Everything you need to know about visiting Kenya.

Visas & entry

Most visitors require an electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before flying into Kenya. Apply online at least three days before travel. Children under 16 are exempt from the eTA fee but still require an approved authorisation.

Yellow fever

A yellow fever certificate is required if you are travelling from a country with risk of transmission, including Tanzania and Uganda. If you plan a Kenya–Tanzania combined safari, get vaccinated before leaving home.

When to go

The peak Maasai Mara migration runs July–October. January–February is calving season in the southern Serengeti and excellent for predators. April–May is "secret season" — fewer travellers, lower prices, lush landscapes, full rivers. We can build itineraries year-round; tell us your dates and we'll plan around what's happening in the bush.

About Kenya's national parks

Most of Kenya's national parks are managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), the government agency responsible for wildlife conservation, anti-poaching operations and park infrastructure across the country. The Kenyan parks you are most likely to visit on a safari with us — and which are managed by KWS — include Amboseli, Tsavo East, Tsavo West, Lake Nakuru, Aberdares, Mount Kenya, Hell's Gate, Lake Bogoria and Samburu. Park entry fees on these parks are paid directly to KWS and are included in every Kenya itinerary we design.

The Maasai Marais the major exception. The Mara National Reserve is managed by Narok County Government (with adjacent conservancies run by Maasai-owned trusts), so Mara fees are listed on our itineraries as "Maasai Mara conservancy/reserve fees" rather than KWS fees — accuracy matters when you're reading the inclusions of any safari proposal.

KWS conservation work funded in part by these fees includes anti-poaching patrols across Tsavo, rhino protection at Lake Nakuru, elephant collaring and research programmes around Amboseli, and habitat restoration in Aberdares and Mount Kenya. Family Holiday Safaris is a fee-paying tour operator that supports this work on every Kenya departure.

Currency & money

The Kenyan Shilling (KES) is the local currency. USD is widely accepted at lodges and for tipping. ATMs are common in Nairobi, Mombasa and major towns; carry small notes for tips and curio purchases at remote lodges.

Safety

Safari areas are well-patrolled and our guides carry satellite communication. In Nairobi and Mombasa, normal city precautions apply: don't flash valuables, use registered taxis, and follow your guide's advice on neighbourhoods.

What to pack

• Neutral-coloured clothing (avoid bright white and dark blue)
• Light fleece or warm layer for early morning game drives
• Sun hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen
• Binoculars and a camera with a long lens
• Insect repellent and any prescription medications
• Comfortable walking shoes, plus sandals for camp