People in red robes walking across the dry ground

Good to Know

Important information for your trip.

A journey through Kenya is something special – and depending on the route, it can look very different. We take you through different landscapes and regions, sometimes away from the more developed tourist areas.
There are a few things that are different from a classic vacation and that you should know before traveling.

On this page, we have put together the most important information about your journey. From preparation and what to expect along the way to booking, prices and what is included.

We do not want to overwhelm you with information, but simply give you what will help you travel to Kenya well prepared and with the right expectations.

Preparation

What you should know and prepare before your journey.

Entry & eTA

Travelers generally need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to enter Kenya. The eTA should be applied for online through the official Kenyan website before traveling.

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The application is completed online. There can occasionally be problems with payment. If you experience difficulties, we can assist you with the application where possible.

Please apply for your eTA in good time before your journey and check again before departure whether the entry requirements have changed.

Apply for an eTA

Vaccinations & Health

Which vaccinations or health precautions are advisable depends, among other things, on your itinerary, the time of year and your individual circumstances.

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We recommend seeking individual advice from a travel medicine specialist or your doctor in good time before your journey.

Especially when traveling to remote regions, you should make sure you have a well-prepared personal travel medicine kit.
Any medication you regularly need should be taken in sufficient quantities. A small first-aid kit for minor illnesses and injuries can also be useful while traveling.

Mosquito Protection

Mosquitoes are found in many parts of Kenya and can transmit diseases including malaria and dengue fever.

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Where possible, we take mosquito nets into consideration when selecting accommodation and try to book rooms with them.

We also recommend an effective mosquito repellent with a high DEET content, such as NoBite or Anti Brumm Tropical.

Which additional protective measures – particularly whether malaria prophylaxis is appropriate – make sense for your specific route should be discussed with a travel medicine specialist or your doctor well in advance of your journey.

Clothing

Kenya has very different temperatures depending on the region and altitude.
It can be very hot in the desert and around Lake Victoria, while mornings and evenings can be considerably cooler in the highlands and at higher altitudes. The coast has tropical temperatures.

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We recommend lightweight, breathable clothing, as well as long, sturdy trousers and suitable footwear for hiking. A light jacket or sweater should also be packed.

Good sun protection is particularly important in Kenya: high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat or cap.

Luggage

On our round trips, you will sometimes be traveling for several days and changing accommodation regularly. We therefore recommend a soft travel bag or backpack rather than a traditional suitcase, as these are easier to store in the vehicle.

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Keep your luggage as compact as possible. We particularly recommend packing cubes, which make it easier to keep clothes and other items organized inside a backpack or travel bag.

For longer journeys, it can also make sense not to take all your luggage with you. If necessary, we may be able to store part of it safely during a stay in Nairobi or – depending on the route – send it to the coast in advance.

For our journeys, we also recommend bringing a small flashlight or headlamp, a power bank and a reusable water bottle. These things are particularly useful in remote regions and where electricity supplies are limited.

Money & Payments

The Kenyan Shilling (KES) is used in Kenya.

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Credit and debit cards are mainly accepted in larger hotels and tourist restaurants. On more remote routes and in smaller shops, however, cash remains important.

When paying in cash, it can be difficult to get enough change, especially when using larger notes. On longer journeys, it is also more convenient not to have to carry large amounts of cash with you.

A very practical alternative is M-Pesa. The mobile payment service is widely used in Kenya and can be used for most everyday payments. This means you can pay without constantly carrying cash.

To use M-Pesa, you need a Kenyan SIM card on which an M-Pesa account can be registered. The same SIM card can also be used to purchase data bundles and airtime for calls and SMS.

It is also possible to top up M-Pesa from abroad. Through services such as Remitly, Revolut or Taptap Send, money can in many cases be transferred directly from your own bank account to your Kenyan M-Pesa account.
However, the setup and transfer process can vary depending on the bank and provider.

