dispose of it in a bin rather than flushing, as plumbing systems may not handle it well.
It is generally safe for tourists, with friendly locals and good infrastructure. Visitors should stay alert in crowds, respect customs, and be cautious of wildlife, currents, and scams.
Kenyan cuisine is a vibrant mix of fresh ingredients, featuring dishes like ugali, nyama choma, and sukuma wiki, with an emphasis on maize, greens, and flavorful spices.
About Kenyan Time:
Tourist: “What does ‘I’ll be there soon’ mean in Kenya?”
Local: “It means you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the view while waiting!”
In Nairobi, public transport, including buses and matatus, mainly uses cash payments. Mobile payments like M-Pesa are accepted, but contactless card payments are not common.
Nairobi TransportIn Kenya, two main intercity bus operators are Easy Coach, known for its excellent service and wide network, and Modern Coast, offering luxury coach services across Kenya and East Africa.
Easy CoachVolunteers can assist with education through programs like International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), which offers opportunities to teach English, math, and science in schools around Nairobi.
IVHQThe Maasai people, known for their distinctive clothing and traditions, are one of the most iconic ethnic groups in Tanzania and Kenya.
Kenya hosts a large section of the Great Rift Valley, a geological wonder stretching over 6,000 kilometers, with lakes, volcanoes, and diverse wildlife.
Renowned for its wildlife, including the "Big Five" (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros), and famous game reserves like the Maasai Mara.
The Kenyan coast, particularly around Mombasa and Malindi, boasts beautiful white sandy beaches, coral reefs, and Swahili culture.
Elders are highly respected in Kenyan society. Younger people often greet them first and may bow slightly or use polite titles as a sign of respect.
In many Kenyan cultures, the left hand is considered impolite to use for greetings or eating, as it is associated with unclean tasks.