£1 KES 173.53
Today
6:53 am
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Travel warning
Terrorists have been carrying out attacks at places like hotels, bars and beaches, particularly in the north and some coastal areas.
Weather in Kenya
Kenya
23°
Fog
Wed
15
23
Thu
16
25
Fri
16
24
Sat
16
24
Sun
16
25
SPF level in Kenya
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Kenya
Languages in Kenya
Tipping in Kenya
Tipping is customary in Kenya for good service. While not mandatory, it is greatly appreciated by service staff.
Restaurant
10-15% of the bill
Bar/Café
10% of the bill for good service
Taxi
Round up the fare or 10% for good service
Hotel Porter
50-100 KES per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
100-200 KES per day
Tour Guide
500-1000 KES per day, depending on the length and quality of the tour
Safety in Kenya
Tips for British travellers
Kenya is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Terrorist attacks could target westerners at places like hotels, bars, restaurants, nightclubs, supermarkets, shopping centres, and beaches.
Be vigilant for bag-snatching, which is common at bus stations, railway stations, and airports, and do not resist if you are attacked.
Avoid accepting drinks or food from strangers in bars or clubs as they may be spiked to facilitate theft or assault.
Always carry ID with you; a copy of your passport is usually acceptable but police may insist on seeing the original.
It is illegal to smoke in any public place in Kenya except in designated smoking areas, and you could face a large fine or prison.
Bonus tips:
Wear conservative clothing away from tourist resorts, especially in coastal areas like Mombasa, to show courtesy and avoid negative attention.
There has been an increase in cases of serious illness from alcoholic drinks containing methanol, so seek urgent medical attention if you show signs of poisoning after drinking.
Driving in Kenya
A UK driving license is valid for tourists. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
110 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.08%
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
999
Save 999 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Kenya
Voltage
240V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type G
UK adapter needed?
No
Kenya uses Type G plugs, which are the same as in the UK. The standard voltage is 240V and the frequency is 50Hz. UK travelers will not need an adapter.
Cards & payments
Card payments are becoming more widespread in urban areas, hotels, and larger establishments. However, cash is still preferred in many smaller businesses and rural areas.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
ATMs in Kenya
ATMs are available in major cities and tourist areas, but less common in rural locations.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are the most convenient way to get cash. Ensure your card is chip and PIN enabled. Be aware of transaction fees.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply to UK mobile customers. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in Kenya. Roaming charges can be high. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for more affordable data and calls.
Local SIM data package
10 GB for 1500 KES (~£8)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, 2G
Local carriers
Safaricom, Airtel Kenya, Telkom Kenya
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants in major cities and tourist destinations. Coverage can be limited in rural areas.
Average speed
20 Mbps
Many hotels and restaurants offer free WiFi, but the speed and reliability can vary. Consider purchasing a local SIM card with a data plan for more consistent internet access.
Health & vaccinations in Kenya
Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance that covers medical evacuation and treatment in Kenya. The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is not valid in Kenya.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Malaria is a risk in Kenya, so consult your doctor about antimalarial medication. Dengue fever and Zika virus are also present. Drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. Seek medical advice if you become ill.
Calling Kenya
Country code
+254
00 254 [local number]
00 254 722 123456
To call Kenya from the UK, dial 00 (the UK exit code), then 254 (Kenya's country code), followed by the local number. Mobile numbers in Kenya typically start with 7.
UK Embassy in Kenya
British High Commission Nairobi
Upper Hill Road, Nairobi
Airports in Kenya
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.