Kenya eTA / Evisa requirements for Omani citizens

No, Omani citizens don’t need a visa to enter Kenya. The Kenyan Authorities have recently changed their entry requirements. Previously, you would have needed to apply for an e-visa before arriving. They have since replaced this with an ETA, which must still be requested before entering the country.

All Omani travelers, regardless of age, must obtain an ETA before traveling. 

Currently, the Kenya eTA is good for a single entrance into Kenya. The validity period lasts 90 days from the date of issuance.

The processing period for applications is three working days; however, in rare situations, it may take longer. For tourists who desire a faster turnaround, Kenya Immigration Services offers expedited processing for an extra charge. It is strongly advised that travelers apply for the authorization as soon as they have booked their lodgings and travel tickets.

Kenya is a shopper's dream when it comes to purchasing unique things and souvenirs. With over 43 tribes, there is an incredible amount of creative ingenuity and uniqueness. Here are the best things to buy in Kenya

Kisii Soapstone Carvings

Soapstone is found in the western highlands of the nation. It is endemic to Kisii County's Tabaka area. Craftsmen in the region have mastered the ability of carving animals and flora into these pieces of stone. The natural hues of the stone highlight the beauty of the sculptures.

Kazuri Beads

Kazuri beads are gathered from the Maasai people and used to make beautiful necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. The beads have become a significant feature of Kenya's tourism offering. They utilize hues that hold special value for them, such as red, which represents blood, courage, and strength, and green, which represents prosperity.

Jewellery

Most markets in Nairobi and at the entrances to national parks sell a wide range of costume jewelry and beads. You'll discover a lot of colorful beaded necklaces and copper bracelets, some of which have coral or turquoise stones. Ivory pendants are also available, however we strongly advise against purchasing these because they support elephant hunting. Gold jewelry is typically offered in seaside areas, and it is frequently carved with ethnic designs.  

Clothes & Fabrics

One of the most sought-after goods by visitors to Kenya is the traditional clothing worn by the different Kenyan tribes. Female gowns are called Kangas and are often made up of two sections, whereas male Kikois are one long kaftan-style dress. The best places to find them at a reasonable price are Nairobi, Mombasa, and Lamu. Batiks are attractive textiles that are often used to decorate homes. Its name is derived from the process employed, which involves using wax to create blank spaces between the vivid dyes used to paint the textiles. These are often hung on the wall and feature motifs of animals, landscapes, or tribes.

Kenyan Art

Kenyan art originates from all throughout the country. It may be broad or particular to the region or tribes. Art from the Samburu tribe differs from that of the MijiKenda tribe on the coast. To obtain real artifacts, it is important to purchase from local communities.

A Masai Mara trip cost can be very expensive. There are just a few hotels and lodges within the reserve, and the most will cost more than 550 USD per person each night. Outside the reserve, Masai Mara lodges are less expensive, but traveling to the Mara Triangle can take hours.

The best Masai Mara lodges are world-famous. They occupy prime positions and provide completely furnished safari tents outfitted with high count cotton bedding, Persian carpets, and hot showers. Fine food and free flowing booze are commonplace. A trip to a Masai Mara lodge or camp is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for most people, but not everyone can afford it. In addition to your lodging expenses, there are park fees, transportation prices, game drive costs, and guide fees. It might all build up to so much money that you decide not to travel at all.

There are different ways you can get to Tsavo National Park including air, road, and railway. The most popular way is taking a flight to Nairobi or Mombasa. Once you arrive in Nairobi or Mombasa, you may take a short aircraft, a car, or a train to Tsavo West National Park.

By Road

If you want to spend a few days in Kenya, this is probably the most convenient method to go to Tsavo West National Park. A car will take around 7 hours from Nairobi and 4 hours from Mombasa. With comfortable, premium vehicles available, the trip offers a pleasant and interesting experience.

