Classic Kenya

Frequently asked questions

• What is the time difference between the UK and Kenya?

  GMT +3 hours

• What is the currency in Kenya?

  Kenyan Shilling

• What will the weather be like in Kenya?

  Generally, all our tours operate when it is considered the best time to travel, although it is important to note that climates may vary between different regions and countries, if visiting more than one, so climates may change throughout your tour. As weather patterns around the world become less predictable the information we provide should be used as a guide only and is no guarantee of the weather at the time you travel. We also recommend checking up-to-date weather forecasts before you depart.

  The climate varies across Kenya, from the cool air of the highlands, the dry heat across the savannahs or the tropical humidity along the coast. There are two distinct rainy seasons with the “long rains” from April to May and the “short rains” from November to December. The rest of the year is fairly dry with fantastic opportunities for wildlife viewing.

• What clothing should I take to Kenya?

  Dress for our tours is generally relaxed and informal during the day, dressing to suit the weather conditions and the activity you are undertaking. Evening dinners are also informal, with smart casual dress being the norm.

  It’s likely there will be occasions when exploring you’ll be walking on uneven surfaces, so we recommend sturdy and comfortable walking shoes. Wearing layers of clothing means it’s much easier to deal with potentially varied weather conditions – remember it will be cooler at higher altitudes – and it’s always advisable to carry a waterproof, good insect repellent, a high factor sunscreen lotion and a hat for protection from the sun. If travelling on a safari in Africa, is it recommended to wear natural colours such as khaki, green or beige as bright colours can attract insects and cause diversions for the wildlife.

  Bear in mind in some of the countries you will visit, the local people adopt a more conservative standard of dress than we are used to in the UK and we suggest dressing modestly. When visiting sacred places, or active religious sites, it is recommended that arms and legs are fully covered, so consider wearing long trousers, or skirts.

• How much should I tip in Kenya?

  Tipping in most countries is a way of showing your appreciation for good service, and whilst not compulsory, it is now an accepted practice in many of the countries we visit on our tours and in many, very much a way of life.

  Tipping remains discretionary, although at the end of your tour, if you are happy with the services provided by your Tour Manager, local guides, coach drivers and assistants, we would suggest showing your appreciation for the services offered.

  We have included a number of gratuities into your tour. Tipping for your Tour Manager, local guides and drivers are not included.

  We would suggest the following amounts:

  • Driver Guide: KES1325 – KES1990 per person per day, up to a maximum of KES12500 per couple for the duration of the tour

• What are the entry requirements for Kenya?

  The information provided on entry requirements, passports and visas is for British Citizens only. Any visa information covers visa requirements for the duration of our tour stays in any given country. If you intend to stay longer you should seek additional information before booking.

  Holders of a British Subject passport, non-British citizens and holders of a passport endorsed in any way should check immigration requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate of the country to be visited, as should clients with dual nationality or renounced citizenship.

  It is important to recognise that whilst the information provided is correct at the time of publishing, all requirements may change and all clients must check the up-to-date position in good time before departure with the embassy or consulate of the country(ies) you are travelling through and to.

  We also suggest referring to the UK government’s Foreign Travel Advice website, for advice about travelling abroad, including the latest information on safety and security, entry requirements and travel warnings.

• Do I need to renew my passport for my trip to Kenya?

  A valid ten-year British passport is required for all our holidays, valid for a minimum of six months after your return date to the UK. If you are not currently in possession of a valid passport, please make sure you leave plenty of time before your holiday to apply for this document.

  A full British passport presently takes approximately up to ten weeks to obtain. If you are 16 or over and have not yet arranged a passport, you should apply for one at least 10 weeks before your departure from the UK. The UK Passport Service has to confirm an applicant’s identity before issuing their first passport and may ask them to attend an interview in order to do this. Please note, if you need to apply for visas after you receive your new passport, you will need to factor in additional time for this.

• Will I need a visa to enter Kenya?

  Visitors to Kenya are required to obtain an eTA visa before travelling. You can apply online for your visa within 90 days of travel on the Kenyan Civil Aviation Authority website.

  The cost is USD $32.50.

  Alternatively, if you would prefer to have assistance with your visa and have the application process managed by a visa company, we recommend The Travel Visa Company.

  For more information on passport information and entry requirements please visit the Government Passport Office website and the Foreign Office website.

• Do I need to have any vaccinations for Kenya?

  Health facilities, hygiene and disease risks vary worldwide and may change at any time. You should take health advice from your GP or local travel clinic about your specific needs as early as possible and ensure that vaccinations or preventative measures are taken early enough (which may be a month or more prior to departure) to be fully effective by the date of travel.

  In addition to the UK government’s own travel advice website, we also recommend visiting the NHS Travel Vaccinations website, for more information on any required vaccinations.

• What is my baggage allowance?

  You are entitled to carry one soft sided bag per person. Dimensions must not be over – height 66 centimetres / length 42 centimetres / width 28 centimetres. It must weigh less than 15kg. In most instances this will be less than the airlines permitted allowance and is restricted to accommodate for coach and, or train capacity, domestic flights and where applicable local health and safety laws. We are unable to accommodate more than one soft sided bag per person, or any oversized pieces of luggage. Personal and valuable items such as cameras, medication, money / credit cards etc. should be carried in a travel bag or on your person.

  Baggage allowance for The Ark

  Guests will be asked to leave their bigger bags at Aberdare Country Club and pack a small overnight bag for their one night stay at the Ark.