If required, we can organize a Kenyan SIM card for you. This service is not included in the journey and is charged separately.

SIM Card & Internet

A Kenyan SIM card can be very useful during your journey – particularly for mobile data, calls and M-Pesa.

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Alternatively, you can use an eSIM for mobile internet, provided that your smartphone supports it.

Important: An eSIM can be very convenient for mobile data, but it does not replace a Kenyan SIM card if you want to use M-Pesa.

Network coverage can vary depending on the route. In remote regions, there may be little or no reception.

Electricity & Charging

Kenya uses Type G plugs. The voltage is 240 volts at 50 Hz and is therefore generally compatible with the European standard.

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For smartphones, cameras and other electronic devices, we recommend bringing a travel adapter and a power bank.

At remote accommodation, the electricity supply may be limited or only available at certain times. A flashlight or headlamp should therefore also be part of your luggage.

Especially in remote regions and at accommodation powered by generators, voltage fluctuations or surges can also occur. These can damage sensitive electronic devices.
If you are bringing expensive cameras, laptops or other sensitive electronics, we therefore recommend using a suitable surge protector rated for 240 volts.

Photography & Drones

Kenya offers countless opportunities for impressive photos and videos.

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On safari, animals are not always seen from very close range – after all, we encounter them in their natural habitat.
Especially with a smartphone, animals that are some distance away often cannot be photographed in as much detail as you may know from professional safari photography. This generally requires an appropriate focal length or telephoto lens.

Binoculars can also be very helpful for wildlife viewing – particularly on longer game drives and in open landscapes.

It is important to us that the animals and their behavior always come first. We do not want animals to be disturbed or approached unnecessarily closely just to get a better photograph. For us, keeping a respectful distance is part of a good safari.

Drones are subject to specific regulations in Kenya. Anyone wishing to bring a drone should find out about the current regulations and any required permits well in advance.

Insurance

We recommend travel insurance for every trip to Kenya, particularly international health insurance.

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Depending on the journey, cancellation or travel interruption insurance may also be advisable.

Please find out about suitable insurance coverage well in advance of your journey.

Our Tip

You do not need to try to prepare for every possible situation.

Before your journey, we will discuss with you what is important for your specific route.

The more remote and individual a journey is, the more important good preparation, flexibility and the right expectations become.

And if something does turn out differently from planned along the way, we will find a solution together.

On the Trip

What you can expect during your journey through Kenya and what is important to know while traveling.

Transport & Vehicles

We always travel in a suitable 4x4 vehicle. Depending on the group size, route and requirements, the vehicle may vary. This allows us to remain flexible on unpaved roads and more remote routes.

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Our journeys also involve longer driving distances. More remote regions cannot always be reached quickly, and some roads are unpaved or may become more difficult to travel on depending on the weather and time of year.

Depending on the route, individual driving days can last several hours. The longest stages may take around 6–8 hours, while other journeys are considerably shorter.
In return, you will experience landscapes and regions away from the classic routes along the way.

Depending on the journey, hiking and other active experiences may also be included. The physical effort varies from route to route.

For luggage, we recommend a soft travel bag or backpack rather than a suitcase, as these are easier to store in the vehicle.

Accommodation

We select accommodation according to the respective route, region and journey. Depending on the itinerary, we stay in hotels, lodges, camps or smaller, locally run properties.

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Especially in remote regions, the choice can be limited and accommodation may be simpler and functional. Depending on the property, showers and toilets may be shared.

It is important to us that the accommodation is clean, safe and suitable for the particular journey.

The specific accommodation for each night is listed in the detailed itinerary of the respective journey.

Meals

We try to include meals in the travel price wherever possible. Depending on the route, these may be served at the accommodation, in a restaurant or as a packed lunch or picnic.

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We also try to accommodate individual dietary requirements and vegetarian diets. In remote regions, however, the choice may be limited. We discuss the available options with the accommodation in advance.

Drinks are not included in the travel price and are paid for separately on site.

