This unique visa allows visitors to travel freely within these countries during the visa’s validity period, making it convenient for tourists who wish to discover multiple destinations in one trip. The application process is straightforward, and once obtained, the visa provides numerous benefits that enhance your travel experience in East Africa.

Key Takeaways

• The East Africa Tourist Visa grants access to Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda with a single document.
• Application process is simple and can be done electronically.
• The visa offers convenience and ease for tourists traveling within the region.

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What is the East Africa Tourist Visa?

The East Africa Tourist Visa is a single, joint electronic visa designed for eligible travelers who wish to visit Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda using a single document. This visa allows you to travel between these three East African countries with multiple entries during its validity period. The primary goal of the East Africa Tourist Visa is to encourage tourism in the region and simplify the process for visitors, making it more financially attractive and convenient.

With an East Africa Tourist Visa, you can enjoy a 90-day stay within a 180-day period, starting from the date of issue. This visa is specifically tailored for tourism purposes and covers the countries of Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. It is a result of a joint initiative made by the Heads of States of these partner countries to promote regional travel and showcase the diversity of East Africa.

Applying for an East Africa Tourist Visa is straightforward. You can apply for it online through a dedicated e-visa portal. It is essential to verify your eligibility before applying, as specific requirements may vary depending on your nationality.

So, if you’re planning a trip to East Africa, consider getting the East Africa Tourist Visa to make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. This multiple entry visa allows you to explore stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultures across Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda with ease and convenience. Happy travels!

Eligibility and Requirements

Eligible Countries

To be eligible for an East African Tourist Visa, you must be a citizen from a country outside of the East African Community (EAC). This includes travelers from the United States and many other countries. The visa grants you access to Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda for tourism purposes¹.

Yellow Fever Vaccination

In addition to having a valid passport with at least 6 months validity from your planned date of entry², you are required to have a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate. This is crucial for your health and safety, as Yellow Fever is prevalent in some parts of East Africa. Keep your certificate handy, as you may need to present it upon arrival in any of the three countries covered by the East African Tourist Visa³.

To apply for the East African Tourist Visa, you can do so online through the various immigration portals of the participating countries, such as the Directorate of Immigration Services for Kenya. Ensure that you have your valid passport, Yellow Fever vaccination certificate, and payment method ready before starting the application process. The approved visa is typically sent to your email within 6 business days².

Application Process

Online Applications

You can apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa through an online e-visa system, which is fast, safe and convenient. To begin, create an account on the platform and fill out the required application form with your personal details and travel information. Ensure that your passport has at least 6 months of validity from your planned date of entry.

After completing the form, carefully double-check all the provided information, and pay the necessary issuing fees. Typically, the processing time for the e-visa is around 48 hours, so plan accordingly.

Visa on Arrival

If you are eligible for a visa on arrival, you may opt to apply in-person when you reach your destination in East Africa. However, it is advised to verify your eligibility with your local embassy or consulate before traveling, as some countries might not offer this service to all nationalities.

Embassy Applications

If you prefer the traditional route, you can apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa at the embassy or consulate of the country you intend to visit first. The application process usually takes around 2 working days, with a visa fee of 100 USD. The visa will be valid for 90 days and allows for multiple entries, allowing you to move between the participating countries with ease.

Fees and Payment Methods

When applying for an East Africa Tourist Visa, it’s essential to understand the associated fees and payment methods. This visa allows you to visit Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, offering a convenient option for travelers interested in exploring multiple countries in the region.

Visa Fee

Regarding the cost of the East Africa Tourist Visa, you need to pay a fee of $100. In comparison, individual country visas cost $55 each. Thus, the East Africa Tourist Visa is an economical choice if you plan to visit all three countries.

To pay the visa fee, you can use a credit or debit card during the online application process. Visa and Mastercard are both secure options for online payment.

Non-Refundable Fees

It’s important to note that the visa fee of $100 is non-refundable. This means that once your payment is made and the immigration authorities process your application, you will not receive a refund under any circumstances. Ensure you have all required information and documentation ready to avoid any issues during the application process and prevent the risk of losing your non-refundable fee.

To summarize, your East Africa Tourist Visa requires a non-refundable fee of $100, which can be paid using a credit or debit card during the online application process.

Visa Validity and Extensions

Validity Period

The East Africa Tourist Visa is valid for 90 days from the date of arrival stated in the application form. With this visa, you have the advantage of a multiple entry visa, allowing you to move within the three participating countries (Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda) without having to apply for another visa or pay additional visa fees ¹.

As a traveler, it’s essential to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the East African region ². If your passport is set to expire before that 6-month period, you should renew it before your trip.

Extensions

Unfortunately, the East Africa Tourist Visa cannot be extended beyond the initial 90-day period ³. If you plan to stay in the region longer than the 90 days, you will need to apply for a separate visa for each country you wish to visit beyond the visa’s expiration date.

Remember to plan your trip accordingly and make the most out of your 90-day stay in the beautiful East African region.

Benefits of the Visa

The East Africa Tourist Visa offers you significant benefits that make it an ideal choice for your trip to Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya. One of the primary features of this visa is its flexibility. By obtaining a single visa, you can explore multiple countries without having to apply for separate visas for each nation. This makes it incredibly convenient, as it enhances your travel experience and encourages you to make the most out of your East African adventure.

Another advantage is the multiple entries option, which means you can visit Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda multiple times during the visa’s validity period. This is particularly helpful if your trip includes safari experiences in various national parks across the three countries. You can customize your itinerary as you wish, knowing that the visa gives you the freedom to travel between these destinations effortlessly.

The visa is designed exclusively for tourism purposes, so if you are looking to experience the beautiful landscapes, fascinating wildlife, and vibrant cultures of East Africa, this is the perfect visa for you. From trekking with gorillas in Rwanda to witnessing the Great Migration in Kenya, your trip will be filled with unforgettable memories.

Keep in mind that the East Africa Tourist Visa is not only a time-saving option but also a cost-effective one. If you were to apply for individual visas to each country, the overall cost would be significantly higher. With this single visa, you can save money while reaping the benefits of a hassle-free application process.

In summary, the East Africa Tourist Visa offers you:

• Flexibility to visit multiple countries with a single visa
• Multiple entries for seamless travel within the region
• Exclusively designed for tourism purposes
• A more cost-effective option compared to obtaining separate visas

So make sure to take advantage of the East Africa Tourist Visa and unlock the incredible experiences awaiting you in these captivating countries.

Tips for a Successful Application

Applying for an East Africa Tourist Visa might seem challenging, but with the right information and approach, you’ll have no issue completing the application process successfully. Here, we provide some tips on submitting a successful application to make your experience easier and more efficient.

First, familiarize yourself with the visa requirements. You will need a valid passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry, a passport-sized photograph, a completed online visa application form, proof of travel itinerary (including flight and hotel bookings), and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in East Africa¹.

When planning your itinerary, ensure that it covers all the countries you plan to visit, which will make it easier for the embassy or consulate to process your visa. Also, make sure to secure your hotel bookings in all the countries you plan to visit, as this will go a long way in proving your intentions for travel.

As you prepare your application, make sure you have all the necessary funds for your trip. It’s wise to have a bank statement, credit card statement, or any other proof of financial stability to demonstrate that you can fund your stay in East Africa. This will help expedite the visa process and minimize any delays.

While applying for your visa online, be thorough in filling out the application form. Double-check all the information you provide to avoid any errors that may cause delays or rejections. Make sure to attach all required supporting documents, such as your passport photo, itinerary, and proof of financial stability.

It’s essential to apply for your visa well in advance of your planned trip. Processing times can vary depending on the embassy or consulate, but it’s a good idea to apply at least a few weeks before your departure. This will ensure that you receive your visa on time and can make any necessary adjustments if there are issues with your application.

Stay patient during the visa process. While it might be tempting to keep checking the status of your application, be aware that constant inquiries may only slow down the process. Trust that the authorities are working diligently on your application and be prepared to wait.

In summary, to ensure a successful East Africa Tourist Visa application, be prepared, organized, and patient. Plan your itinerary, have proof of sufficient funds, hotel bookings, and apply well in advance of your trip. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to exploring the beauty of East Africa.

Points of Entry and Immigration Authorities

When you plan to explore the East African region using an East Africa Tourist Visa, it is vital to be aware of the various entry points and immigration authorities in the participating countries. This visa permits you to visit Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda for tourism purposes.

