Covid 19 Travel Information For Kenya

In light of the ongoing global pandemic, it's crucial to stay informed about travel regulations and requirements. If you're planning to travel to Kenya, here's a comprehensive guide to the current COVID-19 travel information:

Entry Requirements

As of now, travelers arriving in Kenya through any point of entry are no longer required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a pre-departure COVID-19 test. This is a significant update that simplifies the entry process for tourists and visitors.

Health Protocols

For the safety of all travelers and residents, certain health protocols are in place:

• Symptomatic Travelers: Travelers exhibiting flu-like symptoms upon arrival will need to complete a passenger locator form on the 'jitenge' platform.
• Testing Requirements: These symptomatic travelers will be required to undergo a COVID-19 antigen test upon arrival. The cost of this test will be borne by the traveler.
• Positive Antigen Test: If the antigen test result is positive, a subsequent COVID-19 PCR test will be required, again at the traveler's expense.
• Isolation for Severe Symptoms: Those with severe symptoms will be directed to follow the relevant isolation guidelines based on the severity of their illness.

Outbound Travel

If you're leaving Kenya, it's essential to be aware of the specific travel, health, and COVID-19-related requirements of your transit and destination countries. Ensure that you have all necessary documentation and adhere to any protocols to make your journey as smooth as possible.

Visa Information

If you're planning a visit to Kenya, make sure you're aware of the visa requirements and application process:

Application Process

• Complete the Application: Fill out the Kenya visa application form and upload the required documents. Ensure that uploaded photos are in JPG format and not larger than 293KB.
• Payment: Pay the required fee using a Master/Visa credit or debit card (not EC Card).
• Check Status: Log into your account regularly to check the status of your application and make any necessary corrections.
• Visa Issuance: Once your status reads "ISSUED," you can download the eVisa PDF from your account.

Visa Categories

• Single Entry Visa for Kenya
• Courtesy/Diplomatic Visa
• East Africa Tourist Visa
• Multiple Entry Visa (Processing time up to 6 weeks, suitable for frequent travelers)
• Transit Visa
• 5 Year Multiple Entry Visa for USA citizens only

Currency and Finance

• Kenya's currency is freely exchangeable at banks, forex bureaus, and hotels.
• Check exchange rates regularly and exchange currency at authorized sources.
• Major credit cards are widely accepted, and international airport banks operate 24-hour services.

Health Precautions

• Familiarize yourself with the COVID-19 travel regulations mentioned above.
• Travelers from certain countries need yellow fever and cholera vaccination certificates.
• Anti-malaria tablets are recommended.
• Avoid consuming food and drinks from unauthorized vendors.
• Refrain from bathing in rivers and lakes.

Security Tips

When traveling in Kenya, keep these security tips in mind to ensure your safety and peace of mind:

• Valuables: Avoid displaying valuable items such as jewelry and electronics in public places.
• Cash: Refrain from carrying large sums of cash; opt for credit cards or electronic payments when possible.
• Night Travel: Avoid walking through unlit areas at night. Instead, arrange for a taxi through your accommodation.
• Personal Safety: Stay in well-traveled and well-lit areas, especially after dark.
• Emergency Contacts: Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers like 999 for immediate police, fire, or medical assistance.
• Public Behavior: Respect local customs and cultural norms to avoid unwanted attention.
• Transport: Use reputable transportation options such as registered taxis or rideshare services.
• Hotel Security: Keep doors locked and windows closed while in your accommodation. Utilize hotel safes for valuable items.
• Document Safety: Carry photocopies of important documents and identification; store originals in a secure location.
• Awareness: Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something feels off, remove yourself from the situation.

By adhering to these security tips, you can enjoy your trip to Kenya with a heightened sense of safety and enjoyment.

Emergency Contacts

In case of emergencies, remember these numbers:

• Dial 999 for police, fire, or ambulance services.
• For non-emergency police assistance, dial 122.

Hospitals and Healthcare

Reputable hospitals are available in urban areas, and remote areas are covered by Flying Doctor services.

Government and Office Hours

• Government offices operate Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 17:00.
• They are closed on weekends and public holidays.

Photography Guidelines

When capturing moments in Kenya, follow these photography guidelines to show respect for local customs and maintain a responsible approach:

• Permission: Always ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, especially in cultural or private settings.
• Government Installations: Avoid photographing government installations or sensitive areas without proper authorization.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and sensitivities; refrain from photographing people in compromising or inappropriate situations.
• Equipment: Bring cameras and film duty-free, and carry extra batteries to capture those memorable moments.
• Wildlife: When photographing wildlife, maintain a safe distance to avoid provoking animals and disturbing their natural behavior.
• Natural Beauty: Capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Kenya responsibly, without causing harm to the environment.
• Consideration: Keep noise levels low and avoid disrupting the surroundings while taking photos.
• Local Interactions: Engage with locals respectfully before taking candid shots, and share your appreciation for their culture.
• Private Spaces: Seek permission before photographing people's homes or private spaces to avoid intrusiveness.
• Educational Sharing: Use your photographs to raise awareness about local culture, wildlife, and environmental conservation efforts.

By adhering to these photography guidelines, you can capture the beauty of Kenya while being considerate of the people, places, and wildlife you encounter.

