CLIMATE
Despite the fact that Kenya astrides the Equator, the climate
is pleasant through the year due to high altitude of most
of the area. Temperatures seldom vary from norm of about 70
degrees (F) except in the mountain areas (low fifties in the
evening) and at the beach (eighties). Coolest months are July
and August, warmest months are December to March and September
to October.
CLOTHING
Always wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Cotton fabrics
are ideal safari wear, as are Khaki shirts and trousers. Mount
Kenya Safari Club requires jackets and ties for men, evening
dress for ladies in the evening Accessories should include
a sweater, swimsuit, hat and sunglasses.
BANKING
It is strongly recommended that passengers should carry the
minimum of cash, and as much money as they wish in convertible
travellers cheques. These can be changed into Kenya shillings
by exchange bureau, most hotels and lodges. Banks throughout
the country have bureau de change.
The
shilling must be converted into hard currency before departure
as it is strictly forbidden by law to take Kenya shillings
out of the country. Major credit cards are accepted in most
hotels, restaurants and tourist shops.
COMMUNICATIONS
Kenya has an excellent communication system for both domestic
and international services. Microwave relays provide direct
dialling between most centres in the country, and a full international
STD system is in operation. There are also internal and external
telex and fax facilities.
SHOPPING
Shopping facilities are plentiful. Popular souvenirs include
Maasai beaded necklaces, bracelets, belts, various ethnic
shields and spears, hand-crafted baskets, wood carvings, soapstone
sculptures, wall hangings, tie-dye kikoys and batiks, and
semi-precious stones.
PHOTOGRAPHIC
EQUIPMENT/BINOCULARS
Film is readily available in most towns and in all hotels
and lodges, but stocks are usually small. A telephoto lens
for game photography, lens hood and ultra-violet filter are
useful. An automatic camera is ideal for snapping unexpected
game sightings. Other accessories should include spare batteries,
plastic bags for dust protection, and soft cloths for lens
cleaning.
The
sun is strong, so exposure meter settings give maximum exposure,
not the average. The best light for photography is early morning
and late afternoon. Midday vertical shadows are very deceptive.
The
advise of your driver or guide should be sought before photographing
local people.
Binoculars are invaluable for the keen game viewer. Some shops
in Kenya rent binoculars, but they are not always available.
MEDICAL
It is advisable to take anti-malaria drugs as prescribed by
your local physician, and advisable to pack a good supply
of any prescribed medicines required. They will be available
locally, but can be rather costly.
TRAVEL
DOCUMENTS
A valid passport is required for travel in Kenya. Visas can
be required either before leaving your home country, or upon
arrival at the international airport in Nairobi for most nationalities.
LOSS
AND DAMAGE
Every possible precaution is taken to safeguard your property,
but we cannot be responsible for any loss or damage to your
luggage or any personal property during your stay in East
Africa. However, we suggest that you purchase the appropriate
insurance for your belongings before leaving home.
SAFARI
LANGUAGE
Our driver guides basically speak English. Driver guides speaking
other languages may be requested at a reasonable extra cost.
