For more detailed information, please review the sections below:
For Kenyan citizens and residents, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs offers travel advice and safety guidelines for traveling abroad. We recommend checking their official site for the latest updates: https://mfa.go.ke/
For international travelers visiting Kenya or East Africa, please consult your respective country’s travel advisory services and follow any guidelines related to vaccinations, health, and entry requirements.
✔️ Travel Insurance
Ensure that your travel insurance policy includes medical emergencies, evacuation, trip interruption, and any specific activities you may undertake (e.g. safaris, hiking, diving, etc.).
Need assistance? SAL Holidays can connect you with a trusted insurance partner or help you get a quote when finalizing your travel plans.
✔️ Fitness to Travel
Please speak to your doctor or travel clinic before departure to confirm that you are medically fit to travel. Disclose any pre-existing conditions to your insurer to avoid complications with claims.
✔️ Vaccinations
Check which vaccinations are required or recommended for your destination. For East Africa, common ones include Yellow Fever, Typhoid, Hepatitis A & B, and Tetanus.
Allow time before departure to complete the vaccination schedule.
✔️ Medications
Travel with an adequate supply of any prescribed medication, along with a copy of your doctor’s prescription. Keep them in your hand luggage and verify their legal status in the country you’re visiting.
✔️ Sun Protection
East Africa can get very hot! Pack high-SPF sun lotion, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration or sunstroke.
✔️ In Case of Illness or Emergency
In the event of a medical emergency, immediately contact your travel insurance provider for guidance and assistance. Keep your policy details handy.
✔️ Passports & Visas
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry. Verify visa or e-visa requirements for your destination well in advance — these can change at short notice.
SAL Holidays is happy to guide you through visa requirements for Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, or Zanzibar.
✔️ Children & Travel
If you are traveling with children who have a different surname, or you are a solo parent, certain documents (birth certificates, consent letters) may be required.
More info: www.immigration.go.ke
✔️ Copies & Backups
Keep both physical and digital copies of your passport, ID, insurance policy, and travel documents. Email a copy to yourself and store a set securely in your luggage.
✔️ Driving & Vehicle Rental
Planning to self-drive? Ensure you have a valid Kenyan driving license or an International Driving Permit (IDP) if required.
Note: Most car rental agencies require a credit card in the name of the driver.
Stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded or tourist-heavy areas.
Avoid displaying valuables like phones, cash, or jewelry in public.
Use a money belt or concealed pouch for passports and cards.
✔️ Currency & Cards
Carry a mix of cash (Kenyan Shillings or USD) and cards. Notify your bank in advance to avoid blocked transactions due to suspected fraud.
✔️ Cybersecurity
Avoid logging into personal accounts using public Wi-Fi. Use a VPN where possible for secure browsing.
✔️ Local Laws & Customs
Respect local customs, dress codes (especially in rural or religious areas), and familiarize yourself with national laws. Not all rules are the same as back home!
✔️ Language & Communication
English and Swahili are widely spoken in Kenya. A few basic Swahili phrases — like “Asante” (thank you) or “Habari” (hello) — can go a long way. You can also download a translation app for ease of communication.
If you’re traveling outside Kenya, be sure you know how to contact:
Local emergency services (e.g., 999 or 112)
The Kenyan embassy/consulate in your destination country: https://mfa.go.ke/
Your safety is our priority. Should anything go wrong while you’re away, SAL Holidays is just a phone call or email away.
Emergency Helpline (24/7)
Email: support@salholidays.com
You’ll also find your dedicated travel consultant’s contact details in your SAL Holidays itinerary pack.
