"Attention! Essential travel information"

"ATTENTION! ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION."

If you’re looking a Kenya Tanzania safari planning guide or seeking Kenya travel tips for 2025, we’ve curated essential information to simplify your adventure. Whether you’re exploring Tanzania Kenya combined safari tours or need off-season Kenya safari advice, our team at Blavals Adventure is here to assist with personalized guidance. For questions or additional details not covered here, contact us directly—we’re dedicated to making your East African journey unforgettable.

VISAS TO ETA SYSTEM.

It will be essential to ensure that your passport remains valid for at least six months after you arrive in the country, however, while traveling to Kenya you will not be required to have a visa. Read the following"KENYA IS GOING TO BE VISA-FREE STARTING FROM JANUARY 2024!".

YOU DO NOT REQUIRE VISA TO TRAVEL TO KENYA. INSTEAD, KENYA HAS TRANSITIONED TO ELECTRONIC TRAVEL AUTHORIZATION (ETA).

Please be advised that Kenya's Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system is now operational. All travelers, including infants and children (except citizens of Kenya and East African Community partner states) arriving in Kenya from 4th January 2024, are required to apply for ETA online via http://www.etakenya.go.ke before their arrival.

Please be advised of the below requirements for ETA applications:

REQUIREMENTS - ALL TRAVELLERS

Valid passport (6-month validity from the date of arrival in Kenya, with a minimum of one blank page)
Passport-style photo.
Contact information (home address, email address and phone number)
Itinerary details.
Accommodation booking confirmation.
Credit card, debit card, and Apple Pay for payment of $34 per person.

REQUIREMENTS - DEPENDING ON COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE / TRAVEL HISTORY

Yellow Fever certificate (if arriving from a Yellow Fever endemic country)
Additional vaccinations

Travelers are eligible to apply for ETAs within 3 months of their arrival date in Kenya. Following the application, a confirmation will be sent to the email address submitted in the application. Upon approval, the ETA will be sent to the same email address.

Standard processing time for ETAs is three working days and the status of applications can be checked at any time on the ETA website using the ETA reference number.

All previous visa entry requirements for Kenya are now replaced by the requirement of ETAs. All e-visas currently in process will be issued and travelers with existing e-visas will be granted access to Kenya within the validity period of 90 days, without the additional requirement of an ETA.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for any clarification or assistance

ADDRESS FOR REFERRED ETA COMMUNICATION:

All inquiries, where necessary, shall be made to:

The Director of Immigration Services

Nyayo House

P.O. Box 30191 00100

NAIROBI

Telephone: +25420 222 2022

Telegraphic address: “PRINCIM” Nairobi

Telex: 25396 PRINCIM

Fax: +254202220731

Email: visa@immigration.go.ke, overseasection@gmail.com

Read more about referral visas: https://evisa.go.ke/category-three-visa-regime.html.

RELATED INFORMATION ON ETA APPLICATION:

Approval Time:

The e-visa takes 48 hours to approve but can be issued in a much shorter period.

Availability in different languages will be looked into, but it poses a challenge for local Immigration Officers who may not be familiar with other languages.

Auto Save:

The ability to auto-save applications has been updated to the system. Should the system “hang,” one can refresh the page and then click on the “history” tab to access the information saved.

Payments:

The system only accepts Visa & Mastercard, and arrangements are in progress to include American Express, Union Pay, PayPal & Mpesa.

Critical to note is that when making payments, the system sends a one-time password (OTP) for the credit card owner to confirm. Failure to enter this OTP has been a cause for the decline of card payments.

Communication (in case of a hitch in the process)

Application process assistance is provided promptly

The system flashes two dedicated telephone numbers & an email that can be used to get help:

General Enquiries: +254 110 922 063 /4
Payment Issues: +254 110 922 062

System Downtime:

The ETA system has minimal downtime but is occasionally taken offline for system upgrades.

During the downtime, a message shall be displayed indicating the system was offline for upgrade and the time this would take.