At the Entebbe International Airport in Uganda, you will encounter immigration authorities managing the entry of travelers into the country. This is a common entry point for visitors and a valuable location for obtaining the necessary clearance when using your East Africa Tourist Visa. Similar immigration authorities can be found at major airports in Kenya and Rwanda as well.

As a holder of the East Africa Tourist Visa, you will enjoy the convenience and cost savings of a single visa application covering all three countries. To apply, you may visit any of the diplomatic representations of the Republic of Kenya, Republic of Rwanda, and Republic of Uganda, or lodge your application at immigration offices in the respective countries. Online applications are also available where applicable, enhancing the ease of securing the required documentation for your trip source.

Keep in mind that while the visa is commonly available, some challenges may still arise in certain situations. Ensure that your travel documents, such as passports, have a minimum of six months validity and be prepared to pay the necessary eVisa fees when applying source.

By being informed about the various entry points and immigration authorities in the region, you can confidently navigate your travels throughout Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda with your East Africa Tourist Visa.

Exclusions and Limitations

When applying for the East Africa Tourist Visa, it’s essential to be aware of some exclusions and limitations. While this visa allows you to visit the three countries of Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, it is not valid for travel to other East African nations such as South Sudan and Burundi. To visit these countries, you must obtain separate visas.

Additionally, the East Africa Tourist Visa is designed specifically for tourism purposes. If you plan to conduct any sort of business during your trip, this type of visa will not be suitable. Instead, you must apply for a different visa category that aligns with your intended activities.

Keep in mind that the East Africa Tourist Visa has a 90-day validity, which means you can travel within these three countries for up to three months without needing to apply for additional visas or pay extra fees. It is a multiple-entry visa, offering flexibility as you explore the region’s diverse attractions. However, once the 90-day period ends, you will need to leave the region, and a new visa must be obtained should you wish to return.

In summary, the East Africa Tourist Visa is an excellent option for travelers looking to explore Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda for tourism purposes. Keep in mind the exclusions and limitations, such as the requirement for separate visas when visiting other East African countries or conducting business. By being aware of these conditions, you can plan a memorable and hassle-free journey.

They are excellent breaks from the noise and hustle of the city. Just a few hours away, you can enjoy a completely different experience with wildlife, hills, and even lakes.

So, is the city getting to you? Here you’ll find a list of day trips from Nairobi you can take when you need a change in scenery and activities. Best part? You won’t be traveling too far from the city.

Naivasha And Hell’s Gate

• View on Google Maps

When it comes to day trips from Nairobi, Naivasha delivers. Whether it’s a road trip with friends, a romantic getaway with your partner, or even a solo trip, you’re going to find something to do here.

First up is the beautiful Lake Naivasha. Catch a boat ride, see some hippos, or chill by the lakeside. Time at the lake is guaranteed to leave you feeling rested.

You can also check out Crater Lake in Naivasha. Here, you can take walks and hikes leading into acacia forests and around the crater rim. Again, it’s a chance to take in the stunning views of the surrounding escarpments.

The Crescent Island Game Park is also a favorite for many looking for day trips from Nairobi. Surrounded by water and only accessible by boat, it’s a scenic location with the bonus of interacting up close with wildlife.

Naivasha’s Hell’s Gate National Park is perfect if you are looking for an adventure to get you moving. It’s one of the few parks in Kenya where you can walk or cycle freely as you see various wildlife and marvel at the beautiful scenery.

Naivasha is just 2-3 hours away from Nairobi city so, consider it the next time you need a day trip. If you don’t know where to begin, there’s a Naivasha travel guide that will be very helpful.

Nairobi National Park

• View on Google Maps

The Nairobi National Park is Kenya’s first national park and Nairobi’s treasure. As the only national park in the world located within a capital city, it is a must-try when it comes to day trips from Nairobi.

The national park has a unique setting; wildlife and green plains with the towers and buildings from Nairobi’s city center in the background!

It is fun for all ages, an adventure that feels removed from Nairobi but is technically still in the city. The park entry fees are USD 35 for non-resident adults and USD 20 for children.

Karen And Langata

• View on Google Maps

Despite being just a few minutes away from Nairobi’s city center, the suburbs of Karen offer a quiet and serene experience. If you are looking for a quick escape from the city, there are plenty of activities in Karen you can check out.

My favorite activity is visiting the Giraffe Center and the David Sheldrick Elephants Orphanage nearby. You get to interact with the giraffes and elephants up close!

Karen has a bunch of malls you can shop from while you are there. Also, check out the Utamaduni Craft Center for some souvenirs, decorations, masks, and clothes. You can also learn some history and see some art pieces at the Karen Blixen Museum.

Next to Karen is Langata, which can be a fun outing for day trips from Nairobi. Here, you can visit the Bomas of Kenya to learn about and enjoy the cultures of the different tribes in Kenya.

Hiking Ngong Hills

• View on Google Maps

Hiking Ngong Hills is fun and an excellent experience for you if you are into physical activities. You can make this an all-day trip from Nairobi and hike all four hills. And if that sounds intense, you can always hike one hill.

Carry a picnic and enjoy it beside the wind turbines as you take in the spectacular views. I’d recommend this as an option for day trips from Nairobi. But you should note, it can get windy and chilly, especially during the cold season.

Kareita Forest

• View on Google Maps

As a day trip from Nairobi, Kereita has enough activities to keep you busy the whole day. It offers zip-lining, archery, mountain biking, paintballing, fly fishing, waterfall, and nature walks all in one location.

The Forest is open every day except Mondays. It, however, stays open if Monday is a public holiday.

Kereita Forest is about an hour and a half from the city.

Rafting On Sagana River

• View on Google Maps

Are you adventurous and looking for some adrenaline rush over the weekend? Then rafting at Sagana River will give you that fix. The wild waters of the Sagana River will leave you spent. But in a good way.

There are also campsites offering activities like camping, kayaking, river trekking, and rock climbing that you can also get into while here. The landscaping and beautifully manicured lawns are ideal for pitching tents so you can have a relaxing evening after an adrenaline-filled day.

The river and campsites are only two hours away from Nairobi, making this one of the popular day trips from Nairobi.

Hiking Mount Longonot

• View on Google Maps

Hiking Mount Longonot is a full-day excursion, but it’s worth the almost two-hour drive from Nairobi. Mount Longonot is an extinct volcano that formed a crater. Something unique about it is the heavy vegetation and the numerous trees around the crater floor.

The hike has two parts: a 1–2-hour ascent to the rim and a walk around the rim for another 2-3 hours. If you are a beginner, you can do the first, but you can take on both hikes if you are looking for a challenge.  

Limuru Tea Farms

• View on Google Maps

Located just an hour’s drive in the city’s outskirts is Limuru, a town known for sprawling tea plantations. Tea is one of Kenya’s main cash crops, and Limuru tea farms are one of the biggest growers.

So, take a drive and marvel at the green, lush, and picturesque tea plantations as far as the eye can see. Plenty of tea estates offer tours, so aside from visiting for leisure and the sweeping views, you can learn all about tea farming.

I’d recommend  Kiambethu Farm; it’s a breathtaking farm, and they offer daily tours from 11 am.

There you go, just a few suggestions for day trips from Nairobi because while she is fantastic, sometimes you need a break. Do you have any more tips on places to visit away from the city? Please leave them in the comments below. 

What’s Your Favourite Day Trip From Nairobi?

Tell us about it in the comments, and we might add it to the list for future readers!

It’s a very simple yet important platform. You don’t need the internet to transact with M-Pesa. Even the most basic phone has full access to M-Pesa. All it needs is an M-Pesa-enabled SIM card, and you’re on.

Almost every shop and service provider in Kenya accepts M-Pesa in one form or another. And there are many ways M-Pesa can benefit you.

Let’s take a deep dive into what M-Pesa is and how to use it.

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What Is M-Pesa Mobile Money?

M-Pesa is a transaction service that allows you to send and receive money on your mobile phone. The service uses retail outlets around the country as deposit and withdrawal points. There, you can exchange your physical money for a digital balance and vice-versa. It is also linked to almost all banking institutions in Kenya, so you can use M-Pesa to transfer money to and from bank accounts.

With your M-Pesa balance, you can transfer any amount available to another mobile money user, make payments at most outlets and pay your bills.

