Kenya is a captivating country in East Africa, known for its diverse culture and landscapes. It is famous for safari tours and beautiful beaches, offering encounters with various wildlife.
CapitalNairobi
Population53,771,296
Official language(s)English, Swahili
CurrencyKenyan Shilling
Time zoneUTC+3
Respect the local culture and always follow safety guidelines during safari tours.
Most ordinary tourists must obtain a Kenya eTA before travel, and the stay is commonly up to 90 days, though visa exemption and the allowed period can vary by nationality. The eTA is separate from a visa and also separate from any online customs or health declarations, so prepare these as different procedures. Kenya generally uses electronic processing rather than a paper arrival card, and cash declaration thresholds can change, so check the latest customs guidance before departure.
Check eTA and passport
Have your Kenya eTA and passport ready to present on arrival. Your passport should usually have sufficient validity remaining, and officers may ask for a return or onward ticket and your travel plan.
Answer immigration questions
Briefly explain that your purpose is tourism, and answer truthfully if asked for your accommodation address, length of stay, or proof of funds. If needed, show your flight booking confirmation or hotel reservation to help the process go smoothly.
Follow electronic processing
Kenya relies more on electronic processing than on paper arrival cards, so you may be asked to provide biometrics such as fingerprints or a facial image again as directed. Use of e-gates or a separate counter can depend on the airport and passport type, so follow the signs.
Check restricted imports
Meat, dairy, fruit, plants, and seeds can be subject to quarantine rules, so do not bring them in without checking the declaration requirements. Even non-commercial gifts may be inspected, so it is safer to ask customs if in doubt.
Recheck stay validity and ticket
Before departure, make sure you have not exceeded the stay allowed by your visa or eTA. The airline check-in counter may ask for your passport, boarding pass, and, if needed, proof of onward travel.
Check VAT refund procedures at the airport
Whether VAT refunds are available for purchases made in Kenya, and which airport, desk, and documents are required, depends on the merchant and the current system. Usually you need receipts, your passport, and unused goods, so check the store instructions and airport procedure before departure.
Pass exit control and security
When departing, present your passport and boarding pass, and go through exit control and security screening if required. Airport layouts vary, so follow the terminal and airline counter instructions on your boarding pass.