Book your Kenya safari today with Blavals Adventure. Feel free to contact us via our website, call +254 725 353 994 or WhatsApp at +254 725 353 994

SAFARI AND ROADS IN KENYA:

Most of the roads in Kenya are paved, but their conditions differ depending on the remoteness of Nairobi city and regular maintenance. Rainy weather can also affect road surfaces. Roads within National Parks and game reserves are generally easy to navigate.

However, driving times from one safari point to another may vary, and they are approximate because they depend on traffic and road conditions.

CREDIT CARDS:

Major credit cards such as MasterCard, Visa, and American Express are widely accepted in Kenya. It is also recommended to carry cash in easily convertible currency. USD is accepted in many local stores and can be exchanged for Kenyan shillings without hassle.

VACCINATION:

We recommend contacting a medical professional or licensed vaccination clinic before traveling to Kenya.

ACCOMMODATION ON SAFARI: LUXURY LODGES & TENTED CAMPS IN KENYA 2024

The luxury safari lodges in Kenya, boutique hotels, and Masai Mara tented camps we’ve handpicked for your itinerary aren’t just places to sleep—they’re unforgettable experiences blending comfort, romance, and adventure. Whether you’re seeking budget Kenya safari stays or indulgent escapes, our options span economy, superior comfort (exclusive to Masai Mara), and premium eco-friendly lodges that harmonize with Kenya’s wild landscapes.

Luxury Lodges:
Our eco-friendly Kenya lodges immerse you in nature without compromising modern comforts. Think private decks overlooking savannahs, ensuite bathrooms, and amenities like swimming pools (available in most accommodations except tree lodges).

Tented Camps:
Live the safari dream in Masai Mara tented camps built on permanent foundations. These aren’t basic setups—you’ll enjoy hot water bottles at bedtime, sunrise coffee delivered to your tent, and ensuite bathrooms. Pro tip: Opt for superior comfort-tier tents in the Mara for extra space and elevated views.

Budget-Friendly Options:
Traveling light? Our budget Kenya safari stays still deliver charm, with cozy rooms and communal firepits for swapping stories under the stars.

No matter your choice, you’ll wake up ready to explore. Just pack a reusable water bottle (single-use plastics are banned in Kenya!) and let us handle the rest.

DRINKING WATER AND BOTTLED DRINKS:

It is recommended to avoid drinking tap water. You will be provided complimentary bottled drinking water in the safari vehicle during the safari.

A larger box of water bottles will also be open in your private safari car. If you prefer other beverages, such as soft drinks or beer, they can be purchased at the lodges and camps throughout the safari.

These places also have comfortable lounges with fireplaces for chilly evenings. After meals, you will be served tea or coffee.

SUGGESTED PACKING FOR A KENYA SAFARI: 2025 ESSENTIALS & ECO-FRIENDLY TIPS

Planning your Kenya safari packing list 2025? Start by splitting essentials between you and your partner’s luggage. This way, if one bag gets delayed, you’ll both still have basics like medications, copies of your Kenya e-visa documents, and a change of clothes.

Must-Have Items for Hand Luggage:

Travel documents: Passport, visa printouts, travel insurance, and flight tickets.

Health essentials: Prescriptions, malaria pills, allergy meds, pain relievers, and a doctor’s note for chronic conditions.

Valuables: Credit cards, cash (small bills for tips), cameras, and laptops.

Protect Your Gear & Planet:
Kenya bans plastic bags, so pack eco-friendly safari packing gear like reusable fabric toiletry bags and waterproof duffels. Pro tip: Even duty-free plastic bags are confiscated on arrival! For lightweight luggage Kenya flights (15kg limit on small planes), prioritize versatile clothing and leave extras at your Nairobi hotel.

Savannah-Ready Clothing & Gear:

Neutral-colored, quick-dry outfits (avoid bright colors that attract insects).

Dustproof camera bags and lens cleaners for wildlife shots.

A sturdy reusable water bottle—most camps refill them for free.

Baggage Insurance & Fees:
Extra luggage costs $5/kg on flights, and bags are stored in Nairobi. For peace of mind, safari luggage insurance Kenya is a lifesaver if gear goes missing.