The Central Bank of Kenya regulates M-Pesa, so it operates as a bank in many ways. Therefore, your money is as secure with M-Pesa as it is in a bank.

11 Ways To Use M-Pesa

• Pay for goods and services.
• Send and receive money from all over the world.
• Buy airtime.
• Pay bills like electricity and water, as well as most subscription services.
• Pay rent.
• Pay taxes directly to KRA.
• To send special cash gifts on special days like birthdays.
• As a bill manager, you can set your bills on their due date and receive reminders.
• For communal fundraising, like wedding committees, or to raise money for emergencies.
• To produce an account of income and expenditure as a business through their monthly statements.
• To access loans and savings facilities through M-Shwari, M-Pesa’s dedicated service for this function.

Lipa Na M-Pesa

Lipa na M-Pesa is the service through which you can make payments to retail outlets and service providers. There are two options under this service: “Buy Goods” and “PayBill.” 

Buy Goods

Buy Goods mainly applies to businesses that collect money from their customers regularly as part of their business. These include kiosks, restaurants, supermarkets, and small-scale service outlets like salons and barbershops. The amount collected goes into one account, similar to collecting cash and putting it into a collection box.

Buy Goods has no charge to the customers but charges the business owner 0.5% of collections up to a limit of Ksh 200. Collections under Ksh 200 are free.

Pay Bill

Pay Bill mainly applies to organizations that collect money from their clients regularly. This service has an additional “account number” entry that directs the payment to the client’s account. It works the same way as depositing money in your account at a bank. 

Pay Bill has variable charges to both the client and the organization depending on the agreement with Safaricom. 

How To Activate M-Pesa

Before activating your M-Pesa, you will need to register a phone number with Safaricom. 

Visit an M-Pesa agent, Safaricom retail center, or care desk with your mobile phone and valid identification. The identification can either be your national ID, Kenyan passport, foreign passport, Military ID, or Kenyan foreign certificate. 

Note that an agent can only register using a Kenyan ID or passport. Other forms of identification can only be registered at a Safaricom shop or care desk.

You will receive a message confirming the successful registration of your line along with a PIN. 

To activate, this is all you have to do:

• Select M-Pesa from the SIM app.
• From the menu, select Activate (or Wezesha for the Swahili language).
• Enter the PIN you received during registration.
• Set your PIN.
• Enter the ID number you used during registration.
• You will receive a message confirming successful activation along with your account balance.

M-Pesa Rates 2021

Pay bill M-Pesa charges

These charges apply when you withdraw money from an M-Pesa agent:

Below are the fees for transferring to another M-Pesa user and business-till-to-customer. These fees also apply when sending money to other Mobile Money services.

If you wish to withdraw money from an ATM, the following fees apply:

M-Pesa Tuma Popote

Tuma Popote is M-Pesa’s service for sending and receiving money from Airtel and Telkom’s mobile money platforms.

The cost to send money is exactly the same as sending it to another M-Pesa user.

You can send money using the Safaricom app or USSD code *334#.

To use USSD:

• Dial *334#
• Select ‘Send Money.’
• On the next prompt, select ‘Send to other Network.’
• Enter the mobile number
• Enter the amount to send
• Enter your PIN.

To use the Safaricom App:

• Go to M-Pesa
• Select ‘Send Money.’
• Change the top tab to ‘Other Network.’

• Enter the phone number and the Amount.
• Confirm the information is correct
• Enter your PIN to complete the transaction.

M-Pesa And Banking

M-Pesa has made banking so convenient. You don’t need an ATM to access or deposit your money anymore. Instead, you can just transfer money to and from your bank through an M-Pesa pay bill number. 

The depositing process is the same with all banks. If you’re using the SIM app, follow the following steps:

• Select the “M-Pesa” option on the first page.
• Select “Lipa na M-Pesa” on the next page
• Select “Pay Bill.”
• Select “Enter business no.” The business numbers for the most common banks are available alphabetically in the table below.
• Select “Account number.”
• Enter the account number you wish to transfer money to.
• On the next page, enter the amount and select “ok.”
• Enter your PIN.
• You’ll receive a confirmation pop-up of the destination and details of your transaction. Confirm, and you’re done.

If you’re using the Safaricom app, the process is slightly different.

• Open the app.
• Select Lipa na M-Pesa
• You’ll land on the BUY GOODS page. Change the tab at the top of the page to PAYBILL.
• On the next page, you’ll find three labeled boxes. Enter the pay bill number of your destination bank in the first box.
• Enter the account number in the second box.
• Enter the amount in the third box. Select CONTINUE.
• Select PAY after rechecking your entries.
• You’ll receive a confirmation pop-up of the destination and details of your transaction. Select PAY, and that’s it.

You should receive an SMS from M-Pesa and another from the bank confirming the payment in both cases.

These are the current Paybill numbers for the most common banks.

Using M-Pesa In 2021

How To Reverse M-Pesa

We all make mistakes. And when you make a mistake during a transaction, it can be costly. However, with M-Pesa, most mistaken transactions can be reversed easily.

If you send money to the wrong phone number, forward the M-Pesa message received to 456.

If you pay to the wrong “Buy Goods” number, call 234 and follow the voice prompts.

If you pay the wrong “Pay Bill” number, you will have to contact the receiving organization to reverse it. Try contacting them on their social media platforms via direct message.

How To Buy Airtel Airtime From M-Pesa

I know, it’s a bit weird buying airtime from a competing service provider, but it happens. To buy Airtel airtime:

• Go to Lipa na M-Pesa and select Pay Bill on either your Safaricom app or your SIM app.
• Under Pay Bill number, enter 220 220.
• Under account number, enter the Airtel phone number.
• Enter the airtime you wish to purchase.
• Enter your PIN on the next prompt.
• Confirm the details of your transaction and continue.
• You’ll receive confirmation from Safaricom and on your Airtel line.

How To Buy Telkom Airtime From M-Pesa

• Go to Lipa na M-Pesa and select Pay Bill on either your Safaricom app or your SIM app.
• Under Pay Bill number, enter 777 711 (or 439 999 – this is more dependable).
• Under account number, enter the Telkom phone number.
• Enter the airtime you wish to purchase.
• Enter your PIN on the next prompt.
• Confirm the details of your transaction and continue.
• You’ll receive confirmation from Safaricom and on your Airtel line.

How To Get An M-Pesa Statement

You can register to receive a statement from M-Pesa on the 5th of every month. To register:

• Dial *234#
• Select “M-Pesa information.”
• Select “M-Pesa statement.”
• In our case, select the “Full statement.” “Mini statement” sends your last five transactions over SMS.
• Enter your national ID number or the document you used to register your M-Pesa line with.
• Enter your email address. Enter it again on the next pop-up to confirm.
• You will get an SMS confirming that you have successfully registered to get monthly statements. You should also get a 6-month statement sent to your email.

How To Fuliza M-Pesa

Fuliza is an instant-access mobile loan service. It allows you to complete transactions when you don’t have enough money in your M-Pesa account as long as the transactions are within your limit.

Your limit is determined by your creditworthiness and how long you have been using M-Pesa. 

You register by dialing *234# and selecting Fuliza. This is also how you opt out of the service. 

Once registered, use M-Pesa as you normally would. If your funds are too low to complete the transaction, a pop-up will notify you and ask if you would like to complete the transaction using Fuliza.

You can use Fuliza on other transactions even if you already have a Fuliza balance as long as you are within your limit. 

All Fuliza transactions attract a percentage of the transaction amount as a fee and a daily fee depending on your total borrowed amount. 

When you top up your M-Pesa account, your Fuliza balance will automatically be reduced or cleared first.

How To Pay Nhif Via M-Pesa

Keeping your NHIF payments up-to-date is important, especially for the self-employed. Here’s how to make a monthly or annual NHIF payment via M-Pesa for yourself or someone else:

• Go to Lipa na M-Pesa and select Pay Bill on either your Safaricom app or your SIM app.
• Under Pay Bill number, enter 200 222.
• Under account number, enter the contributor’s ID number.
• Enter the amount you wish to contribute.
• Enter your PIN on the next prompt.
• Confirm the details of your transaction and continue.
• You’ll receive confirmation from Safaricom and NHIF on the payment.

Remember, the due date for monthly payments is the 9th.

