Best Advice on Travel to Kenya from UK

Kenya is an exciting and popular wilderness tourism area in Africa that attracts many people who love wildlife animals in their habitats, especially UK citizens. This country has a lot to offer that can astonish travelers: mountains and deserts, colorful tribal culture, beaches and some of Africa's best wildlife parks. It may not be an exaggeration to say that Kenya is a microcosm of the black continent. Visiting a wildlife zoo is the highlight of Kenya's tourism industry. In addition, the city of Nairobi is also chosen by many people to visit on the sidelines of trips to explore cafes and nightlife entertainment.

If you're planning a trip to travel to Kenya from UK, there are a few important things to consider and prepare about your trip. In this blog, we will provide all the essential information you need to prepare for your Kenyan adventure.

Travel To Kenya From UK - Useful Tips To Take Note

Can UK citizens travel to Kenya?

Yes. UK citizens can totally have the right to travel to Kenya with the condition that you must have a valid visa. To enter Kenya, the majority of foreigners, including British nationals, require an ETA. 

Entry Requirements Kenya from UK

Travel to Kenya from UK is an exciting and unique experience because of its breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage. UK residents require a visa in order to enter Kenya because the UK is not covered by e-visa exempt program. For holders of United Kingdom passports, Kenya's government grants a variety of visas, including those for tourism, business travel, employment, residency and family visits. UK citizens should apply for the appropriate category based on the reason for their trip to Kenya.

UK passport holders now find it easier to visit Kenya thanks to the government's electronic visa. The entire procedure can be finished online, including completing the application, paying the required costs, and getting the visa. You can obtain a travel document to enter Kenya much more quickly and affordably by using this economical method. What could be better than getting a Kenya ETA without going to the embassy or consulate?

The Kenya Immigration Services website is the most practical approach to apply for a Kenya ETA. Applicants should review entry requirements to Kenya from UK and acquire these necessary papers to guarantee a seamless visa application process. All the documents required are your passport and your photo, other documents will depend on your nationalities. Therefore, remember to check your requirements for entry into Kenya from UK and then prepare travel documents to visit Kenya.

UK citizens must get a valid Kenya ETA

An application for a visa normally takes three business days to process. However, at least one week prior to travel is the ideal time to start the visa application procedure. For UK nationals visiting Kenya, Travel Insurance is highly advised. Both medical treatment and other travel-related costs, such as trip disruption, cancellation, or luggage loss, are covered by this insurance.

How to travel to Kenya from the UK?

Direct flights to travel to Kenya from UK are available and usually land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi or Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa. Airlines like British Airways and Kenya Airways offer non-stop flights, while others, such as Qatar Airways and Emirates, provide connecting options.

For more flexible options, several airlines provide connecting flights with layovers in cities like Qatar Airways via Doha, Turkish Airlines via Istanbul, or Emirates via Dubai.

The tickets for flying to Kenya from UK depend on the time that you travel (estimated in 2024).

• Low Season (March-May): Cheaper flights, starting from around £400-£500 for a round trip.
• Peak Season (June-August, December): Higher prices, ranging from £600-£900 or more.

How long to fly to Kenya from UK?

The average flight time from London to Nairobi is approximately 8.5 hours. The duration of indirect flights might range from 11 to 36 hours, contingent on the length of the layover. Booking tickets well in advance can help you secure the best deals.

There are many flights options available for UK citizens to travel to Kenya

Kenya Travel Advice UK - Before Traveling

Precautions for traveling in Kenya

Most likely, you are aware of the UK's travel warnings against visiting Kenya. To our defense, those cautions are only sent to specific, remote regions of the nation. However, UK citizens must be careful and take precautions when traveling to Kenya:

• Your luggage should never be left unattended.
• Steer clear of secluded, lonely streets.
• Keep your alien ID card with you at all times. 
• Keep your eyes out for pickpockets!
• Check government websites and be aware of when it is safe to travel to Kenya. Some areas near other countries have a history of violent conflict; it is best to be informed before you book your trip. Foreign visitors are advised to avoid traveling to eastern Kenya and the border area with Somalia.
• Kenya mainly uses 3-prong sockets, so remember to bring a power plug adapter for convenience.
• Do not buy or carry fur products or products derived from wild animals to avoid problems when entering and exiting the country because Kenya has a very strict wildlife protection policy.

