Frequently Asked Questions

As in many major cities worldwide, you should take sensible precautions when visiting urban areas. Pickpockets, bag-snatchers, and con artists do exist, so remain aware of your surroundings. Avoid dealing with street vendors or bystanders unless accompanied by your tour driver or guide.

Be smart with valuables:

• Avoid wearing jewellery

• Keep cameras, wallets, and handbags out of sight (preferably in a hotel safe)

• Carry only small amounts of cash

• Walk in groups and stay on main roads

• Avoid walking at night

Do not leave money or valuables unattended in rooms or vehicles.

On the beaches—especially in tourist areas—beach traders may approach you. Simply decline politely but firmly, and they will usually move on. Avoid walking on the beach at dawn, dusk, or after dark.

These precautions may sound worrying, but such issues are common in many destinations and are easily avoided with basic care.

The dry months are ideal for safaris, especially camping or walking safaris. Mountain climbing is best from December to March, when conditions are dry and visibility is excellent. The months of June and November are not recommended for climbing Mount Kenya or Mount Kilimanjaro.

Month-by-Month Guide

January – Hot, sunny, peak tourist season.
February – Hot and sunny; wildebeest calving season in southern Serengeti.
March – Warm, mostly sunny; occasional showers; still high season.
April – Start of the long rains; showers can be heavy but rarely all day. Prices drop after Easter.
May – Rains may continue; very green and scenic with wildflowers.
June – Usually dry; lush landscapes; lower prices; pleasant weather.
July – Cooler and dry; high season; wildebeest migration begins arriving in the Masai Mara.
August – Warm and dry; peak migration crossings of the Mara River; very busy in Mara.
September – Warm and sunny; herds begin returning to the Serengeti; fewer tourists.
October – Trees in bloom; clear skies; short rains may begin late in the month.
November – Warm with short showers; mid-season tourism.
December – Early short rains, then sunny and hot; Christmas/New Year is peak season.

Malaria is present in much of East Africa, but safe preventive medications are available—consult your doctor for advice.

• Bring insect repellent.

• Wear long trousers, socks, and long sleeves in the evenings.

• Most accommodations provide mosquito nets or screening.

Drink only bottled water and avoid ice. Be cautious with salads and wash fruit before eating. Seafood is best enjoyed at the coast.

Be mindful of the sun—even in cooler high-altitude areas—and use sunblock, hats, and protective clothing.

Absolutely—children typically love both safaris and beach stays.
East Africans are very welcoming to families, and many hotels, lodges, and camps have swimming pools and child-friendly activities.

Children under 12 often receive discounted rates when sharing a room with parents, and many properties can accommodate extra beds. Early meals can usually be arranged.

The only exceptions are tree hotels, where nighttime wildlife viewing requires silence.

For families, a private safari is often better than joining a group tour, offering more flexibility, shorter travel days, and family-friendly accommodation choices.

We strongly recommend comprehensive medical insurance with evacuation coverage.
You may also join the Flying Doctor’s Society, which provides emergency air evacuation within Kenya for a small membership fee.

Travel insurance covering baggage loss, liability, trip cancellation, and curtailment is also advisable.

Travellers’ cheques and major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and, to a lesser extent, American Express) are widely accepted in Kenya, but less so in some neighboring countries. A small amount of U.S. dollars in cash is useful.

Carry only limited cash and exchange money only at authorized banks or official bureaus.
There is no restriction on bringing foreign currency into the country, but you may not leave with significant amounts of local currency. Exchange or spend your shillings before departure.

It is an offense to deface or destroy local currency.
For the best exchange rates, use banks at the international airports or major towns rather than hotels or lodges.