How To Pay NHIF Penalty Via M-Pesa

If you missed a few NHIF payments and now have a penalty, there is an important difference in making a regular NHIF contribution. To pay an NHIF penalty via M-Pesa,

• Go to Lipa na M-Pesa and select Pay Bill on either your Safaricom app or your SIM app.
• Under Pay Bill number, enter 200 222.
• Under account number, enter the contributor’s ID number and add the letter y at the end—for example, 12345678y.
• Enter the penalty amount.
• Enter your PIN on the next prompt.
• Confirm the details of your transaction and continue.
• You’ll receive confirmation from Safaricom and NHIF on the payment.

How To Pay GOtv Via M-Pesa

GOTv has several subscription packages but paying for them is the same. Simply,

• Go to Lipa na M-Pesa and select Pay Bill on either your Safaricom app or your SIM app.
• Under Pay Bill number, enter 423 655.
• Under account number, enter your IUC/smartcard number.
• Enter the cost of your subscription.
• Enter your PIN on the next prompt.
• Confirm the details of your transaction and continue.
• You will get confirmation SMSs from Safaricom confirming payment and Multichoice confirming receipt on your account (smartcard number).

How To Pay Dstv Via M-Pesa

When your DSTv subscription payment is due, it’s easy to renew it using M-Pesa. Just do this:

• Go to Lipa na M-Pesa and select Pay Bill on either your Safaricom app or your SIM app.
• Under Pay Bill number, enter 444 900.
• Under account number, enter your smartcard number.
• Enter the cost of your subscription.
• Enter your PIN on the next prompt.
• Confirm the details of your transaction and continue.
• You will get confirmation SMSs from Safaricom confirming payment and DSTv confirming receipt on your account (smartcard number).

How To Buy Kenya Power Tokens Via M-Pesa

To buy Kenya Power tokens, simply follow these steps:

• Go to Lipa na M-Pesa and then Pay Bill on either your Safaricom app or your SIM app.
• For the Pay Bill number, use 888 880.
• Under account, enter your meter number.
• Enter the amount you wish to spend.
• On the next prompt, enter your PIN.
• Confirm the details on the next prompt. 
• Wait for confirmation from both Safaricom and Kenya Power. Kenya Power will respond by sending you a code to enter into your prepaid power meter.

How To Pay Kenya Power Bill Via M-Pesa

Paying for your electricity via M-Pesa is very easy, but you must be careful about the Pay Bill number, so you don’t confuse it with the prepaid one. Go to:

• Go to Lipa na M-Pesa and then Pay Bill on either your Safaricom app or your SIM app.
• For the Pay Bill number, use 888 888.
• Under account, enter your meter number.
• Enter the amount you wish to spend. It should be between Ksh 100 and Ksh 35,000.
• On the next prompt, enter your PIN.
• Confirm the details on the next prompt.
• Wait for confirmation from both Safaricom and Kenya Power.

How To Unlock M-Pesa PIN

Have you made a few too many mistakes inputting your M-Pesa PIN? No worries. Here’s what you can do instead of visiting a customer care office:

• Dial *234# from your Safaricom line
• Select “M-Pesa Information,” currently option 5
• Select “M-Pesa PIN Unlock,” currently option 7
• On the next prompt, enter your national ID number.
• You will receive a message from Safaricom guiding you on what to do next.

You can also call Safaricom Customer Care by dialing 234 and selecting from the voice options. Again, it’s best to do this on loudspeaker.

M-Pesa And PayPal

M-Pesa and PayPal have partnered with a cross-border transaction company called Thunes to enable you to deposit and withdraw money from either account. This connection is especially useful today when you can work from wherever and with whomever across the world. It makes it easier to complete transactions straight from your mobile phone.

Link PayPal To M-Pesa

You must have a PayPal account and an activated M-Pesa account. To link the two services,

• Go to PayPal’s mobile money website.
• Click on “Get Started.
• Enter your PayPal login details when the window pops up.
• Read and agree to the terms and conditions.
• Add your M-Pesa number.
• You’ll receive a verification number on the number you’ve added. Complete the online registration using this number.

How To Withdraw From PayPal To M-Pesa

To withdraw money from PayPal to your M-Pesa, follow these few steps:

• Go to PayPal’s mobile money website and log in. 
• Click on Withdraw from PayPal.
• This should direct you to a page that shows your PayPal balance. Enter the amount you would like to withdraw.
• Click on continue to withdraw.

You can only withdraw amounts greater than $1 and less than Ksh 150,000.

Sending Money From World Remit To M-Pesa

World Remit is another cross-border digital transaction service available in over 130 countries and multiple currencies. 

• Go to the World Remit website and select ‘Kenya’ from the “Choose a country to send to” drop-down list.
• Select ‘Mobile Money’ on the Kenya page as the preferred service.
• Enter the amount you want to send.
• Log in or create an account if you haven’t already.
• Select someone you’ve sent to before or add the details of a new recipient.
• Select ‘Pay online.’
• You and your recipient will receive an SMS and email notification when the transaction has been completed.

Wise (Formerly Transferwise) And M-Pesa

Wise is a technology company based in London that provides a low-cost and convenient service for transferring money worldwide.

You can transfer money from Wise directly to M-Pesa from their online platform by clicking on ‘Get Started’ once you’re registered and logged in.

To transfer money from Wise to M-Pesa, you will need the recipient’s full name, mobile provider, and mobile number. You can only send up to Ksh 150,000 per transaction and a maximum of Ksh 300,000 per day.

M-Pesa Customer Care

There are several ways to contact M-Pesa customer care. You can:

• Call 234 on your Safaricom line.
• Dial *234# on your Safaricom line. Alternatively, you can dial *100# and select M-Pesa/Reversal (currently option 1).
• From your M-Pesa app, select “Ask Zuri Get Help.” At the bottom of the page, you’ll find options to contact Zuri (Safaricom’s automatic assistant) through either Whatsapp, Messenger, or Telegram.
• Send a direct message on either Twitter or Facebook.

Frequently Asked Questions About M-Pesa

Who Invented M-Pesa?

It is not openly known who invented M-Pesa despite numerous stipulations. However, Michael Joseph, then CEO of Safaricom, grew and steered it into the juggernaut it became.

What Is The Maximum M-Pesa Deposit?

M-Pesa allows you to maintain a maximum balance of Ksh 300,000. However, the maximum amount you can transact in one go is Ksh 150,000, and you can only transact up to a maximum of Ksh 300,000 per day.

Final Thoughts

It’s difficult to remember a time when M-Pesa wasn’t available in Kenya. It is such a convenient and critical service to so many businesses both here and worldwide. It has saved on the cost and time it takes to run everyday errands like going to the bank. M-Pesa is one of those technologies that came in and made life better for everyone, and it’s a pride of Kenya to pioneer mobile money in the world.

 In this migration, wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles leave the dry plains of the Serengeti in Tanzania in search of water and pasture in Kenya’s Maasai Mara.

 It’s an exciting wildlife event, and we can’t recommend it enough. We want to prepare you for it. From when and where, to what to pack, we have every detail so your experience of the great migration in Kenya is unforgettable.

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When To See The Great Migration

The migration is wholly dependent on weather patterns, with the wildebeests usually following seasonal rains. From December to March or April, the herds are in Serengeti National Park in Southern Tanzania. In April, as the weather in South Serengeti dries up, the animals migrate and graze along the West Serengeti.

By June, they will have made their way to North Serengeti near the Kenyan border and will cross the Mara River into the Maasai Mara reserve in July. The timing of the crossing all depends on nature, and due to the change in seasons, sometimes the river crossings start earlier or later.

We recommend keeping an eye out for information online. Many of the camps and tour companies offering this safari experience will keep you updated on when the crossing might happen.

Best Time To See The Great Migration In Kenya

From July, the great migration in Kenya will have begun. In dramatic fashion, thousands of wildebeests cross over, while trying to escape lions, crocodiles, and other predators lurking on land and in water.

 You can catch the migration in the Maasai Mara all the way to October as wildebeests cross back and forth.

Depending on when it starts, July to October is the peak season for the great migration in Kenya. During this time, the chances of seeing river crossings are quite high. The herds are also usually massive during this time which adds to the magnificence.

The only downside is that the area is usually packed with tourists. Personally, I think the energy that emanates from the large crowds witnessing the event adds to the experience.