Drinking Water

Tap water in Kenya is generally not suitable as drinking water and should not be consumed directly from the tap. On the coast, the water may also have a salty or brackish taste depending on the region.

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However, drinking water is readily available almost everywhere and can be bought in bottles along the way. On longer drives and in remote regions, we nevertheless recommend always carrying enough drinking water with you.

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory everywhere in Kenya, but it is appreciated for good service and is customary in many areas.

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Tipping can be appropriate as a recognition of good service, particularly for drivers, safari guides, local guides and staff at accommodation.

If you would like to tip, it is best to give it directly and preferably in cash.

How much you would like to give is, of course, entirely up to you. If you are unsure, you can always ask us during the journey.

Language

The two main languages in Kenya are Swahili and English. English is spoken in many areas of everyday life and in tourism.

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During your journey, we are your contacts in German and English. For individual activities, you may also be accompanied by local guides, who generally speak English and/or Swahili.

Respect & Cultural Encounters

Kenya is a culturally diverse country. When meeting people locally, we particularly value openness, respect and genuine interest from our guests.

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When photographing people, you should always ask for permission first. We also make sure that visits to villages or cultural communities take place respectfully.

We want our journeys not only to create wonderful experiences for our guests, but also to be fair and respectful towards the people we meet along the way.

Safety

Kenya is a diverse travel destination. Some of our routes pass through remote regions where infrastructure is considerably less developed than in more established tourist areas.

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As in many countries, there are also regions and situations in Kenya where particular caution is advisable. The security situation can vary depending on the region and the time.

When planning our journeys, we take current conditions and travel advisories into account and choose our routes accordingly. During your journey, we are available as your points of contact.

Traveling in Remote Regions. On some routes, there are only a few petrol stations, shops or medical facilities. We therefore plan fuel stops, supplies and driving distances according to the respective route.

We also take the local conditions into account when selecting accommodation and activities.

Safety on Safari. The relevant safety rules and instructions of the guides apply during safaris and activities in nature. Wildlife is always observed from a safe distance.

We are moving through the animals’ natural habitat. Sightings cannot be guaranteed, and we do not drive closer to animals simply to allow for a better photograph.

Health & Emergencies. Especially in more remote regions, medical care may not always be comparable to European standards. Depending on the route, the nearest medical facility may be some distance away.

We take this into account when planning our routes and will support you in organizing the necessary medical assistance in the event of an emergency.

Flexibility

A journey through Kenya does not always run exactly according to schedule.

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Roads can change due to rain, vehicles can break down, schedules can change or a planned activity may suddenly not be possible.

Especially when traveling to more remote regions, a certain degree of flexibility and a sense of adventure are part of the experience.

We plan carefully and try to anticipate possible difficulties. At the same time, our own experience has taught us that in Kenya you sometimes have to find a different solution from the one originally planned. That is exactly where we support you.

Booking Process

From your first inquiry to the journey itself. A journey with us does not begin with a ready-made standard program. We first want to understand what you are looking for from your Kenya journey.

  1. 1

    Your Inquiry

    Tell us when you would like to travel, how many people you will be traveling with and what particularly interests you.

    You can also tell us whether there are specific regions, activities or special wishes you already have in mind.

    Send an inquiry
  2. 2

    Personal Consultation

    After your inquiry, we stay in close contact with you – by email or through a personal conversation via WhatsApp or Zoom.

    We discuss your wishes, preferred travel dates and expectations, and find the route that suits you best.

    If you do not yet have a specific route in mind, we are happy to help you choose the right journey.

  3. 3

    Individual Planning

    Based on your wishes, we adapt the selected journey to what is possible on the respective route.

    We take into account, among other things, your travel dates, group size, interests and preferred activities. Depending on the route, additional nights or an extension of the journey may also be possible.

    We then agree on the planned itinerary with you.

  4. 4

    Your Quote

    You will then receive an individual quote with the planned itinerary, included services and total price.

