Travel Facts

Excellent, well-stocked gift shops can be found in may hotels, lodges and camps throughout the country. But often-real finds can be found a little further off the beaten track. Bargaining is the expected norm in Markets and even in some shops throughout Kenya. The art of bargaining has deep roots in Kenyan culture, and is regarded as an essential business skill. Visitors to Kenya should never be afraid to bargain, it is expected and rarely considered offensive. Opening prices are always an exaggerated gambit, and considered the first step in a long process of bargaining. The basic rule of bargaining is this: Bargain hard but don’t be unreasonable. Most shops open from 0830-1730hrs on weekdays and 0900-1300hrs on Saturdays.

Business travelers to East Africa will find all of the facilities they need are widely available. Many hotels and resorts throughout the region offer corporate rates and discounts and have modern, efficient business centres with complete computer, telecommunication and Internet services.

One of the key ingredients for any successful conference is location. We offer something new for conference planners and organizers. We have more options than you could ever imagine for a conference with a real difference. Many of our top class hotels, safari lodges, beach resorts, and even tented bush camps offer world-class conference facilities. These include conference halls and private meeting rooms, audiovisual and multimedia services and telecommunications. These facilities, combined with comfortable surrounds, well appointed accommodation and fine cuisine, means that you can hold a professional, effective conference in the wild. We offer the perfect combination of work and play. Your time outside of the conference room can be spent exploring the wilderness, taking game drives, hikes or visiting local villages. What better way than develop team strength and strategy than to take your delegates on a challenging adventure safari? Rock climbing, white water rafting, came trekking and more are all available. Imagine ending your day’s meetings and discussions with a classic safari sun downer. Your group can gather for drinks around a campfire, as day gives way to night and the air rings with the calls of the wild. In this magical atmosphere, minds become more open, creative and focused. When you’re planning this year’s conference, consider East Africa..

Many people dream of visiting East Africa. If you are looking for the perfect incentive travel option for your employees, affiliates or partners, why not let their dreams come true and offer them an African safari? Putting together the perfect safari package to suit any individual needs and interests couldn’t be any easier. With our world of safari options, you’ll be spoil for choice.

We offer the traveler an unparalleled range of options. The incredible diversity of landscapes, cultures, wildlife and activities mean endless opportunities. With so many choices at hand, some people find the prospect of planning a trip quite daunting. It doesn’t have to be that way. With us it is very easy to plan and prepare for a safari that is as individual as you are, and that satisfies your own personal needs and interests.

Whether you are traveling solo or looking for a family trip, we have plenty of options to suit. Think in advance about whether or not you’d like to join an organized safari group, or have your own private transport and guides. We have plenty to keep the single traveler busy. Organized safaris and camping trips are often great social experiences and a good way to meet other travelers. East Africa is popular with independent travelers, and is quite easy to meet up with travelling companions on the road. For couples, East Africa is a perfect destination for a relaxing break. We have many secluded, private guesthouses, camps and hotels ideal for romantic stays or honeymoons. It is also a great family destination. Kids love it , and the sights and experiences of a safari can outdo any theme park. There are hotels that cater especially for families and have special facilities, programs and safari guides for children.

If you’re looking for five-star luxury accommodations, you’ll find an abundance of exceptional options. But if you prefer a more rugged, authentic experience far from the comforts of modern life, that can be arranged just as easily. There’s no need to worry about logistics or travel time—we take care of everything for you.

Whether you want to use light aircraft to avoid long road journeys or enjoy the thrill of driving through the countryside, your safari can be tailored to your style. We can design an itinerary that perfectly blends adventure and relaxation, luxury and simplicity, social interaction and peaceful solitude.

A valid passport is mandatory for all foreign visitors entering Kenya, Tanzania, or Uganda. Visa requirements vary by nationality, though most travelers will need a visa for these countries.
We recommend checking the latest information with the nearest consulate of Kenya, Tanzania, or Uganda.
While visas can be obtained upon arrival at major airports, the process may be slow. For convenience, we advise securing your visa before traveling.

Malaria is present in certain parts of Kenya. Visitors should begin taking malaria prophylaxis two weeks before arrival, continue throughout their stay, and for at least three weeks after leaving Kenya.
Bottled mineral water is widely available in hotels, lodges, and shops. Filtered drinking water is usually provided in rooms, but avoid drinking tap water, river water, or lake water, and do not swim in rivers or lakes.

A Yellow Fever and Cholera vaccination certificate is required for entry into Kenya if arriving from infected regions. Tanzania requires a Yellow Fever certificate regardless of your country of origin.
All travelers are advised to consult their doctor before departure. Malaria prevention is strongly recommended.

Kenya uses the decimal system with the Kenyan Shilling (KES) divided into 100 cents.
Exchange rates fluctuate, so visitors should check regularly. Banks usually offer better rates than hotels.
Defacing Kenyan currency is a serious offense. Avoid dealing with street money changers—use only official exchange services.

Banks and Bureau de Change offices are available in Nairobi, Mombasa, and major towns.
Banking hours are 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Monday–Friday), with some branches opening 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. on Saturdays.

A service charge is typically included in hotel and restaurant bills. However, tipping for exceptional service is always appreciated.

• Bar service & porters: 10%

• Restaurants without service charge: 5%–10%

As in most major tourist destinations, visitors are advised not to leave valuables in their hotel rooms but to use hotel safes.
Avoid walking in back streets at night—use taxis or rental cars instead.
Kenya has a reliable police force, and most hotels employ trained security personnel.

Standard check-out time in Kenya is 10:00 a.m. regardless of your departure time.
Late check-out or day rooms may be available depending on hotel occupancy and will incur an additional charge.

We book double rooms with private bathrooms whenever possible. Single rooms are available at a supplementary cost but cannot be guaranteed, especially in national parks.
Hotels listed in your itinerary indicate the category; you may be accommodated in comparable alternatives.

Film and basic supplies are available in most lodges, though limited. Nairobi and Mombasa have a wider selection.
For wildlife photography, a 200–300mm telephoto lens is recommended. Pack extra batteries, lens hoods, and UV filters.
It is illegal to photograph the Head of State, military sites, police, and similar government installations.
Always seek permission before photographing people.

Please pack lightly—space on safari vehicles and domestic flights is limited. Most internal flights allow 15 kg (33 lbs) per person. Extra luggage can be stored at our offices in Nairobi, Arusha, or Kampala.

Recommended Items:

• 1–2 pairs of shorts

• 2 pairs long trousers or skirts

• Swimsuit

• Smart evening outfit

• T-shirts

• Long-sleeved shirt or blouse

• Sweater/pullover

• Comfortable shoes + safari boots

• Enough underwear and socks for 3 days

• Sports bra (helpful on bumpy roads)

• Light sleepwear

• Personal toiletries & insect repellent

• Small carry-on bag

• Camera + extra film/memory

• Sunblock, hat, sunglasses

• Essential documents: passport, vaccination certificates, airline tickets, money, credit cards