PHOTOGRAPHY EQUIPMENT ON SAFARI: ESSENTIAL GEAR FOR KENYA WILDLIFE PHOTOS 2025

You don’t need the priciest camera to capture stunning Kenya wildlife photography shots—practice, patience, and the right gear matter most. While a DSLR camera for African safaris (with interchangeable lenses) is ideal, even mid-range setups can deliver jaw-dropping shots of lions on the savannah or sunsets over the Masai Mara.

Must-Have Safari Photography Gear:

Lenses: A 200-400mm telephoto lens for close-ups of leopards or elephants, paired with a 24-100mm wide-angle for sweeping African landscape photography.
Dust-proof camera care in Kenya: Cleaning kits (blower brushes, microfiber cloths) to combat the relentless red dust.
Backup batteries & memory cards: Safaris mean limited charging options—pack extras!
Binoculars: Opt for 8x42 or 10x42 models (like Nikon Monarch) to spot hidden birds or rhinos.

Pro Tips for Budget Safari Cameras:

Use burst mode to capture fast-moving wildlife.
Practice manual focus—autofocus struggles in dusty conditions.
Rent high-end lenses locally in Nairobi if you’re not ready to invest.

Why Go Pro?
A DSLR camera for African safaris lets you adapt to Kenya’s harsh light and unpredictable action. For video, modern DSLRs shoot 4K, but pack a lightweight tripod for stable footage on bumpy roads.

Final Checklist:

Waterproof backpack (plastic bags are banned!)
Silica gel packs to reduce lens fog in humid reserves like Amboseli.
Portable power bank for multi-day mobile tented camp stays.

SUGGESTED EQUIPMENT LIST FOR SAFARI

Camera
Telephoto lenses (ideally covering 24-100mm and 200-400mm range)
Cleaning equipment for lens
Extra batteries
Battery charger
Memory cards
Camera bag
Zip lock bags (dust proof) Not plastic bags as they are banned in Kenya, so you may use a cloth alternative
Beanbag (for Camera stability during photography)

BEST TIME FOR KENYA SAFARI: MASAI MARA MIGRATION & SEASONAL GUIDE 2025

Kenya’s best safari seasons span year-round, but timing your visit around the Masai Mara wildebeest migration 2025 guarantees iconic wildlife spectacles. Here’s your month-by-month breakdown:

January-March (High Season):

Why go: Dry landscapes post-short rains offer unobstructed views of lions, elephants, and migratory birds from Europe like European rollers.

Tip: Book Amboseli National Park for epic Kilimanjaro-backdrop photos.

April-May (Low Season/Long Rains):

Kenya rainy season safari perks: Fewer crowds, lush greenery, and newborn animals. Showers usually last 1-2 hours midday—pack a waterproof camera cover!

June (Post-Rain Sweet Spot):

Zebra herds arrive in the Masai Mara from Tanzania’s Serengeti.

Pro move: Combine Mara visits with Laikipia Plateau for rhino tracking.

July-October (Peak Migration):

Witness: 1.5 million wildebeest crossing the Mara River (peak mid-July to September).

Sightings: Predator action, calving season, hot-air balloon safaris.

November-December (Shoulder Season/Short Rains):

Kenya shoulder season safari advantage: Lower rates + reborn grasslands ideal for cheetah sightings.

Avoid: Coastal areas (heavy rainfall); focus on Tsavo East’s red elephants.

Local Insight: While the Great Migration in Masai Mara typically starts in July, climate shifts have pushed it earlier some years. We are ready to offer you real-time herd updates.

Statistics	JAN	FEB	MAR	APR	MAY	JUN	JUL	AUG	SEP	OCT	NOV	DEC
Rain (mm)	58	50	92	242	190	39	18	24	31	61	150	108
Rain days	4	4	8	15	13	5	3	4	4	7	14	9
Day Temp	26	27	27	25	24	23	22	23	25	26	24	24
Night Temp	11	11	12	13	12	10	9	9	10	11	13	12
Sunshine hours	288	266	267	204	189	159	130	127	180	226	198	257

SAFARI CLOTHING:

When packing for your safari trip, it is recommended to bring casual summer clothes that are easy to launder and quick to dry. Opt for neutral colors that don't reflect heat and don't show dust.

