For visitors coming to Kenya for the first time, there are many unanswered questions — what do we pack, what are the entry requirements and so on. To make your visit a truly relaxing and well-prepared one, here are the answers to all those questions.
All the information contained herein is given in good faith and has been carefully compiled. It must be accepted that details will change from time to time! And of course, please feel free to contact us with any questions you may still have.
For your comfort and to meet domestic aviation requirements, we recommend travelling with soft-sided luggage rather than hard suitcases, as smaller safari aircraft have limited storage space.
Packing for a Kenyan safari can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s a simple, practical guide to help you prepare with ease. Download our suggested Kicheche Safari Packing Guide below.
Please consult a medical practitioner for the complete up-to-date requirements. Due to the low to moderate malaria risk at our camps, it is advisable that you take malaria prophylaxis. Once again consult a medical practitioner on which prophylactic is recommended.
In all likelihood, your travel agent has secured all of this information for you. If you are not working with a travel agent, then a member of the Kicheche team would have already assisted you to this point, however should you need to contact someone, please email sales@kicheche.com.
Kenya replaced its eVisa system on 1st January 2024 with an Electronic Travel Authorisation system (eTA), which is now operational. Apart from holders of valid Kenya Passports, holders of Kenya Permanent Residence, valid Work Permits and Passes and Citizens of the East African Partner States, all visitors, including infants and children, who intend to travel to the Republic of Kenya, must have an approved eTA before the start of their journey.
Visitors must apply for the eTA via www.etakenya.go.ke and pay a processing fee of USD 34. All eTA applications for Kenya should be submitted at least 3 days before travel to ensure adequate time for authorisation; however, travellers can submit their applications as early as 3 months before travel. It is highly recommended that travellers apply as soon as they have booked their accommodations and flight tickets, and we suggest that families apply as a group.
Travel insurance is essential. It is advisable to take out your policy well in advance, as most policies cover cancellation fees in the event of an emergency preventing you from travelling.
Kicheche feels the wilderness should instil wonder in every generation. Our children’s activities inspire curiosity and a love for nature through exciting adventures, creative exploration, and hands-on learning guided by our experienced team.
Please note that the minimum age at Kicheche Valley Camp and Kicheche Bush Camp is 7 years.
Safari activities for children (ages 6–14 | supervised by our child-friendly guides):
At Kicheche Mara North:
At Kicheche Laikipia:
Young explorers can enjoy guided camp walks, soft archery, and a unique Ol Pejeta anti-poaching dog experience (12+years) with an exciting hide-and-seek demonstration. Visits to the Morani Information Centre add an educational touch to their safari.
In East Africa, it is customary to tip the staff at your lodge or camp. A general guideline is to allocate approximately $20 to $40 per person per day, to be divided between your guide and the camp staff. Camp staff tip is given to the camp manager, who will provide a tip envelope the night before departure. Guides are to be tipped directly.
Tipping can be done in either US dollars or Kenyan shillings and should be given at the end of your guests’ stay. It’s important to note that tipping is not mandatory and should only be done if you are satisfied with the service provided. We accept tips via credit cards.