    You can review the quote at your leisure and contact us at any time if you have questions or would like to make changes.

  5. 5

    Booking

    If you decide to go ahead with the journey, we will discuss the booking and payment conditions with you and then confirm the journey.

  6. 6

    Preparation

    Before your journey, we will provide you with all the important information you need to prepare.

    We will discuss your arrival, meeting point, luggage, clothing and everything else that is important for your specific route.

  7. 7

    Let’s Go

    Then your journey can begin.

    We are your points of contact throughout your journey and are there to support you with any questions or changes. For individual activities, we work with local guides and partners on the ground.

    Kenya is waiting for you.

Prices & Booking

Everything you should know about booking, the travel price and what is included.

How Much Does a Journey Cost?

For each of our journeys, you will find a starting price per person, giving you an approximate idea of the cost before making an inquiry.

The actual price depends, among other things, on the time of year, group size, duration, accommodation, vehicle and included activities.

If you tell us your wishes and preferred travel dates, we will prepare an individual quote with the specific services and total price.

Prices are per person based on shared accommodation in a double room. Single supplement on request.

What Is Included in the Travel Price?

  • Private 4×4 vehicle throughout the entire trip
  • Personal support and a direct point of contact throughout the journey – in German and English
  • Local English-speaking guides for the activities included
  • Airport transfer on arrival in Nairobi
  • Accommodation as specified in the itinerary
  • Meals as specified
  • National park and entrance fees
  • Additional activities as described

What Is Not Included in the Travel Price?

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Visa or fees for entry (eTA)
  • Drinks
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips
  • Souvenirs and personal purchases
  • Services not specifically listed as included

Your Questions

Here you will find answers to the most important questions about our journeys, planning and traveling in Kenya.

Our Trips

How many people are your trips designed for?

Our journeys are designed for 2–6 people. You can travel as a couple, with friends or as a small group. If you inquire as an individual or as a couple, we can also, if you wish, check whether other guests would like to join your trip and form a small group.

This keeps the group small and personal, with a maximum of six people.

Can we customize the journey to our wishes?

Yes. Our journeys can be customized to a certain extent.

Depending on the route, time available and conditions on the ground, we can, for example, change activities, arrange additional nights or place greater emphasis on particular interests.

During the planning process, we discuss your wishes and see what can be sensibly incorporated into the respective journey.

Which regions and routes do you offer?

We offer various round trips through northern, western, central and southern Kenya.

Our existing routes include deserts, volcanic landscapes and remote regions in the north, highlands, rainforest and Lake Victoria in the west, as well as national parks and diverse landscapes in the south and along the Kenyan coast.

You can find the individual tours under “Our Trips”. Depending on the route and your wishes, individual elements can be adapted or added.

Discover our trips
Can we also travel as a couple?

Yes. Our journeys are available from 2 people.

If you would like to travel as a couple, you can book the journey as your own small group. If you prefer to travel as part of a small group, we can check whether other guests would like to join your trip. Groups are limited to a maximum of six people.

This means you can decide whether you would rather travel privately as a couple or together with other travelers.

How long do your journeys last?

The duration of our round trips varies depending on the route and program. The journeys presented on the website each have a set duration, but can be adapted or extended within certain limits.

If you have more time, we can, for example, plan additional nights, extend the safari or arrange a stay on the coast.

When is the best time to travel to Kenya?

Kenya can generally be visited year-round. However, there is no single best time to visit – it depends greatly on the particular route, region and planned activities.

Especially on our more individual routes, weather, road conditions and circumstances on the ground also play a role.

If you tell us when you would like to travel and which route interests you, we can discuss what the journey is like at that time of year.

On the Trip

Who can we contact during the journey?

We are your points of contact throughout your journey. If questions arise, something changes or you need any support, you can contact us at any time.

For individual activities, we also work with local guides who know their region and the respective activities first-hand.