Since the mornings and evenings can be cool, layering is suggested. Most safari lodges and tented camps offer laundry services to help you refresh your clothing supply as needed. As much of the time on safari is spent in the vehicle, wearing lightweight and comfortable walking shoes is appropriate.

The dress code is casual, even in the evening. Bright and straightforward attire is proper for dinner in Nairobi and at the Mount Kenya Safari Club. Due to the high altitudes, you will be exposed to the sun a great deal, so it's easy to sunburn quickly.

Packaging a swimsuit and cover-up is advised, as most safari accommodations offer swimming pools.

CURRENCY:

Kenya's official currency is the Kenyan shilling (KSH). You can check the current exchange rate online. If you have foreign currency, you can exchange it for shillings at a forex bureau, and the best rates are available at the airport.

It's recommended to keep small cash denominations for tipping and minor expenses. ATMs accept VISA & MasterCard; you can withdraw Kenya shillings using them. USD, Euro, and British pounds are widely accepted in many outlets.

It's advisable to exchange money only as needed. For small purchases, it's best to use local currencies, and you'll usually receive a better price and change when required. You can exchange money at all lodges and hotels, but the best exchange rates are available at the Forex Bureaus at the airport or in Nairobi city.

CUSTOM DUTY KENYA:

Kenya's customs regulations allow one duty-free bottle of spirits, 200 cigarettes, a reasonable amount of camera equipment, film, and one tape recorder.

SAFARI DRIVER / GUIDE:

Your safari guide or driver is critical to your safari tour experience. You'll spend several days together, during which they'll share the marvels of Kenya's geography, history, and wildlife. Every safari guide is a local Kenyan, well-versed in their country's traditions and cultural heritage.

They possess exceptional knowledge of local flora and fauna, tribal lore, and regional geography.

ELECTRICITY:

The voltage in the place you are traveling to is 220. However, the plugs there differ from those in North America or Europe. We recommend carrying a set of international adapter plugs and a voltage converter to avoid any inconvenience.

The most commonly used adapter plugin that region has 3 square prongs.

IMPORTANT INFO

Note that lodges in the game parks may turn off their generators during the day and late at night (11 pm – 6 am). This means that there will be no electricity during this time.

Please recharge your video camera batteries when the electricity is available or bring extra batteries.

FEES & TAXES:

The price of the safari tour includes government taxes and service charges for accommodations and meals, entrance fees to national parks and game reserves, and game ranger services (where required).

We will provide a detailed breakdown of all inclusions and exclusions upon safari booking/confirmation.

GAME TROPHIES:

It is important to note that in Kenya, selling any products made from wild animals, such as hides and skins, rhino horns, elephant-hair bracelets, crocodile handbags, and other similar items, is illegal.

Additionally, ivory is not legally sold in Kenya. Bringing any items made from elephant, rhino, or crocodile products into the United States is also illegal.

SAFARI GRATUITIES/TIPPING:

All gratuities for hotel, lodges, and porterage services are included in the price of your safari. These are known as service charges. It is up to your discretion to tip individual servers, porters, and other service providers who provide exemplary service.

However, it is customary to tip the driver/guide at the end of your safari tour. The amount you choose to give depends on your evaluation of the quality of service provided. We suggest an average of $10 per guest per day. However, the amount is entirely up to you, and you are welcome to give extra compensation to any staff who have gone above and beyond their duties.

A bar gratuity of $1 is acceptable.

TRAVEL INSURANCE:

It is highly recommended for travelers to have medical insurance, as they will be personally responsible for any medical expenses that may arise during their trip. We provide temporary evacuation coverage for the flying doctor's service as part of our service.

LANGUAGES:

Kenya is a country with a rich variety of dialects and local languages. While English is the official language, Kiswahili is the national language. These two languages provide a common identity for the people of Kenya.