Kenyan Local Laws You Must Follow

In Kenya, no one is above the law, foreigner or not. To travel to Kenya from UK, here are some local laws that you should follow. 

- Visitors who labor without permission run the possibility of being deported.

- You run the possibility of being deported or facing severe jail time for:

• Having explosives, ammo, and firearms 
• Illegal drug possession, sale, or purchase
• trading in fake products or cash
• promoting any kind of obscene content
• poaching or any activity involving the purchase or sale of ivory.
• Racism

UK citizens must take some notes before traveling to Kenya

What to pack for Kenya

Closed-toe walking boots

If your trip to Kenya includes camping or hiking, we highly recommend that you bring a pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes. Walking shoes will provide better cushioning, protect your ankles and prevent cuts and scrapes as you move through the bush and grasslands. They will also protect you from insect bites and stings.

Light, loose-fitting clothing

You will need lightweight clothing that you can wear in layers. Shorts, trousers and long-sleeved shirts are ideal for warm weather, but they also protect your skin from the sun and mosquitoes.

Casual clothing

If you are going out for drinks or dinner in the evening, you may also want to pack a few casual outfits. A pair of jeans and a shirt or top will do.

Sandals

In addition to hiking boots, you will need a pair of sandals or flip-flops for relaxing in your accommodation, going to restaurants or going for walks. They are less bulky and easy to put on and take off.

Warm woollens and brimless hats

The weather is warm all year round, but you will need a woollen jumper or pullover and a brimless hat for early morning starts and evening hunts, as the temperature drops as the sun goes down.

Sun protection

Kenya is located on the equator and the sun is strong all year round. A wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen and sunglasses (preferably polarised) are essential. When exploring, protect your skin with a water-resistant sunscreen with a high SPF.

Travel towel

Quick-dry towels are lightweight and dry quickly. They are perfect for camping and showering on the go, and will take up a fraction of the space in your bag.

Personal Medical Kit

Your guide will carry a large first aid kit, but we recommend that you bring a small first aid kit to ensure you are prepared for minor scrapes, insect bites, blisters or sunburn.

What to pack for Kenya will vary according to the trip style you have chosen and when you are travelling

Weather in Kenya

The climate in Kenya is very diverse, for those near the coast it is often hot and humid, while the inland areas are quite dry and cool. The hottest time in Kenya is around February and March, while the coldest time falls in July and August. Besides, in Kenya there are 2 short rainy seasons that you should avoid traveling, which are April to June and from October to December.

So when to travel to Kenya? According to people who have experience in self-sufficient and convenient Kenyan tourism, the period from July to October is considered the most ideal time to travel to Kenya. Because at this time the weather is quite cool and pleasant, neither too hot nor too cold, and there is little rain, so it is very suitable for visiting and exploring Kenya. Moreover, when you come to Kenya at this time, you will have to witness with your own eyes the scenes of wild animals that can only be found on TV such as: zebras, deer, wild goats, wild buffalo, etc.

Conclusion

A trip to travel to Kenya from UK promises unforgettable memories filled with stunning landscapes, thrilling safaris, and vibrant culture. By planning ahead, securing your Kenya eVisa, and packing wisely, you can enjoy a hassle-free adventure. Embrace the warm Kenyan hospitality, and get ready for an extraordinary journey!

Ready to explore Kenya? Start your adventure by applying for a Kenya eVisa today and let the magic of Africa’s wild beauty captivate you. If you have any questions related to your visa, please contact Kenya Immigration Services for more information and support at any time. Now, let’s start your Kenya journey now!