What vehicles are used for the journeys?

We always travel in a suitable 4x4 vehicle. Depending on the group size, route and requirements, the vehicle may vary.

This allows us to remain flexible on unpaved roads and more remote routes.

How long are the driving days and how demanding is the journey?

Our journeys also involve longer driving distances. More remote regions cannot always be reached quickly, and some roads are unpaved or may become more difficult to travel on depending on the weather and time of year.

Depending on the route, individual driving days can last several hours. The longest stages may take around 6–8 hours, while other journeys are considerably shorter.

In return, you will experience landscapes and regions away from the classic routes along the way. Depending on the journey, hiking and other active experiences may also be included. The physical effort varies from route to route.

Are the journeys suitable for people who are not particularly active?

That depends on the particular route. Some of our journeys involve more hiking and physical activity and require a good level of fitness, while others are less physically demanding and focus more on landscapes, culture and safari.

Of course, you do not have to take part in every activity. If, for example, you would like to skip a hike, we can discuss during the planning stage whether and how this can be organized on the particular route.

If you tell us before booking what you feel physically comfortable doing, we can discuss which route and activities are suitable for you.

Can we skip activities or make changes along the way?

Basically, yes. Our journeys allow a certain amount of flexibility for individual wishes.

Whether an activity can be skipped, changed or replaced with something else depends on the particular route, arrangements that have already been made and the conditions on the ground.

If something changes during the journey or you have a spontaneous request, we will discuss together what is possible.

What happens if things do not go according to plan?

Especially when traveling through more remote regions, things can change at short notice. A road may become impassable, a vehicle may break down, an activity may be canceled or a schedule may change.

We plan our journeys carefully, but our own experience has taught us that not everything can be predicted.

If plans need to change, we will find a good alternative together and adapt the itinerary as needed.

Accommodation & Meals

What type of accommodation do you use?

We select accommodation according to the respective route, region and journey. Depending on the itinerary, we stay in hotels, lodges, camps or smaller, locally run properties.

Especially in remote regions, the choice can be limited and accommodation may be simpler and functional. Depending on the property, showers and toilets may be shared.

It is important to us that the accommodation is clean, safe and suitable for the particular journey.

Are meals and drinks included in the travel price?

We try to include meals in the travel price wherever possible. Depending on the route, these may be served at the accommodation, in a restaurant or as a packed lunch or picnic.

We also try to accommodate individual dietary requirements and vegetarian diets. In remote regions, however, the choice may be limited.

Drinks are not included in the travel price and are paid for separately on site.

Booking & Prices

How does the booking process work?

You first send us a non-binding travel inquiry with your wishes and preferred travel dates.

We then discuss together which route suits you best and what adaptations are possible. Based on this, we prepare an individual quote.

If you like the quote, we will discuss the next steps and the booking and payment conditions with you.

How much does a journey cost?

For each of our journeys, you will find a starting price per person, giving you an approximate idea of the cost before making an inquiry.

The actual price depends, among other things, on the time of year, group size, duration, accommodation, vehicle and included activities.

If you tell us your wishes and preferred travel dates, we will prepare an individual quote with the specific services and total price.

Can we extend the journey or add extra days?

Yes. Depending on the route, we can arrange additional days and nights.

Popular options include extensions on the Kenyan coast, but additional safari days or other experiences may also be possible depending on the route.

If you already know that you would like to stay in Kenya for longer before or after your round trip, we can take this into account directly when planning your journey.

Which airport should we fly to?

This depends on the particular journey and your itinerary. For most of our round trips, Nairobi is the starting point.

Depending on the route, the journey may end on the Kenyan coast, allowing you to take your return flight from Mombasa, for example.

If you have not yet booked your flights, it is best to discuss this with us beforehand – we can advise you which airport makes the most sense for your planned journey.

Still Not Sure About Something?

Just ask us. We would rather answer one question too many than have you travel with the wrong expectations.

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