English is also the primary language of instruction in all schools. Learning a few Swahili phrases in advance would be wise to make the most out of your interactions with the locals.

LAUNDRY:

Laundry services are available at safari lodges and camps where more than one night is spent. Dry cleaning is only available in Nairobi and Mombasa.

MEALS:

You won't have to worry about meals during your safari as they are all included. From lunch on day one until lunch on the last day of your safari tour, your respective lodge or tented camp will provide all meals. In the case of full-day game viewing and long-day drives, packed or picnic lunches will be provided.

The quality of the cuisine in East Africa game lodges and camps is excellent as all ingredients, including meats, vegetables, and fruits, are freshly sourced from the surrounding farmland areas. Additionally, your respective accommodations are happy to cater to individual dietary requests.

MEDICAL FACILITIES:

Nairobi offers top-notch international medical facilities, and most camps and lodges have a doctor available who is experienced in treating common travel-related ailments. We recommend that you verify your health insurance policy to ensure sufficient coverage, as any additional medical expenses incurred after returning to Nairobi will be your responsibility to cover.

SAFETY:

When visiting any place, it is essential to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. The same goes for your visit here. Please be cautious and exercise common sense. We recommend not leaving cash, jewelry, or valuables unattended in your hotel room. Each lodge or hotel provides a deposit facility where you can safeguard your valuables. It is also advisable to avoid wearing flashy jewelry and leaving handbags and photographic equipment unattended in public places.

SAFARI SOUVENIR SHOPPING:

Nairobi has a wide variety of shops and markets where you can purchase beautiful and affordable items such as baskets, copper jewelry, batik cloth, beads, carvings, Kenya coffee, and tea. You can also find boutiques selling fine art, handicrafts, gemstones, and jewelry, including tanzanite, a semiprecious stone mined locally.

Wooden items are the most popular, from small trinkets like animal head salad spoons and letter openers to world-class ebony sculptures. You will also find carved soapstone items like napkin rings, candlesticks, and chess sets. Sisal and baobab bags come in various sizes, styles, shapes, and colors, which are much more artistic and unique than those available in the US market.

East African artisans have created stunning original pieces and faithful reproductions in response to the growing appreciation of tribal artifacts. You can find drums, headrests, stools, shields, beaded necklaces, and belts from various parts of the region.

Some of the most prized pieces feature elaborately worked silver, malachite, and amber beads. We recommend taking all items you purchase because shipping and duty costs can exceed the item's cost. If you must have large items shipped, please note that freight costs can be hundreds of dollars.

TRANSFERS TO AND FROM THE AIRPORT

We offer free transfers from the airport to the hotel upon your arrival, and we'll also transfer you back to the Nairobi airport when it's time for you to depart. To ensure a smooth transfer experience, we kindly request that you share your flight details with us for your arrival and departure.

SAFARI TRANSPORTATION:

Our experienced and knowledgeable safari driver guides will pick you up from Nairobi Airport, a local hotel, or a local residence and take you on a safari adventure.

They will also guide you on other sightseeing tours and return you to the hotel or airport on your last day. A critical factor in ensuring an enjoyable safari trip is the quality of the safari vehicle. As much of the journey involves long hours on the trail with wildlife, the quality of the ground vehicle is of the utmost importance.

Each comfortable safari vehicle can accommodate a maximum of 6-7 guests, guaranteeing a window seat and access to the pop-up roof hatch. Our safari driver guides have a mechanical background and can handle simple automated calls in case of emergencies.

DRIVING DISTANCE AND TIME ON SAFARI:

Nairobi – Amboseli: 240 km, approx. 4 hours
Amboseli – Lake Naivasha: 350 km, approx. 6-7 hours
Lake Naivasha – Masai Mara: 250 km, approx. 4-5 hours
Masai Mara – Nairobi: 265 km, approx. 6 hours
Nairobi – Samburu: 320 km, approx. 6-7 hours
Samburu – Lake Naivasha: 340 km, approx. 6-7 hours
Nairobi – Ol Pejeta: 220 km approx., 4 hours
Nairobi – Lake Nakuru: 160 km approx., 3 hours
Nairobi – Lake Naivasha: 100 km, approx. 2 hours
Mombasa – Tsavo East: 120Km, approx., 3 hours
Mombasa – Tsavo West: 240Km, approx. 4 hours
Tsavo West – Amboseli: 100Km, approx. 2 hours
Amboseli – Masai Mara: 520 Km, approx. 9 hours
Tsavo East – Amboseli: 300 Km, approx. 5 hours

All driving times are approximate and may vary depending on weather, road conditions, and traffic density.