 But I also understand if you need to experience it alone or with fewer people. If that’s the case, we recommend seeing the migration in late October and early November as the animals start their trek back to the Serengeti.

 The advantage will be the quiet that comes with fewer people, but unfortunately, by this time, the herd will have thinned, and only a few will be crossing back and forth.

See The Great Migration In Tanzania

If you don’t see the great migration in Kenya, you can do so in the Serengeti in Tanzania.

As we had mentioned earlier, between December and April, the animals are in the Serengeti in South Tanzania. This period is also the calving season, so the wildebeests, zebras, and other animals are in high numbers. The Serengeti then is lush and the landscape stunning. It makes for a lovely visit.

As late April and early May roll around, the migration up North begins through the Western corridor of the Serengeti. The animals face their first huddle in their migration which is crossing the Grumeti River. Here, you can watch the wildebeests’ dramatic fight for survival against crocodiles.

By July or August, the herd will have made it to North Serengeti to cross over the Mara River into the Maasai Mara reserve. They will travel back to the Serengeti in November and December as they once again begin the trek back to South Tanzania.

The Serengeti is a year-round destination, and several camps offer this safari experience. The trick is to pick the right part of the Serengeti, depending on the time of the year.

The challenge with watching the great migration in Tanzania is that it’s not easily accessible and may not be suitable for large groups and families. On the upside, it is not a common destination therefore it is quieter compared to the great migration in Kenya.

How To See The Great Migration

So, you’ve decided you want to see the great migration in Kenya, where do you start?

First is getting to the Mara. You can choose to travel by road, in which case, there are many tours and travel companies that offer transportation depending on your needs. There are many options for 4-wheeled cars or safari vans. The roads leading towards the Mara Conservancies and the Mara Park aren’t paved and can be challenging especially during the rainy season.

If you are short on time, you can take a flight to the Mara. Flying also provides you with a breathtaking aerial view of the region. There are several domestic flights that will drop you at an airstrip nearest your accommodation.

Next up is accommodation and for this, you have the option of mobile camps or permanent lodges.

Mobile Camps

There are mobile camps set up in conservancies all over the Mara specifically during the peak migration period. These camps are usually located near migration routes. They are almost always only set up between June and October.

Thanks to their access, they offer a front-row seat to the great migration in Kenya. They are very popular; you may need to book months in advance to get a spot.

Sanctuary Maasai Mara Seasonal Camp is a small intimate camp set up at the banks of the Mara River. They are available from the end of June to the end of October and offer several safaris, including the chance to see the great migration up close. They go from $630 per person per night.

Another popular mobile camp is the Leleshwa Seasonal Camp, located in the South of the Mara reserve. It is open from June to October and closes once the herds move. They are popular for bookings with private groups of vacationers wishing to spend time with family and friends.

Porini Mara Camp is a non-seasonal safari camp set in a private conservancy -Ol Kinyei Conservancy- near the Mara Reserve. They contain only five tents and one family unit. It costs from $395 per person per night on full board. They offer several safaris and will take you to several river crossings to watch the great migration.

If you are looking for something luxurious then the Mara Bush Camp is for you. It’s a boutique luxury tented camp inside the Mara reserve. In addition to being able to see the great migration from here, they have a large hippo pool on the river next to the camp.

Other camps include Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp, Mara Intrepids Camp, Rekero Camp, and Little Governor’s Camp.

Permanent Lodges

There are plenty of permanent lodges in Mara you can stay at as you experience great migration in Kenya. Most of them stay open even after the peak migration season.

Angama Mara is a beautiful hotel overlooking the hills of the Mara Triangle escarpment. The best part is that they are only 20 minutes from the Mara, where the wildebeest river crossings occur. They also have a private airstrip if you decide to fly into the Mara. Stays start from $1,250 per person sharing.

The Fairmont Mara Safari Club is in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. Their accommodations feature luxuriously furnished tents and private decks overlooking the hippo-filled Mara River. They have safari vehicles for game drives and are located only a few minutes from the wildebeests’ river crossings.

Mara Serena Safari Lodge is also an option if you are looking for accommodation during the migration season. They are located inside the Maasai Mara reserve. They usually have packages from $650 during the migration season that includes accommodation, meals, flights, and safaris.

Mara Chui Resort is located East of Maasai Mara and offers safari adventures, among them seeing the Great Migration in Kenya.

Most tourists experience the migration on the ground, but you should try a hot air balloon safari for a different perspective. Most launch at dawn so you can catch the sunrise. It offers fantastic views of the plains and of course an unobtrusive view of the herds below.

Whether you are staying at a mobile camp or a permanent lodge, it’s essential to give yourself enough time to experience the great migration in Kenya. At the very least we recommend you set aside two days for this experience. You can even stay for up to six days, depending on your budget.

Along with watching the migration, you can see the big five on safari as well. The Maasai Mara National Park offers exquisite sunrises and sunsets over the savannah plains. Some hotels, lodges, and camps will also provide a brief history of the Maasai culture with Maasai guides during your stay.

What To Pack For Your Safari

When packing for your safari, consider the weather and comfort. For the most part, it’s important to pack minimally – especially if you intend to fly to the Mara. Most local flights have a luggage restriction of 15 Kg per person including carry-on bags.

Clothing suitable for safaris is essential. Include a wind jacket or raincoat for the cold mornings, a sweater or fleece jacket for the chilly nights, hiking or gym shoes for walking safaris, and sandals for when in the camp or lodge.

It gets sweltering during the day so pack sunscreen, sun hut, and sunglasses. We also recommend carrying insect repellant, painkillers, and vital medication. Do not forget your health cards like your yellow fever certificate.

To make sure you don’t miss a thing carry binoculars and to make sure you won’t forget a thing, carry a camera.

Finally, we could go on and on about how the great migration in Kenya is incredible. The bottom line is it’s an unforgettable experience you should try. When you do let us know in the comments below, were we right? Or were we right?

Whether you’re looking for delicious food, exciting adventures, arts, music, or relaxation – this city has it all!

Check out the list below for a small taste of things to do in Nairobi. 

This is just the start. I’ll be adding to it regularly – so bookmark the page and come back soon.

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Tourist Attractions

Nai Nami Walking Tours

Location: The CBD

Nai Nami is a social enterprise that hires and trains tour guides from the Mathare slum in Nairobi.

You’ll be taken on a 3-hour storytelling tour of downtown Nairobi, as your guides share their experiences growing up in the city and tell the stories of the people living in the city. 

Nai Nami takes you to some fantastic ‘hidden’ spots in Nairobi, before finishing up with a local lunch at the end of the tour.

Nairobi National Park

Location: Nairobi National Park

Maybe you’ve heard, Nairobi is the only city in the world that has a national park. 

Nairobi National Park is a short drive from the city centre and gives you a taste of the natural beauty and diverse wildlife that lies beyond the capital. 

On an early morning game drive, you’ll get close to plenty of lions, rhinos, and giraffes waking up, emerging from the bush, and looking for food and water. 

And you’ll be back in Nairobi for lunch.

Read More: Check out our complete guide to Nairobi National Park for all the details about visiting the park. And learn more about every national park in Kenya.

Nairobi National Museum

Location: The CBD

Don’t come to Nairobi National Museum expecting to see beautiful artifacts and cultural treasures from Kenya’s many tribes, dating back centuries into the past – they were all stolen and taken back to London. 

What you will get is a surprisingly insightful account of life under British rule in the late 19th century, the construction of the ‘lunatic express’, and the eventual struggle for independence. 

The museum also has a nice and quiet outdoor cafe if you want to eat a snack after your visit.

Read More: When you’re finished at Nairobi National Museum, check out five more amazing museums in Nairobi.

The Giraffe Centre

Location: Karen

Have you ever wanted to kiss a giraffe? 

Now’s your chance!

The Giraffe Centre is a fun way to spend a couple of hours, getting up close with the strangely majestic creatures, learning their personalities, and doing plenty of people watching.

Combine the Giraffe Centre with other Karen activities, or add it to a lazy lunch at one of the many excellent restaurants nearby. 

KICC Tower

Location: The CBD

I swear every time I visit the top of Kenyatta International Conference Centre Tower (KICC), three new skyscrapers have been added to Nairobi’s skyline. 

