A Kenyan safari is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have. You’ll find wide open savannahs, close encounters with wildlife, and the chance to immerse yourself in a completely new culture. But before you board the plane, there are a few important things to tick off your list to make sure your trip goes smoothly.

Here’s a practical guide to what you need to do before heading off on your Kenyan safari.

Staying Connected: Internet Access Options in Kenya

These days, reliable internet is almost as essential as your camera on safari. In Kenya, you have three main options:

1. Relying on Wi-Fi

• Pros: Free at most lodges, hotels, and many restaurants. Some safari vehicles even come with Wi-Fi.
• Cons: Coverage is inconsistent and you will spend long periods of time without connection. Speeds can be slow, especially in rural safari areas. Not ideal if you need reliable connectivity.

Verdict: Fine for light use, but not dependable if you want maps, messaging, or uploads on the go.

2. E-Sims (e.g., Airalo)

• Pros: Super convenient, just install before you leave and connect as soon as you land. No need to queue at the airport. Easy top-ups via app.
• Cons: Usually more expensive than local SIM cards. They are typically data only and you won’t get a Kenyan number, which can be useful for making bookings or local calls.

Verdict: Great for short stays or those who value convenience over cost.

3. Local SIM Cards (Safaricom or Airtel)

• Pros: Cheapest and most reliable option. Safaricom has the widest coverage, while Airtel offers competitive bundles. You can buy voice, text, and data packages, and the Safaricom bundles include free WhatsApp usage.
• Cons: Requires showing your passport at the airport kiosk and sometimes queuing. The process can take 15–20 minutes.
• How to get one: After clearing immigration, you’ll find Safaricom and Airtel shops in the arrivals area. Staff will set up the SIM, activate it, and help you buy data bundles on the spot. You can also do this in most shopping malls if you’re unable to do it at the airport.

Verdict: The best choice if you’ll be in Kenya for more than a few days.

Travel Documents: eTA and Passport

• Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA): All visitors to Kenya need an eTA, which you apply for online through the official government portal. You’ll need your passport details, travel itinerary, accommodation booking, and a recent passport photo. When it asks for a letter of invitation, your travel itinerary or receipt of hotel bookings will suffice here. Approval usually takes 2–3 working days, so apply at least a week before travel.
• Passport validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your entry date and should have at least two blank pages for stamps.

Health & Safety Prep

Vaccinations

Some vaccines are essential, and others are strongly recommended depending on your itinerary:

• Yellow Fever: Required if you’re traveling from or transiting through a yellow fever risk country. For example, travel to Tanzania from Kenya will need you to show your proof of yellow fever vaccination. So be sure to bring the yellow card or booklet with you as evidence.
• Hepatitis A & Typhoid: Strongly recommended for food and water hygiene protection.
• Tetanus: Keep your booster up to date.
• Hepatitis B & Rabies: Recommended if you’ll be in rural areas or around animals.

Timing tip: Most vaccines take at least 2 weeks to become effective. Book a travel clinic appointment 4–6 weeks before your trip to be safe.

Malaria

Insurance

Medical and travel insurance is non-negotiable. You never know what can happen on your travels! Look for policies covering medical evacuation, as safari destinations can be remote.

Download Offline Maps

I always download offline maps before any trip and on a Kenyan Safari, it’s even more important. Safari lodges and reserves may not always have strong connections, so having Google Maps offline will save you from getting lost, and it’s also handy for long drives or walks around cities. Downloading maps can be done for both Android and iPhone.

Money & Payments

Cash

Carry some Kenyan Shillings (KES) for tips, souvenirs, and small local purchases. Most safari lodges accept cards, but you’ll find cash is useful in rural stops.

ATMs & Cards

ATMs are widely available in cities. Each withdrawal usually comes with a fee of 300–500 KES ($2–4). Always check your bank’s exchange rates; in most cases, it’s best to pay in Kenyan Shillings rather than your home currency. Digital banks like Monzo, Revolut, or Starling are excellent for international travel, with fair rates and instant spending notifications.

M-Pesa Mobile Money

M-Pesa is Kenya’s famous mobile payment system. It’s widely used by locals, from supermarkets to taxi drivers. However, it requires a Safaricom SIM card to register, which may be more hassle than it’s worth for a short safari stay. If you’re staying longer, it can be very convenient.

Final Kenyan Safari Prep Checklist

As always, I’m available for any questions or more suggestions. I have plenty of other advice pieces such as the best time to visit Kenya or itinerary suggestions. Feel free to contact me with any questions.