MASAI VILLAGE VISIT AT MASAI MARA

If you want to visit a Masai village (manyatta), kindly discuss this with your safari guide. It is suggested that a donation of 20 USD per person be made directly to the village chief. Despite the introduction of money and some modern influence, the Masai culture has retained much of its original authenticity.

LUNCH AND DRINKS DURING SAFARI

All meals, including picnic lunches, are included in the tour price. Bottled drinks, including beers, colas, wines, and spirits, are settled directly by you.

TIME DIFFERENCE:

Kenya is 3 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+3).

MOSQUITO NET:

Mosquitoes usually come out in the evening when the sun sets and the temperature drops. This is when most mosquito bites happen. We recommend wearing long pants and a long-sleeved shirt to avoid being bitten. Protecting any exposed parts of your body with insect repellent is also essential. All safari lodges and camps have mosquito nets over the beds to ensure you have a peaceful and safe sleep.

CHARGING OF MOBILE PHONES AND OTHER ELECTRICAL ITEMS

Please note that most hotels and lodges switch off their generators after 11 pm. Therefore, carrying a small flashlight with you during your stay is advisable. The electrical sockets in this area use three flat pin plugs similar to those in the West and are rated at 240 volts.

CHECK-IN / OUT OF THE HOTELS

When checking into a hotel or lodge, you must fill out a registration card at the front desk before receiving your room key. Check-in is usually after 11 am, while check-out is generally before 10 am. During check-out, you must settle any outstanding bills for drinks or meals from the hotel's restaurant or bar. Additionally, an instructional talk will introduce you to the hotel's amenities and policies upon check-in.

IMPORTANT ITEMS TO BRING ITEMS TO BRING WITH YOU

- Bring bright summer clothes for safari trips, but avoid intense colors that can attract flies.

- Pack nicer clothes for evenings at the hotel or lodge.

- Long pants and long-sleeved shirts are recommended for protection against mosquitoes and the sun.

- Bring a good jacket for the cool mornings and evenings.

- Wear summer footwear and cotton socks, and avoid bare feet and legs at night due to mosquitoes.

- Bring a power adaptor with 3-4 sockets to charge your electronics.

- Other essential items include a small flashlight, extra batteries, a hat, sunscreen, lip balm, mosquito repellent, nail clippers, and a file.

HERE ARE SOME ESSENTIAL ITEMS THAT YOU SHOULD CARRY IN YOUR HAND LUGGAGE.

Passports, money, tickets
Sunglasses
Medication you use at home (always in your hand luggage, just in case you lose your suitcase!)
Hand Medicine: analgesic, allergy pills, remedy for diarrhea (maybe Imodium), malaria pills, plasters and disinfectant wipes
Binoculars (so you can see the leopard way out there in the tree!)
Camera and memory cards more than you expect to use, including a battery charger and a bag to protect the camera from Africa’s fine, red dust
Shoulder bag with sturdy strap and zip. A money belt or good inside pockets that can be zipped up
A few photocopies of all personal documents such as passports, visas, flights, travel insurance, vaccination cards, international debit cards (Master Card, Visa credit cards, etc.), driving license
Telephone list for immediate blocking of lost debit cards and insurance
Mail addresses of those you wish to send postcards or messages to.
Notebook and pens
A good book or something to keep you entertained on the flight

SAFARI BOOKING TERMS & CONDITIONS.

Please carefully review our booking terms and conditions, which form the basis of your package purchased from Blavals Adventure. Click here to read our terms and conditions.

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