If you’re in downtown Nairobi, KICC is an excellent way to get a bird’s eye view of the city and take in Nairobi’s various landscapes, from the increasingly packed CBD to the lush green gardens dotted throughout the city and the rolling hills just beyond it. 

With a cool breeze blowing, you can easily spend a lot of time up here just hanging out.

Karen Blixen Museum

Location: Karen

Karen Blixen was the original Nairobi expat, and still the most (in)famous – thanks to her memoir Out of Africa. Part of the notorious Happy Valley Set, Blixen had quite the time living in Britain’s Kenya colony.

Her vast, stately home in Karen (yes, she has a whole neighbourhood named after her) has passed through many hands and is now managed by the Kenyan government. 

Today, it’s preserved as a ‘celebration’ of ye olde Colonial Kenya. There’s also a delightful garden cafe on the grounds.

For a less romantic portrayal of British rule and colonial life in Kenya, check out Histories of the Hanged: The Dirty War in Kenya and Britain’s Gulag: The Brutal End of Empire in Kenya.

David Sheldrick Elephant Sanctuary

Location: Karen

When you’re finished kissing giraffes, how about frolicking with baby elephants? 

David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is only open for an hour a day to limit crowds. So it’s worth combining with other activities in Karen and the National Park.

Nature And Gardens

Nairobi is a surprisingly green city, and in between all the madness and hustle, you can easily escape to some quieter corners and reconnect with nature.

Karura Forest 

Location: Gigiri

Karura Forest is one of the world’s biggest urban forests, offering total tranquility just 15 minutes’ drive from Westlands. 

It’s a popular spot for cycling, jogging, family trips, or just lazily strolling along 50 km of pathways, crisscrossing varied landscapes and secluded hideaways. 

Bring comfortable shoes and give yourself a few hours to take it all in. You can also get lunch at The River Cafe, one of Nairobi’s best restaurants.

Read More: Check out our complete guide to Karura Forest for all the details about visiting.

Nairobi Arboretum Gardens

Location: Kilileshwa

Wedged in between Nairobi’s central residential neighbourhoods, the Arboretum is a popular ‘getaway’ from the city – without actually leaving.

The first time I lived in Nairobi, I went to the Arboretum at least once a week to chill out, snooze, decompress, or enjoy a picnic with friends. 

One of the few parks in Nairobi that doesn’t feel under threat from overdevelopment, on weekends, the Arboretum gets quite crowded with families, church groups, gospel choirs, and the occasional dance troupe.

But there’s always a quiet patch of grass for you to lay down a blanket and read a book.

Read More: Check out our complete guide to Nairobi Arboretum for all the details about visiting.

Oloolua Nature Trail

Location: Karen

Just opposite the Giraffe Centre, you could easily miss the Oloolua Nature Trail if you’re not looking for it. 

Hidden behind a thick tree line, Oloolua doesn’t look like much from the outside. But once you enter, it opens up into a beautiful, dense forest trail, meandering through streams, waterfalls, caves, and much more.  

There’s also a picnic spot to chill out and enjoy lunch.

Food And Drink

Nairobi is home to some great restaurants and coffee shops, blending traditional African cuisine with modern food culture. 

These are some of my favourite places to eat and drink in the city.

Check Out Nairobi’s Coffee Scene

Coffee might be Kenya’s no.1 export, but until recently, Kenyans themselves weren’t interested. 

But times have changed, and Nairobi has established a healthy coffee scene, with new cafes opening in every neighborhood, offering delicious brews in beautiful settings. 

Sitting down with a cappuccino or a cold brew is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the modern, diverse, young, creative (and corporate) scenes in Nairobi.  

My favourite Cafes in Nairobi are below. 

Chekafe, Lavington: A Japanese sweet factory and ramen restaurant that also serves delicious coffees in a beautiful, quiet garden setting.

Kesh Kesh, Kilimani: Serving traditional Eritrean dishes and strong coffees

Tin Roof Cafe, Karen: Far away from the crowds in Nairobi, Tin Roof Cafe is somewhere you can just disappear for an entire lazy Sunday afternoon. 

Pallet Cafe, Lavington: Pallet Cafe hires much of its staff from Nairobi’s deaf community. So, you’ll learn to order a tasty French Press in sign language while chilling out in its beautiful garden. 

Artcaffe, various locations: A high-end chain of cafes, Artcaffe has branches all over Nairobi. Some are nicer than others, but they all offer exceptional service, comfortable settings, and good coffee.

Lava Latte, State House Rd: Since opening as a small cafe, Lava Latte has quickly grown into a full restaurant, event space, creative centre, and so much more. The atmosphere is fun but chilled, with a wide selection of coffee and food to choose from.

Read More: Check our guide to the coolest coffee shops in Nairobi.

Nairobi Nightlife Highlights

Nairobi’s nightlife is legendary throughout East Africa (and beyond). 

There’s something happening seven nights a week, 365 days a year. And not only do Kenyans love to party and dance, but they’re also incredibly friendly and welcoming to anyone who wants to join in. 

While the nightlife has taken a severe hit from Coronavirus, it looks like things are already picking back up. It won’t be long before Nairobi has its dancing shoes back on.

The Alchemist

Location: Westlands

The place to be (and be seen) most nights of the week, when people say they’re going to ‘Alchemist,’ they probably mean the small collective of bars and restaurants that make up Nairobi’s most popular nighttime hangout. 

The Alchemist is the biggest, with two levels and a big dancefloor, but there’s also a rotating cocktail bar upstairs, a bunch of food trucks, and Brioche restaurant if you’re looking for something more chilled out.

Thursday At Dagoz Artist Bar

Location: Ngong Rd.

Dagoz hasn’t been around long, but it quickly established itself as Nairobi’s best live music dive bar. 

It’s run by a group of local musicians, who’ve built a loyal following with their weekly open mic nights (held every Thursday) and focus on hosting quality music and fostering local talent.

Some Honourable Mentions

Salsa Socials, Fridays @ Artcaffe Oval: Afro-Caribbean dance is super popular in Nairobi, with small classes and events held throughout the week. Friday is the highlight when much of the community comes together to dance and catch up. 

K1 Flea Market, Sundays @ K1 Klubhouse: Now, this is where the seriously cool kids of Nairobi come to be seen. K1 Flea Market is an all-day affair, starting as a harmless shopping experience and quickly turning into a massive party that goes on late into Monday morning.

Group Activities

Board Games At Bao Box 

Bao Box will help you to rediscover fun outside technology. As one of the premier board game cafes in Nairobi, Kenya, it provides a variety of popular local indoor board games that will help you socialise. In addition to that, you can enjoy some of the delicious food served, all prepared with local ingredients.

Chaka Ranch 

An outdoor fun leisure park situated in Kiganjo, Nyeri county, just outside Nairobi. This is perfect for a family weekend getaway. Chaka Ranch offers an overwhelming variety of outdoor activities including go-kart riding, quad bike riding, paintball games, water parks, and many more. The luxury tented camp and culinary experience make it an all-rounded destination you will probably want to add to your bucket list.

Art And Culture

Nairobi Gallery

Tucked away in a quiet corner of the CBD, Nairobi Gallery is the most underrated museum in Nairobi. 

Housed in a tiny old British Colonial office, it doesn’t look like much from the outside. But once you step inside, you’ll be treated to an amazing collection of traditional and contemporary African art. Spend an hour perusing the exhibitions and then take a short walk to CJ’s Coffee House or The Collective for lunch. 

Kioko Mwtiki Art Gallery

Boasting over 25 years of art collection from across Africa, Kioko Mwtiki provides an exhibition platform for the collection of contemporary African paintings, sculptures, and literature. Therefore if you are an art enthusiast or just a curious visitor who loves history and culture then why not plan a visit to the gallery?

Zanji Art

Zanji Art is a fascinating antique art dealership and jewelry workshop run by Njee Muturi, a charismatic art collector and jewellery maker working from a small studio at Pallet Cafe. He collects and sells an incredible mix of masks, artwork, furniture, and curios from across Africa – and can tell you the stories behind them all. 

Read More: get your fill of Kenyan art and culture at the best art galleries in Nairobi.

What’s Your Favourite Thing To Do In Nairobi?

Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll add it to the list!

Yes, it may not live up to Kenya’s more famous and impressive parks like Maasai Mara and Amboseli. But what other city in the world has this kind of experience on its doorstep? 

