Kenya travel details
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Kenya has a population of 47M with main currency as Kenyan Shilling. The languages spoken are English. Kenya travel safety advice is Exercise a high degree of caution. Automatic teller machines are rare in Kenya. Tipping is expected in Kenya since staff depend on tips to supplement their often minimum wages. Internet speed in Kenya is on average 5.0 Mbps.
Kenya travel advice
⬤ Exercise a high degree of caution
We continue to advise exercise a high degree of caution in Kenya due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime. Higher levels apply in some areas. Terrorists continue to maintain a strong interest in attacking foreigners in Nairobi and other major population centres in Kenya. Attacks could occur at any time, with little or no warning. Avoid areas prone to attack and remain vigilant if visiting public areas (see 'Safety'). To enter Kenya, you need to apply online for an electronic travel authorisation prior to travel (see 'Travel').
We advise:
Exercise a high degree of caution in Kenya overall due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime.
Higher levels apply in some areas.
Issue Date : May 29, 2024
Kenya weather
Kenya essential details
Plugs
Kenya uses 240V, 50Hz with socket and plug Type G.
Languages
The languages that are typically spoken are English
Money in Kenya
Currencies
Kenya uses the Kenyan shilling (symbol: Sh), code KES.Banknotes come in denominations of 1000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20 and 10 shillings. Shilling is subdivided into 100 cents. Coins come in denominations of 40, 20, 10, 5 and 1 shillings and 50 cents.
ATM
Automatic teller machines are rare in Kenya. Your best bet is to look for them in large cities and community places.You do not need a chip & PIN card to use an ATM — your standard magnetic card will work fine.
Tipping
Expected to tip Tipping is expected in Kenya since staff depend on tips to supplement their often minimum wages.
Internet in Kenya
Internet
Internet speed in Kenya is on average 5.0 Mbps. WiFi coverage in Kenya is low. It is not as easy to find one.
Phones
You can buy a SIM card for about 1,147.22 KES, which includes 2 GB of data plan. You can choose from 4 telecoms: Airtel, Faiba, Safaricom or Telkom. Kenya uses GSM mobile networks GSM 900 and GSM 1800. If you don't want to buy SIM card in Kenya upon arrival, make sure to check the roaming charges with your telecom provider before your departure so there are no surprises when you return home.
Calling
To call Kenya, dial +, then 254 (the country code for Kenya), then the area code (without the initial 0) and the local number. For local calls within Kenya, start with the area code (with the initial 0). In the case above area code is 20 .
Kenya travel details
Driving in Kenya
Kenya map
Kenya visa advice
If you're considering exploring Kenya beyond the usual transit spots, our comprehensive guide on Kenya transit visa offers deeper insights and broader options for travelers of different nationalities. For those transiting through other countries en route to Kenya, understanding Kenya Transit Visa requirements is crucial to ensure a smooth journey.