CLIMATE

Kenya’s different topographical regions experience distinct climates. The coastal region is largely humid and wet. The city of Malindi, for instance, receives an average rainfall of 1,050 mm (41 in) per year, with average temperatures ranging from 21° to 32°C (70° to 90°F) in January and 20° to 29°C (68° to 84°F) in July.

Rainfall occurs seasonally throughout most of Kenya. The coast, eastern plateaus, and Lake Basin experience two rainy seasons: the “long rains” extends roughly from March to June, and the “short rains” lasts from approximately October to December. The highlands of western Kenya have a single rainy season, lasting from March to September. All parts of the country are subject to periodic droughts, or delays in the start of the rainy seasons. Kenya’s climate has had a profound effect on settlement patterns, as for centuries population has been concentrated in the wettest areas of the country.

The low plateau area is the driest part of the country. There, the town of Wajir receives an average annual rainfall of 320 mm (13 in) and experiences average temperatures ranging from 19° to 37°C (66° to 99°F) in January and 19° to 34°C (66° to 93°F) in July.

Nairobi, in the temperate Kenya highlands, receives an average annual rainfall of 790 mm (31 in) and experiences average temperatures ranging from 9° to 29°C (48° to 84°F) in January and 7° to 26°C (45° to 79°F) in July. Higher elevation areas within the highlands receive much larger amounts of rainfall.

The Lake Victoria basin in western Kenya is generally the wettest region in the country, particularly the highland regions to the north and south of Kisumu, where average annual rainfall ranges from 1,740 mm (70 in) to 1,940 mm (80 in). Average temperatures in this region range from 14° to 34°C (57° to 93°F) in January and 14° to 30°C (57° to 86°F) in July.

HEALTH
Visitors to Kenya are advised to take Anti-Malaria Prophylactics before and on safari because there is prevalent of mosquitoes in the hot and humid low altitude areas around the coast, lake Victoria and the Savannah .

Personal Insurance is also advised. There are good hospitals all over the country and Medical care is available in the Lodges while on safari. Flying Doctors Service is also available on request.

It is safe to swim in the sea and swimming pools. Bottled mineral water is available everywhere. If possible it is better to carry with you a light a medical kit. top

VISA
Visas are required on entry and transit, except for citizens of some countries of the common wealth. Travelers can obtain visas and more information from Kenyan Embassies & consular offices as well as on major entry points in the country Such as Namanga, Busia, Isebania, Taveta, Nairobi and Mombasa International Airports .

The following rates are currently applicable: -

Single Entry Visa- US $ 50 per person

Double Entry Visa- US $ 100 per person

Transit Visa – US $ 20 per person top

CLOTHING
The coast and northern Kenya are hot during the daytime. Beachwear is acceptable while in a coast hotel or on the beach, while light clothing is good for North of the Equator. Comfortable light clothing and hardwearing footwear are recommended when walking around the city.

Those intending to climb mountains should bring hiking gear and very warm clothing.

While on safari, safari suits are the most ideal. Warm clothing is essential in the evenings if you will be in the highlands; bring light cover up layers for the night and a rainproof jacket or coat. A sun hat is also recommended. top

CURRENCY EXCHANGE
Money may be changed at commercial banks or at bereaux de changes, available at major entry points and in towns. Visa cardholders can have access to local currency 24 hours a day through standard chartered (ATM'S).

Master cards are accepted at Barclays bank countrywide. Travelers Cheques are accepted in many establishments, there is no restriction on foreign exchange you may bring in the country but you are advised not to be tempted to change money in the black market or the back street alleys. top

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENTS
Apart from personal effects, you may bring with you: -

•  Cameras (still and movie), films and binoculars. Which must not be sold during the visitors stay in Kenya .

•  Medicines recommended by a physician or prescribed prophylactics. visitors should not bring in any kind of drug that is considered a stimulant or which can be easily abused.

•  Cigarettes, cigars, cheroots, tobacco and snuff not exceeding 250gm.

•  Liquors, wines and spirits not exceeding a litre.

•  Perfumes, toilettes.

•  Live animals, provided they have a veterinary certificate.

• NOTE:
  Some of the items may be restricted to persons over 18yrs of age.
• Gifts are subject to duties.
• Firearms, illicit drugs and pornographic materials are strictly prohibited. top

SOUVENIR SHOPPING
When considering shopping for souvenirs, protecting the nature should be put into consideration. For the sake of conservation. On safaris, you should not collect or buy wildlife bones or skins, horns, teeth, feathers or shells. While at the coast, avoid buying corals or starfish as they play an important role in the fragile ecosystem.

Most hotels and game lodges feature a boutique or two stocking a wide variety of Kenyan souvenirs. However the real test is in the art of bargaining at market stalls and wayside outlets and bazaars.

The choice of products includes: - safari suits, hats, mats, baskets, handcrafted animals, jewellery, precious stones, ornamental souvenirs, wood and stone crafts, batik works, paintings e.t.c.

The driver guide is there to assist you with rates and bargaining. top

PHOTOGRAPHY
Kenya offers the BEST sites for photography. It is the photographers dream country because of its abundant wildlife and birdlife found in their natural habitats.

The scenic beauty, captivating avifauna, colorful people as well as a beautiful sunlight from the blue skies makes this venture a successful and memorable one.

When making photographs of the wildlife, please remain in your vehicle because the animals are not tame, the guide is experienced in taking the best positions for you to make excellent pictures.

Avoid photographing the local people without their permission for most of them will take it as offensive. Some local people may ask for handouts before you take their pictures.

You require a camera bag to protect your camera and photographic equipment from dust and water.

Take care of your camera while walking in the streets. Avoid photographing government buildings, security establishments and uniformed police. top

ELECTRICITY
The electricity supply in Kenya is 220/240 VHS. 50Hz sockets are usually three pin square. It is important to ensure that appliances such as Video or battery charger operating on other voltage have a built in adaptor. top

RELIGION
Most of the population is either Christian or Muslim with minority as Hindu's. A few communities still observe local and traditional forms of worship. Religious harmony is a key element of Kenyan's cultural, social and political togetherness. top

BANKING HOURS;

08;30 hrs- 1500 hrs (Monday to Friday)

08;30 hrs- 1200 hrs (first and last Saturday of the month)top

TIME

Kenya follows the Greenwich Meridian time (GMT) plus three hours. top

TIPPING

Most establishments such as game lodges, tented camps include a service charge in their tariff as do most restaurants, but despite this fact, tipping is considered customary and the most ideal way to show appreciation for services delivered.

When service is good and inspires a desire to express extra appreciation tipping will be the best way forward.

Kshs. 100-200 is ideal for the waiters and porters while your guide will appreciate US $ 5- 10 per person per day.

In general tipping is a very personal issue and in that case it is best if one decides how best to reward those at their service. top