Kenya Travel Guide

4 Things You Need to Know before traveling to Kenya

Traveling to Kenya is an incredible experience, and being prepared can make your trip even more enjoyable. From knowing how to navigate the airport and local transportation to using Mpesa for seamless payments, these tips will help you make the most of your adventure.

First Impressions at the Airport

My first impression of Kenya was very positive. The airport was well-organized, and I was able to retrieve my luggage quickly without anything missing or broken. Conveniently, there is a bank right at the airport where you can withdraw money, which is perfect if you want to buy snacks or tip someone.

There are also telecom boutiques where you can purchase a local SIM card. While getting a local phone plan is a great idea, I wouldn’t recommend buying it at the airport as prices tend to be higher. Instead, you can get a SIM card at any mall—just don’t forget to bring your passport, as it’s required for the purchase.

How to Exit the Airport

To leave the airport, you have a few options. While taxis are readily available onsite, they are often more expensive than necessary. A great tip is to use Uber to get an idea of the regular fare. You can then either negotiate with a local taxi driver or take an Uber directly.

Since I didn’t have internet access upon arrival, I opted for a local taxi. I negotiated the fare successfully, but I was caught off guard when the driver asked if I wanted to take the highway. I agreed, not realizing that this would increase the cost beyond our agreed price since the highway is a toll road. Be sure to clarify this upfront to avoid surprises.

Mpesa: Kenya’s Digital Wallet

Mpesa is a widely-used digital wallet in Kenya that allows you to store money and pay for almost anything, from services to everyday purchases. One of its biggest advantages is that you don’t have to carry cash or worry about securing it in your hotel room. To add money to your Mpesa account, you can visit an Mpesa shop with cash, and they will upload the funds for you. Keep in mind that you’ll need to bring your passport (not a copy) to create an account.

This service is used across Kenya. Even in the most remote villages, Mpesa is widely accepted. You can use it to pay for tuk-tuk taxis, items at local markets, rent, hair appointments, and more. It’s incredibly convenient, but there is a small fee for every transaction (less than a dollar). As a tourist, you’ll face fees when withdrawing money from an ATM and fees for all of your Mpesa charges, which can add up. It’s worth considering whether carrying cash or relying on your digital wallet will be more cost-effective/convenient for your trip.

Transportation Tips

When I arrived in Kenya, I was thrilled to discover that Uber is available there. I love Uber for its convenience—you can order a ride without stepping outside, and the fares are fair and transparent. However, in Kenya, I encountered a surprising situation: some drivers called me after I booked a ride to request additional payment, claiming that Uber doesn’t pay them fairly. This was unexpected, as I’ve never experienced this in other countries I’ve visited.

If this happens to you, don’t worry. Simply cancel the ride and request a new one—not all drivers will ask for more money. Uber remains a convenient and reliable option for getting around Kenya.

Now that I have enlighten you with all of my pre-trip advice, you can pack your bags and get ready to explore this amazing destination! Look out for my upcoming blogs for more information on excursions, accommodations, food recos!