Kenya Travel Guide
From Nairobi’s parks and museums to the Maasai Mara’s plains and the Indian Ocean coast — everything you need to plan a trip to Kenya.
Kenya’s capital and gateway
Most Kenya trips start in Nairobi, home to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and a city that pairs wildlife — Nairobi National Park sits minutes from downtown — with museums, restaurants and a growing business and tech scene. See our full Nairobi travel guide for where to stay, what to do and how to get around.
Kenya’s signature experience
The Maasai Mara is Kenya’s best-known safari destination, especially July–October during the wildebeest migration. Amboseli, with its Mount Kilimanjaro backdrop, and Lake Nakuru are also popular add-ons for a multi-park itinerary from Nairobi.
Mombasa, Diani & the Indian Ocean
Kenya’s coast — Mombasa, Diani Beach, Watamu and Malindi — offers white-sand beaches, coral reefs and a distinct Swahili culture, and pairs naturally with a safari for travelers who want both wildlife and beach time in one trip.
Domestic travel within Kenya
Domestic flights connect Nairobi to Mombasa, the Maasai Mara and other regional airstrips quickly. For overland travel, ride-hailing apps and matatus (shared minibuses) cover Nairobi, while safari transfers are typically arranged through your lodge or tour operator.
Western Kenya: Seven Counties Worth the Detour
Lake Victoria, South Rift tea country and quiet Luo heartland — three counties most itineraries skip entirely, worth a detour for travelers who’ve already done the safari-and-coast circuit.
Visa requirements
Most visitors need a Kenya eTA (electronic travel authorization) arranged online before arrival. Requirements and processing times can change, so confirm current rules with Kenya’s official immigration portal before you book flights.
Currency & payments
Kenya uses the Kenyan shilling (KES). Cards are accepted at hotels, lodges and city restaurants; M-Pesa mobile money is widely used locally but generally requires a Kenyan SIM to set up. Carry some cash for markets, tips and rural areas.
Frequently asked questions
Start planning
Nairobi Travel Guide
Where to stay, what to do
Maasai Mara
Kenya’s signature safari
Mombasa
Coast & Old Town
Tanzania
Serengeti, Kilimanjaro & Zanzibar
Uganda
Gorilla trekking & the Nile
Rwanda
Gorillas & Kigali
Flights to Kenya
Compare fares to Nairobi
Hotels & lodges
City stays and safari camps
eSIMs for Kenya
Stay connected on arrival
Bike Rentals
Explore on two wheels