Kenya-Travel Warnings

Holidays and Days Off 

Throughout the year there are many special holidays and national days off in Kenya. These days are perfect opportunities for study abroad students as well as volunteers and visitors to experience new holidays, as well as some old favorites with a Kenyan twist. The following is a list of holidays and public days off in Kenya:

• New Year's Day (January 1)
• Good Friday (April 2)
• Easter Monday (April 5)
• Labor Day (May 1)
• Madaraka Day (June 1)- Independence Day
• Eid al-Fitr (September 10-11)- End of Ramadan
• Kenyatta Day (October 20)- Day to honor those who died fighting for Kenya’s independence
• Jamhuri Day (December 12)- Day to mark Kenya’s establishment as a republic
• Christmas (December 25)
• Boxing Day (December 26)

Customs Rules

A valid passport, a travel visa, and a yellow fever vaccination certification are required upon entry to Kenya. Vaccinations against typhoid and poliomyelitis are recommended. Though cholera is not a required vaccination anymore, risk of cholera still exists, and proper precautions should be taken before entering the country. As always, contracting infectious diseases is more likely in areas outside urban centers. Malaria is a risk throughout the year, but is less likely to occur in Nairobi and in the highlands.

Communications

Kenya has over 16 million active cell phone users, and more than 3 million Internet users. For international travelers, study abroad students, interns and volunteers, this is good news, because it is fairly easy to stay in contact with family and friends at home when visiting Kenya. Landline phones are not always reliable; so far more Kenyans depend on cell phones as a primary means of communication.

It is advised to bring a Swahili phrase book when visiting Kenya, and to become familiar with basic words and phrases of the language. Though many Kenyans can speak English, many cannot. International travel is more fun and rewarding when it is possible to speak with the locals. Also, locals have far more respect for visitors who attempt to speak the language, rather than expecting everyone to speak English.

Safety

As malaria can be a problem, bringing a mosquito net and repellent is suggested for all international visitors.

Be wary of low-income areas in and around Nairobi. Reports of violent crimes are on the rise.

Smoking in all public places outside of designated areas is prohibited throughout Kenya. Pay attention to warnings and signs concerning smoking.

Petty theft is a problem in Kenya, and international visitors are definitely targets. Travel sling bags are safer to carry than purses, as purse straps can easily be cut. Keep personal items under supervision at all times in order to avoid theft.

Much of Kenya, especially in coastal areas, practices Muslim traditions, and can b e very conservative. Dressing modestly outside of tourist areas and hotels is respectful and recommended. Women who have recently traveled to Kenya suggest that women wear skirts, dresses, or longer shorts in order to be respectful of the locals.