If you want to escape into nature for a day, Nairobi National Park is the perfect place to go.

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Quick Tips

• Visit Nairobi NP early in the morning for the best wildlife viewing.
• Nairobi NP has the highest concentrations of wild rhinos in Kenya. You’re guaranteed to see many on your visit. 
• Combine Nairobi NP as a day trip with nearby attractions like David Sheldrick Elephant Sanctuary and Nairobi Giraffe Centre.
• If you don’t want to do a full game drive in the park, check out the Nairobi Safari Walk.

Nairobi National Park Fees

Entry Fees

Additional Charges

All entry fees to Nairobi NP and any additional charges will be included in your game drive tour package. 

If you visit the park with your own vehicle, you’ll have to pay extra charges.
If you stay overnight in that park at Nairobi Tented Camp, you’ l have to pay camping fees per person.

Nairobi National Park Wildlife

The park is home to a huge range of animals, both large and small. 

Over 100 mammal species live in the park, including 4 of the Big 5: lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos. All that’s missing are elephants, but you can see plenty of them at Amboseli and Massai Mara. 

You’ll also get up close with giraffes, cheetahs, zebras, wildebeests, gazelles, baboons, hogs, and so much more. 

Nairobi NP is a hugely successful rhino sanctuary, and the species has been reintroduced to the park in huge numbers. Visiting the park is your best chance to see one of the most endangered animals on the planet. 

For bird watchers, over 400 migratory and endemic bird species live in or visit the park in large numbers. 

Best Time To Visit

Nairobi NP is best visited early in the morning. 

The local wildlife will be waking up and very active as they look for food and water. Depending on the season, the park can either get really hot or rainy by the early afternoon. 

Alternatively, you can come to the park for sunset. If you’re self-driving, this is a great option, as you can find the perfect viewpoint to watch the sun go down behind the hills. 

You can visit the park all year round.

Nairobi National Park Tours

Game Drives

Plenty of tour companies in Nairobi run daily game drives in the park, usually in the early morning and late afternoon. 

The tour lasts 5 hours in a comfortable 4×4, with stops across the whole park. They’ll pick you up and drop you off at your hotel or apartment, and you’ll get an expert guide as your driver. 

You’re guaranteed plenty of close encounters with the park’s wildlife.  

Combination Tours

For the complete Nairobi tourist experience, combine a game drive in Nairobi NP with a trip to some of the city’s other popular attractions. 

A trip to Nairobi NP perfectly complements The Giraffe Centre and David Sheldrick Elephant Sanctuary. 

Self-Drive Options

If you have a 4×4, it’s possible to visit the park without a guide or driver. 

However, you’ll need experience driving on the terrain and within close distances of wild animals. Otherwise, you risk scaring the animals away, completely missing them, or getting stuck in the mud for the afternoon. 

If you’re visiting the park for the first time, join a tour or hire a private driver and guide. It’s more fun, comfortable, and convenient.

Nairobi Safari Walk

If you’re looking for an even more relaxed wildlife experience, Nairobi NP also has a little-known Safari Walk that doesn’t require entering the park, doing a game drive, and paying park entry fees. 

Tucked away in the far northwest corner of Nairobi NP, the Safari Walk is a 2.5km raised boardwalk that winds through three distinct ecosystems: wetlands, safari, and forestry. 

As you stroll along the boardwalk, you’ll get to see a wide variety of wildlife that populates Nairobi NP and all of Kenya: cheetahs, lions, hippos, monkeys, zebras, rhinos, and much more. Along the way, you’ll learn about Kenya’s diverse ecosystems, with plenty of excellent educational plaques and guides. 

If you’re spending the day in Karen and Langata, Nairobi Safari Walk is an excellent stopover on your way out of the city.

Nairobi National Park Map

Nairobi National Park Hotels

There are no hotels in Nairobi NP itself. However, you can stay at Nairobi Tented Camp, a boutique luxury campsite in the park. 

If you want to stay close to the park, there are plenty of great hotels along its border. Even better, many double as excellent airport hotels and are all close to Nairobi’s most popular tourist attractions and restaurants.

Main Gate/North Of The Park

Tamarind Tree Hotel – A boutique art hotel with a heated outdoor swimming pool. Rooms are bright and colorful, just like the bar, restaurant, and lounge areas. 10-minute drive to Nairobi NP and Wilson Airport – for flights to the coast.

Emara Hotel Ole Sereni – Right on the border of Nairobi NP, the Ole Sereni offers stunning vistas overlooking the park from your room, the infinity pool, and the restaurant. The hotel itself is a luxurious mix of contemporary and traditional safari lodge architecture.

Eka Hotel – A modern, chic hotel with great outdoor facilities, including an excellent pool. Staff are attentive and can prepare a ‘breakfast box’ if you’re leaving for the park or an early flight in the morning. 

The Panari Hotel – Overlooking Nairobi NP and close to the airport. Facilities include an indoor swimming pool and spa, fitness centre, and dining. 

Hilton Garden Inn Nairobi Airport – One of two Hilton Hotels in Nairobi, Hilton Garden Inn offers the high standards and excellent facilities you expect from the chain. The rooftop infinity pool and bar area are definitely the highlights. 

South Of The Park

What if you’re not in Nairobi and want to visit the national park but skip the city altogether? You can stay at some delightful, cozy lodges south of the park and enter from there. 

Nyati Hill Cottages – Traditional self-catering cottages with Swahili touches and private gardens. The beautifully landscaped gardens look out over Nairobi National Park and include a pool, restaurant, and breakfast area.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nairobi National Park

Is Nairobi National Park worth it?

If you’re visiting Kenya for a short holiday, you’re better off visiting one of the country’s bigger parks. 

However, do you live in Nairobi? In that case, the National Park is an excellent day out of the city – especially when combined with other tourist attractions like the giraffe centre and elephant sanctuary.

Are there lions in Nairobi?

Yes! 

Plenty of cities around the world have national parks close by. But nobody else has one just 20 minutes/7 km from the city centre.

Is Nairobi National Park safe?

Absolutely!

I’m not aware of any attacks or robberies in the park, and the animals pose no threat, so long as you stay in your vehicle and designated picnic areas and walking trails.

Which is the biggest national park in Kenya?

Tsavo is the biggest national park in Kenya. Tsavo National Park is over 22,000 km sq. and is made up of two separate national parks: Tsavo West and Tsavo East. 

Of the two, Tsavo West National Park is a much better experience, with a lot more wildlife and better, more varied scenery.

Park Contacts

Nairobi National Park is managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). For any inquiries about the park, contact KWS. 

• Phone: 020-2423423, 020-2587435
• Email: reservations@kws.go.ke, nnp@kws.go.ke
• Website: www.kws.go.ke
• Postal Address: Nairobi National Park, The Warden, P.O. Box 42076-00100, Nairobi, Kenya

I would hear guests breathlessly describe the many wonders of this mysterious, isolated, and fascinating country: the spectacular and bizarre scenery, ancient cultures, delicious food, and more.

When I finally got the chance to visit, I knew that like many countries in East Africa, traveling in Ethiopia requires lots of planning.

Good thing I spent so much time researching everything I needed to know, arrived there fully-prepped, and enjoyed a 100% stress-free holiday with zero issues whatsoever. Winning.

I arrived in Addis Ababa with 3 weeks off work and no plan. It didn’t go very well.

Looking back, I can identify seven major mistakes I made. Learn from my errors and avoid these for a stress-free trip to Ethiopia.

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1. Not Planning Ahead

For a trip I’ve been dreaming about for so long, you’d think I would have been better prepared and done more research.

Traveling in Northern Ethiopia is actually quite straight forward. Ethiopian Airlines provides cheap daily flights between most cities, bus routes are regular, and road conditions are excellent.

The main issue was that I wanted to attend Ethiopian Orthodox Christmas and Epiphany holidays, which both fall in January. So, I needed to plan around the dates of each festival.

Along with other reasons too complicated to list here, everything about my time in Ethiopia was last minute. This had four clear implications:

1. Lots of time wasted in different towns working out what to do next.
2. Spending more on accommodation and transport than necessary.
3. Not actually seeing everything I’d hoped for.
4. More stress than a holiday should ever feature.

Solution

Read lots of Ethiopia-focused travel blogs.

Bunch of Backpackers and Big World Small Pockets are the two best I found, and both are written by solo female travelers.