By Railway

Another option for traveling to Tsavo West from Nairobi or Mombasa is by train. While it’s a more affordable choice, it does have the limitation of fixed schedules. The train will drop passengers at the Voi SGR Terminal, regardless of where the journey starts. From there, tour vehicles can transport visitors to the park.

By Air

If you do not want to stay in Kenya for long, it is best to fly to Tsavo West to save time. There are six airstrips in the park. The airstrips are located throughout the park, including Lake Jipe, Kamboyo, Kasigau Gate, Kilaguni, Maktau, and Finch Hatton's airstrip.

You may fly from Jomo Kenyatta International or Wilson Airport in Nairobi, or Moi International Airport in Mombasa.

Nairobi is a fairly safe place for travelers wishing to spend their safari holidays in Kenya. Nairobi is recognized as a tourism center, with a higher number of people visiting for safaris and holidays than other East African countries.  Many areas in and around Nairobi offer a secure and comfortable environment, with most venues being well-guarded by government and security forces.

While Nairobi has experienced two terrorism-related incidents in the past, it remains a safe city for tourists.

Nairobi is noted for having most international headquarters, including the famed UN buildings, several diplomatic offices, and other well-known international institutions, making it safer to stay in Nairobi.

Safety Tips for traveling to Nairobi

As an individual traveling to Nairobi either for a safari or a business holiday, here are some of the general safety tips to observe.

• While in Nairobi, make it a point to use a recognized cab, such as Yellow Cab Nairobi, and avoid accepting rides from strangers.
• Avoid moving alone in lonely situations, such as deserted streets at night; instead, always move in groups or with a guide if feasible.
• Avoid smoking in public; most sections of Nairobi have stringent smoking bans. So, if you smoke, be sure to do so in the approved smoking places both inside and outside the facility.
• In Nairobi, avoid high-risk areas such as Kibera unless you are traveling with a trusted guide, driver or hotel staff.
• Be aware of common tourist scams in Nairobi, which are operated by unregistered guides and thieves disguised as police officers.

Mombasa, like any major city, has areas of varying safety levels. While serious crimes against visitors are infrequent, petty theft and muggings sometimes occur, particularly in prominent tourist destinations. It is critical to be aware of your surroundings and take action to reduce the likelihood of being a victim.

Overall, Mombasa is a relatively safe place for travelers. Visitors can considerably minimize their chances of encountering problems by remaining educated about potential hazards, following normal safety precautions, and avoiding isolated places at night.

If you plan to explore Mombasa, you should be aware of current safety risks. Consult reputable tour operators and official travel advisories for the most up-to-date information on potential dangers or regions to avoid. You may have a safe and wonderful vacation to Mombasa if you prepare with information and take the necessary measures.

For those planning a journey from Oman to Kenya, understanding the flights, entry requirements, and top attractions will ensure a smooth and unforgettable trip. Here’s everything you need to know about travel to Kenya from Oman:

• Applying for a Kenya ETA online: Omani citizens can get approval to visit Kenya completely online. The Kenya ETA allows Omani citizens to apply through a simple online application form. 
• Booking your flights from Oman to Kenya: For those wondering how to get to Kenya, flying is the most effective option. Travelers will depart from Muscat International Airport in Muscat and finally arrive at Moi International Airport in Mombasa. However, as of now, direct flights from Oman to Kenya are not available. Passengers will need to take connecting flights with 1–2 layovers. Several airlines operate flights from Oman to Kenya, including Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, Saudia, Kenyan Airways, and Flexflight ApS.
• Accommodation in Kenya: Visitors to Kenya have many lodging options to choose include lodges, tent camps, hotels, hostels, and more.
• Buying travel insurance: While travel insurance is not required for a Kenyan ETA, having it is strongly recommended. It provides financial security and helps to make your trip go more smoothly.
• What to pack for Kenya:  There are several essential items to pack when traveling to Kenya. These include documents like passports and visas, appropriate clothing for climate and activities, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, an electrical adapter, cash, a camera and binoculars, a daypack, and a rain jacket.