FAQs

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.

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.

There are different options that you can choose from. You can get from Nairobi to Arusha by plane, bus, car or even by taxi By shuttle bus Taking the bus is arguably the most popular and cost-effective choice. Plus, the trip is gorgeous and fun, which is a nice bonus! There are several busses available for crossing the border from Kenya to Tanzania. The buses are normally comfortable, and there is a dedicated area where you may store your bags. The distance between Nairobi and Arusha is around 275 kilometers, therefore the travel will take between 4 and 5 hours. By plane If you don't have much time and don't mind spending money, you may fly from Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta Airport (NBO) to Kilimanjaro International Airport. The flying time is around one hour. The biggest advantage of this choice is that you won't have to worry about crossing the land border! However, make sure your eVisa is in order ahead of time to save time when you arrive. Wondering why you can't land at Arusha Airport? It's simple: because the airport is not international, it cannot accept planes from Kenya. So, if you want to travel from JRO airport to Arusha, the distance is around 52 kilometers, and you will need to take a bus or a taxi. This trip will take you around one hour. By car If you want to do it with a rental automobile, the method is very simple, but you'll need to bring the necessary documents with you: Driving license The vehicle’s registration papers Road tax  Fuel levy Temporary import permit  By taxi Aside from flying, this is the most expensive option. You'll need to take a taxi from Nairobi to the border, cross it on foot, and then catch another taxi to Arusha. The journey from Nairobi to the Namanga border typically takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, while the drive from Namanga to Arusha usually takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Taxis can be hailed from the Nairobi bus terminal for this trip.

Nairobi is a shopper's paradise, with a wealth of unique items to choose from. Here is a list of what to buy while shopping in Nairobi, Kenya: Maasai Souvenirs Kenyans today regard the Maasai's distinctive clothing, the shuka, to be national dress. It supplanted hide skin clothing in the 1960s. It consists of a thick cotton blanket with a check design in blue, red, black, green, or yellow stripes. The Maasai adorn their shukas with intricate pieces of jewelry, including lengthy necklaces, chokers, bracelets, earrings, waistbands, and sandals made of handmade ceramic beads. The jewelry represents love, power, and beauty. Furthermore, renowned fashion firms and jewelry designers, like as Louis Vuitton, have patterned their clothing and jewelry collections after Kenyan souvenirs and items. Kenyan Masks These Kenyan souvenirs and commodities are offered with convenient strands for hanging on a wall. Each piece of art shows a different theme or significant individual from Kenyan or African history.  Then acquire these gorgeous products to incorporate a little bit of Kenyan culture into your home. In Nairobi Kenya, you may shop at Maasai Market, Kenyan Curio Shop in Westlands, the Village Market, and a variety of other artisan businesses. Read more: Best Souvenirs from Kenya Must-Buy Mementos for All Travelers Kitengela Glass If you enjoy hand-blown artwork, consider purchasing Kitengela glass souvenirs with an African twist. These include fashionable drinking glasses, lighting accessories, window-stained glass, garden jewelry, and even unique house fence.  Visit the workplace near Nairobi National Park to observe glass-blowing shops in Nairobi, Kenya. It is among the top spots to visit in Nairobi for couples. Kazuri Beads Kazuri Beads offers a broad range of vivid beads in the shape of necklaces, bracelets, and earrings to fit your mood. The Swahili term "Kazuri" translates to "small and lovely." You might select crimson for power or daring, or green for money. Visual Art The Kenyan government promotes a vibrant art culture, as seen by the diversified art centers dispersed around the country. Then, if you want to experience this culture while away from Kenya, visit the Kuona Trust Art Center, a thriving visual arts scene in the heart of the Kenyan city. You will find exciting and informative exhibitions of Kenyan contemporary artwork, multimedia displays, videos, and books. Order original paintings of tribal, contemporary, traditional, or abstract art.

