Kenya
Kenya travel guide for Americans
Americans need an eVisa (apply online) before arrival; if you have a valid US passport, the eVisa costs $78 and is valid for 90 days, change only if you lack a passport or want a longer stay.
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GuideKenya
Key facts
- Currencycheck
- Kenyan shilling (KES), about 129 per US$ in 2026
- Plugs
- Type G (UK three‑pin), 240 V 50 Hz
- Time zone
- East Africa Time, UTC+3 all year
Entry requirements for US citizens
US passport holders must obtain an electronic visa (eVisa) before travel. Apply at the official Kenya eVisa portal, pay the US$78 fee, and receive the visa by email within 2‑3 business days.
The eVisa allows a stay of up to 90 days for tourism; it can be extended in Kenya for a fee. No visa‑on‑arrival for US citizens.
Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date.
- Apply online at least 7 days before departure (check).
- Print the eVisa confirmation and carry it with your passport.
- Entry point: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) or land border crossings.
U.S. Embassy in Kenya
U.S. Embassy Nairobi, State House, Gigiri, Nairobi. Phone: +254 20 366 5000. Email: [email protected].
- Consular services: passport renewal, notarial, emergency assistance.
- For travel emergencies, contact the embassy or call 999/112 for police.
Typical travel costs (USD)
Budget estimates per day for a mid‑range trip:
Accommodation: $60‑$120 (mid‑range lodge or hotel).
Meals: $15‑$30.
Transport (safari transfers, taxis): $20‑$50.
Park fees (e.g., Masai Mara): $80‑$120 per day.
| Category | Daily cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $60–$120 |
| Meals | $15–$30 |
| Transport | $20–$50 |
| Park fees | $80–$120 |
Costs vary by season and level of luxury; budget travelers can spend less, luxury lodges cost more.
Flights from the United States
Direct flights to Nairobi are limited; most US travelers connect via European or Middle Eastern hubs (e.g., Amsterdam, Istanbul, Doha). Typical total travel time from New York to Nairobi is 15‑20 hours including layover.
- Main US departure airports: JFK, ATL, ORD, LAX.
- Airlines offering one‑stop service: KLM, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Emirates.
Electrical plugs and voltage
Kenya uses British‑style Type G plugs, 240 V, 50 Hz. US travellers should bring a Type G adapter and, if their devices are not dual‑voltage, a step‑down converter.
Tipping expectations
Guides on safari: US$10–$20 per guest per day (check with operator).
Hotel staff: US$1–$2 per bag for porters, US$2–$5 per night for housekeeping.
Restaurants: 10 % service charge is common; additional tip for excellent service.
Emergency contacts
Police, fire, ambulance: dial 999 or 112.
U.S. Embassy Nairobi (consular emergencies): +254 20 366 5000.
Questions people ask
Do Americans need a visa for Kenya?
Yes. US citizens must obtain an eVisa online before travel; the fee is US$78 and the visa is valid for 90 days.
How much does a trip to Kenya cost in USD?
A mid‑range itinerary averages $115‑$320 per day covering lodging, meals, transport and park fees; budget travelers can spend less, luxury trips cost more.
Where is the nearest United States embassy in Kenya?
The U.S. Embassy is in Nairobi, at State House, Gigiri. Phone +254 20 366 5000.
What plug type does Kenya use?
Kenya uses Type G (UK three‑pin) plugs, 240 V, 50 Hz. Bring an adapter.
Is tipping expected on a Kenyan safari?
Guides typically receive US$10–$20 per guest per day; confirm the amount with your operator.
Verify with the official source
Draft, not field-verified
- officialU.S. Department of State – Kenya Visa
- officialKenya Embassy – Contact
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- officialU.S. Department of State – Kenya Visa
- officialKenya Embassy – Contact
Ask about Kenya
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