You are about to begin your journey to the land of first-class diversity, from snow tops in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania to sunny white beaches at the coast regions along the East African coast. Also the diverse culture and beautiful breath taking sceneries all over East Africa will leave your mind with photographic memories that you shall remember all your life. Beads Safaris Collection has put together briefs for all your travel information needs that will let you acquaint yourself with what to expect in East Africa before you arrive.
VISA
Please ensure that you have your visa in hand at least a week prior to arrival. Also carry all necessary documentation (including copies) even after you have received your Visa.
East Africa Tourist Visa: The East Africa Tourist Visa will allow travel between Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda with the same multiple entry visa. This visa is the result of a joint initiative made by the Heads of States of the respective partner countries to boost regional travel and create opportunities for tourists to explore the diversity of East Africa. Travelers from any country can obtain a multiple entry visa that will allow entry to the Republic of Kenya, the Republic of Rwanda, and the Republic of Uganda for tourism over period of 90 days at USD$ 100 per visa.
Kenya Visa: The Kenyan government has made changes to the visa application procedure for travellers going in to Kenya. Visitors can now apply for their visas online before arrival at the airport, the approval process will take approximately up to 7 days. To apply for a Kenyan Visa, please click here https://immigration.ecitizen.go.ke/index.php?id=5
Passport
Make sure your passport is valid and store it separately and in a safe place. While on safari, you will be required to carry your passport around frequently.
Insurance & Medical Care:
We strongly recommend you have travel insurance in place as at time unexpected events or accidents can leave you with cancelled plans and significant unbudgeted expenses. We work with two reputable travel insurance providers with whom you can gain easy online quotations.
It is recommended you seek medical advice at least six weeks before your departure. Record all vaccinations on an International Health Certificate, available from your doctor or government health department, and carry it with you.
Climate
Although Kenya sits on the Equator, not all of the country is hot. Some parts are actually quite cold. Elevation is the major determinate of temperature. Elevation ranges from sea level to 15,600 feet. Temperature, rainfall and humidity variations are extreme.
There are basically three climatic regions in Kenya:
- the tropical coast,
- the dry plains, and
- the fertile highlands
The coast is tropically warm and humid with cool ocean breezes. The dry plains dominate much of northern Kenya and some other parts, where savanna grasslands characterize the plains.
Temperatures are hot, and humidity is low. The fertile highlands include most of the Rift Valley and make up about a fourth of Kenya’s total land area. The sun is strong everywhere, and dust is often a problem.
Kenya experiences wide seasonal changes. There are two rainy seasons:
- The long rains occur from late March to early June and
- Short rains from October to November or early December.
Temperatures are coolest in June and July, coinciding with the animal migration from the Serengeti to the Maasai Mara. The rains settle the dust and stimulate another migration of animals to drier areas, now green with life. December, January, and February are the warmest months. Daytime temperatures rarely exceed 90 degrees F; evening temperatures are much cooler. It is generally dry and clear during these months, and animals concentrate around waterholes. Extreme temperatures in Nairobi range from 50 degrees to 90 degrees.
Money
You can exchange money at banks or with change agents at fixed rates. They will give you a receipt – which you must keep! (You will later need it for tax clearance upon your departure) – and you will need to show your passport and give your signature.
Exchange Rates: Check www.xe.com or local daily papers for current listings of exchange rates and stock Indices once you get here. Use your discretion as per rates offered in choosing a bank or an airport to exchange money.