Tipping Etiquette

• Though service charges are usually included, tipping for exceptional service is appreciated.
• For bar and room service, customary tips are around 10%. For restaurants without service charges, a 5-10% tip is expected.

Telecommunication and Electricity

• Kenya uses a standard electricity voltage of 230/240V with 3-pin square sockets (British standard).
• Telephone and fax services are available in hotels, but charges can be high.

Appropriate Attire

• Dress modestly to respect local culture and traditions.
• Pack warm clothing for colder areas and lighter attire for coastal regions.

Code of Conduct for Responsible Travel

Driving

When driving in Kenya, follow these guidelines to ensure responsible and respectful behavior:

• Stay on Designated Tracks: Stick to established roads and tracks to avoid damaging vegetation and wildlife habitats.
• Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals, allowing them to continue their natural behaviors undisturbed.
• Minimize Impact: Off-road driving can harm the environment; avoid creating new tracks or disturbing the landscape.
• Avoid Harassment: Do not chase or provoke animals for photographs; maintain a respectful distance.
• Daytime Activity: Cheetahs, for instance, hunt during the day, so don't disrupt their activities by surrounding them with vehicles.

By adhering to these driving tips, you can enjoy the wildlife and landscapes of Kenya while minimizing your impact on the delicate ecosystems.

Wildlife Viewing

When observing wildlife in Kenya, follow these tips to ensure a respectful and responsible experience:

• Maintain Distance: Keep a safe distance from animals to avoid causing stress or altering their behavior.
• Quiet Observation: Stay quiet and turn off your engine to minimize disturbance to the animals and their habitat.
• 20-Meter Rule: Maintain a minimum distance of 20 meters from wildlife to prevent encroaching on their space.
• Daytime Viewing: Many animals are active during the day; respect their natural hunting and grazing behaviors.
• Vehicle Etiquette: Stay in your vehicle at all times and avoid sudden movements that might alarm the animals.

By adhering to these wildlife viewing tips, you can enjoy the incredible biodiversity of Kenya while ensuring the well-being of its animal inhabitants.

Feeding and Smoking

To preserve the environment and respect local wildlife in Kenya, remember these important guidelines:

• No Feeding: Refrain from feeding animals, whether in the wild or at your accommodation, to avoid disrupting their natural behaviors.
• Avoid Smoking: Smoking during game drives and in wildlife areas can pose fire risks and harm the environment. Always dispose of cigarette butts responsibly.
• Prevent Dependence: Feeding animals can lead to dependency on humans, affecting their ability to find food naturally.
• Fire Prevention: Be cautious with cigarette disposal, as a carelessly discarded cigarette can start a wildfire that endangers both wildlife and people.

By following these guidelines, you contribute to the preservation of Kenya's natural habitats and ensure a responsible and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Litter Control

To maintain the beauty of Kenya's landscapes and protect its wildlife, follow these litter control guidelines:

• Pack Out Trash: Take all your trash with you when leaving natural areas, including national parks and wildlife reserves.
• Use Trash Receptacles: Dispose of waste in designated bins when available; if not, carry it until you find a suitable disposal point.
• Avoid Littering: Never throw garbage, plastic, or any waste into natural habitats, water bodies, or along roadsides.
• Minimize Impact: Keep the environment pristine by leaving no trace of your visit, minimizing your impact on the ecosystem.

By practicing proper litter control, you contribute to the conservation of Kenya's natural beauty and help protect its ecosystems and wildlife.

Corals and Marine Life

When enjoying Kenya's marine environment, keep these guidelines in mind to preserve the delicate balance of the underwater world:

• Fragile Ecosystem: Treat coral reefs as fragile living organisms; avoid touching, stepping on, or damaging them.
• Avoid Kicking Up Sand: While swimming or diving, be mindful of the sand and seabed to prevent suffocating and harming coral polyps.
• Responsible Diving: Maintain proper buoyancy and control to prevent accidental contact with corals and marine life.
• Use Established Mooring Points: When boating, anchor only at designated mooring points to prevent coral damage.
• Avoid Collecting: Refrain from collecting or buying souvenirs like coral, shells, and starfish, as it contributes to reef degradation.

By respecting these guidelines, you contribute to the preservation of Kenya's beautiful coral reefs and marine life for generations to come.

Water Sports and Fishing

When engaging in water activities and fishing in Kenya, adhere to these guidelines to ensure responsible behavior:

• Designated Areas: Enjoy water sports only in designated zones to protect marine ecosystems and wildlife habitats.
• Marine Parks: Fishing is prohibited in marine parks; ensure you're aware of the areas where fishing is allowed.
• Spear Guns: In both marine parks and reserves, the use of spear guns is banned.
• Responsible Fishing: If fishing is allowed, do so sustainably, respecting catch limits and minimizing environmental impact.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy water sports and fishing while contributing to the conservation of Kenya's marine environments.

Souvenirs and Environmental Conservation

• Avoid purchasing items that harm the environment, such as coral, shells, and starfish.
• Participate in or support environmental awareness campaigns.

Conclusion

When planning a trip to Kenya, keeping up with the latest travel information is essential for a smooth and enjoyable journey. By following these guidelines and being mindful of health, safety, and environmental considerations, you can experience the beauty of Kenya while respecting its culture and nature. Remember, always check official sources for the most current travel regulations before embarking on your adventure. Safe travels!