The People:
While the national language of Kenya is Kiswahili, English is the official language and is widely spoken and understood across East Africa.
Safety:
Don’t walk in apparently deserted areas, especially in and around the cities. It is preferable and usually more enjoyable to walk with company or in groups. Don’t carry large sums of cash in your purse or pocket or display expensive jewelry. Be aware of the possibility of pick-pockets and bag snatchers in crowded areas. Nairobi is like any major city in the world be it New York, London or Paris. Don’t leave money or valuables in a hotel room. Most hotels offer safety deposit box service.
While on Safari, always remember that the animals are wild, and hence keep your distance. It is illegal to feed any animal in the wild, make excessive noise to attract their attention, or deviate from designated roads for that closer photograph. Never get out of your vehicle except at designated points. Close all windows and zippers when you leave your room or tent.
Currency and banking:
The amount of money in any currency brought into the country is not limited. Only change your money at the hotels, in official banks and bureau de change.
Note: Old US dollar notes (printed 1996 – 1999) are not acceptable in Kenya and should be avoided. Also, the exchange value for smaller notes ($5 to $20) is often less than the value for $50 and $100 bills.
It is advisable to change some small amount into local currency to use for tipping and buying curios. The currency in Kenya is the Kenya shillings and is divided into various denominations the highest being a note of 1,000/-, 500/-, 200/-, 100/-, 50/-.. Apart from small vendors most establishment do accept Cards.
Shopping and bargaining:
Bargaining is particularly used in markets and curio shops. Requesting for the final best price is almost expected and starts off knowing you are being charged tourist prices and end up paying what you think the item is worth to you.
Photography:
Kenya is considered to be a photographers dream destination. From panoramic scenery, wildlife and birds to people and vibrant ceremonies. Rich color and good low lighting conditions abound. Ask for permission before photographing local people. Do not take photographs of any official buildings such as airports; military installations, border posts or roadblocks. You are free to take photos of the Wildlife.
Getting Around:
Taxis are available at a reasonable rate, but the rates are not fixed as many are personal businesses with different pricing therefore you should be able to negotiate before the start of the trip. However, hotels can arrange a chauffeur driven car on request. We can also provide transfers to your destination. Travel between Nairobi and Mombasa can be made by bus or scheduled flights. The rail line is expected to be operational by June 2017 and this will be a game changer with easy connection between Nairobi and the Kenyan Coast.
Clothing:
Clothing is a matter of taste, and laundry service is provided at all hotels/lodges during the safari. Days are warm and nights are cool so dress accordingly.
OVERVIEW
A glance conclusion of what to expect at different time of the year
January: Clear, hot days and warm nights make this high season a popular time for safaris and good for diving and snorkelling.
February: With the long dry season well established, the grass grazed down and wildlife gathering close to water points, this is still a good time for a safari and good water clarity makes for excellent diving conditions.
March: Hot, increasingly humid weather – with good diving and snorkeling conditions at the start of the month – gives way to rains and lower rates.
April: Temperatures drop soon after the rains are established and you’ll often have facilities largely to yourself in this more affordable low season.
May: While game viewing can be trickier as vegetation runs riot, the colors and light are great for photography at this time of year.
June: The rains give way to cloudy, cooler weather, making for very comfortable conditions, especially in the highlands.
July : Kenya’s “cool” season sets in, with the highlands sometimes rather grey, but wildebeest, migrating from the Serengeti, start arriving in the Maasai Mara.
August: The Great Migration fills the Mara plains – and school’s out, so the park roads are full of tourists and most camps and hotels always booked to capacity . Regarded as High season.
September: The clearing skies signal the start of hot, dry weather with little chance of rain – and fewer visitors – making the latter part of this month a good time for a quieter safari.
October: Still hot, mostly dry and not too busy, this is many people’s preferred month for a safari, and it’s also good for diving and snorkeling.
November : The “short rains” usually start in the second half, so this is low season, with accordingly lower rates and visitor numbers.
December: The rains usually finish by mid-month and landscapes often look their best, under clear blue skies, heralding the start of the peak tourist season.
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