The best thing to do, however, is to buy a guide book.

The first time I looked at an Ethiopia travel guide was when I arrived in Addis Ababa. Having a map of Ethiopia in front of me and indexed information to flick through made a massive difference in working out my route.

While they’re expensive, the Bradt Ethiopia Guide and Lonely Planet’s Ethiopia and Djibouti edition are invaluable. Either one will do.

2. Not Buying a SIM Card at Bole International Airport

A simple screw up that cost me a whole morning sitting around in Addis Ababa. 

Ethiopia only has one phone network provider: state-owned Ethio Telecom. This is your only option for a local connection in the country.

A SIM card can be purchased when you arrive at Bole International Airport, after immigration and customs. 

Buy a SIM card at the airport, as soon as you arrive. This way, you:

1. Avoid queueing up at the Ethio Telecom store for over an hour just to get signed up. (Like I did)
2. Have a backup internet connection as soon as you arrive. Wifi in Ethiopia is unreliable – even in Addis Ababa hotels. An unlimited 4G+ data package from Ethio Telecom is more reliable and often faster.

Solution

Simple: buy an Ethio Telecom SIM card in the arrivals hall store at Bole Airport. Failing this, visit their store in Bole with your passport (in the morning, before it’s too crowded). You can also buy airtime and data along with the SIM or top-up online following the instructions below. 

At both offices, a SIM card costs 45 Ethiopian Birr (ETB). You’ll need your passport and enough cash to pay for a data package (anywhere from 300-1,500 ETB). 

NOTE: Make sure you buy a 4G+ enabled SIM card. The faster unlimited data packages don’t work on a 3G card.

3. Not Bringing ANY US Dollars

The clearest indication of how little I’d planned my trip is that I didn’t realise I’d need USD cash to pay for my biggest expenses: tour guides, hotels, trips to Danakil and Simien, etc.

There are 3 reasons for this:

1. Credit card acceptance in Ethiopia is incredibly low, and while payment in ETB is accepted, businesses much prefer dealing in USD.
2. The highest denomination of ETB is 100 – equivalent to $3.30 – while ATMs have a maximum withdrawal of 4,000 ETB at a time. So, for example, paying $350 for a 3-day Danakil Depression tour in ETB requires numerous trips to an ATM and walking around with massive stacks of cash in your pocket. This is what I had to do, over and over again.
3. Outside of Addis Ababa, ATMs often run out of cash – especially over the weekend. Depending on ETB to pay for things is risky.

Solution

To save yourself the kind of headaches I put myself through, try to withdraw or convert a healthy sum of USD before entering Ethiopia. I reckon that for a 2-3 week trip around Northern Ethiopia, $1,000 would be enough. 

4. Not Managing Expectations on Budget Tours

This was quickly the most frustrating thing about traveling in Ethiopia. There’s no way to sugarcoat it: my experience of tour guides in Ethiopia was overwhelmingly negative. 

In one month and numerous cities, they were consistently rude, disinterested, impatient, uninformative, unfriendly, bored, irresponsible, moody, fed up, and only occasionally friendly.

It’s especially jarring because I’ve worked in hospitality for many years – to a high standard. I also invested a lot emotionally into this trip, and it was not cheap. However, everyone I’ve spoken to has had similar experiences in the country. 

It’s a universal complaint. 

Why is this the case? I can guess 5 possible explanations:

1. High unemployment and lack of opportunities mean many people that otherwise wouldn’t be interested become tour guides (it does require a particular personality), because they have no better options.
2. It’s a boys club, and completely male-dominated. It often felt like companies had just hired their friends. 
3. The better guides get scooped up by more prominent tour companies. Catering to wealthy Westerners buying 2-3 week package holidays for 1,000s of dollars, these companies have much higher margins. So, they can pay better and attract top talent.
4. Inexperience and lack of education. Speaking to guides, I couldn’t work out what kind of training they’d received or qualifications they acquired for the role, beyond semi-proficient English and the ability to learn Ethiopian history (or folktales interpreted as history). 
5. There’s a massive disparity between tour agents and tour operators. Most tour agents are just fronts and link you up with any tour group that has space. Quality control and consistency seemed minimal

It’s a massive shame, because it can really spoil some incredible experiences and stands in contrast to the warm nature of most Ethiopians you meet.

Solution

Difficult to say.

After my experiences, I discussed the issue with Tedy, from Teddy Zion Tours. He was open to the criticism of the guides he’d matched me with and promised to act on my feedback. I otherwise really enjoyed dealing with Tedy and would recommend his company for the Danakil Depression, at least.

Alternatively, ask the people you meet you’ve already done tours around the country. You’ll receive more reliable recommendations of good quality tour operators whom you can contact directly.

Our community members can also recommend tour companies.

5. Including Erte Ale on Your Danakil Depression Tour

Erte Ale is portrayed as a smoldering, bubbling lake of lava atop a small volcano in the Danakil Depression – awe-inspiring and beautiful. 

And until 2017, that was apparently true. But then another volcano 4km away erupted and stole Erte Ale’s USP. The lava lake sank by 60 metres and was reduced to a few glowing cracks – and that’s on a good day. Often you’ll get here and find nothing but a barren wasteland with lots of toxic smoke. 

What isn’t advertised is everything you have to go through to see this.

Erte Ale is a 7+ hour drive away from the other nearest landmark in Danakil – a long drive in the hottest place on Earth. Worse, this is actually the most enjoyable part. Click below to read about my tour of Erte Ale and decide for yourself if its worth it.

Solution

Just book a 1 night/2 day trip to the Danakil Depression.

You’ll get to see the best parts of this amazing landscape, without spending 14 hours in a sweaty jeep. If conditions on the ground change and Erte Ale is worth all the discomfort and costs once again, I’ll update accordingly.

6. Overpaying for Tours

The general rule of thumb in Ethiopia is that the closer you get to a destination, the cheaper tours are there. 

So, if you pay for everything overseas, you’ll spend the most. If you pay in Addis Ababa, you may still be charged a premium. If you wait until you arrive at your destination (Mekele for Danakil; Gondar for Simien Mountains; Axum or Mekele for the Tigray churches), you’ll get the fairest price. 

I was aware of this and still slipped up once. I was told that a tour of Danakil booked from Axum would cost the same as doing so from Mekele. Arriving in Axum, I found out that while this was the case, I’d need to pay for the transfer to Mekele the morning of the tour, as nobody else in my tour company was traveling this route. 

This slip up added substantially to the price of my Danakil Depression tour, alongside a pointless (but pleasant) evening spent in Axum, only to return again 4 days later for Timket. 

Solution

Know the prices of tours in Ethiopia. Avoid my first mistake and plan ahead. 

7. Not Keeping Your Phone Safe

This is especially embarrassing because I’m out here telling everyone how safe East Africa is – and I was pickpocketed twice in two months. The first time, my phone was stealthily snatched during a Major Lazer concert in Nairobi. The second, during the Timket celebrations in Aksum. 

(I was even wearing the same trousers!!!!)

At Timket, my phone was taken in about 10 seconds. It went something like this: 

= Left my hotel with my phone safely under my t-shirt, in a secure travel wallet.

= Took it out for, well, reasons, and slipped it into my pocket.

= During a surge forward in the crowd, I thought, “Hmmm, should probably put my phone back in the wallet, don’t want a repeat of Major Lazer.”

= Got distracted by something.

= Put my hand in my pocket, and my phone was gone.

It can be that quick. Honestly, I wasn’t even angry. I just felt stupid.

Solution

Buy a travel wallet that fits under your shirt (avoid bum bags or fanny packs – they scream ‘clueless tourist’). If you’re putting anything valuable in your pockets, make sure they’re deep enough that a pickpocket won’t see the contents.

I’ve also decided to use a cheap, secondary phone whenever going somewhere crowded or attending big events in Africa. At least that way, it’s not a critical loss if it goes missing.  

Final Thoughts

Despite all these hiccups, traveling in Ethiopia lived up to all my expectations – and exceeded many of them. The landscapes, cultures, people, food, and otherworldliness of it all were utterly unforgettable. 

Which is why I plan to return ASAP. 

But do yourself a favour: learn from my experiences, plan ahead, and don’t make the same mistakes I did. 

Then get ready for a holiday unlike anything you’ve experienced before.

Did I Leave Something Out?

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