If you wish to try traditional Kenyan cuisine in Kitengela, there are several eateries to choose from. Not only will you discover Kenyan food, but also Italian, Brazilian, and Indian eateries. Here is a list of the best restaurants in Kitengela 1. Oasis Restaurant – Kitengela The Oasis restaurant is a fantastic dining destination for the entire family. It takes pleasure in offering a wide variety of African cuisine, as well as all sorts of beer and soft beverages. It provides dine-in, takeout, and delivery options. In addition, the Oasis restaurant - Kitengela, provides lodging for visitors. It features the cleanest guest rooms and pleasant room attendants, ensuring that customers enjoy their stay at the restaurant. 2. Wrens Lounge and Grill The Wrens Lounge is a beer and wine bar, grill, clubhouse, and restaurant that serves all African specialties. It's a terrific spot where entertainment meets elegance and unparalleled customer service. Whether you're searching for a fun spot or a restaurant, the Wrens Lounge and Grill is ideal for family and friend gatherings. If you enjoy chill music such as Lingala and rhumba, the Wrens lounge restaurants are the place to go. It also presents live concerts by renowned local and international artists. 3. Charlies Bistro – Kitengela Charlies Bistro is a high-end restaurant that offers clients top-notch services and standards. It provides a diverse selection of cuisine and beverages, as well as ample room for hosting parties or VIP events. The restaurant also provides abundant parking space, as well as adequate security guards and CCTV cameras to maintain high levels of security. It offers dine-in, curbside pickup, and delivery. They also feature a dance area and a deejay to keep customers engaged and amused. Their rates are reasonable, and there are several special deals available throughout the week. They also occasionally organize ladies' nights with excellent beverage specials. 4. Pamo Restaurant The Pamo restaurant is one of the top fast-food restaurants in Kitengela, offering both dine-in and takeout options. It takes pleasure in recruiting highly skilled chefs and support personnel who serve clients fast and effectively. As a result, it has become a popular dining destination in Kitengela. 5. Galaxy Resort Kitengela This resort features an all-day dining restaurant that offers local delicacies and a buffet option for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Since it’s part of a resort, the price point may be higher. 6. Citadel Bar and Restaurant Citadel pubs and restaurants are popular among Kitengela inhabitants because of their delicious cuisine and inexpensive costs. They are known for having a unique chef who prepares high-quality meals, ranging from African dishes to contemporary delights. The Citadel bar section is fully equipped with a variety of drinks, including beer, wine, water, and juices. It also employs friendly and courteous bartenders who uphold mutual respect, honesty, and integrity in their service delivery.

It is generally safe to walk around Nairobi during daylight hours in the city’s better neighborhoods. However, it is strongly advised to travel with a local guide. Certain districts east of the city center, such as Kibera, Eastleigh, and the entire Kamukunji area, can be hazardous, and a tour will advise you to avoid them when visiting Nairobi. Unfortunately, violent crime and events such as muggings, carjackings, and armed robberies sometimes occur in Nairobi, so pay attention to your guide's suggestions. Nairobi Central and City Square, as far east as Moi Avenue, are crowded with Kenyans and foreigners during the day, and well-lit and policed in the evening. However, it is not advisable to travel alone at night. Use common sense and stroll as if you know where you're going, just like in any other city. Kenyans are generally quite nice, however, you should be wary of your surroundings. To enhance your safety while exploring Nairobi, consider joining organized walking tours that focus on the city's culture and history. These tours not only provide a safe environment but also enrich your understanding of local traditions and landmarks. Additionally, familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and the locations of nearby police stations. Always keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables in public. By staying informed and cautious, you can enjoy your time in Nairobi while minimizing risks.

Traveling from Botswana to Kenya offers an exciting journey through two beautiful African destinations. Whether you want to fly with a connecting airplane or take a scenic route that includes bus travel, we will give you with all of the necessary information to ensure a seamless trip. 1. Distance from Botswana to Kenya The distance between Kenya and Botswana is 2854 km. The road distance is 3774.3 km. Travelers can reach Kenya from Botswana by airplane, by car, or by bus. Each option offers a unique experience, with flights providing a quicker journey and buses allowing for a more scenic trip. 2. Kenya ETA requirements Check the Kenya ETA requirements for your nationality before traveling to Kenya. Botswana citizens don’t require a visa to enter Kenya but they need to apply for an ETA. The eTA is mandatory for all foreign visitors except for citizens of EAC Member States who want to travel to Kenya. Once an eTA is obtained, the traveler must enter Kenya within 90 days. If the visitor does not enter within 90 days, the eTA issued becomes invalid. 3. Booking your flight The best way to get from Botswana to Kenya is by plane. For the flight from Botswana to Kenya, you can choose Fastjet, South African Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, and Airlink. 4. Safety and Security Kenya is generally safe for tourists, but like in any African nation, it is vital to remain careful. Avoid exhibiting precious stuff, exercise caution in crowded settings, and use dependable transportation.  5. Currency The currency of Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). For small purchases, it's essential to have some local currency, while credit cards are often accepted at hotels, restaurants, and large enterprises. Foreign currency costs may occasionally apply. 6. Language English and Swahili are the official languages in Kenya. While English is widely spoken, learning a few basic Swahili phrases can enhance your experience and interactions with locals. 7. Transportation Kenya's transportation alternatives include taxis, matatus (minibuses), and ride-sharing services such as Uber. Uber was dependable and inexpensive. 

No, Botswana citizens require a visa to enter Kenya. They can enter Kenya without a visa for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days beginning January 1, 2024. Travelers just get a new Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). A Kenya eTA grants authorization to travel and is issued by the Government of the Republic of Kenya. The eTA application procedure is quick and uncomplicated. The candidate may complete the procedure in 5-10 minutes from almost anywhere in the world. The eTA application asks for basic personal, passport, and travel-related information.  To minimize information mismatches, applicants need to refer to their passports when filling out the Keyna ETA application form, providing the needed documents, and paying the ETA costs via debit or credit card. Once authorized, the ETA is delivered to the applicant's email address. It is critical to have many printed copies of the authorized ETA and a digital copy on your portable device to present to border control officers when you arrive in Kenya.

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.

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