• Population: 53 million
• Capital: Nairobi
• Demographics: 99% of Kenya's population is black African, with up to 42 native populations represented, such as Bantus (67%), Nilotes (30%), and others. Religiously, Kenyans are majority Christian (83%), followed by 11% Muslim, and 6% traditionalist, other, or none.
• Type of government: Presidential representative democratic republic
• Currency: Kenyan Shilling
• Common foods: ugali, sukuma wiki, nyama choma, chapati, githeri, and more.

Swahili and English are Kenya's official languages. Other native languages spoken include Kikuyu, Luhya, Dholuo, and more. Many people in Kenya know English, as it is one of the country's nationally recognized official languages.

As a University of Illinois student, you have access to library resources (such as Rosetta Stone and Libguides). You may also want to consider free sources to learn basic phrases, or to refresh your language skills prior to departure.

It is each students responsibility to independently verify the visa information below and ensure they apply and secure the appropriate documentation to travel and stay in their host country for the duration of their program.

All visitors to Kenya require an e-visa, and you should consulate the Kenyan consulate for details on obtaining one. Below are some notes from programs in the past:

• Visitors are encouraged by Kenyan international services to apply for a visa online prior to entering the country.
• You should have proof of yellow fever immunizations, or you may be denied entry.

To read more on passport and visa terminology see the Passports & Visas page of this website.

It is each students responsibility to independently verify the visa information below and ensure they apply and secure the appropriate documentation to travel and stay in their host country for the duration of their program.

All travelers visiting Kenya receive a Yellow Fever vaccination. You will need to provide proof of the vaccination upon entry.

Phones

• International roaming plans using your US cell phone can get very expensive for international calling, so consult your local cell provider to discuss your options.
• It is recommended to purchase a local cell data plan via local SIM card.
• The two major cell providers in Kenya are Safaricom and Celtel. Read about cell coverage and data plans in Kenya.
• Make sure you have the Duo Mobile app set up on your phone. If you get a new SIM card, use the passcode options instead of PUSH, or go to UI Verify website to enter your new phone information.

Calling Codes

• International Telephone Code (calling from the U.S.): + 011
• Kenya Country Code (calling from all other countries): +254

Internet

• Network coverage in Kenya varies by region. There is no network service in the northern part of the country, but the south, where the more populated areas are located and where tourists usually stay, have good network connection in-country.
• You may be able to find WiFi at hotels in big cities, but not nearly as much as in the U.S.

Electricity

• A large part of Kenya's electricity, roughly 43%, comes from the sustainable source of hydroelectricity.
• Kenya uses Type G electric plugs with 3 flat prongs arranged in a triangle (pictured below), instead of two flat ones like in the U.S. You will need to purchase a plug adapter to use any electronic devices or appliances brought from the U.S.
• Voltage levels are very similar to those used in the US, but it is still recommended to purchase a joint voltage converter/plug adapter to avoid risk of damaging your appliances or electronics.
• Dual purpose voltage converters/plug adapters are available for purchase online or at electronics stores.

Banking Tips

• It is recommended to make the majority of your purchases in Kenya in local currency. Always have some local currency ready to use in cash for daily purchases and in case of emergencies.
• Some of the main local bank operators in Kenya include Stanbic Bank, Bank of Africa, KCB Bank, CBA, and Barclays Kenya. All of these banks have branches in major cities and towns in Kenya, where you can use your US debit card to withdraw local currency.
• Be sure to consult your local US bank for information about international transaction fees, ATM fees depending on the card(s) you are planning to use, and to advise your bank of your travels so that your accounts are not blocked.

Geography

• Lake Victoria, the second largest freshwater lake in the world after Lake Superior in North America, is located in Kenya.
• All of the Big Five animal species, including elephants, buffalo, lions, rhinos, and leopards, are found in Kenya. Hunting is illegal.

Climate

• Kenya's climate is highly variable depending on the region, but is generally characterized by a hot and dry season from October to March, and a cooler and wetter windy season from April to September. Shorter rains are between October and December, while the longer rainy season is from March to May.
• Conditions are hot and humid along the coastline (average of 90 degrees Fahrenheit), temperate in the west and southwest mountain and plateau regions, and hot and dry in the north and east.

Packing

• It is recommended to pack light, breathable clothing, especially for the summer months and for time spent on the hotter coastline.
• For hiking, cool evenings, or time spent in the mountains and plateau regions, it is a good idea to pack clothing in layers, including some long-sleeved items, jackets, and long pants.
• Sunscreen and other types of sun coverage such as hats and shawls are essential, especially in higher altitudes. A light rain jacket or umbrella is also a good idea for rainy periods.
• You will definitely need comfortable walking shoes.
• For more packing considerations, view the Packing List (PDF).

Traveling Safely

• Traffic moves on the left side of the road, which can be disorienting. Be careful when crossing the street.
• Most passenger trains are considered unsafe, particularly during rainy seasons, because of the lack of routine maintenance and safety checks. The only approved train route for USG personnel is the SGR from Nairobi to Mombasa. However, passengers should ride only in the first class cabin to avoid pickpockets and facilitate a rapid exit if necessary.

Traveling Locally

• Public buses and Matatus (privately-owned minibuses) are the cheapest and most popular way to get around Kenya. Public bus schedules are more consistent and quieter, whereas Matatu schedules are sporadic and irregular. Fares for buses and Matutus are paid onboard.

Flights

• Major airports include: JKIA Airport in Nairobi, Kisumu Airport Nairobi, and Eldoret Airport
• Common airlines include: Ethiopian Air, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Precision Air Services

Each student faces different barriers and unique challenges based on their identity. For example, how you identify in the United States may not be how you choose to identify abroad because of the local social culture. We encourage all students to reflect on the different aspects of their identity and consider how they may play a role in their study abroad experience. To help with this thought process: visit the State Department website and look into the Identity & Inclusion resources available on this website.

Note: LGBTQIA+ travelers should know that Kenyan law criminalizes same-sex sexual activity.

International Safety and Security provides important wellness tips, along with using your insurance and the emergency phone number. Be sure to become familiar with this website and the resources available to you. Review the U.S. Embassy page and the Department of State website for additional safety resources.

Enroll yourself in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the U.S. Department of State. Registration in STEP will allow you to get alerts on the latest safety and security information. In addition, the information you provide enables the U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in an emergency.