Kenya eTA requirements for Ethiopian citizens in 2024

No. Ethiopians do not require a VISA to visit Kenya. However, travelers from Ethiopia need to apply for an ETA to enter Kenya. The Kenyan government declared that beginning January 1, 2024, tourists entering Kenya would not need a visa and would instead apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization. The ETA system has replaced the eVisa system in Kenya; all visitors to the country must have an eTA before commencing their journey. 

The Kenya ETA for Ethiopian citizens is valid for a single entry and allows for a stay of up to 90 days.

All visitors, including infants and children, who intend to travel to the Republic of Kenya must have an approved Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before the start of their journey. 

Kenya Immigration Services offers a service to help you apply for a Kenya ETA. You'll have access to a simplified application form that's easy to fill out and understand (you'll be done in less than 15 minutes!).

There are several ways to travel between Ethiopia and Kenya:

1. Fly: This is the fastest way to travel to Kenya, with flights taking around 5 hours. The fastest way to get from Ethiopia to Kenya is to fly from Addis Ababa to Mombasa. The most popular airlines for this route are Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Jambojet Limited and AirKenya Express.

2. Train: The road distance between Ethiopia and Kenya is 1456.6 km. Traveling by rail from Ethiopia to Kenya is an excellent opportunity to see the breathtaking beauty of the East African Rift Valley. The voyage takes around 12 to 14 hours, which is longer than flying but provides a more distinctive and spectacular view.
3. Car: Traveling by car from Ethiopia to Kenya offers a unique adventure and the freedom to explore sights along the way. 

The main border crossing between Ethiopia and Kenya is in Moyale. Prepare for immigration and customs procedures on both sides of the border. Here's everything you'll need:

• Valid passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Kenya.
• Kenyan ETA: You should apply for a Kenya ETA online before traveling to Kenya
• Car Import Permit: To enter Kenya, you will require temporary import permission for your car. This may be gotten from the border crossing.
• Car Insurance: Ensure your Ethiopian car insurance covers travel to Kenya, or purchase temporary Kenyan car insurance at the border.

Karura Forest, located in the northern portion of Nairobi, Kenya, is a 1,041-hectare urban highland forest and one of the city's designated woods. Since its inception in 1932, the Kenya Forest Service has managed it. It is separated into three pieces by the Kiambu and Limuru highways. The forest has a natural route that extends up to 50 kilometers, giving a serene respite for tourists to stroll, jog, or simply enjoy the peacefulness of nature away from the city's hustle and bustle.

The forest is home to two spectacular waterfalls, Karura and Ruaka, as well as a bamboo forest, Mau Mau caves, and a variety of animals such as Suni, Duiker, Bushbucks, Genets, and more. Karura Forest, which has 36% endemic highland forest species, is a nature lover's paradise. It has a 15-meter waterfall, archaeological sites, an old incineration chimney used by the Central Bank, Lily Lake (a former stone quarry pond), religious caves of historical significance, bamboo patches, bird-attracting marshlands, and tranquil forests of indigenous trees.

The cost of a ticket from Ethiopia to Kenya depends on the mode of transportation you choose:

• Flight: usually the most expensive option, fares range from $500 to $1000 (round trip) depending on the airline, route, time of day, and when you book your ticket. Booking in advance may offer better deals, while last-minute bookings tend to be pricier.
• Train: A more affordable option than flights, fares usually start at $100 (one way). The price depends on the class of service you choose (economy, business, or first class).
• Bus: The most affordable option, fares range from $20 to $30 (one-way). Prices vary depending on the bus company, departure time, and type of seat (regular or sleeper). Bus travel offers a cost-effective way to explore Kenya, though it may take longer than other modes of transport.
• Car: Costs depend on fuel prices, tolls (if any), car rental, and potential maintenance needs. It is difficult to give a specific amount, but it is usually expected to be more expensive than bus travel.

Mombasa, a vibrant coastal city in Kenya, is a great place to explore and shop for unique items. When visiting, you'll find an array of goods that reflect the city’s rich Swahili culture, coastal vibes, and historical significance.

Mombasa is known for its beautiful handwoven kikoy and khanga fabrics. These colorful, lightweight cloths are traditionally worn by both men and women and make perfect souvenirs. You can find them at local markets or stores like Biashara Street.

Spices are another must-buy in Mombasa. As a historic trading hub, the city offers fresh, aromatic spices that can add a rich flavor to your dishes back home. Visit the spice markets for a wide selection of cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and more.

If you're a fan of jewelry, Mombasa offers stunning handcrafted silver jewelry featuring intricate designs. Many pieces are inspired by the coastal and Arabic heritage of the region, making them unique to the area.

For a more artistic keepsake, pick up some hand-carved wooden sculptures or masks from the local markets. These items often depict animals or cultural motifs, showcasing the artistry of Kenyan woodworkers.

For a taste of the native cuisine, do not miss the seafood and seaside snacks like bajia (spicy potato fritters) and mahamri (fried bread)! You can see more information about Best Souvenirs from Kenya Must-Buy Mementos for All Travelers

Mombasa and other coastal areas of Kenya such as Kilifi are home to a large number of expatriates. As a tourist, you can expect to be treated with respect and hospitality. It's worth noting that white tourists in Mombasa are often perceived as affluent, so beach vendors will approach you to offer you help or sell you something. Whilst it is advisable to be wary of pickpockets, overall Mombasa is a relatively safe destination for white travellers.

If you are traveling with children, it is best to limit their access to public beaches during peak hours (when the beach boys are most active) and always keep them close to you. It is also advantageous to book reputable hotels and travel agents to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay in Mombasa.

Finally, take precautions such as avoiding carrying large amounts of cash with you (opt for international credit cards) and keeping valuables safely stored in your hotel room or hire car.