Travel Information | Kenya & Tanzania

Clothing

The climate in Kenya and Tanzania is characterized by hot, sunny days and comfortable cool nights. On Safari, clothing should be casual and comfortable, shoes and sandals should be comfortable and finally to complement to your comfort, sunglasses and hats are highly recommended. If your safari involves game drive, it is recommended to carry a warm sweater incase of need. Also, the temperature and weather may vary between the places that you visit, hence warm clothing is recommended.

Visas & Documents

A valid passport is necessary for Travel to Kenya and Tanzania. Your passport should be valid for not less than six months and should have at least 3 blank pages. Application procedures for Visas, Visa cost and any additional information with regards to documentation can be obtained from the Kenyan and Tanzanian embassy consulate/high commission in your Country. However, Visa's can also be obtained on arrival at the airport in Kenya and Tanzania and will need to be paid for in U.S. Dollars (Scenic Treasures will communicate the current amounts prior to your travel). Visitors to Kenya and Tanzania are also required to be vaccinated against certain diseases. Proof is required in the form of an International Vaccination Certificate (IVC), generally available at the medical facility where the vaccinations are given. IVCs should be kept with passports and presented to immigration officials upon entry to the Country.

Currency

Kenya and Tanzania have separate currencies, though each is called the 'Shilling'. The Kenya Shilling and the Tanzania Shilling are readily exchanged for most major currencies at banks, forex bureaus and hotels/lodges.

Luggage

We strongly recommend that you travel as light as possible. On the domestic flights within the parks in Kenya and Tanzania you are restricted to a maximum of 15 kgs per person on luggage allowance (includes hand luggage), and it is advisable to pack your belongings in 'soft bags'. Please note that some hotels may have a storage facility for excess guest luggage however this maybe at a fee.

Health

You should consult your doctor for further advice on your health issues prior to your Safari including the travel vaccinations applicable for entry into Kenya or Tanzania. Sufficient travel and health insurance covers for the Safari is highly recommended. Precaution should be taken against Malaria. Insect repellents are available at all local pharmacies. Pharmacies and hospitals can be found in most towns and are equipped with qualified physicians and medical personnel. It is advisable to drink bottled water at all times.

Languages & Culture

Swahili is the lingua franca of Kenya and Tanzania, but English is also widely spoken and is the predominant official language. There are, however, more than 50 separate tribal languages, and just as many local cultures. Scenic Treasures have driver guides who are proficient in foreign languages, making them an invaluable resource to the non-English speaking guest.

Electricity

The voltage in Kenya and Tanzania is 220-240 AC. This voltage is not suitable for hardware manufactured in Canada and U.S.A. In hotels and lodges outside Nairobi, Mombasa and Arusha generators/solar power are the source of electricity and have varying running periods. You will be advised of the timings at the respective lodge/camp.

Communication

While most hotels in Nairobi and Mombasa have modern telecommunication facilities, it is advisable to enquire about the charges before making international calls.

Security

As in other metropolitan cities, keep a close watch on handbags, wallets and cameras and avoid wearing expensive jewellery. Safes are available in Kenyan and Tanzanian hotels, whilst at the lodges/tented camps the reception can place your valuables in safe custody.