Best time to visit

The best time to visit Kenya is during the dry seasons, from January to March and July to October. These periods offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities, especially in the Maasai Mara during the Great Migration. The weather is generally pleasant, with fewer chances of rain, making it ideal for safaris, beach holidays along the Indian Ocean coast, and exploring national parks. The wet seasons, from April to June and November to December, bring heavy rains that can disrupt travel and make some roads impassable, but they also offer lush landscapes and fewer tourists.

What to expect

Language: Kenya has two official languages: English and Swahili. English is widely used in government, business, and education, while Swahili (Kiswahili) is spoken across the country as a lingua franca.

Currency: The currency of Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling (KES).

Safety: Kenya is generally safe for tourists, but caution is advised. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur, particularly in crowded places and tourist hotspots. Travelers should be vigilant, avoid displaying valuables, and use hotel safes for their belongings. Some areas, particularly near the borders with Somalia, South Sudan, and Ethiopia, are considered higher risk due to potential terrorist activity and ethnic conflicts. It is recommended to stay informed about the current situation and follow advice from local authorities and travel advisories.

Cuisine: Kenyan cuisine is diverse and influenced by the country’s various ethnic groups. Some popular dishes include: Ugali: A staple made from maize flour (cornmeal) cooked to a dough-like consistency, often served with meat, vegetables, or fish. Nyama Choma: Grilled meat, typically goat or beef, seasoned and cooked over an open flame, often enjoyed with sides like kachumbari (tomato and onion salad). Sukuma Wiki: A dish made from collard greens, usually sautéed with onions and tomatoes, and served as a side. Chapati: A flatbread of Indian origin, commonly served with stews and vegetable dishes. Samosas: Fried or baked pastries filled with spiced meat or vegetables, a popular snack or appetizer.