When compared to other African countries, Kenya is among the safest places to travel to. However, as a tourist, you can never fail to attract unwanted attention from the locals-and, often thieves and beggars. This should not discourage you from visiting this beautiful country, but it’s a tip for you to be cautious.
Kenya is a beautiful country with a lot to see and explore. From the stunning beaches to the savannah plains, Kenya has a lot to offer. However, as is true when traveling in any foreign country, there are certain things that you should watch out for.
If you want to have a good time in Kenya, you must be sensible and alert at all times. Also, learning a few words in the local language will go a long way. Here are more tips to check out before you travel to Kenya.
Don’t Just Eat Anything You Come By
When it comes to eating, you may want to be extra careful. Sometimes the quality of meat, or ingredients used in cooking meat, does not go well with first-timers. However, your stomach will adjust as time goes by. If you eat and find yourself on the other side with a stomach upset, seek medical help. Overall, just follow your gut feeling about what food looks like it was prepared well and what food looks like it may not settle properly.
Health Issues In Kenya
Before you travel to Kenya, make sure you first take all the necessary vaccines to avoid any complications. Cases of Malaria are very common; as such, talk to your doctor if there any vaccines or pills they would recommend. When you reach Kenya, be sure to stay indoors or at least cover yourself at dawn and dusk when mosquitos are most active.
Carrying your own medicine is better than buying in the local pharmacies, for apparent reasons. As a rule of thumb, it is always best to arrive prepared.
Watch Out For Other Insects Too
Forget about mosquitoes and even those tiny insects we often undermine such as acacia thorns, wasps are, in most cases, more dangerous than you might think. For that reason, have a mosquito repellant with you or put on long-sleeved clothing. If you plan to go biking, carry your repair kit, in case of the rubber bursts because of acacia thorns.
Check Out Mount Kenya
Yes, the second-highest mountain on the continent is a must-visit while in Kenya. At 17,050ft (5,199m), it is the second-highest in Africa after Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. If you plan to climb the mountain, we recommend doing your due diligence; contact your local agency and confirm which day and hours are best to visit the mountain.
Also remember to pack the right gear, ask locals or your guide for a list of essential things to go with. The last thing you want is to be stuck in a freezing space with no jacket or cover upon you.
Be Street Smart
Especially if you are a muzungu (foreigner), you will be a target for many beggars and street kids. As such, if you plan to go to the Central Business District (CBD), make sure you are accompanied by a local and be extra careful not to fall victim to theft.
Here are more safety tips to keep you safe in Kenya.
- Make a copy of your travel documents and always carry them with you
- Don’t wear flashy jewelry, especially in CBD
- Don’t carry lots of money with you
- Thieves sometimes pose as police officers, so watch out
- Have a bag under your clothes, where you keep your money
- Always move in the company of a local
Final Thought
Kenya is one of the most beautiful countries in Africa. However, it can be a curse if you travel without planning. Plan ahead, get the necessary equipment, and enjoy the time of your life.
